manly – James O'Brien

07/06/201923/07/2019Blogging

Swedish National Day

A few months ago, a friend and former colleague sent me a “Thankyou/Swedish Care Package”, which consisted of some famous Swedish confectionary – Daim and Bilar – along with some yellow and blue balloons, and some Swedish flags (to be used at a Eurovision Party).

As I never had or went to a Eurovision Party this year, the flags and balloons have been sitting on my desk at work, awaiting a reason to celebrate. When I mentioned to my colleague in the office next to me Swedish National Day was coming up, she suggested I should hold a “Morning Tea” to celebrate.… Read the rest “Swedish National Day”

11/05/201901/08/2023Blogging

Over The Bridge

by James O'BrienLeave a comment

Today, as we boarded the L90 bus to Collaroy, our journey took us through the federal electorates of Warringah and Mackellar. Historically, both constituencies have been considered safe seats for the Liberal party. However, this time, there seems to be a potential shift in Warringah (currently held by Tony Abbott), where the Independent candidate Zali Steggall might be a viable choice for the upcoming election. Interestingly, one of my lunch companions, a staunch lifelong supporter of the Liberal party and Tony Abbott, appears to be contemplating a change in his voting preference this time, although he hasn’t explicitly stated it.… Read the rest “Over The Bridge”

18/03/201730/07/2023Blogging

Manly Saturday

by James O'Brien1 Comment

I was running late, and so I paid a few extra dollars to catch the fast ferry. With only a few people on board, I couldn’t help but notice I was amongst a handful of middle aged nerdy blokes taking a close up look at one of the cruise ships at Sydney’s Circular Quay. “What next?”, I thought to myself. “Bird watching?”. Although the weather wasn’t perfect (it wasn’t terrible either), I enjoyed a terrific Saturday afternoon with friends, celebrating a birthday at Manly’s 16ft Skiff Club.… Read the rest “Manly Saturday”

07/05/201625/05/2016Blogging

Manly Ferry

by James O'Brien2 Comments

Is there anything as sublime as catching the Manly Ferry? It’s not too short that it feels like almost any commuter ferry. It’s not too long that you feel like you’ll never get there. I caught the ferry today for a friend’s birthday drinks. On the way back, I found a terrific spot outside, where I enjoyed the views, and enjoyed the wind on my face.