Quick Recommendation

Went to a couple of open-mic nights last night, at Gingers Tavern and The Pogue. Really only went as I don't like staying in watching tv and it also gave me the opportunity to hang out with Jonus Minimus (Joni to everyone else). She was there supporting her friend Crystal Robinson, who goes by the name of Radio Jane when dragging her keyboard around and performing. She seriously has a fantastic voice and I thoroughly enjoyed her performances. This is surprising as I usually find open-mics and kariokes egotistic, irritating and too clickey. But anyway, check out some of her songs on her MySpace, I think you'll enjoy.

Priorities

They say the way to a man's heart is through his stomach. Well, that's a theory my mum has always used on my dad. I, on the other hand, am obsessed with sport. Just look how nothing can distract me from the football, not even the fairer sex.


Also, I have a question. Why is there always money behind a couch? I thought it was a myth but when our couch got moved today so the carpenter could move our new bathroom cabinet in, we discovered several cotton buds, a pen, a mobile phone and over $3 in change. Which I have deposited into my wallet to stay there a long, long time. Perhaps I have found a new source of income?

Goldenballs

Did anyone hear that David Beckham is moving to LA? Well I did too but haven't really commented on it yet as I'm not sure what to make of the whole situation. I still don't have a firm opinion on one of the most publicised sports stories of the past while but would like to consider some of the possibilities.

First, I recall an interview I watched with Don Garber, the commisioner of Major League Soccer. He seems very chuffed that Sir David (as he will be soon enough) is moving to the States. However, I don't really consider his opinions to be the most reliable as he pronounces Pele 'Pay-Lay' and doesn't consider Beckham's move as similar to that of the world's most famous player when he joined the New York Cosmos as Pele moved in the twilight of his career, while Beckham is still at his peak. Really? So why can't he get into the Real Madrid and England teams?

Second, what about the money? Is the reported £128 million the reason for going? Personally I believe not so much. Sure, he wouldn't have gone for nothing even though his current finances are ok and that figures such as the ones that have been quoted must be pretty hard to turn away from. But I genuinely believe Beckham sees the challenge of growing 'soccer' in the US as his motive. Some may say that is extremely arrogant, seeing yourself as the one person who can interest 300 million idiots, sorry people, in something they're not really interested in. Apparently. But it is a challenge certainly and if he can pull it off, would be a remarkable achievement. I definately enjoy a challenge and completely support his goal of publicising football over there. If that is his aim. Also I do believe Beckham when he describes the pride and enjoyment he experiences when coaching kids at his academies. This is another factor behind the move and a worthy project if successful.

So in my opinion, it appears David Beckham is the big winner from his move to LA. Assuming he continues to play well on the pitch, which his other interests depend on. Will he? Can he? Don't know. Probably, as the standard of the MLS is not highly respected and Beckham has played at the highest level for over ten years now. Played but not played well recently, which increased the public frustration towards his publicity and alternative interests. The possibility of Beckham's American dream echoing the last two years of his England career is a real one according to me. Which is why I am staggered he got a five year deal. Five years at 32! (which he will be when he joins) Surprising if you consider Manchester United won't offer more that one year contracts to their players aged over 30. Even more reason to believe Beckham is the biggest winner in this deal.

But he won't be the only one. Yeah, LA Galaxy will get their moneys worth (seeing as they only contribute a fraction to Beckham's contract) and sell more seats/shirts/posters and a lot more publicity. Fine. The league, the MLS? Hmm, really don't know and that is where my interest in this topic is highest. I really don't know if the Americans will take to football any more. It's possible but will take time if so. Maybe. But probably not. I will be surprised, however, if the standard of the MLS increases significantly. It could turn into a retirement home with each team allowed a 'marquee' player each, who will be past their best, not give a monkey's and therefore the intensity of the competition will not rise. Blunt, but that's what I think is the most likely outcome. If footballers of the 21st century need extra millions. So let's sit back and watch. I for one think things may get interesting.

New Years

Here are some photos from my excursions back in the homeland. It is traditional to bring in the new year with a quiet evening in with games n booze rather than pubbing it clubbing it with the expenses and loudness and business of cardiff/barry. Which is what each of us prefer, although somehow Niall keeps getting invited. As I like to constantly remind you, he is a twat, so we thought it best to tie him up and just leave him in a corner.


Oh yeah, Sarah thought it would be best if Catrin and Niall swapped clothes as well. Worked out well.


What else happened? Well look what happened to Lois and Catrin:



I know what was to blame there and it wasn't the crazy dealer.



But maybe a little from Column A and a little from Column B. Probably.

Walking up a hill and coming back down a mountain

Well happy new year one and all!

As is becoming the norm when I post, I will begin by apologising for not updating you in a while. At least I have a genuine excuse this time in that I was so busy at home I barely had five minutes to myself. Actually, that's not entirely true as I could have created at least a hundred posts during the time I'd space out when Niall was talking about himself - about four days solid.

I think I'll give more detail about specific events over the festive period when I get the photos off Catrin as they'll explain a lot. However, I will say my break was fantastic, although a little sad at times, as I was constantly reminded how wonderful friends, family and Wales are. I'll try not to neglect them as much this year.

But what I can tell you about is the hike Catrin, Sarah, Niall and myself embarked upon earlier this week. Catrin conveniently lives by Garth Mountain, featured in some Hugh Grant film, and climbing it was a good excuse to burn off at least six of the ten million calories that were added over Christmas.



Some parts were a little steep though for some people.

But as you can see, the views are quite spectacular, showing Wales in its true light.




No comments about the wellies please.

Now an interesting fact about Garth Mountain is that it is an artificial mountain. Yeah, a fake mountain. How is that you cry? Well, to be classed as a mountain, Garth needs to be over 1000 feet high. And it is only 998 feet high. So as you reach the peak, you will notice a nipple on top of Garth's breast.


Yeah, 'they' (I don't know who 'they' are) decided to put a three foot high stone thingy on top of Garth so they could call it a mountain. Wow, there are some geniuses in Wales (should that be Geni as in Peni?). Anyway, doesn't matter. Oh, but if you were wondering what the breast that the nipple is attached to actually is, it is one of three burial sites up on the mountain. Spooky. But don't go digging them up - you could be fined and imprisoned.



So, to conclude, I found our little excursion highly satisfying and enthralling. No, it wasn't in the same league as Doctah J's death-defying adventures but it was a step in the right direction. Though this was the closest I could get to the sheep before they ran away - clearly they have some kind of fear of me?!


And I mustn't forget, Niall fell down the hill. I laughed. He's a twat.