David's Journal

Spring has firmly entrenched itself in New Zealand and there are is some foreshadowing in the warm afternoons and broad blue days that summer approaches. The water is still a bit cold, as we found out gathering mussels at the whangamata estuary but the payoff was well worth it, especially the grilled chili and garlic variety. Many thanks to the Dewstow/Wright's for the hospitality.

Spent the day yesterday in Auckland at my nephew Reily's second birthday. Both him and his little bro Asher are ridiculously cute and its always a joy to hang out with them. From talking to him at the playdoh table I was able to ascertain that Reily is fond of buses.

Been playing Tomb Raider Legend which aside from some camera and control issues is excellent. Its hard not to fall in love with Lara Croft to be honest, I have to keep reminding myself that I'm not actually that much into archaeology, so it would never work. Also she's completely fictional. The next gen technology setting is gorgeous, it improves almost everything, but particularly the lighting, shadows, curves and textures. It really is a whole next level in real time rendering and its good to know that future games will be looking as good.

I haven't been watching many movies lately, largely because nothing has taken my fancy and my moviegoing buddies are mostly overseas. However, for those who haven't tried it, I suggest taking yourself to the movies sometime, it is actually a very liberating experience. Screw the stigma, the convention that a movie is a social thing only. Sometimes your own company is the most enjoyable.


Reading:

Fahrenheit 451, Ray Bradbury
Something Wicked This Way Comes, Ray Bradbury
Galapagos, Kurt Vonnegut
Grimm's Fairy Tales, Brothers Grimm