Friday

The new bombs in London appears to have been of the same type like the previous set that caused such havoc two weeks ago. Fortunately, none of them actually detonated. Hopefully, this should mean plenty of forensics available. The world is changing. People are twitchy. The BBC are reporting that an 'asian' man was pursued by plain clothes police, thrown to the floor and shot 5 times at point blank just now. Let's just hope that it was justified.

On a more mundane note, the Ashes series have started. Must admit that as a foreigner on these shores, cricket remained a curious mystery for many years. However, a game that lasts for five days, taking daily tea breaks and sporting a rule set so complex as to eclipse even Mornington Crescent is quintessentially British, and winning the Ashes at Lords would be seen as the sporting achievement of a generation here. Perhaps the most amusing bit is the boxing-style slagging off of the opponent side in the press. The Aussies really have perfected the art of bullying, but it contrasts so brutally with the docile nature of the game. However, this time around it's the Aussies that are old and fat and England sporting a set of young, hungry players wanting badly to win. Maybe this is the year when the Ashes return to Lords' hallowed turf? So, what are the 11 ways to be out in cricket? Bowled, run-out, caught behind, LBW... answers on a post card, please.

Didn't make it outside last night, despite the fine weather. Did a brief bouldering and campussing session down the wall with Henk and Sarah, and met Bruno and Jen down there. Feeling undeservedly strong at the moment, but hurting like hell today, having not done any indoor training for yonks. Heading down Dorset way tonight for the Porter bash. Weather permitting, we'll sneak in some Portland or Swanage action tomorrow. Quite keen on some DWS, as I've never tried this. Bruno and Jen may head down that way, too, as it's likely the only dry part of the country if the forecasts hit pay dirt. They actually made it to Carreg-y-Barcud the other weekend, and dispatched the classics, including my top-of-wishlist 'Kitten Claws' and 'Sinecure'. Must get down there before leaving in October!