Quarterlife

English-language channels here in Switzerland are very limited--CNN, BBC World, BBC Prime, and some random MTV shows. And to top it off they don't have closed-captioning, so I can't even watch them with the aid of subtitling--I have yet to pick up German.

So I was exploring alternate forms of media and came across a web-based sitcom Quaterlife through an article on the CBC website. The Quaterlife site is some sort of social network site for people whom are creative, and such, but also contains the 36-episode series (approximately 10 minutes per episode).

I started decided to give the first episode a look. It kept me interested so I watched another. Come 2am I had watched all the episodes--you can thank the short, well linked episodes for my inability to stop watching. I recommend checking out the trailer here.

Switzerland Status

I am still here. I haven't posted as much as people would like because of the fact I haven't done too much that is exciting. Yes, I am in Switzerland. You wish you were to set the sights, so do I. Yes I had a weekend to do so. The truth is I really don't enjoy sight-seeing by myself.

Over the last few work trips that I have been on by myself, I have realized that I am not a lone-traveller. When I am done work for the day I usually sit back and read a book. It allows you to escape the reality that I am all by myself ever so far from everyone I love. Alas, with my sob-story I did still go for a walk on the weekend, so yes I have some pictures. Although they aren't very exciting or good (and I appear to have dust in my camera and I don't have any of my cleaning equipment here).

So on Saturday I went out to see what there was to see.

I drove around a little in the beautiful weather--note the lack of MPH on the instrument panel.


And I walked along the Rhein river. It isn't to exciting at this point since it is fairly near the source.


I found some sort of bunker thing. If anyone knows what this is please let me know.


And from the backside.


And it looks like the Swiss were thinking of Joy when they made these steps.

Rain versus Snow

So today marks the first real rain storm of the year. This morning was rung in with a thunder storm and heavy rains. Thankfully the weather was kind enough to ease up the rain so that my umbrella was unnecessary (though in hand).

The work-day was highlighted with a beautful blue sky and nice and warm weather. A glorious day.

My walk home was not as glorious. I escaped the morning but just a few metres into my walk home came the rain. Oh, and did it ever rain.

FYI, an umbrella is pretty well useless below your waist. From about my knees down I was soaked, shoes drenched and all. This is where snow comes into the story.

Snow is a lovely form of water in which it will nicely stack up, and even allow you to brush it aside, or pile it high. Rain on the other hand likes to flow...everywhere. And when you get dumped on, it has a tendency to create streams of water along the sidewalks and roadway which mere shoes can do nothing to save you from. Ah, poor snow I do wish you fell in the warm weather.

A Pet's Persepective

Excerpts from a Dog's Diary

8:00 am - Dog food! My favourite thing!
9:30 am - A car ride! My favourite thing!
9:40 am - A walk in the park! My favourite thing!
10:30 am - Got rubbed and petted! My favourite thing!
12:00 pm - Lunch! My favourite thing!
1:00 pm - Played in the yard! My favourite thing!
3:00 pm - Wagged my tail! My favourite thing!
5:00 pm - Milk bones! My favourite thing!
7:00 pm - Got to play ball! My favourite thing!
8:00 pm - Wow! Watched TV with the people! My favourite thing!
11:00 pm - Sleeping on the bed! My favourite thing!

Excerpts from a Cat's Diary

Day 983 of my captivity.

My captors continue to taunt me with bizarre little dangling objects. They dine lavishly on fresh meat, while the other inmates and I are fed hash or some sort of dry nuggets. Although I make my contempt for the rations perfectly clear, I nevertheless must eat something in order to keep up my strength. The only thing that keeps me going is my dream of escape. In an attempt to disgust them, I once again vomit on the carpet.

Today I decapitated a mouse and dropped its headless body at their feet. I had hoped this would strike fear into their hearts, since it clearly demonstrates what I am capable of. However, they merely made condescending comments about what a "good little hunter" I am. Bastards!

There was some sort of assembly of their accomplices tonight. I was placed in solitary confinement for the duration of the event. However, I could hear the noises and smell the food. I overheard that my confinement was due to the power of "allergies." I must learn what this means, and how to use it to my advantage.

Today I was almost successful in an attempt to assassinate one of my tormentors by weaving around his feet as he was walking. I must try this again tomorrow -- but at the top of the stairs.

I am convinced that the other prisoners here are flunkies and snitches. The dog receives special privileges. He is regularly released - and seems to be more than willing to return. He is obviously retarded. The bird has got to be an informant. I observe him communicate with the guards regularly. I am certain that he reports my every move. My captors have arranged protective custody for him in an elevated cell, so he is safe. For now...

[Edit: This wit is not my own, but that of an anonymous e-mailer]