January

January went by in a blur, in that way that January has. February makes me hopeful for Spring, but it's not to be just yet - the snow's come down in a big way, all over the UK, today.

This weekend we went to my Aunt's 80th birthday party. As may be a hazard of an 80th party half the guests napped after lunch:

The party was good fun, so long as Raine and I remembered to show no physical affection, and not mention the wedding! To be fair, though, people seem to be more at ease with us these days. My Grandma bent over backwards to ensure we were at the party (we've avoided a few family events, thinking it might be appreciated if we faded away into the background).

I'm in the middle of applying for my PhD, whilst also juggling my MA work. My dissertation is well underway, and my interviews will be starting this month. I'm excited about it. My new course: Religion and Social Theory is really enjoyable. I had fun writing my first Masters essay, on the Mormon reaction to the 'Proposition 8' vote in California.

Raine and I have booked a week away in Newquay at Easter. We cannot wait. There'll be a lot of surfing. Paul will be joining us for a few days. It's going to be epic!

We're saving for the holiday, but we've managed to fit in some low budget fun! We had a voucher for West Coast in Cleveleys. We found a new drink while we were there: Agwa.

It's made from the leaves of Coco plants, and infused with Lime, it gives you an oxygen kick. It's pretty interesting, and came mixed with energy drinks in very funky glasses!

We've seen a few good films. I strongly recommend Revolutionary Road - in terms of writing and direction it's one of the best films I've ever seen! Slumdog Millionaire was also excellent.