PASSED!

See you at Eurofurence!

...when work is over?

Why, mountain climbing of course!

Life has been busy for me lately. For weeks now, I've been under an avalanche of work. Now though, things have eased up a bit, and I should have a bit more time to myself. In fact, I've already been on a couple of trips. First of all, I spent a few days with the band in Cologne. Then, this week, myself and a few friends ventured north into the Highlands, to tackle the highest mountain in the United Kingdom, Ben Nevis.

Leaving on Wednesday morning, our train journey took eight hours. The scenery more than made up for this though. Part of our journey took in the famous West Highland Line, from Glasgow to Mallaig. This line, often just a single track winding through the Scottish mountains, is among the most scenic in Europe, from misty crags to crystal-clear lochs; and it provided the perfect taster for our time in Scotland. Arriving that afternoon in Fort William, we had plenty of time to acclimatise to the town (and the Scottish weather!). Then, on Thursday morning, we made the ascent. The ascent went well, perfect weather and even a little snow in the higher reaches. A couple of hours later, and we reached the summit, a climb from sea level to 1343 metres. Finally today, we had a little time in Fort William before embarking on the long journey home.

So, here I am, hopefully with a bit more free time. Keep an eye out for a little something from me, inspired by Bonnie Scotland. Meantime, check out this podcast from three very good friends of mine, showing every Thursday and Friday, 9pm UK time.  lkp

See you soon
Zieg

(Oh, and I've recently discovered the films of Quentin Tarantino. Simply genius.)

'When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life.' And the same goes for the famous London Fur Meets. This Saturday, I had the pleasure once again of spending a day in the Old Smoke, amidst that wonderful London Fur hospitality. With an early morning start (5.30am to be precise), my good friend  jay-lel and I made it into Town in good time. After a morning in Covent Garden, it was over to Victoria train/coach stations to meet up with . From there, a quick Tube ride took us back into the City, to join up with the London Fur Meet.

Even today, with numbers slightly below average, the meet was easily the size of some conventions. It was an excellent chance to see some well-known faces, and plenty of new ones too. And as three o'clock rolled around, the first of our giant critters bagan to emerge, and the Meet came into its own as the famous fursuit walk got underway.

From base, our menagerie meandered through the heart of the City, over the Millennium Bridge (which, despite the best efforts of a certain horse, does NOT bounce anymore!) and down to the Tate Modern to meet our amused (and bemused) general public. Photo opportunities abounded, people were entertained, and generally a touch of cheer was brought to this London weekend. And that's what this Fandom is all about.

Back at our venue, there was plenty more time to kick back and unwind after the walk, and of course to meet yet more new furs. But even as the main meet drew to a close, the day was far from over. Another Tube trip and a brief walk took us to the East End for our evening meal, curry on the famous Brick Lane! I make no secret of how much I adore Indian food, so it was an ambition fulfilled for me visiting this corner of East London, with its famous graffiti, Bengali signs and of course wall-to-wall curry houses. Our choice of restaurant was very reasonable, prompt service and delicious thalis. Needless to say, by the time we parted late that evening, a fantastic meet had been enjoyed by all. It will be a while until I can return. So roll on summer, I say!

It is interesting how different furmeets each have their own characters, reflecting different facets of the Fandom. Birmingham is an excellent meet for suiters. Meets like Durham and Newcastle cater more to the 'artistic' side. And London... well, London has everything and more! Cambridge today showed a more 'mature' side to the fandom, fewer suits but plenty of that famous furry hospitality.

Despite living my whole life just a stone's throw from this world-famous city, this was actually my first meet here. As a result, it was a chance to meet an (almost entirely) new set of furs. About ten of us came altogether, making this a smaller meet, but giving plenty of chance to meet each other.

With our contingent assembled and after introductions, it was off to Wagamama's for lunch. It was the first time I visited Wagamama's, so it made a nice change to usual restaurant fare. The restaurant is pleasant, but I may leave it a while before returning. Of course, I wasn't expecting anything like the restaurants I visited in Hong Kong; but unlike Yo Sushi, there just wasn't the excitement, the atmosphere that says "yes, this is new, this is different!" That said, the staff were attentive and the food was generous, if somewhat on the spicy side.

Afterwards, we ambled down to the river, and hired some punts for some the afternoon. This was my first attempt at punting, and of course there were a few mishaps (lost poles and the like), but generally everyone had a fantastic time. The rest of the afternoon was spent lazing by the river, drinks in paw, in the glorious spring weather.

With such a friendly group of furs, I am already looking forward to catching up once more over summer. Meanwhile, all eyes are on next weekend and the upcoming London Fur Meet. Until then.

Yes, that most esteemed of felines,  jesterdelorean, is holding one of her art raffles. Leave a comment on her journal, and you could win free art!

http://www.furaffinity.net/journal/2211880/

Closing time: Friday 1 April, 10pm UK time

---

That's it! Closed. Fur-mé, as the French furs say.

Good evening, you crazy critters! It is time for an update (especially as my last journal should have lasted 30 minutes, but was up for two weeks).

Well, I arrived back home yesterday, and I am here from now until Easter. Much as I love the Northern lands, it is definitely time for a break. Doubtless though, after a few weeks, I will be more than ready to head back. I'll be busy up until Easter, but I will still be around for a chat etc. (plus there may even be some writing forthcoming).

So, besides work, what is in store for this mountain goat over the next few weeks? Firstly, I will be spending a couple of days in Brighton. Then, on the furry side, there is the meet in Cambridge; and once again I will be bringing a little Goatyness to the London Fur Meet - 16 April.

As for meets in Newcastle, April is unfortunately out (as is June - I shall be in Cologne). But, I shall see you all again in May. Plus at any other meets I can visit, of course.

This is Ziegenbock, over and out.

Not by me, I hasten to add, but rather by the one and only  jesterdelorean.
Just leave a reply on her journal to be entered into the draw, for the chance to win free art.
But be quick: you have just thirty minutes!

http://www.furaffinity.net/journal/2149719/

---

The raffle is now closed. Naturally.

Today, something a little different: the Northern Furs held their meet in York, and I headed along. This was not my first meet in this corner of the world, but it was by far the largest (in fact, my first York meet to reach double figures). After arriving at the station, we made our way to a nearby bar. There was a respectable turnout today, with about 30 furs in attendance; a good mix of familiar faces, and plenty of new ones as well. For a typically showery February day in Yorkshire, the tone of this meet was quieter, but there was still plenty of opportunity to chill and to chat.

There was an interlude for lunch, at the local chip shop. Then, later in the day, a group of us headed into the city centre for a spot of shopping, and to visit a few more bars. All too soon, it was time for my train home. But overall, this was a very enjoyable meet.

Luckily, there isn't long until my next furry event: that's the Newcastle meet next weekend. Until then.

And... I'm back!

My computer is fixed, and I'm back online. So now is the perfect time for a little update. My birthday was a couple of days ago, so there's been plenty going on.

First of all,  neko-santariusiv and I had our joint birthday meal at Nando's. It was brilliant to see all our friends turn out for the occasion, and I'd just like to say a big 'thank you' to everyone who came. Then, the next day, I travelled right down to the London Fur Meet. Again, this was a fantastic meet (including the twilight furwalk), and an opportunity to catch up with some good friends.

My actual birthday I was quite busy, so the day was pretty low-key. I was given a couple of cards and presents, and my housemates even made a birthday cake!

So all in all, quite an eventful few days. But for the time being, it's back to work.

All the best
Zieg

Evening all. Just a quick note to say I'll be offline for about two weeks, due to computer repairs. However, I should still be able to pick up e-mails.

Until later
Zieg

Normally I don't do these 'reviews of the year'. But 2010 has been such an eventful year, it would be a disservice not to write something. Yes, 2010 is the year when this mountain goat really discovered what the Furry Fandom is all about. This time last year, if you'd told me just how great a role the Fandom would play in my life, I'd never have believed you. In those twelve months I've gone from almost no involvement, to attending well over a dozen meets, and even getting a few commissions and conbadges along the way. Not to mention all the friends I've made, and remarkable people I've met. I have met countless other furs this year, not just from Blighty, but also from around Europe and the world, from America, Switzerland, Czech Republic and Denmark to name a just a few places.

A friend of mine once said that 'the best folk are furry folk'. And you know what, he is right. Never did I expect to meet such a diverse, tolerant and amazing group of people. So, this is a 'thank-you' to everyone I've met through the Fandom, and everyone who has made this such a landmark year.

Outside the Fandom, work has kept (mostly) on track, and naturally that's my number one priority. But I've still managed to fit in a bit of travelling. Of course I must mention my unforgettable time to Malaysia, but there were also visits to Belgium, Lancashire and the beautiful principality of Wales (twice!) And of course, there were my various escapades with fencing!

Of course the year hasn't been an unbridled success, but there is no need to dwell on those points here. In fact, I feel surprisingly optimistic about the near future. Let's hope this continues. So Happy New Year to you all, and as Aleksandr Orlov would say, 'Bravely and Furrily into the Future'.

As mentioned, with tomorrow being Christmas, I'm drawing this to a close today.

Day One: Ten things you want to say to ten different people right now.
Day Two: Nine things about yourself.
Day Three: Eight ways to win your heart.
Day Four: Seven things that cross your mind a lot.
Day Five: Six things you wish you’d never done.
Day Six: Five people who mean a lot (in no order whatsoever)
Day Seven: Four turn offs.
Day Eight: Three turn ons.
Day Nine: Two smileys that describe your life right now.
Day Ten: One confession.

Final Day
Part Seven
1. Needless swearing. No, it doesn't make you clever or 'hard'. If I want a conversation, I would like a meaningful conversation, thank you.
2. Arrogance. Quite simply, I have no time for arrogant people.
3. Leather. The origin, the texture, the smell of tannin... no thanks.
4. Violence/gore for its own sake. Just why?

Part Eight
1. Exotic accents. It's perhaps surprising that this should come to me first. But it's an outward sign of a different way of life, different experiences, a guarantee of something a bit out of the ordinary.
2. Secret places. The joy of finding somewhere that few know about, and also the excitement of keeping it secret.
3. Good food. Mmm...

Part Nine
1. B-)
2.:-D

Part Ten
1. I still have a pile of books at home, that I took from my first school's library. But is it really worth returning them, after twelve years?

Well, that's it. All that's left is to wish everyone here a Happy Christmas, and all the best in 2011.

Zieg

Day One: Ten things you want to say to ten different people right now.
Day Two: Nine things about yourself.
Day Three: Eight ways to win your heart.
Day Four: Seven things that cross your mind a lot.
Day Five: Six things you wish you’d never done.
Day Six: Five people who mean a lot (in no order whatsoever)
Day Seven: Four turn offs.
Day Eight: Three turn ons.
Day Nine: Two smileys that describe your life right now.
Day Ten: One confession.

Day Six
(People or groups as appropriate)

1. My best friend
2. My aunt
3. Parents (of course)
4. My friend from Preston
5. The Fandom!

PS As it is Christmas on Saturday, and I will most likely be busy, I shall be wrapping this up tomorrow (excuse the pun).

Day One: Ten things you want to say to ten different people right now.
Day Two: Nine things about yourself.
Day Three: Eight ways to win your heart.
Day Four: Seven things that cross your mind a lot.
Day Five: Six things you wish you’d never done.
Day Six: Five people who mean a lot (in no order whatsoever)
Day Seven: Four turn offs.
Day Eight: Three turn ons.
Day Nine: Two smileys that describe your life right now.
Day Ten: One confession.

Day Five
Now, obviously I wouldn't be 'me' without certain experiences, but you never know, things might have turned out... better?

I wish I had never...

1. Wasted my time with that useless project.

2. Been to the cluib that one time

3. Gone to that party two years ago.

6. Spent £6 to see that movie.

4. Gone on that holiday three years ago.

5. Ordered the hottest curry on the menu!

Day four already? Well I never.

Day One: Ten things you want to say to ten different people right now.
Day Two: Nine things about yourself.
Day Three: Eight ways to win your heart.
Day Four: Seven things that cross your mind a lot.
Day Five: Six things you wish you’d never done.
Day Six: Five people who mean a lot (in no order whatsoever)
Day Seven: Four turn offs.
Day Eight: Three turn ons.
Day Nine: Two smileys that describe your life right now.
Day Ten: One confession.

Day Four
1. When anything animal-related is being sold: "They always have every other animal, but never any goats!"

2. "Just what is the appeal of binge drinking, anyway?"

3. "What's for lunch? Oh, cheese sandwich again."

4. "This evening would be so much better with a bottle of Fentiman's."

5. "This reminds me of that time in The Simpsons, when..."

6. "Aren't you people bored of that Stereo Love song yet?"

7. "Wolf T-shirt. I wonder if he's a furry?"

(Based on the original by... who knows?)

Day One: Ten things you want to say to ten different people right now.
Day Two: Nine things about yourself.
Day Three: Eight ways to win your heart.
Day Four: Seven things that cross your mind a lot.
Day Five: Six things you wish you’d never done.
Day Six: Five people who mean a lot (in no order whatsoever)
Day Seven: Four turn offs.
Day Eight: Three turn ons.
Day Nine: Two smileys that describe your life right now.
Day Ten: One confession.

Day Three
Ways to 'win my heart', you say? Okay, that's an interesting one. Very well, I'll have a go (and I'll try not to be too clichéd!):

1. Be a good conversationalist! Simply pick a topic: I can find something to say about almost anything.

2. It's not necessary to be furry, but at least understanding of the Fandom's ways.

3. Surprise me! Tell me something fascinating, show me something different, the more unusual the better.

4. Be patient and willing to work any issues out.

5. No need to be Brain of Britain, but at least willing for deeper conversations from time to time.

6. Appreciate culture, but also enjoy a little Simpsons or Boosh now and again

7. Have a story to tell. How did you get where you are today?

8. Show me a brilliant new comedian!

Moving on.

Day One: Ten things you want to say to ten different people right now.
Day Two: Nine things about yourself.
Day Three: Eight ways to win your heart.
Day Four: Seven things that cross your mind a lot.
Day Five: Six things you wish you’d never done.
Day Six: Five people who mean a lot (in no order whatsoever)
Day Seven: Four turn offs.
Day Eight: Three turn ons.
Day Nine: Two smileys that describe your life right now.
Day Ten: One confession.

Day Two
1. I am Suffolk, born and bred.

2. Nowadays, however, I am more likely to be found around the north east. That includes the odd Newcastle Meet or two!

3. I have been involved in the Fandom for an incredible 18 months, and have met some of the most remarkable people here. I make it to meets whenever possible; conventions I'll be attending in the future.

4. Languages fascinate me. I speak English, German, French, learning Welsh, and parts of others.

5. Following on from that: I love travelling. From long train journeys to flights to far-flung destinations, from weekends in Wales to to the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong, if I can see more of the world, I will. Seeing another way of living first hand, that's even better. And where would I like to visit next? Oh, please don't make me choose!

6. I am a keen fencer. It's a sport which I only started recently, but already it's an important part of my life.

7. I cannot choose a favourite style of music. I like them all!

8. I still watch The Simpsons, and have all the box sets. It is a remarkable social commentary on modern-day American life. Plus it's very funny!

9. Finally, I am a big Eurovision fan! I only started watching about 6 years ago, but rest assured that come May, I'll be tuning in to the annual kitschfest!

And so, I am back home for Christmas. East Anglia is pretty unremarkable at the moment. Just cold. And flat. But at least I am home. Plus, there is no more work for a few weeks! The last couple of months have been ridiculosuly hectic, but I have still been very much in touch with the Fandom. And it was good, as ever, to catch up with all of you fuzzy folk. From Newcastle to Birmingham, and from York to Cardiff, it has been superb getting to know you all, and I look forward to seeing you again in 2011.

Also I have decided, following the example of at least eight of my friends, to tackle this Ten Days challenge.

Here's how it works:
Day One: Ten things you want to say to ten different people right now.
Day Two: Nine things about yourself.
Day Three: Eight ways to win your heart.
Day Four: Seven things that cross your mind a lot.
Day Five: Six things you wish you’d never done.
Day Six: Five people who mean a lot (in no order whatsoever)
Day Seven: Four turn offs.
Day Eight: Three turn ons.
Day Nine: Two smileys that describe your life right now.
Day Ten: One confession.

Day One
1. You are an incredibly mature person. But that doesn't mean you have to be so arrogant. You need to beware of a major backlash if you push people too far.

2. There was a time when we were very close. But for too many reasons, we are drifting apart. I would like us to stay friends, but I'm searching for reasons to do so.

3. Our rapport continues to astound me. I don't know how or why, but why question it I say?

4. I just hope I can stay in this game with you.

5. I would spend every day with you if I could. You are, quite simply, an amazing person. Kind-hearted, accommodating, intelligent, full of life experience, and above all forgiving. Wonderful though it is where you live, I only wish you lived nearer to me.

6. I still struggle to understand our relationship. Yes we have many differences, but we will work our way around them.

7. You have affected my life more than anyone else. I wish I could understand your motives.

8. I am so pleased for what you have achieved. Forget the past. You can go as far as you want... and you will.

9. I could have been like you. But that was a long time ago now.

10. We need to talk more. Simple as!

Well, lots of those could apply to many different people. I do have someone in mind for each, though. Now, to write the last of my Christmas cards!

Until tomorrow.

So. I am back home now after a truly unbelievable few days. First of all it was off to Gloucester for a fencing competiton. Leaving on Thursday afternoon with a friend, admittedly things didn't start well when our train was delayed 80 minutes! Nonetheless, we arrived after a six hour journey. Travelling First Class made up for that, though (as did free food, drink and Duchy Originals shortbread).

Firday was the competition day, which went well. That wrapped up by late afternoon, and after a quick trip to the hotel it was off to Cardiff for an evening with  gogledd and  eda. Wales is a remarkable place, and I was delighted to spend time there, even just a few hours. After some drinks and live music in Cardiff city, we headed back to Gogledd's, where I discovered the Pong phenomenon (38 years too late), and was introduced to the 'classic' works of Tommy Wiseau. The last train back to Gloucester was absolutely packed (standing room only), but I still made it back to my hotel (at 1.30am)

On Saturday, the original plan was simply to head home. However, I found out about a meet taking place along my route home. And so, at the last minute, I set off once again... to the furmeet in Birmingham! Yes I could only stay a few hours, but it was definitely worth it. Plus, Gogledd and Eda had made it along! This was my first meet in Brum (and first trip to the city for quite a while). Excellent group of furs; and I was particularly impressed at how many suiters had turned out. The German Christmas Market was in town (delicious waffles!), and of course the city was busy, but overall this was a superb meet. Home after another three hours on the train, everywhere was covered in snow (*happy mountain goat!*) And even then there was more to come, as I went out with some friends for Mexican food. ¡Arriba!

And so, it's back to work. Next event is the Newcastle meet next Sunday. Until then.

We won 126-118!

Right, off for a drink with the team to celebrate.

Is hard...

...but very rewarding.

(PS New submissions on their way over the next 24 hours)
(PPS Newcastle Furs: just six days to go...)

Here we are once more. In little over one hour I shall be back in Durham, where I will be staying right up until Christmas. My last few weeks in the East have been excellent: I have made contact with old friends, seen more of the region than ever before (from Southwold to Sheringham), and of course I finally made it to the London Fur Meet, not once but twice! I look forward to seeing all you London Furs again in December/January.

However, for all you furs in the north-east, I will be seeing you for the Newcastle furmeet on 3rd October. Just eight days to go. Time to get excited.

I love train journeys. Now now, before you switch off, I'm not any kind of expert, so I shan't bore you. I do know more than my friend at least, who thought that the Mallard was built for Trans Pennine Express!

No, I'm talking about the whole world of the railways, stepping onto a train, just relaxing and watching the world drift by. It's about seeing a whole new part of the country, of the world, and a whole new way of life; as I have over the last few days visiting friends and family in the Manchester area. And it's about reflecting on new sights and experiences.

Speaking of which, I've come back with plenty of ideas for new stories! So, keep an eye out over the next few days.

Oh and Newcastle Furs: just 17 days to go. Looking forward to it.

Every third Saturday, the City of London plays host to the London Fur Meet. And today, 28th August, I went along with them for the first time.

Admittedly, it's never a good start standing by an empty train at the station for twenty minutes, only for the actual train to be on another platform, and two minutes from departing. Nevertheless I caught the train on time at Cambridge, and I was on my way to London, along with my companion for the day, former Londoner  jay-lel

First impression of the meets: big. I had been told the London meet would be large, and indeed it was impressive to have well over 100 furs in attendance (and still call this particular meet "rather small"). So, libations in hand, it was time for step two; meet the furries. Wherever I go, I am always impressed by how friendly the local furs are. And London, despite being such a large meet, was no exception. Everyone was most welcoming and easy to chat with, and special thanks to those of you who we spoke at length with.

However, the main event was yet to come. As half-past three approached, the appearance of some in the group began to change somewhat, the bar gradually turning into a menagerie of ears, tails and coloured fur. Soon, our unsuspecting little corner of London was teeming with wolves, foxes, huskies, horses, ferrets and purple cats. Yes, it was time for the highlight of the day; the famed LondonFurs fursuit walk.

The first stop on the furry tour was St Paul's Cathedral, where the famous steps were soon host to our troop of suiters, much to the amusement (and bemusement) of the many tourists on the steps. Well, it must be peculiar for a foreign tourist to come to our historic city, by admiring our world-famous landmarks and architecture, and suddenly find the area invaded by a pack of highly excitable six-foot wolves and huskies. Japan at a pinch maybe, but in the land of cricket, Pimm's and afternoon high tea? Surely not! Even a wedding that was leaving the Cathedral was subject to a bit of LondonFurs magic. Then again, surely St Paul's has a furry side to it anyway: Sir Christopher Wren? Feed the birds, tuppence a bag?

On we headed, whole open-top tour buses full of tourists staring at us as they drove past with yet more priceless antics to be had as we reached the park. Hint: dressing up as a giant wolf does NOT make it easier to catch pigeons.

Back at the bar, there were more drinks, another chance to chat and time for a final frolic with the suiters. All too soon though, it was time to leave, and to catch the Tube and train for the journey back home to East Anglia.

The UK's largest regular furmeet lived up to all expectations and more besides, and I am already looking forward to returning soon.

Ziegenbock

So, it's confirmed. This Saturday, 28th August, I will be travelling with a friend to the London Fur Meet. We will be taking the train from deepest darkest East Anglia, and spending the day revelling in the best sights and sounds that the city can offer. This will be by far the largest furry event I've attended, and I am very excited about meeting a few (hundred) new furs. It will also be my first trip to the Old Smoke for quite a while; and what better way to spend it than in the company of all you crazy critters?

Here's to a 'capital' furmeet.
Zieg