New Premises.

Coincidentally, it's been a month since I last did an actual blog post on here. But now I have a new blog over there.

Where?

Here!

Moving House.

Miss Emma Jude is soon to be moving over to a new home on the www...

Watch this space!

The Big Day Finally Came.

After months and months of going on and aaaaan about needing a new car, I finally have a new car. Joyousness!

Three weeks ago I went to Cape City Volkswagen and started dotting the i's and crossing the t's... Today, I took my first drive.

I sadly had a terrible experience with Nedbank (my bank, I might add) after they first took two weeks to give me any indication of whether or not they would be willing to finance me, only to have them come back with an interest rate of 15%. At first I didn't know any better but after asking around, I learnt quickly that they were, quite frankly, taking the piss out of me. I must remember to tell them to NEVER AGAIN send me a letter in the post telling me about how much they want to loan me money. This happens almost monthly. For the first time in my fifteen years of banking with them, I wanted to close my account and move elsewhere. The only reason I won't is because of the admin, not because of any loyalty as that has been lost. A very poor taste has been left in my mouth. I had great service from a few select staff members but the whole punching some numbers into a program to determine how much they want to invest in me so I can invest in myself is nothing short of robotic and void of genuine customer care. I suppose all the banks are the same. Shame on you all then.

But back to the good stuff. I managed to secure financing through my father (I would have preferred to do it entirely on my own) but together we, excuse my French, f**ked the system and now I have realistic repayments and he wins in the interest he will earn on the loan. I have been very fortunate.

I must also add, especially for any of you who are or will ever look into getting a new car, Cape City Volkswagen is an absolute pleasure to do business with and they proved to be a great companion in going through the experience of buying my first car. I serviced my last car with them from the moment I moved to Cape Town and will gladly continue to do so. Emile Opperman, my "dealer", ha ha, for lack of a better word went out of his way to help me and the experience exceeded expectation. Bravo VW!

Now onto the car itself... A brand spanking new silver Polo Vivo 1.6 is my NBF. Little details like the Bluetooth radio are absolute winners. I have been driving around, without sound for almost three years and now I can have audio pleasure in seconds, from the convenience of my iPhone. And I can do some far safer hands-free calling while driving. Central locking. Who knew it could be such a simple pleasure?! Electric windows. How have I been managing?! Alloy wheels. But of course! I am very happy with this new purchase and am sure to experience many pleasurable driving experiences in my new future.

So, a very big thank you to Volkswagen for hooking me in once more!

Now I must bid a final farewell to my Ex ride. We had 9 years together and 100 000 kilometres. I learnt to drive in her. I also took my first drive as a licensed driver with her. She brought me to Cape Town when I finished school. She accompanied me on many a soul searching drive, many a road trip rendezvous (romantic or otherwise), helped me acquire many a parking fine and some speeding ones too. Her sound system was purchased with some of my inheritance from my late grandmother so that's pretty special - I still remember the first CD I ever played, a Club Anthems album from 2002. She broke down on one too many an occasion and although she pissed me off at times, I always felt great affection towards her. She was "born" in Durban, then made into an NTB690GP before settling down with a CA539654, just like me. Over time her ability to produce ridiculously good sound gave way but with this came a lot of fun memories. I will never forget the humour that was experienced on a Peninsula drive when my friend Blane was sitting in the backseat and he continually had to bang the back of his seat so that Anthony Kiedis would stop muffling his words. I also remember going to a 30th birthday in Elgin on a freezing Winter's night and she kept breaking down in every dip. It was hysterically funny, although less so at the time. My fondest memory is perhaps a late night drive back in April 2003, up to the Cableway, to look back out over my new city with 1979 by The Smashing Pumpkins as a perfect backing track.

Oh, if those seats could talk, the stories they would tell...

Goodbye great little car!

More on Songs About Love.

Interactive blogging is the most fun. Without a doubt. Last night, doing a post on "Songs About Love" was so enjoyable as the post ended up being by a whole lot of people. Half the reason why I actually started this blog was to invoke thought and hopefully even debate. But that can be drab, yes, if I'm banging on about philosophy and relationships and dreary clichéd quotes from ancient authors. We humans can be too serious at the best of times. Well some of us, me being one of them. However, the older I get, the more I am able to really tune into the fact that life is way too short for so much seriousness.

Anyway, the results from the "Songs About Love" question were too cool. It shows you just how differently we all view the concept or feeling or experience of love. For some it is stained with pain, for others it's innocent and beautiful, it is oft times viewed as an abstract concept, others feel it in their bones. But no matter which way you look at it or how you are taking it in or giving it out at any given time, every single one of us has a song that lends itself to explaining what love means to us.

I have a few more picks I'd like to share here...

Soul Meets Body - Death Cab For Cutie

Got My Mind Set On You - George Harrison

Somebody to Love - Queen

Is This Love - Bob Marley

Better Together - Jack Johnson

Can't Stop - Red Hot Chili Peppers

Hey Jude - The Beatles

Fix You - Coldplay

City Of Blinding Lights - U2

Wish You Were Here - Pink Floyd

And that is all. For now...

Songs About Love.

I put out a question to Facebook and Twitter. What, in your opinion, is the greatest love song ever made? I requested that people not respond with ballads unless they really mean it and instead base the answer on their personal preference. This is the selection that came back to me. A real cross section, a wealth of variety, all in the name of L-O-V-E.

So, if I was a radio DJ, this would be tonights late night love session...

"This is Miss Emma Jude signing off with a whole lot of lurve..."

Tessa B's pick:

Lorien loves:

Richard's selection:

West loves:

Dom says:

Skenie's pick:

Sascha says:

DJ Lapse votes for:

Fay's favourite:

Stephan says:

Guy's take:

Gina's choice:

Robin says:

Angie's song:

Yvette's selection:

Shaymen's choice:

Wedding Concept's recommends:

Alvhin's pick:

Kim loves:

And last but certainly not least, here is mine. It's all in the unparalleled lyrics.

The King's Speech.

It takes leadership to confront a nation's fear.

It takes friendship to conquer your own.

The King's Speech

I finally went to watch The King's Speech last night and was completely impressed. Normally when I hear a movie has won or even been nominated for seven million awards, I'm skeptical as I assume it's probably made for mass consumption (think Avatar) and won't really strike a cord in me. Yes, I tend to be a "too-cool-for-school" cynic at the best of times. Sorry about that!

But back to the topic at hand: The King's Speech.

For those of you who don't know, the story goes like this (taken from IMDB as I couldn't say it any better myself):

Tells the story of the man who became King George VI, the father of Queen Elizabeth II. After his brother abdicates, George ('Bertie') reluctantly assumes the throne. Plagued by a dreaded stammer and considered unfit to be king, Bertie engages the help of an unorthodox speech therapist named Lionel Logue. Through a set of unexpected techniques, and as a result of an unlikely friendship, Bertie is able to find his voice and boldly lead the country through war.

I was so impressed with the film, from start to finish. Cinematography perfection. It was magnificently shot, there was perfect precision in the sculpting of a star cast and I don't have a bad word to say about it. The story is touching and beautiful and it automatically held more relevance for me when my mother told me that the story is one belonging to the current Queen's father. I have to be told these things, shocking I know.

Helena Bohman Carter was so enjoyable to watch. I'm used to seeing her in all her weird and wonderful roles but she played Queen Elizabeth with poise and the perfect amount of emotion and I loved her character. So too did I love all the leading characters. Both King George VI (Colin Firth) and Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush) seriously impressed me with their portrayal of character, their comedic timing and their handling of the sensitivity of the story itself.

I am always more impressed by portrayals of real life historical periods or events in film, as History is a great love of mine. Not that I'm too clued up on the details when it comes to the History of the world, but the way in which that time in History was delivered to me will forever remain in my mind. The story is just so touching and you cannot help but have great respect for the real people who were behind the story. Those who actually went through those ordeals. It's also nice to see the human side to royalty - Yes, I know it has a Hollywood treatment but I loved how all the actors played their parts. I think it is sometimes forgotten that we are all just equally human at the end of the day. I know I forget sometimes. Especially when I feel a great distaste towards some people, most of the time. Ha ha, kidding. Sort of.

I wonder how the Queen felt watching that film?

I shall be sure to get the DVD for my non-existant collection, after watching it hopefully one more time at the cinema before it goes off air.

A very big recommendation to all who are yet to see it!

Fancy A Massage?

Elements on Kloof is running a lil' competition at the moment. It's designed for pairs and it is shockingly simple to enter yourself into the draw. "Like" them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter, then send a little tweet or post on their wall, telling them why you want to experience Elements on Kloof together and into the draw ye shall go. Get your "other half" to enter as well, if you fancy doubling up on your chances of winning.

The Prize: A 30 minute back, neck and Indian head massage for TWO!

Spread the word...

Massimo's.

I just did a little review for Massimo's in Hout Bay on the Eat Out website this evening. Here she is and then some...

After seeing the name Massimo's come up on Twitter time and time again over the past few weeks, I decided that I just had to try the place out. I had not been before but as a lover of Pizza and seeing by way of their online menu that this is what they focus on, I knew I'd be in for a treat. I went last night and took 19 other family members (most from out of town) with me. We were a large table and that is not necessarily fun for a restaurant that was full to the brim but the Massimo's team took care of our every desire and served up tens of incredible pizzas in what felt like record timing. I love the simplicity of their methods and overall ambiance of the place. Paired with impeccable service, Massimo's has quickly become a place I want to keep going back to. We also enjoyed several bottles of red wine and some great cappuccinos at the end. A really wonderful restaurant!

And I mean every word of it. We had a really great time. As a rather big table, I took on the role of group leader and selected 14 pizzas off the menu. They were then delivered to the table as the restaurant was able to deliver them, but literally from fifteen minutes in, to the time we were all full, the pizza just kept on coming and everyone got to try at least one slice of each variant so all taste buds were satisfied - meat eaters, fishies, veggies and those who weren't so hungry and just wanted a little nibble. Even my cousin's 5 year old was well fed.

The most easy-drinking red wine of choice for the evening was Massimo’s vino della casa rosso (house red by Boer & Brit) and at R72 an absolute steal. They also happen to whip up a great cappuccino.

The only thing I'm disappointed in was not getting to try the Cioccolata (pizza base with chocolate spread) 72 - But now I have something to look forward to on my next visit.

My personal favourites were...

The good ol' Margherita (tomato, mozzarella, fresh basil, virgin olive oil) 54
My best, the sublime Pancetta (tomato, mozzarella, pancetta bacon, pan-fried mushrooms) 84
So much flavour can be found in a Zucca (tomato, feta cheese, roasted butternut, chili & garlic) 58

I think you could call that a pretty successful restaurant experience!

The details you need to know...

Follow Massimo's on Twitter @pizzaclub_hb. They are located at Oakhurst Farm Park on Main Road in Hout Bay. Look out for the SPAR as a point of reference. Their website is located at http://www.pizzaclub.co.za/. Open from Wednesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner. Last but ceratinly not least, you can give them a call on 073 390 1373.

Aaaaand GO!

Language.

I was sent this totally inspiring video today, by way of my favourite local photographer Andrew Brauteseth. It is a commerical for a language centre and very, very cool.

I did a little fishing and found this one too. When I'm not dreaming of returning to Paris, I'm dreaming of visiting Barcelona...

Miss Emma Jude Dot Com.

I'm a Dot Com, y'all. I can't believe I haven't written about this here yet but tis true. A few weekends ago, I decided to put Tank to the test and I built myself a website. It's a fleshed out business card, so to speak, and therefore nothing too fancy but gives a pretty good indication of all things Emma, when it comes to the business side of my life.

I now also know that I can build basic sites for people so if you need a basic site, holler.

Please do have a little look-see and let me know what you think, if you haven't visited it already.

Merci beaucoup!

The Royal Wedding.

29 April 2011.

A whole lot of you were loving the coming of the Royal Wedding and all the festivities that were sure to be around it. The rest of you were supposedly above it or beyond it or going to do your best to scoot around it. Party poopers! Well, in truth, I am not normally one for these kinds of things but once I started watching, I just couldn't stop. I've now even watched some repeats on Sky News.

Some thoughts on The Royal Wedding...

Catherine looked magnificent. She is a very pretty girl and her choice of dress was completely inspired. I wanted to feel sorry for her and the serious public display she was having to put on but that girl was fortunate enough to experience a real life princess wedding. It's not everyone's cup 'o tea but if you are in love (supposing she is) AND you can have the most prestigious of weddings in all the world, you're one lucky biatch.

Lovely, lovely lace.

The stuff wedding dress dreams are made of.

Wills is a little less pretty but he seems like he may just be a sweet guy. I hope they lighten up a little bit though. I know they're on display and meant to set a real example and all but a little sense of humour would be swell.

An equally magnificent ensemble for the reception.

Cinched to form the tiniest waist, draped to form the perfect skirt.

Love the fur contrast too. Great little jacket.

Very oil-painting-esque.

The whole fam dam!

One member of the family who will now be in the public eye far more.

Pretty 'lil Pippa. I wonder if Prince Harry has ever asked himself "what if?" On that note, does Chelsea Davy dream of a wedding day like Kate had? What are the chances? Sorry Chels but you don't strike me as Princess material.

What a cake?!

A very serious cake.

All in all, the wedding was fascinating to watch. The whole thing is kind of surreal to me and not something I can fully wrap my head around. Their world is so foreign, so, well, um, royal.

For more info and the source of these images, go here.

Golden.

Oh Great Flaw.

Dear Miss Jackson,

This year we have renewed your (British Airways) Executive Club membership at the Blue tier level as the number of Tier points you earned during the last twelve months was lower than the 600 Tier Points you need to maintain your Silver Status...

Blah, blah, blah.

...Although the Blue tier does not include access to Executive Club Lounges...

YOU'RE FIRED!

All those tweets. All those blog posts. All those proud moments of walking past all the plebs and taking the lift up to airport heaven. All those early morning croissants and cappuccinos with hearts in the foam. All the Johnnie Walker Black Labels and glasses of wine while waiting for late flights back home. The coconut squares!!!!!!!!!

British Airways just broke up with me.

I feel...

The letter ends...

...I hope you enjoy the benefits of your Executive Club membership.

What benefits???

British Airways, I hate you. Well, love you hate you. Do you not know who I think I am?

A Cat Show.

Yesterday, Cape Town Girl and I ventured on down to Cape Town High School for a "Cat Show". Yes, a cat show. While I understand the exposure for brands like Hill's and appreciate the fund raising ability for causes like The Emma Animal Rescue Society, it is all rather cruel. A room full of miserable felines all wanting to be no where more than in the comfort of the own homes was the order of the day. Cruelty aside, there were some magnificent cats on "show". Here is a pick of some of those I enjoyed most...

Do it look like I is havin' the funs?

Grrrr.

Mrrrr.

Brrrr.

What choo lookin' at?

Frrrr.

CTG was contemplating a kidnapping.

Of this handsome fella...

This dude was a real beauty. And so friendly.

The cat owners take this occasion very seriously.

Way too seriously. This years theme was "Back In Time" so some cat owners created displays on the top of their cages. Not sure how it ties back to the event at hand but hey?!

Malheureux little mookoo.

I is gonna get out of hea. Somehow.

Mmmmm. Drunken kitteh.

Don you come any closa!

I am really crazy about Abyssinian kits.

Knackered cats.

Lots of knackered cats.

This looks just like my cat Jasmine, who lives with my parents in Joburg. She was my first kitteh cat. Such a pretty lil' thing!

A catty with its toy catty.

This very unique looking, handsome dude was a real hisser.

This monken was in the top selection. Guess he wasn't so thrilled about the whole ordeal. Totally distressed in fact.

The prettiest little kitteh in all the land.

Alien cat.

Guess how much of the funs I is havin'?

This is not a safe place. Scaredy cat.

Over 60 creatures were on display for the day.