Today I went to Paddington.
I went, in the main, because this was one of the places I thought I might live in Brisbane when I moved here. It was on a list of places that people recommended, so – though I’m happily settled in West End for the time being, I wanted to check it out.
I also went to recover somewhat from the evening before. Although I’m crap with names, I had a really lovely time at Words or Whatever, and was really impressed with the diversity and quality of the performances – features and open mic alike. In the main, however, I was impressed by the very friendly vibe. Hardly anyone sitting looking morose and cliquey. Just friendly and open.
For some reason, I was so incredibly nervous that my leg was shaking so badly that I actually feared I had developed MS. I hadn’t, it was just new and unfamiliar and the other readers were good and different to me and that always makes me worry that I’ll be bad and different to them.
The day seemed light and fine, so I hopped on the bike and off I went.
There were a couple of sweet little surprises on the road there (I nearly got hit by rude cars) such as this crazy little painted house, some sweet mural action and a bit of floral, nature action.
So far, Paddington seems nice: not too far away although not so fascinating I’m moving here immediately. There’s a long strip of shops and – if I liked shopping more – I might find it rather wonderful. I located the bar called The Lark, which seemed promising, but not yet Long Play. Call me crazy, but is there a nice Low Key wine bar in Brisbane, or only nice but a bit I’m On a First Date wine bars?
Mostly it seemed to be about the antique market, which was nice, although a great number of couple people were there. To be honest, it stressed me out. Again, I wish I liked shopping.
To recover, I went and had a massage. But it was rapey and horrible and so deeply inept, I can only say to you all here and now – do not get a massage here. Ever.
In reality though, despite the horrible massage experience, I’d have to say Paddington is really quite a nice place. Nothing that much to complain about. Except these hills. Bloody glad I don’t live here now.
eleanor j jackson 
Hello, it’s Nick here, I met you at black star the other night. I have been reading your blogs and poetry and I love the way you write! I hope you are enjoying brisbane apart from the crappy masage.
It was a total pleasure to meet you! And I loved seeing you perform at the Slam… And I really am enjoying Brisbane – never again that massage – ew.
thank you for reading.. and so lovely to meet you, so lovely… I’m looking forward to seeing you again soon!
Elanor,
I wanted to introduce myself at Black Star but you were talking to others. I was completely blown away by your set and wanted to say welcome to Brisbane you have raised the bar for the rest of us. I look forward to seeing much more of your masterful poetry it was truly inspired and inspiring. I’m just now checking out your blog and I see a picture of May’s house (the citrus yellow one) she was my neighbour for a long time (we lived next door in Chapel Street) there’s a beautiful church across the road that still holds a full Latin mass every Sunday, what a great slice of Paddington it’s lovely to see it throught your lense. How are you settling in to Brisbane? When are you next performing? Please, keep me posted.
Cheers
Trudie
Trudie, you’re way to kind… thanks so much for checking out my blog… and I hope to see you in person! are you performing anywhere soon?
Just re-read the last couple of sentences about massage and wine bars will keep you posted with better options. Are you car or public transport based? I’m thinking Newfarm and the Valley might be better options. T
oh, and I’d love a good wine bar recommended… I think Lark looked nice, but maybe a bit too “nice”, and not low key enough just to wander down to drink alone (sadly, drinking alone a bit right now)…