Now, like every self respecting person out there, two questions are probably going through your mind. No, not “did you shave today while driving 70 km/h down a busy road again?”, or “what size are your feet are you so I can find some concrete shoes to fit you?”, but rather:

1. What did your infinitely loving friends and family get you for Christmas?

2. What are your resolutions for this brand fine spanking new year?

Why, good questions, my fine but ever-so-inquisitive friend. You shall be rewarded for your curiosity.

I didn’t really get a Christmas present this year. But before you start writing those blank cheques and engaging in pity for me - I got a pre-Christmas present. You see, I’m really into this thing called digital photography, where everyone but the filthy rich starts off with compact cameras while they save up for a more expensive Digital SLR system. Well this year was the year I decided that enough saving has been done, and it was time to take the plunge and get a Nikon D50.

To the uneducated, it’s a digital single lens reflex system, with a 6 megapixel sensor, and interchangable lenses so the manufacturers can convince you to part with more of your money in exchange for better and more expensive lenses. The kit I bought came with the standard, 18-55mm zoom lens, 55-200mm telephoto zoom and a free SB-600 flashgun via rebate. I’m extremely ecstatic about it - it takes pictures well, the image quality is awesome, and it handles like a dream. I’m also ecstatic about not having any birthday, Christmas or anniversary presents for the next 10 years in lieu of the hefty price tag.

Ok, I lied a bit when I say that I didn’t receive any Christmas presents - from my generous friends and family I also got a novelty thermometer (I now know how hot it is!!), a t-shirt (when it’s really hot), a business shirt (when it’s not so hot), a $50 voucher (hot!!) and some chocolates (hot!?).

In terms of new year’s resolutions, that’s a harder question to answer, and will require some thought on my part. Ok, I’m ready. In no particular order, I will strive to achieve the following in 2006:

1. Be closer to God
2. Improve my relationships with friends and family
3. Be friendlier to people, and really try to get to know them and allow them to get to know me
4. Stop procrastinating
5. Eat healtier and exercise more

I hope you will hold me accountable to these - the next time you see me, please tell me to “stop eating that bacon and egg McMuffin, and hurry up and talk to me about your walk with God”. For those that missed it, that was a failed attempt at incorporating all 5 resolutions in a single sentence in a humourous way.

Anyway, I’m off to grab some sushi for lunch and take over the world. Ciao!