A trip to the 'Pictures' to see Syriana

We went to our favourite cinema Cineworld just opposite the Royal Centre and in a super spot. The film we saw was Syriana, starring and co-produced and directed by George Clooney who played the part of a veteran CIA man in the Gulf. A very convoluted story which, at times, both of us had difficulty keeping track of. But reading the reviews reassured us that we were not alone.

Full of action though and you were left wondering quite why America in general and the 'oil barons' in particular have to be so corrupt and willing to 'ride roughshod' over the rest of the world. The parts of a teenage suicide-bomber and the charismatic muslim cleric who recruits him, were so well acted, and of course, well written, that you were compelled to be sympathetic to their position. The film was very violent and merited its 15+ grading.

We did some of our favourite things. Tram from Phoenix Park to Theatre Royal - Capoccis for toasted teacake and coffee. Sandwiches, and a fruit drink from the Spar shop, naughtily consumed in the Cinema. And then tram (for which we only had to wait 1 minute) back to Phoenix Park and grocery shopping in the big Morrisons at Bulwell, and home for tea.

A very cold day again with the temperature barely rising above freezing. Surely we must eventually have a 10C+ day. Not heard from Ray since first thing this morning. I know he was due to go to the Doctors again. I hope he is OK.

Good fun emails with friends about photography and as I said, one of the best photographers I ever knew took all of his good stuff on a cheap Canon Sureshot. His pictures sold like the proverbial hot-cakes.