Where is Darran?

With the help of Andy Nguyen in Austin, I completed the first mobile lifecast test. The results indicate the current equipment and method is feasible, but there is still room for improvement. I used Skype communications with Andy to verify the video was streaming properly. Skype was much more real-time than the video stream. The mobile broadband service, iBurst, is able to stay connected on the move and the laptop was able to maintain the stream for around 5 minutes of walking around the neighborhood. I am still troubleshooting how to attach the webcam to my person and how to keep the laptop cool while inside a backpack. Power may become an issue once more lengthy tests are undertaken.

I have been researching the equipment used by the Justin.tv community. Based on pictures, they appear to be using equipment similar to this: JTV RIG

Made the first venture over the Sydney Harbour Bridge on a bicycle. To cross the bridge on bike you need to cross on the west side instead of the east side. The south ramp is biker friendly, but the north ramp requires you to dismount and carry your bike down. I found a nice guide to crossing the bridge on a bicycle that can be found here. While you can’t see the Opera House on the west side of the bridge, you can get a nice view of Luna Park.

Luna Park from the Harbour Bridge

An inviting pool next to Luna Park

I have brought a toiletries bag with me the past couple of years and it has provided nice conveniences. Inside is a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and shampoo. If I am pressed for space, I might also keep deodorant, cologne, and a razor inside too. When travelling, a bag like this allows you to easily keep your cleaning items organized and easily carry them to shower. Using one with a hook allows you to keep your stuff off the ground by hooking the toiletries bag to the shower nozzle or the side of the shower.

Toiletry Bag in action

Rolled up and Velcro’d closed

Took a bike ride to Coogee beach and the Botanical gardens in order to get out and explore. Also, wanted to see how I was feeling before going back into organized training. Things went well and tonight had my first run in 3 months. So far, so good. The coach is a trip and from what I’ve seen it looks like it will be a good group.

The Harbour from a different angle

A nice swimming pool tucked into a crevice in the Harbour

Apartments in Sydney are hard to come by. The word on the street is that there is currently around 1% vacancy in real estate for this city of around 4 million. That being said, I was somehow able to find an apartment within a relatively short period of time. The apartment is close to central and located about halfway between downtown and the beaches. Grocery, restaurants, and shopping are close and public transport also reaches the area. The apartment has also been recently renovated, is pretty much fully furnished, and has share bathrooms. I thought sharing bathroom facilities would be a pain, but so far they have been kept decent and there hasn’t been a wait to take a shower or go to the bathroom. Additionally, all utilities are included and there are coin operated washers and dryers on the premises. Today, I thought I would give readers an idea of what $180 AUD a week gets you in Sydney. Below is a picture tour of my massive room.

Gourmet kitchen

The closet with the ride parked in front

My neigbor Rob at the command center

Close up of the command center

View from window

Sydney has mounted police too

The neighborhood guard dog letting me know whose boss