Friday, 18 March

Here is a picture of me (when I was 19 - though I haven't changed much)! It was taken by my photographer friend Ogy. I do not have many pictures of myself and I am quite camera shy but this picture is not too bad (apparently). This is from my passport - people tell me that it looks very "your man in"... so here seems to be the right place for it.

Today I have been busy looking for a new job and reading a 91-page contract for a job with the U.S Agency for International Development that I have been put on the shortlist for. I am looking for something a bit closer to home than last time - though I am not too hopeful... I seem to have become pidgeonholed as an African conflict specialist!!

While I write I am listening to piano rags by Scott Joplin played by Joshua Rifkin. These are some of the best interpretations around. I like the music for its simplicity and catchiness. You can listen to the 'Maple Leaf Rag' on this link (if you have RealPlayer):
http://music.minnesota.publicradio.org/features/
9905_ragtime/rafiles/9905_mapleleafrag_28.ram
This is a recording of a piano roll made by Joplin himself in 1916 shortly before his death. As such it is a unique record of his work.

Thursday, 17 March

I just got back to England yesterday morning from Slovakia. I stayed with my friend Peter at his house in the mountains. We spent most of the time digging snow - to get to the house and to get his Skoda back on the road - it is true what they say about Skodas - the rear window heating is really useful when push-starting in cold weather!!

I had a great time seeing many good friends and seven countries: Italy, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova and Slovakia (I also passed through Slovenia and Hungary too). It has been a long time since I travelled to some of these places - not since my student days... When I was in Congo I realised that these opportunities are rare and should be taken when the chance arises...

Photos are on the way - I just need to repair my computer!