Welcome to Perth

Perth: the most isolated city in the world. Cricket stadium: the Wacca (these Aussies...). England lead 1-0 after two tests and a win here will seal the Ashes for us. A good first day is a must. We win the toss and opt to field. A few early wickets perhaps, some good low-scoring overs. The possibility of bowling them out on the first day again? Surely not.

Well, actually, surely yes! (Or whatever the opposite to 'surely not' is...) England put on a beautiful display and reduced Australia to 268 all out. The Aussie's were 69-5 at one point so did well to reach that total, thanks mostly to 'Mr Cricket' Hussey, Haddin and Johnson (who was having some beef with Anderson which I always love in cricket. They get so bitchy. It's brilliant.) who all hit half centuries in an otherwise uninspired batting display. Collingwood made a stunning catch to oust Cap'ain Ponting (is his job in jeapordy?) who had played a few pretty tasty balls and looked to be settling in for a thrilling innings. He was pretty peeved to have to leave, I would think. And much more peeved to witness the fast and disturbing demise of his team. By the end of play Strauss and Cook had steered England nicely to 29-0.

Boy, I wish I had Sky Sports. Anyone want to buy me a subscription for Christmas?

Also, my brother just showed me the light and posted a link to Swann's Video Diaries of the Ashes. They are hilarious. Please find it on youtube. Seriously worth it.

I went to a Carol Service last night. One I used to sing in every year. It was great and nostalgic and really quite beautiful. It felt good to sing choral music again. I need to join a choir. I miss it. And I was killing those high notes (in a good way).

I'll keep you blogged...