Paris at least has a reasonable public transport system. Sydney's was designed by drunk people on a budget. Oh well, I will toss a handful of sweets into my handbag in the morning and toss them at groups of youths if I need to get by in a hurry. They all seem to be on a permanent sugar high.

It actually reminds me of Holi, I think all the colours are adding to that. Though it is lovely to see all the habits.

Ratzinger seems very smart, and also very genuine in his manner. But yes, I agree with your assessment of the Fosters' chances. I think that Fisher's arrogance is sadly typical of that of many senior Australian churchmen. There are two types, and from evidence it appears he is in the entitlement camp, which sneers at the social justice camp.

I'm as fond of a good embroidery and choral spectacular as the next person, but I do believe that charity not spectacle was the core message of Christ.

Hmmm, Italian, eh? I have four months to learn enough to survive on my own around curators. Any suggestions?