My calendar year might as well end with October. It's the month I look forward to the most every year, and it's usually the busiest for me as well. This months hectic, stressful and anticipated activities included: A trip to England for a rather large Steampunk show at Oxford University, a cold but eye popping evening at Theatre Bizarre (incredible costume required), and participation in an annual show aimed at the gothic and dark arts called the Damned Show.

The trip to England was packed with unforgettable experiences for my wife and I. Our first stop was the quaint and cobble-stoned city of Oxford. Greeted by rain, we hopped off the train with all of our luggage to begin what was supposed to be a quick ten minute walk to the hotel. Just for the record, maps are a bit harder to fold back up when they're wet and limp. Twenty minutes later, drenched and a little disoriented, we finally located our hotel. Amazingly enough, this was the last time we were hit by rain during our stay in England.

When I arrived at the museum to unpack and set up the clocks, a near nightmare experience was unveiled. Apparently the tiny vibrations during the shipping process caused some of the screws to turn and shake loose. There were pieces loose in the box! Luckily everything stayed away from the gears, and there was no permanent damage. The clock was re-assembled, hung, and seems to be fine. Because of this, I'm very glad that I decided to make an appearance and set everything up myself.

The exhibition is filled with some very nice work. If you're going to be near Oxford between now and February 21st, I recommend a visit! Read More...