Monday, January 31, 2011
I don't care
When I started this blog it had a very different purpose. I had a completely different vision of what it would become. In the past few weeks, I have become discouraged by the lack of response that I am receiving. I am disappointed that I get very few comments on my posts. I pour my heart and mind into this thing. I share so many stories, pictures and discoveries. I am also disenchanted by the fact that some of my closest friends and family do not read it. They do not even click on it and glance over it so they can have something to comment about when they see me. I know that some of my pieces are long, but I doubt that any of them would take more than a commercial break to read. Apart from that, I add other items to my blog, like pictures, slide shows, bible verses, jokes and famous quotes or sayings.
Today, I remembered why I took on this challenge. I wanted to get more technology skills. I wanted to write again (a past time that I enjoy, but rarely have time for apart from the writing I do at work). I wanted to feel as though I was talking to someone and I wanted to feel less lonely. I am on my own an awful lot these days!
I love writing and I am savouring the opportunity I have to do that. I have learned about the technology and I'm still learning. I sometimes feel like I am talking to someone. However, I feel just as lonely as before. But I have decided that I don't care.
I don't care if no one ever reads it again. I don't care if no one ever comments on my work. I am going to do the best that I can not to mention it to my social circle again. I will continue to write regularly, maybe not everyday, maybe more than once a day. I am going to write about whatever I like. I am going to say whatever I like. I am going to be the faceless writer that I dreamed of being. If you like reading my work, then you are more than welcome here. If you find it a chore, then don't waste your energy. If you would like to comment (negatively or positively) then you are also welcome to do so, a bit of healthy debate would be nice. If you don't want to comment, that's fine too.
This is for me. This is important to me. This is about me. I make no apologies. I am an author.
What is for you? What is important to you? What is about you? Do you apologise? Should you apologise? What are you? Who are you?
:) M
btw: feel free to answer these questions by clicking on the comment link, or not.
Today, I remembered why I took on this challenge. I wanted to get more technology skills. I wanted to write again (a past time that I enjoy, but rarely have time for apart from the writing I do at work). I wanted to feel as though I was talking to someone and I wanted to feel less lonely. I am on my own an awful lot these days!
I love writing and I am savouring the opportunity I have to do that. I have learned about the technology and I'm still learning. I sometimes feel like I am talking to someone. However, I feel just as lonely as before. But I have decided that I don't care.
I don't care if no one ever reads it again. I don't care if no one ever comments on my work. I am going to do the best that I can not to mention it to my social circle again. I will continue to write regularly, maybe not everyday, maybe more than once a day. I am going to write about whatever I like. I am going to say whatever I like. I am going to be the faceless writer that I dreamed of being. If you like reading my work, then you are more than welcome here. If you find it a chore, then don't waste your energy. If you would like to comment (negatively or positively) then you are also welcome to do so, a bit of healthy debate would be nice. If you don't want to comment, that's fine too.
This is for me. This is important to me. This is about me. I make no apologies. I am an author.
What is for you? What is important to you? What is about you? Do you apologise? Should you apologise? What are you? Who are you?
:) M
btw: feel free to answer these questions by clicking on the comment link, or not.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Part 4
Hello Everyone,
You know I really never intended on writing about the antics that seem to go on at my church, but it seems that the God I serve has an excellent sense of humour. Therefore, another story has come to light and I have to share.
When Mum and I arrived at church this morning there was a gathering and commotion in the foyer. A couple that attends the church... old friends of ours (literally old) had brought their grandchildren along. You might be imagining the many reasons why two small children might cause a commotion. However the children were nowhere to be seen. The grandfather was in the foyer, surrounded by several other church members (of similar age), struggling with a folded three-wheeled pram. He could not find the right button and did not know which part to pull and which part to push... he was offering $10 to anyone who could get it up before the meeting commenced.
Mum and I knelt on the floor and started lifting the pram, turning it over and around, searching for each button and switch and attempting to discover which one would magically pop open the pram and bounce it into position. We found the button, the minister, pushed it and in a rather awkward and jerky motion the pram unfolded and clicked into position.
That may not seem so humorous to some people. Here's the funny part. By the time Mum and I got into the act, the "grandfather" had given up and decided it would be much more fun to take photos of these confused adults crouched on the floor trying to put up his pram! I smiled and waved (I know his son and daughter-in-law, who would appreciate the funny side). I'm sure this is going to become one of those "remember when... stories" that will be trotted out the next twenty times we sit down for a meal together!
So that was that and I'm still waiting for my $10! :)
You know I really never intended on writing about the antics that seem to go on at my church, but it seems that the God I serve has an excellent sense of humour. Therefore, another story has come to light and I have to share.
When Mum and I arrived at church this morning there was a gathering and commotion in the foyer. A couple that attends the church... old friends of ours (literally old) had brought their grandchildren along. You might be imagining the many reasons why two small children might cause a commotion. However the children were nowhere to be seen. The grandfather was in the foyer, surrounded by several other church members (of similar age), struggling with a folded three-wheeled pram. He could not find the right button and did not know which part to pull and which part to push... he was offering $10 to anyone who could get it up before the meeting commenced.
Mum and I knelt on the floor and started lifting the pram, turning it over and around, searching for each button and switch and attempting to discover which one would magically pop open the pram and bounce it into position. We found the button, the minister, pushed it and in a rather awkward and jerky motion the pram unfolded and clicked into position.
That may not seem so humorous to some people. Here's the funny part. By the time Mum and I got into the act, the "grandfather" had given up and decided it would be much more fun to take photos of these confused adults crouched on the floor trying to put up his pram! I smiled and waved (I know his son and daughter-in-law, who would appreciate the funny side). I'm sure this is going to become one of those "remember when... stories" that will be trotted out the next twenty times we sit down for a meal together!
So that was that and I'm still waiting for my $10! :)
Friday, January 28, 2011
Favourite.... Books
It is no secret that I am a book lover. However, there are some books, classic and modern alike, that hold a special place in my heart and my library.
I am talking about the books that I can read again and again and again. The books that make me laugh or knowingly nod at a character description. My favourites have to be; Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Harry Potter. These books contain old friends. It doesn't matter how many times I read the book the magic of the written word enchants me every time. I feel at home, among friends, meandering down memory lane and on an adventure all at once.
I love books by Jane Austen, parodies of intelligent girls and their silly mothers, their understanding fathers and their ridiculous suitors. I enjoy reading them even if I've read them before. I enjoy curling up with Elenor and Marianne to cry over lost loves. I chuckle as Elizabeth proudly refuses the man she loves. I am appalled by the infidelity at Mansfield Park. I am consumed by the active imagination of Cartherine visiting Northanger Abbey. I am persuaded by Captain Wentworth that love can endure. I shake my head at the matchmaking blunders of Emma who has far too much time on her hands. I bite my lip and stifle my laughter at the antics described in the letters of Lady Susan and her cohorts.
I fall in love with my books every time I open them. They are like sunshine on a rainy day. They fill the gaps when my budget is slim and new books can't be bought.
Turn to your old books that you have already read and read them again. It's like visiting with friends!
I am talking about the books that I can read again and again and again. The books that make me laugh or knowingly nod at a character description. My favourites have to be; Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Harry Potter. These books contain old friends. It doesn't matter how many times I read the book the magic of the written word enchants me every time. I feel at home, among friends, meandering down memory lane and on an adventure all at once.
I love books by Jane Austen, parodies of intelligent girls and their silly mothers, their understanding fathers and their ridiculous suitors. I enjoy reading them even if I've read them before. I enjoy curling up with Elenor and Marianne to cry over lost loves. I chuckle as Elizabeth proudly refuses the man she loves. I am appalled by the infidelity at Mansfield Park. I am consumed by the active imagination of Cartherine visiting Northanger Abbey. I am persuaded by Captain Wentworth that love can endure. I shake my head at the matchmaking blunders of Emma who has far too much time on her hands. I bite my lip and stifle my laughter at the antics described in the letters of Lady Susan and her cohorts.
I fall in love with my books every time I open them. They are like sunshine on a rainy day. They fill the gaps when my budget is slim and new books can't be bought.
Turn to your old books that you have already read and read them again. It's like visiting with friends!
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Family
Ethel Watts Mumford once said,
"God gives us our relatives- thank God we can choose our friends."
Today, I am thankful for all the "family" I have. There are a great many of them that I haven't seen since I was a child and even more that I haven't even met! But, God must have chosen this bunch of crazies to be my family for a reason! Surely.... ?
I am also eternally grateful that until not so long ago, I still had all four of my biological grandparents alive and in my life! I have a few surrogate grannies around the place (but they don't know who they are, so I won't mention them again). At this point in time, three of my grandparents are alive and kicking! I thank God that I know them and they know me.
Though I must add that I disagree with Ms Mumford. God chose my friends too and He did a much better job than I ever could!
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
You Know It's Australia Day When....
1. The Weather Man is saying.."It's gonna be a scorcher!" and you believe him because it is only 7am and you are sweating.
2. When you switch on the TV the only options available are Cricket and Tennis or re-runs of Cricket
and Tennis.
3. Foxtel is celebrating with an Aussie Movie Marathon.
4. Some old guy is on TV during every commercial break telling you to "chuck some lamb on the barbie!"
6. Aussie Flags are showing up...EVERYWHERE!
7. The news is showing the same footage of a crowded beach that they have used for the last ten years.
8. People are talking about citizenship and getting "naturalised" (ouch).
9. There has been a natural disaster in the last six weeks.
10. A huge concert in the middle of your capital city is headlined by Aussie Artists.
11. Ya Mum made Pavlova... from scratch!!
12. You're disappointed when you realise that you forgot the lamingtons.
13. Some kid with a science degree is on TV claiming he's Australian of the Year!
14. The words; Crikey, Stone the crows, Ya silly sheila, Give us a snag and G'day Mate; slide into your vocabulary (just for the day) and
15. Anzac Biscuits are an acceptable breakfast food.
But you know what is truly great about Australia Day... We get a day off school and work (etc) so we can hang out with our "mates" and celebrate our Lucky Country! Regardless of the latest weather, our politics or our religion, we can all agree that Aussies live in the best country in the world!
Happy Australia Day Everyone!!! :)
2. When you switch on the TV the only options available are Cricket and Tennis or re-runs of Cricket
and Tennis.
3. Foxtel is celebrating with an Aussie Movie Marathon.
4. Some old guy is on TV during every commercial break telling you to "chuck some lamb on the barbie!"
6. Aussie Flags are showing up...EVERYWHERE!
7. The news is showing the same footage of a crowded beach that they have used for the last ten years.
8. People are talking about citizenship and getting "naturalised" (ouch).
9. There has been a natural disaster in the last six weeks.
10. A huge concert in the middle of your capital city is headlined by Aussie Artists.
11. Ya Mum made Pavlova... from scratch!!
12. You're disappointed when you realise that you forgot the lamingtons.
13. Some kid with a science degree is on TV claiming he's Australian of the Year!
14. The words; Crikey, Stone the crows, Ya silly sheila, Give us a snag and G'day Mate; slide into your vocabulary (just for the day) and
15. Anzac Biscuits are an acceptable breakfast food.
But you know what is truly great about Australia Day... We get a day off school and work (etc) so we can hang out with our "mates" and celebrate our Lucky Country! Regardless of the latest weather, our politics or our religion, we can all agree that Aussies live in the best country in the world!
Happy Australia Day Everyone!!! :)
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Dedicated to my favourite Boss
I know it is not Wednesday, but as tomorrow is "special" I am releasing this week's word early!
Our wonderful word is... MINUTIA. I chose it because I have been thinking about my work mates. My boss in particular hates fancy words that mean something simple. For example "pedagogy" and "embed." LOL
Our wonderful word is... MINUTIA. I chose it because I have been thinking about my work mates. My boss in particular hates fancy words that mean something simple. For example "pedagogy" and "embed." LOL
Anyway, I once used minutia in conversation and he got quite cranky with me. Firstly, because he didn't know what it meant. Secondly, because I could have quite easily said it a different way. However, in my research, I discovered that the word minutia is often misused. The definition is as follows...
mi·nu·ti·a
[mi-noo-shee-uh, -shuh, -nyoo-]
Show IPAUsually, minutiae. precise details; small or trifling matters: theminutiae of his craft.
That seems a little ambiguous to me, but basically it is saying that minutia is a single detail or insignificant piece of information. Minutiae is the plural form of minutia, so Minutiae refers to more than one detail or a collection of insignificant items of information. So we have all been pronouncing it wrong for years... don't worry though, I'm not going to start walking around saying minutiae... it sounds funny!
Hope you enjoyed your Vocabulary lesson for the week :)
Meet the Professor!
Monday, January 24, 2011
Back to School...TISSUES!!!
This morning I was going to write something terribly witty and insightful about the first day of the school year. But, when I finally dragged myself out of bed this morning and checked my emails, I had received photos from Sis. Nos 1-5 in full school uniform, grinning from ear to ear! Number 6 dressed up in his "day care clothes" ready for Pre-prep!
As the best Aunty in the world (I can't help it, comes naturally), my heart melted and I realised the little babies that I have rocked to sleep on occasion are big enough for SCHOOL!! I received single photos of numbers 4 and 5 because they start Prep today. I am so excited for them and I can't wait for the inevitable phone call this afternoon so that I can get all the details (x6!).
So I hope everyone has a nice day!
Parents who are sending their kids to school today... Congratulations! You made it through the holidays!!!
: D
As the best Aunty in the world (I can't help it, comes naturally), my heart melted and I realised the little babies that I have rocked to sleep on occasion are big enough for SCHOOL!! I received single photos of numbers 4 and 5 because they start Prep today. I am so excited for them and I can't wait for the inevitable phone call this afternoon so that I can get all the details (x6!).
So I hope everyone has a nice day!
Parents who are sending their kids to school today... Congratulations! You made it through the holidays!!!
: D
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Church Chatter: Part Three?
During the week I was asked to lead the children's segment for Church this morning. I decided that it would be a nice idea to talk about "going back to school." For those of you who are unaware; in Australia tomorrow most kids are going back to school after a six week summer holiday! I was beautifully prepared, with props and notes and a prayer. I planned to talk about how the first day of school (for the year) can be really exciting because it is something new, but it can also be really scary as you meet your new teacher, and it's not like being at home all the time...etc etc. But God is our Special Friend and we don't have to be scared when we go to school because He is with us all the time and He will help us as we learn new things.
Two minutes into the children's segment I was informed that 4 out of the 6 children who attended Church this morning are home schooled!
Two minutes into the children's segment I was informed that 4 out of the 6 children who attended Church this morning are home schooled!
Saturday, January 22, 2011
A Short Story...
A short story written for my Creative Writing Class at University, some minor details have been changed to protect the "innocent." It is almost completely fictional. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it.
Every morning I woke up at the crack of dawn and rode my bicycle to the local newsagent's. Mr Jones, would give us our papers and off we'd go. Pay day was the best day. This was when all the customers would give us sixpence in pennies and Mr Jones would pay us for our work. When we heard that the money was changing over, I devised a plan. I decided that I would collect as many pennies as I could and start a coin collection. I figured that in a few years time, I could sell them as collectors' items and make a fortune. But a lucky break and a true stroke of genius came just a week before the historic change over occurred.
It was pay day, and I was collecting my pennies just as I had done for the last few months. Mr Jones ushered us boys into the shop as he always did. He had a huge grin on his face and with a scratch of his whiskers he said, "now boys, don't tell anyone about this, I have a surprise for you." We all looked at each other, if he didn't get it over with and pay us soon, we were going to be late for school. "You see boys, being a shop keeper," Mr Jones continued, retrieving two cash bags from under the counter. "I have acquired some bags of one and two cent pieces in readiness for the change over next week." We froze in anticipation.
Mr Jones took a handful of each coin from the bags and six little eyes widened as three little jaws almost dropped to the floor. "Wow, Mr Jones!" Jack murmured in amazement. "Yeah" replied Mr Jones, "Quite exciting isn't it boys?" My mouth began to water, if only he would give us one, we would be the most envied kids in school. "Here's the thing boys, I don't need this many one and two cent pieces. So this is what I'll do..." He paused, and reached into the bags. We all leaned over and held our breath. The time was forgotten, breakfast- and school for that matter- could wait. "You kids can have a handful from each bag as well as your pay this week."
Joy of Joys, Mr Jones was the best boss ever! We thanked our favourite boss over and over as we left that morning and hurried home.
Later that day, at school, I showed my classmates my treasure. I quickly became very popular! "Can I have one?" asked Harry. "Yeah, me too!" exclaimed Tom. I paused for a moment, looked into their eager faces and thought it over. Finally, I sighed "sure," then with a smile, "you can have one of each for sixpence."
The Year I Doubled My Money
1966, the year the Australian Monetary system "changed over." No more pennies and pounds, just dollars and cents. I was about 12 and worked a paper run for the local newsagent. My mother insisted that I learn the value of a pound. I certainly made a lot of money that year...Every morning I woke up at the crack of dawn and rode my bicycle to the local newsagent's. Mr Jones, would give us our papers and off we'd go. Pay day was the best day. This was when all the customers would give us sixpence in pennies and Mr Jones would pay us for our work. When we heard that the money was changing over, I devised a plan. I decided that I would collect as many pennies as I could and start a coin collection. I figured that in a few years time, I could sell them as collectors' items and make a fortune. But a lucky break and a true stroke of genius came just a week before the historic change over occurred.
It was pay day, and I was collecting my pennies just as I had done for the last few months. Mr Jones ushered us boys into the shop as he always did. He had a huge grin on his face and with a scratch of his whiskers he said, "now boys, don't tell anyone about this, I have a surprise for you." We all looked at each other, if he didn't get it over with and pay us soon, we were going to be late for school. "You see boys, being a shop keeper," Mr Jones continued, retrieving two cash bags from under the counter. "I have acquired some bags of one and two cent pieces in readiness for the change over next week." We froze in anticipation.
Mr Jones took a handful of each coin from the bags and six little eyes widened as three little jaws almost dropped to the floor. "Wow, Mr Jones!" Jack murmured in amazement. "Yeah" replied Mr Jones, "Quite exciting isn't it boys?" My mouth began to water, if only he would give us one, we would be the most envied kids in school. "Here's the thing boys, I don't need this many one and two cent pieces. So this is what I'll do..." He paused, and reached into the bags. We all leaned over and held our breath. The time was forgotten, breakfast- and school for that matter- could wait. "You kids can have a handful from each bag as well as your pay this week."
Joy of Joys, Mr Jones was the best boss ever! We thanked our favourite boss over and over as we left that morning and hurried home.
Later that day, at school, I showed my classmates my treasure. I quickly became very popular! "Can I have one?" asked Harry. "Yeah, me too!" exclaimed Tom. I paused for a moment, looked into their eager faces and thought it over. Finally, I sighed "sure," then with a smile, "you can have one of each for sixpence."
Friday, January 21, 2011
Eye pillows
Most eye pillows look like the ones shown in the picture. They are kind of like a mini wheat bag (ice/heat). Some have lavender and others have some such aromatherapy stuff in them to assist in the sleeping process. I have to say, these have become an essential item in my freezer, esky and lunchbox. If I have a long day out of the house, my eye pillow comes with me. I use at least one on my face every night. In fact, it has sort of become my security blanket, I can't get to sleep without one. I put mine in the freezer to keep them super cold. That sensation on my eyes and face soothes me big time. But it rarely does that for other people, usually keeping them in the fridge is enough. Some people like them heated, but I live in Queensland Australia dude, no way am I putting a "warm" anything on my face at night. These little bags of cold, dark, relief are my best friends on a hot summer night (on any night really). To demonstrate what I will do for one of these, I will tell you a story... I once left my eye pillow at work (like I said, a long day out and it goes with me) and I had a huge migraine. I tried to get through the next day without my little friend, but I just couldn't bare it. So, I called my Head of Department, who rummaged through my desk drawers (a very brave man!), found it and brought it to my house! I could not possibly give him enough chocolate to let him know how much I appreciate that!!! Especially considering the doctor banned me from work for a week and I just wouldn't have survived that long without my pillow of sweet restful happiness!!!! You will be glad to hear that I now have several "little friends" so that such an incident does not have to be repeated. But I have misplaced one of them. :(
Enjoy your weekend, and go get yourself one of these bad boys, you won't regret it, I never have.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
The Most Beautiful Woman I Know
A great many of the chicks in my life will be clambering to claim this title.... but alas there is only one and if you didn't get a special email with the link, it's not you!
The most beautiful woman I know is not a teenage super model. I didn't meet her at a celebrity party. I've never seen her picture in the newspaper or on the cover of a magazine. She is not a famous actress. She doesn't live in a mansion or have millions of dollars at her disposal, or own a huge corporation. She doesn't turn heads when she enters a room. She is not a princess with a crown and ball gown.
The most beautiful woman I know, goes to my church. I met her in the ladies' room. She loves God. She loves her family and from what I've seen, they adore her. She prays with sincerity. She speaks with clarity and economy. She spends her time in service and gives what she can. She has a wide range of talents which she shares without pride. Her smile lights up a dark day. Her confidence, encouragement and willingness to "have a go" inspires me. She prays for me when I can't pray for myself! She is truly a woman of God and His beauty shines through her always!
"A Great Title" has a rule... No Real Names. So...
To The Most Beautiful Woman I Know,
THANK YOU!!!
Love M
The most beautiful woman I know is not a teenage super model. I didn't meet her at a celebrity party. I've never seen her picture in the newspaper or on the cover of a magazine. She is not a famous actress. She doesn't live in a mansion or have millions of dollars at her disposal, or own a huge corporation. She doesn't turn heads when she enters a room. She is not a princess with a crown and ball gown.
The most beautiful woman I know, goes to my church. I met her in the ladies' room. She loves God. She loves her family and from what I've seen, they adore her. She prays with sincerity. She speaks with clarity and economy. She spends her time in service and gives what she can. She has a wide range of talents which she shares without pride. Her smile lights up a dark day. Her confidence, encouragement and willingness to "have a go" inspires me. She prays for me when I can't pray for myself! She is truly a woman of God and His beauty shines through her always!
"A Great Title" has a rule... No Real Names. So...
To The Most Beautiful Woman I Know,
THANK YOU!!!
Love M
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
New Word
The first word that comes to mind today is... Ouch!
The second is a word that I invented on Monday afternoon. I was in lots of pain, I was really sad and tired and cranky. The BFF was sitting on the lounge and I was in the kitchen. I moaned, and said to her, "This is swear-worthy!" She giggled and said, "that should be your new word for Wednesday." So because the BFF is almost always right here it is....
Swear-worthy: 1. used to describe a situation that is frustrating, infuriating or painful enough to make one want to swear. It describes an extreme event or ongoing situation where one who does not swear as a rule, loses control of their vocabulary. e.g. "Sh*#" cried the mother, as she swerved her car full of children, narrowly missing the lamp post. A swear-worthy situation, if ever there was one.
2. used in such a situation so as to refrain from swearing, as above. eg "this is swear-worthy"
FYI: I haven't actually used any swear words this week. I have managed to control myself. Instead I invented a new word, so something good came out of all this pain.
GGM
The second is a word that I invented on Monday afternoon. I was in lots of pain, I was really sad and tired and cranky. The BFF was sitting on the lounge and I was in the kitchen. I moaned, and said to her, "This is swear-worthy!" She giggled and said, "that should be your new word for Wednesday." So because the BFF is almost always right here it is....
Swear-worthy: 1. used to describe a situation that is frustrating, infuriating or painful enough to make one want to swear. It describes an extreme event or ongoing situation where one who does not swear as a rule, loses control of their vocabulary. e.g. "Sh*#" cried the mother, as she swerved her car full of children, narrowly missing the lamp post. A swear-worthy situation, if ever there was one.
2. used in such a situation so as to refrain from swearing, as above. eg "this is swear-worthy"
FYI: I haven't actually used any swear words this week. I have managed to control myself. Instead I invented a new word, so something good came out of all this pain.
GGM
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Have been sent to bed
The physio has sent me to bed for the day... well not exactly bed, but I don't think I was supposed to switch on the laptop. I was just checking my emails, it only takes a couple of minutes.. next thing I know I'm paying bills and updating my blog and I think I may be in the middle of an email conversation with the BFF. Anyway, just wanted to let you know, that I'm "resting" so if I miss a day or two this week, it's not because I'm slacking off, but because I'm following medical advice.
If you are really worried about me, chocolates and fresh flowers are preferred over get well cards!
LOL ;)
If you are really worried about me, chocolates and fresh flowers are preferred over get well cards!
LOL ;)
Monday, January 17, 2011
Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Ugly Truth
I informed you all that I managed to finish reading this book on New Years Eve (although technically it was after midnight so it was New Years Day).
I love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid Series by Jeff Kinney. It is a "coming of age" story from the perspective of a 12 y.o. boy called Greg, starting middle school. The Ugly Truth tells of his last(?) year at middle school and he is hitting puberty.... with a great big bat! He is dreading the "talk" that he will get from Grandma at the next family event, which is the fourth wedding for the same Uncle. He experiences a girl/boy party (of sorts). As always he tries to navigate his way around school work, parents, sibling rivalries, finding friends and keeping them. The family gets a maid, his friend begins to "develop" before him, and he inadvertently gets himself in trouble. Just like most teenagers I suppose!
I like reading these books. Besides the fact that I "have" to read them I enjoy taking that step back in time. Even though the protagonist is a boy, I remember having similar feelings, events and characters at my high school. I remember wanting to be popular and not knowing how to go about it. I remember having friends that weren't really my friends. I also remember Sex Ed classes and the related rumours. I remember the teachers who unsuccessfully attempted to be "cool." I remember wanting a pet (still want one!) and I remember being very very confused. I remember my parents working all the time and wanting me to be more responsible. But the main reason that I enjoy it, is that the author manages to find the humour in almost all of the painful and ridiculous events in the teenage experience. He includes comic strip type sketches of characters and objects. From the perspective of a grown up, it is an easy read and a nice wander down memory lane.
Kids seem to enjoy these books too. Mr 10yo (my nephew, aka no1) is a little obsessed. He was very excited to receive the first book for Christmas, and even more excited that I received book 5 for Christmas. So I would recommend it for anyone who is at school or has been to school. The books are really very funny, kids can relate to them... also, there is a bit of toilet/ snot/ stinky cheese humour and who doesn't like that?!
I love the Diary of a Wimpy Kid Series by Jeff Kinney. It is a "coming of age" story from the perspective of a 12 y.o. boy called Greg, starting middle school. The Ugly Truth tells of his last(?) year at middle school and he is hitting puberty.... with a great big bat! He is dreading the "talk" that he will get from Grandma at the next family event, which is the fourth wedding for the same Uncle. He experiences a girl/boy party (of sorts). As always he tries to navigate his way around school work, parents, sibling rivalries, finding friends and keeping them. The family gets a maid, his friend begins to "develop" before him, and he inadvertently gets himself in trouble. Just like most teenagers I suppose!
I like reading these books. Besides the fact that I "have" to read them I enjoy taking that step back in time. Even though the protagonist is a boy, I remember having similar feelings, events and characters at my high school. I remember wanting to be popular and not knowing how to go about it. I remember having friends that weren't really my friends. I also remember Sex Ed classes and the related rumours. I remember the teachers who unsuccessfully attempted to be "cool." I remember wanting a pet (still want one!) and I remember being very very confused. I remember my parents working all the time and wanting me to be more responsible. But the main reason that I enjoy it, is that the author manages to find the humour in almost all of the painful and ridiculous events in the teenage experience. He includes comic strip type sketches of characters and objects. From the perspective of a grown up, it is an easy read and a nice wander down memory lane.
Kids seem to enjoy these books too. Mr 10yo (my nephew, aka no1) is a little obsessed. He was very excited to receive the first book for Christmas, and even more excited that I received book 5 for Christmas. So I would recommend it for anyone who is at school or has been to school. The books are really very funny, kids can relate to them... also, there is a bit of toilet/ snot/ stinky cheese humour and who doesn't like that?!
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Crazy Salad Some Things About Women
A book by Nora Ephron
My favourite writer of non-fiction. She wrote articles (and I imagine she still does) for a range of magazines. She has published a number of these in collections. The most recent of which is "I feel bad about my neck" about being a woman and aging gracefully. But one of the first that she collated and with a similar theme was Crazy Salad.
This book was a collation of articles that she wrote during the early 1970's about women and the women's movement (ie the feminist movement). As a 20-something woman living in the 21st Century it is quite an eye opening experience every time I dive into her book. Sprawled on my bed with the book propped up on my book seat, my eyes get wider and wider as I read about consciousness-raising, the development of (what I thought were mythical) feminine hygiene products, feminist rallies, women in politics and baseball, pioneers of the women's movement, Nora's insecurity about her breasts and so much more.
I am sometimes shocked by some of the comments she makes. I can't believe that an intelligent woman like Nora, raised by writer parents who both worked throughout her childhood (in other words, a revolutionary family of the 1950's) can say such things. She talks about husbands hitting wives as though it is an everyday event, not something shocking or contemptible, not something to be fought against, but a fact of life that everyday women live with everyday. It shocks me that during the height of the women's movement domestic violence and sexual harassment was not an issue at the forefront of women's minds. No. Instead, they discussed the importance of sharing home duties, having careers, being paid the same as men and wearing slacks to church. They whinged about the "glass ceiling" and how poorly they were treated by men in the workplace. Then they went to work and let their boss put his hand up their dress. I don't understand it. I am flummoxed, confused, surprised, angry, sad, overwhelmed, uncertain, fretful and bewildered. Did I mention I don't get it?
Then, I wake up, and realise that this was the 1970's. It was a strange and confusing time in the life of America and the women's movement. The extremist views were the ones reported. This woman is enlightened and perhaps tells these stories with an hint of irony. No one realised that Jane Austen was writing parodies when she was still alive. But now, we read her books and see that while there was an element of truth in her works the best of her books are the ones that poke fun. The send up of the ridiculous women of 19th Century "society" makes her works amusing and sometimes (depending on what you have been eating or drinking) hilarious. When I place the text in perspective that way, I realise that I need to relax and stop freaking out. It is still unbelievable that only 40 years ago women were so very confused and misinformed. They felt the need to purchase ludicrous products to solve imaginary problems, or talk more than walk. However, I wonder if in 200 years this collection of articles will be studied and considered as a parody or if it will be upheld as a factual account of silly women behaving in a silly way when the whole world was silly.
I can't wait to delve into another article and see what the women of the day were doing, thinking, reading and saying. I want to read their stories, maybe I am judging them and laughing at them. But maybe, more importantly, I am finding the similarities between their silly insecurities and mine. Maybe, I am realising how lucky I am that I can learn from their mistakes. Maybe, I'm just reading a well written book by a talented author who makes me think about the past, the present and the future.
Maybe I'm just enjoying the experience of being in another world for just a little while.
My favourite writer of non-fiction. She wrote articles (and I imagine she still does) for a range of magazines. She has published a number of these in collections. The most recent of which is "I feel bad about my neck" about being a woman and aging gracefully. But one of the first that she collated and with a similar theme was Crazy Salad.
This book was a collation of articles that she wrote during the early 1970's about women and the women's movement (ie the feminist movement). As a 20-something woman living in the 21st Century it is quite an eye opening experience every time I dive into her book. Sprawled on my bed with the book propped up on my book seat, my eyes get wider and wider as I read about consciousness-raising, the development of (what I thought were mythical) feminine hygiene products, feminist rallies, women in politics and baseball, pioneers of the women's movement, Nora's insecurity about her breasts and so much more.
I am sometimes shocked by some of the comments she makes. I can't believe that an intelligent woman like Nora, raised by writer parents who both worked throughout her childhood (in other words, a revolutionary family of the 1950's) can say such things. She talks about husbands hitting wives as though it is an everyday event, not something shocking or contemptible, not something to be fought against, but a fact of life that everyday women live with everyday. It shocks me that during the height of the women's movement domestic violence and sexual harassment was not an issue at the forefront of women's minds. No. Instead, they discussed the importance of sharing home duties, having careers, being paid the same as men and wearing slacks to church. They whinged about the "glass ceiling" and how poorly they were treated by men in the workplace. Then they went to work and let their boss put his hand up their dress. I don't understand it. I am flummoxed, confused, surprised, angry, sad, overwhelmed, uncertain, fretful and bewildered. Did I mention I don't get it?
Then, I wake up, and realise that this was the 1970's. It was a strange and confusing time in the life of America and the women's movement. The extremist views were the ones reported. This woman is enlightened and perhaps tells these stories with an hint of irony. No one realised that Jane Austen was writing parodies when she was still alive. But now, we read her books and see that while there was an element of truth in her works the best of her books are the ones that poke fun. The send up of the ridiculous women of 19th Century "society" makes her works amusing and sometimes (depending on what you have been eating or drinking) hilarious. When I place the text in perspective that way, I realise that I need to relax and stop freaking out. It is still unbelievable that only 40 years ago women were so very confused and misinformed. They felt the need to purchase ludicrous products to solve imaginary problems, or talk more than walk. However, I wonder if in 200 years this collection of articles will be studied and considered as a parody or if it will be upheld as a factual account of silly women behaving in a silly way when the whole world was silly.
I can't wait to delve into another article and see what the women of the day were doing, thinking, reading and saying. I want to read their stories, maybe I am judging them and laughing at them. But maybe, more importantly, I am finding the similarities between their silly insecurities and mine. Maybe, I am realising how lucky I am that I can learn from their mistakes. Maybe, I'm just reading a well written book by a talented author who makes me think about the past, the present and the future.
Maybe I'm just enjoying the experience of being in another world for just a little while.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Jigsaw Puzzles
I have been enjoying my holidays and the opportunity for some quiet time at home, filling my hours with reading and drawing and colouring in, all the while listening to music or watching old movies. I have also been doing puzzles. I'm talking about the kind of puzzle that comes in a box, in lots of little pieces, and you have to put it together to make the picture on the front of the box.
The other day, I was packing up a puzzle so that I could pull out another one. As I pulled each little piece away from its mates and put it in a bag I became a little sad. That puzzle had occupied the kitchen table for a number of weeks. Everyone who entered our house had seen it, leaned over it, peered at the box and attempted to place a piece correctly. Everyone had enquired regarding it's progress. It had filled the hours of quiet evenings when I was unable to sleep. It had kept me company while I "watched" television or listened to music. Any time I became just a little bit bored, I would be drawn towards the picture and become engrossed in it. There were nights when I would close my eyes in bed and see candy canes and Christmas ornaments, puzzle pieces everywhere. Every time I walked past the table I would pick up a piece and examine it, twisting and turning it between my fingers, eyeing the holes in the puzzle, trying to match a colour or shape, anything to find the right position. The perfect place for this seemingly insignificant piece of cardboard did exist.
There is nothing like finding the right puzzle piece and pushing it gently into place. Squeezed between the other pieces, it brings it's tiny shape and distorted colours to the big picture. It contributes what it has and as you place piece after piece you begin to see the scene take shape and form a life of its own. Eventually with a triumphant grin you come down to the last few pieces and all of a sudden you are in a frenzy. The pieces just fall into place, like they are magnetised to their cohorts. One after another, you place them more and more quickly until... the triumphant grin becomes a glow and your whole face lights up in pure ecstasy as you lift that final piece of the puzzle and place it gently and methodically into position. You did it, you conquered this (insert number here) piece monster!
The puzzle had taken pride of place, once finished. I took photos, visitors admired it and the children were scolded away from it. This "experience" was over. This beautiful picture, with a life of its own, had been finally assembled. Now, it was being dismantled. Packed away. The big picture became tiny detached pieces again, destined to return to the shelf and gather dust. There was something sad about those little jigsaw shaped items lying on the table. Separated. Lonely. There was no way anyone could see how each piece would fit together to make something beautiful. I sat there for a moment and contemplated all of this.
Then I rolled my eyes, shook my head and switched on the television. What a drama queen?!
The other day, I was packing up a puzzle so that I could pull out another one. As I pulled each little piece away from its mates and put it in a bag I became a little sad. That puzzle had occupied the kitchen table for a number of weeks. Everyone who entered our house had seen it, leaned over it, peered at the box and attempted to place a piece correctly. Everyone had enquired regarding it's progress. It had filled the hours of quiet evenings when I was unable to sleep. It had kept me company while I "watched" television or listened to music. Any time I became just a little bit bored, I would be drawn towards the picture and become engrossed in it. There were nights when I would close my eyes in bed and see candy canes and Christmas ornaments, puzzle pieces everywhere. Every time I walked past the table I would pick up a piece and examine it, twisting and turning it between my fingers, eyeing the holes in the puzzle, trying to match a colour or shape, anything to find the right position. The perfect place for this seemingly insignificant piece of cardboard did exist.
There is nothing like finding the right puzzle piece and pushing it gently into place. Squeezed between the other pieces, it brings it's tiny shape and distorted colours to the big picture. It contributes what it has and as you place piece after piece you begin to see the scene take shape and form a life of its own. Eventually with a triumphant grin you come down to the last few pieces and all of a sudden you are in a frenzy. The pieces just fall into place, like they are magnetised to their cohorts. One after another, you place them more and more quickly until... the triumphant grin becomes a glow and your whole face lights up in pure ecstasy as you lift that final piece of the puzzle and place it gently and methodically into position. You did it, you conquered this (insert number here) piece monster!
The puzzle had taken pride of place, once finished. I took photos, visitors admired it and the children were scolded away from it. This "experience" was over. This beautiful picture, with a life of its own, had been finally assembled. Now, it was being dismantled. Packed away. The big picture became tiny detached pieces again, destined to return to the shelf and gather dust. There was something sad about those little jigsaw shaped items lying on the table. Separated. Lonely. There was no way anyone could see how each piece would fit together to make something beautiful. I sat there for a moment and contemplated all of this.
Then I rolled my eyes, shook my head and switched on the television. What a drama queen?!
Bobby Pins!!!
A favourite accessory of mine! Earlier this week, I was doing my hair and I just wanted to get it off my face and my neck and I wanted to look cute and effortless. A few well placed bobby pins and I was done! Although there is also something to be said for good quality hairspray. The humble bobby pin has been around for a long time and has been credited for many famous hairdos. It has been portrayed in films as the magic item that can hold an entire bun in place for 5 days then break-in to the back door in seconds. One can only imagine what MacGyver could do with one.
But be warned: 1. Don't skimp or you might as well put twigs in your hair, this is one item where, even I (cheapskate queen), must purchase quality. 2. They are precious and have a habit of "disappearing" under the bed, between the couch cushions and at the bottom of your hand bag. You paid good money for these magical little treasures, take care of them. 3. Lastly, like all hair accessories, they will always match your hairspray!
I wonder if you can really pick a lock with a hair pin?
Anyway, that's the favourite of the week! Whether it's a glam-do for a night out on the town, a messy bun for work or holding back the locks while you are touching up the make up, a good quality bobby pin (and maybe a few of its mates) are a girl's best friend! But be warned: 1. Don't skimp or you might as well put twigs in your hair, this is one item where, even I (cheapskate queen), must purchase quality. 2. They are precious and have a habit of "disappearing" under the bed, between the couch cushions and at the bottom of your hand bag. You paid good money for these magical little treasures, take care of them. 3. Lastly, like all hair accessories, they will always match your hairspray!
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Aussies
Today's thank you goes to the people of our emergency services organisations. Great Job guys and gals. Keep up the good work! It is horrifying to see the footage of the floods (and bush fires and motor vehicle accidents and train disasters and cyclone aftermath) on television. You see it in real time in real life. You meet the people effected and you save lives. I am in awe of your courage. You are prayed for daily! Hang in there!
I also want to thank the families of our emergency services workers. Some of these men and women are volunteers and some are paid, but all of them have families. Parents, husbands, wives, partners, children, sisters and brothers: Thank you for sharing these amazing people with us. You are prayed for too!
Aussies are awesome! Maybe we can't play cricket (I watch the news), but this team will survive and be bigger and better than ever!
So That's Thursday. Praise God for the blue sky and the shining sun!
I also want to thank the families of our emergency services workers. Some of these men and women are volunteers and some are paid, but all of them have families. Parents, husbands, wives, partners, children, sisters and brothers: Thank you for sharing these amazing people with us. You are prayed for too!
Aussies are awesome! Maybe we can't play cricket (I watch the news), but this team will survive and be bigger and better than ever!
So That's Thursday. Praise God for the blue sky and the shining sun!
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Cacophony..big word for a little book
I gave my nephew, Mr10yo, a book for his birthday last year. We were hanging out at the DVD shop the other day and I suggested we hire out the movie to which he replied, "Nah, you gave me the book and it was really boring!" So we hired out a film called Marmaduke about a great dane (that's a breed of dog :D) who moves from Kansas to California with his family. It was funny and we actually watched it twice! But I digress.
I got the book from Mr 10yo and decided to read it for myself. I bought it for him because I had seen the film and I thought that he would enjoy the book. Well, after reading the first chapter I understood why he didn't like it. The story was awesome, it had villians, disappearances, magic, fire, drama, love, friendship, fighting and conflict resolution. But the novel itself was really badly written. The authors had novelised the screenplay. In an attempt to make themselves sound like literary geniuses they used all these really weird phrases and big words like 'cacophony.' No wonder the poor kid was bored, he probably didn't understand a word of it. Anyway, I sort of guessed the meaning from the context surrounding it, but here is the real definition for those OCD people out there. You can even press the speaker button and hear a funny lady say the word.
Hope your Wednesday is Wonderful! Keep Safe!
Show IPA
I got the book from Mr 10yo and decided to read it for myself. I bought it for him because I had seen the film and I thought that he would enjoy the book. Well, after reading the first chapter I understood why he didn't like it. The story was awesome, it had villians, disappearances, magic, fire, drama, love, friendship, fighting and conflict resolution. But the novel itself was really badly written. The authors had novelised the screenplay. In an attempt to make themselves sound like literary geniuses they used all these really weird phrases and big words like 'cacophony.' No wonder the poor kid was bored, he probably didn't understand a word of it. Anyway, I sort of guessed the meaning from the context surrounding it, but here is the real definition for those OCD people out there. You can even press the speaker button and hear a funny lady say the word.
Hope your Wednesday is Wonderful! Keep Safe!
ca·coph·o·ny
[kuh-kof-uh-nee] Show IPA–noun, plural -nies.
1.
harsh discordance of sound; dissonance: a cacophony ofhoots, cackles, and wails.
2.
a discordant and meaningless mixture of sounds: thecacophony produced by city traffic at midday.
3.
Music . frequent use of discords of a harshness andrelationship difficult to understand.
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