in the sun.
Take a deep breath.
Drink a glass of water.
Prepare a fresh meal.
Hug someone you love
laugh a lot or at least a little.
Rest and Repeat.
 |
| Thanks Free Range Stock |
Movement
Sunshine
Fresh air
Water
Nutrition
Touch
Laughter
Sleep
Thursday, 29 August 2013
The eight natural doctors.
Go for a walk,
in the sun.
Take a deep breath.
Drink a glass of water.
Prepare a fresh meal.
Hug someone you love
laugh a lot or at least a little.
Rest and Repeat.
in the sun.
Take a deep breath.
Drink a glass of water.
Prepare a fresh meal.
Hug someone you love
laugh a lot or at least a little.
Rest and Repeat.
Amongst other things, this is a love story.... the theme changes occasionally... this year it is fitness and learning to love yourself.
Thursday, 22 August 2013
Just add salt.
The first year I started cooking for my bonus kids was tough. They seemed so afraid of some of the new foods I made that they would cry and even gagged a few times...they were used to their Dad cooking simple meals or buying them 'treats'. I did my best to try and please them but there was no way in my lifetime that I was going to let these kids eat hot dogs, pizza and chicken nuggets as a staple on my watch. Junk food was no longer to be considered a treat, and a whole lot more salad, vegetables and home made food was going to be on the menu.
Four things I did to introduce new foods.
1) Make a dish they have learned to love. The day before I make them something they never used to like but now do. I reminded them how they used to hate it, and praise their maturing taste buds. "When you were babies you only liked milk, now you are growing up and enjoy lots of new foods"... I encourage a conversation about the first time they tried something and the first time they liked it. I remind them that the food is the same as always but their taste buds are different. I promised them that we only make them eat healthy, fresh food because we love them. If we didn't care about them we would let them eat all the rubbish they wanted and they would end up being unhealthy and most likely unhappy adults. I shared a few 'little known facts' based on my own experiences, like you only have to try a food 17 times before your taste buds learn to love it. The kids love reporting that they like a food before the 17th taste, though we never really keep count. It goes something like this. Child says "Ida I love celery now and I have only tasted it 9 times." I say "wow you are growing up fast, soon you'll be asking me to cook mushrooms!"
Add lots of salt and/or sugar. If your kids love fast food and highly processed rubbish, all the real flavours come from salt and sugar. I add extra salt to new dishes and let them add more salt, until I'm sure all they can really taste is the salt. Of course each time I cook the dish again I add more of what we like and a lot less salt. One chilli seed at a time (not the whole chilli) to build a tolerance. I introduce new flavours slowly, for example, I chop or wipe onion or garlic over the board then chop the other vegetables, so the subtle flavour of onion is on everything but you can't see it, then occasionally a few finely chopped pieces make it in to the dish... oops! It took a little time but now I don't have to keep onion in a separate dish for the adults, we all eat onion in our salad.
Keep them a little bit hungry and they are more likely to eat a new dish. This,I learned from a Grandmother who raised her 9 children, on a farm by herself after her husband died in his early forties. Serve a small breakfast and lunch and no snacks throughout the day. When the mid afternoon munchies arrive I offer them some water, if they don't want water then they are not really thirsty or hungry. If they are 'starving' I remind them that poor kids are lucky if they eat once a day, and they will survive the two hours until dinner time just fine. No sweet drinks on the table, but plenty of water (for all that extra salt!). Prepare the new food alongside a small portion of one their favourites. Give them too many choices and they are not going to try something new. They are more likely to taste and appreciate a new food if they are hungry. I also encourage them to help me in the kitchen and do little taste tests along the way.
Give them information. What makes people unhealthy and fat, what vitamins make people's bodies grow strong, brains smarter and skin glow? What is really in a hot dog and what is candy really made of. I make them aware of how they are always hungry an hour or two after a pasta meal but rarely after a well balanced meal. I planted seeds and we watched them grow and tasted our produce with and without salt, accompanying other foods and decide what tastes better with what.
There were some meals where nothing seemed to work, so they ate a hefty serve of rice or potatoes, but with a bit of persistence they have learned to introduce almost everything into their diet, they even ate a mushroom and a brussell sprout each the other night, without complaining. They ask me to make salads and flavoursome soups now, of course they still always ask for pancakes or burgers and I've heard them coaching their cousins about trying new foods, because they have learned that life is so much more interesting when your taste buds aren't boring or afraid of new flavours.
Four things I did to introduce new foods.
1) Make a dish they have learned to love. The day before I make them something they never used to like but now do. I reminded them how they used to hate it, and praise their maturing taste buds. "When you were babies you only liked milk, now you are growing up and enjoy lots of new foods"... I encourage a conversation about the first time they tried something and the first time they liked it. I remind them that the food is the same as always but their taste buds are different. I promised them that we only make them eat healthy, fresh food because we love them. If we didn't care about them we would let them eat all the rubbish they wanted and they would end up being unhealthy and most likely unhappy adults. I shared a few 'little known facts' based on my own experiences, like you only have to try a food 17 times before your taste buds learn to love it. The kids love reporting that they like a food before the 17th taste, though we never really keep count. It goes something like this. Child says "Ida I love celery now and I have only tasted it 9 times." I say "wow you are growing up fast, soon you'll be asking me to cook mushrooms!"
 |
| Thanks Keli Nina Perkins |
Add lots of salt and/or sugar. If your kids love fast food and highly processed rubbish, all the real flavours come from salt and sugar. I add extra salt to new dishes and let them add more salt, until I'm sure all they can really taste is the salt. Of course each time I cook the dish again I add more of what we like and a lot less salt. One chilli seed at a time (not the whole chilli) to build a tolerance. I introduce new flavours slowly, for example, I chop or wipe onion or garlic over the board then chop the other vegetables, so the subtle flavour of onion is on everything but you can't see it, then occasionally a few finely chopped pieces make it in to the dish... oops! It took a little time but now I don't have to keep onion in a separate dish for the adults, we all eat onion in our salad.
Keep them a little bit hungry and they are more likely to eat a new dish. This,I learned from a Grandmother who raised her 9 children, on a farm by herself after her husband died in his early forties. Serve a small breakfast and lunch and no snacks throughout the day. When the mid afternoon munchies arrive I offer them some water, if they don't want water then they are not really thirsty or hungry. If they are 'starving' I remind them that poor kids are lucky if they eat once a day, and they will survive the two hours until dinner time just fine. No sweet drinks on the table, but plenty of water (for all that extra salt!). Prepare the new food alongside a small portion of one their favourites. Give them too many choices and they are not going to try something new. They are more likely to taste and appreciate a new food if they are hungry. I also encourage them to help me in the kitchen and do little taste tests along the way.
Give them information. What makes people unhealthy and fat, what vitamins make people's bodies grow strong, brains smarter and skin glow? What is really in a hot dog and what is candy really made of. I make them aware of how they are always hungry an hour or two after a pasta meal but rarely after a well balanced meal. I planted seeds and we watched them grow and tasted our produce with and without salt, accompanying other foods and decide what tastes better with what.
There were some meals where nothing seemed to work, so they ate a hefty serve of rice or potatoes, but with a bit of persistence they have learned to introduce almost everything into their diet, they even ate a mushroom and a brussell sprout each the other night, without complaining. They ask me to make salads and flavoursome soups now, of course they still always ask for pancakes or burgers and I've heard them coaching their cousins about trying new foods, because they have learned that life is so much more interesting when your taste buds aren't boring or afraid of new flavours.
Amongst other things, this is a love story.... the theme changes occasionally... this year it is fitness and learning to love yourself.
Monday, 19 August 2013
Dog or no dog?
Reasons for and against and what type of dog.
I need to exercise. I feel obliged to take a dog out for a walk, but I don't honour myself the same way. Coming to terms with that might make a difference, one day.
It's hard enough work looking after house plants.
We go on at least two long holidays every year. One is usually local that could include the dog. The other is international, travelling with a dog is out of the question.
The children's Mum and Grandparents have agreed that they can keep the dog at their houses when we are away.
Regardless of how much the children want a dog I will end up being it's primary carer. I was aware of this before I planted the seed-
Vet bills, grooming and the necessary accessories are expensive.
We can't securely fence our property. It snows in Winter here. Whether it's for toileting or walking, like it or not, the dog will have to be accompanied when it's let out. (Refer to point 1, this could also be an advantage).
It has to be an older dog. There are plenty that need new homes. It's fun to play with and train a puppy but dogs live a long time. Small dogs can live for 18 years, ask a child to imagine still taking care of the dog when they are 30 years old. Also older dogs are likely to be toilet trained. Do you think it's cruel or wise to consider that an older dogs lifespan fits in better with our future plans of possibly moving overseas?
It needs to be a small dog (not to small because the snow can get deep here) but big dogs means big poo, and I will enjoy daily or twice daily short walks, but I couldn't exercise a large dog properly.
We live by a fjord and a forest with great walking paths, but there are no designated leash free play areas in this town (or Denmark in general), this doesn't seem to be a problem to other dog owners I have spoken to, but I think it's mean.
After my last dog died I said I wouldn't get another one- I also said I wanted to be an eccentric old writer that lived in my tiny apartment in a big city, be single forever and never have children. I have since become engaged to a man with two boys, and moved to a provincial town (on the other side of the world). I'm guessing that I was probably wrong about the dog too.
We met a man the other night who says his friend has a poodle that needs a new home. We should know by the end of the week if we are the right people for that dog. There is also a 6 year old long haired daschund, named Buster, that has been living in a kennel for over a month because his owner is sick. We will visit him a visit too.
This is not going to be an easy decision. I will weigh up the pros and cons and eventually do what feels right.
I need to exercise. I feel obliged to take a dog out for a walk, but I don't honour myself the same way. Coming to terms with that might make a difference, one day.
It's hard enough work looking after house plants.
We go on at least two long holidays every year. One is usually local that could include the dog. The other is international, travelling with a dog is out of the question.
The children's Mum and Grandparents have agreed that they can keep the dog at their houses when we are away.
Regardless of how much the children want a dog I will end up being it's primary carer. I was aware of this before I planted the seed-
Vet bills, grooming and the necessary accessories are expensive.
We can't securely fence our property. It snows in Winter here. Whether it's for toileting or walking, like it or not, the dog will have to be accompanied when it's let out. (Refer to point 1, this could also be an advantage).
It has to be an older dog. There are plenty that need new homes. It's fun to play with and train a puppy but dogs live a long time. Small dogs can live for 18 years, ask a child to imagine still taking care of the dog when they are 30 years old. Also older dogs are likely to be toilet trained. Do you think it's cruel or wise to consider that an older dogs lifespan fits in better with our future plans of possibly moving overseas?
It needs to be a small dog (not to small because the snow can get deep here) but big dogs means big poo, and I will enjoy daily or twice daily short walks, but I couldn't exercise a large dog properly.
We live by a fjord and a forest with great walking paths, but there are no designated leash free play areas in this town (or Denmark in general), this doesn't seem to be a problem to other dog owners I have spoken to, but I think it's mean.
After my last dog died I said I wouldn't get another one- I also said I wanted to be an eccentric old writer that lived in my tiny apartment in a big city, be single forever and never have children. I have since become engaged to a man with two boys, and moved to a provincial town (on the other side of the world). I'm guessing that I was probably wrong about the dog too.
We met a man the other night who says his friend has a poodle that needs a new home. We should know by the end of the week if we are the right people for that dog. There is also a 6 year old long haired daschund, named Buster, that has been living in a kennel for over a month because his owner is sick. We will visit him a visit too.
This is not going to be an easy decision. I will weigh up the pros and cons and eventually do what feels right.
Amongst other things, this is a love story.... the theme changes occasionally... this year it is fitness and learning to love yourself.
Friday, 16 August 2013
A comedy duo. #Australia's got Talent, #Dash and D'Bree
Dash and D'Bree, are like a cross between Patsy and Edína from Absolutely Fabulous and and Kath and Kim the iconic female comedy duo from Australia. Their dedication to their dream is starting to pay off, and I want to support them. You can find out more about their origins on Dash and D'Bree's website. They are friends of mine, talented, intelligent, and provide an interesting insight into the attitudes and minds of the post X-generation. I can't remember what that generation is called... Is it the, I want to be famous and I'm not afraid to make you know why I think I should be famous generation. Dash and D'Bree are shop assistants that want to be famous and aren't afraid to reveal some youth truths as well as try and make everybody look and be as fabulous as they are.
Here''s a link to some of their uploaded videos, where you can see lessons in walking like a model, tv performances, stage shows, singing and other productions.
Their performance on Australia's got talent gave birth to the idea of a television show, the judges loved them and Danni Minogue said she just wants to hang out with them.
Check out the clap rap video from their first audition.. (Did you spot me smiling in the audience?)
Here's a link to their facebook page...
and their twitter is here https://twitter.com/dashanddbree
They are in the process of raising some money for a new web series. This is a rags to riches story I want to see come true. I believe they only need a few hundred dollars to reach their modest goal. This a shout out to them and their hard work, the world will be a funnier place if more people meet their talent. Even if you have absolutely no intention of handing over a single cent, click on the link for a taste of their humour and skill, and like or join their fb or twitter. I love their 'you can't say that' comedy a lot, mostly because they do say and even sing about it.
Click here if you want to learn more about their appeal.
Here''s a link to some of their uploaded videos, where you can see lessons in walking like a model, tv performances, stage shows, singing and other productions.
Their performance on Australia's got talent gave birth to the idea of a television show, the judges loved them and Danni Minogue said she just wants to hang out with them.
Check out the clap rap video from their first audition.. (Did you spot me smiling in the audience?)
Here's a link to their facebook page...
and their twitter is here https://twitter.com/dashanddbree
Click here if you want to learn more about their appeal.
Amongst other things, this is a love story.... the theme changes occasionally... this year it is fitness and learning to love yourself.
Wednesday, 14 August 2013
When Abstinence becomes Indulgence.
I have mastered the art of indulgence and rarely chosen, or adhered to, abstinence. So I used my ability to twist things around in order to make sense of it all and asked myself how to make abstinence an indulgence?
Instead of indulging an insatiable appetite The Captain and I have abstained from re-filling our plates with 'left overs' and started indulging a desire to be healthier and happier.
Abstaining from late night television and cuddling on the sofa means we have indulged in more sleep and better moods.
Abstaining from pasta and potatoes means we have indulged in more colourful vegetables, beans and salads.
Abstaining from sugar has re-introduced fruit as a naturally sweet indulgence.
Abstaining from extra salt means indulging in herbs and spices.
Abstained from spoiling each other with immobilising treats, indulge in long walks in the forest.
Abstain from back hunching hours on the computer, indulge in lengthening stretches that give birth to long forgotten endorphins. .
Abstain from a sedative lifestyle, indulge in skipping ropes and racing heart beats.
Abstain from wasting money, save instead for indulgent holidays.
Abstain from talking too much, indulge in words of new stories you hear.
Abstain from controlling, indulge in spontaneity, at times it's the other way round.
Abstain from criticising yourself and begin to indulge a desire to be loved - by you.
The Captain saw 14 shooting starts last night, I asked him if he wished my wish, be fit. He answered if that will make you happier then I wished it 14 times.
This from the man that loves decadent meals.
Me: What, no cheese?
Him: Not today.
Me: I bought you a present.
Him: Chocolate?
Me: No. A skipping rope.
Him: *finds you tube clip on how to skip rope - starts skipping*
Me: *Wipes dust off my rope.*
This from the Captain, after a night shift, whose favourite dock has always been his own bed.
Me: It's windy and raining, perfect day to spend in bed.
Him: Mmm - I'll make you a coffee but you have to be dressed by 11.00. We're going for a walk.
Complaining is an indulgence I might just abstain from too.
Instead of indulging an insatiable appetite The Captain and I have abstained from re-filling our plates with 'left overs' and started indulging a desire to be healthier and happier.
Abstaining from late night television and cuddling on the sofa means we have indulged in more sleep and better moods.
Abstaining from pasta and potatoes means we have indulged in more colourful vegetables, beans and salads.
Abstaining from sugar has re-introduced fruit as a naturally sweet indulgence.
Abstaining from extra salt means indulging in herbs and spices.
Abstained from spoiling each other with immobilising treats, indulge in long walks in the forest.
Abstain from back hunching hours on the computer, indulge in lengthening stretches that give birth to long forgotten endorphins. .
Abstain from a sedative lifestyle, indulge in skipping ropes and racing heart beats.
Abstain from wasting money, save instead for indulgent holidays.
Abstain from talking too much, indulge in words of new stories you hear.
Abstain from controlling, indulge in spontaneity, at times it's the other way round.
Abstain from criticising yourself and begin to indulge a desire to be loved - by you.
***
The Captain saw 14 shooting starts last night, I asked him if he wished my wish, be fit. He answered if that will make you happier then I wished it 14 times.
***
This from the man that loves decadent meals.
Me: What, no cheese?
Him: Not today.
***
Me: I bought you a present.
Him: Chocolate?
Me: No. A skipping rope.
Him: *finds you tube clip on how to skip rope - starts skipping*
Me: *Wipes dust off my rope.*
***
This from the Captain, after a night shift, whose favourite dock has always been his own bed.
Me: It's windy and raining, perfect day to spend in bed.
Him: Mmm - I'll make you a coffee but you have to be dressed by 11.00. We're going for a walk.
Complaining is an indulgence I might just abstain from too.
Amongst other things, this is a love story.... the theme changes occasionally... this year it is fitness and learning to love yourself.
Monday, 12 August 2013
The Anti-Blogfest Gary Fest
Anti-Blogfest Gary Fest!
In honour of Gary (and special mention to Penny the Jack Russell dog and modest internet superstar) Gary at Klahanie is many things including lover of animals, enchanted forests and humans, especially the people that live outside of society's perfectly formed cubes. He is courteous, wise, funny and one of the first bloggers to make me feel welcome in blogland. If you visit him and share his virtues you will be welcomed too. He also whinges a lot, about blog hops and blogfests especially the #atozchallenge which he anti-supports to such a great extent that I am sure many people have joined the challenge just because of him...
This is the Anti-blogfest Gary Fest, created in his honour for (i'm guessing here) '(less) shits and (more) giggles' and is hosted by:
Mark "Madman" Koopmans
Ninja Captain Alex J. Cavanaugh
Rockin' Robyn Engel
Life is good Tina
Morgan Shamy.
The rules: Create the titles of three PG-13 blogfests you would never join and then add a descriptive sentence or two
This is the Anti-blogfest Gary Fest, created in his honour for (i'm guessing here) '(less) shits and (more) giggles' and is hosted by:
1. Abstinence and Celibacy blogfest. No blogging for one month - not even a 'this is not an official post' posts - and no reflections post or you will be disqualified from participating for up to 3 years depending on length of the post and how much you whined. Also taking holiday's doesn't count.
2. The look at moi look at moi i'm so great and have really really great products i want you to buy and i don't care how great you think you are just read my blog and buy my products and leave a comment so everyone can see that you think i'm great too.......but don't expect me to reply to your comment or even read your blog and there is no way i will ever comment on your blog .......ever..... but I will email you and try to sell my products.....grammar anarchy blogfest. Rule number one: the only acceptable punctuation is lots of ellipses. Rule number two: Just read my blog and buy my stuff.
3. The A to Z bigot list. Lists must be in alphabetical order: you may choose one minority group and list 26 things you hate about them, or 26 minority groups and one thing you hate about them. Technical point... there are more women than men on the planet so they are no longer a minority group.
***
So there they are, 3 blogfests I would never join and I am sure Gary would never promote... though I'm thinking grammar anarchy on it's own would be one he might support in it's own right. Check out his blog here, I never know what to expect but I'm always glad that I took the time to read something he or Penny wrote.
Dear Gary I hope you have fun on your day.
I wish I knew how to add the linky list to my post... check out the hosts pages to see the list of other participants
Amongst other things, this is a love story.... the theme changes occasionally... this year it is fitness and learning to love yourself.
Friday, 9 August 2013
NaNoBloPo - Didn't hot used to mean stolen?
I have to admit that while NaNoBloPo has give me a reason to blog, the prompts for the 'HOT' theme aren't inspiring me in a positive way. Need I remind you that there are no rules even suggesting that you have to use the prompts, you don't even need a theme to join, so with no-one left to blame, it's time for me to have a positive attitude check. This week's prompts and the reasons I've avoided them are:
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
Would you want to be known as hot?
Would you want to be known as hot?
Admittedly my social life, since moving to Denmark, is somewhat limited to family, classmates and the local pub (which, coincidentally is owned by a fellow Aussie woman, that has lived here for 20 years.) She has become a friend and my mentor and the only reason I visit the pub as often as I do, which isn't often, but I'm on a first name basis with all the regulars! One of them recently asked me why I don't have any tattoo's, because he thinks they are hot. The only part of my body he could see was my wrists and neck. No I don't want to be known as hot. I also don't want to know if the other regulars think I look hot, pregnant... or not, and I tire of the ass and breast comments every time my friend or I wear anything other than wet weather gear or practical uniforms. Paris Hilton popularised the word hot, anything from a car to a baby is labelled hot, once upon a time a hot car meant jail time. Hot or Not is what stops me leaving the house some days, I can't be bothered putting on a costume and my house clothes are either too hot (i.e very little) or just too daggy to be seen by the general public, some people would think me walking around the house without a bra on is hot, others will shudder at the image. I don't want to know if anyone thinks I'm hot or not, but I love that the Captain thinks I'm beautiful.
Wednesday, August 7, 2013
Is someone hot forever once they're labeled hot? Or is hotness fleeting?
Is someone hot forever once they're labeled hot? Or is hotness fleeting?
Ok so Sophia Loren is hot, isn't she? Are great weddings hot even after the marriage has fallen apart? Are couple's hot for getting back together or is never breaking apart even hotter, what about those cold nights? Is it hot to be liked by everyone, does that make any of us hot? I guess the easiest way to answer this question is to keep asking questions.
Thursday, August 8, 2013
Gina Lollobrigida declared 40 "hot." What do you think is the "hottest" age for women?
Gina Lollobrigida declared 40 "hot." What do you think is the "hottest" age for women?
Her image is hot...but I can't even picture that now. She was an actress right? I'm guessing she has dark hair and if I google her I'm sure I can find a photo of her in a red dress. I think every woman has potential to look her best towards the end of every decade, energetically by mid-late 20's, 30's, 40's etc, we have embraced a decade of change and released the fear of getting a decade older. We haven't started worrying about the looming next decade yet, the peak has been reached. Gina Lollobrigida must be hot because the last three letters of her name are.
Friday, August 9, 2013
How is a red hot second different from a regular second?
How is a red hot second different from a regular second?
More questions. Were you closer to first or third? It's still second. Second in charge (2ic). I am a two person, born on the second, and my initials are IC. I am an natural 2ic. If hot meant funny I would think that's hot.
Ok, maybe I have been in a 'not so positive' mood all week, but I really think that these questions require too much thought or they are just so cliche and simple, that I couldn't be bothered putting too much thought into them. On the other hand there isn't much thinking going on around here about anything else I could be writing, so I procrastinated then ended up doing the prompts. Hopefully there is a shift next week.
If my surprise visitor on wednesday night was any indication, then there are going to be some changes on the way.
My surprise visitor flew silently into the house after midnight, at first I thought it was a large moth. The second time it flew past I thought it was a very quiet bird. By the time I woke up the Captain and he stood up, we both realised it was a bat. In many cultures Bat is a symbol of rebirth.
 |
| Thanks domrador. |
Amongst other things, this is a love story.... the theme changes occasionally... this year it is fitness and learning to love yourself.
Monday, 5 August 2013
What makes a woman hot? NaNoBloPo
Today's prompt for NaNoBloPo is What make a woman hot?
Well all I can think of for now is how hot I was on Friday night at a double 40th birthday party I was at. It was over 30 degrees, no air conditioning and no sign of a cool change as the night heated up. I was wearing a black outfit and yellow shoes, the Captain thought I looked hot but he is incredibly biased. There was lots of hotties partying all through the night. It was so hot the next morning I decided to have a nap on the hammock outside because it was just too hot to sleep inside.
Other hot things on my radar this past month have been:
My friends Ode to Aphrodite facebook page, it's for the wild woman at heart.
The 2011 movie Hysteria that I watched the other night.
A fascinating article or blog post about the wisdom of females, their genitals and the etymology of the terribly misused C word.
This clip about the first female runner in the Boston Marathon
and another clip that has been doing the rounds on facebook recently.
Reclaiming power, facing changes, overcoming challenges all these things are hot, and curry, which happens to be simmering on the stove right now, the Captain is pouring the wine and it smells ready to eat, so ciao for now.
Well all I can think of for now is how hot I was on Friday night at a double 40th birthday party I was at. It was over 30 degrees, no air conditioning and no sign of a cool change as the night heated up. I was wearing a black outfit and yellow shoes, the Captain thought I looked hot but he is incredibly biased. There was lots of hotties partying all through the night. It was so hot the next morning I decided to have a nap on the hammock outside because it was just too hot to sleep inside.
Other hot things on my radar this past month have been:
My friends Ode to Aphrodite facebook page, it's for the wild woman at heart.
The 2011 movie Hysteria that I watched the other night.
A fascinating article or blog post about the wisdom of females, their genitals and the etymology of the terribly misused C word.
This clip about the first female runner in the Boston Marathon
and another clip that has been doing the rounds on facebook recently.
Reclaiming power, facing changes, overcoming challenges all these things are hot, and curry, which happens to be simmering on the stove right now, the Captain is pouring the wine and it smells ready to eat, so ciao for now.
Amongst other things, this is a love story.... the theme changes occasionally... this year it is fitness and learning to love yourself.
Sunday, 4 August 2013
Have you ever Nano...ed?
In November 2012 I became a Nanowrimo winner for the first time... google it if you are interesting in finally committing to a writing a novel, the goal is to write fifty thousand words in a month. Many people have successfully published books as a result of their Nano efforts, and it opened up a whole new world to me.
I never get tired of them, though I know he would love to get more creative eventually.
Friday, August 2, 2013
How do you like to warm up when you're cold?
I am already a day or three behind. There are prompts here, if you choose to follow the prompts the theme is hot, otherwise you can write about whatever you want, it appears weekends are not counted. There doesn't seem to be any rules or regulations, just some usual blog hop courtesies etc...
The first two prompts are...
Thursday, August 1, 2013
Do you like hot drinks such as coffee and tea?
Do you like hot drinks such as coffee and tea?
Yes and Yes. I love coffee so much that I get annoyed if it isn't made properly. I am yet to taste a well made cafe latte in Denmark, unlike France and Melbourne my hometown has a great reputation for perfect coffee. I like espresso too, no sugar thanks. The Captain makes me coffee with steamy, frothy milk shaped loved hearts on them.
I never get tired of them, though I know he would love to get more creative eventually.
Friday, August 2, 2013
How do you like to warm up when you're cold?
I never understood what really cold was before I moved so close close to the north pole. In these parts of the world nothing quite warms you up as good as sensible layering of clothes and the famous Danish coffee punch. Warning I did not say it tastes good. Strong black coffee, two spoons of sugar and a generous dollop of Danish Akvavit (a herbal infused vodka type liqueur). The new floor heating and a hot spa bath downstairs works wonders too!
That's it for now see you Monday
Amongst other things, this is a love story.... the theme changes occasionally... this year it is fitness and learning to love yourself.
Saturday, 27 July 2013
Insert interesting title here... #tomorrowland
Insert interesting post here.
Followed by a majestic photo.
Present interesting points with humour and wisdom.
Conclude with a philosophical or broader outlook.
Ask an empathic question that reflects my own struggles and/or understanding.
Acknowledge potential comments that will either affirm values and beliefs or simply provide a connection with people you care about and haven't forgotten.
Smile, remember that misery, confusion and sensory overload is better than denial.
Sometimes a day at the beach turns into a summer holiday, other times it just means sand in your sandwich.
End with an original and unexpected quote, that may or may not be relevant. Smile again.
Escape to Tomorrowland (online) for the weekend. Sing, dance, burn some calories and replenish the rhythm...
http://www.tomorrowlandradio.com/ ... Ministry of Sound UK can put you in the mood before the live show kicks off from Midday til 1am, Belgium time.
You tube Channel link... a little annoying with all the ads, but fun to watch while you listen live on one of the many radio stations all around the world. Have you ever been to a dance or music festival? Some of my most magical memories are of dancing with friends and strangers...
Now the weekend has come to an end here's a few links that have been published around the net.. but if you google tommorowland 2013 you will find more...
one of my favourites... Armin Van Buuren.. I saw him do a live set for 9 hours in Melbourne a few years ago... it was incredible
here's a good list of several other artists performances...
http://fistintheair.com/2013/07/28/tomorrowland-2013-live-sets/
All the best
Ida
Followed by a majestic photo.
Present interesting points with humour and wisdom.
Conclude with a philosophical or broader outlook.
Ask an empathic question that reflects my own struggles and/or understanding.
Acknowledge potential comments that will either affirm values and beliefs or simply provide a connection with people you care about and haven't forgotten.
Smile, remember that misery, confusion and sensory overload is better than denial.
Sometimes a day at the beach turns into a summer holiday, other times it just means sand in your sandwich.
End with an original and unexpected quote, that may or may not be relevant. Smile again.
Escape to Tomorrowland (online) for the weekend. Sing, dance, burn some calories and replenish the rhythm...
http://www.tomorrowlandradio.com/ ... Ministry of Sound UK can put you in the mood before the live show kicks off from Midday til 1am, Belgium time.
You tube Channel link... a little annoying with all the ads, but fun to watch while you listen live on one of the many radio stations all around the world. Have you ever been to a dance or music festival? Some of my most magical memories are of dancing with friends and strangers...
Now the weekend has come to an end here's a few links that have been published around the net.. but if you google tommorowland 2013 you will find more...
one of my favourites... Armin Van Buuren.. I saw him do a live set for 9 hours in Melbourne a few years ago... it was incredible
here's a good list of several other artists performances...
http://fistintheair.com/2013/07/28/tomorrowland-2013-live-sets/
All the best
Ida
Amongst other things, this is a love story.... the theme changes occasionally... this year it is fitness and learning to love yourself.
Tuesday, 25 June 2013
Personality versus Skills
How many times have you worked somewhere and thought you could do better than your bosses? Maybe you watched people with less experience beat you into positions you deserved, or maybe you just felt you missed out because you didn't look the part, too short, too fat, too sexy, too *insert nationality or colour of skin here.* Or maybe the opposite is true, have you ever scored a job because you charmed your way through the interview?
Yesterday I scored 100% for my Danish oral exam. I usually do well in exams. Í am accustomed to distinctions, high distinctions and have even won a few achievements and memorial awards. I know how to give the assessors what they want, but this perfect score came as a surprise to me.
It certainly comes as no surprise, to anybody that knows me, that I did particularly well on an oral exam... "She can talk with a mouth full of marbles under water, talkative, have a chat and, does she ever take a breath" are sentences I have heard often...at least until I moved to country where I needed to learn a new language and listening became more important than talking. I still share my views but with far fewer words, because I'm really not that good at Danish yet.
I have trouble pronouncing the difference between U and Y (a vowel in Danish) which to an untrained ear sound exactly the same. Then there is there 3 extra vowels, Å. which sounds (to me) like O, Æ which sounds like the A in way, and Ø which should be classified as Denmark's biggest natural disaster...and the source of many 'rød grød med fløde' jokes...
It's not easy.
They Danes swallow their d's, g's and v's and r's which makes it impossible to hear the difference between syv, (seven) syg (sick), syd (south), or sy (sew)...because they all sound like soo.
I know I made the assessor laugh a few times, I used all my acting abilities to act natural, and like many danes, I uuummed and aaahed a lot between words and sentences, a tactic to try and stretch the time and find forgotten words. I chose a subject I am familiar with and had memorized my talk, but there were questions and diagrams I hadn't seen that I had to describe and discuss... and I know there were grammatical errors. At one point I completely forgot the words for advantage and disadvantage, so I talked about both the the positives and negatives of the advantages and disadvantages...and talked and talked and talked. The only question the assessor asked me was if I was a Doctor or medically trained?
I would have been proud if I scored a pass, and impressed if I scored anything above 60%, my accent is thick, my grammar is atrocious. I put adverbs in the wrong place and mess up tenses all the time. I forget words and just can't get my mouth around some of the really long words... 100% feels like I cheated, that I fooled the assessor into believing something that I'm not, and now my Danish friends and family think my perfect score means I can speak and understand perfect Danish. I'm afraid Danglish will have to suffice for a while longer. 100% is not a true reflection of my language skills, but perhaps it's a true reflection of two of my other favourite skills, the arts of acting and communication...and of course I have to give some credit to my fabulous teachers.
I am truly baffled by the results, getting more than I deserved, the opposite of being cheated but the feeling is very similar. The relief that it is all over and knowing I can go forth and enjoy a stress free Summer makes it easy to move on and just be grateful.
Yesterday I scored 100% for my Danish oral exam. I usually do well in exams. Í am accustomed to distinctions, high distinctions and have even won a few achievements and memorial awards. I know how to give the assessors what they want, but this perfect score came as a surprise to me.
It certainly comes as no surprise, to anybody that knows me, that I did particularly well on an oral exam... "She can talk with a mouth full of marbles under water, talkative, have a chat and, does she ever take a breath" are sentences I have heard often...at least until I moved to country where I needed to learn a new language and listening became more important than talking. I still share my views but with far fewer words, because I'm really not that good at Danish yet.
I have trouble pronouncing the difference between U and Y (a vowel in Danish) which to an untrained ear sound exactly the same. Then there is there 3 extra vowels, Å. which sounds (to me) like O, Æ which sounds like the A in way, and Ø which should be classified as Denmark's biggest natural disaster...and the source of many 'rød grød med fløde' jokes...
It's not easy.
They Danes swallow their d's, g's and v's and r's which makes it impossible to hear the difference between syv, (seven) syg (sick), syd (south), or sy (sew)...because they all sound like soo.
I know I made the assessor laugh a few times, I used all my acting abilities to act natural, and like many danes, I uuummed and aaahed a lot between words and sentences, a tactic to try and stretch the time and find forgotten words. I chose a subject I am familiar with and had memorized my talk, but there were questions and diagrams I hadn't seen that I had to describe and discuss... and I know there were grammatical errors. At one point I completely forgot the words for advantage and disadvantage, so I talked about both the the positives and negatives of the advantages and disadvantages...and talked and talked and talked. The only question the assessor asked me was if I was a Doctor or medically trained?
I would have been proud if I scored a pass, and impressed if I scored anything above 60%, my accent is thick, my grammar is atrocious. I put adverbs in the wrong place and mess up tenses all the time. I forget words and just can't get my mouth around some of the really long words... 100% feels like I cheated, that I fooled the assessor into believing something that I'm not, and now my Danish friends and family think my perfect score means I can speak and understand perfect Danish. I'm afraid Danglish will have to suffice for a while longer. 100% is not a true reflection of my language skills, but perhaps it's a true reflection of two of my other favourite skills, the arts of acting and communication...and of course I have to give some credit to my fabulous teachers.
I am truly baffled by the results, getting more than I deserved, the opposite of being cheated but the feeling is very similar. The relief that it is all over and knowing I can go forth and enjoy a stress free Summer makes it easy to move on and just be grateful.
Amongst other things, this is a love story.... the theme changes occasionally... this year it is fitness and learning to love yourself.
Saturday, 8 June 2013
Exams, endings and where's my birthday?
Apart from stress and judgment, exams are symbolic of change. They represent endings, new beginnings, uncertainty. It's no wonder we had a couple of classroom battles in the last month. I have one more Danish exam on the 24th of June (happy birthday Sis) and so far I've passed the reading and writing. I can watch and read news in Danish, have conversations with my bonus kids and the Captains family, and even manage a joke or two at the local bar now, but I still don't consider myself fluent. When I have a client sitting in the chair, I still have to point to parts of the body, or struggle with metaphors because we're not taught the names of internal organs, foot bones or complex emotional reactions in danish classes.
I've decided to keep learning Danish by studying 10th grade Biology and Psychology. The local school is a wonderful modern building with a great atmosphere and plenty of teachers I'll enjoy keeping in contact with. This decision is both a learning and networking opportunity and being close to home, it's a great excuse for a walk through the forest two days a week. Ironically, even though I have studied both subjects at more advanced levels, I never studied them in high school - what you resist persists.
The classes will provide me with more words, more language, more inspiration. Do you think the kids will benefit from learning about nature and the mind with a therapist and ex-nurse in their class? Learning a new language has made me wish I studied so many more things. How cool would it be to know everything a linguist or anthropologist knows. My WIP has an anthropologist in it. My next book, perhaps a linguist, I can learn through my characters, what fun.
I am no stranger to exams in the heat of Summer, but I am a stranger to the end of the year being in June. In Australia we grow up knowing about school years ending mid year in America and Europe, and it's a strange concept. The end of the year for us meant the start of Summer holidays, as well as preparing for Christmas, celebrating the new year, advancing a level in school and for me, born in January, I also turned another year older, that's a lot of new beginnings neatly packed together.
Summer in June and Christmas in Winter is wonderful, but I don't think I'll ever get used to my birthday being in Winter and the year not starting with a long holiday. A break in the middle of the year, in summer, is perfect though. People can afford, or have time to go on holidays because it's not Christmas. The best of both worlds would be Summer at the end of the year and Christmas in the middle, or the other way around, just not together.
After 3 years I have acclimatised to the Scandinavian heat and can feel 'warmth' in the cold night breezes. Midsummer is celebrated on the 23rd of June, Sankt-hans-aften (St Johns Eve), the equinox or summer solstice, some say it is the official start of summer. Bonfires with witches on top are burned along coasts and waterways, all over Scandinavia. The days feel like they are getting longer but in reality they start to get shorter, the golden fields of canola are ready to be harvested, the blossoms have been replaced, and the vibrant greens that seemed to arrive so late will soon change to brown again. Queen Bernadotte of Sweden once said that there are only two seasons in Scandinavia, a white winter and a green winter.
Despite the icy cold waters and chilly nights, I think my missing birthday is the main reason it never really feels like summer here. This year, some of my friend's are visiting from Australia, (I've told them to pack some warm clothes). I'm starting a 'non' birthday barbecue tradition. Everyone should have a Summer birthday at least once in their lives, or celebrate festivals outside of their normal timezone, pretending works too.
The final photos for the day are some funny business the locals pointed out to me yesterday, quite literally in the center of town. Here's the plant box.
Does anyone recognise the plant in the middle?
Did you know there is a Freetown in Copenhagen called Christania? It's like a permanent hippie festival in the middle of the city, and it's main street is called Pusher Street, no need to guess why.
I've decided to keep learning Danish by studying 10th grade Biology and Psychology. The local school is a wonderful modern building with a great atmosphere and plenty of teachers I'll enjoy keeping in contact with. This decision is both a learning and networking opportunity and being close to home, it's a great excuse for a walk through the forest two days a week. Ironically, even though I have studied both subjects at more advanced levels, I never studied them in high school - what you resist persists.
The classes will provide me with more words, more language, more inspiration. Do you think the kids will benefit from learning about nature and the mind with a therapist and ex-nurse in their class? Learning a new language has made me wish I studied so many more things. How cool would it be to know everything a linguist or anthropologist knows. My WIP has an anthropologist in it. My next book, perhaps a linguist, I can learn through my characters, what fun.
I am no stranger to exams in the heat of Summer, but I am a stranger to the end of the year being in June. In Australia we grow up knowing about school years ending mid year in America and Europe, and it's a strange concept. The end of the year for us meant the start of Summer holidays, as well as preparing for Christmas, celebrating the new year, advancing a level in school and for me, born in January, I also turned another year older, that's a lot of new beginnings neatly packed together.
 |
| 3am, sky doesn't get fully dark in summer |
 |
| Sunrise at 4.30am |
After 3 years I have acclimatised to the Scandinavian heat and can feel 'warmth' in the cold night breezes. Midsummer is celebrated on the 23rd of June, Sankt-hans-aften (St Johns Eve), the equinox or summer solstice, some say it is the official start of summer. Bonfires with witches on top are burned along coasts and waterways, all over Scandinavia. The days feel like they are getting longer but in reality they start to get shorter, the golden fields of canola are ready to be harvested, the blossoms have been replaced, and the vibrant greens that seemed to arrive so late will soon change to brown again. Queen Bernadotte of Sweden once said that there are only two seasons in Scandinavia, a white winter and a green winter.
 |
| sunset on Mariager Fjord |
The final photos for the day are some funny business the locals pointed out to me yesterday, quite literally in the center of town. Here's the plant box.
Does anyone recognise the plant in the middle?
Did you know there is a Freetown in Copenhagen called Christania? It's like a permanent hippie festival in the middle of the city, and it's main street is called Pusher Street, no need to guess why.
Amongst other things, this is a love story.... the theme changes occasionally... this year it is fitness and learning to love yourself.
Tuesday, 21 May 2013
Test are Tests
I have officially lived in Denmark 3 years and one day. Today I have my final Danish exam. I'm lucky I have two passports, Australian and Italian, so the strict rules for immigration don't apply to me because technically I am an EU citizen. I am grateful for this little bureaucratic blunder, but I also think it's unfair, that other women in my class, just like me, might get kicked out of the country if they don't pass this test.
It's a lovely language, but I underestimated how hard a new language for a 40 year old brain would be, especially because Danish generally has no real hard and fast grammar rules, and at least 40 different vowel sounds that are simply impossible to hear if you are not a native... it's that slight difference between the vowel sound in words like soup and soon... I can barely hear it English and I admit that it is hard, but every Danish person thinks they sound completely different in similar Danish words.
Then there is inversion, perfect sentences written words with wrong places doesn't that make not sense! It's the difference between 'She wanted to leave the party, so I did' or She wanted to leave the party, so did I. One tiny word in the wrong spot changes the outcome... and there is no sign language in a written exam.
Denmark is a tiny land, less than 6 million people speak Danish, it almost seems like a waste of time to learn how to speak it, especially because everyone speaks English, but there really is no better way to understand a culture than to understand the way they speak and thus how their thoughts are formed and strung together...
I can hold a conversation, I can read and write enough to pass a test, but I realise now that it will be something I never stop learning, just like English I guess...
Just to give you a tiny taste of what I am up against, the amount of Danish words is relatively small compared to English but compounding words is very common, according to wiki ''Speciallægepraksisplanlægningsstabiliseringsperiode, which is 51 letters, is the longest Danish word that has been used in an official context. It means "Period of plan stabilising for a specialist doctor's practice,"
Try and get your tongue around that.
Wish me luck, this blog post bought to you by completely avoiding further study, because any and every danish word sounds like french to me right now...
It's a lovely language, but I underestimated how hard a new language for a 40 year old brain would be, especially because Danish generally has no real hard and fast grammar rules, and at least 40 different vowel sounds that are simply impossible to hear if you are not a native... it's that slight difference between the vowel sound in words like soup and soon... I can barely hear it English and I admit that it is hard, but every Danish person thinks they sound completely different in similar Danish words.
Then there is inversion, perfect sentences written words with wrong places doesn't that make not sense! It's the difference between 'She wanted to leave the party, so I did' or She wanted to leave the party, so did I. One tiny word in the wrong spot changes the outcome... and there is no sign language in a written exam.
Denmark is a tiny land, less than 6 million people speak Danish, it almost seems like a waste of time to learn how to speak it, especially because everyone speaks English, but there really is no better way to understand a culture than to understand the way they speak and thus how their thoughts are formed and strung together...
I can hold a conversation, I can read and write enough to pass a test, but I realise now that it will be something I never stop learning, just like English I guess...
Just to give you a tiny taste of what I am up against, the amount of Danish words is relatively small compared to English but compounding words is very common, according to wiki ''Speciallægepraksisplanlægningsstabiliseringsperiode, which is 51 letters, is the longest Danish word that has been used in an official context. It means "Period of plan stabilising for a specialist doctor's practice,"
Try and get your tongue around that.
Wish me luck, this blog post bought to you by completely avoiding further study, because any and every danish word sounds like french to me right now...
Amongst other things, this is a love story.... the theme changes occasionally... this year it is fitness and learning to love yourself.
Wednesday, 15 May 2013
What a wonderful world.
Blogging every day in May challenge: A Day in the life (include photos from throughout your typical day - this could be "a photo an hour" if you'd like)
Keeping this post short and sweet because as soon as the Captain gets home we are heading to the local for a traditional danish meal.
and maybe even a Tuborg
skål - [skoll] or cheers in any language.
Love and laughs
Ida
He spoils me with coffee and love hearts in bed, is there a nicer way to start the day?
I see fields of green, white and yellow too.
Find a happy rock at school - smile and the world smiles with you.
A spot of gardening, check out my lettuce seedlings.
Look out the window and see the Captain sailing towards home :)
Keeping this post short and sweet because as soon as the Captain gets home we are heading to the local for a traditional danish meal.
and maybe even a Tuborg
Love and laughs
Ida
Amongst other things, this is a love story.... the theme changes occasionally... this year it is fitness and learning to love yourself.
Monday, 13 May 2013
A public apology...
Day 13 prompt - Blogging every day in May challenge: Issue a public apology. This can be as funny or as serious or as creative as you want it to be.
I apologise for the name of my blog.
Originally this blog was partly inspired by my reaction to the words of a fellow reflexologist Kevin Kunz, and I wanted it to reflect that the art of reflexology deals with the reactions between the body and reflexes found on the feet, hands, ears and head.
I apologise that it doesn't really mean anything if you don't know the back story.
I apologise that it's a bit of a tongue twister.
I apologise that the title is ambiguous and I want it to mean more than I can be bothered explaining.
I apologise that I am asking you to help me decide whether I should change the name of my blog to 'Ida knows', or 'Ida know' which is a play on the words 'I don't know,' and hopefully reflects that I don't pretend to know everything but what I do know I am certain of, at least until I know different. I'm sorry that I haven't made people give me a dollar every time they said 'I dunno,' when referring to the pronunciation of my name, because I really would be rich, or at least have shouted a few extra rounds in bars all over the world.
I'm sorry if my frank admissions about my own failings and abilities makes you feel insecure or jealous, because that is never my intention, I am sorry that I can't find a way to communicate my intention better, but I really don't understand the language of closed minds.
I am sorry for every time I have lost my temper with people who lose their temper with me or become defensive and rude - especially if they should have just said "I'm sorry." I am sorry that I go on and on or ignore them until I hear those two simple words. My ego wants them to realise how easy it is to say 'I'm sorry,' but some peoples ego's are just so big that they consider an apology to be either beneath them or an admittance of a character flaw, when in fact it's a simple recognition of greater understanding and growth. Many people have become wiser by saying I am sorry and thank you in the same sentence.
I'm sorry that I'm not sorry for hurting or betraying other people, when their beliefs weren't true to me. I simply don't know how to pretend they are right when they are wrong - e.g. bigots.
I apologise for getting frustrated with people that refuse to admit they are wrong. If I was a better person I would be like a lion that doesn't care about the opinions of sheep, but truthfully I love sheep just as much as I love lions and I do care. Deep down I know that sheep are scared of lions even though they are just as valuable and they need love, understanding, education and acceptance too.
I'm sorry I haven't thought of the worlds best song lyrics that changed the world, because I would have changed the world... but maybe I can start with a good blog title.
Cast your votes...
I apologise for the name of my blog.
Originally this blog was partly inspired by my reaction to the words of a fellow reflexologist Kevin Kunz, and I wanted it to reflect that the art of reflexology deals with the reactions between the body and reflexes found on the feet, hands, ears and head.
I apologise that it doesn't really mean anything if you don't know the back story.
I apologise that it's a bit of a tongue twister.
I apologise that the title is ambiguous and I want it to mean more than I can be bothered explaining.
I apologise that I am asking you to help me decide whether I should change the name of my blog to 'Ida knows', or 'Ida know' which is a play on the words 'I don't know,' and hopefully reflects that I don't pretend to know everything but what I do know I am certain of, at least until I know different. I'm sorry that I haven't made people give me a dollar every time they said 'I dunno,' when referring to the pronunciation of my name, because I really would be rich, or at least have shouted a few extra rounds in bars all over the world.
I'm sorry if my frank admissions about my own failings and abilities makes you feel insecure or jealous, because that is never my intention, I am sorry that I can't find a way to communicate my intention better, but I really don't understand the language of closed minds.
I am sorry for every time I have lost my temper with people who lose their temper with me or become defensive and rude - especially if they should have just said "I'm sorry." I am sorry that I go on and on or ignore them until I hear those two simple words. My ego wants them to realise how easy it is to say 'I'm sorry,' but some peoples ego's are just so big that they consider an apology to be either beneath them or an admittance of a character flaw, when in fact it's a simple recognition of greater understanding and growth. Many people have become wiser by saying I am sorry and thank you in the same sentence.
I'm sorry that I'm not sorry for hurting or betraying other people, when their beliefs weren't true to me. I simply don't know how to pretend they are right when they are wrong - e.g. bigots.
I apologise for getting frustrated with people that refuse to admit they are wrong. If I was a better person I would be like a lion that doesn't care about the opinions of sheep, but truthfully I love sheep just as much as I love lions and I do care. Deep down I know that sheep are scared of lions even though they are just as valuable and they need love, understanding, education and acceptance too.
I'm sorry I haven't thought of the worlds best song lyrics that changed the world, because I would have changed the world... but maybe I can start with a good blog title.
Cast your votes...
- Stick to original title - Reflex Reactions
- Ida knows
- Ida know
- Something incredible that you think of...
I am sorry that I don't know for sure if there should there be an apostrophe in knows... Ida know's - Ida knows ??? - don't worry about answering that one - spell check just gave me the answer - but then again - Do you think I can claim poetic licence for using the apostrophe? - Or is it just to ambiguous?
Lots of love and laughs.
Amongst other things, this is a love story.... the theme changes occasionally... this year it is fitness and learning to love yourself.
Monday, 6 May 2013
What do you do?
Day 6, Blogging in May Challenge: If you couldn't answer with your job, how would you answer the question, 'what do you do'?
 |
| Thanks The things we say |
I do smile a lot, apparently. Everybody talks about my smile. Photo's of me smiling are some of the worst I've seen, but people say it makes them happy so I don't really care what I look like. With smiles come laughter it's uncontrollable, unconscious, social and contagious.
I do unravel knots and help people to see new perspectives or re-affirm the ones they have.
I do nice, and not just during natural disasters. I used to think it was easier to be tough.
I do consider the environment, wherever I am.
I do share my thoughts and feelings.
I do love mothers and fathers that aren't my own parents, and children that I haven't given birth to.
I do day to day activities of living, usually weekly, sometimes monthly, sometimes I avoid it or I just forget. I do them when I'm reminded or when I move house. I do try to walk through every door with something in my hand, that belongs where I'm headed.
I do fix things, make things and grow things.
I do always keep an eye out for animals, land, sky and sea. I say 'look over there' and 'did you see that?' a lot.
I do celebrate the truimphs, and console through the trials.
I do lot's of reading.
I do what feels right to me, and if I'm not sure I do ask.
I do love the one I'm with.
I do like to know what you do. I do invite you to share. Is it easy for you to answer what do you do, if you can't answer with your job?
Amongst other things, this is a love story.... the theme changes occasionally... this year it is fitness and learning to love yourself.
Saturday, 4 May 2013
"In three words...
Day 4, Saturday: Favorite quote (from a person, from a book, etc) and why you love it
I recently completed the A to Z blogging challenge in April, it was a rewarding experience and I recommend getting involved, one way or another, in the next one.
The A to Z challenge's only requirement is that each day (except Sundays) you dedicate your post to that days letter, Day 1 = A, Day 2 is B etc... You can choose your own theme, or even not to have one, and it fosters a friendly connection with other bloggers as well as a commitment to post regularly.
If I had to choose one quote from my Quotes post, that resonates with me right now I would find a creative way of showing you that I have to narrow it down to two, which is why I posted an image with Flannery O'Connors quote above and added this one too.
“In three words I can sum up everything I’ve learned about life: It goes on.” – Robert Frost
I'm already thinking of others that could easily take it's place. Check out my Q is for Quotes post for some of my all time favourites. The comments also provide a few extra quotes which are great too.
Go ahead and add your own, you never know who might need to read it, when, how or why but like any good quote, it might just change the direction they were heading in or give them a new perspective. Simple as that.
Happy reading, writing and blogging
Ida
 |
I recently completed the A to Z blogging challenge in April, it was a rewarding experience and I recommend getting involved, one way or another, in the next one.
The A to Z challenge's only requirement is that each day (except Sundays) you dedicate your post to that days letter, Day 1 = A, Day 2 is B etc... You can choose your own theme, or even not to have one, and it fosters a friendly connection with other bloggers as well as a commitment to post regularly.
My theme was Healing with words, and I did 'Q for Quotes', which ties in nicely with Day 4 of the May Challenge prompt. My reflections post provides the links to all the letters in my alphabet challenge and explains more about the whole adventure.
If I had to choose one quote from my Quotes post, that resonates with me right now I would find a creative way of showing you that I have to narrow it down to two, which is why I posted an image with Flannery O'Connors quote above and added this one too.
“In three words I can sum up everything I’ve learned about life: It goes on.” – Robert Frost
I'm already thinking of others that could easily take it's place. Check out my Q is for Quotes post for some of my all time favourites. The comments also provide a few extra quotes which are great too.
Go ahead and add your own, you never know who might need to read it, when, how or why but like any good quote, it might just change the direction they were heading in or give them a new perspective. Simple as that.
Happy reading, writing and blogging
Ida
Amongst other things, this is a love story.... the theme changes occasionally... this year it is fitness and learning to love yourself.
Wednesday, 1 May 2013
Reflections post #atozchallenge. I survived 2013
Over 4500 views... Congratulations the crowds go wild. I am thrilled with the results of the A to Z challenge and the outcome of my theme 'Healing with words', from a deck of Magic Spirit Cards I have loved for (almost) decades. The list of words is here, and includes ones that aren't in the deck because not every letter was represented. Other people have added words to the list too. When I am stuck for blog inspiration I will choose one of them to write about. You too can go to the link and add a word or two if you like.
Now to the the organisers, co-hosts, assistants and helpers of the A to Z Challenge - Thank You. I also enjoyed being one of L.Diane Wolfe's Spunky soldiers Here's the badge to prove it.
This challenge is more than just social interaction, it has changed a very important part of my life, and no doubt created dreams for many hundreds of people.
Would I change anything about this challenge? No
Ok maybe one suggestion. I noticed a few drop outs because of 'too many rules' I don't agree that there are too many, it really can't get much looser - but I loved Klahanie's (aka Gary's) C.B.A approach of doing a post every few days, which included more than one letter. It might be easier for people that have full time lives that drag them away from the home, or stop participating because they feel like they've failed if they miss a post or two. Even though Gary is a grumbler about 'not participating' and is the most active anarchic participant - it might be worth taking note of.
Would I recommend new and/or experienced bloggers to join in? I did and I will.
Would I suggest creating a new email account to keep up to date with posts, comments and replies? Yes
As a novice here's a summary of what happened along the way, as well as the links to all my A to Z 2013 posts - they should open in new windows so click, click away.
Thrilling, first contact with new bloggers, up early - down late... - I read a lot, fast and have dozens of tabs open waiting to be read. I know I can't keep up the pace of today's enthusiasm.
B - B is for Balance
I feel like I'm the first person in the world to post, and need to work out how to sort out comments and replies. Today I received 100's of birthday wishes in my email, for Joanne and Kate, my birthday is next year. Wow Benevolent Bradley at Pass the sour cream did a special post just to teach me how to do links in comments.
C - C is for Clarity
Night owls become early birds, scheduling posts to publish after midnight means I get to wake up to new comments. Fun
D - D is for Dreams
So many many blogs to read... Still trying to work out how to keep track. I want to go back and don't know how to get there - I've offered to be a Spunky Soldier - that's 20 more pages to check
E - E is for Embrace
Felt a warm embrace - It's a great idea to get ahead with posts but try not to accidentally post G instead of E!
F - F is for Freedom
We meet my first character - It's easier to talk about myself - writing about someone else means I have to learn character description building - and for some reason I keep trying to write poems.
G - G is for Grateful
I'm starting to find a few favourite blogs. Greta the grouch grape, and Ermie and his GPS made me smile.
H. H is for Humility
I - I is for Intuition - Healing with words
J - J is for Joy
So sleep deprived, one more post to publish, one more blog to read, one more comment to make, one more reply to answer, 4 hours later... forgot to eat - and do I sleep in late - I'm up at the crack of dawn to continue.
K - K is for Knowledge
At this point I stopped writing a daily reflection.
I changed to the title of the theme from words of change to healing with words.
M M is for Magic
The first post that was determined to be written despite it being nothing like what I had planned.
N - N is for Nothing
A sigh of relief - this poem has wanted attention for a long time.
O - O is for OK, Okay? -
The first letter that wasn't in my deck of cards - Ok seemed an obvious choice and turned out to be a lot of fun.
P - P is for Purpose
The most nerve wracking, a piece of my novel presented for the first time.
Another choice word. Who doesn't love a good quote?
R - R is for Receive -
What a perfect day to receive the first of two Leibster and an Inspiring blogger award, from Me at Scribblings and Brandy at Brandy's bustlings
No not snakes, just so many S words to choose from that includes a sweet and sexy story.
I had no doubt this word would provide some of it's own magic.
Nominated for my 3rd Leibster blog award by the lovely Mary Hill
V - V is for Valid
Away for a few days, this was the last of my ahead of schedule posts.
The last three letters were like the last 3 km's of a marathon. End in sight, not sure how I was going to make it. I knew I could do it, but the energy levels were depleting fast. Through this subconcious haze a miracle happened.
X - X is for XOXO
A letter to a friend, this one was so personal it almost never made it to screen, the most heart felt post.
A contronym that had me confused and a fun word game...
Z - Z is for Zephyr
You think by the time you get to the end of something you have it all figured out, this post was one of those "I feel so stupid but so much smarter now" moments. :)
I have one more blog I have to mention - Miss Bates at Embrace yourself alliterated her way through the whole alphabet. Joining her in this journey has been rewarding. You will need a dictionary for many of her posts, her efforts are even more amazing when you know that English is not her first language... the power of the mind is ineffably incredible.
I'll be keeping my 2014 calendar as free as possible so that I can take on this challenge again. I'm thinking of doing Australian slang for the next one...
In the meantime - I'll be giving myself a pat on the back for a job well done, sorting out the inbox mess I have created, following my inspirations (which could be this May Challenge), checking out yours and Sailing through Spring and Summer. Literally because a friend just lent us his yacht, you should see The Captain's smile...
Lots of love always
Ida
Lots of love always
Ida
***
Add a word to my healing with words of change list here.
Amongst other things, this is a love story.... the theme changes occasionally... this year it is fitness and learning to love yourself.
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