all over the map

February already

2009-02-04T09:53:00.007+09:00

images by Emma Cassi found via Lobster & Swan

February already. Can you believe it? I fell in love with these images. Something about delicate lace, ribbon and vintage papers makes me feel romantic. I connect with delicate, feminine displays. Who wouldn't love a Valentine adorned with any of these things. So lovely and inspiring.

As for me, I'm still here. I've been absent, I know. I am going to create a new space for blogging the question is when? Lots of ideas but nothing feels right just yet. Still deciding on a name, etc. I'm particular that way but I know when it feels right I'll know it. I may simply go with my name if nothing else fits. We'll see? I did create a new header for this space though (for those of you reading in a reader). I love playing with these things. So much fun and pure pleasure.

Hope everyone is having a wonderful new year.

Oh . . . and because it sounded like fun. I've seen this at few places so I'm joining in. Sixteen random things about me. I'll post one at a time like Lobster & Swan is doing.

01. I studied pre-med for 2 1/2 years at university but then decided it wasn't for me. I still love the sciences, always have, but my heart wasn't in it. I don't have any regrets about leaving that discipline but I do wish I would have taken more Art classes. I'm an absolute believer in studying what interests you, what gets your blood pumping not what someone else thinks you should be doing.

About Those Postcards . . .

2008-12-16T12:55:00.005+09:00

Well . . . I failed miserably at my attempt to do a postcard a day for the Christmas season. Urgh! I had so hoped to share the season and what's happening around here and look what happened. I'm not down yet! I may, that's may, be able to pull something together to make up for my bad blogger ways and not delivering my promised postcards. My internet access and time to work with photos seems to be very limited which put a damper on things. Mind you, they (the photos) weren't all going to be the gorgeous, blue skied, beach photos of the Indian ocean. No, I don't live on the beach, sigh. Would be nice though, would it not?

I'm also going to be leaving this blog, I'm pretty certain, and starting with a fresh new url & name. At least that's the plan. It's been brewing for a while and I feel like I want to do something different, have a fresh start and move in a little different direction. If that makes sense? Of course, not until after the new year. I'm not going to disappear all together from here or anything (not until I am up & running elsewhere) but I feel pulled to change and I'm thinking I need to go with it since it's been rattling around in the ol' head for quite some time now.

As ususally happens this time of year, I am completely taken in with everything related to Christmas and always hope to do it all but yeah we know how realistic that is. Rather than feeling less than marvelous for not being able to do it all, I'm just taking it all in. Enjoying the little bit of magic that seems to happen this time of the year. The sort of magic that is 38 degrees (Celsius) and an announcement over the loud speaker at IKEA that snow (a show of snow-like bubbles) will be falling in the main entrance of the store. Somehow the idea of bubbles pretending to be snow and hot, summer weather give the Christmas season a whole new twist in my mind but hey I'm adjusting! And let me thank God now for air conditioning because it is a must have for the Christmas season and I can admit right here and now that if I were without it I would be the biggest bah humbugger and grinch of 'em all. Just sayin!

Christmas Postcard: 3 Dec

2008-12-03T10:25:00.005+09:00

Monkey Mia, Western Australia

Christmas Postcard: 2 Dec

2008-12-02T00:01:00.005+09:00

Denham, Western Australia

A Christmas Countdown From Down Under

2008-12-01T13:21:00.004+09:00

Christmas and summer were not two words I ever mentioned in the same sentence prior to moving to Australia. And as a born and bred northern hemisphere girl I can tell you it takes some getting use to. That.is.for.certain.

December 1st marks the official first day of summer here and while we’ve been having a fair bit of rain, and the wettest November since 1991, summer is fast upon us and so is Christmas. The countdown begins. In the spirit of things I’m going to do a postcard-a-day until Christmas. It’s my attempt at highlighting the season and spirit of Christmas here in Western Australia from my perspective. One that is so different than what I am use to.

Although, I am a native Californian and we don’t experience the white Christmases that most of our east coast states do it’s still winter and we do have snow in the local mountains just an hour and a half's drive away.

Everything is flip-flopped here. School is coming to an end (the kids are anxious, excited & counting down the days), the days are longer and summer activities are heating up. That means the temperature is raising as well. Exactly the opposite from the northern experience.

Last year the lovely Marta of m.writes did a wonderful Christmas countdown. I enjoyed every frosty, wintery, crispy photo she shared (thank goodness I can get my winter fix from other blogs). This year I bring you a southern hemisphere Christmas countdown. Bits and pieces of the Christmas atmosphere from down under.

*completely unrelated but this sweet story made me smile. what a great example.
a couple's first kiss

Christmas Postcard: 1 Dec

2008-12-01T00:01:00.006+09:00

Two Rocks Beach, Western Australia

Fabric Covered Pin Tack :: How To

2008-11-26T12:56:00.004+09:00

Here is a is a close up of the lovely pin tacks I made that I highlighted on my previous post about my pin board. The one on my board is larger(probably better as a magnet or decorative nail cover for a wall hanging) as I was experimenting with the project. I *love* this little project and have a few more ideas up my sleeve about them. You can make some too if you are so inspired. The tutorial for this project in case you missed it is here. Enjoy!

My Pin Board

2008-11-25T10:36:00.001+09:00

1. handmade paper i made
2. books & letters ~ my faves
3. pin tack (made by me)
4. a piece of mdf cut out in my initial(thanks sweety) ~ i have plans to cover it with paper or fabric
5. my 50 cent tea cup from the op shop (it's just there because i thought it looked pretty)
6. yummy yarn ~ totally inspiring me right now
7. lovely embossed card front from a dear friend
8. butterfly i cut out from a piece of clip art
9. another pretty card from same dear friend
10. handmade card by my mum
11. a simple, no clutter, minimalist bathroom sink ~ just to remind me that less is more

It's been a really long time since I used a pin board/inspiration board. I've always been one to keep little bits and pieces. You know, like the pretty note card a friend sends or the lovely paper from a wedding, shower or birthday invitation that is just too nice to chuck out and you still want to enjoy it a little bit longer. The only problem is that if you are not organised (and I'm not always) things tend to get cluttered up and before you know it you just have a stack of "stuff" that becomes a pile that is crammed or stuffed somewhere else and then it's not being enjoyed at all.

That used to be me. I always had good intentions of re-purposing or organising the things I had saved but too often they became part of a pile that got neglected. Now I am more diligent about what I keep and I make sure I have a place for it. A proper place. It's no longer that mystery pile labeled, "What the heck is in there?"

My point about all of this was that reacquainting myself with the pin board again has helped me to enjoy those little treasures and also have a place to house any other piece of inspiration, photo or what not.

It's evolved a little bit more since I took this photo and it is still a little bare. Of course, I would like to paint the trim and spruce it up some but I figured if I waited to that I'd end up with a pile and that would defeat my purpose.

I love to see what others put on their boards. I'm guessing there might be flikr group for that? I'll have to see. What's on your board?

Only Sometimes Now

2008-11-21T09:36:00.004+09:00

I’ve posted four times this week. I’m excited about that. Why? It feels good. Good like I accomplished something. I usually let perfectionism stand in my way with posting. Perfectionism is a funny thing. It can be a wonderful asset. Like say, when you are proofing or editing a project but man can it be the biggest stumbling block we put right there in front of ourselves. As if we needed an even higher hurdle to jump over in daily life. I’ve always been one for a challenge but making things more difficult than need be is not challenging, it’s just plain frustrating. I don’t know about you but when I get frustrated I don’t tend to put forth my best work.

I’m tossing perfectionism right out the window.

“Can you hear me perfectionism. I’m only calling on you when you are a help, not a hindrance. I love you dearly when you make me shine but too many times you have stood in my way. I am sorry but we can no longer continue on this way. I have to let you go.”

On with life. On with mistakes. On with stumbling and getting back up. On with allowing things to be ordinary and average. On with finding joy and beauty in the ordinary and average. On with recognising success does not come without failure. On with celebrating those failures as little stepping stones to a higher ground. On with embracing our flaws. On with living.

The perfectionist didn’t even plan these words. She just let her thoughts become words. That is a good thing.

Christmas Pattern Downloads

2008-11-20T09:16:00.008+09:00

Yasmine at A Print A Day has designed and made available as downloads these wonderful Christmas patterns for you to print out and use (please remember: personal use only). I've just highlighted a few. She has also just added list pads and will be adding labels and tags to complete the entire set. She is so kind.

The timing could not have been better. I'm incorporating these into my December Daily 08 project and I wanted to keep the cost at a minimum. Free works for me. All smiles here and very grateful for generous bloggers like Yasmine. I've got a few other ideas brewing about how to use these papers. So many possibilities. I hope to share those soon.

While you are there check out all of A Print A Day's downloads. There are some really lovely and fun downloads available.

Thank you Jasmine.

Hello Love

2008-11-18T13:14:00.005+09:00

It's simple.
I *love* Lucy.

Sneak Peak::December Daily 08

2008-11-17T09:50:00.006+09:00

Here's a little sneak peek of a project I'm working on. It's called December Daily 08 and you can get all the scoop over at Ali Edwards.

*In a nutshell : create a daily page for each day of December up until Christmas, or the whole month. Whatever you desire. Any size, any format you want. Then tell your story. Honestly, click over to see all the details as Ali is the master at describing all the detail and giving heaps of inspiring ideas.

It doesn't look like much now but it's coming together really nicely and I'm confident the completed version is going to shine. These were the very first stages of me giving this project a go. If you look at what Ali has created it will make more sense. Check out her December Daily 07 from last year on her sidebar to see the completed album. It's so chock full of goodness.

I'm really having fun with this. Did I already say that? Probably did but I wanted to share more about why I'm excited and totally inspired by this project. I love photos and I'm guessing I'm not alone in this sentiment especially when it comes to family photos. It's what we hopefully pass down generation to generation. A documentation of our lives. I love the history, stories + memories a photo delivers and I have for soo long wanted to get every photo I have organised in some sort of fashion so that when I leave this earth others can enjoy what I have experienced. When we document (journal) along with our photos it's so wonderful to look back and know what was happening during that moment, that day, that special event. Even if it's just a few words it tells so much more of the story. It allows us to connect and share and I think we all find joy in that.

I know I will have a lot more to say about this as it starts to come together more. I'm kind of worried about filling it daily when 1st of December rolls around which is soon but I'm going to push on and let it evolve as the days unfold. Even if it means average, ordinary days because that really is where the best stories come from. Wouldn't you agree? Since the backbone of the book will already be created it I'm looking forward to just adding and having fun instead of being bogged down with trying to get a layout set up.

The icing on the cake. My 13yr old step-daughter was so in awe of what I had started she asked if she could do one. Why of course! Below are a few pages she made using some of her paper stash.

It's not too late to join in! Let me know if you do.

Butterfly Punch Collage

2008-11-11T10:13:00.007+09:00

I've been meaning to show this as I finished this quite some time ago. I remember seeing it and knowing it would be a great project. And it was. With the holidays coming up there are a lot of variations you could try. I did this based on this project here by Ali Edwards. I'm a huge fan of her craft. I've also started the December Daily Album which I will share soon. I am really enjoying creating this project. It's been such a great outlet and I get to use paper + pattens which I *love*.

I used paint sample swatches from my local hardware shop. Now I'm not saying you should go out and raid their sample collection but 'ya know if you see a few that might come in handy or you have a stash that's been sitting around collecting dust, by all means, get crafting people.

I didn't have a butterfly punch so I ended up buying this small one for a special thirteen year old, I happen to know, who is "totally" into butterflies and loves the colour blue. I used a basic punch because I didn't allow time to find and purchase a larger, nicer one but this one did the job. I'm on the look out for some good quality, larger punches for future projects.

My largest expense was the shadow box frame which I purchased at our local IKEA. I love IKEA! I didn't even use cardstock (should have, I know!) for the base page to adhere the butterflies to. I didn't have any on hand so I used the sheet that came in the frame and it turned out fine. I did use small foam dots. Hard to see but the butterflies are all slightly raised which gives it a nice effect. I think I could have fit another row & column of butterflies in there as well but it was my first, so next time.

Little "Miss Butterfly" was pleased and that was all I needed to know that it was a success.

A Halloween Wish For You

2008-10-31T13:00:00.006+09:00

A very Happy Halloween to all of those partaking in the festivities.

if you are:
trick-or-treating
taking your children trick-or-treating
dressing in costume
handing out treats
getting to see all of the neighbourhood kids in costume
lighting your jack-o-lanterns
munching popcorn, candy corn & caramel apples
listening to spooky music
enjoying your Halloween decorations
hosting a gathering for family & friends or
feeling sick from sugar overload & eating the treats you are suppose to be handing out . . . . .

just know I am a wee bit jealous. It will be quiet here. I doubt we will have any trick-or-treaters but if we do I will be very surprised.

It's the atmosphere of my hometown I miss most. All of the children that fill the streets dressed in the most brilliant of costumes. Many proudly sporting their mother's handmade creations. Oh how I miss you all and all of your cuteness. So on this Halloween eve, I wish you all a night filled with the treats that Halloween brings.

xo

More Pink and a New Crush

2008-10-29T10:43:00.005+09:00

{images: Record The Day}

I do, I do! I have a new crush. On the visual delights at Record The Day. I'm smitten and captivated by all these wonderfully, yet small scale visual treats. I want to sit and stare and gaze at them forever and ever. I do!

I really love these collages. I really like the incorporation of the miscellaneous bits and pieces of daily life. The little notes we collect, or pages we tear, the business cards we are handed, the packaging from our favorite shop or the words we jot down. It is done so beautifully here and I'm completely inspired. It's a wonderful way to gather and keep all of the things we dream about and are inspired by.

I have intentionally featured all of them in pink because, well, I simply could not help myself and it is the end of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Not that that will stop me from splashing pink around. Just saying, you know?

1. estate sale lot 9 Coconut Ice
2. estate sale lot 17 Princess

And if that's not enough for you. Record The Day also has and etsy shop & blog called Lobster & Swan filled with her collection of "estate sale lots," like the two shown above, and other fabulous goodies. So if you want to add some lovely haberdashery to your own collection she's got some wonderful little packages in her shop. I SO want this one and this one! :)

craft recipe: spaghetti box , glue & paper

2008-10-24T12:43:00.006+08:00

I love paper. I especially love paper craft. Paper + making something. Even better. Throw in recycle/re-purpose to the mix and now we're talking.

I'm always saving good packaging knowing I can use it for some sort of craft or another. After seeing this paper project at A Little Hut I decided I'd give this little box a new life. I kept it really simple but I think the possibilities are endless. You can make it as simple or detailed as you wish.

I simply cut off the top of the box. This one is a little flimsy so I reinforced the ends, where the box was originally opened, with tape first. Then I cut my paper with a paper cutter and covered the long sides. I covered the ends last, squeezed a little glue just under the edges and held them in place with a clothespin. I thought it would be nice to have a design on the inside so I printed an image from my digital stash and used it for the inside. This would be great for the inside of a drawer or simply on top of your work area as a little catch-all for miscellaneous bits & pieces.

*It's my second post with pink. I didn't plan it that way, promise. I do have another "pink" project to share soon. It is Breast Cancer Awareness month though.

The Lure of Pink

2008-10-22T11:27:00.002+08:00

1. Pink for the Cure, 2. Pink Rose, 3. whisper baby pink, 4. New pink wellies for green wellies!, 5. Pink Cabinet, 6. not enough pink, 7. Pink bike, 8. Pink Door

Couldn't resist a little flikr fun. And I love me some pink. I think it's the softness of it that draws me in. I'm not attracted to the hot or dark pink shades. It's the soft, subtle tones that draw me in. Maybe it's the bursting of Spring here that's luring me in but honestly pink lures me in all year long.

I'm dreaming of:

1. A pink, hazy sky to lie under.
2. A pretty pink rose with a soft scent that I wouldn't forget to stop & smell.
3. A yummy, sweet cupcake with butter cream frosting dusted with pink goodness that I could eat whilst under that pink sky.
4. Pink wellies I can go puddle stomping in (Seriously, I would love a pair of these) along the way to smelling the roses, cupcake in hand, underneath the pink sky.
5. A vintage pink dresser to stash all my goodies in. Oh my!
6. A fresh cut pink gerbera to place in my kitchen sill.
7. A pink bicycle to ride through the countryside. Of course, I'd have to wear my pink wellies for stops to stomp along the way. I'd also have a basket to place my fresh cut flowers and my sweet treats I collected from my stop at the local bakers.
8. A pink painted door on the entry of my dream studio. The kind where dreamy delights become a reality. The one I'd come back to after my midday bicycle ride. The one where my pink wellies and pink bike would be parked just outside. The one where I'd retreat to to continue dreaming these dreams.

What's captured your imagination of late and what are you dreaming of?

Trick or Treat with A Fanciful Twist

2008-10-18T08:56:00.004+08:00

In order to get the Halloween festivities going and allow everyone to share a bit of their Halloween adventures "The" Party has started and I'm sure you will want to see what everyone else is up to, right? Head on over to Miss Vanessa's of A Fanciful Twist and check the link list of party goers for what I'm sure is chock block full of creative delights for a Halloween's night.

Will you be trick or treating?

Or dressing in costume and dancing the night away?

Perhaps you are like me? A candy giver who loves to pass out the "treats" to those who come in costume.

Whatever your plans are I hope they are filled with all the fun Halloween brings. Halloween is not the big hoop-a-la here in Australia, or at least here in Perth, and I miss my hometown neighbourhood and all the magic that happens there. My step daughter has asked the last few years if she can dress in costume and trick-or-treat. Only problem is that I've not yet experienced anyone participating and it wouldn't serve any purpose to parade around in costume with no treat givers on hand. Maybe this year? We can hope. If not we'll try and create a little Halloween magic to enjoy here. There are no pumpkin patches either(for Halloween that is!) so carving is out of the question. There is no shortage of pumpkin here as it's a huge mainstay of the Aussie diet. We just need to get oursleves out to the country and find ourselves a pumpkin farmer with a pumpkin patch.

If you are doing some pumpkin carving/decorating Jessica of How About Orange created a list of projects for you to try here or maybe make some festive garland created by Lilli Beck.

Make sure you stop by "The Party". I know Miss Vanessa will not disappoint with her amazingly creative and wonderful tales.

{images: my free sample s from Dover Publishing}

knitting 101

2008-10-06T10:37:00.000+08:00

After talking the talk the past few years about learning to knit, I finally walked the walk. I. Can. Knit. Woohoo! And I’m quite happy thank you very much. It feels like forever that I’ve been admiring everyone else's knitting projects. Every time I gawked over their fabulous creations, I was always feeling that tug, that desire to know how. Well I guess timing is everything because I finally sat myself down and gave it a go.

I’m knitting a scarf. I know. Isn’t that what every beginner starts with? I’ve made plenty of mistakes but I keep on going. I think all of the mistakes will only give it more character. Don’t you agree?

It feels good to learn something I’ve wanted to do for so long. I look forward to learning so much more and tackling another on my list of things to try/learn.

What’s on your list? What “something” new have you learned or tried recently?

when we lead by example

2008-10-01T12:04:00.006+08:00

far & away in daily life

2008-09-24T11:56:00.006+08:00

I wish I could say I've been off to some exotic and far away land at the earth's end but such is not the case. Although I guess one could say that Australia would classify as exotic, in a sense, and far away. Far away from everyone else that is! This photo does not represent that. It is a cloudy, rainy day on an ordinary day. A day in the life of me. This is my glimpse of the city driving from the north. Every time it comes into sight I say to myself, "Hello Perth!" I also want to say "Hello" dear friends.

A few things:

Spring is definitely gaining momentum here. It takes some time to start associating September with spring beginnings rather than fall ones when you've spent the majority of your life in the northern hemisphere. September has always been back-to-school and the slow entry of crisp, cool weather gradually setting in. It's hard to adjust mentally when just about everyone I know, and almost all of the blogs I visit, are experiencing this entry into fall. I love fall and the promise of winter.

While we are having a fair amount of rain here (and I LOVE the rain) I know the warm weather is near and there are parts of me that welcome it but other parts of me that dread those unbelievably hot, hot days. I love summer and all it's activities but the extreme heat makes me an unhappy camper. I guess I'm sad to let go of the mild weather.

I know I've neglected this place. It's a combination of things really but I keep hoping I can change that as I do love to post entries (as few as they might be), honest. I feel organised and accomplished when I post. I think it's also a good feeling to give your voice a place to be heard. I've spent more time tweaking and playing with the header than anything but that's because this is what I find I am truly passionate about. Creating. Even if it's on a small scale. I've got to start somewhere. (I think I tire easily with the look of things and I'm still trying to find the "right" look that suits me so I make no promise about things changing frequently here). My resources for what I want to learn are limited so I'm using what is available and making the best of it. I still have a strong desire to learn graphic design, and I will! I've also had a go at some crafting and other small projects which have been really enjoyable. It is my hope to be able to expand on that love and share more about that.

Hope everyone is doing well?

xo
Collette

It Pays To Be Nice

2008-08-13T10:23:00.008+08:00

Are you nice? Do you think the world could use a little more "nice" in our day-to-day? I do and if you do too you will enjoy Operation Nice. A great site focused on all things nice. A visit there is a sure pick-me-up. There's even a give-away going on so what are you waiting for?

*found via A Little Hut

a Love note

2008-08-07T13:54:00.005+08:00

This past weekend I found an envelope propped up against our bedroom door. Inside was a lovely card with the above message inside. My heart melted a bit.

I've been creating with the materials I have at hand and my step-daughter has been the recipient of a few small projects (which I hope to share in a post soon). She's all about butterflies right now, hence her creative and imaginative *pen* name.

Kind words make the heart soar.

It's Love Thursday everyone. Hoorah!
XO

circa 1977

2008-08-05T10:41:00.001+08:00

That's me circa April 1977 (9 yrs. old) if my memory serves me correct, but I'm going to have to look at the back of the photo again to make sure. Although I'm fairly sure because I can still visualise my grandmother's writing on the back. But fairly sure won't do. I'll just have to check it to make sure, because yes I'm a little particular like that. And getting off the subject too.

Seeing her handwriting is something I will always recognise. Isn't it great how specifics like this we never forget. When I see this photo it reminds of many things I will definitely never forget.

1) I'll never forget Hans. He's the little "weiner" dog I'm holding. (Hans II) My grandparent's had a miniature dachsund named Hans. He, Hans I, was killed by a neighbour's dog while they were staying at their property in the desert. I was heart broken, to say the least. Sad story. He wondered onto the neighbour's property to say hello and their big, ferocious dogs didn't like that! Hans was my grandparent's dog but really more my dog, if you know what I mean? My grandparent's brought Hans II home shortly after. He lived 16yrs that little weiner, and oh how I loved him so.

2) See those tin measuring cups hanging on the wall just behind my head to the right. My mum still has those to this day. Old and used and a bit battered but still in working condition. I grew up using those in my grandmother's kitchen. And the spice rack above my head. That was there for as long as I can remember.

3) That tank to the left of me. Yep, that's the water heater. Why oh why was it put in the kitchen? I don't know but that's where it went and I guess that's just what they did it in those days. It always made gurgling and grumbling sounds and thinking about it now it was just part of the atmosphere in that kitchen and without those sounds, well . . .it's hard to imagine. It wouldn't be the same.

4) I was just finishing 4th grade that year. I was in Mr. Disher's 4th/5th grade combination class and he was that teacher everyone liked. One of my favorites for sure, if not the favourite. He was just so cool and if memory serves me correct, I may have had a small crush on him too!

5) That was also my first year on the school drill team. My hometown had a May parade and our little drill team got to march in it. I loved watching it every year. Bringing our blankets and chairs and getting a good spot early. To march in it was a big deal at 9 years old. The May Festival also meant a weekend packed with cotton candy, hot dogs, coin tosses, stuffed animal prizes and rides galore. With the May Festival came the weekend long carnival. Those were some of my most cherished childhood memories.

What are some of the memories you most cherish from your childhood? Please share, or write a post and leave a link here.

*Inspired by Blog About Five Things Week from Frances at Blogjem which I found via Michelle of Bleeding Espresso.

My Little Helper

2008-07-31T23:00:00.002+08:00

I've had a curious little partner lately in everything I do. Always wanting to investigate what's going on sometimes poking her little nose into places it doesn't belong. She's a naughty little girl too but she's still a puppy so she can get away with things, well sort of. It also helps she's so darn cute. Don't ya think?

And lately I've been in a really creative and craft mode. I've been collecting craft project tutorials online, sorting through a few great project books I have and getting excited about all the great project ideas from some of my favorite magazines. The list is growing long. I find myself completely taken in by all things handmade and totally inspired by those who are creating. I've tapped into my creative soul and I am finding such pleasure in this process.

What creative endeavor pleases your soul?

Heaven & Hell, well sort of . . .

2008-07-31T12:24:00.005+08:00

I believe I was living in Germany when someone told me this little saying. It's a generalization and it's meant to be fun and light-hearted so please don't send me any m-mail(mean-mail). It still makes me laugh because generalisation or not, there are elements that ring true and for those who have experienced any of these cultural stereotypes you perhaps understand what I mean.

HEAVEN:

Heaven is where the chefs are French,
the lovers are Italian,
the mechanics are German,
the police are British
and all is organised by the Swiss.

HELL:

Hell is where the chefs are British,
the lovers are Swiss,
the mechanics are French,
the police are German
and all is organised by the Italians.

Me in a mosaic

2008-07-28T12:47:00.014+08:00

A little photo fun is always good.

I saw this the first time over at Bleeding Espresso and saw it again today over here. Today felt like the day to give it a try. I really like the arrangement. Colourful and oh so pretty. Made me a bit cheery. I like that. Seems the mosaic turned out just the way it was intended to be.

Below is the list of questions and with the answers you do a search with flikr to find a corresponding photo.Then build your mosaic with Big Huge Labs. It's fun and surprising in ways. Give it a go! Leave me a link to yours if you do one, or already have.

1. Collette roses, 2. Heirloom Tomatoes, 3. Orange as any orange on a tree, 4. How much more red could this be?, 5. gerard_butler_04, 6. Fresh-Squeezed Orange Juice, 7. Give us this day..., 8. Sticky Date Pudding with Toffee Sauce (single serve), 9. 25 / 52: Be Grateful!, 10. 4. Give more., 11. A Compassionate Touch, 12. Collette's Cafe

What is your first name? Collette
What is your favourite food? tomato
What high school did you attend? Orange High
What is your favourite colour? red
Who is your celebrity crush? Gerard Butler
Favourite drink? fresh squeezed orange juice
Dream vacation? I couldn't think of one destination but the one thing I really want to do is a giving vacation. Where you go to a particular place and give of your time to those in need.
Favourite dessert? sticky date pudding (with caramel sauce).
What do you want to be when you grow up? I want to grateful for all that's happened in my life: good and bad.
What do you love most in life? freedom
One word to describe you? compassionate
Your Flikr name? Colletties

Free Samples of Lovely Images from Dover Publishing

2008-06-19T08:36:00.007+08:00

These lovely images are free samples I get weekly from Dover Publishing and I wanted to share this information with you in case you don't already know about it. I learned of this free weekly sign up from Jessica at How About Orange. If you are interested in this sort of thing, like me, then head on over because Jessica shares all kinds of neat things on her blog.

Sure you could just look at these pretty images if you want but if you are feeling a tad bit creative then the possibilities are endless. I love this art nouveau image and want to fill in the banner portions with some words and use it on a handmade card. Or maybe on some personalised stationery and perhaps even in a collage .

Samples like this art deco image would also work on handmade cards, pattern pieces for scrap booking as a background or maybe just printed on good quality paper and framed.

These images would also look lovely framed.

I love old vintage posters and the Navy holds special to me. My grandfather was in the Navy and I actually considered joining back in the day when I thought I wanted to become a doctor. You know because the idea of the military paying for medical school in exchange for 4 years of service was a lot more appealing than the debt I would have accumulated. That feels like another life.

These are just a small sample of what they offer. Sign up and see for yourself, it's free.

---------------------------------------------------------------

My friend Susan of Made for Joy did a little something called "First Thing" and asked if I wanted to do the same. Why of course! So here it goes:

My First Thing(s) (done last Saturday):

I thought: "I'm hungry and buttermilk pancakes sure sound good".
I ate: Buttermilk pancakes & onion+bacon egg scramble. Gee isn't that a coincidence.
I drank: Tang. I know! Don't ask. (kidding you can if you want?)
I said: "Morning"
I did: Turned the heat on.
I read: Jamie Oliver's Italy
Item of clothing I put on: Jumper over my jammies.
Person I spoke to: My husband.
Chore I did: Dishes. Oh joy! We don't have a dishwasher - and I really tire of handwashing everything - urgh!
Blog I visited: None. No blog hopping today.

I Won a Give-Away at A Little Hut

2008-06-17T11:13:00.012+08:00

This could not have come at a better time. A few weeks ago I entered a give-away hosted by Patricia of A Little Hut. It was a give-away to mark the third anniversary of her lovely blog. I have, on occasion, entered give-aways but this is my first win and I am tickled pink folks about being the lucky winner but even more excited about what I've won. I found out I was the lucky recipient a few days after the break-in(see previous post) and it lifted my spirits. It reminded me that in the midst of the bad that happens there's always that little seed of goodness that sprouts. I'm not talking about the material items, although they are lovely and I'm seriously tickled, I'm talking about the perspective it gives you when everything seems gloomy. This is why I say the timing could not be better.

Allow me to share the lovely items I'm awaiting to arrive in the post.

1) Tiny Yarn Animals (Paperback)
2) I Was Told There'd Be Cake

And this is the piece I am most excited about: an original piece of paper craft that Patricia does so beautifully with paper + blade. Swoon.

And last but not least: Alphabet Mat Boards Templates

If you haven't already discovered A Little Hut get on over there and check out Patricia's creative projects. Thanks again Patricia.

{images: with permission from A Little Hut}

sometimes obstacles do get in my way

2008-06-10T12:37:00.008+08:00

Forgive me Dearest blog, for I have sinned. It has been more than a month since my last post.

Gee where do I begin? Please forgive me ahead of time if this post is poorly worded or expressed. I’ve debated, with myself of course, on whether or not to mention it at all but I feel I must in order to say it and move on. Must move on.

A couple of weeks ago we came home to find our home had been burgled. As you can imagine, it was a one of those sick to your gut feelings along with “Did this really happen?” I was pretty sick about it and, to some extent, yes it still bothers me and I wonder if I should even be posting about it (more on that later).

It makes me angry to know total strangers have such disregard for others and their property. I feel totally violated and sick that some really sad people (for lack of a better word) broke into our home. Losers!

My privacy was invaded in a horrible way. The losers got off with our large plasma tele, my son’s laptop, my MacBook Pro, an old and broken mobile (fools), my check book and they even had the nerve to rifle through our kid’s rooms and take our daughter’s school bag with all of her school work inside. Disgusted pretty much sums up how I feel. Must move on, I know. Getting there.

Lesson learned: make sure I have back-up copies of all personal photos and work, etc. I lost most of my library of photos and I am kicking myself for not uploading them elsewhere. I could have uploaded to my mac account but I didn’t. I’ve basically been beating myself up all the while telling myself this serves no purpose except to remember the lesson learned. The hard way I might add.

The fact that total strangers have a peek into my “stuff” annoys me. Although I have been reminded they most likely didn’t target me personally I’m taking it personal and I’m mad. They can read my blog if they want to which creeps me out completely. I know it’s a public site but I dare to think the losers could be creepy to boot.

I thought maybe not to post for fear the losers who came into our home uninvited might read this. I know it’s a far stretch but these things cross your mind, or mine anyway, and I’m bothered. It’s a strange feeling and one I hope will pass given a little more time.

When it rains it pours and I don’t want to be a complaining, whiny bum but I’m just stating the facts. It was my husband’s birthday the day we were violated. The following day our daughter was admitted to the hospital for the entire week due to an asthma attack. Our car is dying a slow death. I’m having some serious issues with my teeth and the pain has become unbearable. (I’ve been to the dentist and we’re making progress). *To top it all off, I found a lump in my breast. I’ve been mammogrammed, ultra sounded and biopsied and the radiologist said that it looked like common fibroid cists but they are taking care of me and making sure. I’m doing fine.

Feels good to get that off my chest about being burgled. Done with that and thanks for listening to me vent. I hope to move on and post about good things. Things I have a passion for, things that bring joy and make me want to skip rather than walk.

(*I don’t make habit to talk about something so personal but I do so in saying I appreciate any and all prayer for this matter.)

“Keep Calm and Carry On”. I’ll do just that.

words that resonate

2008-05-07T11:40:00.005+08:00

"Hope, at the end of the day connects us all no matter how different we are"

Marketa Irglova

I have found myself gravitating towards quotes and words of wisdom, if you will. Words that encourage, lift up the soul and gently remind me that life is full and great and the good outweighs the ugly but only when we really believe in it, focus on it and keep it front and center. I admit, it takes effort on my part (sometimes more than I prefer) to do this. I'm not a negative person by nature, not even close, but I admit I have to work at keeping the*stinkin' thinkin'* out of my life.

It's not always easy and sometimes it's not as simple to say it's all about choice. I believe it’s more about awareness and inviting the positive into your life. Never assuming it will simply show up. It needs an invitation from each of us.

A few months ago, I recorded the Oscars. I know I did it out of a need for comfort. Allow me to digress here. You see, I use to be a big movie buff, although not anymore, and while I don't follow Hollywood gossip or buy into the whole celebrity craze I do have some very fond memories of gathering with friends and family (and food of course) to watch the big event. A dear friend of mine use to host an annual party at her house for a few years and it was *oh-so-much* fun and I miss those times.

Even though I had the privilege to watch it and fast forward through the commercials it still took me about three sittings to finish it all. I think I enjoyed it in small doses. It is after all, a three hour event and maybe, just maybe, I wanted to make it last longer because I didn’t want the comfort to end.

When the Oscar for best song was awarded I found myself rewinding several times so I could hear exactly what the recipient said. Even better was the fact that she was initially cued off stage via the orchestra but after the commercial they allowed her to come back and deliver her speech. I grabbed my pen and paper because I had to write it down. Her words moved me and I was excited to hear them spoken. I did rewind. And rewind. Again and again to make sure I heard it correctly. I didn’t mind hearing what she said over and over.

I’m just reveling in the fact that a simple acceptance speech delivered such beautiful words. They moved me and so I’m passing them on. There is a lot to be said of hope.

FYI: Turns out I didn’t need that pen and paper after all. They post the winner’s acceptance speeches on their official site. You can read Marketa’s here. I recommend it and it’s not long winded.

soul dust

2008-05-02T10:22:00.011+08:00

washes from the soul the dust
of every day life.

picasso

I bought a Stamping & Papercraft magazine the other day and was pleasantly surprised to find some quotes that really resonated with me and encouraged me. This was one of those quotes. I find it to be so true. Whether you are the creator of said *art* or just admiring art, in any form, it really does the soul well. I believe we are surrounded by art but sometimes the clutter of life blocks our view. Here's to cleaning up the clutter, wiping away the dust and allowing our souls to breath.

{photo: made by Spell with flikr}

she spreads joy

2008-04-30T09:27:00.007+08:00

Inspirational
Strong
Courageous
Kind
Honest
Poetic
Inviting
Witty
Loving
Devoted
Dedicated
Consistent

and well the list could simply go on and on ..................................

These are what I think of when I think of Corey of Tongue In Cheek.

Today I want to simply send out some love to this great woman and friend to all of us who visit her blog. Today, Corey's father went home to be with Our Lord. I am amazed at the her fortitude during the last few months of this difficult journey. Through it all she has managed to still share her beautiful words and poetic outlook on life, when she could have rolled up her sleeves and said, "To heck with it all." She did not! She continues to do what she does best. Share and focus on her blessings and lift others up even through sadness and pain. I know Corey has stated many times that she receives much more from her readers(friends) and how truly grateful she is and that posting daily on her blog is a comfort to her, perhaps an outlet and sometimes sanity keeper.

Still, I can't help but take notice of just how much love and joy she spreads, and quite frankly I don't think Corey is aware of just how much she does give to others.

Corey~
Today I honor you and what an example of a bright and shining light you are. It's so easy to see the love of Jesus living in you. God Bless you.

i do love thee

2008-04-24T08:39:00.006+08:00

The other day whilst out and about getting a few things I found myself in the confectionary section of the shop. Mmhhh…..how did I end up there? Just like me. Easily distracted and wondering around just because. What I was there to buy, mind you, was not in this section of the store. Go figure!

I found myself in front of the marshmallows (why isn’t it marshm*e*llows?) I immediately saw these and knew they were going home with me. The cute heart shapes had me sold and besides my step daughter loves hearts, and sweets. She definitely gets that from her daddy.

I’ve never been a huge fan of the marshmallow by itself, as a snack or treat. Here, in Australia, they are more of a treat (lollie as we say). They come in different shapes, colours and flavours. I’m used to a bag of plain whites either miniatures or the large size. I have yet to find a plain bag here. They just aren’t used for the same thing we use them for in the US. When I think of marshmallows I associate them with the following:

• Thanksgiving yams with marshmallows melted on top. I can’t remember a Thanksgiving without them. I loved them every year, and still do.

•Rice crispy treats. I loved these growing up, and yep still love them now. I need to make some, speaking of.

•S’mores. Can you taste the goodness just thinking about these? I honestly can’t think of a more iconic American treat than these. So many fond memories of these at camp and the many beach bonfires over the years.

•Hot chocolate with a bunch of miniature marshmallows. The melted, gooey yumminess of it all.

I think the marshmallow is a love of mine. Not in and of itself but what I associate it with. It’s a comfort and reminder of fond memories and happy times. Thanksgiving is love. The marshmallows on top of the yams are just an expression of that love. The love your mom and grandmother poured into preparing that dish because they knew you loved it. Rice crispy treats are love. Made the same way because they knew you loved them and they truly were a treat. Hot chocolate is love. A steaming cup handed to you by your mom made just the way you like it, with marshmallows on top. S’more are love. The many conversations had with family and friends around a fire ring holding your wire hangar with the marshmallow at the end ever so carefully, making sure it was toasted perfectly.

It seems the marshmallow has it’s own special place in my heart. I’m looking forward to making the family some hot chocolate, especially my step daughter, this weekend as we are finally having cool nights here.

How do you love thee? What do you associate the marshmallow with? Please do tell.

Happy LOVE Thursday everyone.

the hope revolution

2008-04-22T08:05:00.004+08:00

{images used with permission via Hope Revolution}

I stumbled upon Hope Revolution about a week ago via this wonderful story and wouldn't you know it was just what I needed at that moment. I love God's infinite wisdom. The idea is beautiful and genius all wrapped into one and the world could use a lot more of this. Treat yourself and go check it out. Join the revolution, become a revolutionary. You won't be disappointed, promise!

a surprise "meeting" of sorts

2008-04-14T11:25:00.008+08:00

Two weeks ago my husband called me in the afternoon to inform me he would be home but that he would be leaving the house again that evening as he had to meet with someone regarding work. The "meeting" would take a few hours because it was about an hour from here. Nothing unusual as sometimes these things tend to take place in the evenings. "Ok. I will see you when you get back," I said.

Our son went along with. You know, father-son bonding time.

They arrived home and my husband came in. It wasn't until a few minutes later that I asked where our son was. It seemed he was taking longer than usual to get inside. Shortly after, out of the corner of my eye, I thought I saw something moving across our kitchen floor. Yep. There she was. Little and sweet and eyes of green. Soft and cuddly and as brown as our timber floors. No wonder I couldn't see her. Sneaky boys!

I am enjoying her immensely. She is pure joy and I'm sure I will have plenty more to share about her, ahem.

undergoing a few minor changes here

2008-04-08T14:55:00.006+08:00

Pardon the boring*ness* of this site while I try to fix a few things. I'm frustrated. I made some changes today and it all turned out fine. I was experimenting and tweeking a little when to my horror I decided to have a lookie on our PC using Internet Exploder, ahem Explorer. My template was all wrong. Gasp! Now mind you it all looked pretty on my Mac using Firefox. On the PC it was a completely different scene. I had no columns and the fonts and colours were wonky. I typed a post asking for feedback, as I was going to leave it, but being impatient and not wanting my blog to look so horrible I decided I would revert it back to the standard and tomorrow I will go in and fix what I can. Oh the joys! I cannot understand how it looked fine on the Mac but totally wrong on the PC. If you have any theories, or you just plain understand CSS and different browser platforms feel free to share the love. I'd like to know. I swear there are cyber monkeys inside the net messing things up just to get my *goat*.

I'll be back with a post of something but I'll have to tackle this first because it plain drives me mad.

update: getting there, slowly, but not there yet!

Bush By Foot

2008-03-19T12:50:00.012+09:00

walking trail, Yanchep National Park cheeky 2008

Bushwalk
What you need:
A want to get out, breathe some air and get some exercise.
A companion to come along with (not required but nice).
A good pair of walking shoes.
Sunblock, and lots of it.
A hat. Preferably one that covers your neck as well. It's hot down under.
Sunglasses. Necessary.
H2O. Of course.
A camera. For those wanting to share the adventure, like moi.

kanga, Yanchep National Park photo taken by my 13yr old

If you are lucky, like we were, you might even stumble upon a kangaroo or two.

Something is better than nothing

2008-03-18T12:50:00.001+09:00

I realised today I had to just write. Write anything, really. Something. It didn’t matter what but something, for myself. You see, I’ve been walking away feeling empty each time I don’t post. I’m constantly jotting things down but not bringing it all together collectively. Writing is freeing, even if it isn’t proper or good. It’s good exercise for my mind and soul. It gives me a certain sort of high, like running does. I’m guilty of always editing or second guessing what I’m writing. That gets me nowhere. I realised I’m denying myself something that motivates and lifts me up. From now on, I’m going somewhere. Even if it’s so-so because it’s a heck of a lot better than nowhere which is where I remain when I do nothing.

Here I am.

No organised topic. Not just yet. It will come. For now I will spill. Spill out thoughts, random little titbits, etc. Whatever feels right, for me. Whatever feels fun and easy and free.

I miss home and the comfort of things familiar but I am slowly becoming familiar with my new surroundings.
I like the view of the city we get, just up on the hill, when we drive to school in the morning. Always makes me smile.
I look forward to the cooler weather that is coming. I’m also getting more “use to” the fact that I now live in the southern hemisphere where seasons are opposite those in the north.

I feel better already.
xo

Be Back Soon

2008-03-14T13:22:00.000+09:00

Dear Friends,

I wanted to have some wonderfully, creative post to come back with but I don't. Not yet anyway! I'm still alive and have been visiting many of my favorite blogs and if you haven't seen me at your place, you will soon. Promise. Until then, I leave you with a short and sweet "hello", I miss all of you and this wonderful quote.

"Happiness is a direction, not a place." -Sydney J. Harris
found via The Dear Diary Stories

A Sign of Promise

2007-12-27T10:55:00.002+09:00

rainbow over the Perth Royal Show, Australia © cheeky 2007

Visit Wordless Wednesday to see all participants.
**update: I accidentally deleted this post and had to repost, losing all comments. Thanks to all of you who commented.

Christmas: A few questions answered

2007-12-12T13:14:00.003+09:00

Wrapping paper or gift bags?
Both. Plus anything else that can be used to disguise a present. I enjoy giving attention to the presentation of the gift. I love it when you can see the thought that goes into wrapping something special. I’ve had good luck finding unique gift bags for a fraction of the regular price at discount shops {my fave}.

Real tree or artificial?
Real. Nothing beats the smell and it’s what I grew up with so it feels right. They do make some amazing artificial trees these days, unlike ones of the past that consisted of a dark green, wooden rod with plastic, green, prickly pieces that fit ever so neatly into the drilled holes on the center rod.

When do you put up the tree?
We never put it up on a specific day but always try to have it up around the first week of December. We always enjoy the whole process of decorating and then getting to sit and admire all the ornaments and lights. I love to curl up under a blanket, turn off all the lights, except for the ones on the tree, and just dream. . . . .

When do you take the tree down?
After the new year. We like to stretch it out and enjoy it as much as possible.

Do you like eggnog?
Do kids like presents? Of course! Thinking about it now makes me want some. Guess I need to get out and buy some. Mmmhhh yummy.

Favourite gift received as a child?
I can’t remember one single gift that stands out as being the best. Every Christmas was my favourite in and of itself. As long as I can remember I have always loved being with family and friends. I have to say, that is my favourite gift.

Do you have a Nativity Scene?
Why, yes I do. Jesus is the reason for the season. I think the Nativity is an important reminder of what Christmas is all about.

Hardest person to buy for?
My brother.

Easiest person to buy for?
My mother.

Mail or email Christmas cards?
I’ve never sent a virtual card. I’m not opposed to them but they just don’t carry the same sentiment and they never will, for me. There is nothing more lovely than a handwritten note. I love seeing words on paper. What happened to the idea of taking time to write a personal message to family and loved ones? I hear a lot of “too busy”, “don’t have time”, etc. I don’t want my life to become too busy for what really matters; my family and friends. I believe we make time for what’s really important.

Worst Christmas gift you ever received?
Anything gifted to me is appreciated.

Favorite Christmas movie?
A Christmas Story.
Red Ryder BB Gun and "You'll shoot your eye out kid." Come on, it doesn't get any better than that!

When do you start shopping for Christmas?
I don’t have a specific time frame. I try to purchase little treasures for others whenever I find them and put them aside for the right moment or occasion. Shopping under pressure with all the craziness isn’t fun and I try to avoid it at all costs. Besides, it feels like you buy something just to buy it and I’m not comfortable doing that.

Have you ever recycled a Christmas present?
Nope. Never. I don’t re-gift.

Favourite thing to eat at Christmas?
My mom’s snowball cookies {also known as Russian tea cakes}.
It’s the only time of year they are made and I have fond memories of sneaking them when I was younger.

Clear lights or coloured on the tree?
I have used white for quite a while but I get bored and like to change things up a bit. I love vintage coloured lights.

Favourite Christmas song?
O Holy Night.

Travel at Christmas or stay home?
Most years I have been home with family but I have also traveled. One of the most memorable was the Christmas I spent in Italy. I spent the day walking the streets of Rome.

Can you name all of Santa’s reindeer?
Comet, Cupid, Donner, Prancer, Dasher, Vixen, Dancer, Blitzen & Rudolph. (All those years of watching the animated Christmas specials on television paid off)

Angel on the tree top or star?
Angel. I’d like to have a star. Just have to find the right one.

Open the presents Christmas Eve or Christmas morning?
We always open one on Christmas Eve and the rest on Christmas Day.

Most annoying thing about this time of year?
I’m trying to keep my focus on Jesus, the reason for the season. If I stay focused on Him I don’t have room to be annoyed.

Favourite ornament, theme or colour?
I have many ornaments that I have collected from all over and each one has it’s own story. They are all special in their own right. I do like a softer touch as far as decorating goes. “Less is more” motto, except for my tree. It is chock-full of ornaments.

Favourite for Christmas dinner?
I always looked forward to my grandmother’s Christmas Eve dinner. While it wasn’t fancy, "schmancy" it was always good and Christmas Eve was always the gathering for our family. My grandmother always made a ham, her baked beans, potato salad {not just any, her’s was the best} and deviled eggs. It was simple and it always tasted so good.

What do you want for Christmas this year?
I don’t know. I haven’t made any specific requests but I’m always pleasantly surprised with the gifts I do receive.

*Thank you Karen of Zazazu for passing along this même. Feel free to join in if you feel moved to do so.

"It's beginning to look{feel} a lot like Christmas"

2007-12-03T11:29:00.001+09:00

vintage advent calendar

Now for a little something I'm calling Ad{Blog}vent calendar. I will start it form the 1st December, like most do, and supply a wee something for each day as we count down the days until baby Jesus lay in a manger.

1 DEC: I found this by way of Miss Marta. {See 00} I really love this idea. If you don’t want to use books, what about wrapping up 24 favourite poems, quotes, love notes to your sweetie, or even writing out some of your favourite Bible verses and letting those be that day’s focus. You can add your own flavour and make it uniquely yours.

2 DEC: In the mood to bake? Check out this fabulous calendar of cookies. Homemade treats make THE best gifts.

*****************************

I’m sorry to report. The cold has one up on me. Not for long sucker!

Last night I slept with a box of tissue within arm’s reach. Today the same box has decided it likes me so much it will sty by my side until it's sheets are no more. What's a girl to do? Sniffle, sniffle . . . . cough, cough . . . . aachheeeewww! Plug your nose and repeat after me. “I’m all stuffy and I sound like a cartoon character; a really bad cartoon character.

In my last post I groaned {not a lot, just a little } about dear Blogger. I have yet another Blogger {Booger} glitch I want to share. Just sharing the love folks because this stuff is important, ya know! If you go to edit your profile Blogger seems to assign you Accounting in the Industry part of your profile, even if you do not make any changes to that category. I had not selected anything in this category and I noticed it said Accounting. I changed it to None Specified and still it wanted to spit out Accounting. I have also noticed this glitch on other profiles that I know are not in accounting. So, make sure you check when making any changes. It took me a couple of tries to get it sorted. Darned thing! I still love you Blogger, faults and all.
*I should probably let the peeps over at Blogger know, in case they don’t already.

Random & Me

2007-11-30T17:12:00.001+09:00

I was asked to play along.
6 Random things about myself.

06 :: I don't believe in coincidence. I believe God is the divine coordinator of all meetings. I've been blessed so many times with people in my life. Some for the long term, others briefly at the exact needed time. They have been the deliverers of wisdom, love, knowledge and compassion. Those are not the things one chalks up to coincidence. Not me.

05 :: I rarely fall ill. Colds and flus do I not regularly succumb to. Thank goodness. Last night I fell ill. Oh how I am unhappy when my body does not feel well. Sore throat. Hurts to swallow. I can't wait until it's gone.

04 :: This is definitely random. I was a "bed wetter" and it didn't completely go away until I was about 11 years old, if I remember correctly. Now it wasn't every night and it did become less and less the older I became, but it was there. It never stopped me from socialising, i.e. sleepovers, etc. but there were some uncomfortable moments which I won't recount.

03 :: I've been told I am sentimental. Sentimental: marked or governed by feeling, sensibility, or emotional idealism; resulting from feeling rather then reason or thought. I'd have to agree with that.

02 :: I have a small collection of depression glass. I haven't purchased any in a long time. The few pieces I do have, I love and cherish. I also have a neat little collection of wooden boxes. Each one unique and different from the other.

01 :: I did not "get" or understand all the hype about the movie Forrrest Gump. I did not like it nor enjoy it.

*bonus :: Blogger makes me want to throw my hands up in the air. There are some serious programming issues with post drafting and I could scream. It seems to look like one big link when you drag over 03. ~ 01. Go figure! I'm too tired to rewrite the post, maybe later? I tried and it still played up. These things annoy me to no end.

Comfy & Casual

2007-11-28T04:31:00.002+09:00

jewel cave, public toilet WA, © cheeky

Who: Me of course.

What I wear: Denims, hoodie, cotton tee and a leather carryall (to house all my stuff + everyone else's. you know the routine. keys, mobile, wallet, water, tablets, snacks, tissues, camera and anything else that can be crammed in there)

Why: I like to be comfy, cosy and casual on holiday.

Where: Jewel Cave, Southwestern Australia. Public toilet.

When: Spring (October)

colourfall

2007-11-22T07:03:00.002+09:00

california fall, © cheeky

This is suppose to be Wordless Wednesday but I feel the need to explain. I am not a photographer, as I am sure I didn't even need to state that, but this photo was so vibrant and colourful until I uploaded it through Blogger. It's the only appropriate photo I have at the moment so it is going to have to do. I am disappointed. Mainly because the colours are not true to the original. Anyone know why?

Note to self: take that photography class you have always wanted to take.

my mind carries

2007-11-19T16:07:00.001+09:00

path, © cheeky 2007

My lovely friend Erin asked me to share eight random things about myself. My first thought was exactly that. Thoughts. Oh how I have so many running through my head. How ever will I clear my mind? Hhhmmmm.................. let me see. I will share them with you.

Rather than going from A - B, I seem to be to going from A - Z making all twenty-four stops along the way. Getting the picture? The thoughts are getting cramped and crinkled. My head is starting to become my junk drawer and it's time to empty it out.

I carry the following thoughts:

08. A stirring inside me. I am yearning heavy to be more creative. I am craving it. More creative in a "make things" kind of way. I am searching for a direction in which to take my creativity.

07. Hope. A hope in knowing that difficulties and stumbling blocks in this life are temporary. Hope is knowing they won't last forever. Thank God for that.

06. Memories of times past. I love reflecting on all the wonderful times I have been blessed with. They continue to bring joy to my life.

05. A Plan. To continue moving forward, even when self-doubt sneaks in.

04. Desire. A strong desire to learn and try new things. To set goals and reach for the stars. To know that nothing is impossible and everything is possible.

03. Appreciation. For all who inspire me, lift me up and love me. I always think of you.

02. Love. To love better, stronger and more. To love when I don't feel like it. Love does conquer all.

01. A list. A list a mile long. The list continues to grow. I embrace that. If I don't finish the list, I'm OK with that. I will enjoy the journey I'm on.

All of these thoughts are like steps to me. Each one takes me a little bit further on the journey of life.

Technorati tags: sunday scribblings

food :: favourites

2007-11-16T12:56:00.001+09:00

1. ::Tomato:: The glorious tomato. My favorite is raw. Picked right off the vine. Sliced, sprinkled with salt and pepper is just fine. The cherry variety is also good. No slicing involved just straight into your mouth. I *love* tomatoes. Tomatoes alone, tomato sauce, on sandwiches or salads, grilled and tomato soup. Then there is the Tomato & Mozzarella salad, or insalata caprese. What else is there to say except these two foods are simply two of the best. Especially together. It is imperative that the tomatoes are sweet, juicy and fresh with good colour and the mozzarella is the same, fresh. Of course, it wouldn't be quite right without the basil atop. Mmhhh...........yummy. Thinking about it makes me want some.

2. ::Potatoes Mash & Gravy:: Can you say comfort food? Now when I say mash I mean creamy, thick mash made with full cream milk(heavy cream),butter and cream cheese. Yep. That's right no low-cal ingredients. I don't think there is a bad way to prepare potatoes but mashed definitely takes top honors for me. I'm even a fan of other ingredients being thrown into the mix. Garlic and spring onion are really good.

3. ::Curry:: I pretty much enjoy anything curried. I especially love curry sauce/gravy soaked into rice. Chips (french fries) with curry. Ohhh yum! I've also been known to make curried egg salad, chicken salad, mayonnaise and anything else I might feel like spicing-up. I do prefer Indian and Japanese curries. Thai style curries are equally delicious but tend to be sweeter.

4. ::Avocado:: My favourite way to eat avocado is right out of the skin with salt, pepper and a spoon. It is the healthiest food on the planet, I believe. I cringe when people are worried about the fat content of an avocado. They honestly have no idea that this is the fat your body wants and needs, not to mention all of the other nutritional elements of the avocado. I really can't think of anything that doesn't taste nice with avocado.

5. ::Pesto:: Basil, sweet basil oh how I love thee. This stuff is packed full of flavor, easy to make and nutritious. I love it with pasta, chicken, fish, bread and veggies. The truth is that I could eat it with a spoon. I think pesto and the tomato are the bride and groom.

6. ::Sauerkraut, Pork & Dumplings:: I grew up with this dish. This was one of my grandmother's specialties. I do think it's an acquired taste, as many cringe at the thought of sauerkraut (I can't understand why? and people you are missing out!). I remember it cooking all day in a large roasting dish (of which my mother now has), the smell throughout the house and my grandmother preparing the dumplings last. The pork was tender and soft. I always had extra sauerkraut. We use to eat the left over dumplings for breakfast. I liked cinnamon and sugar on mine.

7. ::Carnitas:: OK. Not the healthiest of choices but certainly not lacking in taste. I do love the stuff. There's really only one way to eat it, and that's with Mexican rice, pinto beans, tortillas, chopped onion and cilantro and salsa of course. That's after you've eaten the whole basket of chips and salsa.

8. ::Eggs Benedict:: I love poached eggs and oh how I love hollandaise sauce. A combo made in heaven if you ask me. There seem to be a lot of variations of this dish. Swapping the Canadian bacon for salmon, spinach, bacon(american style), etc. Have you ever heard of swapping out the bread for avocado? I recently saw a recipe for this. A new variation I think I will love.

9. ::Filet Mignon:: "Medium please." "Wrapped in bacon?" "Yes that would be lovely." To make it even more sinful I like to order a side of Bernaise to dip each carefully cut piece into. If I really feel like splurging I order it with lobster. What a treat. I know there are many wonderful cuts of meat but this one is my favourite. I favour the Filet.

10. ::Spinach:: Raw as a salad is the way I usually eat spinach. Bleu cheese crumbles, green apple slices, caramelized pecans, poached chicken and crumbled bacon served with bacon dressing. There are so many foods that go well with spinach as a salad. Cooked is also nice. Of course, I go for the nice, rich dish of creamed spinach. Sinful I know, and calories? Who's counting?

11. ::Almonds:: I like raw almonds because they are such an easy snack food and so good for you. Have you ever made your own almond milk? If you are not a milk drinker and want a healthy and tasty alternative, almond milk is great. Soak raw almonds in water overnight in your refrigerator. Pour almonds and water into a blender or food processor. Blend on high until you have a creamy, smooth mix. You will need to add more water as it is blending. Add the amount desired, depending on how thin/thick you desire. When finished you will need to strain the almond puree and reserve the milk. There you have it! Almond milk. I love this stuff and it is so yummy. Go ahead, you know you want to try some. You can also use the leftover almond bits as an exfoliator if you are not keen on eating it.

12. ::Hummus:: Garbonzo beans or chick peas, as they are known, make up this wonderful stuff. I'm a big fan of Middle Eastern foods in general and hummus is such a great food with so many things. Of course I like it with toasted pita bread but it's also good with veggies. It's also really easy to make, not to mention healthy and nutritious. A winner in my book.

13. ::Capsicum:: Called bell peppers here in the US. I love them all. The red, green, orange and yellow varieties. Raw or cooked. They go with most everything. They are especially yummy sautéed with onion and garlic. ( I also *heart* onions & garlic and the smell of them cooking in the house) How about in pasta, on pizza, tossed in a salad or just sliced up to nibble on?

Technorati tags: food,thursday thirteen

sharing the simple and delightful

2007-11-14T08:11:00.002+09:00

Thanksgiving is fast approaching. Will you be celebrating? Will you be the gracious host, or the lucky invitee?

Whichever you happen to be this year, either way you will most likely be enjoying the comfort of family and friends and stuffing your belly full with some very delicious culinary delights.

Even if you are not celebrating Thanksgiving it's still a fabulous time of year for all sorts of other wonderful delights. After all, Christmas is just around the corner. Oh my! That means preparations and planning for all of the wondrous festivities that take place.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

*Here are a just a few things I'm grateful to have discovered
and wanted to share. Enjoy.

How pretty are these? More than that, I simply love the idea of wearing an apron. Call me old- fashioned, I know, but it reminds me of my grandmother; granted she never wore an apron that fancy but I still *heart* the idea.

Susanna,
You may not be a culinary "queen" but who says you can't look good as the hostess? I've chosen this one for you. Do you like it? I know they are way too pricey, especially for someone as talented as you who could whip one of these up for a fraction of the cost on your own sewing machine. Let me know what you think?

Ever made a pumpkin cake? Come on, you know you're curious. You can learn how here. Simple and clever, minus the silly spider on the plate.

Like cranberry relish/sauce? This sounds yummy. I love anything fruity with meats. This isn't just for Thanksgiving either.

I don't know about you but these little buggers aren't fun to step on, as you can lose your footing, but I certainly *heart* this idea. I never knew they could look so nice. Again, so simple and easy.

Need a little extra touch for a place setting. The elements of outside brought inside bring it all together.

Why not add a lovely hoodie(update: the link didn't want to cooperate. it's the second row, second from the left) to your wardrobe this season. I *heart* this colour. Cool and crisp yet cozy and pretty.

a few things that make me smile

2007-11-06T07:54:00.002+09:00

Although I'm not officially participating in this like my lovely friend is, I can't help but feel that this month is all about being thankful and grateful. Writing my first post for November sparked something inside me. It reminded me of exactly this: being thankful + grateful. Just the sound of those two words feels good, doesn't it?

So in keeping with that, I thought it would be nice to spread some of the goodness. (enjoy)

•I just *love* this sweet, sweet story and of course the gift that prompted the post. I love the reflection of life's journey and the appreciation of growth rather than material things. I *heart* this blog and m's style.

•From above I discovered this place. Simple, creative, fun and sometimes amusing. I like her style. She always shares nifty craft ideas and all kinds of other neat stuff too. I like it!

•This makes me smile *BIG*. This really is what life is all about. Thanks Cate.

I am thankful for all the wonderful woman who blog and share so many amazing things. I am thankful I have the means to have access to such a multitude of information and ideas. I am thankful I can be a part of it.

grateful in difficult times

2007-11-03T13:24:00.001+09:00

the path we walk isn't always easy. whoever said it would be, right? life can be a challenge to us all, to say the least. life is filled with highs and lows. hopefully, the highs far outweigh the lows but sometimes they don't and life feels impossible, overwhelming and more than we can handle.

have you ever felt like that?

this is one of those times for me. i want to it to pass. i know it will. time is a healer. i get impatient and i want the healing process to be done. i want it to pass at the blink of an eye. i want to be on the peak of the mountain, not in the valley but that would be boring and what would i gain or learn if i received instant gratification. how could i grow if i simply skipped over the most important part of the journey. i wouldn't!

through it all, i still manage to count my blessings and they are many. i find comfort in being grateful.

a few things i'm grateful for:

• my adorable niece and nephew in the above photo
• my family
• a home, food to fill my tummy and people who love me
• i was given today, and will appreciate tomorrow
• my health
• jesus
• friendships and laughter

the eleventh month

2007-11-02T06:44:00.001+09:00

Oh it's already November. Can you believe it? I think I say that every year. Here's to November. Eleven things that say November to me:

• Looking forward to colder, crisper, weather. Yes, even in good ol' Southern California.
• Thanksgiving preparations. Where are we all going to gather, who's making which yummy side dish, who's coming in from out of town, how "stuffed" will we all be from over indulging and just thinking about lounging around all day with family.
• Trees having lost all their leaves and gardens are starting to retreat for winter.
• Realising that Christmas is not that far away but not yet used to all of the decorations in the shops.
• Drinking hot cocoa with marshmallows on top.
• Wearing cosy, warm jumpers and loving every moment of it.
• Enjoying warm, hearty soups and savouring each spoonful.
• Receiving invites in the mail to upcoming holiday gatherings from friends and family.
• Going to the voting poles.
• Shorter days and trying to adjust to the darkness at 5:30pm.
• Taking in a live theatre performance with my mom as one of our holiday rituals.

missing you

2007-11-01T09:20:00.001+09:00

I know, I know I should change the title of my blog to "Fallen' Off The Map".

Forgive me. I miss everyone and I miss sharing in this wonderful community of blogging. I sincerely hope to be back to blogging but I have been derailed for a bit and I have had to put blogging aside.

I have every intention of coming back; hopefully with a fresh start.

I can't say it enough so I will say it again. I LOVE and MISS you guys.

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remembering: way back

2007-06-23T16:06:00.000+08:00

Inspired by an email from a friend; this brought back some really fond memories. I made a few changes and it goes something like this:

Memories, aahhhh the memories . . . . .

Close your eyes and go back,
before the internet, PC or the Mac

Before semi-automatics and crack

Before PS2, XBOX, Super Nintendo, Sega and yes even before Atari

Before CD's, DVD's, mobile phones, voicemail and e-mail,
go way back

Way, way back . . . . .

I'm talking about Hide and Seek at dusk

Red Light, Green Light

Red Rover, Red Rover send _______ right over

Playing kickball and dodgeball until the
first, no second, no third street light came on

Ring Around the Rosie

London Bridge

Hot Potato

Hop Scotch

Jump Rope

Duck....Duck....GOOSE!!!

YOU'RE IT!!

Parents stood on the front porch and yelled (or whistled) for you to
come home - no pagers or cell phones

Mother May I?

Hula Hoops (some of us still have it, and I love that!)

Seeing shapes in the clouds (still doing this too!)

Endless summer days and hot summer nights (no A/C) with the
windows open (come on, click the links and sing along, or dance if you want?)

The sound of crickets

Running through the sprinklers

Cereal boxes with that great prize inside

Cracker Jacks with the same thing

Ice pops with 2 sticks you could break and share with a friend

Wait, wait there's more . . . . .

Watching Saturday morning cartoons: Fat Albert, Road Runner, Smurfs, Pink Panther and Schoolhouse Rock

Watching Sunday morning oldies like Abbott & Costello and The Three Stooges

The Six Million Dollar Man and The Bionic Woman

The Fonz, "Aaaaaaaayyyyy"

Catching bugs in a jar

Christmas morning

Your first day of school

Bedtime prayers and goodnight kisses

Climbing trees

Swinging as high as you could to try and reach the sky

Getting an ice ream off the Good Humor Truck

Jumping down the steps

Jumping on the bed

Pillow fights

Sleep-overs

A 13" black and white TV in your room meant you were rich

Running 'til you were out of breath

Laughing so hard that your stomach hurt

Being tired from playing outside

Work meant taking out the garbage or doing the dishes

Your first crush

Your first kiss; the one where you kept your mouth closed and your eyes wide open

Rainy days at school meant playing "Heads up 7UP" or Hangman inside the classroom

Hah, I'm not finished yet. . . . .

Kool-Aid was the drink of summer

So was a swig from the hose

Giving your friends a ride on your handlebars

Wearing your new shoes on the first day of school

Class field trips

Trading your lunch with someone else

When nearly everyone's mom was at home when the kids got there

When a quarter seemed like a fair allowance, and
another quarter a miracle

When any parent could discipline any kid, or feed him, or use him
to carry groceries and nobody, not even the kid, thought a thing of it

When being sent to the principal's office was nothing compared to
the fate that awaited you at home

Basically, we were in fear for our lives but it wasn't because of
drive by shootings, drugs or gangs

Didn't that feel good to go back and say, "Yeah, I remember that"

Well, let's keep going. . . . .

Let's go back to the time when

Decisions were made by going "eeny-meeny-miney-mo"

Mistakes were corrected by simply exclaiming, "do over!"

Race issues meant arguing about who ran the fastest

Money issues were handled by the banker of Monopoly

It wasn't odd to have two or three "best" friends

Being old, referred to anyone over 20 (Darn! I'm officially old!)

The worst thing you could catch from the opposite sex was cooties

Nobody was prettier than Mom

Scrapes and bruises were kissed by mom or grandma and made better

It was a big deal to finally be tall enough to ride the "big people"
rides at the amusement park

Getting a foot of snow was a dream come true

Abilities were discovered because of a "triple-dog-dare-ya"

Spinning around, getting dizzy and falling down was cause for
giggles

The worst embarrassment was being picked last for a team

Water balloons were the ultimate weapon

Older siblings were your worst tormentors, but also your fiercest
protectors

If you can remember some, most or even all of these, then you have LIVED !

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swap: thanks and praise

2007-06-16T14:56:00.003+08:00

Last month I participated in the "box swap" over at Create a Connection, hosted by Holli. I'm going to say it, yet again people, I Love Create a Connection.

I want to send a very big "Merci Beaucoup" to Kristin for the most fabulous and wonderful box. Apologies for it taking me soo long to post about it but I'm slowly getting back after my brief hiatus from bloggiland.

Parcel delivery! Pour moi? I was excited because I love surprises and I love a swap. I knew it was going to be good when I saw how "at home" it already looked resting on my post box. Do come in, I said.

Open it up and what do I see. Mmhhh? Ten Thousand Villages . . . . what is this? Beautiful! It's an organisation that helps those in need. It really doesn't get much better than that.

Well maybe a little better. . . chocolate. Yummy! (Once my eyes laid eyes on those sweet little bits I devoured them up. Come on, they were teensy weensy). Delightful RED earrings and a barrette. Right up my alley. I LOVE RED.

*Kristin, you sweet soul sister, I love my little gems and feel so special because you were so thoughtful.

I especially loved the message Kristin included. She explained she had never particiapted in a swap and wasn't the "crafty" type. Well, no worries Kristin, you did a fantastic job and I am ever so pleased.

The following handwritten words were really the heart of my surprise:

Psalm 100

A psalm. For giving thanks.

¹ Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth.

² Worship the LORD with gladness;
come before him with joyful songs.

³ Know that the LORD is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.

⁴ Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.

⁵ For the LORD is good and his love endures forever;
his faithfulness continues through all generations.

God is so good and His word never comes back void. These words brought tears of joy. That little box could have contained just those words and I would have been content. I do feel truly blessed that Kristin and I were connected via the swap. Neither one of us believes in chance and found comfort that He uses us for His purpose.

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late for my interview

2007-06-09T15:16:00.002+08:00

Hello!

Time to get back into the swing of things. Since I wasn't able to post over the past few weeks I thought I'd get started with a little warm-up post/tag.

Just before I departed a few weeks ago to start the "project" I mentioned (more about that later), I signed up to be interviewed by my dear friend sognatrice over at bleeding espresso. In keeping my word, here it goes:

Question: Politics: Don't get me started or I wouldn't know where to start?

Definitely not one of my favorite topics and, to be honest, I can't say I know a lot about politics, in general. What I can say is this: Obviously, the war in Iraq is "the" hot topic politically. When I think about all the discussion and debate about the war my mind begins to spin.
What sticks out in my mind, if we want to speak politically, is all of the finger pointing and blaming. It seems many can stand back and point out all the "wrong doings", be critical of others and find fault, yet I wonder how many people are willing to actually do something rather than complain about it?

Question: Would you prefer a partner to be smarter and/or more attractive than you?

Is this a trick question?
I find my husband's "know how" extremely attractive. He is clever about things I have no idea about and I think it's a good balance. I also think he's gorgeous. I never considered him smarter or more attractive because I have never used myself as a measure for his qualities. I think we are both smart and attractive together, as one.

Question: What is the one thing you'd really like to do well but don't yet?

Manage my time better. I think I've improved but I still struggle, and perhaps I always will, and being somewhat of a perfectionist doesn't help.

Question: Is it easy for you to tell people "no"?

For the most part, yes. There are certain circumstances and situations that may be difficult but I'm rather out spoken and strong in this regard.

Question: Madonna or Cher?

I never was a fan of Cher. I never really gave her much thought. I'm definitely more familiar with Madonna and like a certain selection of the music she has made.

*I know I'm late in getting to this but in case anyone wants to participate here are the rules for this même:

1. Leave me a comment saying "Interview me."

2. I will respond by emailing you five questions. I get to pick the questions.

3. You will update your blog with the answers to the questions.

4. You will include this explanation and an offer to interview someone else in the same post.

5. When others comment asking to be interviewed, you will ask them five questions.

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hosting

2007-05-31T12:19:00.001+08:00

I wanted to let you all know I'm hosting the swap over at Create a Connection. Come check it out and see for yourself.

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i'm still alive, promise . . . .

2007-05-29T11:13:00.000+08:00

Hello Everyone!

I've been away from the blog as I am in the middle of a big project at the moment. I hope to be back catching up with everyone in the next couple of weeks. I look forward to reading what everyone has been up to. I MISS all of you. You can always drop me a hello via email. I would love to hear from you.

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spc: on the street (3)

2007-05-16T14:00:00.001+08:00

behind a canine, © cheeky 2007

"Dogs teach us about faith, trust and devotion. They teach us how to devotedly serve a higher master, how to attend and wait and how to let go of a grudge. But most of all, they teach us about the meaning and experience of unconditional love." – lama surya das

UPDATE: I feel that I may have unintentionally been misleading with this photo. I am NOT the blond sitting down. I am in the photo, just not all of me. Literally, behind a canine is where I am. Originally, I was going to crop out the blond because I didn't want it to be assumed it was me, although I do understand that naturally one would easily draw this conclusion. Sorry folks. It's not me and I'm not blond. I kept the two on the left in the photo because they added to the life of this moment and it didn't feel the same with out them.
*Wasp, I can't take credit for the expression and hope I haven't disappointed? Sorry.

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much obliged: 4 things même

2007-05-14T00:37:00.002+08:00

It was a bit of a même-a-thon for me recently. I did this, this and this all relatively close to one another.

Being the wonderful sport that I am, I refuse to disappoint or let down the lovely sognatrice who kindly tagged me for this. Besides, now I can repay her the favor, guilt free, when I need to. That's my understanding of how this works and besides what are friends for, right? Right. (tee hee)

Stick around as I may even add a second post today. I'm feeling a little ambitious as I haven't posted the last few days and I may be having blogger withdrawals. Great! I already have BCSS and now I could have BWS (Blogger Withdrawal Syndrome).

4 Things même. Here it goes:

4 Jobs I've held:
1. Summer Recreation Counselor (Summer job between uni breaks - loads of fun).
2. Hostess at a French Restaurant ( The owners were French; husband & wife team. He was "the" chef and she ran the place. He could be a real pain, and she was particular but we were a small group and all of us were tight. Besides, I had a free meal everyday and it was ever so yummy).
3. Placement Representative for a temporary employment agency (Hands down, worst job ever!)
4. Flight Attendant (aka: Stewardess - for those wanting to use the archaic term, Trolley Dolly, Air Hostess and my favorite "Oh Miss").

4 Movies I can watch over and over:
1. A Christmas Story (and I do every year at Christmas)
2. National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation (again, a funny, LOL, movie I enjoy at Christmas)
3. Braveheart
4. Sliding Doors

4 Places I've lived:
1. Kensington, London, England
2. Leideneck, der Hünsruck, Germany
3. Perth, WA, Australia
4. Southern California, USA

4 Categories of television programming I enjoy:
1. Any DIY/Home/Cooking shows: Better Homes & Gardens Australia, Backyard Blitz, or any of the many great shows on HGTV. Any show that shares how-to projects, craft ideas, recipes, etc.
2. Travel shows: Postcards WA, The Great Outdoors. Any good travel show with sound travel tips/advice.
3. History documentaries, biographies, etc
4. Animal Planet: I usually end up "boo-hooing" like a baby but I simply can't help myself.

4 Places I have been on holiday:
1. Greece
2. Hawaiian Islands
3. Frisian Islands, off the coast of the Netherlands and Germany
4. The Caribbean

4 of my favorite dishes:
1. My grandmother's sauerkraut, pork and dumplings
2. real Greek yogurt and fresh fruit drizzled with honey
3. Buttered potatoes mash with gravy made from the meat drippings. I know, heart attack-on-a-plate, but it's worth every enjoyable bite. Sometimes it's good to be bad!
4. Grilled white fish, hummus, tabouli, lentil soup, olives and toasted pita

4 Websites I visit daily:
1. Google
2. Yahoo
3. My employer
4. Apple

4 Places I'd rather be right now
1. Wrapped, or what we call koeksister, with SAM anywhere. Koeksister is a sweet treat but because it's braided it has adopted a slang meaning "entangled, wrapped up closely" with your partner when used in that context.
2. Laying face down on a massage table for the next hour and a half enjoying pure bliss.
3. Strolling the streets of Paris with my man, browsing antiques, capturing photos of Parisian life, a little koeksister in the park while gazing at the Eiffel Tower, enjoying long delicious meals and not having a care in the world except for the moment we were in.
4. South Africa with the entire family visiting and enjoying each other.

I now pronounce you "tagged":

Cate: I know you want to.
Waspgoddess: We both like a même, now and again, right?
Karen Beth: I know Karen Beth likes a good même also.
Vanessa: I know you were tagged by sognatrice also, and I thought you might as well kill two birds with one stone while you are at it. Besides, you are great at doing these.

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my sunday seven

2007-05-07T11:16:00.001+08:00

This is a collection of 7 entries, not a même, although there are two of those thrown in. (Sunday Scribblings is #7 )

1) Blogger had me in a minor “tizzy fit” on Friday. Let’s just say I have now renamed it Bugger and even Booger. I had read on other blogs about the frustrations with Blogger and the final straw that drove the authors to abandon Blogger altogether, but this wasn’t happening in my little Blogger world, so no worries, right? Wrong! I typed, it disappeared, I uploaded, it didn’t cooperate, I changed font size, and it didn’t take. Perhaps I had spoken too soon? There I sat Friday, biting my tongue and really using restraint to hold back the ugly words on the tip of my tongue. Confession: a few slipped under my breath, sorry. Just two months of Blogger and I was considering abandoning ship with the others. Someone once stated, Blogger drove them to binge eat. I didn’t get it then, but oh I get it now. I wanted to chuck my laptop out the window, for a minute, due to my frustration; knowing full well it had nothing to do with my laptop. I was just plain irritated. We have since kissed and made up.

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2) Friday’s Feast 142:

Appetizer
Name something you would not want to own.
• A Hummer. I think it’s the most ridiculous, waste of a vehicle and I simply do not get it. They keep getting bigger and bigger.

Soup
Describe your hair (texture, color, length, etc.).
•Fine but lots of it, red/brown (in need of cut & colour), long, naturally wavy/curly.

Salad
•Finish this sentence: I’ll never forget __________.
I’ll never forget my mom dropping me off at school one morning and I was in a hurry, as usual. It was raining and my mom reminded me not to run. I said I wouldn’t but I couldn’t help myself. Let’s just say it was in between walking and running. I slipped onto my bum about 20 feet later, humiliated and wearing white. Not the best start to a morning but luckily the halls were nearly empty, as everyone else had already made it to class.

Main Course
Which famous person would you like to be for one day? Why?
• Mother Theresa. I would honestly like to know what it feels like to be so selfless, and completely giving to the poorest of the poor. I’m guessing it would be a huge wake-up call.

Dessert
•Write one sentence about yourself that includes one thing that is true and another thing that is not.
I’m skipping this because I honestly can’t think of anything worth putting down.

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3) My blog visiting habits: I visit a blog, read any new posts, leave a comment when moved to do so, and then I get curious. I might read other comments and click on another link. Mmhh . . . . I think, “What’s this blog all about? Focus, stay focused”, I tell myself. My mind is racing, and before I know it I’m All Over The Map. (More about this to follow) “Don’t look at the sidebar links, don’t do it”, I’m thinking. I do it anyway. I have now linked so many times I forgot where I started. You know what a kid in a candy store is like? Well this is what I call BCSS. Blogging: Candy Store Syndrome. Now I already stated this, but please, oh please tell me again I’m not alone. C’mon you know you want to divulge you’re a BCSS sufferer also.

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• Are you still with me? I know I have a few readers reading but not commenting. Come on now, don’t be shy.
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4) The title of my blog has changed. I think this is the one. Stay tuned, as I will be making adjustments until I tweak it to my satisfaction.

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5) 7 random things/habits about me:
•I installed StatCounter recently. I don’t know about you, but it feels a little like Big Brother watching. It’s strange yet fascinating in an odd way.
•I am thinking about doing a 30-day TV fast. Want to join me? I have a love/hate relationship with television in general.
•I brush my teeth with a Sonicare. A regular toothbrush does not cut it for me; my teeth do not feel clean.
•I never took typing in school. It wasn’t compulsory and I had no interest. I still don’t have “proper” typing skills but they are sufficient for me. I think I’m pretty quick. I will have to do a
speed test online.
•I have a pet rat. Are you squeamish? We had two, originally for the kids, but one died.
•I’ve been known to grind/clinch my teeth at night. I know, isn’t that just lovely. It’s more of a rarity these days but I do have a bite plate just in case. (That may have been TMI?)
•I don’t use email as a means of thanking someone. I still believe in a good old hand written note. The sentiment is much more personal, wouldn’t you agree?

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6) I discovered cupcake bakeshop recently. I am very excited about this place. If you like cup cakes as much as I do you will love it too. Go see for yourself.

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7) Sunday Scribblings: #58 Ocean

Mystical, magical, massive
and deep,
Beyond comprehension
lay the stories beneath

Adventure and discovery
allure the heart,
Calling out they whisper
seducing the explorer within

On treacherous waters
did ships set sail,
Voyages attempted, continents connected
that once lay divided

Elusive, destructive
quiet in strength,
Her powerful nature unexpected
unleashed its force

Sunken ships remain
lost amid her powerful hold,
The souls laid to rest
were loyal it was told

At her deepest depths
on the bottom of the floor,
Mercy, mercy my friend
lives no more

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love: via the post

2007-05-05T06:02:00.002+08:00

Last week found me exhausted and sleep deprived, and I longed to be home and fall into my own bed. I finally made it home, only to be pleasantly greeted with a parcel waiting for me that had come all the way from New Zealand. Yippee!

"What", you ask, was in this parcel? Well allow me to share. Inside was a handcrafted, turquoise blue journal, a lovely note card including a heartwarming message, a cd (made for "moi") and a delicate heart ornament.

journal

I love the idea that the purchase of this journal benefits those less fortunate. Visit Trade Aid and check it out for your self.

•I love my journal and it will be put to much needed use. I hope to share pieces of it in future posts.
•The heart ornament is already adorning a special place. It's hanging over a family photo that is a very special photo in this house.
•The cd is perfect. I've listened to it several times, enjoying it more each time and becoming familiar with each song. It's so appropriate.

note card, Trade Aid pamphlet & cd

The note card reads as follows:
Here are some goodies for you. I really hope you enjoy them!
*I chose the journal because of who made it & how (and to give them my support)
*The heart is to remind you to always look for love in this world.
*The cd is 100% New Zealand for you to enjoy listening to as you write in your journal.

love and laughter, Leonie xx

heart ornament

This journal swap started here. As it turned out, the person who was given my name went missing in action and I was never able to connect with her. I did try, and naturally, I was disappointed but still it wasn't a complete loss, as I had made a connection with Jone. You can see the journal I passed to her here. Jone is a talented writer of poetry, and she's a librarian. Librarians are very interesting people who I find to have a wealth of knowledge.

Fortunately, the lovely Melba of CaC passed my name to Leonie who heard my giver went MIA and she wanted to send me "goodies". Leonie will soon be busy with travel so she declined any "goodies" from me. (I want so badly to send her something lovely so I will wait.)

In a way, I am grateful my giver went MIA because if she hadn't I wouldn't have received the lovely items I did and have the opportunity to connect with Leonie.

Leonie, thank you, thank you. I am touched by your sincerity, thoughtfulness and kindness. We love by our actions, not our words. I see LOVE all around and I promise to always look for love in this world.

Love Thursday, even if it is a Friday.

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99 things about "moi"

2007-05-03T01:19:00.001+08:00

*The “infamous” 100 things . . .
but I only did 99 because I wanted to be different!

1) I don’t drink coffee, just espresso. Never picked up the habit! I know I’m the odd girl out on this one, but I never developed a taste for it. I do love the smell of a coffee shop. Yummy.
2) I love dogs. I mean “really” love ‘em. They really can do no wrong in my book.
3) I have a close relationship with my parents. I adore them and I am grateful for them. I can’t imagine going through life not being close with them.
4) I don’t like mushrooms. Never have. Never will!
5) I love sport. Soccer is my first love. I enjoy competing as well as spectating. No, I’m not on a team now. There are woman’s teams . . . . . . . no laughing I could still join!
6) I went to university, and even graduated! Uni isn’t for everyone but it was for me and I am grateful for the experience.
7) I am a slow eater. I can be quick if I must. I have my grandfather to thank for that. He drilled it into my head growing up. It always draws a comment of some sort. Many of my friends like to remind me, as if I didn’t know. It’s better to eat slow anyway, so hah!
8) I’ve also been told I eat methodically. OK? I guess because I keep it neat on the plate, no not intentionally, and don’t mush everything about I’m methodical? I’m not bothered if different foods touch each other. (No, I’m not one of those people!) I just pay special attention to my food, it tastes better that way.
9) I am not a picky eater. I will try just about anything, for the most part, but still say “no” to the mushroom.
10) I enjoy travel. When I think of all the amazing places I have seen I realise there are far more I have not seen. There are still so many destinations I hope to enjoy.
11) I currently work as a flight attendant, and have done so for the last 13 years. It has been a great job and I will miss it, no doubt, when I’m finished.
12) I love book stores. I can spend hours in them, but I don’t think I am alone with this sentiment.
13) I am not a fan of the fast food but have to admit, reluctantly, I have out of pure laziness eaten it which is pathetic at best!
14) I have never worn fake nails. I never intend to. I like my own. Thanks mom for the strong nails.
15) I was stung by a bee once. A friend went to swat it away and sent it right at me, landing on my lip where it decided to sting me. It hurt and yes it swelled.
16) I learned to drive on a manual. A 1971 Volkswagon Beetle. Yep, passed my driver's test in it too! I have friends who find this amazing? Doesn't everyone know how to drive "stick"? That was what we had so I didn't have a choice. My mom taught me and we still have a few laughs about it.
17) I love learning foreign languages. They fascinate me. I think everyone should learn at least one other language besides their native tongue.
18) “I’m working on that!” is my new adopted phrase and you will hear me refer to it often. I didn’t plan it, I just caught myself saying it, A LOT.
19) I love crafting , designing or just being creative.
20) I have a lot of things that interest me, sometimes making it difficult for me to stay focused.
21) I like to talk, a lot sometimes. Other times, I enjoy being quiet, sitting back and observing life around me.
22) I enjoy my alone time and treasure it.
23) I have never sky dived. I would like to. It’s not a burning desire, but I’d like to try it. The feeling of free falling thrills me.
24) I love candles.(How unoriginal but I do) Especially the nice, warm scented ones that smell up the place.
25) I enjoy working in the garden. I like to get my hands dirty. It’s another place to create a lovely space. I can just enjoy and marvel at the beautiful surroundings around me.
26) I love to cook. I don’t do it as much as I should. I’m working on that!
27) I love to enjoy food, every morsel yes indeed! I enjoy all the tastes. I don't know if I can say I have one favourite. I can't! I like variety and besides I'm indecisive. A few faves are: Thai, Indian, Mexican and Lebanese. Then there's Italian, French, Middle Eastern, Chinese and the good ol' Cheeseburger and Chips. See I told you I couldn't choose one.
28) I love city life but appreciate space and peace and I feel more connected when I am away from things. Ideally, I like to be far enough away with space but close enough to “convenience” when I need it.
29) I LOVE the internet. It’s fascinating, and down right convenient. I am all about convenience, well most of the time.
30) I love the rain. I love the smell and the overall feeling that it brings.
31) I really enjoy a good read. I tend to go in spurts with reading and I have a stack of books I want to tackle.
32) I enjoy going to the movies but find that I am more particular, these days, with finding something acceptable.
33) I do NOT like the heat. Especially extreme heat, makes me miserable.
34) I don’t like humidity either but can tolerate it if necessary.
35) I don’t smoke.
36) I have some ADD characteristics. Please tell me everyone does, or I’m going to be really disappointed.
37) I love and appreciate my friends.
38) I once awoke in the middle of the night with a cockroach crawling across my face, yep that’s right cockroach! I’m sick thinking about it, urghh.....!
39) If a dish is served with a sauce, I usually want extra of that sauce. I think I enjoy the flavor of the sauce more than the actual food itself, sometimes.
40) I’m tall. 5’9” I wouldn’t mind being a bit taller, say another inch.
41) I really love performing arts. The Theatre, The Ballet, The Opera, to name a few. Anything musical is great.
42) I love decorating for Christmas and thoroughly enjoy all the festivities. Jesus is the reason for the season and I embrace that.
43) I prefer to live near the ocean, or at least a decent driving distance from it.
44) I am not a fan of the desert, hence #33, in particular, but it does have it’s beauty and I can appreciate that.
45) I do love green rolling hills, sheep out to pasture, heavy drizzle falling, smoke billowing from chimneys and long winding roads. That’s my ideal countryside.
46) I love the smell of a home cooked meal seeping through the entire house.
47) I adore the the sight of a dog curled up and comfy inside his master’s home.
48) I do not sunbathe. I love the outdoors but can do without the damaging effects of the sun.
49) I love to wear hats, all sorts. Hats have personality and they are fun. I do not wear them as often as I would like. Should I be working on that? LOL
50) When I was 11 years old I bought myself a brand new, red, 5-speed, Schwinn Beach Cruiser for $225.00. (I still own her. She needs a bit of a clean-up) I saved every penny myself. I was entering middle school, which was a further walk, so I needed wheels. I was so proud of that accomplishment, and still am. Learning the importance of saving money and learning to use it wisely is......... well, priceless (no pun intended!).
51) I have lived in four countries. (USA, UK, Germany and Australia)
52) Please and thank you are a regular part of my vocabulary. Wouldn’t it be nice if they were for everyone?
53) I love music. All sorts, really.
54) Greece is, probably, my favorite destination. (It is hard to narrow it down to one)The cuisine is heaven. (Again, another “thing” about food) Everything else is lovely too.
55) I admire people who follow their hearts. The person who says “I can” and let’s no obstacle stand in their way. The person who sees the positive, not the negative and makes good with the circumstances at hand. To all of you, I salute you!
56) My favorite drink is fresh orange. Mmhh yummy!
57) Packing a suitcase is an organised sort of science for me. Packing efficiently and effectively takes a lot of practice. Perhaps my job has had something to do with that?
58) I have never had a moving violation. (a ticket) I don’t drive like a granny, either, I’ve just been extremely lucky.
59) Broken a bone? Nope, none here.
60) Stitches? Yes, 26 to be exact. All in my face at the tender age of 22 months old. Grandparent’s dog. So sad really. My mom said she was in horror when she saw my face. Hey I turned out ok. Doc stitched me up and the scar healed really well. It never made me afraid of dogs. Thank goodness for that.
61) I do not like really strong winds. We have The Santa Ana’s where I am from and they are awful. They are high speed and hot. Makes a mess of everything.
62) I use a mac, not a PC. If it takes 5 steps on a PC it takes 1 on a mac. Just a fact and the main reason, ok well there are others, why I stay loyal to the mac.
63) I can be stubborn, sometimes. Ok maybe a little bit more than sometimes?
64) I like a challenge.
65) I don’t drink diet drinks, nor do I use artificial sweetener. YUCK!
66) I won’t consume, knowingly, anything with artificial sweetener.
67) Guilty pleasures of choice . . . . . . . Coca Cola and crisps, on occasion.
68) Men with long fingernails? Need I say anything more? Gross!
69) I don’t own a microwave. Never was a big fan but after I learned what microwave does to food, and it isn’t good, it was an easy choice to get rid of it.
70) When I was in primary school a boy punched me right square in the face and gave me a fat lip. All because I told him “Girls can do things just as good as boys.” Guess he didn’t agree.
71) I miss my dogs. Kaschmir and Newton. Oh, I really miss them. *sigh....*
72) When I lived in Germany I had the wonderful opportunity of attending The 1992 Winter Olympics In Albertville, France. What a wonderful week filled with loads of skiing and watching the amazing athletes compete. It was incredible and I want to experience The Olympics again.
73) I have no desire to scuba dive, even though people tell me it is amazing and I’d change my mind if I tried. No thanks! I’m stubborn.
74) When I do something, anything, I do it with love and commitment. Incomplete projects, of any sort, really nag at me and bring me down.
75) I believe in Jesus Christ as my Lord and Saviour.
76) I have some insecurities. I hate to admit that, but it’s the truth. I don’t need to list them, trust me they exist.
77) I played violin when I was younger. I still have it and want to pick it up again but I need a teacher.
78) I also want to learn to play the piano. My grandmother played and so did my mom. I learned a little but not properly. I have a desire to do that.
79) My mother raised me as a single parent. I never had a relationship with my natural father. His choice. My mom remarried when I was 21 and that is who I call dad. I love you mom and dad.
80) I enjoy making connections with people. I am interested in other people, their passions, their talents and the beauty I soak up from knowing such people.
81) I talk in a funny, “cutesie” voice to my pets, when I am alone. Go ahead and laugh, I know it’s down right silly.
82) I use two towels after I shower. One for my hair and the other for the body. I don’t need a new towel each time I shower. I use the same ones until I decide they are ready for the laundry. I know people who must have a fresh towel each time. Why? I always thought I was clean after I showered, and besides I do the laundry!
83) I’m a native Southern Californian, which apparently is a rarity these days? I guess we are becoming fewer and fewer?
84) With that said; No I don’t drive a convertible, have blond hair or talk like a valley girl. I don’t live under the “Hollywood” sign and there’s been no nipping, tucking, poking, prodding, lifting, injecting, enhancing, sucking or any other “ing” done here.
85) I feel cautious about sharing anything too personal in here. I am a private person in that respect.
86) I don’t like to be in a rush. I take time to enjoy my friends and I cannot be bothered hurrying through a meal, especially out to eat. Why bother?
87) Which brings me to the next point. I enjoy the company I am with when I am socialising with friends. I cannot understand people who can’t unglue the mobile from their ear or have got 20 other places to be.
88) I wouldn’t say I had one favourite colour, but I tend to gravitate toward red. I like pink too.
89) My passport is filled with entry/exit stamps from Japan. I use to do a lot of travel their for work, and they stamp each entry and each departure. I had to get extra pages in my passport because of that. I spent so much tome there I got bored, now I miss it and want to go back. Typical!
90) I’m feeling a bit opinionated making all these “I” statements. I do feel strongly about my beliefs but I don’t force them on anyone else, I like to tend my own garden, thanks very much.
91) If I had excessive money I would have an on-call, personal masseuse at my disposal. That’s luxury for me.
92) I don’t like to have dirty or sticky hands. OK I don’t have OCD; I just like to have clean hands.
93) I don’t have a proper name for my blog yet, although I just changed it and I think it’s the one. Yeah, I’m working on that.
94) I think about food a lot as I mentioned in #’s 4, 7, 8, 9, 13, 26, 27, 39, 46, 54, 66, 67 and 86. If I missed any, let me know.
95) I thought I wanted to be a surgeon when I entered university. I changed my mind my junior year.
96) If I am feeling just ok, I want to be able to say that. I had a boss that was a phony. One day someone asked me how I was and I said “I’m ok, thanks.” My phony boss, interjected and said “she’s great!” I wanted to vomit right there on the floor. I can answer for myself, ty very much, and I’m not going to “sugarcoat” things so everything appears wonderful, and phony. It wasn’t like I stood there and played the poor me, life is so miserable and gave off a bunch of negative energy; I simply responded honestly. I like honesty and genuineness.
97) I’m thirty-nine. Is that even relevant, or important?
98) I cannot sleep with the top sheet on the bed all tucked in. It feels like I’m in an envelope, not that I would really know what that feels like. If I’m in a hotel, first thing I do is un-tuck all of the bedding. I’ve tried to keep it tucked in and it drives me bonkers.
99) I am obsessed, at the moment, with web design. I am not stating I know much (ok I know close to zilch) but I am on a mission. I want to learn about graphic arts and all the mediums so I can have a good looking bloggie. I want to do it myself too. "I'm working on that."

may

2007-05-02T10:22:00.000+08:00

•It's the 5th month of the year
•It's one of 7 months with 31 days
•It begins with "M" along with March
•May's birth flower is the Lily of The Valley which means "You Will Find Happiness"
•May's birthstone is the emerald
•May in the northern hemispere is the seasonal equivalent to November in the southern hemisphere
•The bird of May is the nightingale
•May along with March both have double meaning and can be used in a different context

May Makes Me Think Of:
May Day
and literally
"May Day, May Day"
Cinco de Mayo
Mother's Day
"Mother May I ?"
My grandfather's birthday
Memorial Day
Summer nearing and school finishing *cheers*
The annual May Parade and carnival that used to roll through my home town
The May flowers brought by April's showers

What does May make you think of?

spc: body parts (4) uproot

2007-04-25T13:56:00.001+08:00

(bamboo, Hawaii ©cheeky)

Still resonating with me is the prompt from this weeks Sunday Scribblings, Rooted.

I took this photo earlier in the week and I decided to use it for this weeks SPC. My hand is holding on to a really tall shoot of bamboo. There was this cluster of amazingly tall bamboo shoots that stood out so I grabbed hold. As I looked at the photo again, I couldn’t help but think about what that bamboo represents and I came back to the meaning of rooted.

While I am deeply rooted in my hometown, and have strong ties, I realize it is the emotional feed I cling to so dearly. I am about to move, not house, but country. A new journey begins. It’s all about timing and I recognize the emotional roots come from a sense of security, the security from familiarity, family and friends. I worry that I won’t develop these roots and have that security, and I want that security badly; I need it. I want it to be waiting for me when I arrive, even though I know this idea is complete foolishness and fantasy, all this worry from the girl who loves a new adventure. I have had to face the fact that change is harder for me than I want to admit, and I don’t like that. It makes me feel, inadequate in some strange way.

I will have to say goodbye to comfort and familiarity and all of my friends and family, but I know it’s not forever. We will still be connected even though a huge distance will separate us. It will only be a separation of geography. Even though I have worry, I know I will make new friends, create new memories and in time I will view my new home as comfortable and familiar. I will because I believe.

three things: a même

2007-04-24T13:28:00.000+08:00

*tagged by Cherrye

THREE THINGS THAT SCARE ME:
1. Being raped. Isn't this awful. It weirds me out just typing it. I don't have any fear of bugs, heights, crowds, any phobias or things like that but when I think of acts of violence, I fear them. I don't live in paranoia or anything but it's the one thing that really disturbs me.
2. Someone invading my home when I'm in it. When I am alone I have had thoughts of someone sneaking up on me. What would I do? Ok I am sounding like a nutter here, but I promise I'm not.
3. Intolerant, racist and mean-spirited people. I'm not in fear, but the ideas they spread to others scares me.

THREE PEOPLE WHO MAKE ME LAUGH:
1. My husband
2. My niece Caitlin
3. My girlfriend Rhonda

THREE THINGS I LOVE:
Aside from God/Friends/Family
1. Fellowship with woman. Women were made to lift one another up and this is why I love my Bible Study group. We are ranged in age from 26 to 70; there are about 15 of us, which is small and intimate. It's the most dynamic group of woman I have ever been with.
2. Travel. I love the whole experience beginning to end. I like the feeling that comes over me when I step into an airport and the anticipation of the flight and arriving at the destination. The possibilities, the adventures, the people, the cultures, the unknown and the cuisine. An exchange with a new place, a different language and a different culture. The thought of all of it gets my imagination running wild. Even a couple hours drive to somewhere new can involve many of the same sentiments for me.
3. Animals. I love the connection I feel with animals. I have total respect and compassion for the preservation of animals and their habitat. I love being around them. Pets provide an unconditional love that is so precious.

THREE THINGS I HATE:
1. Self doubt
2. Mean-spirited behaviour
3. Lack of Compassion

THREE THINGS I DON'T UNDERSTAND:
1. Why it only took only one person to take prayer out of our public schools (here in the US); yet it is nearly impossible with the voice of thousands to bring it back.
2. People who think the world owes them?
3. Why is Paris Hilton a celebrity? Why is society so fascinated with celebrities?

THREE THINGS ON MY DESK:
1. Quite a bit of clutter that shouldn't be here. I think the question should be, what isn't on my desk?
2. Fotos of Kaschmir and Newton (My dogs who are no longer with me).
3. iPod

THREE THINGS I'M DOING RIGHT NOW:
1. Thinking more deeply about some of the things I mentioned in this même. It's provoking thought about prayer, people, intolerance, lack of moral character, etc. I know, it sounds really heavy but it's where my heart is at the moment.
2. Thinking about how hungry I am and that I need to eat, pronto!
3. Thinking about other stuff I should be doing besides sitting in front of this laptop. I'm officially addicted and I hate that I have to admit it.

THREE THINGS I WANT TO DO BEFORE I DIE:
1. Have my life totally organised and not leave behind a mess of junk that my family has to sort through. I want to be simplified. Not saying I don't want my "stuff" but I'm not taking it with me so the less I have the better for those I leave behind. (I'm in trouble if I die tomorrow)
2. Live each day as if it were my last. Be grateful for all that I have been afforded.
3. Know that my life and my actions, at least the majority of it, were honourable and edifying to God.

THREE THINGS I CAN DO:
1. Whistle so loud it hurts your ears.
2. Parallel park a 20-foot vehicle in a 20 foot 2 inch space if I had to. Heck, I might even be able to parallel park a naval ship?
3. Sustain the pain of four kidney stones.

THREE THINGS I CAN'T DO:
1. The splits. Well, not anymore but I want to. Ok it’s been years but I’m still hopeful.
2. Resist my husband’s gorgeous, full lips. (sorry, mushy I know but it did come to my mind)
3. Swim the butterfly stroke

THREE THINGS I THINK YOU SHOULD LISTEN TO:
1. Your gut instinct
2. God's voice
3. The laughter of children

THREE THINGS YOU SHOULD NEVER LISTEN TO:
1. Intolerant, racist and mean-spirited people.
2. That voice that tells you it's ok, when in fact it's NOT ok.
3. The feelings of insecurity or doubt that try to convince you it's hopeless.

THREE THINGS I'D LIKE TO LEARN:
1. HTML, web design and graphic arts. I know just a wee bit and I’m really interested in this stuff.
2. How to knit. I learned to crochet but I haven’t learned to knit yet.
3. Play the piano properly. There are so many more things I could list. Maybe I’ll start working on that list.

THREE FAVORITE FOODS:
1. Potatoes mash & gravy ( I know total comfort food)
2. Insalate Caprese
3. A hot plate of Mexican Food with beans and rice, chips and salsa. Any authentic Mexican place, what we call a hole in the wall, where Mexicans are not only preparing the food, they are eating there too. I think this is the best feature of Southern California; a surplus of Mexican Food.

THREE SHOWS I WATCHED AS A KID:
1. The Brady Bunch
2. Schoolhouse Rock
3. Gomer Pyle re-runs

THREE THINGS I REGRET:
*I don’t have regrets but I do wish I would have done some things differently, or made better choices.

1. Not joining the swim team instead of running track. I never learned good technique and after doing a few triathlons it would be helpful to have a better swimming background. It’s not too late, I know, to still get in some good swim lessons.
2. Which brings me to this: I’m no longer in good physical condition like I was and I want to be again. Why did I stop?
3. Procrastinating. I’m much better but I made a lot of things more difficult and stressful because of this. I’ve also avoided doing things because I allowed myself to get overwhelmed and instead did nothing. That’s paralyzing and not a good place to be.

sunday scribblings: #56 - rooted

2007-04-22T16:39:00.001+08:00

(Banyon Tree Hilo, Hawaii © cheeky)

The last three years of my life have been the most trying and difficult of times. There have been some major life changes and a few low points I’d rather forget, but even in the darkest of times I have still been blessed with love and goodness. Let’s just say, this isn’t what I had planned for my life nor was it where I thought I would be at this point in my life. If someone would have asked me prior to this what I’d being doing and where my life would take me; I never, in a million years, would have imagined where I am now. It has also been a period of significant personal growth, sometimes beyond my understanding.

What I have recognized is that I am rooted. Rooted deeply, here in my hometown and it’s okay. I was fascinated and interested at an early age to travel, learn a language foreign to my own and live in another country different than my own, and I did. I craved the experience. My grandfather always said it was the gypsy in me. I use to see returning to where I am from as boring, maybe even unacceptable because I had planned out this adventurous and exciting life for myself. My life would be different and interesting and I believed I couldn’t achieve that if I came back. I thought it would somehow nullify the experiences I did have.

I was wrong. I did move back and will soon move again. This time with more perspective and understanding of what I leave. I have a deeper appreciation of where I grew up and my life here is not boring; it is, and has been, adventurous, exciting, different and interesting. These things are not created by where you live but by how you live. I have come full circle and being rooted is what I crave. I will allow myself to be planted on new ground. I will nurture that ground in hopes of being rooted, yet again.

*For other Sunday Scribblers go here.

self-portrait challenge: body parts (3)

2007-04-18T11:51:00.001+08:00

FEET. I am completely challenged today, feeling blocked creatively and unable to even express myself in words, but I can still stand on my own two feet.

sunday scribblings: #55 - Secret Identity

2007-04-16T03:39:00.001+08:00

Stellar Wife
Example of Compassion
Chef Extraordinaire
Resourceful Artist
Exemplary Mother
True Confidant

Innovative Designer
Decent and Credible Writer
Exceptional Blogger
Never Give Up Individual
Tried-and-true Friend
Immaculate Keeper of The House
Tender Shoulder to Cry On
Yummy Baker and Cake Maker

*These are the secret identities I aspire to be. A girl can dream, can't she?

colouring outside the lines

2007-04-15T04:10:00.001+08:00

Lately, I have been jotting, scribbling and doodling thoughts, words, phrases, or whatever comes to mind(in part because of this); a type of journaling, only minus the journal. (One of the reasons I am delighted about the journal swap). I do have a couple of journals but I never journaled consistently or fully utilized them. Now that I have a blog, I need a place to jot all these ideas down.

Something told me to keep these pieces, just in case, and well, I did just that. I held on to these scribbles, even if they are on hotel notepads and restaurant napkins. Voilà!

In one my posts, titled hope, I included a link to this post over at Tongue in Cheek. After linking it to my post, I read it again, only this time clicking on a link in that post, titled speak of rebirth, which I had missed the first time around.

There it was, a beautiful blog banner with the title Colouring Outside The Lines. I understand these words are not completely original in their text, or that they haven’t been widely used but for me they meant so much more. Those four words, and the context in which I had spoken them, had been a story shared in my family for a long time. A little girl who just happened to be very particular about her things, and her doings (and still is in some ways) could not understand why a little boy would purposely make a mess of things.

Let’s go back a few years, more specifically to my early childhood. As told by my mother. One day a fellow playmate and me were involved with some crayons and colouring books, mind you these were my colouring books. I became upset and started to cry, the frustrated, how dare he, whining cry (moms, you know this whine) and my mom asked, “What’s the matter?” I replied tearfully, “He’s colouring outside the lines!” I was not happy, and after all, if he wanted to mess things up shouldn’t he be doing it in his own colouring book. I mean really, the nerve!

Seeing the title “Colouring Outside The Lines”, made me think of that little girl and I laughed. Yes, the story still gets laughs from the family, all at my expense, of course; but what really got me was I had just recently jotted this down on a napkin.

biscuits, oatmeal and bottled water

2007-04-12T05:09:00.001+08:00

Aloha kakahiaka (Good morning) from the Big island of Hawaii.

I've become a dedicated bloggie nut and I couldn't resist the opportunity to say "morning"(ok closer to noon but who's keeping track?) and tell you how my day began.

Yep! There it is people, my brekkie. I know, I know, you're feeling a bit envious right about now, your mind drifting off, picturing yourself in front of two disintegrated biscuit wrappers that had been floating around at the bottom of a bag for sometime now, a paper cup filled with instant oatmeal and a plastic fork and some bottled water to wash it all down.

This is life, is it not?

Real, not dressed up or even remotely glamorous; just the unedited version of a morning's beginning.

This routine event is just a moment, one of many, that will connect with all the others and collectively create today, my day.

While the routine brekkie moment was passing another one was beginning, and the two merged for a moment, making the routine all the more enjoyable.

This is what I looked at with biscuits, oatmeal and water in hand.

I'm off to town to experience the rest of my moments.

unconscious mutterings

2007-04-09T23:59:00.000+08:00

Freak • out
Open • mind
Important • message
Magnetism • animal
Lap • top
Anything • goes
Match • sticks
Father • Christmas
Idea • "Whose idea was that anyway?"
Mirror • "Mirror, mirror on the wall"

hope

2007-04-09T07:26:00.000+08:00

Driving home Friday, after errands, I passed the cemetary which is the usual route when coming from that part of town. I turned the corner and could see a burial taking place. A large group of people stood gathered around the casket. I couldn't help but wonder was it a father/mother, wife/husband, son/daughter, sister/brother, aunt/uncle, friend, confidant or perhaps neighbour? I don't know. My eyes welled up with tears for a moment. That person being laid to rest mattered to the people who gathered there.

I continued the short drive home. Only minutes later did I see a man outside cutting his lawn. It wasn't the man so much that I noticed, it was the playful and happy dog that begged his attention while he stood behind the mower. I smiled big and laughed out loud.

I arrived home. In that brief ten minutes drive, I had gone from simple mundane driving, to tears in my eyes, to laughing out loud.

Life is a series of moments. Great, and some not so great. Thus far, the great definitely outweigh the not so great.

Today is Easter, and at this moment I am reminded of the hope and life I have in Him. That this life, my series of moments, will one day die physically but never spiritually.

Wishing everyone a beautiful Easter filled with love and hope.

visualDNA

2007-04-07T08:51:00.000+08:00

While this does not define me (I refuse to be defined!) it was fun.
I am a visual person, that I can say.
Go ahead and have a little fun, or at least amuse yourself for five minutes.

Read my VisualDNA™ Get your own VisualDNA™

what i'm feeling

2007-04-06T11:03:00.000+08:00

I’ve decided that my April month of blogging will be coined “inspiration”. It seems fitting, as it has been the reoccurring feeling that has come over me.

Beautiful photos, shared memories, web skills displayed, stories told, quotes written down, suggestions made, creative blog names, family photos, poetic musings, recipes shared, adventures taken, roads traveled, insecurities revealed, laugh-out-loud words written, advice given, encouraging words, personal perspectives, help solicited, ideas shared, art explored, art created, experiments made, souls revealed, friendships formed, hearts warmed, emotions spilled out and connections made.

All of these are found in the blogging community and they are what inspire me.

self-portrait challenge • body parts (1)

2007-04-05T11:17:00.001+08:00

Here it is. My first attempt at self-portrait challenge. This month the challenge is body parts.

I know virtually nothing about photography (and I'm guessing judging by the photo that's obvious) but I'm willing to experiment and have some fun. I would love to know more about photography.

This photo seems appropriate as I had an eye issue this last week. I woke up one morning to a swollen, half closed eye. Then it proceeded to swell up into my cheek. Lovely! It lasted a week. I've seen the opthomologist and I'm all better now. Turns out I had an allergy, only we don't know to what? Should have snapped a photo of that, perhaps it would have made a more interesting subject?

swap a journal and make a connection

2007-04-04T12:23:00.001+08:00

Here’s the scoop. Sognatrice did a meme, which I believe she did after being tagged by Vanessa. Sognatrice didn’t tag anyone but invited all to play along. Cherrye joined in and I read hers. I also saw it over at Erin’s place.

I thought about it, pondered the idea for a moment, and considered doing it but kept getting distracted. I like (ok love) these memes but being the official procrastinator that I am, and having a full plate, I waited.

I read that the meme came from Create a Connection, aka CaC, and I got curious. I hopped on over for a visit which seems to be my new favorite thing to do. Well, it is awesome and I was inspired, yet again. Not a surprise I know. I’m just soaking up the inspiration these days, and I can’t seem to get enough.

Create a Connection is doing a journal swap and I’m going to join in. Won’t you join me? Come on, now! It’s a great idea. Here’s the lowdown: You sign up, your name is given to someone, they send you a journal, and you also get someone’s name to pass a journal to and you connect with two different people. Check it out here. You know you want to!

I will be posting about my “journal swap” when it get’s underway.

APRIL

2007-04-02T08:27:00.000+08:00

• It's the 4th month of the year.
• It's one of 4 months with 30 days.
• It begins with "A" along with August.
• The name is derived from the Latin Aprilis.
• April's flower is the Sweet Pea, Lathyrus Odoratus which means: Thinking Of You.
• The Daisy, Bellis Perennis is also April's flower.
• April's birthstone is the diamond.
• April in the northern hemisphere is the seasonal equivalent to October in the southern hemisphere.

• April begins on the same day of the week as July every year, and as January in leap years.

April makes me think of:

April Fools
Easter
Easter Bonnets
Spring
Spring Break
Longer Days
Spring flowers beginning to bloom
Sunny Days
Colour
"April showers bring May flowers"
My grandmother's birthday

What does April make you think of?

(thanks Sognatrice, she gave me the inspiration)

my piece of paradise

2007-04-01T14:23:00.001+08:00

Waikiki is the city centre on the island of Oahu and it is the “hub” of the Hawaiian Islands. While it does not lack any conveniences like places to eat and a variety of shopping, it is not the island of choice for me. It has become very developed and ever so crowded. It is not the “getaway” sort of retreat that I have in mind when thinking of island paradise, but “hey” I’m not in any position to complain when my employer pays for my visit here.

With the “Aloha” spirit in hand, I decided to head out and get a little retrieve from all the commotion of the cement jungle. I needed to breathe the outside air, feel the warmth of the sun on my shoulders, the island breeze on my face and take pleasure in the beauty that is Hawaii.

The hotel is only a few blocks from the beach and after making my way those few blocks through the noise of traffic, I arrived at one of the beachfront hotels, which happens to have lovely grounds to wander on. I admired the ponds with lily pads, ducks and even a few turtles, the gorgeous orchids in bloom and the few exotic creatures that reside there.

Sacred Ibis Native to Africa, these balck and white birds use their long, curved, black beak to probe for insects and shellfish. Ancient Egyptians worshipped and mummified the Sacred Ibis. (sorry, this little guy didn't pose well for me)

African Lesser Flamingo The smallest of twelve species of flamingos, their delicate pink color comes from the algae and small crustaceans they eat. They feed by filtering out tiny organisms in the water with specialized grooves in their beaks.

Arriving at the beach alas, I treasured the calm that followed. It felt good to have my feet touch the sand and for the sand to squish through my toes. The water was warm and inviting and it felt oh so good. I walked and walked enjoying each step. I admired families and children at the water’s edge. I watched their innocence and the sense of joy on their faces from playing in the sand, and from simply living in the moment. I admired and took it all in.

Letting my feet get buried in the sand.

My footprints in the sand.

Dark clouds hovered in the distance but it didn’t take away from the beauty that was happening on the beach. I sat myself down and enjoyed the view. I day dreamed a bit and let myself get lost in the moment. The sun was preparing to set and the clouds still lingered around. The moment came and the sun went down in all its glory. As soon as it set, the hovering clouds that had been so patient and kind had waited long enough and they decided to dowse us with their drops of rain.

The dark clouds that hovered in the east.

Sunset over Waikiki beach.

As I walked back to the hotel, I felt refreshed, energized and there was even more spring in my step. I felt like I had left the spa after a full treatment, only I wasn’t stuck with the tab at the end. I am grateful for my little piece of paradise. It reminded me of how truly blessed we are to find the treasures in all of God’s creations.

sunday scribblings: #52 - In The Kitchen

2007-03-31T01:21:00.001+08:00

*Yeah, I know it's already Friday but I worked on this last Sunday. Does that count? I didn't want to scrap it as this is my very first Sunday Scribblings .
© 2006 Meg Genge & Laini Taylor

Memories are what come to mind when I think of “In The Kitchen”. The memories I speak of are those that were created in my grandmother’s kitchen.

I can hardly remember a day when I wasn’t there. I didn’t live in the same household but we only lived five blocks away. An invitation was never needed and if you wanted to eat dinner you could count on it being served at 5:30pm sharp. Everyone was welcome.

My grandmother always wore an apron and there were extras for other collaborators in the kitchen. My mother still has a few of the old collection and they are still being worn.

Ahh . . . . the smells and the taste of everything. Meals made from scratch, birthday cakes and cookies baked, holiday meals prepared, hot oatmeal available each morning, pickled beets with hard boiled eggs and onion always on hand, sauerkraut, pork and dumplings stewing and fresh fish caught by my grandfather. All of these carefully prepared and graciously served.

Gathering at the table, sitting down together and sharing a meal was the norm and going out to dinner was a rare occurrence. Today, unfortunately, I think it’s often the other way around.

A dishwasher was a luxury. We had one all right, several to be exact; anyone who participated in eating was equally qualified to do the washing. Everything was washed, rinsed, placed in the dish strainer, dried (with flour sack towels) and put away. There was no putting if off until the next morning. This was all part of the family time together.

The table we sat at for dinner was also the table where countless hours of games were played. They were all stored in a wooden cabinet, also still around. Whether it was a board game, word game or just a good old game of cards, everyone had fun.

That same table also doubled as the place where my grandfather would polish his shoes. Layering it with newspaper, he would meticulously clean and polish each shoe with precision and then place them on the floor.

The last event of the evening belonged to my grandfather. He “swabbed the deck” every evening. This is how my grandfather referred to mopping the floor. He spent twenty-six years in the Navy, and some habits, along with polishing his shoes, never died.

The kitchen still remains. It’s wearing a completely new décor, but the memories are still alive. I know because I stand in it everyday.

refusing to be corrected

2007-03-22T16:34:00.000+09:00

*after doing "word association" refuse:waste it reminded me of why my response was waste, and I laughed. please read on . . . . . . . .

As many know, whenever you are on a flight fly there are announcements made at certain phases of flight. One of these times, is what we call “top of descent”. This is usually the last 20 -30 minutes of flight. This is when we announce that the cabin crew will be coming through the aisles to collect any “remaining service items.” In other words, if you have any rubbish and you want to get rid of it, now is the time.

Let me introduce my coworker. FA#1(flight attendant) has the official title of Senior FA. Senior FA is the lead person onboard a particular flight. It means if anything goes wrong they are the lucky soul who gets to fill out all the lovely paperwork, and they get paid a “little” more. Yes, I emphasize little. (Never worth it for me, hence I’ve always remained “just” FA and I’m totally ok with that).

FA#1 is originally from The Caribbean and in trying to keep him anonymous, it’s not necessary to mention exactly where but let’s just say he does have a bit of an accent, a bit of a British twist but not what you would immediately recognize as British. Certain words are more pronounced than others. He likes to make all of his announcements very slowly and pays special mind to enunciate, with exact precision, particular words. The announcements are often too drawn out and lengthy. Now mind you, this doesn’t have anything to do with his accent but everything to do with his personality and commitment to being so serious. He is very particular about how the service flows and if it does not meet his expectations, the crew will hear about it. (I’m trying to paint the character a little. Is it working?)

The cabin bell chimes (our signal that it’s top of descent) and FA#1 begins to make the appropriate announcement. “Ladies and gentlemen, we have begun our initial descent ………(a bit more in-between here)…………if you have any refuge you would like to discard please hand it to the FA’s as they pass through the aisle”.

I am working in the aft of the aircraft. FA#1 comes to the aft to collect paperwork and check on a few other things. In the aft, is FA#2 and she’s a real kick. Originally from the south, she still has a bit of the southern “twang” and she’s always cheery, bubbly and friendly. Passengers love her and she delivers great customer service. She is however, the complete polar opposite of FA#1. She is often disorganized; all over the place, a “mess” and sometimes I can even see the cloud of dust whirling about her. She may come off a bit “ditzy” but she’s no dummy. She has a heart of gold, and I love her for that.

The following happened next:

FA#2 “Hey, ______. Did you say refuge?”

FA#1 “Yes”

FA#2 “Isn’t it suppose to be refuse? Refuge is like a place, a shelter. Refuse is garbage.”

FA#1 (a bit defensive but definitely sure of himself, and delivered in a condescending tone) “I’m a Linguistics Major, I think I know the difference between refuge and refuse and the proper word is refuge!”

FA#2 “Ok, (giggles) but I think it’s refuse.”

Now I am taking all this in, laughing and thinking. I like to sit back and observe. It had me curious for a moment, and I thought, “I think FA#2 is right, in fact I’m certain of it.” I thought more on it and then realized I had to check it out for myself, so I did. Well, here it is:

Refuge:
1 : shelter or protection from danger or distress
2 : a place that provides shelter or protection
3 : something to which one has recourse in difficulty

Refuse:
as a noun
1 : the worthless or useless part of something : LEAVINGS
2 : TRASH, GARBAGE

Thank you Merriam-Webster.

*It would appear that the "Linguistic major" stands to be corrected.

word association

2007-03-20T05:10:00.000+09:00

I read this at Cherrye's blog and I gave it a go. It's fun, c'mon try it. It's good brain exercise.
Click on the button to copy and paste the 10 words and have a look around at this website.

San Francisco ::

Rice a Roni

Sadness ::

Spirits ::

Harriet ::

State ::

John ::

Offense ::

Timeless ::

Account ::

Refuse ::

"blogs and links and creative expression . . ."

2007-03-18T12:54:00.001+09:00

I finally sat myself down and put a few words together to create my first post!

I have been reading a few different blogs now, off and on, for a few months. After viewing blogs randomly, I came upon At Home In Rome. What got my attention was the header. I loved it! I want to create a unique and expressive header for my blog! It just popped out at me and said, "hello, this is an interesting blog" and guess what, it is indeed. Shelley is a clever, smart girl and I appreciate her writing. Always fresh and original. The posts are intelligent and she has created a unique style. I see an intelligent, go-getter, never give up attitude in the material she writes and shares on her blog. Thanks Shelley.

From there I found bleeding espresso. Here I found "dreamer" (that's what sognatrice means in Italian) and what a pleasure. I have enjoyed the honesty and real quality of this blog. I love the fact she chooses to be positive. I am impressed with how you paint us all a picture of who you are with your writing. You make me laugh. I love your descriptive talent. Your intelligence is reflected in your writing. I love that you are clear when you write. It's as if I can hear your voice when I read your posts. So much fun. She also has an absolutely adorable doggie called Luna Balloona. Thanks Sognatrice.

I want to also point out Chronicles of Me by Boho Girl. This site encouraged the creative side of me which has been lying dormant for too long now. There is a really beautiful, sweet and compassionate soul spilled out here. I like it. Boho girl also has some really great links to fellow friends and there are a few I have also been admiring. The creative juices are flowing! Thanks Boho Girl.

I could go on and on about more great sites and ideas but "sheesh" I'd have to write a novel, and Lord knows I am not prepared, nor equipped to do that. I'm off to begin creating this wonderful journal here on the World Wide Web. I love the internet, it's just plain awesome. I am so inspired. I amazed at the endless possibilities for expression. The ideas bouncing in my head waiting to get out. The idea that a blog can be an outlet for all those "things" I want to express. For some reason I keep hearing Dorothy say, "Lions and tigers and bears, Oh my!" I keep saying, "Blogs and links and creative expression, Oh Yeah!" I am excited to watch this blog grow and enjoy the journey. I just have to remind myself, walk before you run. HA!

I have heaps of ideas and thoughts I want to share, or at least it feels that way in my head so I am hoping it all starts to unravel. It's naked now, and a not at all interesting compared to the above who have inspired me but I promise I will get there, wherever there is?

I'm working on the header. I know, it is "oh soo boring" but I am determined to create one myself. I am working on figuring all that neat stuff out. So mean while, I sit with what is available on the standard template.

Ciao (inspired and fitting to the lovely "expats"in Italy)