So much to do, so little time.
I'm sure it's time to panic!
Studying on struggle street and I feel like time is slipping through my fingers way too fast. I'm doing everything to convince myself that I can do this, but OMG, it's going to be tight!
Ugh.
We had a knock at the front door this morning and I answered the knock to find a stranger standing before me. He announced that our neighbour had told him that we had chickens. He advised that he had a black laying hen that he needed to remove from his brood of hens because the others didn't like her.
So we agreed to take his hen, whom he had named Lizzie.
Of course, I can't have a hen named Lizzie, among my 'beginning with 'H' girls', so I renamed her Harriet.
Now we have four hens and they are named Helen, Happy, Hector and Harriet.
Happy, the other black hen, became very loud when we introduced Harriet, and she stood on the highest spot of the garden yelling and cackling for a long time.
Helen, the brown hen, became a little aggressive and gave Harriet a few nasty pecks to show her who was boss and Hector, the white hen, hovered very close in an intimidating kind of way.
Because Harriet didn't know where the roost was, she attempted to climb the mango tree for the night .. until Adoring Husband showed where her bed was. The other girls sent her to the doorway for the night, but at least she is safe and warm.
So, once again, our family has grown.
I'm sure that I'm going to wake up one morning to find an alpaca in the back yard!
Anyway, I'm thinking of squeezing another couple of hours worth of study in before bed.
Nite all.
Saturday, July 5, 2014
Friday, July 4, 2014
What the!?
After five hours of study today, this was the last paragraph that I read ...
"Few fatty acids occur free in foods or in the body. Most often, they are incorporated into triglycerides - lipids composed of three fatty acids attached to a glycerol. To make a triglyceride, a series of condensation reactions combine a hydrogen atom (H) from the glycerol and a hydroxyl (OH) group from a fatty acid, forming a molecule of water (H2O) and leaving a bond between the other two molecules. Most triglycerides contain a mixture of more than one type of fatty acid."
What I actually read was "blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah"
It was at that point that I realised it was time to stop studying for the day!
As I reread that paragraph, I'm not exactly sure when it might be a good time to recommence studying!
The panic is still welling within, but I continue to look at the inspirational cards taped to the bottom of my computer monitor and it gives me the motivation to power on. Thank you Vegan Chickie.
While I attempted to get to bed early last night, I got involved in a movie called "and then she found me" with Helen Hunt (who was also the director), Colin Firth, Bette Midler and Matthew Broderick. It sucked me in and I watched it to the end.
The last 30 minutes I watched from bed, but it was well after midnight when I fell asleep. I woke at 8.15am but didn't rise til after 9am.
I went for my morning ride in the glorious sunshine, got my morning coffee and was home an hour later to get stuck into the books.
Therefore, no photos and no facebook quotes to share.
Time to get my footy tips in and then get ready for a night out at the club. I have won $45 worth of restaurant vouchers, so Adoring Husband and I are going to have a free meal at the club restaurant with a few friends.
Nite all.
"Few fatty acids occur free in foods or in the body. Most often, they are incorporated into triglycerides - lipids composed of three fatty acids attached to a glycerol. To make a triglyceride, a series of condensation reactions combine a hydrogen atom (H) from the glycerol and a hydroxyl (OH) group from a fatty acid, forming a molecule of water (H2O) and leaving a bond between the other two molecules. Most triglycerides contain a mixture of more than one type of fatty acid."
What I actually read was "blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah"
It was at that point that I realised it was time to stop studying for the day!
As I reread that paragraph, I'm not exactly sure when it might be a good time to recommence studying!
The panic is still welling within, but I continue to look at the inspirational cards taped to the bottom of my computer monitor and it gives me the motivation to power on. Thank you Vegan Chickie.
While I attempted to get to bed early last night, I got involved in a movie called "and then she found me" with Helen Hunt (who was also the director), Colin Firth, Bette Midler and Matthew Broderick. It sucked me in and I watched it to the end.
The last 30 minutes I watched from bed, but it was well after midnight when I fell asleep. I woke at 8.15am but didn't rise til after 9am.
I went for my morning ride in the glorious sunshine, got my morning coffee and was home an hour later to get stuck into the books.
Therefore, no photos and no facebook quotes to share.
Time to get my footy tips in and then get ready for a night out at the club. I have won $45 worth of restaurant vouchers, so Adoring Husband and I are going to have a free meal at the club restaurant with a few friends.
Nite all.
Thursday, July 3, 2014
Exhausted
I can't begin to tell you how exhausted I feel tonight!
I'm functioning on one hour of sleep, after staying up all night and watching Kyrgios lose his match against Raonic at Wimbledon.
He seemed to have lost his spark and I guess the 5 set match against Gasquet and then the huge win over Nadal took it's toll. He only had 24 hours to recover and it just didn't happen for him.
Still, he was gracious in defeat and his tennis future looks bright.
Today I received a special envelope in the mail, beautifully addressed with calligraphy and containing some timely motivational and inspirational quotes on cards. I have them stuck to the front of my computer screen to remind myself to keep going.
Thank you to Vegan Chickie for giving me the gentle shove that I needed with just a week left to finalise 2 of my assignments for the semester. I have two others that I haven't even started that need to be complete by the end of the first semester which ends mid August.
Far out!
No more sleepless tennis nights for me!
Since my brain was too frazzled to study, I spent some time in the kitchen and made some pumpkin soup, some banana bread, some failed potato croquettes that became simply 'mash', a big jug of freshly squeezed orange juice and Adoring Husband helped me crumb 24 fish fillets. So at least my day wasn't a total waste!
Now I'm going to try to study for an hour or two before bed. Not sure if my brain can manage it, but we'll give it a whirl.
Nite all.
I'm functioning on one hour of sleep, after staying up all night and watching Kyrgios lose his match against Raonic at Wimbledon.
He seemed to have lost his spark and I guess the 5 set match against Gasquet and then the huge win over Nadal took it's toll. He only had 24 hours to recover and it just didn't happen for him.
Still, he was gracious in defeat and his tennis future looks bright.
Today I received a special envelope in the mail, beautifully addressed with calligraphy and containing some timely motivational and inspirational quotes on cards. I have them stuck to the front of my computer screen to remind myself to keep going.
Thank you to Vegan Chickie for giving me the gentle shove that I needed with just a week left to finalise 2 of my assignments for the semester. I have two others that I haven't even started that need to be complete by the end of the first semester which ends mid August.
Far out!
No more sleepless tennis nights for me!
Since my brain was too frazzled to study, I spent some time in the kitchen and made some pumpkin soup, some banana bread, some failed potato croquettes that became simply 'mash', a big jug of freshly squeezed orange juice and Adoring Husband helped me crumb 24 fish fillets. So at least my day wasn't a total waste!
Now I'm going to try to study for an hour or two before bed. Not sure if my brain can manage it, but we'll give it a whirl.
Nite all.
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
Winner!
I sat up until 4.30am watching a magnificent game of tennis between the Australian, Nick Kyrgios (ranked 144 in the world at the beginning of the Wimbledon tournament) and the number one player in the world, Rafael Nadal.
The Australian won in four sets!
He was brilliant.
He outplayed Nadal from beginning to end and it wasn't like Nadal played badly either. Nadal fought hard and used his usual psychological tactics with time wasting to try to put Kyrgios off his game, but the kid wasn't fazed by any of it and remained level headed throughout the match.
Even serving for the match, he remained calm.
Just amazing for a 19 yr old and such a nice kid too. Articulate and humble and polite and seemingly unaffected by all the attention.
Unfortunately, he plays again tonight, so I have to stay up and watch him again!
I DID sleep from 4.30am until after 9am today, so I am not completely sleep deprived, but I feel that I might struggle to remain awake if this match goes for too long. There are two games before his, so I can't imagine when his might start.
This morning, Adoring Husband had breakfast of bacon, eggs and tomato waiting for me when I got out of bed and afterwards I went for a ride in the glorious Winter sunshine to get myself a coffee. I sat in the sun on the river's edge and soaked up some vitamin D for a while before coming home to get into some study.
It took a while to get focused after such a late night, but I contributed some more to my assignment and every little bit helps!
My river was amazing and beautiful this morning.
The question was already asked "One or two too many wines???"
I just wanted to take a sharp angle shot :)
It has occurred to me that I can do some more studying while I wait for the tennis to start!
Nite all.
The Australian won in four sets!
He was brilliant.
He outplayed Nadal from beginning to end and it wasn't like Nadal played badly either. Nadal fought hard and used his usual psychological tactics with time wasting to try to put Kyrgios off his game, but the kid wasn't fazed by any of it and remained level headed throughout the match.
Even serving for the match, he remained calm.
Just amazing for a 19 yr old and such a nice kid too. Articulate and humble and polite and seemingly unaffected by all the attention.
Unfortunately, he plays again tonight, so I have to stay up and watch him again!
I DID sleep from 4.30am until after 9am today, so I am not completely sleep deprived, but I feel that I might struggle to remain awake if this match goes for too long. There are two games before his, so I can't imagine when his might start.
This morning, Adoring Husband had breakfast of bacon, eggs and tomato waiting for me when I got out of bed and afterwards I went for a ride in the glorious Winter sunshine to get myself a coffee. I sat in the sun on the river's edge and soaked up some vitamin D for a while before coming home to get into some study.
It took a while to get focused after such a late night, but I contributed some more to my assignment and every little bit helps!
My river was amazing and beautiful this morning.
The question was already asked "One or two too many wines???"
I just wanted to take a sharp angle shot :)
It has occurred to me that I can do some more studying while I wait for the tennis to start!
Nite all.
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Awww Moments
I thoroughly enjoyed my morning tea with the girls this morning and then hit the books for a pretty productive day of study. Partially completed one of my assignments, so I've momentarily taken the edge of the feeling of panic that has been rising within for the last week or so.
This evening while I've been waiting for the tennis to start, I edited another photo from the Bunya Mountains weekend.
Superb Fairy Wren ...
... and I decided to share some cute and fuzzy pictures from my facebook visit this afternoon.
Two day old hippopotamus and then the rest speak for themselves.
Now, I think I have about an hour, before a tennis match that I don't want to watch, will be finished, so that the one that I DO want to watch begins, and I might squeeze in some more productive study while I wait.
Nite all.
This evening while I've been waiting for the tennis to start, I edited another photo from the Bunya Mountains weekend.
Superb Fairy Wren ...
... and I decided to share some cute and fuzzy pictures from my facebook visit this afternoon.
Two day old hippopotamus and then the rest speak for themselves.
Now, I think I have about an hour, before a tennis match that I don't want to watch, will be finished, so that the one that I DO want to watch begins, and I might squeeze in some more productive study while I wait.
Nite all.
Monday, June 30, 2014
See the Sea Snake
A quick visit to The Seat of Knowledge this morning reaped rewards for me!
Luckily I am known in town for my obsession with the camera, because as soon as the people saw this vision on the sand, they called me over immediately.
I've never seen a Sea Snake until today ...
At first, he appeared to be in distress, because he was on the sand, right on the edge of the water, so that each time the water rippled in small waves over his body, he squirmed and struggled as if he was either in pain, or unable to find the strength to get himself deep enough to swim.
But then a man walked over and gave him a soft nudge with his boot and the snake found his way and swam into the river towards a squadron of pelicans.
I expected that the pelicans might get spooked by the snake and fly off in a panic, but they weren't the slightest bit perturbed and just quietly moved aside for the snake to swim past.
So that was my exciting start to the day.
I didn't get much study done today because I cooked .. I made cheesy chard quiche with sundried tomatoes for lunch which we ate with a garden salad.
Then for dinner I made a pizza with a pureed chicken breast and coconut flour base, which was interesting and tasty, but too dry. Adoring Husband didn't like it and I'm not sure how I can make it less dry next time. I'll have to work on that.
My Aussie tennis player is not playing tonight after all, so I get to have another early night in preparation for a late night tomorrow night. He doesn't start til 10 pm our time, so it MAY be a late night, or Nadal could take him out in straight sets and it could all be over before you know it!
I have a little video of my Chicklet practising her fine motor skills .. she makes my heart melt and I've watched this about a dozen times already.
Nite all.
Luckily I am known in town for my obsession with the camera, because as soon as the people saw this vision on the sand, they called me over immediately.
I've never seen a Sea Snake until today ...
At first, he appeared to be in distress, because he was on the sand, right on the edge of the water, so that each time the water rippled in small waves over his body, he squirmed and struggled as if he was either in pain, or unable to find the strength to get himself deep enough to swim.
But then a man walked over and gave him a soft nudge with his boot and the snake found his way and swam into the river towards a squadron of pelicans.
I expected that the pelicans might get spooked by the snake and fly off in a panic, but they weren't the slightest bit perturbed and just quietly moved aside for the snake to swim past.
So that was my exciting start to the day.
I didn't get much study done today because I cooked .. I made cheesy chard quiche with sundried tomatoes for lunch which we ate with a garden salad.
Then for dinner I made a pizza with a pureed chicken breast and coconut flour base, which was interesting and tasty, but too dry. Adoring Husband didn't like it and I'm not sure how I can make it less dry next time. I'll have to work on that.
My Aussie tennis player is not playing tonight after all, so I get to have another early night in preparation for a late night tomorrow night. He doesn't start til 10 pm our time, so it MAY be a late night, or Nadal could take him out in straight sets and it could all be over before you know it!
I have a little video of my Chicklet practising her fine motor skills .. she makes my heart melt and I've watched this about a dozen times already.
Nite all.
Sunday, June 29, 2014
Missed it
Well, I went to bed and missed the big match! Luckily Nick Kyrgios won his match, so I get another chance to see him play .. only this time it will be against the great Rafael Nadal tomorrow night.
Meanwhile, here are my last 4 #100happydays challenge photos...
One of my practise shots for the red balloon challenge.
A female galah balancing on a wet wire fence.
I found a pair of Tawny Frogmouths sitting in a big old mango tree near the Seat of Knowledge.
At high tide on the beach this morning were two White Bellied Sea Eagles, two Whistling Kites and two Brahminy Kites. I watched them for about an hour. A Brahminy swooped for food, but I missed the shot. I did manage a reasonable shot of the White Bellied Sea Eagle. One day I'll get the money shot.
Adoring Husband made a delicious Osso Bucco in the slow cooker, for dinner tonight. It was a lovely end to a lazy Sunday.
If I get a good nights sleep, I'll be alert for a study day tomorrow and then I can stay up for the big tennis match tomorrow night. That's the plan at this point in time.
Nite all.
Meanwhile, here are my last 4 #100happydays challenge photos...
One of my practise shots for the red balloon challenge.
A female galah balancing on a wet wire fence.
I found a pair of Tawny Frogmouths sitting in a big old mango tree near the Seat of Knowledge.
At high tide on the beach this morning were two White Bellied Sea Eagles, two Whistling Kites and two Brahminy Kites. I watched them for about an hour. A Brahminy swooped for food, but I missed the shot. I did manage a reasonable shot of the White Bellied Sea Eagle. One day I'll get the money shot.
Adoring Husband made a delicious Osso Bucco in the slow cooker, for dinner tonight. It was a lovely end to a lazy Sunday.
If I get a good nights sleep, I'll be alert for a study day tomorrow and then I can stay up for the big tennis match tomorrow night. That's the plan at this point in time.
Nite all.
Picture This
I am sitting very comfortably on the couch .. footrest up .. slippers on, and eating a bowl of fresh strawberries and cream while watching Wimbledon.
I'm watching a very good match between Rafael Nadal and the Russian player Mikhail Kukushkin. They are playing undercover because it's raining.
The Aussie, Nick Kyrgios, started his match, but it was suspended when the rains came because they were playing on an outside court. It was probably a good thing because he was losing 4-2 in the first set. He's playing a Czech named Jiri Vesely, whom I've not heard of before.
So now my dilemma is whether to stay up and hope that the rains clear and I get to watch the Aussie's match, or do I go to bed and hope that the rains continue so that I don't miss anything? Tomorrow is a rest day for Wimbledon, so there will be no tennis tomorrow night.
I studied again today .. gave myself a quick quiz about half an hour ago and did not impress myself with the results, so now I know that I need to revise EVERYTHING that I've learnt for the last 3 days. Ugh!
Other than that, we've had some lovely refreshing rain today and apparently there is a band of storms to the south-west, but I think they may skirt to the south of us. We MAY get the very edge, but I doubt it.
Happy birthday to my lovely Mum who would have turned 74 today. Most of all I wish she was here so that I could share Chicklet with her. She would have loved cheeky Chicklet.
It's now after midnight and the rains are still falling at Wimbledon. I think I shall concede defeat and head off to bed.
Nite all.
I'm watching a very good match between Rafael Nadal and the Russian player Mikhail Kukushkin. They are playing undercover because it's raining.
The Aussie, Nick Kyrgios, started his match, but it was suspended when the rains came because they were playing on an outside court. It was probably a good thing because he was losing 4-2 in the first set. He's playing a Czech named Jiri Vesely, whom I've not heard of before.
So now my dilemma is whether to stay up and hope that the rains clear and I get to watch the Aussie's match, or do I go to bed and hope that the rains continue so that I don't miss anything? Tomorrow is a rest day for Wimbledon, so there will be no tennis tomorrow night.
I studied again today .. gave myself a quick quiz about half an hour ago and did not impress myself with the results, so now I know that I need to revise EVERYTHING that I've learnt for the last 3 days. Ugh!
Other than that, we've had some lovely refreshing rain today and apparently there is a band of storms to the south-west, but I think they may skirt to the south of us. We MAY get the very edge, but I doubt it.
Happy birthday to my lovely Mum who would have turned 74 today. Most of all I wish she was here so that I could share Chicklet with her. She would have loved cheeky Chicklet.
It's now after midnight and the rains are still falling at Wimbledon. I think I shall concede defeat and head off to bed.
Nite all.
Friday, June 27, 2014
Carbs
The Carbs are going to get me! Yes! After another 4 hours of study today, I'm still not done with Carbs! I didn't like Carbs before I started this course, and I certainly haven't changed my mind since!
I watched a lot of tennis last night .. including the Australian, Nick Kyrgios, who had lost the first two sets when I was writing here, but who came back to win a long 5 set match. It was epic and a most enjoyable, if not frustrating match to watch.
I didn't get to bed until after 1.30am by which time Lleyton Hewitt had not started his match. When I woke this morning, he had played one and a half sets before bad light ended play, so I get to see the end of it tonight .. if I can stay awake that long.
There is a lady's match on first, which is almost over, but unfortunately for me, I have a pair of matchsticks holding my eyes open and I really don't think I have the stamina to stay awake much longer.
So I have nothing new to share. No photos. No quotes. I think I'll go to bed and put the TV onto the tennis channel and fall asleep in the comfort and snuggling warmth of my lovely bed.
Nite all.
I watched a lot of tennis last night .. including the Australian, Nick Kyrgios, who had lost the first two sets when I was writing here, but who came back to win a long 5 set match. It was epic and a most enjoyable, if not frustrating match to watch.
I didn't get to bed until after 1.30am by which time Lleyton Hewitt had not started his match. When I woke this morning, he had played one and a half sets before bad light ended play, so I get to see the end of it tonight .. if I can stay awake that long.
There is a lady's match on first, which is almost over, but unfortunately for me, I have a pair of matchsticks holding my eyes open and I really don't think I have the stamina to stay awake much longer.
So I have nothing new to share. No photos. No quotes. I think I'll go to bed and put the TV onto the tennis channel and fall asleep in the comfort and snuggling warmth of my lovely bed.
Nite all.
Thursday, June 26, 2014
Heavy
Atoms Symbols Formula Circulatory Vascular Sphincter Monosaccharides Homeostasis Peristalsis Chylomicrons Microvilli Chyme Bolus Jejunum Ileocaecal Epithelial Lacteals Endocrine ...
... these are but a few of the words spinning around in my head as I delve into the magical world of the digestive system!
Every time I come across another word that I can't spell without looking at it, I have a mini panic attack!
Having only read the first page of Carbohydrates, the atoms and formula are already threatening to do my head in! Here I thought a carb was a carb was a carb. Pfffft!
I'm training myself to breathe .. and look forward .. and be positive .. and re-read .. and absorb .. and imagine .. and focus ... and then take a break when it begins to feel overwhelming ... just stop for a moment and do something else for 20 minutes to rest my brain.
I'm certain that the crease across my forehead is chiselled more deeply than it was 3 months ago, from the sheer force of concentration that I require at times.
Oh how the time flies!
Oh how stimulating and exciting it is, when after struggling to 'get it', something finally makes sense! It's like finding a piece of the puzzle that creates a much bigger picture and always deserves a gasp and a knowing nod of recognition.
My poor boys at the Seat of Knowledge are copping the brunt of it. Almost every morning I come out with a "Did you know ... ???" and then ramble on for 20 minutes about some amazing fact that I discovered the day before.
Sometimes they are excited that I shared something interesting and want to know more. Other times I see their eyes glaze over and they either have no idea what I'm talking about, or they don't believe my information!
Still, every little piece of information that I repeat out loud or think about, away from my desk, is something that is being absorbed a little deeper in my brain.
Adoring Husband picked up a beautiful array of fresh, organic fruit and vegetables in our FROG box this week and I wish I had more time to spare to do some cooking .. I DID make up a lovely big batch of cauliflower and broccoli puree full of garlic and pepper and sour cream. I froze three containers of it and had the rest with our crispy skinned salmon tonight. Adoring Husband wasn't so impressed with it because apparently, he has a raw throat and the pepper was not kind to it.
So now I need to figure out how to fix that raw throat that he's probably had for 2 months and not told me about for fear that I create some concoction for him to ingest on a daily basis.
Hehehe :)
I'm currently watching an Aussie (Kyrgios) play tennis at Wimbledon. It's not looking good for him at this stage, having lost the first 2 sets. My favourite player, Lleyton Hewitt is playing at 1.30am and I really want to stay up to watch him, but it's only 10.40 pm now and I'm already struggling to stay awake! Perhaps I should go to bed and set my alarm for 2am?!
Anyway, no photos to share today, but I think I have a quote or two that you might like ...
Nite all.
... these are but a few of the words spinning around in my head as I delve into the magical world of the digestive system!
Every time I come across another word that I can't spell without looking at it, I have a mini panic attack!
Having only read the first page of Carbohydrates, the atoms and formula are already threatening to do my head in! Here I thought a carb was a carb was a carb. Pfffft!
I'm training myself to breathe .. and look forward .. and be positive .. and re-read .. and absorb .. and imagine .. and focus ... and then take a break when it begins to feel overwhelming ... just stop for a moment and do something else for 20 minutes to rest my brain.
I'm certain that the crease across my forehead is chiselled more deeply than it was 3 months ago, from the sheer force of concentration that I require at times.
Oh how the time flies!
Oh how stimulating and exciting it is, when after struggling to 'get it', something finally makes sense! It's like finding a piece of the puzzle that creates a much bigger picture and always deserves a gasp and a knowing nod of recognition.
My poor boys at the Seat of Knowledge are copping the brunt of it. Almost every morning I come out with a "Did you know ... ???" and then ramble on for 20 minutes about some amazing fact that I discovered the day before.
Sometimes they are excited that I shared something interesting and want to know more. Other times I see their eyes glaze over and they either have no idea what I'm talking about, or they don't believe my information!
Still, every little piece of information that I repeat out loud or think about, away from my desk, is something that is being absorbed a little deeper in my brain.
Adoring Husband picked up a beautiful array of fresh, organic fruit and vegetables in our FROG box this week and I wish I had more time to spare to do some cooking .. I DID make up a lovely big batch of cauliflower and broccoli puree full of garlic and pepper and sour cream. I froze three containers of it and had the rest with our crispy skinned salmon tonight. Adoring Husband wasn't so impressed with it because apparently, he has a raw throat and the pepper was not kind to it.
So now I need to figure out how to fix that raw throat that he's probably had for 2 months and not told me about for fear that I create some concoction for him to ingest on a daily basis.
Hehehe :)
I'm currently watching an Aussie (Kyrgios) play tennis at Wimbledon. It's not looking good for him at this stage, having lost the first 2 sets. My favourite player, Lleyton Hewitt is playing at 1.30am and I really want to stay up to watch him, but it's only 10.40 pm now and I'm already struggling to stay awake! Perhaps I should go to bed and set my alarm for 2am?!
Anyway, no photos to share today, but I think I have a quote or two that you might like ...
Nite all.
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Lady's Day
Today was the monthly lunch for a rather large group of ladies from our community.
Our lunches have included catching The Boat Club bus into The Bay for lunch at the club, travel to Bundaberg for shopping and lunch at the local club, lunching at the pub here in town, gathering at the local park for a picnic lunch, travelling by bus to Childers for lunch at a winery ... the list goes on.
Today, we caught the Burrum River Quest across the river to Walker's Point, where the Woodgate Bowls Club buses were waiting to take us on the ten minute trip to the Bowls Club for lunch.
The photos aren't great, taken very quickly and without much thought .. and as you can see, it was quite chilly here today!
There were 22 of us, including 4 or 5 new ladies in the group. A couple of them have been in town for quite a few years but don't get out much and a couple of them have only been in town for a few months and were taking the opportunity to meet some new people.
Two of them were my new neighbours from behind and beside my house.
I like both of my neighbours very much, so far, and it was really nice to introduce them to my friends and see them fit right in and have such a lovely time. They've both decided to come to next month's lunch as well, so that's a good sign!
I only drank two glasses of wine while I was out, so after I got home, at about 3pm, I had a quick 'face time' call with my crazy little Chicklet and her Mama and then got stuck into some study. I squeezed in about 2 hours before this happened ...
We had a nice quick dinner of home-crumbed chicken, salad and organic corn on the cob for dinner and now I am rugged up in tracky dacks and slippers to watch a few hours of Wimbledon.
I love it when it actually feels like Winter :)
Nite all.
Our lunches have included catching The Boat Club bus into The Bay for lunch at the club, travel to Bundaberg for shopping and lunch at the local club, lunching at the pub here in town, gathering at the local park for a picnic lunch, travelling by bus to Childers for lunch at a winery ... the list goes on.
Today, we caught the Burrum River Quest across the river to Walker's Point, where the Woodgate Bowls Club buses were waiting to take us on the ten minute trip to the Bowls Club for lunch.
The photos aren't great, taken very quickly and without much thought .. and as you can see, it was quite chilly here today!
There were 22 of us, including 4 or 5 new ladies in the group. A couple of them have been in town for quite a few years but don't get out much and a couple of them have only been in town for a few months and were taking the opportunity to meet some new people.
Two of them were my new neighbours from behind and beside my house.
I like both of my neighbours very much, so far, and it was really nice to introduce them to my friends and see them fit right in and have such a lovely time. They've both decided to come to next month's lunch as well, so that's a good sign!
I only drank two glasses of wine while I was out, so after I got home, at about 3pm, I had a quick 'face time' call with my crazy little Chicklet and her Mama and then got stuck into some study. I squeezed in about 2 hours before this happened ...
We had a nice quick dinner of home-crumbed chicken, salad and organic corn on the cob for dinner and now I am rugged up in tracky dacks and slippers to watch a few hours of Wimbledon.
I love it when it actually feels like Winter :)
Nite all.
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
Concerned Citizen
The day before yesterday, after I had finished taking my balloon shot on the beach, I was standing on the soft sand at the base of the steps that lead up the bank to where I had parked my trike, packing my camera gear away properly, when I could hear a child's voice in the distance.
I could hear him asking his mother "what is the red thing near that lady over there?" and they discussed it as they got closer to me. Their voices were carrying across the flats on the breeze.
They were walking across the flats at low tide and had come quite a distance, so as they got closer, I decided to give the balloon to the boy, who was about 6 yrs of age.
I walked back down the steps towards them and asked him if he would like the balloon and he responded very enthusiastically with a big "YES PLEASE". So I handed him the balloon and walked back up the steps.
He and his mum followed me, and as he reached the top of the stairs, the balloon touched something sharp on the rails and with a loud bang, exploded into nothingness!
His little face dropped, but luckily I had a bag of balloons in my camera bag, so, much to his joy, I told him it was ok and that I could fix it.
At that point his mother said "I have to take the dog and put him in the yard before another dog comes along. I'll be back in a minute." Off she walked to a house, not too far from us, and disappeared into the back yard.
It was a holiday rental, so they weren't locals and were obviously holidaying here.
Meanwhile I blew up the new balloon and tied it to the string for the boy and soon his mum came back out to join us. They both thanked me with big smiles and headed back into the house.
She would have been gone for about 5 minutes and as I left, I thought how trusting she was to leave her young son alone with me, a complete stranger, in a strange town, for 5 long minutes.
Recently, among friends, I have had long, intense conversations about childhoods and experiences that damaged our psyche. Some have been hurt by trusted family members or friends, others abused by complete strangers, but the numbers are significant and the circumstances often surprising.
A predator or child abuser needs very little time to cause lasting damage to an innocent child. For a parent who has never experienced such horror, either directly, or indirectly, it probably seems really stupid to suggest that they watch their child for every waking moment and to not trust strangers alone with them either .. but for those of us who have experienced it, both directly AND indirectly, it just seems inexplicable that any parent would take that risk.
Tempting though it was to offer that woman some words of warning, what it really comes down to, is that it's nice that some people feel safe enough and comfortable enough to not worry about that kind of thing and can simply enjoy the kindness of strangers without suspicion.
How nice that must be.
Nite all.
I could hear him asking his mother "what is the red thing near that lady over there?" and they discussed it as they got closer to me. Their voices were carrying across the flats on the breeze.
They were walking across the flats at low tide and had come quite a distance, so as they got closer, I decided to give the balloon to the boy, who was about 6 yrs of age.
I walked back down the steps towards them and asked him if he would like the balloon and he responded very enthusiastically with a big "YES PLEASE". So I handed him the balloon and walked back up the steps.
He and his mum followed me, and as he reached the top of the stairs, the balloon touched something sharp on the rails and with a loud bang, exploded into nothingness!
His little face dropped, but luckily I had a bag of balloons in my camera bag, so, much to his joy, I told him it was ok and that I could fix it.
At that point his mother said "I have to take the dog and put him in the yard before another dog comes along. I'll be back in a minute." Off she walked to a house, not too far from us, and disappeared into the back yard.
It was a holiday rental, so they weren't locals and were obviously holidaying here.
Meanwhile I blew up the new balloon and tied it to the string for the boy and soon his mum came back out to join us. They both thanked me with big smiles and headed back into the house.
She would have been gone for about 5 minutes and as I left, I thought how trusting she was to leave her young son alone with me, a complete stranger, in a strange town, for 5 long minutes.
Recently, among friends, I have had long, intense conversations about childhoods and experiences that damaged our psyche. Some have been hurt by trusted family members or friends, others abused by complete strangers, but the numbers are significant and the circumstances often surprising.
A predator or child abuser needs very little time to cause lasting damage to an innocent child. For a parent who has never experienced such horror, either directly, or indirectly, it probably seems really stupid to suggest that they watch their child for every waking moment and to not trust strangers alone with them either .. but for those of us who have experienced it, both directly AND indirectly, it just seems inexplicable that any parent would take that risk.
Tempting though it was to offer that woman some words of warning, what it really comes down to, is that it's nice that some people feel safe enough and comfortable enough to not worry about that kind of thing and can simply enjoy the kindness of strangers without suspicion.
How nice that must be.
Nite all.
Monday, June 23, 2014
Risk Taking
I'm writing this post early tonight because I took a risk that may find me in the bathroom for the next few hours.
A neighbour kindly delivered some fresh fish that he caught on the weekend, but couldn't tell me what the fish was. He and his mate caught 8 fish out at sea and they filleted the fish all at the same time and put all of the fillets together. He gave us 3 large fillets.
I'm allergic to Sea Perch. It makes me lose control of ALL of my bodily functions and I need to attend hospital for an injection to help me regain control.
I'm also allergic to fresh water lobster, yabbies, sea scallops, cooked oysters and another fish whose name I don't know .. I just know that I was guaranteed, when I ordered it, that it wasn't Sea Perch .. which means that I have to be very wary when eating any new fish.
Anyway, I crumbed this fish tonight and ate two fillets! It wouldn't matter if I had one mouthful or 6 fillets, it has the same affect on me and it usually takes about 90 minutes from when I eat it.
So the countdown is on.
I spent some time this morning attempting to set up another red balloon shot, but I wasn't happy with any of them, so I decided on this one ...
It's the same as the one I shared yesterday, but edited differently.
I got some good study in today, although I disagree with some of the teachings and have voiced my objections to my supervisor and asked if I will be penalised for a differing opinion if I use it in my assignments. I'm still waiting to hear back .. they say that all contact will receive a response 'within 48 hrs' so we shall see!
Well, I have approximately 30 minutes left before I know my fate for the evening so I am off to make good use of that time.
Nite all.
A neighbour kindly delivered some fresh fish that he caught on the weekend, but couldn't tell me what the fish was. He and his mate caught 8 fish out at sea and they filleted the fish all at the same time and put all of the fillets together. He gave us 3 large fillets.
I'm allergic to Sea Perch. It makes me lose control of ALL of my bodily functions and I need to attend hospital for an injection to help me regain control.
I'm also allergic to fresh water lobster, yabbies, sea scallops, cooked oysters and another fish whose name I don't know .. I just know that I was guaranteed, when I ordered it, that it wasn't Sea Perch .. which means that I have to be very wary when eating any new fish.
Anyway, I crumbed this fish tonight and ate two fillets! It wouldn't matter if I had one mouthful or 6 fillets, it has the same affect on me and it usually takes about 90 minutes from when I eat it.
So the countdown is on.
I spent some time this morning attempting to set up another red balloon shot, but I wasn't happy with any of them, so I decided on this one ...
It's the same as the one I shared yesterday, but edited differently.
I got some good study in today, although I disagree with some of the teachings and have voiced my objections to my supervisor and asked if I will be penalised for a differing opinion if I use it in my assignments. I'm still waiting to hear back .. they say that all contact will receive a response 'within 48 hrs' so we shall see!
Well, I have approximately 30 minutes left before I know my fate for the evening so I am off to make good use of that time.
Nite all.
Sunday, June 22, 2014
Just Desserts
This is what we had for dessert tonight...
Chocolate Mousse
1 ripe avocado, peeled and stone removed.
60 ml almond milk (I used pure cream)
1T Chia seeds
1t vanilla extract
4T ground cacao
1/4 cup of combination of honey and maple syrup
Some chopped strawberries and kiwi fruit (or fresh fruit of your choice)
Chopped nuts
Throw everything, except the fruit and nuts, in the blender and blend until smooth and creamy.
In a couple of ramekin dishes, place a layer of mousse, then a layer of strawberries, a layer of kiwi fruit, a layer of mousse, some whipped cream on the top and then sprinkle with chopped nuts.
Adoring Husband ate all of his, but I couldn't get through all of mine, so I still have some in the fridge for a snack tomorrow!
It's very healthy, very delicious and very quick and easy to make.
I had an attempt at the challenge photo for Single Red Balloon today. I was very lucky because as I arrived at the beach to create the shot, a heavy fog rolled in from the sea, which lasted for about 45 minutes and then it lifted just as quickly as it arrived!
I'm not completely happy with the shot though, so I may have to rethink or rework it. Just not sure what to do with it .. I know The Nikonian would have a brilliant idea for it .. if only I had her clever, complex brain.
Now my biggest decision is whether to watch the late movie with George Clooney in it, or go to bed.
Study tomorrow and Wimbledon starts tomorrow night .. so maybe my best option is to sleep.
Nite all.
Chocolate Mousse
1 ripe avocado, peeled and stone removed.
60 ml almond milk (I used pure cream)
1T Chia seeds
1t vanilla extract
4T ground cacao
1/4 cup of combination of honey and maple syrup
Some chopped strawberries and kiwi fruit (or fresh fruit of your choice)
Chopped nuts
Throw everything, except the fruit and nuts, in the blender and blend until smooth and creamy.
In a couple of ramekin dishes, place a layer of mousse, then a layer of strawberries, a layer of kiwi fruit, a layer of mousse, some whipped cream on the top and then sprinkle with chopped nuts.
Adoring Husband ate all of his, but I couldn't get through all of mine, so I still have some in the fridge for a snack tomorrow!
It's very healthy, very delicious and very quick and easy to make.
I had an attempt at the challenge photo for Single Red Balloon today. I was very lucky because as I arrived at the beach to create the shot, a heavy fog rolled in from the sea, which lasted for about 45 minutes and then it lifted just as quickly as it arrived!
I'm not completely happy with the shot though, so I may have to rethink or rework it. Just not sure what to do with it .. I know The Nikonian would have a brilliant idea for it .. if only I had her clever, complex brain.
Now my biggest decision is whether to watch the late movie with George Clooney in it, or go to bed.
Study tomorrow and Wimbledon starts tomorrow night .. so maybe my best option is to sleep.
Nite all.
Catch Up
I have a new recipe book.
"Eat Yourself Beautiful" by Lee Holmes.
Apparently you can get it cheaper at Kmart and Big W - for around $20.
The recipes are quick and easy and focus on anti-inflammatory foods. Lots of gluten free, wheat free, sugar free, dairy free and vegetarian recipes. It also has lots of interesting information at the front of the book explaining which foods to avoid and why, alternative sweeteners, detoxing, good fats, vitamins and minerals, meal plans and a shopping list.
I made my first recipe out of it today. Sweet Potato Hash.
The basic recipe:
1 Large sweet potato, peeled and grated
1 small onion, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
pinch of Himalayan salt
freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 organic eggs, lightly whisked
1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
40g (half a cup) grated parmesan cheese
Preheat oven to 220C and grease a baking tray with the olive oil.
In a medium bowl, combine the sweet potato, onion, cumin, salt pepper and eggs.
Use your hands to squeeze out any excess moisture and spread the mixture over the baking tray. Sprinkle the parmesan cheese over the mixture and cook in the oven for 30 minutes or until crispy.
Remove from the oven, cut into 4 large slices and serve hot.
I forgot to take a photo.
I made this for lunch with some chicken maryland and then reheated the hash to have with dinner. It's not so nice reheated .. a bit dry, so I recommend you eat it all at the first sitting.
I also think it would be nice with some bacon chopped through it OR served with either chopped baby spinach or rocket (or both together) sprinkled over it and a dollop of sour cream.
I think Happy Harry would like this recipe, considering his new love for sweet potato.
This afternoon, I had catch up drinks with Woman of Many Talents, who has been away travelling and also with Mrs Bucket, who will be moving away this year. A couple of other friends, The Dog Walker and Goldilocks joined us briefly too.
It was a nice afternoon.
Adoring Husband spent the day in Gympie at some SES training, so I was able to squeeze in some study time this morning too.
The only disappointing part of the day was when my football team lost to New Zealand - bugger!
I'm excited that Wimbledon Tennis Championships start this Monday, but I have 3 assignments due in three weeks, so sadly, I'm going to have to prioritise and NOT stay up all night watching tennis.
It's rapidly heading towards 1am, so I'm off to bed.
Nite all.
"Eat Yourself Beautiful" by Lee Holmes.
Apparently you can get it cheaper at Kmart and Big W - for around $20.
The recipes are quick and easy and focus on anti-inflammatory foods. Lots of gluten free, wheat free, sugar free, dairy free and vegetarian recipes. It also has lots of interesting information at the front of the book explaining which foods to avoid and why, alternative sweeteners, detoxing, good fats, vitamins and minerals, meal plans and a shopping list.
I made my first recipe out of it today. Sweet Potato Hash.
The basic recipe:
1 Large sweet potato, peeled and grated
1 small onion, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
pinch of Himalayan salt
freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 organic eggs, lightly whisked
1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
40g (half a cup) grated parmesan cheese
Preheat oven to 220C and grease a baking tray with the olive oil.
In a medium bowl, combine the sweet potato, onion, cumin, salt pepper and eggs.
Use your hands to squeeze out any excess moisture and spread the mixture over the baking tray. Sprinkle the parmesan cheese over the mixture and cook in the oven for 30 minutes or until crispy.
Remove from the oven, cut into 4 large slices and serve hot.
I forgot to take a photo.
I made this for lunch with some chicken maryland and then reheated the hash to have with dinner. It's not so nice reheated .. a bit dry, so I recommend you eat it all at the first sitting.
I also think it would be nice with some bacon chopped through it OR served with either chopped baby spinach or rocket (or both together) sprinkled over it and a dollop of sour cream.
I think Happy Harry would like this recipe, considering his new love for sweet potato.
This afternoon, I had catch up drinks with Woman of Many Talents, who has been away travelling and also with Mrs Bucket, who will be moving away this year. A couple of other friends, The Dog Walker and Goldilocks joined us briefly too.
It was a nice afternoon.
Adoring Husband spent the day in Gympie at some SES training, so I was able to squeeze in some study time this morning too.
The only disappointing part of the day was when my football team lost to New Zealand - bugger!
I'm excited that Wimbledon Tennis Championships start this Monday, but I have 3 assignments due in three weeks, so sadly, I'm going to have to prioritise and NOT stay up all night watching tennis.
It's rapidly heading towards 1am, so I'm off to bed.
Nite all.
Friday, June 20, 2014
Just Quietly
Just quietly, it's Friday night.
Wine.
Footy.
Sleep.
Number 49 in #100happydays ...
It was the only photo that I got of my little Chicklet this visit and she's using my arm as a cheese platter!
And it's good night from me :)
Nite all.
Wine.
Footy.
Sleep.
Number 49 in #100happydays ...
It was the only photo that I got of my little Chicklet this visit and she's using my arm as a cheese platter!
And it's good night from me :)
Nite all.
Jiggedy Jig
Home again, home again.
An interesting trip home on the train, with twenty people piling onto my carriage when we stopped at Maryborough .. a group all heading to 1770 for two days and then on to Longreach. They were an older rowdy bunch of people obviously intent on having a good time!
Twenty minutes later, when the train stopped at Howard, at least twenty people disembarked with me! I've never seen so many people get off the train there!
Adoring Husband had been to pick up our FROG box beforehand, so the back of the car was packed full by the time all of my gear was loaded.
What a delicious haul this week!
I've had a nice quiet, peaceful and relaxing time this evening while AH had SES business to attend.
Tomorrow will be the beginning of some heavy duty studying, with 4 assignments due in three weeks!
I can feel the stress beginning to churn in my belly.
Wish me luck!
Nite all.
An interesting trip home on the train, with twenty people piling onto my carriage when we stopped at Maryborough .. a group all heading to 1770 for two days and then on to Longreach. They were an older rowdy bunch of people obviously intent on having a good time!
Twenty minutes later, when the train stopped at Howard, at least twenty people disembarked with me! I've never seen so many people get off the train there!
Adoring Husband had been to pick up our FROG box beforehand, so the back of the car was packed full by the time all of my gear was loaded.
What a delicious haul this week!
I've had a nice quiet, peaceful and relaxing time this evening while AH had SES business to attend.
Tomorrow will be the beginning of some heavy duty studying, with 4 assignments due in three weeks!
I can feel the stress beginning to churn in my belly.
Wish me luck!
Nite all.
Wednesday, June 18, 2014
Game Two
Yes! It's State of Origin night again .. game two!
I'm listening to the game online tonight because I'm on the Sunny Coast with no TV.
Queensland have run onto the field and apparently the New South Wales side are still sitting in the dressing rooms attempting to psyche the maroon team out. *rolls eyes*
I think the Blues (NSW) have a good chance of winning this year .. finally .. after eight years in a row losing, it's time they got their act together.
I've had another lovely day with my little Chicklet today, but haven't taken any photos .. must do that tomorrow morning before I leave! It's what happens when I'm 'in the moment' and because she doesn't like the camera, I try to avoid making her uncomfortable.
Anyway, here is another photo from the Bunya trip ...
I'm off to listen to the game.
Nite all.
I'm listening to the game online tonight because I'm on the Sunny Coast with no TV.
Queensland have run onto the field and apparently the New South Wales side are still sitting in the dressing rooms attempting to psyche the maroon team out. *rolls eyes*
I think the Blues (NSW) have a good chance of winning this year .. finally .. after eight years in a row losing, it's time they got their act together.
I've had another lovely day with my little Chicklet today, but haven't taken any photos .. must do that tomorrow morning before I leave! It's what happens when I'm 'in the moment' and because she doesn't like the camera, I try to avoid making her uncomfortable.
Anyway, here is another photo from the Bunya trip ...
I'm off to listen to the game.
Nite all.
Tuesday, June 17, 2014
Happiness is ...
Happiness is definitely spending time with my little Chicklet. The 'warm and fuzzies' just envelop my heart so many times in one day, it's overwhelming.
She's so cute and precious and cheeky and funny and smart and endearing and loveable and curious and hungry for knowledge and imaginative and creative and intense and amazing and perfect that I just want to hug her and squeeze her and love her to pieces!
Can you tell that I've had a great day with her?
We bought a new stretchy rubbery frog this morning and a squeezy dinosaur to add to the toy collection and we played on the bottom step with little rubber duckies and silver chain for hours.
We pretended that the furry blanket was a pond and we lined the pond creatures around the outer edges while Chicklet pretended to splash and swim and paddle around the pond.
In between that I baked a chicken and then made chicken stock. Vegan Chickie made a DELICIOUS Minestrone Soup in the slow cooker and we ate that for dinner tonight.
So all in all, a pretty productive day for everyone!
Two more photos from our Bunya trip ...
I had a great sleep last night and I hope to emulate that tonight, so ...
Nite all.
She's so cute and precious and cheeky and funny and smart and endearing and loveable and curious and hungry for knowledge and imaginative and creative and intense and amazing and perfect that I just want to hug her and squeeze her and love her to pieces!
Can you tell that I've had a great day with her?
We bought a new stretchy rubbery frog this morning and a squeezy dinosaur to add to the toy collection and we played on the bottom step with little rubber duckies and silver chain for hours.
We pretended that the furry blanket was a pond and we lined the pond creatures around the outer edges while Chicklet pretended to splash and swim and paddle around the pond.
In between that I baked a chicken and then made chicken stock. Vegan Chickie made a DELICIOUS Minestrone Soup in the slow cooker and we ate that for dinner tonight.
So all in all, a pretty productive day for everyone!
Two more photos from our Bunya trip ...
I had a great sleep last night and I hope to emulate that tonight, so ...
Nite all.
Monday, June 16, 2014
I'm Baaa-aaack!
I'm here for a brief post and to share a couple of photos, because I'm not home yet and have only just got internet access after four days away from all civilisation in the freezing cold Bunya Mountains!
I have, at last, thawed out from the freezing temperatures and chilling winds, but I had a wonderful time with a great bunch of friends and have returned home with some fun memories to last a lifetime.
Day one was wet and miserable and kept us indoors, so imagination was the order of the day. Some poor acting on my part, some amazing make-up and awesome modelling by Mellylicious, along with great lighting by the others, awesome photography and skilful photoshopping by The Nikonian to produce this ...
I still have stacks of photos to go through, but for the last hour of our visit this morning, we had so many beautiful birds on our verandah eating out of Mellylicious and The Nikonian's hands. It was such a wonderful end to our long weekend.
This beautiful Crimson Rosella was eating breakfast in the tree beside our house.
This was our house for the few days.
I will share more after I return home and have some time to sit down, go through the photos and remember what a superb area we stayed in and describe the glorious scenery and abundant wildlife.
Meanwhile I have a few days on the Sunny Coast, so excuse me while I indulge in some much needed Chicklet time!
Nite all.
I have, at last, thawed out from the freezing temperatures and chilling winds, but I had a wonderful time with a great bunch of friends and have returned home with some fun memories to last a lifetime.
Day one was wet and miserable and kept us indoors, so imagination was the order of the day. Some poor acting on my part, some amazing make-up and awesome modelling by Mellylicious, along with great lighting by the others, awesome photography and skilful photoshopping by The Nikonian to produce this ...
I still have stacks of photos to go through, but for the last hour of our visit this morning, we had so many beautiful birds on our verandah eating out of Mellylicious and The Nikonian's hands. It was such a wonderful end to our long weekend.
This beautiful Crimson Rosella was eating breakfast in the tree beside our house.
This was our house for the few days.
I will share more after I return home and have some time to sit down, go through the photos and remember what a superb area we stayed in and describe the glorious scenery and abundant wildlife.
Meanwhile I have a few days on the Sunny Coast, so excuse me while I indulge in some much needed Chicklet time!
Nite all.
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