Filled with dread. Fighting off panic. Quietly, so nobody will feel uncomfortable.
Another passenger jet down. Another.
I simply do not care whether flying is still statistically safe. Nothing will happen, to us. The chance is so slim. Almost non-existent. Driving is more dangerous - and whilst I can believe that (hrm), if you're in a car crash you might be OK. If you're in a crashing plane you're toast. Done for. No two ways about it. I'm sure everyone on every plane says nothing will happen to them, flying is safe. Yet - two down in a few short months.
I live in Australia. My family lives in Sweden.
I really, really, don't care about statements from some airlines that they will avoid a certain space above eastern Ukraine. It means nothing. Less than nothing. Firstly, they are probably lying. Secondly, they all fly over Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan etcetera, anyway. And if someone in Ukraine has a weapon that can shoot down an airliner that high up - country borders do not matter.
Also, I don't want to hear crap like if it's your time it's your time. There is no such thing as fate, only chance. Cruel, bad luck or the opposite; luck. It's not written (sorry, but that's bullshit).
We leave Tuesday week.
I have no will (too morbid) but...
All I want is for everyone to be happy. If for some reason we don't make it, know that I wanted to sit on a verandah with you all in 30 years time; drink cheap wine and smoke illegal tobacco - looking back and laughing.
And my mother gets half the house. That is all.
Showing posts with label Angry Anna. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Angry Anna. Show all posts
Sunday, 20 July 2014
Monday, 9 July 2012
Day 11: this upsets me
Oh dear. Big, big headline.
Many things upset me. Should probably divide these into a "main" category and a "secondary" category; as not all of the things which upset me are of equal importance. Personally think it is very good that I can see that. Not everybody can make this distinction.
MAIN
1. Eating Animals; the callous rearing, slaughtering (often in disgusting torture-chambers known as feedlots) and consuming of sentient beings under the false pretence that "we are carnivores."
Newsflash: we are anything but. Physically and biologically we are, in fact, (most like) herbivores. We can be classified as omnivores; based on the fact that humans are opportunistic eaters, and can eat anything (pretty much). But just because we can digest meat, does not suggest that we should.
A dog is a carnivore. I am not advocating feeding your dog steamed broccoli and pine nuts for dinner. It does upset me however, the a lot of people would prefer the same eating habits as the (biologically different) dog; than see common sense.
2. Plastic Pollution (land and ocean).
Have already touched upon this one a few days ago...
3. Religion
Basically all religions, across the board. Some, clearly, more than others. Whilst some religions are relatively harmless; their very existence is slightly upsetting to me because of what they pave the way for and encourage: that is to say, the rest of the evil lot. Religions do and have historically done nothing but lie, deceive, hate, oppress and line its own pockets. Religion has always been, and is still to some extent, a reason to instil fear, encourage war and dis-empower people.
There is an argument that if there were no religion, people would find a way to do these things anyway. That may be true, but by definition does not excuse it. One problem at a time...
(I do not believe religion and spirituality are the same thing)
4. Mainstream media.
Are we really that stupid..?
5. Coal Seam Gas mining (CSG).
This might be one of the greatest threats to our water-supplies and health today. Lock the gate.
SECONDARY
1. Justin Bieber and Justin Bieber's fanbase.
Seeing JB's popularity and viewing pictures of screaming teenage girls ("fans") makes me doubt the entire future of humankind. It also beggars the question - "do we even deserve to survive?" With the unavoidable answers being "probably not."
2. Obesity.
Western society spends billions of dollars researching and attempting to "fix" something which is a non-issue. All this glorious cash should be spent feeding the hungry; now there's a real issue.
The solution to the obesity crisis is very simple. It is this: Stop bloody eating and get off your ass. McDonalds, KFC and the honourable Dr Atkins have done us no favours.
So if we could atleast agree to stop squandering money on fat people, once and for all realise that a plant-based wholefoods diet does not make you fat (even if you have chocolate sometimes!) and start concetrating on what's really important.
3. Commercial breaks on TV.
It is just ridiculous. Trying to watch a show or a movie on telly these days; you end up watching more ads than anything else. Suppose is good things though, as has reduced television watching to a minimum (do still watch shows and movies, just not on TV).
4. Traffic.
In particular all other drivers.
5. Cold weather!
Hate layer upon layer of clothing and two thick doonas on bed - summer, come back!
Phew!
I never push my opinions on other people.
This is my blog so I can say what I want.
Many things upset me. Should probably divide these into a "main" category and a "secondary" category; as not all of the things which upset me are of equal importance. Personally think it is very good that I can see that. Not everybody can make this distinction.
MAIN
1. Eating Animals; the callous rearing, slaughtering (often in disgusting torture-chambers known as feedlots) and consuming of sentient beings under the false pretence that "we are carnivores."
Newsflash: we are anything but. Physically and biologically we are, in fact, (most like) herbivores. We can be classified as omnivores; based on the fact that humans are opportunistic eaters, and can eat anything (pretty much). But just because we can digest meat, does not suggest that we should.
A dog is a carnivore. I am not advocating feeding your dog steamed broccoli and pine nuts for dinner. It does upset me however, the a lot of people would prefer the same eating habits as the (biologically different) dog; than see common sense.
2. Plastic Pollution (land and ocean).
Have already touched upon this one a few days ago...
3. Religion
Basically all religions, across the board. Some, clearly, more than others. Whilst some religions are relatively harmless; their very existence is slightly upsetting to me because of what they pave the way for and encourage: that is to say, the rest of the evil lot. Religions do and have historically done nothing but lie, deceive, hate, oppress and line its own pockets. Religion has always been, and is still to some extent, a reason to instil fear, encourage war and dis-empower people.
There is an argument that if there were no religion, people would find a way to do these things anyway. That may be true, but by definition does not excuse it. One problem at a time...
(I do not believe religion and spirituality are the same thing)
4. Mainstream media.
Are we really that stupid..?
5. Coal Seam Gas mining (CSG).
This might be one of the greatest threats to our water-supplies and health today. Lock the gate.
SECONDARY
1. Justin Bieber and Justin Bieber's fanbase.
Seeing JB's popularity and viewing pictures of screaming teenage girls ("fans") makes me doubt the entire future of humankind. It also beggars the question - "do we even deserve to survive?" With the unavoidable answers being "probably not."
2. Obesity.
Western society spends billions of dollars researching and attempting to "fix" something which is a non-issue. All this glorious cash should be spent feeding the hungry; now there's a real issue.
The solution to the obesity crisis is very simple. It is this: Stop bloody eating and get off your ass. McDonalds, KFC and the honourable Dr Atkins have done us no favours.
So if we could atleast agree to stop squandering money on fat people, once and for all realise that a plant-based wholefoods diet does not make you fat (even if you have chocolate sometimes!) and start concetrating on what's really important.
3. Commercial breaks on TV.
It is just ridiculous. Trying to watch a show or a movie on telly these days; you end up watching more ads than anything else. Suppose is good things though, as has reduced television watching to a minimum (do still watch shows and movies, just not on TV).
4. Traffic.
In particular all other drivers.
5. Cold weather!
Hate layer upon layer of clothing and two thick doonas on bed - summer, come back!
Phew!
I never push my opinions on other people.
This is my blog so I can say what I want.
Sunday, 1 July 2012
Day 10: my day
Woke up at sunrise, sat on balcony with tea.
Went to catch up with Louise in Pottsville; observed some atrocious driver-behaviour, being Sunday and all.
For example:
- Tail gating
- Weaving
- Pulling out dangerously close to motorcycle (there is reason they are commonly referred to as "organ donors" suppose)
- Road rage (for instance motorcyclist against driver who pulled out dangerously close to him)
- Stopping on shoulder
- Going slow in the right lane
- Tandem driving (i.e making out like you are going to overtake, then simply cruising along next to another car)
Etcetera... cannot believe amount of complaining people around here do about the roads. How the government needs to "fix" our roads, which are catastrophically dangerous, apparently.
Anna's input to the road-debate: Roads would be less dangerous if people did not drive like idiots.
I digress.
Made it to Pottsville, had lovely time catching up and discussing important world-issues.
Now am back home updating blog.
There is only so much can fit into a day!
Went to catch up with Louise in Pottsville; observed some atrocious driver-behaviour, being Sunday and all.
For example:
- Tail gating
- Weaving
- Pulling out dangerously close to motorcycle (there is reason they are commonly referred to as "organ donors" suppose)
- Road rage (for instance motorcyclist against driver who pulled out dangerously close to him)
- Stopping on shoulder
- Going slow in the right lane
- Tandem driving (i.e making out like you are going to overtake, then simply cruising along next to another car)
Etcetera... cannot believe amount of complaining people around here do about the roads. How the government needs to "fix" our roads, which are catastrophically dangerous, apparently.
Anna's input to the road-debate: Roads would be less dangerous if people did not drive like idiots.
I digress.
Made it to Pottsville, had lovely time catching up and discussing important world-issues.
Now am back home updating blog.
There is only so much can fit into a day!
Saturday, 30 June 2012
Day 9: my favourite time of year (and Tallow winter morning pics)
Summer. Summer, summer, summer.
Preferably a real stinker, rendering everyone else uselessly sprawling across lounges underneath AC-units, panting and begging for mercy.
At the moment we are in winter! Remember my NYE-resolution of walking on beach every day at sunrise? Well. Finally done it! Not exactly sunrise, as such though. But at least was early!
Nice, right?
Until we picked up a piece of plastic.
And another one.
And another.
You can't stop.
This is only about ten minutes worth... on one of the most pristine beaches around. Truly.
Noticed as part of the list that I will write about things that upset me... Well, here is a taste.
Plastic, and other assorted garbage ending up in the ocean! Because people are ignorant, lazy and wasteful. Buying CRAP we do not need, replacing things that are not broken. Littering.
Plastic in oceans kill wildlife and end up inside fish; thus polluting the food-supply of those who still believe it is a good idea to eat fish (sure, there are some health-benefits, though nothing we cannot get from other sources - which are far less detrimental to the earth, and far less toxic).
When was last time you heard about this on the news? Right, me neither. On news this morning (admittedly, channel 7, but still): Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes split. Whaaat..? Let me get notebook.
More to come...
Preferably a real stinker, rendering everyone else uselessly sprawling across lounges underneath AC-units, panting and begging for mercy.
At the moment we are in winter! Remember my NYE-resolution of walking on beach every day at sunrise? Well. Finally done it! Not exactly sunrise, as such though. But at least was early!
Nice, right?
Until we picked up a piece of plastic.
And another one.
And another.
You can't stop.
This is only about ten minutes worth... on one of the most pristine beaches around. Truly.
Noticed as part of the list that I will write about things that upset me... Well, here is a taste.
Plastic, and other assorted garbage ending up in the ocean! Because people are ignorant, lazy and wasteful. Buying CRAP we do not need, replacing things that are not broken. Littering.
Plastic in oceans kill wildlife and end up inside fish; thus polluting the food-supply of those who still believe it is a good idea to eat fish (sure, there are some health-benefits, though nothing we cannot get from other sources - which are far less detrimental to the earth, and far less toxic).
When was last time you heard about this on the news? Right, me neither. On news this morning (admittedly, channel 7, but still): Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes split. Whaaat..? Let me get notebook.
More to come...
Wednesday, 13 June 2012
Broken Laptop and Dash to Melbourne
Laptop decided to break down last week. No warning.
Pile of garbage...
Noticed laptop was using battery instead of simply using power provided by wall socket. Typical computer-behaviour I figured, deciding to ignore it. Thought, perhaps laptop will realise need to use regular power once battery is out. Logical, right? No. Hubby, when home from work, could hardly believe my stupidity. Had let laptop completely run out of battery, rendering it stone-dead. Once again have been reminded that computers do not operate according to logical and rational rules. Technology is a mystery of infinite proportions. In any case, unreachable to me. That is why do not have iphone.
Finally have it back! Is amazing how can hardly live without a computer these days. Do not care very much for mobile phone, ipod, ipad, etcetera - but definitely cannot exist without laptop. Was saying to hubby the damn thing is almost brand new! Hubby explained patiently that 2.5 years is about the lifespan of a laptop, and means is no longer brand new.
Oh. Ok then. Typical wasteful consumerist society always at the root of all evil. Designed to be landfill. Nonetheless... need one.
Actually decided to make last minute high-flier dash to Melbourne! Here are some photos from Phillip Island which snapped before camera-battery died.
(pile of garbage)
Pile of garbage...
Noticed laptop was using battery instead of simply using power provided by wall socket. Typical computer-behaviour I figured, deciding to ignore it. Thought, perhaps laptop will realise need to use regular power once battery is out. Logical, right? No. Hubby, when home from work, could hardly believe my stupidity. Had let laptop completely run out of battery, rendering it stone-dead. Once again have been reminded that computers do not operate according to logical and rational rules. Technology is a mystery of infinite proportions. In any case, unreachable to me. That is why do not have iphone.
Finally have it back! Is amazing how can hardly live without a computer these days. Do not care very much for mobile phone, ipod, ipad, etcetera - but definitely cannot exist without laptop. Was saying to hubby the damn thing is almost brand new! Hubby explained patiently that 2.5 years is about the lifespan of a laptop, and means is no longer brand new.
Oh. Ok then. Typical wasteful consumerist society always at the root of all evil. Designed to be landfill. Nonetheless... need one.
Actually decided to make last minute high-flier dash to Melbourne! Here are some photos from Phillip Island which snapped before camera-battery died.
(pile of garbage)
Monday, 23 April 2012
More Enlightenment
As part of becoming more enlightened, zen-like and angelic; one must learn to recognise instances when one is feeling annoyed and angry for whatever reason - and let go of all negative emotions involved.
You see, we are only hurting ourselves by being angry. If you are angry, say, at another person - who is really suffering? You or them? That is right - you (unless of course you are the physically violent type).
Things on which I practise this:
- People using grass-trimmers and other power-tools
- The Laptop
- The vacuum cleaner
- Range of things hubby does (like starting to drive first, then putting seatbelt on... who does that?)
- Things that do not do what they were designed to do, hence serve no purpose
- Things that really serve no purpose, like ornaments
- Stupid people who are under the impression that they are cool
As you can see, most days are filled with opportunities to become more enlightened.
Yay.
You see, we are only hurting ourselves by being angry. If you are angry, say, at another person - who is really suffering? You or them? That is right - you (unless of course you are the physically violent type).
Things on which I practise this:
- People using grass-trimmers and other power-tools
- The Laptop
- The vacuum cleaner
- Range of things hubby does (like starting to drive first, then putting seatbelt on... who does that?)
- Things that do not do what they were designed to do, hence serve no purpose
- Things that really serve no purpose, like ornaments
- Stupid people who are under the impression that they are cool
As you can see, most days are filled with opportunities to become more enlightened.
Yay.
Saturday, 10 December 2011
Time to Run Away?
Designed them to look like Swedish Meatballs. Made them in manner similar to how one might make Swedish Meatballs.
(Apart, of course, from the ground up animals.)
In midst of all this creativity, something unfortunately got over-looked.
Taste.
Panic-mode.
OH MY GOD HAVE GUESTS COMING TOMORROW WHAT WILL I DO CANNOT POSSIBLY serve guests potato-bake, salad and bread and pretend like those are the main dishes... or can I?
Will I just heat up the saw-dust-crossed-with-sand inspired balls and act like all is normal?
Will I text everyone in morning saying event cancelled as have just come down with cholera?
Will I go down to White Shop in morning and purchase pre-made vege-balls of some description for like a 100 bucks and pretend I cooked them myself?
Will I, perhaps, emigrate back to Sweden as a matter of urgency and never cook again..?
Think is now safe to say that have greatly over-estimated my abilities in the kitchen.
Friday, 18 November 2011
Driving in the Bay
A few words regarding driving in Byron Bay.
If at all possible; this activity should be avoided at all cost.
Yet, being a country-town (sort of) and completely lacking things like public transport - I find myself behind the wheel on a regular basis.
Unfortunately, so do other people.
You see, this would be a total non-issue were it not for other drivers. And to the sceptic - YES it really is them, not me. So...
Dear Other Drivers of Byron Bay!
I have devised a couple of helpful instructions for you, so that we may all enjoy the driving experience around the Bay.
Firstly, refrain from entering a "main road" from other (side) roads (including carparks) if a car is approaching and it is clear that the driver of this car will have to slam their breaks and come to a complete stop in order to not crash into you. The correct course of action in this situation is TO WAIT YOUR BLOODY TURN.
Secondly, no U-Turns on Lawson Street. Seriously?!? Use one of the roundabouts on either end of the street - which are never more than 50 metres away from you.
If you are parked on the side of the street - well done to you for scoring a spot there! Still, you should respect the law and pull out only when there is an opening, instead of pulling out whenever YOU FEEL LIKE IT and nearly crashing into the sides of other traffic.
Perhaps most importantly: Use your indicators. On the side of your steering wheel, usually on the right side (but please do a test run before you head out into traffic) there is a little lever which you can move up or down depending on whether you are turning left or right.
But BEWARE! Many drivers are driving around with their indicators ON - but they are NOT actually planning to turn! This is misleading and also wrong. I know this is very, very, hard to get.
Let's stay on the topic of indicators for now. When entering a roundabout, if you are turning left: indicate left. If, on the other hand, you are turning right: indicate right. Yes! Even in a roundabout! Some people, who actually HAVE a drivers-license, will also indicate OUT of the roundabout. This we can consider an extra bonus and you do not need to worry about that one right now.
At no time is it strictly speaking necessary to drive within one metre of the vehicle in front of you. This is called tail-gating, and is OK in Queensland - but try to avoid it anywhere else.
Cyclists should... you know what, nevermind.
If at all possible; this activity should be avoided at all cost.
Yet, being a country-town (sort of) and completely lacking things like public transport - I find myself behind the wheel on a regular basis.
Unfortunately, so do other people.
You see, this would be a total non-issue were it not for other drivers. And to the sceptic - YES it really is them, not me. So...
Dear Other Drivers of Byron Bay!
I have devised a couple of helpful instructions for you, so that we may all enjoy the driving experience around the Bay.
Firstly, refrain from entering a "main road" from other (side) roads (including carparks) if a car is approaching and it is clear that the driver of this car will have to slam their breaks and come to a complete stop in order to not crash into you. The correct course of action in this situation is TO WAIT YOUR BLOODY TURN.
Secondly, no U-Turns on Lawson Street. Seriously?!? Use one of the roundabouts on either end of the street - which are never more than 50 metres away from you.
If you are parked on the side of the street - well done to you for scoring a spot there! Still, you should respect the law and pull out only when there is an opening, instead of pulling out whenever YOU FEEL LIKE IT and nearly crashing into the sides of other traffic.
Perhaps most importantly: Use your indicators. On the side of your steering wheel, usually on the right side (but please do a test run before you head out into traffic) there is a little lever which you can move up or down depending on whether you are turning left or right.
But BEWARE! Many drivers are driving around with their indicators ON - but they are NOT actually planning to turn! This is misleading and also wrong. I know this is very, very, hard to get.
Let's stay on the topic of indicators for now. When entering a roundabout, if you are turning left: indicate left. If, on the other hand, you are turning right: indicate right. Yes! Even in a roundabout! Some people, who actually HAVE a drivers-license, will also indicate OUT of the roundabout. This we can consider an extra bonus and you do not need to worry about that one right now.
At no time is it strictly speaking necessary to drive within one metre of the vehicle in front of you. This is called tail-gating, and is OK in Queensland - but try to avoid it anywhere else.
Cyclists should... you know what, nevermind.
Monday, 7 November 2011
Bizarre Phonecall and Lesson Thereby Learned
Back in August, in blog entitled "Hinterland, More People at Door & a Walk" (can be found under Blog Archives) I told the saga of a so called Roy Morgan Research Poll that was asked to participate in. Asked, that is to say - someone walked all the way up to front door; caught me out, informed me they needed a few minutes of my time and proceeded to ask meaningless questions about things like TV-watching for over 45 minutes.
Extract:
"This time, was asked by mystery-guest to take part in Morgan Poll (Roy Morgan Research). The Morgan Poll is, apparently, the most widely accepted Australian opinion poll there is. And was only going to take a few moments. Fabulous!
Of course, wish to do my part and ensure I make a "significant contribution to social and political decision-making and project development in Australia"! 45 minutes later was starting to feel slightly less enthusiastic, and when I was finally done politely declining to discuss my income and / or bank balance as well as admitting to having drunk eight out of ten types of booze in the past week - immediately rung up Swedish Neighbour to warn her of impending doom. She has two kids under the age of three, and certainly no time to contribute to statistics in a meaningful way..."...
End of extract.
Following the Incident - people from Roy Morgan (who have my mobile number given to them by YOURS TRULY in very weak moment of audacious trust) have been calling incessantly to... well, not quite sure, as they without fail ring whilst am cooking dinner - so have never picked up. Assumed they would eventually get the message and lose my number, as it were.
Wrong.
... It was Friday night... after a long day... was halfway through bottle of Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc... was in middle of preparing vegan Spinach & Pea Lasagna, when...
The telephone rings!!! Am distracted... pick it up - HUGE mistake... The following conversation ensues, practically verbatim
- this really happened!!!
RMRR (Roy Morgan Research Rep): - "Hello, I'm calling from Roy Morgan Research, about six weeks ago you participated in a face to face interview with one of our researchers who had a computer screen? (...) Unfortunately the screen was broken so I just need to confirm a few details from you if that's possible?"
Me: - "Ok, what?" (stirring spinach mix, hoping against reason that it will be quick so can hang up)
RMRR: - "(...) Well, uhm, do you smoke?"
Me: - "No..." (slightly taken aback by surprising question, do not recall this even being in original interview)
RMRR: (sounding very surprised) - "So you don't smoke cigars?!"
*Note: CIGARS. Not cigarettes, like normal people - cigars. As if were businessman-from-the-Fifties.*
Me: (a little offended, very annoyed - admittedly always get much more annoyed with stupid people after having consumed sav blanc) - "NO!" (attempting to send strong message with tone of voice)
RMRR: (having collected himself after shock of finding out that I do not smoke cigars after all) - "Oh good. Can I just confirm your last name?"
Me: - "NO. Goodbye!"
I eagerly anticipate the continuation of this tale. Will there be another phonecall? Or perhaps, oh mercy, will they blacklist me? One can only hope.
Hubby has duly lectured me for giving out name and phone number in first place. Very careless behaviour.
Increases levels of assertiveness..?
Extract:
"This time, was asked by mystery-guest to take part in Morgan Poll (Roy Morgan Research). The Morgan Poll is, apparently, the most widely accepted Australian opinion poll there is. And was only going to take a few moments. Fabulous!
Of course, wish to do my part and ensure I make a "significant contribution to social and political decision-making and project development in Australia"! 45 minutes later was starting to feel slightly less enthusiastic, and when I was finally done politely declining to discuss my income and / or bank balance as well as admitting to having drunk eight out of ten types of booze in the past week - immediately rung up Swedish Neighbour to warn her of impending doom. She has two kids under the age of three, and certainly no time to contribute to statistics in a meaningful way..."...
End of extract.
Following the Incident - people from Roy Morgan (who have my mobile number given to them by YOURS TRULY in very weak moment of audacious trust) have been calling incessantly to... well, not quite sure, as they without fail ring whilst am cooking dinner - so have never picked up. Assumed they would eventually get the message and lose my number, as it were.
Wrong.
... It was Friday night... after a long day... was halfway through bottle of Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc... was in middle of preparing vegan Spinach & Pea Lasagna, when...
The telephone rings!!! Am distracted... pick it up - HUGE mistake... The following conversation ensues, practically verbatim
- this really happened!!!
RMRR (Roy Morgan Research Rep): - "Hello, I'm calling from Roy Morgan Research, about six weeks ago you participated in a face to face interview with one of our researchers who had a computer screen? (...) Unfortunately the screen was broken so I just need to confirm a few details from you if that's possible?"
Me: - "Ok, what?" (stirring spinach mix, hoping against reason that it will be quick so can hang up)
RMRR: - "(...) Well, uhm, do you smoke?"
Me: - "No..." (slightly taken aback by surprising question, do not recall this even being in original interview)
RMRR: (sounding very surprised) - "So you don't smoke cigars?!"
*Note: CIGARS. Not cigarettes, like normal people - cigars. As if were businessman-from-the-Fifties.*
Me: (a little offended, very annoyed - admittedly always get much more annoyed with stupid people after having consumed sav blanc) - "NO!" (attempting to send strong message with tone of voice)
RMRR: (having collected himself after shock of finding out that I do not smoke cigars after all) - "Oh good. Can I just confirm your last name?"
Me: - "NO. Goodbye!"
I eagerly anticipate the continuation of this tale. Will there be another phonecall? Or perhaps, oh mercy, will they blacklist me? One can only hope.
Hubby has duly lectured me for giving out name and phone number in first place. Very careless behaviour.
Increases levels of assertiveness..?
Friday, 21 October 2011
Mazes and Nets (still at war?)
Realise storyline about bush-turkey starting to take on obsessive proportions.
Nevertheless, must share latest move in war.
You see, I do not believe we can have won so easily. No. Something is up. The bush-turkey is present somewhere around the house, awaiting the right time to make its move.
Therefore, is vital that we do not slack off, that we do not assume danger has past.
These are my latest tactics:
1.
Figured bush-turkey way too stupid to navigate its way through maze of bricks.
Was wrong. Saw it casually strolling through a number of times, eyeing off veggie-patch; most likely thinking something along lines of "Oh look - more material for the nest that I have temporarily taken a break from building, which I will resume building at my earliest convenience."
(Incidentally - my mind's bush-turkey always has a British accent. Curious.)
2.
Decided, on recommendation from organic-seedling-dude from farmers markets, to place net over garden. Easy enough?
Hubby and I just undertook this task - joyfully and with great ease, effortlessly cutting net to size and arranging it on bamboo poles, etcetera - all the while telling each other how lovely life is and how much we love each other.
Yeah - and pigs fly.
Eventually the bloody-stupid-net-thing was up, sort of.
We seem to have... a couple of gaps. Hopefully (fingers AND toes crossed) bush-turkey too stupid to notice gaps.
Hubby and I are now calming selves with nice soothing glass (read: bottle) of red wine.
Nevertheless, must share latest move in war.
You see, I do not believe we can have won so easily. No. Something is up. The bush-turkey is present somewhere around the house, awaiting the right time to make its move.
Therefore, is vital that we do not slack off, that we do not assume danger has past.
These are my latest tactics:
1.
Figured bush-turkey way too stupid to navigate its way through maze of bricks.
Was wrong. Saw it casually strolling through a number of times, eyeing off veggie-patch; most likely thinking something along lines of "Oh look - more material for the nest that I have temporarily taken a break from building, which I will resume building at my earliest convenience."
(Incidentally - my mind's bush-turkey always has a British accent. Curious.)
2.
Decided, on recommendation from organic-seedling-dude from farmers markets, to place net over garden. Easy enough?
Hubby and I just undertook this task - joyfully and with great ease, effortlessly cutting net to size and arranging it on bamboo poles, etcetera - all the while telling each other how lovely life is and how much we love each other.
Yeah - and pigs fly.
Eventually the bloody-stupid-net-thing was up, sort of.
We seem to have... a couple of gaps. Hopefully (fingers AND toes crossed) bush-turkey too stupid to notice gaps.
Hubby and I are now calming selves with nice soothing glass (read: bottle) of red wine.
Wednesday, 19 October 2011
CSG Rally, Sunday
Last Sunday we participated in Anti-CSG rally right here in Byron Bay. Thousands of people walked onto Lawson Street and laid down in portrayal of death as result of consuming water laced with poison.
They had protests in several places around Australia.
Coal Seam Gas (CSG) is one of the most important issues we should worry about at the moment.
Unfortunately society in general has learnt to frown on activism; on people who rally and protest. Lazily taking the low-road and assuming that little-old-me cannot make a difference anyway, so why bother. And the ever popular "They wouldn't do it if it wasn't safe."
Really? Who are "they"?
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."
- Margaret Mead
They had protests in several places around Australia.
Coal Seam Gas (CSG) is one of the most important issues we should worry about at the moment.
Unfortunately society in general has learnt to frown on activism; on people who rally and protest. Lazily taking the low-road and assuming that little-old-me cannot make a difference anyway, so why bother. And the ever popular "They wouldn't do it if it wasn't safe."
Really? Who are "they"?
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."
- Margaret Mead
Wednesday, 12 October 2011
Riding Lesson and War Declaration
Lots has happened.
Firstly, dog-sitting going well – both dogs seem very happy and content. Why wouldn't they be – everything we do is based around them. Healthy lesson for hubby and I – having dogs is full-time work. At the same time, they are very giving. Love, love, love and affection. Sometimes they smell funny.
Yesterday got to venture out on little daytrip further up the coast (Commodore is dream to drive compared to “dog-car” which I am driving dogs around in; hubby not a fan of manual cars - Nor am I, but thought I would look cool in two-door four wheel drive - of course, I do).
Louise gave me little horse-riding session – was terribly rusty in saddle, horse kept stopping and refusing to move etcetera. Seemed strange to be so sore and sweaty based on mostly standing still.
But was still great, because as always say: Everyday you touch a horse is a good day. Is another one of my sayings (you know, like “a free coffee is a free coffee”).
Now over to today's rant.
This morning before dogs-beach-walk, hubby went to check on house; water gardens and so on. Only to find that pack of nest-building bush-turkeys have totally destroyed entire veggie patch. They have done a very thorough job. Not a bok choy left. Expensive magical soil all over ground...
Both went over to house after walk, with dog-duo, to assess damage and hopefully deter bush-turkeys with help of dogs.
Dogs, however, turned out to be peaceful creatures not in the least bit interested in barking at pile of leaves – instead they slept for a while on the verandah whilst hubby and I carried entire bloody nest, bucketful by bucketful, away from the property and spread it elsewhere.
Take back all previous comments that we like them, and want to allow the nesting and raising of chicks.
That was before they ruined veggie patch and destroyed each and every seedling. Now, it's war. It's revenge.
Do not care if it looks bad to seek revenge on a bird. IT started it!
It's on. War.
Firstly, dog-sitting going well – both dogs seem very happy and content. Why wouldn't they be – everything we do is based around them. Healthy lesson for hubby and I – having dogs is full-time work. At the same time, they are very giving. Love, love, love and affection. Sometimes they smell funny.
Yesterday got to venture out on little daytrip further up the coast (Commodore is dream to drive compared to “dog-car” which I am driving dogs around in; hubby not a fan of manual cars - Nor am I, but thought I would look cool in two-door four wheel drive - of course, I do).
Louise gave me little horse-riding session – was terribly rusty in saddle, horse kept stopping and refusing to move etcetera. Seemed strange to be so sore and sweaty based on mostly standing still.
But was still great, because as always say: Everyday you touch a horse is a good day. Is another one of my sayings (you know, like “a free coffee is a free coffee”).
Now over to today's rant.
This morning before dogs-beach-walk, hubby went to check on house; water gardens and so on. Only to find that pack of nest-building bush-turkeys have totally destroyed entire veggie patch. They have done a very thorough job. Not a bok choy left. Expensive magical soil all over ground...
Both went over to house after walk, with dog-duo, to assess damage and hopefully deter bush-turkeys with help of dogs.
Dogs, however, turned out to be peaceful creatures not in the least bit interested in barking at pile of leaves – instead they slept for a while on the verandah whilst hubby and I carried entire bloody nest, bucketful by bucketful, away from the property and spread it elsewhere.
Take back all previous comments that we like them, and want to allow the nesting and raising of chicks.
That was before they ruined veggie patch and destroyed each and every seedling. Now, it's war. It's revenge.
Do not care if it looks bad to seek revenge on a bird. IT started it!
It's on. War.
Thursday, 8 September 2011
The Exciting Furniture-Assembly Drama, Part 2
Today was second delivery of furniture from - am just going to say it, for everyone to see: Super A-Mart. They picked up damaged shelves, faulty table and one faulty chair. They delivered new shelves, new table and one new chair.
Sum total of today's efforts? One table.
They delivered the wrong box of shelves. Because, obviously, is very difficult to tell "BOX 1" from "BOX 2" - 1 and 2 being right next to each other in the number sequence and all. Fail number one.
Different problem with chair - the holes all there, just not in alignment with each other. Fail number two.
If they had let us keep the old boxes until such time we had assembled all the bits and pieces - we probably would have been OK. Oh but no, such is not the way Super A-Mart does business. Better to chuck everything into a landfill and send us a completely new box. Don't even want to think about what odds are that they will get it right next time. Don't hold your breath!
Hearing Bikram Teacher in back of mind going "You can control your emotions through your breath, you can control your reactions, you can be unaffected by what goes on around you - simply breathe slower, follow your breath and rise above..."
Calm. Calm. Calm!
Is actually very interesting to observe effect of trivial matters on selves. When I take a step back from situation, I can ask: Why get angry? Nothing is going to change. Nobody is going to care. Am only going to make self unhappy. If we could all learn to disregard pointless anger this world would be a better place.
Still...
You know what else would make world a much much better place -
THE IMMEDIATE CLOSURE OF SUPER A-MART!!!
Sum total of today's efforts? One table.
They delivered the wrong box of shelves. Because, obviously, is very difficult to tell "BOX 1" from "BOX 2" - 1 and 2 being right next to each other in the number sequence and all. Fail number one.
Different problem with chair - the holes all there, just not in alignment with each other. Fail number two.
If they had let us keep the old boxes until such time we had assembled all the bits and pieces - we probably would have been OK. Oh but no, such is not the way Super A-Mart does business. Better to chuck everything into a landfill and send us a completely new box. Don't even want to think about what odds are that they will get it right next time. Don't hold your breath!
Hearing Bikram Teacher in back of mind going "You can control your emotions through your breath, you can control your reactions, you can be unaffected by what goes on around you - simply breathe slower, follow your breath and rise above..."
Calm. Calm. Calm!
Is actually very interesting to observe effect of trivial matters on selves. When I take a step back from situation, I can ask: Why get angry? Nothing is going to change. Nobody is going to care. Am only going to make self unhappy. If we could all learn to disregard pointless anger this world would be a better place.
Still...
You know what else would make world a much much better place -
THE IMMEDIATE CLOSURE OF SUPER A-MART!!!
Tuesday, 6 September 2011
Furniture Assembly and a Free Coffee
People always make jokes about how putting furniture together is main reason for divorce in western world.
Am not surprised. Yet , one never learns. One forgets the pain, anguish and general war-zone like conditions within the furniture assembly hell. One thinks - oh well, how bad can it be... - look this is brilliant and cheap am sure they have quality control and come on how hard can it be and yes people always just exaggerate yes it's a great deal let's get it - ... and herein lies one's final mistake.
Have been pissed off in very un-hippie-like way most of yesterday and today. Realise should be able to rise above issues with inanimate items such as tables and chairs, as well as the regrettable incompetence of certain chain furniture-stores. This, however, is proving harder than expected.
So... End result of purchasing table, two chairs and set of shelves you ask? ONE measly chair. Rest of it either damaged or otherwise impossible to assemble due to wholes missing or being out of alignment. No, not because hubby and I are stupid. We are very intelligent and very patient when it comes to... er...
Anyway, the stuff was useless.
Speaking of being pissed off - was recounting tale of annoying tailgating* bastards on road and my ensuing road rage to my friend Louise the other week; she concluded that for someone who aspires to become enlightened, serene; a hippie if you will - I have a very long way to go. Her way of dealing with situations such as that (as opposed to holding up middle finger, throwing self on brake and risking own life) would be to, well, not notice it. And if she did she would say "Chill out man, take it easy," and perhaps tap the breaks lightly in a friendly reminder to keep the distance.
After we assembled the ONE chair, decided to reward selves with coffee - had found voucher for a free one at a cafe in town. This was very good news, as our motto is "A free coffee is a free coffee." This means we must never turn down an offer of a free cup, which usually works out great and has thus far only backfired once. In LA. Happened to be walking past a Subway doing some sort of ridiculous promotion for their new (revolting) bacon & egg breakfast rolls. As we generally disapprove of junkfood, would never have gotten the idea to enter (let alone consume anything from) a Subway. The promotion, however, was free cups of coffee... One glance at each other and it was decided - had to enter, had to grab free coffee and run - were in LA after all, was an adventure.
Unfortunately turned out to be worst cup of coffee ever tasted in entire life. Do not like to waste food or drink, but both cups ended up in bin within two minutes...
Finally today, decided to do something about my anger issues. Who can be angry when you can take an evening stroll at Belongil:
Belongil Creek...
---
*"Tailgating is the practice of driving on a road too close to the vehicle in front, at a distance which does not guarantee that stopping to avoid collision is possible."
- Wikipedia
Am not surprised. Yet , one never learns. One forgets the pain, anguish and general war-zone like conditions within the furniture assembly hell. One thinks - oh well, how bad can it be... - look this is brilliant and cheap am sure they have quality control and come on how hard can it be and yes people always just exaggerate yes it's a great deal let's get it - ... and herein lies one's final mistake.
Have been pissed off in very un-hippie-like way most of yesterday and today. Realise should be able to rise above issues with inanimate items such as tables and chairs, as well as the regrettable incompetence of certain chain furniture-stores. This, however, is proving harder than expected.
So... End result of purchasing table, two chairs and set of shelves you ask? ONE measly chair. Rest of it either damaged or otherwise impossible to assemble due to wholes missing or being out of alignment. No, not because hubby and I are stupid. We are very intelligent and very patient when it comes to... er...
Anyway, the stuff was useless.
Speaking of being pissed off - was recounting tale of annoying tailgating* bastards on road and my ensuing road rage to my friend Louise the other week; she concluded that for someone who aspires to become enlightened, serene; a hippie if you will - I have a very long way to go. Her way of dealing with situations such as that (as opposed to holding up middle finger, throwing self on brake and risking own life) would be to, well, not notice it. And if she did she would say "Chill out man, take it easy," and perhaps tap the breaks lightly in a friendly reminder to keep the distance.
After we assembled the ONE chair, decided to reward selves with coffee - had found voucher for a free one at a cafe in town. This was very good news, as our motto is "A free coffee is a free coffee." This means we must never turn down an offer of a free cup, which usually works out great and has thus far only backfired once. In LA. Happened to be walking past a Subway doing some sort of ridiculous promotion for their new (revolting) bacon & egg breakfast rolls. As we generally disapprove of junkfood, would never have gotten the idea to enter (let alone consume anything from) a Subway. The promotion, however, was free cups of coffee... One glance at each other and it was decided - had to enter, had to grab free coffee and run - were in LA after all, was an adventure.
Unfortunately turned out to be worst cup of coffee ever tasted in entire life. Do not like to waste food or drink, but both cups ended up in bin within two minutes...
Finally today, decided to do something about my anger issues. Who can be angry when you can take an evening stroll at Belongil:
Belongil Creek...
---
*"Tailgating is the practice of driving on a road too close to the vehicle in front, at a distance which does not guarantee that stopping to avoid collision is possible."
- Wikipedia
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