Monday, December 31, 2012

Happy Last Day

Happy Last Day

I hope you achieved some of what you wished to in 2012 
and I hope 2013 is a prosperous year for everyone.
May there be more compassion, 
understanding and empathy amongst humanity.
I hope we all come to appreciate LIFE 
in all it's forms, for all it's significance.
We are not just a part of the Food Chain.
We are a part of a Living System.
What we do matters.
Let us see what, how we effect our environs and people.
Love to all great and small.
We are in this together.

Happy New Year!

Tuesday, December 25, 2012

Chocolate Chippie Chocolate Log

Ingredients:
A pkt Chocolate Chippie Cookies (biscuits)
A sml tin of Peaches in syrup
A sml 300ml bottle of cream (whipped stiff)
A chocolate flake or chocolate bar to grate

Method

Drain peaches keeping syrup for log in a pudding bowl
Whip cream

Take a biscuit dip in peach syrup covering whole biscuit then spread so cream on one side of biscuit approx a heaped teaspoon full. Dip another biscuit in syrup and press gently together avoid squeezing cream out. Then spread cream on biscuit, dip another, press together, cream.
Continue in this manner with biscuits vertical spreading out in a log formation as you build it.
When you have used all the biscuits cover the whole log in cream then sprinkle or grate over the flake bar or other chocolate.

Then chill.

You can make this a couple of hours ahead.
A lovely, easy dessert.

Saturday, December 22, 2012

A post from facebook...

So the world is supposed to be ending today? 
That's sad. I never found out who let the dogs out, the way to get to Sesame Street, why Dora doesn't just use Google maps, why we don't ever see the headline "Psychic Wins Lottery", why women can't put on mascara with their mouth closed, why "abbreviated" is such a long word, why lemon juice is made with artificial flavor yet dishwashing liquid is made with real lemons, why they sterilize the needle for lethal injections and why do you have to "put your two cents in" but it's only a "penny for your thoughts"? Where's that extra penny going to? Why did Joanie love Chachi? If a deaf person has to go to court is it still called a hearing? Can a hearse carrying a corpse drive in the carpool lane? Does the alphabet song and twinkle twinkle little star have the same tune? Why did you just try to sing those two previous songs? And just what is Victoria's secret? You see, the world just has to keep going. I have too many questions......and do you really think I am this witty ???? because I actually stole this from a friend, who stole from a friend, who stole from a friend, who stole from a friend , who stole from a friend .... 
Please steal it again...

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Sharing Beauty

My cyber friend Author Luke Romyn posted this on his facebook page.

Luke's words...
There is something wonderful in damaged goods, something perfection can't compete with.

This is the piece he shared...

"The most beautiful people we have known 
are those who have known defeat, 
known suffering, known struggle, known loss, 
and have found their way out of the depths.
These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, 
and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, 
gentleness, and a deep loving concern.
Beautiful people do not just happen."

Elizabeth Kubler Ros -

Friday, November 30, 2012

A Monk A Procession and Two Racists

Well today was a great day to take a walk.
The sky was a fickle of cloud and deepest blue.
The breeze was brisk and had a bite.
I realised this about 200 metres from home. 
I was not turning back to get a jersey.

The traffic flow was steady. 
I don't know if this was normal for a Friday morning tea time.
But I was walking, I knew I needed to got to the library in Greerton.
The bulky books under my arm wouldn't let me forget that.
I wondered if I looked like an idiot, a common thought of mine.
Generally answered with "Oh well that's me" I little lol-ed. 
A lol, lol would have been quite conspicuous and I don't do intentional conspicuousness.
(No I don't! - For those of you ROFL-ing)

I was really quite pleased with my sober appearance of grey blue 3/4 pant, 
black t-shirt and black sneaker white trim and white laces today.
I was quietly confident I didn't look like a total 70 - 80's reject.
But more reserved and deceivingly normal, (at least I thought this) like who was gonna Gok me!

Anyway I was feeling pretty good having received my last assignment back with another A+
Though it confuses me as the content confuses me like crazy!
Yet I still get a pass, well I hope I can do that again I have like 7 more to do.
But back to feeling good...

Onward I walked and I saw a bike coming in the distance, I didn't look further.
But I loved the rumble as it went by, I smiled as and after the vibe went through me.
It was a good day to be out walking.

I remembered then a book I had wanted to get for the grand sum of 20 cents.
A grand sum that is when you have none. 
I'd left my wallet at home the other day intent on a health walk only.
So I thought, oh yes I must see if it is still there at Waipuna Hospice.

I stopped at the big box of books in the door way of the shop.
I generally try and ignore that these are probably from estates of ones passed.
I scoured the jumble of old, older and old and odd. 
But I couldn't find it, just remembering it was a digest of stories.
(still not recalling who)

Then I came across The Firm - John Grisham
I had to get it my friend and I had been talking about it earlier,
and I don't believe I have a copy of it. 
Oh The Rainmaker that's one of Grisham's I love.
(from same convo earlier I couldn't remember the book) 
I am reading A Time To Kill (his first novel) at the moment.
Having just finished The Street Lawyer which I love,
but my neighbour couldn't get into.

Anyways I bought The Firm.
This score...
Ghost Net by Lynn Davidson a story of summer in the south of NZ written by a New Zealand author.
(I'm thinking it will be good some small NZ stories are fantastic!)
I also bought The Higher Taste - A Guide to Gourmet Vegetarian Cooking and a Karma-Free Diet. 
Happy to wait 10-15 mins to give my 60 cents worth for books that are worth far more than that.

Continuing on coming to the sushi place I had never been to I went in and looked at their food.
I decided to try some it wasn't St Pierre's and I could choose individual pieces.
They just look so very good and I spent less and got just what I wanted.
I believe it is Tokyo Sushi though they had a revamp early this year I think...

So sushi in one hand and a bulk of books under the other I trundled on, it's how I felt I moved at a trundle.
Once again wondering if I looked like an idiot, it really didn't matter either way.

On the home stretch to the library and just outside my bank with a hole in the wall I was stopped.
A young man mid to late 20's maybe, approached me saying, "I see you like to read."
I said "yes I do." He then said in an accented and almost conspiratorial tone "I'm a monk" "sorry?" I replied then he leaned forward pulled his hood back a bit showing his shaven head and flicked his ponytail. "I'm a monk" "Oh right" He then went to spiel about the Bhagavad Gita that he had in one hand.
I told him I had tried to read it and found it hard, told him of another I had read and loved he was seemingly impressed. He then turned to The Journey Of Self Discovery which I also have but I wanted the new one with the pretty pictures and I can always pass the other on. I drew some money from the hole in the wall, sounds on par with - turning water into wine. Then I went to put book in my bag and remembered the cook book. "Oh look what I have I just bought it" I said holding The Higher Taste right in front of his face. "Oh wait that is cool look what I have"The new one" and he did. He said "So you like these books yeah?"
I affirmed that statement and said goodbye.

On the town green speakers were being set up on and around the stage.
I returned the library books then came and sat in a seat on the green to eat my sushi.
It was good sushi great flavour and textures.

I moved on after that retracing my steps, well not exactly just going back the way I'd come.
I was feeling like something sweet to eat 'caramel sundae' jumped into my head.
So at McD's I got a caramel Sundae and a small chips.

Back on the path I saw a hearse approaching in a mass of rumble.
The funeral procession for a 'Prominent Biker' was slowly rumbling through I stopped as many others did to watch and take a moment (at least I did) to reflect on life, the fact it's precious to all of us no matter who we are, humanity in our mortality. 
I also admired their beautiful machines and some their flowing hair and intimidating form and mass of numbers 100's of bikers from The Filthy Few and The Head Hunters. 


Kurt Cobain - Death to Birth - justsomelyrics

I stood staring in what I hope was a respectful yet inconspicuous manner. 
I was not 'feeling the vibes' this time. 
Next thing this lady runs behind me. 
The flapping of her arms catching my attention. 
She was hand signalling her man to take a photo of her with the procession in the back ground. 
I had seen others with phones filming.
I had neither phone or camera and I would not have used them, had I. 
Two reason's mainly. 
One it is a funeral procession. (though family took photos at a funeral once I was appalled, still am) 
Two there are killers in that bunch.
So after approx 15 mins they moved on and so did other rubber neck-ers.
The 'normal traffic' however was backed up for a couple of kilometers, I hope none were in a rush.

Further down the road I could see ladies talking and looking up to Greerton.
As I approached we talked about it I enquired who it was they reminded me of the death down south.
But one of them said "and by an Asian can you believe that?!"
I couldn't believe what she'd just said continued... 
"I can't believe he was killed by someone who doesn't even belong in this country."
I had stuff I wanted to ask say but I deemed her not a reliable and adequate source.
The other lady was making noises of agreeance I was still a little stunned.
Found some sense and said. 
"Well I am sure he and his friends have killed many on purpose."
They both said "Yes true that" and I moved on.

Still walking and musing on what had come to pass, thinking about how this post might come together...
 A little off in writer space I decided to see if crossing the road might happen.
But the traffic nearly a kilometer down the road was slow and steady because of the procession.
So I weaved back in front of a parked 4x4 and this dog started barking and growling.
I jumped a metre side ways, just freaked out! 
The visual from corner of eye a foot gap between window and frame dog head white pitt, staffy, angry.
I turned after initial shock and growled "You stop that you, you shit!" 
I don't normally growl dogs because they scare me.
But this one annoyed me more. (crabby time)
It did quieten a little I'm sure, maybe, okay maybe not. Lol

So that was my walk today in the sun and beautiful wind.
A lot of variety jammed into roughly two hours.

I am most thankful.
A beautiful day.


A Beautiful Day - U2


Wednesday, September 5, 2012

My Spring Morning

This morning I was in a great place.
 I was feeling close to those I love and feeling a part of something beautiful. 
The sun was also shining which is always a bonus!

Anyhow I needed to get a few things from the supermarket.
But I was dying to to get out in the wind and sunshine.
 I sometimes crave it. 

As I am getting ready to go the temp cold.
So I decided my wind-breaking vest a good idea.
A text comes through on my (receiver only) cell phone.
I check it's United Video with $2 movie or game hire.
 I shrugged it off, then thought yeah I might get one why not.
I also really need a walk, awesome!

So with minimal direction in my life I headed out with phone in pocket.
 As you had to show them the text.
I normally don't take my phone.
I just don't have credit on it. But today I was 'carrying'
I also took my camera and did a couple of vids.
 (though haven't loaded them yet)

So nearly to Fraser Cove where United Video is my phone rings.
I answered, it was the RTLB 
(a person working in liason with the school for my son)
He's like. "Where are you?"
(that in itself proves I have no life)
I said "I am out walking."

*I bumped into mum at the supermarket last week, she's like.
We had been trying to get hold of you, ringing your landline and even online.
I was like, we were walking back from Fraser Cove.*
(so you see everyone expects me to be here as I have no life)

Anyway back to the future's recent past.
RTLB's like "We have a real huge change in the program."
I'm like "really what?"
He says "The teacher aide (T.A) is off to Durban tomorrow on the Rainbow Warrior"
I replied "What! Wow! Shit!"

He said "So I am at your place with the new guy for you to meet"
I say "Oh Okay well I can make my way back now"
He says "where are you stay there we will come and meet you"
and they did we had an impromptu meeting on the side of the road.

So the transition that was going to take place over a few weeks, took place today.
The hours that were going to go from 3 to 6 will now stay at roughly 3.
Cullen will miss his old T.A but things move on.
(We will track him through Green Peace that will be cool!)

But The Universe finally said 'enough piss arsing about lets do this!'

So they went off to Boys College I carried onto Fraser Cove.
 Then my phone rang again.
Another agency about respite days.
So I am trying to hear her getting closer to the main road I am find it harder to hear.
 So I turned around and headed for home.
She said I had to wait til last minute before I could get a review & assessment.
(for more days per year) Which I sort of knew anyway but I needed confirmation.
So after that phone call I put it in my pocket and the sky opened!

It was amusing to me.
I walked home thinking of the circumstances and coincidences 
that had put me where I was striding in the cold spring rain.

I had so much other stuff going on in my mind
before my reality breached the barriers.
Now my reality was once again priority.
Also looking pretty good which is always great!

So walking home getting totally soaked rain dripping from my eyelids.
The reality of skewed vision, then I saw this woman.
 Riding toward me on a bicycle I swear she had not a drop of rain on her.
She also looked like she was out of a movie.
We shared a knowing (yeah it kinda sucks being caught in the rain but feels great to) smile.
Or maybe she just thought I looked like what I was, a drowned idiot.

Anyway I got to a bus stop and a boy whom I used to work with was there with his mum.
So I stopped in my pathetic state to chat for a bit and noticed them both dryz-a-bone.
They were headed to the supermarket but were waiting it out.
It was cool to see them though I hadn't much to say.
It did however make me miss my job.

Anyway I got to the supermarket (New World) and grabbed a few things. 
 I am sure I forgot something but never mind.
I got home and showered really only because I needed to warm up.

I always marvel at the way things seem to work out.
Taking my phone because I wanted to rent a cheap movie.
Then having all these things get sorted.

Cullen returned home with both aides and seemed very comfortable with the new one.

So it was a morning of extreme movement and it was good!

Life Goes On.








Tuesday, July 10, 2012

Quality Time


(in a doodle)



Yes in a doodle.
This is what my son and I did this evening to just spend some time together.
I had the most colourful four coloured pen, bright blue, deep pink, bright green and purple.
Cullen had a black pen.

We started doing these many years ago when we needed to connect
and relax, as we both find it very relaxing to draw.

In this doodle you should be able to tell Cullen's pictures from mine.
Not because my doodling is far superior to Cullen's (though naturally they are)
but because of the subject/object of the doodle.

He drew a fat man hanging from a noose I turned it into a flower,
he then turned my flower into a spider!
So I drew a love heart which he turned into a...
*shakes head*
He turned my pretty pink love heart, into a farting butt!
How rude!
He then drew various other vulgar things,
 which I transformed into flowers and beautiful butterflies!
Then I went back to the farting butt that was my heart,
and I drew a thunder cloud with lightning bolt that hit the fart, yeah!
Then you know what he did!?
He drew a huge butt over my cloud turning that into a fart!
Unbelievable!
I then took his butt and turn it into a skate and bike bowl yeah!
I even added brightly coloured flags, I rock!

But we had fun doodling bugs and for Cullen poop and flies.
He drew a fly head completing one eye.
I turned it into a pray mantis he informed me of my fly eye,
 not working for the mantis and drew a mantid eye.
So my mantis was half blind with a deformed mouth.

One of my morphed poop butterflies is pooping flowers.
These happened to hit the fan I drew previously to blow away the stench
Cullen had drawn.
I didn't even know he knew that expression 
and though he didn't say he giggled! Lol

It was I who wrote the WTF in pretty large pink letters.
Srraight away Cullen's like "oooh! Mum!"
I said it was 'Welcome To Facebook'
which obviously has no value in this doodle and he giggled
 "no its haha" he didn't say, credit to him.

Oh and I also named his biggest poop Cullen which he turned into
Cullen's Mum!

So this was my quality time with my 14 year old son.
Maybe not the 'normal' thing to do.
But we were close we laughed and talked and had some fun.

10 July 2012



Monday, July 9, 2012

Who I've Read




Luke Romyn - Blacklisted
Power Toys! Power Trips!
An awesome adrenalin packed adventure.
The characters are real, gritty and messed up!
You'll feel like part of the journey and you will be wishing you could take the wheel!
You'll gasp and Lol in the same sentence.
A relevant story that any one on earth can relate to
and may even question the world they know.
Get Blacklisted run the gauntlet!
02-03-12






Claude Bouchard - The Consultant #2

Wow! Wow! Wow!
Yes again!
Seriously from the start!
Read hot on the heels of Vigilante, amazing impact!
Claude had me so out of my thinking square with these two amazing books!
I LOVE when that happens!
I'm a Big Big Fan!
Go get Vigilante read it be wowed!
Then get this one The Consultant and get that wowed checked!
23-02-12






Claude Bouchard - Vigilante #1

Wow! Wow! Wow!
I thought I had this one sussed from the beginning
I didn't then I thought I had again, I didn't then again and again I didn't!
Claude had me shuffling and re-shuffling the characters right to the end.
Brilliant!
Great characters, great plot, fantastic twists & turns.
LOVED Vigilante!
16-02-12






Luke Romyn - The Dark Path
This is a surreal story.
Not for the faint of heart!
With ancient roots and enemies
Vain is fighting for the life of another, the lives of many.
Straying from the path of death dealer.
The twists and turns the sacrifice the pain absolutely wonderful!
Had me in tears at one point where humanity shone through the darkness.
Fantastic!
(I have stopped crying now)
14-02-12





Claude Bouchard - Discreet Activities
I love the strong characters, the relationships
the fast pace and the surprises, some small,
but one I didn't see coming upset me so much 
I had to go and do chores to calm down.
Great story!
The characters were so easy to warm to you wont be disappointed.

Feb 2012




Susan Howatch - The Heartbreaker
I love her charismatic healers
her no holds barred approach to tabu subjects,
feelings, self denial and self sabotage.
This book is written in the same brave manner.
Feb 2012

Wednesday, July 4, 2012

Another My Day



Well it is the 3rd of July here now.
 It is nearly the 4th which in New Zealand doesn't mean a lot.
 But it is nice to see my USA friends celebrate what for them is the most important day in history.

Independence Day 


- wiki - Lady Liberty stands amidst Red Blue & White Fireworks
picture from crazywebsite.com 

But yesterday the 2nd of July was my birthday.
However living a lot of my life in cybertime, my birthday lasts a lot longer.

I don't do a lot for my birthdays haven't done for years now.
But yesterday and today as it was my birthday in parts of USA til my 4pm.
I had a wonderful birthday felt a lot of love from a lot of people!
The MushroomFM presenters were amazing!
Some played my requests and some played special birthday music for me.
It was lovely, one presenter @jimbodownunder even sang Happy Birthday to me.
The last of 'my' birthday shows. Lol 
Was Rock Under the Big Top with the RingMaster @inthecenterring
He played a track I have loved since the TV Series ROSWELL - wiki -

Here With Me - Dido



This song is so beautiful to me and the meaning it has for me is real deep.
I found out recently that my meaning and the actual meaning weren't the same.
But I still loved the song and appreciated hearing it again.
Thank you RingMaster!

I spent the day (yesterday) in contemplation and reflection,
 it is a ritual now for me to do this on my birthday.
Thinking of where I've been, how far I've come, about the great and good in my life.

I appreciate myself and those who are dear to me.
I decide what I want to do with my life,
 whether I need tweak things or maybe change direction.

Some of the important aspects in my life.

LOVE - HAPPINESS - FRIENDSHIP - FAMILY
JOY - HEALTH - HARMONY

Some recent photo's I have snapped


A full bloom of a light bright pink Camellia flower,
 nestled in the dark shiny green leaves of her host.


A red Japanese maple leaf lay upon my hand perfect in it's natural imperfection.


A rocky shore beyond which is a rugged gray sea
 under blue sky
the odd cumulus on farthest horizon.

SIMPLICITY
FREEDOM
LIFE
LOVE

I am thankful for being.

My Birthday Poem - I Am Thankful



Monday, June 18, 2012

To Be Or Not


Today I made to get out before a rain, that may now not come...
But in the process I knocked a drinking glass off the bench which shattered quite well...
So I cleaned that up and the kitchen floor got a vacuum, bonus!

Back in the day a broken glass was simply that a broken glass, pain in the arse!
But these days after many a sordid year and intensive soul searching a broken glass it is just not...

But because I now think this way, I expect stuff to happen...
When maybe it is simply stuff that hasn't happened or maybe, just maybe, the glass just fell off the bench...

This little incident made me think, 'Am I being slowed down for some reason?
So when I go out I am naturally more aware of what is in my space;

The group of three aged ones, the man shuffling behind the ladies with a plastic in hand and a lap dog on a lead...
The fact that when I went to cross the road the way was clear by sides...
The two beautiful black labs with white star patches on their chests and an owner that let one say hello but not stop for cuddles...
The deep metallic blue Mustang that roared by and then the starling that flew over head to the church copse...
The couple who passed me engrossed in each other and clearly special needs.
The many maori who were out and about all returned a greeting of morning, not kia ora or ata marie...
I noticed the people I could and couldn't say morning to, also who I could keep eye contact with and couldn't, even who got a smile and didn't.
I came up with no real answers as to how I discriminated, but felt a little fear and disappointment in myself..
Through the shopping area I walked, a few people around, a woman in jacket and a just above knee double skirt with a severe split at the back, no stockings, she looked fashionable cold.
The kids at the village school out playing screaming laughing and having fun, an adult in high vis in the mix, made me pang for my job my kids, but also made me feel happy in remembrance.
Lots of traffic, a little of chatter people at cafes, exiting shops, bus stops and atm machines...
A toddler made myself and another's heart jump as he reached under the front of a his mum's parked car to pick up the soft toy he had dropped, she calmly called him, she hadn't seen what had alarmed us.
The air crisp, chilling, thrilling and revitalising...
At the library I put my books in the returns box before entering and this beaut of an Alsatian lay on the path in the corner I spoke to him but didn't approach, even though he didn't seem to bothered by me...
Walking into the library engulf by a comfortable warmth it felt so good...
I heard mothers talking to children, setting up lunch dates with acquaintances I found books for Cullen that I knew I would have to force him to read...
I maneuvered around people lurking waiting for others issued my books...
I left the library then at that moment decided to go to this Indian Shop to purchase my milk and a couple of potatoes, I bought milk and a kumara instead...
The young guy remembered and it was a nice exchange, I do wonder if they feel betrayed when you stop going there for months, just because they are out of the way...
I left there and retraced my steps stopping at the Second Hand Shop with the 20c box of books...
I bought; The Music Of Chance by Paul Auster, 'contemporary fiction at its most thrilling' is one comment.
Earth Search - James Follett, the BBC Serial MushroomFM Escape is playing at the moment...
The Empire Strikes Back - Donald F. Glut, based on a story by George Lucas...
Overshoot - Mona Clee, A after end of days novel based in 2032 world...
Many people were in the shop so wait was a little while but not bad as it was nice and warm a fellow
book bargainer mentioned such to me as she came to wait beside me.
The people waiting were of mixed creeds races and likely religion an eclectic bunch it was nice...
On my walk home passed someone mowing a lawn someone running with drinking tube in mouth, saw two old school cars in a row, the smell of licorice all sorts filled the air making me crave such before I walked into a thick wall of smoke from someone burning rubbish in their yard.
I made it home before Cullen did turned heater on and sat down to catch up online...
I missed someone special online, I managed to get a request list off and do this post...
If I was slowed down for a reason I am unsure as to what this might be...

It may just be that the glass fell off the bench...

Related Story:

Synchronicity and the Hedgehog





Friday, May 18, 2012

Kopurererua Valley Tauranga

The largest wetland restoration project in the southern hemisphere.


I photographed and filmed this piece today.
I may mispronounce some Maori words and I have my cynicism inserted within.

Maori words I use; 
Wahine = Woman 
Tane = Man
Kete = Flax Bag 
Tewhatewha = Long handled axe like weapon.

Music by
Loveshadow - U TERU S . Birth of Souls

I hope you enjoy.




Camelia




Wednesday, May 2, 2012

My Weekend Aboard The Good Ship Fungus

What an amazing weekend!!!
The best virtual trip I have ever taken!
I went on a world cruise with some of the finest people,
 in the twitterverse, even the universe!


The MushroomFm crew were just fantastic!
They pampered and primped kept us fed and watered!
While entertaining us with wonderful music and some amazing drama!
I have never been on a cruise before.
 I think I'll be hard put to find one more amazing than,
 the virtual cruise upon The Good Ship Fungus.





52 hours of the best energy this world have ever seen!
Meeting many presenters and frolicking with them and other passengers,
from across the globe. A lot of flirting, dancing, drinking eating and games.

Meet the crew and passengers in real time

We had all we could wish for'
with little imagination the crew took you to the Captains cabin, on deck, the bar, the bar, the bar, the casino, the gym
even up high in the crows nest and down to the belly in the engine room, the brig, or in my case boiler room!!!

Two people won a prize each of $222 USD each!
While many many people won MushroomFM tote bags!
 I know I did and I cant wait to see it!
 I will treasure it forever!
For it is unique and holds many wonderful virtual memories.




So come take the journey through,
 the podcasts and enjoy the excitement, we certainly did!

Happy Second Birthday Mushroom Fm


Friday 27-04-12 (est) 



The Captain's Cabin                                                                                                        @JonathanMosen
All Aboard with Dave and Emma                                                                                     @DaveandEmma
The Booze Cruise                                                                                             @janbart53 & @glenbuck1
The Watery Oasis
The Cozy Canine Retreat                                                                                             @jdronmushroomfm
Treasure Hunt                                                                                                                             @smileyliz

Saturday 28-04-12

Next Stop Down Under!                                                                                                         @BigBeat50
The Rubber Room                                                                                                                   @kiwisnake
In The Gym                                                                                                                   @jimbodownunder
80's Disco on the deck with a wee bit of Lovin'                                                                        @irish_2009
Sentimental Sailing                                                                                                                @AlexBanwell
On-Deck Dance Party                                                                                                            @charmorby
Treat Yourself                                                                                                                   @candygirlmusic
Ashore in the Great State                                                                                                               @arm4r
Hunt for the Melting Pot                                                                                                   @meltingpotshow
The Steamie                                                                                                                           @gordonluke
Laughter, the Cure for Sea Sickness                                                                                     @btmushroom
The Stowaway Fringe                                                                                          @Skhyering & @techring
The Mid-Cruise Social Gathering                                                            @traceyclasper & @TerryClasper
The Buffet Table                                                                                                                    @baxaphobia
Beach Boys Beach Party                                                                                                        @bboyer202
Rebel Fungus                                                                                                                         @roosterloop

Sunday 29-04-12

The LifeGuard                                                                                                                           @djtyler03
The Minxy Roulette Wheel                                                                                                        @JuliaMinx
Mushrooms A-midships                                                                                                     @shonanddamo
The Mastery                                                                                                                      @FunGuyDanny
The Flashback Gold Serious Workout                                                                                @kevin_russell1
Rock Under the Brig                                                                                                         @inthecenterring
Game Play                                                                                                                        @childsplayradio
The Blue Ship Show                                                                                                             @bluesheep71
Welcome To The Cabaret                                                                                                   @rachaelwarke
The Onboard Comotion                                                                         @traceyclasper & @TerryClasper
The Captains Ball                                                                                                            @JonathanMosen


Big Loves and Thank You All!

Saturday, April 14, 2012

synchronicity and the hedgehog



WARNING
*contains graphic - gross content*

A beautiful Saturday dawned in Tauranga. 
I woke at a quarter past eight despite having only gone to sleep a few hours previous. 
After a most successful first Skype session with a very awesome person.

I cuddled kittens and child made sure the were all watered,
then I jumped in the shower nothing like a shower for a cob webby head.

After my shower I turned on the computer and started making breakfast.
Fried Ham and Egg with tomato on toast.
Made one for myself and the boy, forgetting that he is now off eggs as he is off fish.

I signed into twitter and started reading, tweeting and eating.
I also tuned into MushroomFM's radio programme Down at the Old Bull and Bush.
Presented by the wonderful @janbart53 and @glenbuck1

Tweeting with these awesome folk throughout their show 
and also with the amazing @davetaylor2112 and the stunning @ephphy
mostly about alcohol, oh and the Land of Cake! (where I wanted to live)
Which came up in the pub quiz, 
that I could but (virtually) stare blankly at, while I watched pebbles drop
 into the great abyss that was my mind.

Turns out that The Land of Cake is Scotland! 
Wow! Wow! So I'm okay. 
I think I'll stay here in my lil' piece of NZ paradise and sneak the odd cake.

So a great morning was spent connecting with great people, sharing a laugh and more.
Dave suggested I get out in my zombified state,
as it may just help clear the cob webs. (my words not his)

I knew he was right and I knew that I would,
 because I just didnt feel like sleeping at 12pm on a most gorgeous summery autumn day!
So after a glass or two of pure tap water (I know living dangerously) not!

I put on my shoes and fluffed around here and there.
Didn't really know where we were going to walk.
At the end of the drive I asked Cullen aka the child aka the boy.
Take me where you and Tom go and show me this 'scary' wasp nest.

So off we went in the opposite direction to our norm of going to the boardwalk,
aka one of the biggest Wetlands project in the southern hemisphere, 
aka the reserve.

So went down our street toward the tennis club where only a few people were playing.
Down the side of it and down the hill behind it.
It is just this huge green space with a small piece
near the top planted in native shrubs.
He showed me the wasp nest now laying abandoned on the ground.
It was approx the size of my hand stretched out.

After that we continued down the hill then walked back up 
our neighbouring street towards the little access way that would take us 
through to this little park on our street.

Now Cullen didn't want to go to the boardwalk he just didn't feel like it
and I didn't feel like just going to the shop and then home.
We hadn't even walked ten minutes and I needed more!
More exercise more fresh air more spaces to extend the eyes.

So we walked past the access way and continued down the street 
and ended up at the reserve. 
Cullen was happy trying to catch Monarch butterflies, 
I carried on down the grass driveway size lane lined either side by flax and shrubs, 
some of which towered more than a head above me.
Occasionally stopping and breathing to take it all in.

I chose a path in the fork and nearly stood on a decapitated eel!
It was a horrid site and not to big either approx 30cms in length.
I squealed at the fly attracting sight and instinctively covered my nose and mouth.
Although I could not smell anything at all.
Cullen passed the horror a minute or so later I heard his reaction behind me.

 I stood waiting upon a large lid for large pipe works, surveying the site.
It was at least a half meter high. Then I said because it's obligatory!
"I'm the King of the Castle and you're a dirty rascal"
The boy not impressed grunted and jumped up. I pretended to push him
 and catch him, he looked at me like 'what are you doing' so serious I laughed.

Then we were off down another path amongst shrubs and following
 Yellow Hammers (sparrow like birds that are yellow)
We came to another fork a gravel one we took a few steps west
 then we kept going north, along the 'actual' man made wooden boardwalk.

I had intended to maybe walk up a huge hill and back along the main road
calling into the supermarket on the way home.

I stopped for a time watching the traffic on the highway crawl along
 at a snail's pace which is unusual but I couldnt figure what was going on. 

I noticed people coming along the boardwalk in the distance.
 Cullen had raced off back into shrubbery.

I watched a Grey Heron fly south then turn fly north then turn again.
I lost sight of the Heron as I turned hearing Cullen pound up talking fast.

"I caught a snoring cicada, only the second one I have ever caught"
He opened his hand and this amazing bright yet deep reed green
cicada sat singing his protest it was a gorgeous little thing, approx 2cm in length.
It flew off.

We continued north saying Hi!
 To two couples with babies in strollers going south.
We nearly made it to the end of the boardwalk and Cullen expressed his
total dislike for walking up the hill along the road side with the traffic.

So we turned around and started heading back the way we had come
which is a much better choice for walking.
A man and his two children biked past without greeting.

Then a little ahead of us they stopped at the edge of the gravel,
as we got closer we saw that they were watching this hedgehog.
We came to stand next to them and then slowly moved onto gravel.

The man said "Unusual to see them in the daytime isn't it"
The response always given when hedgehogs are out in daylight.
But I stopped and agreed with him.
Then they all moved forward walking their bikes.

All five of us stood scrutinizing this hedgehog, 
which stopped suddenly and seemed to shake and shudder,
 then the man mentioned what I had that instant noticed.

"It's spikes are they moving?"
Horror movie scenes flicked through my head.
I had a pretty good idea what it was that was moving on this creature.
His boy went closer and confirmed this.

"It's maggots!"
We were sort of moving slowly still staring in slow mo horror.
I without meaning to, blurted out.
"God I wish I was more of a farmer" The man said "Why what would you do?" 
I shook my head hand again coming to my mouth.

"You'd put it out of it's misery?" He answered for me.
I said again without thinking. "Yeah well it's getting eaten alive!"
I felt my skin crawl at the thought.
We had stopped moving at this stage still watching the poor creature
slowly walking and occasionally twitching and stopping.
He said "Maybe I should do it, get a stick and hit it over the head?"
He didn't sound so sure. I in a feeble voice said
"You have your babies with you"

He then went on to talk about how cruel nature can be and some
of the classic African fight of the fittest programmes he had seen recently.

We were all still watching this poor hedgehog.
"Yeah I better do this aye the poor creature is suffering. I cant let it suffer.
 I'll hit it on the head with a stick"
I think this was more to himself than I, but I said.
"Yes it would be the best thing. 
Though I don't if know you can trust any stick around here"
I looked around at the flax stems the dead stumps and branches hopelessly.

He, his daughter and son put their bikes down and he said.
"Don't judge me." I replied "Oh know! Not at all he must be in agony!"
So in the maybe five mins we had seen this creature.
His fate had been decided.

At this stage the hedgehog had walked about 4 metres down the gravel track.
The man walked down to meet the creature his children followed.
I looked to Cullen to see if he wanted to see this and he said yes with a little
uncertainty which I'm sure we all felt.
In that time the man had found the perfect stick!
A piece of 2x4 long enough to be effective short enough to not be awkward.

He asked his kids to move away saying they might not want to see it.
I tried to get them to turn away and they did for the first hit.
But curiosity got the better of us all.
The second hit we all watched and it looked like he was successful 
as the hedgehog lifelessly flew into the flax.

We all breathed and felt some relief  I think.
I was still horrified at the thought of it being a living meal.
"It is gone, he is gone for sure" said the man "I think I did the right thing."
I affirmed "Oh you did definitely, it would've been in so much pain?"

"Well" he said to his kids 
"How is that for an afternoon? We helped stop suffering."
I babbled 
"Yes we got to see the circle of life, the hedgehog doesn't suffer
 and the bugs still live" 
Silly statement I guess but it was an odd moment.

He then said. "Lucky we came down here we weren't going to today,
isn't it funny how things work out."
I nodded saying "Thank goodness you did come down this way
 I don't think I could've done that"

We went off again on how crazy life was, I mentioned the decapitated eel we'd seen and
he said how crazy people were to do such.
I did my same old spiel.
"I think everybody does do the best they know how, 
it's not always right but it is the best they know."
The man agreed saying. "Yes it comes down to the parents"
I said "Yes and how they were raised"

He asked if we were from around there I told him our street.
Then he pointed out his home to the north looking out over this beautiful valley.
I had a twinge of jealousy as I exclaimed. "What a beautiful view!"

He gave me his business card and told me
he was a male hairdresser and worked from home.  
(I cursed myself for never carrying my cards around. 
But justified that with that thought with, 
he wouldn't want to buy my jewellery anyway)

He then said he didn't make a lot being a hair dresser.
But enough to own his home (mortgage) and support himself and his kids.
My jealousy dissipated. 
But I still wondered about the cards.

We parted with it was nice meeting you under these not so nice circumstances.

Cullen and I walked off, pondering the events that lead us
to be at this place at this time.
The synchronicity and unseen forces making us meet at that point to help save
a little being from the most hideous of deaths.

***

1. My early morning bedtime. (making me want a decent walk)
2. My Saturday ritual of mushroom listening. (keeping me home)
3. Daves encouraging me to go out (reaffirming my need to get out)
 4. The getting out and then deciding which way to go. (getting out)
5. The detours and the stops we made. (placing us at right time)
6. The turning around and changing our path. (as above)
7. My blurting out "God I wish I was more of a farmer!" (making the man stop)
 8. The man and his children choosing that path at that time.
 (being there to see hedgehog and take action)

***

If these things hadn't taken place would the hedgehog still be suffering?

Would the hedgehog had been hurt in the first place?

***

I'm not sure what to take from this encounter 
other than that we can take a life in vain and let it rot in the sun (eel)
or we can respect the living and reduce the pain. (hedgehog)

***