We're in for a cold, wet weekend with a good bit of mist and rain. Perfect weather for thinking, for meditating, for stillness. May you be blessed with calm this weekend.
Shabbat Shalom
We're in for a cold, wet weekend with a good bit of mist and rain. Perfect weather for thinking, for meditating, for stillness. May you be blessed with calm this weekend.
(Not)To-do list
This month I will not be:
* eating out, fancy or take-away
* buying power tools
* buying wood
* spending hundreds on groceries each week
* treating myself to dark chocolate truffles
* going on road trips
* budgeting a single cent for entertainment
Why? Because my car is now fixed. I have brakes and all sorts of working parts. And it's cost mea third two thirds of my salary...
I will, however, be doing an awful lot of baking and selling! :)
**
Being a holiday, and a stunningly beautiful day at that too, I shunned a lift to go get the car. I walked instead. I reckoned it would take me about an hour to do the 6-8km (not sure exact distance) - and it did. To the minute. Yet another one of those little things I've proved to myself I can do. And a whole lot of exercise to boot.
* eating out, fancy or take-away
* buying power tools
* buying wood
* spending hundreds on groceries each week
* treating myself to dark chocolate truffles
* going on road trips
* budgeting a single cent for entertainment
Why? Because my car is now fixed. I have brakes and all sorts of working parts. And it's cost me
I will, however, be doing an awful lot of baking and selling! :)
**
Being a holiday, and a stunningly beautiful day at that too, I shunned a lift to go get the car. I walked instead. I reckoned it would take me about an hour to do the 6-8km (not sure exact distance) - and it did. To the minute. Yet another one of those little things I've proved to myself I can do. And a whole lot of exercise to boot.
The Five-Day Weekend
We're lucky this week. We have had a mere 3 days of work, and then the weekend strikes again.
It's Freedom Day tomorrow, and with Friday already a short day here, the offices will be closed. Monday is another holiday - and I'm taking this afternoon off, just to top it all.
But it won't be all sloth and slumber - though a good deal of that may occur.
This afternoon I'm sorting out the last of the garage, hauling my power tools up from the house, taking some wood odds & ends there too - and setting up shop. Not so it can gather dust, but so that this weekend I can start to get my hands dirty and see what is createable.
I can't wait. It's going to be immense fun. And, with payday having recently struck (car in for attention, so not a cent out of the bank yet), I can afford to get the circular saw I need, and the bits of wood that will go into my first few projects. Unfortunately, the lady who was going to supply both equipment and wood has been asked to hold off for a while until the kids can sort out what they want - but that's OK. I have enough to keep me busy in the meantime.
The one thing I DON'T have and will need to make/buy is a work table. I could steal the nice big one I bought to store my son's toys - but would have to give him something else to store them in first, which I don't have. I may do some trawling through junk heaps to find one - we'll see.
But this is step one. New space, place to play, and a whole very long weekend to do it in. Awesome.
(photo: one of the blackwood stumps currently drying out in the garage)
It's Freedom Day tomorrow, and with Friday already a short day here, the offices will be closed. Monday is another holiday - and I'm taking this afternoon off, just to top it all.
But it won't be all sloth and slumber - though a good deal of that may occur.
This afternoon I'm sorting out the last of the garage, hauling my power tools up from the house, taking some wood odds & ends there too - and setting up shop. Not so it can gather dust, but so that this weekend I can start to get my hands dirty and see what is createable.I can't wait. It's going to be immense fun. And, with payday having recently struck (car in for attention, so not a cent out of the bank yet), I can afford to get the circular saw I need, and the bits of wood that will go into my first few projects. Unfortunately, the lady who was going to supply both equipment and wood has been asked to hold off for a while until the kids can sort out what they want - but that's OK. I have enough to keep me busy in the meantime.
The one thing I DON'T have and will need to make/buy is a work table. I could steal the nice big one I bought to store my son's toys - but would have to give him something else to store them in first, which I don't have. I may do some trawling through junk heaps to find one - we'll see.
But this is step one. New space, place to play, and a whole very long weekend to do it in. Awesome.
(photo: one of the blackwood stumps currently drying out in the garage)
Photoblog: Studies in Black & White
It was a bit of a black & white day yesterday - so I took full advantage of it! :)
Photoblog
Took a long walk late yesterday afternoon to clear my head, and of course the camera went too. This is one of the shots I took - one of many! There's nothing like late-afternoon light...
Temptation
I was faced with a Big Temptation this morning. To do something I know is potentially utterly and dreadfully wrong, but which would give a few moments pleasure that might almost make it worth it. I resisted - knowing the outcome and potential fallout would send ripples far beyond my control and be much worse than any pleasure attained.
I think I'm growing up. Or maturing. Or just learning that I can't go around doing what I please without worrying about consequence.
Years ago I had a "stuff life" attutide, doing whatever I wanted, whenever I wanted. Not particularly worried about consequences in my own life, or being caught out, or how it might affect others. I shunned responsibility for my actions, living in the moment.
Until I became a mom. And took stock of where I was headed, what I was doing. Realized that I could no longer coast through life, and that this time there was no dumping responsibility and fleeing.
It brought me up short and give me a slap upside the head to realize that my smallest action or attitude would have lasting repercussions. I cleaned up my act, got myself together, and went forth! Well, generally speaking - every now and then I still fail. As we all do.
This morning though I'm quite proud of myself for leaving well alone. I've come a long way in the past few years. I actually feel strong inside now!
I think I'm growing up. Or maturing. Or just learning that I can't go around doing what I please without worrying about consequence.
Years ago I had a "stuff life" attutide, doing whatever I wanted, whenever I wanted. Not particularly worried about consequences in my own life, or being caught out, or how it might affect others. I shunned responsibility for my actions, living in the moment.
Until I became a mom. And took stock of where I was headed, what I was doing. Realized that I could no longer coast through life, and that this time there was no dumping responsibility and fleeing.
It brought me up short and give me a slap upside the head to realize that my smallest action or attitude would have lasting repercussions. I cleaned up my act, got myself together, and went forth! Well, generally speaking - every now and then I still fail. As we all do.
This morning though I'm quite proud of myself for leaving well alone. I've come a long way in the past few years. I actually feel strong inside now!
Happy Earth Day!
Which means, of course, the day that you check all your electrical goods are properly grounded... :)
Direction? Check!
I mentioned part of this in the comments of the post below, but it deserves a little more space...
I can't believe how things are coming together this week! Literally, one thing after another is happening that's got me in a constant state of "wow!".
This morning a gentleman stopped by just before work to relieve me of some more garage stuff. I know he has a factory in the Strand, and happened to ask what he produces, as he was about to get into the car.
Well, he's in the organic baby-food business! They're launching officially soon, but already can't keep up with mere local orders. I told him I'm trying to find suppliers for my own organic range, and he gave me exactly the info I was looking for - the sole provider of organic grains and grain products in the country. Friggin' amazing...! I mentioned that I'm hoping to take my business online, and he wants to advertise/sell his products through that if I'm willing - which is a very, very good thing. You see, he's already well known. Sticking his products on my site will not only sell his stuff, but give exposure to mine too! Woah... Big things.
And then one of my colleagues stopped by, and I mentioned my woodworking stuff. Well, he's got everything under the sun, all the knowledge and experience - but lacks the imagination to create products. If someone gives him a plan and says "go", he can make it. Now, I have the imagination, but lack the knowledge/experience.... Perfect match! He loves wood as much as I do, and is willing to form a partnership to get my wood toys & products off the ground. Amazing!
Wood and food were the two directions I'd wanted to go to get myself sustainable by the end of the year. They're the two areas I love enough to make a lifestyle (not career) out of. A sis-in-law is keeping me in food orders (specifically mix-and-bake brownies), and my entrepreneurial brother wants to sell the wood toys in his shop. Getting the website up and functioning is the next big step - but this Could Actually Work...!!!
I'm blown away by everything that's happened this week. Someone Upstairs is sending me some very clear messages, giving me direction with honking big flashing road signs, and providing enough encouragement that I'll finally take the plunge and get out of my rut.
Amazing.
::update::
Forgot to mention - web design/maintenance on the side was another option being considered. Since Tuesday have had 3 requests for help with websites... another sign?
Trouble is, I don't feel I'm nearly good enough to charge for my web services. It's one of the areas where I feel frustratingly inadequate, but which I'd love to learn more about.
I can't believe how things are coming together this week! Literally, one thing after another is happening that's got me in a constant state of "wow!".
This morning a gentleman stopped by just before work to relieve me of some more garage stuff. I know he has a factory in the Strand, and happened to ask what he produces, as he was about to get into the car.
Well, he's in the organic baby-food business! They're launching officially soon, but already can't keep up with mere local orders. I told him I'm trying to find suppliers for my own organic range, and he gave me exactly the info I was looking for - the sole provider of organic grains and grain products in the country. Friggin' amazing...! I mentioned that I'm hoping to take my business online, and he wants to advertise/sell his products through that if I'm willing - which is a very, very good thing. You see, he's already well known. Sticking his products on my site will not only sell his stuff, but give exposure to mine too! Woah... Big things.
And then one of my colleagues stopped by, and I mentioned my woodworking stuff. Well, he's got everything under the sun, all the knowledge and experience - but lacks the imagination to create products. If someone gives him a plan and says "go", he can make it. Now, I have the imagination, but lack the knowledge/experience.... Perfect match! He loves wood as much as I do, and is willing to form a partnership to get my wood toys & products off the ground. Amazing!
Wood and food were the two directions I'd wanted to go to get myself sustainable by the end of the year. They're the two areas I love enough to make a lifestyle (not career) out of. A sis-in-law is keeping me in food orders (specifically mix-and-bake brownies), and my entrepreneurial brother wants to sell the wood toys in his shop. Getting the website up and functioning is the next big step - but this Could Actually Work...!!!
I'm blown away by everything that's happened this week. Someone Upstairs is sending me some very clear messages, giving me direction with honking big flashing road signs, and providing enough encouragement that I'll finally take the plunge and get out of my rut.
Amazing.
::update::
Forgot to mention - web design/maintenance on the side was another option being considered. Since Tuesday have had 3 requests for help with websites... another sign?
Trouble is, I don't feel I'm nearly good enough to charge for my web services. It's one of the areas where I feel frustratingly inadequate, but which I'd love to learn more about.
The Path Laid Out
Have you ever tried to chicken out of a challenging path - and then found the world (or God!) is conspiring against you doing that? Forcing you to choose the harder, but likely more rewarding path?I'm experiencing precisely that right now! And although I don't believe our lives are set out in stone for eternity, I do think we are guided along a journey that is just what we need - whether we think so or not at the time. Truth is, we have no idea of the bigger picture. And even a tough time may be preparing us for experiences further along the path.
It would be really easy for me to stay in my little rut, but I've dreamt big dreams for too many years. While I was on leave last week I started thinking seriously about the steps needed to get going, to put my feet onto an irreversible path toward where I dream I could be. And dream I do - every day.
But ruts are comfortable, until Divine Intervention tells you otherwise. And I know that by the end of this year I have to be completely out of my rut and living a dream.
Why? Well, because that Divine Intervention is simply preventing me from getting too comfortable. Every time I try to stay in my rut, something happens to push me out of it.
It's not always big things either - a comment here, a change in policy coming up there, a request turned down quickly and irrevocably. Each pushing me toward the future, making me put in the effort to launch out into the unknown.
Yesterday it was housing issues. I've been planning to leave at the end of the year for either new employment or my own self-sufficient business (both of which will require a huge effort between now and then to implement). Then I got all lazy, and applied for a bigger house where I am now, so I could stick around next year and not have to work hard at reaching new horizons. Turned down, flat out - and with a few extra comments that implied I'd better not ask again. Now, I've promised myself a while back that I'd get into a bigger place for my son's sake - and mine. If I stay here, that's simply not an option. There's nothing available under the current contract, and to move off the property will require more cash than I receive each month here just to cover rent. So to fulfil the promise I made to myself and my son will require something new - new job or me making enough from my self-sufficient business to sustain us elsewhere.
There's the schooling thing too. My son's going to a high school on campus here next year (has decided against the art school for various reasons). If I stay, I get a 30% payback on his fees. But the fees are basically half my current salary each month! We're already struggling to cover food costs etc - without a substantial increase or cash-in-the-bank it's going to mean living on very, very little just to ensure his education. Again, the alternatives are other employment or self-sufficiency. Pretty clear!
Job satisfaction and that pesky inner voice? Again, I could stick it out here - but I have more dissatisfaction than satisfaction. I spend more time unhappy than happy. The inner voice is shouting loud and clear that I know what I want, and what's stopping me? What's stopping me is fear of the unknown, of course - but I know the rewards I'll reap for listening to those voices in my head will be immense! Sure, this is a stable situation - I know what I'm dealing with, I know what to expect each day, month and year. I've got a regular (though meagre) salary coming in. I've got little perks like constant internet access and a mere walk to get to work. Friday afternoons off. But what then? Is it really worth living in a constant state of stress? Being on edge, jumpy, scared that I'm about to be fired/moaned at/do something wrong all the time? The inner voice says a resounding NO. The inner voice is urging me to use the God-given gifts, talents and abilities I've got for greater aims, bigger goals, beyond what I may even yet imagine.
Then there's the little things - an offer of a piece of equipment to help a dream along, a chance to sell a product to a market I hadn't thought of, an opportunity to get involved, a chance meeting with a stranger. Heck, I've even been offered a free house a year or so from now (though it's not something I'm considering, as there are conditions attached I don't feel I can meet)! Little things, subtle pushes - but I'm getting the message loud and clear.
So what does it all mean? Basically, a lot more hard work coming up over and above my day-job, but work I'll enjoy. Concrete plans in place, a timeline for goals, and less time spent doing nothing.
At the same time I realize what I've got here, and am going to make the best use of it I can. I've been given some amazing chances to do things, learn things, experience things - and connect with people. As I follow my path, I need to open my hands to grasp the future - but not so far open that I lose everything. Balance - there's the crux of the matter.
So it's onwards and upwards. Don't have too much of a choice it seems. And I even have a deadline...
::update::
Well, another reason to future-watch has arrived on my desk - a massive increase in things being taken off my salary before I see it. I was just starting to rejoice in an extra two hundred bucks each month (end of year pay rise), but now it's gone, and more. I was hoping to both save and haul my credit card out of the red this year - so far, no luck. Fortunately my food-related sideline is helping us cope each month - I know it can't go on like this forever.
However, each blow only strengthens my resolve. This is a good thing.
::update2::
This is so not worth it. I ended the day stressed out so badly that I came close to collapsing during a quick stop at the shops. I literally couldn't see straight and nearly blacked out. It hasn't been this bad for ages... The more I try to balance up the bad/unhealthy vs the good/good for me, the further the pendulum swings. Again, a resolve-strengthener - change before it kills me.
Related things that caught my eye:
Hugh on Inner Fire and Paranoia Management
Springwise - inspiration! It can be done!
ChangeThis - manifestos for a new perspective
Get Happy - Oscar-nominated short animated movie. The fire-in-the-belly thing was a light-bulb moment...
Insomniac
I never thought I'd bear that label. I've generally had a pretty easy time dropping off each night, and luxuriating in afternoon naps when they arose.
But the past few nights have been horrific! Late nights last week and most of the weekend. The wind blew and kept me half-awake all night Sunday, and when I did manage an early night on Monday I couldn't sleep. All the relaxing attempts, the warm bath, the Milo before bed, the mind-clearing, the shifting position - nothing helped. Eventually I got up and found a book to read until sufficiently tired.
But I think I know what the problem is. My mind refuses to shut down.
I lie there in bed with it going a hundred miles an hour, planning and dreaming and thinking and sorting through ideas. This weekend I've made a concerted push toward a few goals and dreams, and as things fall into place or learning happens the brain goes hyperactive. The possibilities run on loop through my head, with wishes and must-do's flitting by. So I'm flat on my back in the dark, dogwarmer at the legs, and this chuck of grey stuff won't sleep. Then I get p'd off at myself, which doesn't help.
However, I'm going to have to make a plan. I'm starting to scare the kids with my wild-eyed, over-tired looks... Not helpful at all. I need sufficient rest to function well during the day. I've got a lot of hard mental work coming up soon, and can't afford to be less than my best.
And then, this morning, if it weren't for the neighbours running late (literally) above my head, I would never have woken up nearly an hour after my alarm went off...
I hope this insomniac thing isn't more than a passing phase!
But the past few nights have been horrific! Late nights last week and most of the weekend. The wind blew and kept me half-awake all night Sunday, and when I did manage an early night on Monday I couldn't sleep. All the relaxing attempts, the warm bath, the Milo before bed, the mind-clearing, the shifting position - nothing helped. Eventually I got up and found a book to read until sufficiently tired.
But I think I know what the problem is. My mind refuses to shut down.
I lie there in bed with it going a hundred miles an hour, planning and dreaming and thinking and sorting through ideas. This weekend I've made a concerted push toward a few goals and dreams, and as things fall into place or learning happens the brain goes hyperactive. The possibilities run on loop through my head, with wishes and must-do's flitting by. So I'm flat on my back in the dark, dogwarmer at the legs, and this chuck of grey stuff won't sleep. Then I get p'd off at myself, which doesn't help.
However, I'm going to have to make a plan. I'm starting to scare the kids with my wild-eyed, over-tired looks... Not helpful at all. I need sufficient rest to function well during the day. I've got a lot of hard mental work coming up soon, and can't afford to be less than my best.
And then, this morning, if it weren't for the neighbours running late (literally) above my head, I would never have woken up nearly an hour after my alarm went off...
I hope this insomniac thing isn't more than a passing phase!
Purge and Plunge
I love FreeCycle! A month or so ago I got rid of a truckload (literally) of clothing within half an hour. Yesterday I posted a long list of stuff in my garage that I wanted to get rid of - and half of it is now gone!
Along with the offer of goods, I've posted a request for wood-working equipment, books and wood offcuts/oncuts (big and small). You see, I'm going to turn my new-found garage space into a woodworking heaven.
And today I pick up the first of that equipment. A kind lady nearby is donating her deceased husbands' tools (everything the kids haven't claimed), books and manuals, and a load of wood offcuts, in return for a few things I have to get rid of.
Although I had an initial moment of panic when I had to let my stuff go (comfort in possessions and memories, I guess), I'm glad it's gone.
Purging out the old. Plunging into the new.
And you know what? I'm really looking forward to the new!
::update::
What a small world! The lady who has some woodworking stuff for me turned out to be an old friend of the family from Zimbabwe days! And knows most of the people I do - even knew my dad before he studied here for college.
...and a really good thing? She has a LOT of wood for me, some amazing machinery and tools - and perhaps, just maybe, even a real-live lathe! In fact there's so much stuff that I'm going to have to borrow/hire the neighbour's pick-up, along with a strong helper, just to get it back here.
Of course, on my way home I managed to stop by the maintenance scrap-heap (typically). Came home with a shelf, 3 blocks of wood and an old metal chair that I'll restore to former glory!
I'm such a dumpster-diver.. :)
Along with the offer of goods, I've posted a request for wood-working equipment, books and wood offcuts/oncuts (big and small). You see, I'm going to turn my new-found garage space into a woodworking heaven.
And today I pick up the first of that equipment. A kind lady nearby is donating her deceased husbands' tools (everything the kids haven't claimed), books and manuals, and a load of wood offcuts, in return for a few things I have to get rid of.
Although I had an initial moment of panic when I had to let my stuff go (comfort in possessions and memories, I guess), I'm glad it's gone.
Purging out the old. Plunging into the new.
And you know what? I'm really looking forward to the new!
::update::
What a small world! The lady who has some woodworking stuff for me turned out to be an old friend of the family from Zimbabwe days! And knows most of the people I do - even knew my dad before he studied here for college.
...and a really good thing? She has a LOT of wood for me, some amazing machinery and tools - and perhaps, just maybe, even a real-live lathe! In fact there's so much stuff that I'm going to have to borrow/hire the neighbour's pick-up, along with a strong helper, just to get it back here.
Of course, on my way home I managed to stop by the maintenance scrap-heap (typically). Came home with a shelf, 3 blocks of wood and an old metal chair that I'll restore to former glory!
I'm such a dumpster-diver.. :)
Shabbat Shalom
We made an "Easter Shrine" full of meaningful items a few years ago... why don't you do the same this weekend? Find a way to remember what Easter is all about, through the things around you.
Foot in Mouth Syndrome
I've started to realize why I've subconciously distanced myself from everyone around me for the past few years. I have a tendancy to either say the wrong thing, or do the wrong thing, or let myself be beaten down. Constantly. (And, unfortunately, I don't have Chitty's ability to turn those situations into priceless comedy)
Lately it seems there's not a day that goes by without me having to apologize, or wish I could backtrack in time and erase what I've said/done. And when I'm not busy doing that, then I'm letting others poke holes in my self-esteem with their words - draw me into corners and make assumptions that leave me with a bad taste in my mouth and feeling even more isolated.
Of course it could all just be swinging hormones, affecting the colour I see the world. Well, most of it at least. But somehow I seem to have this inbuilt ability to make an idiot of myself, even at the best of times when idiotness should be completely off the options list.
And this morning it hit me that I've isolated myself as a result. I haven't let anyone get too close, I've kept out of conversations and relationships so I won't turn out to be a fool. (Even if I don't appear to be a fool to others, I too often feel it) I've held those around me at arm's length, never getting too close. When I have started to tentatively engage, the idiot factor rears up again. So I bow out, refrain from comment, step back from the ever-entwining circles which a part of me longs to join. I stand on the outside and let them go on without me. It's a hurt-prevention mechanism that's become second-nature.
Except here. My "safe" place to be who I am and say what I want.
Which is why I'm blogging this.
::update::
Written in high school, I guess this shows my "social ineptitude" has been ongoing, and perhaps I should be seeking permanent solutions:
I watch the world go by
An outsider in a glass cage
In desperation I strike the pane
It breaks and my hand is cut
In the outside world I walk eagerly
Reaching out to parts of humanity
But the world turns its back
Wherever I turn it turns away
My tears wash the blood on my hand
A thin transparent shield grows
With every rejection it thickens
This glass cage is unbreakable
My wounded hand will not heal
Lately it seems there's not a day that goes by without me having to apologize, or wish I could backtrack in time and erase what I've said/done. And when I'm not busy doing that, then I'm letting others poke holes in my self-esteem with their words - draw me into corners and make assumptions that leave me with a bad taste in my mouth and feeling even more isolated.
Of course it could all just be swinging hormones, affecting the colour I see the world. Well, most of it at least. But somehow I seem to have this inbuilt ability to make an idiot of myself, even at the best of times when idiotness should be completely off the options list.
And this morning it hit me that I've isolated myself as a result. I haven't let anyone get too close, I've kept out of conversations and relationships so I won't turn out to be a fool. (Even if I don't appear to be a fool to others, I too often feel it) I've held those around me at arm's length, never getting too close. When I have started to tentatively engage, the idiot factor rears up again. So I bow out, refrain from comment, step back from the ever-entwining circles which a part of me longs to join. I stand on the outside and let them go on without me. It's a hurt-prevention mechanism that's become second-nature.
Except here. My "safe" place to be who I am and say what I want.
Which is why I'm blogging this.
::update::
Written in high school, I guess this shows my "social ineptitude" has been ongoing, and perhaps I should be seeking permanent solutions:
I watch the world go by
An outsider in a glass cage
In desperation I strike the pane
It breaks and my hand is cut
In the outside world I walk eagerly
Reaching out to parts of humanity
But the world turns its back
Wherever I turn it turns away
My tears wash the blood on my hand
A thin transparent shield grows
With every rejection it thickens
This glass cage is unbreakable
My wounded hand will not heal
Scored
While sitting outside reading yesterday afternoon, my brain slowly started to notice a sound that had been going on in the background for a while. The sound of chainsaws. It was the crack of a falling tree that finally got me to look up.
There seems to be an anti-tree movement on campus. Every so often I find them felling gorgeous things that have been growing for decades. Yesterday was no different.
There's a line of 6 or so "Swarthout" (Australian blackwood) trees at the end of my road. They were planted at least 30 years ago by a man who taught woodwork and maintenance on campus. It's one of the more pricey woods - but it was blocking the view. So down they were coming, one after the other. Besides the view issue, apparently they were "leaning toward the house" - however when one fell that way it completely fell short of the house itself... sorry, not a good excuse.
These same folk took out 3 gigantic pine trees the second they moved in, and then chopped all the greenery off the tree outside their kitchen. I'm smugly chuffed to see it has since sprouted back completely.
But down the swarthout trees were coming, and I had to go have a closer look. It was only then that I found out that all the valuable wood, all those years growth, was on its way to the nearest purveyor of firewood!
Now I love wood, that's no exaggeration. I love its smell, its grain, its rough bark texture, its glow. I was quite literally p'd off when I saw what was going on. So I got permission to haul a few logs away - just the smaller ones, about 40cm long and 20 or more cm wide. The ones I could carry, and which would fit in the boot of the ever-hard-working Friggin'Ford. The elderly gentleman who lives with the family came to help me, and today called me back to collect a few more. I now have around 20 beautiful pieces of wood stacked in the garage, drying out - with a light outer and dark heart. I don't yet know what I'll be making from them, but ideas are brewing...
You see, once that garage is cleared (thanks to freecycle), it's going to be my workshop for all the stuff I want to get my hands dirty with. A decent wood work area, a place to experiment with clay and paint too. Although I have a couple of power tools, I'm hoping to post a request to freecycle for any woodworking equipment - power tools yes, but also chisels, planes, the old and well-worn tools of yesteryear.
And then all those ideas percolating inside my skull are going to find their expression in reality. Solid wooden toys for kids, turned and carved bowls, shelves and chairs and things of beauty that showcase the wonders of wood.
In the meantime though, I've totally scored the most amazing wood. Free.
There seems to be an anti-tree movement on campus. Every so often I find them felling gorgeous things that have been growing for decades. Yesterday was no different.
There's a line of 6 or so "Swarthout" (Australian blackwood) trees at the end of my road. They were planted at least 30 years ago by a man who taught woodwork and maintenance on campus. It's one of the more pricey woods - but it was blocking the view. So down they were coming, one after the other. Besides the view issue, apparently they were "leaning toward the house" - however when one fell that way it completely fell short of the house itself... sorry, not a good excuse.
These same folk took out 3 gigantic pine trees the second they moved in, and then chopped all the greenery off the tree outside their kitchen. I'm smugly chuffed to see it has since sprouted back completely.
But down the swarthout trees were coming, and I had to go have a closer look. It was only then that I found out that all the valuable wood, all those years growth, was on its way to the nearest purveyor of firewood!
Now I love wood, that's no exaggeration. I love its smell, its grain, its rough bark texture, its glow. I was quite literally p'd off when I saw what was going on. So I got permission to haul a few logs away - just the smaller ones, about 40cm long and 20 or more cm wide. The ones I could carry, and which would fit in the boot of the ever-hard-working Friggin'Ford. The elderly gentleman who lives with the family came to help me, and today called me back to collect a few more. I now have around 20 beautiful pieces of wood stacked in the garage, drying out - with a light outer and dark heart. I don't yet know what I'll be making from them, but ideas are brewing...You see, once that garage is cleared (thanks to freecycle), it's going to be my workshop for all the stuff I want to get my hands dirty with. A decent wood work area, a place to experiment with clay and paint too. Although I have a couple of power tools, I'm hoping to post a request to freecycle for any woodworking equipment - power tools yes, but also chisels, planes, the old and well-worn tools of yesteryear.
And then all those ideas percolating inside my skull are going to find their expression in reality. Solid wooden toys for kids, turned and carved bowls, shelves and chairs and things of beauty that showcase the wonders of wood.
In the meantime though, I've totally scored the most amazing wood. Free.
Hack your life
There seems to be much on the net these days about hacking your life. After a fruitless day of time-wasting shopping (for boots, winter shoes, clothing that lives up to its exorbitant price in quality and style...), I can agree with the sentiments.
So how exactly do you hack your life? Well, it's all in the tweaking, really.
For instance, you could call in the What Not To Wear girls to sort your image - to slap you upside the head and pull in your wobbly bits with great big "miracle knickers", to get you into things I haven't yet seen in any South African shop, in sizes apparently only the UK makes. Believe me, they don't have them here - I tried the entire morning to find them.
You could invest in a book to (Re)Design Yourself, at least the bits you have control over. And do more than simply read it.
You could hack anything from your grocery list to your book collection, your office space to monitoring the baby. Perhaps in the future it will also mean you can find your keys...
It's not about a once-off makeover. It's all about working smarter and quicker in the secondary things in life, in order to make more space and time for the bigger things in life. It's a rethink of how we view small irritations and time-wasters, and ways to eliminate them.
If that requires someone else to plan your wardrobe, tell you how to manage your time or provide you with a do-it-all gadget to keep you organized, then I'm all for it!
Think about it. You've probably hacked your life already. You've got Flickr storing your photos, GMail giving you access to your email from everywhere, a WiFi connection keeping you in contact with the folk back home, and Skype for phonecalls. You may have a Leatherman (if you're the outdoors type) - a many-in-one tool kit. You likely have a no-defrost-necessary fridge. Your car beeps if it's low on something essential and the coffee machine switches on at a set time. Your family reads your blog so you don't have to repeat your news. You have caller ID on the phone and spam filters on the email. You have a washer & dryer combo that requires only one button to be pushed. Your microwave makes an entire meal in 2 minutes. You have an automatic door on the garage and all your friends nubmers stored in the cellphone. You buy and sell online, and it's delivered to the door. You order in when you don't have time to cook. Totally hacked.
Further reading:
LifeHacker.com
What is LifeHacking?
So how exactly do you hack your life? Well, it's all in the tweaking, really.
For instance, you could call in the What Not To Wear girls to sort your image - to slap you upside the head and pull in your wobbly bits with great big "miracle knickers", to get you into things I haven't yet seen in any South African shop, in sizes apparently only the UK makes. Believe me, they don't have them here - I tried the entire morning to find them.
You could invest in a book to (Re)Design Yourself, at least the bits you have control over. And do more than simply read it.
You could hack anything from your grocery list to your book collection, your office space to monitoring the baby. Perhaps in the future it will also mean you can find your keys...
It's not about a once-off makeover. It's all about working smarter and quicker in the secondary things in life, in order to make more space and time for the bigger things in life. It's a rethink of how we view small irritations and time-wasters, and ways to eliminate them.
If that requires someone else to plan your wardrobe, tell you how to manage your time or provide you with a do-it-all gadget to keep you organized, then I'm all for it!
Think about it. You've probably hacked your life already. You've got Flickr storing your photos, GMail giving you access to your email from everywhere, a WiFi connection keeping you in contact with the folk back home, and Skype for phonecalls. You may have a Leatherman (if you're the outdoors type) - a many-in-one tool kit. You likely have a no-defrost-necessary fridge. Your car beeps if it's low on something essential and the coffee machine switches on at a set time. Your family reads your blog so you don't have to repeat your news. You have caller ID on the phone and spam filters on the email. You have a washer & dryer combo that requires only one button to be pushed. Your microwave makes an entire meal in 2 minutes. You have an automatic door on the garage and all your friends nubmers stored in the cellphone. You buy and sell online, and it's delivered to the door. You order in when you don't have time to cook. Totally hacked.
Further reading:
LifeHacker.com
What is LifeHacking?
Monday? What Monday?
I had to think hard this morning to figure out which day it was. Which I can usually manage by remembering what I watched on TV last night... :)
You see, I'm on leave this week! Unfortunately, this is the week they chose to give everyone half-days, with Thursday off... why, when I'm on official leave, does this always happen?
Well, it's not terribly good weather to be outdoors. Not that it's rainy, but the winter chill is definitely setting in and my heater has seen the light of day recently. None of that lovely summer warmth left, and it gets dark early. So instead of the gardening I'd hoped to do, I find myself spending time indoors. Hanging out on the computer, chatting to folk on the forum, watching movies and surfing the net. Cooking a bit, baking a bit - and doing the dishes. It does tend to be a bit of a working holiday when you have a house to maintain...
But all is not labour! Later this week we're going to watch Ice Age 2, and I STILL need to go shopping for boots and/or winter clothing. This is the last chance I'll get in a while to take an entire day to wander shops, and leave the kid at home.
Later in the week we've got a big braai (barbecue), just for the heck of it. A chance to hang out with people we usually only see in passing, and socialize. And then it's Easter. This is the first year in ages that I've made no religious plans... a sign of the times I guess.
So Monday has struck - yet not Monday. More like a working weekend with a bit of sleeping in. Pity the poor folk getting up early to slog it out in an office.
You see, I'm on leave this week! Unfortunately, this is the week they chose to give everyone half-days, with Thursday off... why, when I'm on official leave, does this always happen?
Well, it's not terribly good weather to be outdoors. Not that it's rainy, but the winter chill is definitely setting in and my heater has seen the light of day recently. None of that lovely summer warmth left, and it gets dark early. So instead of the gardening I'd hoped to do, I find myself spending time indoors. Hanging out on the computer, chatting to folk on the forum, watching movies and surfing the net. Cooking a bit, baking a bit - and doing the dishes. It does tend to be a bit of a working holiday when you have a house to maintain...
But all is not labour! Later this week we're going to watch Ice Age 2, and I STILL need to go shopping for boots and/or winter clothing. This is the last chance I'll get in a while to take an entire day to wander shops, and leave the kid at home.
Later in the week we've got a big braai (barbecue), just for the heck of it. A chance to hang out with people we usually only see in passing, and socialize. And then it's Easter. This is the first year in ages that I've made no religious plans... a sign of the times I guess.
So Monday has struck - yet not Monday. More like a working weekend with a bit of sleeping in. Pity the poor folk getting up early to slog it out in an office.
Updating the Sex Ed
It's funny how my worldview has shifted over the past few years. Things I thought were set in stone, suddenly aren't. Religion & spirituality has changed, my headspace is completely different.
And that's spread to the sex education side of parenting too.
Now some of you are likely to crucify me (or at least delete this blog from your blogroll and turn your eyes heavenward in horror), but I don't plan on preaching to my son that sex before marriage is completely wrong. I'm not going to put guilt and pressure on him, when I know full-well that times have more than changed, and that kids his age may already be experimenting with sex.
Instead, I'm looking at a more "liberated" view of sex, and how I'll deal with his sexuality.
Yes, he knows all about AIDS and STDs from school, but I will also talk to him about the emotional aspects of getting involved in sex at too young an age, how you can only give your virginity to one person - and that it's worth it to rather wait than be sorry later.
He knows about condoms. He knows about other means of birth control. I will, if necessary, help him buy them (later...). (He's not getting into my stash! :) )
I plan to teach him everything there is to know about the female body, so that he will understand fully what is appropriate and what is not once he acquires a girlfriend. (And should he choose to instead acquire a boyfriend - amazingly, I'm OK with that. No one is going to go crazy should his sexual orientation turn out different from the "norm") I plan to share my experience of sex and how it can both be good and bad, harmful and wonderful. I aim to equip him with knowledge, and more knowledge, so that he can not only make an informed decision regarding his sexuality, but not feel under pressure to either hold out indefinitely or feel guilty for not doing so.
Am I weird? Probably. Going to hell? Perhaps..! :)
But kids are doing this earlier rather than later (watch "Thirteen", if you haven't already), and he's about to hit teenagedom.
Last night we watched "The Mating Habits of the Earthbound Human" - a pretty good starting point for discussion, and a humorous bit of sex ed if ever I saw one. We've seen the opposite end of the spectrum - an American woman who gave very indepth info on just what you can contract from sex (30 different STDs and more), which was kinda scary, but realistic. I don't restrict his viewing if there's sexual content on TV/movies, but we do talk about it before and after we've seen it.
I guess I'm part of the new, liberated parenting movement! :) But I suspect that going about it this way may help him in the long run, not harm him.
As always, your thoughts in the comments are welcome!
And that's spread to the sex education side of parenting too.
Now some of you are likely to crucify me (or at least delete this blog from your blogroll and turn your eyes heavenward in horror), but I don't plan on preaching to my son that sex before marriage is completely wrong. I'm not going to put guilt and pressure on him, when I know full-well that times have more than changed, and that kids his age may already be experimenting with sex.
Instead, I'm looking at a more "liberated" view of sex, and how I'll deal with his sexuality.
Yes, he knows all about AIDS and STDs from school, but I will also talk to him about the emotional aspects of getting involved in sex at too young an age, how you can only give your virginity to one person - and that it's worth it to rather wait than be sorry later.
He knows about condoms. He knows about other means of birth control. I will, if necessary, help him buy them (later...). (He's not getting into my stash! :) )
I plan to teach him everything there is to know about the female body, so that he will understand fully what is appropriate and what is not once he acquires a girlfriend. (And should he choose to instead acquire a boyfriend - amazingly, I'm OK with that. No one is going to go crazy should his sexual orientation turn out different from the "norm") I plan to share my experience of sex and how it can both be good and bad, harmful and wonderful. I aim to equip him with knowledge, and more knowledge, so that he can not only make an informed decision regarding his sexuality, but not feel under pressure to either hold out indefinitely or feel guilty for not doing so.
Am I weird? Probably. Going to hell? Perhaps..! :)
But kids are doing this earlier rather than later (watch "Thirteen", if you haven't already), and he's about to hit teenagedom.
Last night we watched "The Mating Habits of the Earthbound Human" - a pretty good starting point for discussion, and a humorous bit of sex ed if ever I saw one. We've seen the opposite end of the spectrum - an American woman who gave very indepth info on just what you can contract from sex (30 different STDs and more), which was kinda scary, but realistic. I don't restrict his viewing if there's sexual content on TV/movies, but we do talk about it before and after we've seen it.
I guess I'm part of the new, liberated parenting movement! :) But I suspect that going about it this way may help him in the long run, not harm him.
As always, your thoughts in the comments are welcome!
Late Friday Night...
A good friend has just announced her pregnancy to a couple of us via a local chat network (ah, the joys of modern-day technology!). Another is in her last month or so. The neighbour upstairs is expecting later in the year. It's joy all around!
So why do I sit here in tears?
I guess it's because at times like this I realize how "single" I am. And although I've had a child and been a mom, I've missed out on having a rejoicing husband bouncing off the walls at the news. The "let's try for another". The commisseration at failed hopes, and then the incredible awesomeness of the knowlege that Creation has happened deep within you once again.
But this is my path. This is where I am. And I can do no other.
So why do I sit here in tears?
I guess it's because at times like this I realize how "single" I am. And although I've had a child and been a mom, I've missed out on having a rejoicing husband bouncing off the walls at the news. The "let's try for another". The commisseration at failed hopes, and then the incredible awesomeness of the knowlege that Creation has happened deep within you once again.
But this is my path. This is where I am. And I can do no other.
Increasingly Geekier: part 2
It appears I'll soon be acquiring a second computer at home... There's one going for an OK price, and I should be able to scrape the cash together to get it.
You see, my son's discovered FreeCiv, and online Civilization-type game. My own fault, a friend recommended it and I installed it. But now I can't get anywhere near my computer! It's holidays, and if he's not on the computer with FreeCiv, he's on it with Adventure Quest - or on the PS2. Add to that an internal chat network recently established (and highly addictive - hence the lack of blogging here on some days), and I'm constantly fighting him for computer time.
So a second computer it has to be. Right about when they start to charge us an increased rate for electricity...
Anway, with an additional machine, it means I can sit and fiddle a bit more. I can finally get around to all those things I need to learn and do, without having to fight off the kid every 5 minutes. I can stick it in MY room and get some privacy. I can even get up in the middle of the night to write something, blog something or chat to someone without waking him up too!
You know, when I was young, there was such a thing as spending your entire holidays outdoors....
You see, my son's discovered FreeCiv, and online Civilization-type game. My own fault, a friend recommended it and I installed it. But now I can't get anywhere near my computer! It's holidays, and if he's not on the computer with FreeCiv, he's on it with Adventure Quest - or on the PS2. Add to that an internal chat network recently established (and highly addictive - hence the lack of blogging here on some days), and I'm constantly fighting him for computer time.
So a second computer it has to be. Right about when they start to charge us an increased rate for electricity...
Anway, with an additional machine, it means I can sit and fiddle a bit more. I can finally get around to all those things I need to learn and do, without having to fight off the kid every 5 minutes. I can stick it in MY room and get some privacy. I can even get up in the middle of the night to write something, blog something or chat to someone without waking him up too!
You know, when I was young, there was such a thing as spending your entire holidays outdoors....
What not to do
Today I should NOT be:
* Blogging
* Chatting - online or off
* Wearing high heels
* Attempting anything that requires brain power
* Attempting to be bright, witty, gorgeous or funny
* Posting this
::update::
Things to do instead:
* Buy chocolate
* Eat chocolate
* Take of damn high heels
* Get a decent supply of chocolate easter eggs - preferably those little creme-filled ones...
* Take a very deep breath
* Blogging
* Chatting - online or off
* Wearing high heels
* Attempting anything that requires brain power
* Attempting to be bright, witty, gorgeous or funny
* Posting this
::update::
Things to do instead:
* Buy chocolate
* Eat chocolate
* Take of damn high heels
* Get a decent supply of chocolate easter eggs - preferably those little creme-filled ones...
* Take a very deep breath
Forbidden/Verboten/Prohibidio
There are days where I wish I could scan-and-delete stuff in my brain. A mental malware checker, if you will.
Like the mild crush I have on someone I should not be crushing about. It's not a constant crush, just an occasional one. It comes and goes, and today it's back. Darnit.
There is no chance of me doing anything about it - it's one of those situations where both of us could potentially get in trouble. No, he's not married or anything. He's a bit younger than me, and he's a student. And THAT'S where the problem comes in. Staff & students are not to get involved in anything more than a professional relationship. (Though at least one has, and had to fight for it)
It's not the first time in the 10 years I've worked here that I've had a crush on a student. There was another, many years ago. I've worked through it in the past. Gotten beyond it without the other party knowing a thing.
And I'm going to have to do it again... Take a deep breath and refocus. Leave it the heck alone.
Like the mild crush I have on someone I should not be crushing about. It's not a constant crush, just an occasional one. It comes and goes, and today it's back. Darnit.
There is no chance of me doing anything about it - it's one of those situations where both of us could potentially get in trouble. No, he's not married or anything. He's a bit younger than me, and he's a student. And THAT'S where the problem comes in. Staff & students are not to get involved in anything more than a professional relationship. (Though at least one has, and had to fight for it)
It's not the first time in the 10 years I've worked here that I've had a crush on a student. There was another, many years ago. I've worked through it in the past. Gotten beyond it without the other party knowing a thing.
And I'm going to have to do it again... Take a deep breath and refocus. Leave it the heck alone.
Digital Camera Envy (or, I want a Big one!)
It's funny how you're never satisfied with what you have.
Take digital cameras for example. The first one I got had basic cellphone technology, except a bit less than what phones come with these days. It didn't have a screen, could only take 24 photos at a time - and if you removed the batteries you lost them. It was prone to interesting digital effects.
Last year, while in Australia, I finally got a really nice little digital camera - a Canon Powershot A95. What a pleasure! Sound, movies, loads of storage space, rechargeable batteries, zoom, focus...WOW. And since then the photos here have improved somewhat. I've had fun taking shots of interesting things, close-ups of nature, and using the stitch ability to create montages. I've even done a few seconds of movie now and then.
But it's still not enough.
A while back I dug out a box of Real Photos and found some taken with an ancient Minolta I have. I got it cheap, but it came with a multitude of lenses that helped create some marvellous shots. There's a focus effect I managed that the digital simply won't do. Well, my current digital won't do. Unfortunately, Real Film has become outrageously pricey to develop.
Which is why I want the Big One. The digital cameras that look like the old ones did, with many focus, zoom and picture options. Like a Nikon D70... or something even more ambitious! I have a couple of friends who own these, professional photographers who create the most incredible shots - and one who makes a darned good living from doing that.
I am happy with my camera, really I am. But a part of me is just that tiniest bit envious...
Take digital cameras for example. The first one I got had basic cellphone technology, except a bit less than what phones come with these days. It didn't have a screen, could only take 24 photos at a time - and if you removed the batteries you lost them. It was prone to interesting digital effects.
Last year, while in Australia, I finally got a really nice little digital camera - a Canon Powershot A95. What a pleasure! Sound, movies, loads of storage space, rechargeable batteries, zoom, focus...WOW. And since then the photos here have improved somewhat. I've had fun taking shots of interesting things, close-ups of nature, and using the stitch ability to create montages. I've even done a few seconds of movie now and then.
But it's still not enough.
A while back I dug out a box of Real Photos and found some taken with an ancient Minolta I have. I got it cheap, but it came with a multitude of lenses that helped create some marvellous shots. There's a focus effect I managed that the digital simply won't do. Well, my current digital won't do. Unfortunately, Real Film has become outrageously pricey to develop.
Which is why I want the Big One. The digital cameras that look like the old ones did, with many focus, zoom and picture options. Like a Nikon D70... or something even more ambitious! I have a couple of friends who own these, professional photographers who create the most incredible shots - and one who makes a darned good living from doing that.
I am happy with my camera, really I am. But a part of me is just that tiniest bit envious...
Increasingly Geekier
What started as a hobby is beginning to become a life. I never imagined that attempting to create a web page (the first one pure HTML, done in a text editor!) would have led to where I find myself today.
A couple of years ago work appointed me webmaster, as there was no-one else who had any experience doing web design. I'd learnt everything I knew by fiddling, but had enough knowledge to do more than a trained computer guy who attempted it got right. So I was dumped in at the deep end.
A year or two later, work helped me out with a short course in web design, which upped both experience and knowledge, and gave me a certificate to back up my experience. Cool. With that I managed to redo our website and get it looking a million times better than it had been.
But...
There's always a but. You see, knowledge is unending, and I'm hungry for it. I get a taste of CSS and want to know everything. I learn basic JavaScript commands, and want to be able to rattle them off to do anything. Database? Well, that's my next huge challenge. The entire webiste needs to move over to database-based operation & design!
So I'm trying to get all that stuff into my head - the languages, the commands, the structure, the how-to's. And getting more and more frustrated as I face regular interruptions during the process.
You see, I wear two hats here. There's my official job (admissions) and then there's the one I was given to do "in my spare time", unlisted on my job description and with no extra remuneration (webmaster). The latter takes up more time than the former, and a lot more effort! Too often I find myself torn between these two duties - keeping one going smoothly while trying to upgrade my headspace for the other.
But as I mentioned at the start, the computer stuff is drawing me in. I find it fascinating, I enjoy getting my brain around the challenges, and I find that I'm often the "run-to" in the office (so must be doing something right). The IT guy has been kind enough to let me get my hands dirty with some of the computer things that go on here, and I put up a good facade of knowing what I'm doing. Yet it's not enough. I want to know everything!
With a month's extra leave coming up, I'm considering taking that time to absorb knowledge, get training, and up my abilities. I was thinking of a course at the agricultural college (farming-related, toward the Big Dream) - but to be practical I'd rather Go Geek. Those skills I can use in a myriad of ways!
One of these days I'm going to have to get a pocket protector...
A couple of years ago work appointed me webmaster, as there was no-one else who had any experience doing web design. I'd learnt everything I knew by fiddling, but had enough knowledge to do more than a trained computer guy who attempted it got right. So I was dumped in at the deep end.
A year or two later, work helped me out with a short course in web design, which upped both experience and knowledge, and gave me a certificate to back up my experience. Cool. With that I managed to redo our website and get it looking a million times better than it had been.
But...
There's always a but. You see, knowledge is unending, and I'm hungry for it. I get a taste of CSS and want to know everything. I learn basic JavaScript commands, and want to be able to rattle them off to do anything. Database? Well, that's my next huge challenge. The entire webiste needs to move over to database-based operation & design!
So I'm trying to get all that stuff into my head - the languages, the commands, the structure, the how-to's. And getting more and more frustrated as I face regular interruptions during the process.
You see, I wear two hats here. There's my official job (admissions) and then there's the one I was given to do "in my spare time", unlisted on my job description and with no extra remuneration (webmaster). The latter takes up more time than the former, and a lot more effort! Too often I find myself torn between these two duties - keeping one going smoothly while trying to upgrade my headspace for the other.
But as I mentioned at the start, the computer stuff is drawing me in. I find it fascinating, I enjoy getting my brain around the challenges, and I find that I'm often the "run-to" in the office (so must be doing something right). The IT guy has been kind enough to let me get my hands dirty with some of the computer things that go on here, and I put up a good facade of knowing what I'm doing. Yet it's not enough. I want to know everything!
With a month's extra leave coming up, I'm considering taking that time to absorb knowledge, get training, and up my abilities. I was thinking of a course at the agricultural college (farming-related, toward the Big Dream) - but to be practical I'd rather Go Geek. Those skills I can use in a myriad of ways!
One of these days I'm going to have to get a pocket protector...
Break the silence
Geez, it's been quiet around here, hasn't it! Truth is, I came to work on Monday expecting a 2-hour meeting, and found myself on the list for the next 2 days! But it's been pretty exciting stuff - transformation, big dreams, plans and action. I'm almost motivated to buckle under and stay an employee for a few more years...
Which may be why they stuck me on the committee in the first place! :)
Nevertheless, I do have something to share.
Yesterday some high cloud moved in, blanketing the heat in. By evening there were hints of thunder, and then the rain came down! And here's the after-effects:
What a marvellous evening it turned out to be!
Which may be why they stuck me on the committee in the first place! :)
Nevertheless, I do have something to share.
Yesterday some high cloud moved in, blanketing the heat in. By evening there were hints of thunder, and then the rain came down! And here's the after-effects:
What a marvellous evening it turned out to be!
Kill! Kill! Kill! (it's a dog's life...)
My dogs are not talking to each other. They're not talking to me either. One has not come out of his dogbox for a day already, and is limping. The other one has a swollen face and ear full of water...
And why, you may ask?
Because on Friday night, Sid got up on a bed and Didi decided he was in the wrong place - and attacked. They fought on the bed, they fought under it, they fought all around the house, knocking down small tables - remotes flying, wherever they went.
A few cups of water chucked on them didn't help. Air freshener up the nostrils - no luck. A squirt of vinegar - no reaction.
We managed to pry them apart after 10 minutes and chuck one outside.
Next day, someone let Didi in while Sid was in the kitchen - and they have MAJOR food issues. Another big bite-and-fight ensued. Shorter, but deadlier. Hence the limping dog - and this time there was a smattering of blood. (They're very hairy, so usually the teeth don't get to skin level, no matter how they hang on)
I honestly don't know how to solve their issues, except by giving one away. I can't explain to them they're being stupid and ask them to stop.
So today it's quiet here. No barking, no playing, no nothing. One inside, one out. Let's hope that's sorted their blood-lust for a few more months...
And why, you may ask?
Because on Friday night, Sid got up on a bed and Didi decided he was in the wrong place - and attacked. They fought on the bed, they fought under it, they fought all around the house, knocking down small tables - remotes flying, wherever they went.
A few cups of water chucked on them didn't help. Air freshener up the nostrils - no luck. A squirt of vinegar - no reaction.
We managed to pry them apart after 10 minutes and chuck one outside.
Next day, someone let Didi in while Sid was in the kitchen - and they have MAJOR food issues. Another big bite-and-fight ensued. Shorter, but deadlier. Hence the limping dog - and this time there was a smattering of blood. (They're very hairy, so usually the teeth don't get to skin level, no matter how they hang on)
I honestly don't know how to solve their issues, except by giving one away. I can't explain to them they're being stupid and ask them to stop.
So today it's quiet here. No barking, no playing, no nothing. One inside, one out. Let's hope that's sorted their blood-lust for a few more months...
April Fool
Oh man, did we get our IT guy good!
Yesterday a colleague suggested we get someone to phone him and say we're from some authority, coming immediately to check for any illegal software/files on the company computers. Now, there happens to be a bit here and there - nothing major, but individuals have a habit of downloading stuff, you know.
Well, this morning my brother was co-opted into the task, and put on a show that would have won him an Oscar. We had the IT guy in a total tizz! Until we let him know it was all in the spirit of the day (and got banned briefly from a local network chat in the name of revenge... ;) ).
The funniest thing was though that the guy who spoke to me to arrange it actually thought he was asking someone else to do so! So I guess we ended up with more fools than we'd intended.
Did you get suckered too? Do tell!
Yesterday a colleague suggested we get someone to phone him and say we're from some authority, coming immediately to check for any illegal software/files on the company computers. Now, there happens to be a bit here and there - nothing major, but individuals have a habit of downloading stuff, you know.
Well, this morning my brother was co-opted into the task, and put on a show that would have won him an Oscar. We had the IT guy in a total tizz! Until we let him know it was all in the spirit of the day (and got banned briefly from a local network chat in the name of revenge... ;) ).
The funniest thing was though that the guy who spoke to me to arrange it actually thought he was asking someone else to do so! So I guess we ended up with more fools than we'd intended.
Did you get suckered too? Do tell!
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