tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28100206798825572352024-03-13T08:29:22.583-07:00The world through Claire-coloured glasses.Musings of an eternal optimistClairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00978453942104739735noreply@blogger.comBlogger13125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810020679882557235.post-12154939984736916532015-02-03T02:09:00.000-08:002015-02-03T02:09:06.410-08:00Obituary - Navy tea dress with pink flowers<div>
17 September 2010 - 2 February 2015 </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0u-LZfT7Fz2bFi1P2NrqyFDHfzHgqUsw7eDm8FVGJsO-9IPZeiLViUUdFYyYA73RVGwPHET2hOQmB2COVoUdRoll-j1XXf3POBLvPHeBNPXvckFtU-MdnrzNf6O-HqvP_ULvy8xQrFQA/s1600/navy+sundress+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0u-LZfT7Fz2bFi1P2NrqyFDHfzHgqUsw7eDm8FVGJsO-9IPZeiLViUUdFYyYA73RVGwPHET2hOQmB2COVoUdRoll-j1XXf3POBLvPHeBNPXvckFtU-MdnrzNf6O-HqvP_ULvy8xQrFQA/s1600/navy+sundress+1.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a></div>
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Purchased on the Gold Coast, Australia on 17 September 2009, moved to Auckland soon after where it passed out of functional life on 2 Feb 2015, 4 1/2 years old.</div>
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Cause of death: Transparency </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhctFfrsbEDPbaKj94G8knWkf8mUJ0DIX0bNla7OJ-Uxm5qNPAN_aNdGYA7OYHuHYx_aXvq0t79HsWNhXabQvqGuf2SR-yP9N_ZkEsmPJbXNknHHgvgGzf1USZMD8D5N9tAAYnYJzTN61c/s1600/navy+sundress+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhctFfrsbEDPbaKj94G8knWkf8mUJ0DIX0bNla7OJ-Uxm5qNPAN_aNdGYA7OYHuHYx_aXvq0t79HsWNhXabQvqGuf2SR-yP9N_ZkEsmPJbXNknHHgvgGzf1USZMD8D5N9tAAYnYJzTN61c/s1600/navy+sundress+3.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN9KvqARwPTjPy2YDLgHVZkOHja7nT-7jaxI2aHB91FI67aOlhBxiCt87-R4qCiiLRUZF0ew-wkFjc4JODvPgozqg-5kF8x6h8XK6fFnUTy5SaBYBt2SpuHhqTTmdbdfCL3xtK269JN_w/s1600/navy+sundress+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN9KvqARwPTjPy2YDLgHVZkOHja7nT-7jaxI2aHB91FI67aOlhBxiCt87-R4qCiiLRUZF0ew-wkFjc4JODvPgozqg-5kF8x6h8XK6fFnUTy5SaBYBt2SpuHhqTTmdbdfCL3xtK269JN_w/s1600/navy+sundress+2.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a>The Hot Options size 12 polyester navy tea dress with pink flowers and neckline frill was purchased at Target for $25 while on holiday on the Gold Coast with the aim of filling a short term holiday need. Despite it's mass-production beginnings, the dress was a rare find - light and cool enough for the hottest summer day while also giving enough coverage to be appropriate for any occasion. The perfect balance of femininity, classic styling, go anywhere versatility and wearability. The dress rose above it's humble beginnings and over time, came to be regarded as a best friend - always there when needed, always flattering and confidence giving. </div>
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The dress emigrated to NZ where it saw it's human through numerous BBQ's birthday lunches, picnics, other weekend outings and one 21st party. The dress came of age at a radio sports awards breakfast, where teamed with a navy blazer, beads and a low heel, it was graceful, relaxed and looked amazing in the official photos. The dress was also worn to the Christmas lunches of 2010 and 2012.</div>
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The dress inspired compliments on a few occasions, one particular time in the kitchenette at Rodney District Council where someone wanted to know where it was purchased from.</div>
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The dress enjoyed a brief but full life, but ultimately after years of not being washed according to the care instructions, it became too transparent to carry out its intended function.</div>
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The navy tea dress is survived by wardrobe friends Navy blazer, denim jacket, and Ipanema sandals.</div>
Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00978453942104739735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810020679882557235.post-33203654842387078732012-05-10T03:02:00.000-07:002012-05-10T03:02:04.413-07:00<u><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The 12 stages
of doing a University Assignment<o:p></o:p></span></span></u><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Stage 1:<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Curiosity – what
exactly do they want from us here<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Stage 2:<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Confidence – oh well
that seems reasonable and easy to do<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 72pt; text-indent: -72pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Stage 3:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Over confidence – I could take this perspective… link
it to that and talk about this!!!!!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Stage 4:<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> Re</span>ality check 1. You
have gone off on a tangent<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Shit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Scrap all that and go back to step 1. </span></span></div>
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Stage 5:<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> Business time: Get the books out and research</span></span></span><br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Stage 6:<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> H</span></span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">ope:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Things start to make sense, start writing.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Stage 7: <span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Despair - Immediately
have twice the word count.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Go back to
step 1.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Stage 8:<span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Light at the end
of the tunnel - Write more, edit more, nearly there…<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 72pt; text-indent: -72pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Stage 9: Nihilism: Deciding that everything you have written is crap.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You need to start again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Return to step 1.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Stage 10:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> R</span>eality check 2.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Realising it’s too late to start again or change
it all now<o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt 72pt; text-indent: -72pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Stage 11:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> F</span>inal edit and proof read – it may be crap but at least
you might get mercy for good spelling and grammar<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Stage 12:<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Submitting it with relief, not pride, and a prayer
for clemency<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw7buJcxGeT-HicfHhXN0Lr3Vw2Ck6QiI8Fy6WK53RCyzYsQ4Ab5Q2b1UgLH4C9ZJpfmr05Bs0QPjYDJXxMbuV8fhFV5QnHfNo5alXsT3EF4J_YpP1rlzt7lqS3q5p1UnlYiskCRhvLvg/s1600/me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw7buJcxGeT-HicfHhXN0Lr3Vw2Ck6QiI8Fy6WK53RCyzYsQ4Ab5Q2b1UgLH4C9ZJpfmr05Bs0QPjYDJXxMbuV8fhFV5QnHfNo5alXsT3EF4J_YpP1rlzt7lqS3q5p1UnlYiskCRhvLvg/s320/me.jpg" width="314" /></a></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00978453942104739735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810020679882557235.post-75474926392910293612012-04-24T15:17:00.001-07:002012-04-24T15:17:50.679-07:00Treats not treatments!<br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">After a cluster
of curveballs at work left me with some niggly pain in my neck and shoulders, I decided it was time to treat myself, and made an appointment at the beauty therapist for a relaxing facial
and massage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">A young
girl greeted me at the desk and ushered me through to a room with
instructions to disrobe and lie on the bed under the big towels.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She was back a few minutes later, pulls a
chair up to the table, produces a clipboard and pen and asks me:</span></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWUoB1pWRncOTrAPKNZTJWFt35bzXf4n7Hks77OpG2ky40HGlKPmbT0Xo975ACTOl1h9swvjOa3Nf3vw2uSZeHgbWbYSJWoOv8XByqPDbT7kszYTqqqZj6IyA-jRsgk-d_ycnKsJVlhFA/s1600/therapy+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWUoB1pWRncOTrAPKNZTJWFt35bzXf4n7Hks77OpG2ky40HGlKPmbT0Xo975ACTOl1h9swvjOa3Nf3vw2uSZeHgbWbYSJWoOv8XByqPDbT7kszYTqqqZj6IyA-jRsgk-d_ycnKsJVlhFA/s1600/therapy+pic.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With the right combination of products, <br />
you too could be this content!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“So Claire, how do you
feel about your skin?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The
question took me by surprise. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>How DO I
feel about my skin?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course, I am
grateful for it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am glad I have it…
what is she getting at here?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-indent: 36pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“Umm…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Good?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">She looks
at me intently – evidently, that was the WRONG ANSWER.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She tries again…<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-indent: 36pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“What issues do you
have with your skin?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-indent: 36pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“None really, I think my skin is fine.”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why is she making this difficult?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Enough talky talky, more rubby rubby!!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-indent: 36pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“So what skin problems
would you like me to address today?”<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">ARGH!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All I want to do is lie here and bliss out for
a couple of hours while you rub several different kinds of goop and put warm
towels on me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Big words and problem solving are a couple of
the things I had hoped to escape for a while by coming here, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>so can we please just get started?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-indent: 36pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“ Well I booked in for a relaxing facial and
massage......”<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">She must
have thought I was one tough cookie…<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt; text-indent: 36pt;">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">“OK well let’s cleanse
and then we’ll take a closer look…”<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
<br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">So it turns
out I have a pimple and some un damage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
don’t see these as problems that need to be rectified - I see them as part of
enjoying life!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes I eat chocolate
and sometimes I spend entire days in the sun and I if it gives me pimples and sun damage, I am fine with that!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>In fact, life would be pretty shit without chocolate and sunshine, even
if I did have flawless skin!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The girl
did a great job and I got to bliss out for a while and left the salon feeling
wonderful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">But the
experience got me thinking – why are they trying to make problems out of our natural
conditions?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I almost felt like I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">should</i> have problems, or that the lack of a problem was a problem
in itself!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And it’s not just about skincare or women - <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ads on the radio tell me that balding is now a
medical issue, and in the States, there is a
medication to "treat" shyness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Wikipedia
says “</span><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><em>Therapy is</em></span><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><em> the
attempted remediation of a health problem, usually following a </em><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medical_diagnosis" title="Medical diagnosis"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"><em>diagnosis</em></span></a><em>.
In the medical field, it is synonymous with the word "treatment</em>".<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span lang="EN" style="mso-ansi-language: EN;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>Pimples
are not a health problem, shyness is not a health problem.. Cancer is a health
problem!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In our effort to recognise optimal body-mind
wellbeing, are we creating more problems than we are solving?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Shouldn’t we sort out the real problems
first before we start making up new ones?</span><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00978453942104739735noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810020679882557235.post-60261182593368021322012-01-27T11:44:00.000-08:002012-01-27T11:56:32.449-08:00The Wedding Dress: To have and to hold?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgviaSaUNJpkO6phxYr3vYjlyAxnO63vN8q-ApLBoxiVCWIh65MIdKYjZrjSPFvySPcA8gcJX5IQvjl5Ytt7C4F5EAuMLTp6R_rGrShbtfV8Fo5cVYBr5c9DzlCYoQImfLz31pqKu-rGLU/s1600/My+wedding+dress.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px; width: 213px; height: 320px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702401100444382610" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgviaSaUNJpkO6phxYr3vYjlyAxnO63vN8q-ApLBoxiVCWIh65MIdKYjZrjSPFvySPcA8gcJX5IQvjl5Ytt7C4F5EAuMLTp6R_rGrShbtfV8Fo5cVYBr5c9DzlCYoQImfLz31pqKu-rGLU/s320/My+wedding+dress.jpg" /></a><div><br />When I started the hunt for my wedding dress the mission parameter was simple: Spend as little as possible, wear it and sell it. </div><div><br />Being a bit of a tomboy, I never saw myself in a big boofy dress so it’s a mystery how I ended up at the bridal boutique at all, but when I put on that dress I felt like a princess and heard the voices of angels singing. That was it. The methodist utilitarian voices<br />of my upbringing were instantly quashed by the silent but sure realization that there was no other dress in the world.<br />Just this one.</div><div><br />As I write this, the dress is hanging up in the spare room. I haven’t dry cleaned it, haven’t folded it gently into a big lavish box, tied with a big bow. I have not swathed it in the recommended acid free paper. The only thing I have done is take to it with a scrubbing brush to remove the mud from the bottom. With the considerable circumference of the hem, lining and three layers of petticoat, that was a whole day of scrubbing. Even so, it’s in pretty good condition.<br /></div><div>So now I have this big awkward thing that doesn’t fit in the wardrobe, is too tall for the coat rack, everywhere I put it it’s in the way of something and I worry that it will get knocked down, something will get spilt on it or it will get moldy or moth ridden. There is no good place for it. So it just hangs there.</div><div><br />But I am not ready to sell it.</div><div><br />A friend recently celebrated her ten year wedding anniversary and it was a delight to see her photos – still as gorgeous and in love as the photos from their wedding day ten years ago, and looking just as beautiful in that dress.</div><div><br />I remember a wedding dress fashion parade the staff put on at the rest home I used to work at. Residents and staff and their families donated old wedding dresses to be worn and paraded (in chronological order) for the occasion. The oldest dress was from 1923. My Mum was the only person who could still fit into her own wedding dress to model it. I was left with the last dress after everyone else had chosen - a puffed sleeve shiny lacy thing from the 80’sthat I thought at the time was hideous and is probably a vintage treasure!<br /> </div><div>So it becomes evident that for many people, it’s more than a dress, it’s an embodiment of the optimism, love and joy you felt at the time. Possibly the biggest investment of time and money you will ever put into an item of clothing, and probably the most memorable one. What also impresses me is the amount of pride, warmth and tenderness that comes with these sharing experiences.</div><div><br />So now I am asking myself, what would it take to sell it? What would I be giving up and what amount of money would make that worthwhile?</div><div><br />Fortunately for me, I don’t have to make a decision right now. I don’t’ regret buying this dress, because even if I never wear it again it is still worth every dollar I paid for it to feel as fabulous as I did on the day, and continue to feel in my photos and memories.<br /></div><div>What did you do with your wedding dress? Do you still own it? Have you worn it or bought it out of storage since your wedding day? What about special clothing/costume you bought for other significant occasions in your life – your formal/ball gown? Graduation gown?</div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00978453942104739735noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810020679882557235.post-49949968487244291302010-12-01T21:27:00.000-08:002010-12-01T21:54:04.192-08:00Stop - Thief!!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc96i5HrNtTp0kM0XWZKTKyDt6mxrUkvGzUfg0u1jP3wq9vKZ7ZAX8iqOmR21c8XWePYYLJqTRdwqlkH-mL793aTynmsnQ1xgUVD72h8xHW1CRS5ybUCrklcZnYIKtV3VVzExF2C3tjAY/s1600/annabel_langbein_jpg_4ce097023e.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 275px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc96i5HrNtTp0kM0XWZKTKyDt6mxrUkvGzUfg0u1jP3wq9vKZ7ZAX8iqOmR21c8XWePYYLJqTRdwqlkH-mL793aTynmsnQ1xgUVD72h8xHW1CRS5ybUCrklcZnYIKtV3VVzExF2C3tjAY/s320/annabel_langbein_jpg_4ce097023e.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545957706014528802" border="0" /></a><br />Annabel Langbein has stolen my dream life!!<br /><br />She....<br />Lives in a cabin on Lake Wanaka<br />Has a huge and flourishing vegetable garden<br />Is smart, gorgeous and classy<br />Makes amazing food<br />Has lots of adventures<br /><br />This should come with a warning...<br />http://tvnz.co.nz/free-range-cook/s1-e12-video-3902706Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00978453942104739735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810020679882557235.post-60779991769607895352009-08-13T00:26:00.000-07:002009-08-13T00:32:40.801-07:00Sticking it to "The Man"Today I was the recipient of an unexpected hug.<br /><br />It was from a person I have been working with on a project for work, and therefore, doubly unexpected.<br /><br />She did warn me it was coming, but that only sent me into a stunned, arms-pinned-against-my-sides panic as she descended on me, and somehow it occurred to me to reciprocate. The whole thing was over fairly quickly, and to my surprise, was actually quite a pleasant experience. I felt a definite lifting of the heart.<br /><br />Driving back to the office it occurred to me that once upon a time I was a prolific hugger. What happened? Some time between late adolescence and early adulthood I allowed myself to be convinced that hugging was inappropriate or unprofessional at work and somehow this spilled over into my personal life.<br /><br />Well I am taking the power back! I am going to hug as many people as I can, as many times as possible!Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00978453942104739735noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810020679882557235.post-55846435462994717822009-01-29T03:34:00.000-08:002009-01-30T18:22:07.823-08:00Totally worth the calories...<span style="color:#ff0000;">My top 12 gastronomic delights from our travels in Canada, US and Hawaii...</span><br /><br /><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBdb2WHZrXrfuE5f6su4rCn6RHQ4maCvCCC6ZTOivzcmxqlz8K-dohd7b3pUrStHlKkoLypMdf3-qTJHLvxnXPlcrDhPflslD4FP5P1VjsfSTenypUiXFahQI_SLS08BcNRxfICnwpZ3I/s1600-h/fresh+bagels.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297258609598714674" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 134px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 101px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBdb2WHZrXrfuE5f6su4rCn6RHQ4maCvCCC6ZTOivzcmxqlz8K-dohd7b3pUrStHlKkoLypMdf3-qTJHLvxnXPlcrDhPflslD4FP5P1VjsfSTenypUiXFahQI_SLS08BcNRxfICnwpZ3I/s320/fresh+bagels.jpg" border="0" /></a> 1. <span style="color:#ff6666;">Fairmont Bagels</span>, Montreal. Blueberry, Sesame Seed, Multigran... but best eaten fresh from the oven outside the shop with the other fanatics! Thanks Johnny for introducing us to these!</div><div><br /><br /></div><div></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH2nSNSCqgmIfyoR3OLD2t6Cv8wnBBRd6232M6IVC9DlraWthvmmWdv0VC7RxxyvGVvFHNwCEgEr1GXN0pzrDZB4G0ebe7mcwCv8ldGnznA4ab6wheWqbJ3Oug6t7LYPdX_fQiHxxhDj8/s1600-h/schwatz+sandwich.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297258981799164002" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 134px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 96px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH2nSNSCqgmIfyoR3OLD2t6Cv8wnBBRd6232M6IVC9DlraWthvmmWdv0VC7RxxyvGVvFHNwCEgEr1GXN0pzrDZB4G0ebe7mcwCv8ldGnznA4ab6wheWqbJ3Oug6t7LYPdX_fQiHxxhDj8/s320/schwatz+sandwich.jpg" border="0" /></a>2. <span style="color:#ff6666;">Smoked meat sandwiches</span>, Schwartz Deli, Montreal. Only the best smoked meat in the world could get away with such abrupt (but entertaining) waiters!</div><div><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE8dOS6I_UIoyqoV_pLmTyIkdWgOMM495CTmr3YoSRNgI9D52MZ5nJGjJRpL59uWN-_Uk5vkaLJCybdrFlPch37eRiSUAs3OEtWjVWU9II_2Et7IJQVpS9YtMN_VdsVOywjwqrgPTfdDc/s1600-h/Ottawa,+Montreal+and+Quebec+City077.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297260088504919106" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 101px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 146px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE8dOS6I_UIoyqoV_pLmTyIkdWgOMM495CTmr3YoSRNgI9D52MZ5nJGjJRpL59uWN-_Uk5vkaLJCybdrFlPch37eRiSUAs3OEtWjVWU9II_2Et7IJQVpS9YtMN_VdsVOywjwqrgPTfdDc/s320/Ottawa,+Montreal+and+Quebec+City077.JPG" border="0" /></a> 3. <span style="color:#ff6666;">Poutine</span>, Chez Claudette, Montreal. A French-Canadian staple. French fries covered with rich sweet gravy and topped with cheese curds. Basically a heart attack on a plate. But oh-so-good!</div><div><br /><br /></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiohn6L-VmDGqXQp6mSHJddrpMdJTCwb2od9mculEi-a1mhkQ2Cu9T-I62l1XhQGyk27LS0aQyy36NFOAyOhSPd3pjY-vSrbV8-UY7gTU3mGGKPdV1DfJd0XfPMQR7Q-W2Qr2DlNNOokBY/s1600-h/beavertails.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297260964536091314" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 149px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 87px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiohn6L-VmDGqXQp6mSHJddrpMdJTCwb2od9mculEi-a1mhkQ2Cu9T-I62l1XhQGyk27LS0aQyy36NFOAyOhSPd3pjY-vSrbV8-UY7gTU3mGGKPdV1DfJd0XfPMQR7Q-W2Qr2DlNNOokBY/s320/beavertails.bmp" border="0" /></a>4. <span style="color:#ff6666;">Beavertails</span>, Ottawa. Deep fried pastry covered with cinnamon, sugar, and your choice of hazelnut spread, chocolate, caramel, banana and other goodies. Or just the plain and simple classic style as shown.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinThZZNVv9j3LvsUISX6oG2nk26WUwyB-4d7UsL_cbPwQqOtnZcDiHKbGmxPK2v6giS56bnTo8VjaXIWMgn77mcANc1jvXljvCPlLDggqUTOzmliWuZteVfZJklvK5L5RzVxOA0R45DVg/s1600-h/pic_richtreemarket.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297261962111572546" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 234px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 90px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinThZZNVv9j3LvsUISX6oG2nk26WUwyB-4d7UsL_cbPwQqOtnZcDiHKbGmxPK2v6giS56bnTo8VjaXIWMgn77mcANc1jvXljvCPlLDggqUTOzmliWuZteVfZJklvK5L5RzVxOA0R45DVg/s320/pic_richtreemarket.jpg" border="0" /></a> 5. <span style="color:#ff6666;">Richtree Market</span>, Toronto. You can wander around choosing all or parts of your meal from different vendors providing the brightest and freshest of everything you could possibly imagine and they will cook it to your specifications right in front of you. Total genius. </div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLuSaXTYTTZJygfnwNfVvKVWHtIYqJj-Yj94HEyzUquDVdIH2GYEjwBy08sNxI7htwg7564oxS7xv0MLsiTZvASKGSDN_Gyh1m6g9MOEay1-kzei4hFhOWdQ9wHiYZyPc4nmeyhHIvZ5A/s1600-h/Ottawa,+Montreal+and+Quebec+City120.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297263086061480242" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 111px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 166px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLuSaXTYTTZJygfnwNfVvKVWHtIYqJj-Yj94HEyzUquDVdIH2GYEjwBy08sNxI7htwg7564oxS7xv0MLsiTZvASKGSDN_Gyh1m6g9MOEay1-kzei4hFhOWdQ9wHiYZyPc4nmeyhHIvZ5A/s320/Ottawa,+Montreal+and+Quebec+City120.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br />6. <span style="color:#ff6666;">Buffet de L'Antiquaire</span>, Quebec City. Simply the best value anywhere! Good hearty traditional french canadian fare - welcome sustainance after sightseeing in -30 degrees! Just $30 for two three course meals and as for quality... the look on Ian's face says it all! </div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc06Zf0gt0LuXpIqC3S_tjOFCRUZrM1hAN8MGWm-6jOfeBuGDC_qRPE409aIeudNpoxOFyJ5Kk0Z9dwNpiS37mFivqADrgNG0de1fDhdpT9Vz7eS9QNcXwIYtu7ZligWYAyuLw3NDhTFw/s1600-h/Perogies.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297267977946278242" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 136px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 96px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc06Zf0gt0LuXpIqC3S_tjOFCRUZrM1hAN8MGWm-6jOfeBuGDC_qRPE409aIeudNpoxOFyJ5Kk0Z9dwNpiS37mFivqADrgNG0de1fDhdpT9Vz7eS9QNcXwIYtu7ZligWYAyuLw3NDhTFw/s320/Perogies.jpg" border="0" /></a> 7. <span style="color:#ff6666;">The Brussa-Toi Banquet</span>, Mississauga. With plate after delicious plate Lisa and Bruno had us simultaneously praying for more and fearing it! No photos of the meal unfortunately but here is a pic of some perogies, which were served in abundance!</div><div></div><div><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7KGoL_m6SJpNJINkE3eUFSNB3EzVNLI-mGuxAJoLA4ezvCZUgQUijkJ3WJ8zouLci2BTNcu0o1CG342eEJ1IW1SDbySBfyjtFoMVD2v9fJWtDlubuVl5VfcX8d6Jpc4lk17zW175Mldo/s1600-h/RustiqueBrie.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297268208526483986" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 149px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 98px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7KGoL_m6SJpNJINkE3eUFSNB3EzVNLI-mGuxAJoLA4ezvCZUgQUijkJ3WJ8zouLci2BTNcu0o1CG342eEJ1IW1SDbySBfyjtFoMVD2v9fJWtDlubuVl5VfcX8d6Jpc4lk17zW175Mldo/s320/RustiqueBrie.jpg" border="0" /></a> 8. <span style="color:#ff6666;">Aunt Sandra's cheeses</span>. How does one woman come up with so many gems? Un coup de fromage! Here's one of them....</div><div><br />Special mention also for Aunt Sandra's mince pie!</div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEWx0Fre38ZtWfYV-LLktbzfPurFqQEznMaZpN2s_Ij1tsTo6f2iVhvitroMfSxIUr9jgcjJKLSccHClH8cUD9Q9cNpsEDDX_zTjIGA3iPsBDqnIFPGnnv3hwTvNZaLqdOeGpgJNX1Ras/s1600-h/yummy+korean+bbq.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297269709079948610" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 146px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 119px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEWx0Fre38ZtWfYV-LLktbzfPurFqQEznMaZpN2s_Ij1tsTo6f2iVhvitroMfSxIUr9jgcjJKLSccHClH8cUD9Q9cNpsEDDX_zTjIGA3iPsBDqnIFPGnnv3hwTvNZaLqdOeGpgJNX1Ras/s320/yummy+korean+bbq.jpg" border="0" /></a> 9. <span style="color:#ff6666;">Yummy Korean BBQ</span>, Honolulu. Inside the International Market at Waikiki there is a food court with so much Hawaiian and Pacific cuisine to choose from. My nose led me to the Korean BBQ. Always trust the nose.</div><div><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDHhJSdvJruv5ofcEs-Yp9SW3d1Cey6GKx5JAKVamwy8-dfJQcKy70eB8mZGlnH8-RrXXhbodT6U3985QVOLogXQdv5VYqfs_gqoNwbUeoW2rC07FsvoMWybC2s9RZJeseOnt9wQj-l6w/s1600-h/Ian+at+Timmy%27s+in+Vancouver.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297270438738679698" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 105px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 153px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDHhJSdvJruv5ofcEs-Yp9SW3d1Cey6GKx5JAKVamwy8-dfJQcKy70eB8mZGlnH8-RrXXhbodT6U3985QVOLogXQdv5VYqfs_gqoNwbUeoW2rC07FsvoMWybC2s9RZJeseOnt9wQj-l6w/s320/Ian+at+Timmy%27s+in+Vancouver.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />10. <span style="color:#ff6666;">Tim Hortons</span> hot chocolate and cinnamon roll, special mention for Ian the Iced Cappacino, Boston Creme and Canadian Maple Donuts. Here we are fresh off the plane in Vancouver, Ian reuniting with some of his best friends.</div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM-MEarVlQsJeljjv_1peqllRqgwVeDc6Vq_BdudB4h94OD3fyJ0empKwu2FY4DNolH14jEXkK2SLpXyCrXXwzIqcrKZ_doCVAbyN1lxv1c3ZEe4sR6zdIBq4UO2MdZdSvbMooE1sanRs/s1600-h/Claire+one+with+wing!+-+2Jan09+026.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297271134004630690" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 143px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 72px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM-MEarVlQsJeljjv_1peqllRqgwVeDc6Vq_BdudB4h94OD3fyJ0empKwu2FY4DNolH14jEXkK2SLpXyCrXXwzIqcrKZ_doCVAbyN1lxv1c3ZEe4sR6zdIBq4UO2MdZdSvbMooE1sanRs/s320/Claire+one+with+wing!+-+2Jan09+026.jpg" border="0" /></a> 11. <span style="color:#ff6666;">Buffalo Wings</span>, The Anchor Bar, Buffalo. The home of the Buffalo Wing. There'll be no flying away after these babies.</div><div></div><div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDjV0FWNb7E2EmA3nQ7adClLzS7S9yoUQ3o_y2H2kid0v-yN4EIZsHX6c0euilNWUNLJgxY58u-M4nDGSbvd6fWqlp3_dxywW9GXHC-ZZjbfQiTrm4ii7Yz7cUy9BBcUGt7NL2o2K0u1Y/s1600-h/48+Ian+%26+Paul.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297272717912937346" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 149px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 138px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDjV0FWNb7E2EmA3nQ7adClLzS7S9yoUQ3o_y2H2kid0v-yN4EIZsHX6c0euilNWUNLJgxY58u-M4nDGSbvd6fWqlp3_dxywW9GXHC-ZZjbfQiTrm4ii7Yz7cUy9BBcUGt7NL2o2K0u1Y/s320/48+Ian+%26+Paul.jpg" border="0" /></a></div><div>12. <span style="color:#ff6666;">Anything made by Mr Wannamaker</span>. There was no pausing for photos at any of these meals! But the chili and spicy meatballs stand out in my memory :) Here he is with Ian in his bar, where he also mixes up a mean liquid concoction. I love this photo.</div><div><br /><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Back to the gym for me.... (sigh!)<br /><br /></div><div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00978453942104739735noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810020679882557235.post-59723987863178630582008-08-07T00:59:00.000-07:002008-08-07T01:34:56.246-07:00White CrossesI have just returned home from the launch of a photography exhibition organised by our Jacki Dawson, our Road Safety Co-Ordinator, called "Cross Roads" by John Robinson. (Page 3 of link)<br />All of the photos feature white crosses on the side of the road.<br />I was lucky to have a chance to chat with John before the exhibition, and as you can imagine, after five years of touring with the photos, he had a lot of stories from people who had been to see his work.<br /><br />So I told him about the story of a very close friend of mine who lost someone very close to her in a crash. He honoured my friend by echoing my words during his presentation at the launch, saying that we must remember when seeing the crosses on the roadside that each one of them represents a family who Christmas will never be the same for again, because there will always be someone missing. Someone who should have been there.<br /><br />And for this we are all responsible. Every needless death on the road is a loss to all of us. And that whenever we see one of those white crosses we should ask ourselves, "What can I do to make sure this dosen't happen again?" Whether it means easing off on the gas a bit, checking all your passengers have their seatbelts on, passing on that third drink, or the bravest thing of all - being a passenger and having the balls to ask a driver to slow down!<br /><br />Police, Council, Traffic Controllers, Traffic Engineers and Construction workers - <strong><span style="color:#000000;">there </span>are a lot of people working</strong> <strong>really hard to keep you safe</strong> on the road. I deal with them everyday, and regardless what you think, <strong>when someone dies on our roads, it's not business anymore - they ALL take it personally. </strong><br /><strong></strong><br />But no matter how hard these people work, it all comes down to you being a responsible driver and passenger.Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00978453942104739735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810020679882557235.post-29692888426683089142008-06-04T03:27:00.000-07:002008-06-04T03:42:19.466-07:00A little grace from Hone Tuwhare<strong>Rain</strong><br />I can hear you<br />making small holes<br />in the silence<br />rain<br /><br />If I were deaf<br />the pores of my skin<br />would open to you<br />and shut<br /><br />And I<br />should know you<br />by the lick of you<br />if I were blind<br /><br />the something<br />special smell of you<br />when the sun cakes<br />the ground<br /><br />the steady<br />drum-roll sound<br />you make<br />when the wind drops<br /><br />But if I<br />should not hear<br />smell or feel or see<br />you<br /><br />you would still<br />define me<br />disperse me<br />wash over me<br />rain<br /><br />Hone Tuwhare<br />1922 - 2008Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00978453942104739735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810020679882557235.post-37978391693945875952008-05-26T02:54:00.000-07:002008-05-26T03:05:49.868-07:00The best things about being a non smoker... Part One<strong><span style="color:#ff6666;">I am going to call this Part One because it's only been 6 days and already there's heaps!</span></strong><br /><br />When I spray on my favorite fancy perfume I feel like a lady, not like a warthog pretending to be a lady.<br /><br />Rain is quite beautiful when you can enjoy it from the comfort of your desk<br /><br />My amazing powers of smelling chocolate through multiple layers have returned!<br /><br />My boobies are enormous after all the ice cream I have been eating<br /><br />Knowing that I am loving my body instead of abusing it makes it feel so much nicer<br /><br />I don't get light headed walking up the stairs<br /><br />I have not used my eftpos card for four days in a row<br /><br />I don't have the hassle of extra stops on the way home - I don't need to get anything, I can just go straight home!<br /><br />Where ever I am, what ever I am doing, I am complete and whole within myself and capable of facing any challenge this world presents me. I do not need anything else. <br /><br />:)Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00978453942104739735noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810020679882557235.post-29622967014256892462008-05-24T21:41:00.000-07:002008-05-24T22:18:07.205-07:00The Vest that Hugs you<span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;"><strong><em>ScienceDaily (May 25, 2008)</em> —</strong> <em>Children with autism and ADHD may soon get anxiety relief from a novel “deep-pressure” vest developed by Brian Mullen at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. The vest, which can also be used for adults with mental illness, delivers a “portable hug” called deep pressure touch stimulation (DPTS).</em></span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><em><span style="font-family:arial;">Initial results of a study with students at UMass Amherst who did not have autism or ADHD showed that participants preferred Mullen’s prototype vest, which applies pressure that feels like a firm hug or swaddling, over the current gold standard weighted</span> vest.</em></span><br /><br />I want one!<br />For the first time ever, Max has competition as my preferred fashion source. Imagine how happy you could be in a vest that hugs you, whenever you want, whereever you are, all day!<br /><br />This could be just the start of something amazing... imagine a neck rub scarf! Or a hat that actually fixes your hair! Gym pants that massage your thighs to mobilise cellulite while you exercise!<br /><br />What would be your future product suggestion for Professor Mullen?Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00978453942104739735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810020679882557235.post-66891162599919035712008-05-10T15:27:00.000-07:002008-05-10T15:54:31.390-07:00The world's most perfect sandwichYears of research and experimentation have culminated in the following sandwich, which I believe, is the world's most perfect sandwich:<br /><br />Nothing but the finest, freshest homemade multigrain bread will do. Recipe is below.<br /><br />Spread some mango and ginger or spicy peach chutney on one slice<br />then a couple of slices of manuka smoked ham<br />swiss cheese<br />fresh lettuce<br />slices of tomato<br />sprinkle salt and pepper<br />slices of avocado<br />on the other slice of bread spread some Best Foods mayonnaise<br />pop it on top.<br /><br />Enjoy with a glass of cold orange juice :)<br /><br />Bread recipe:<br /><br />For a 1kg loaf, put in your breadmaker in the order given:<br /><br />370ml water<br />3 tablespoons sunflower oil<br />2 teaspoons salt<br />3 tablespoons sugar<br />375g/2 1/2 cups high grade flour<br />225g/1 1/2 cups wholemeal flour<br />2 tablespoons milk powder<br />1/2 cup bran flakes<br />1/2 cup wheat germ<br />mix of kibbled wheat, sunflower seeds, linseeds, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds - about 1 cup<br />3 teaspoons Edmonds Surebake yeast.<br /><br />Choose the wholemeal setting, medium crust.<br /><br />I encourage you to experiment and critique, and look forward to your feedback.<br /><br />ClaireClairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00978453942104739735noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2810020679882557235.post-91038740884995829082008-04-23T02:56:00.001-07:002008-04-23T03:02:00.348-07:00If you could say one thing to the world...I remember watching "Miss Universe" as a kid and the contestants being asked the question "If you could say one thing to the world, what would it be?" <br />And look! Now everyone can say everything to the world - I'm doing it right now!<br />I have to confess that blogging seems a little self indulgent to me, but I'm an open minded individual so I am going to try it on and see how it feels. If we have the technology, why not use it, right?<br />And we'll see if the world listens :)Clairehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00978453942104739735noreply@blogger.com0