Dreaming...

I'm Dreaming of a White Christmas....

Or perhaps a little less heat down here in Australia

**QUEENSLAND FACES DAYS OF SCORCHING HEAT**
 *Over the next few days maximum temperatures will begin to climb well into the... 40s inland and spread East towards coastal districts by Sunday! Adding extra discomfort high humidity levels along the coast will make it feel even hotter.
*On Sunday Brisbane city is going for a top of 37c, Sunshine Coast 36c, Gold Coast 33c, however head a few kms inland and it gets nasty... Ipswich 41, Gympie 40c , Gatton 41.5c, Darling Downs 40c and Toowoomba 37c, before a cooler change only in the South East on Monday.
*The Western 3/4 of the state are likely to see max temps between 40c and 46c for the next 5 days at least.
 http://www.emergency.qld.gov.au/emq/css/heatwave.asp

Santa Boot Camp

Why oh why can I see some of my merrily military friends applying for jobs here? :)

Merry Christmas to all my friends - stay safe!

Australian wildlife at play!

December 13, 2013: Several black swans have been filmed frolicking just off shore near the Gold Coast, catching waves in and out several times before darting off

Winner - Poppy Contest!

And the winner of the Poppy Key ring is

Cinder Ella

Winning the Poppy coin would mean a lot to me. November 11 holds special significance, my grandfather and great-grandfather fought at Vimy Ridge almost one hundred years ago. I hope to Visit Vimy in 2017 and walk in the trenches. This coin would be a special keepsake for me. Hoping it becomes a reality.

Cinder - please contact me with your mailing address

Poppy Competition reminder

Six days before the competition closes...

http://marionsmeepings.blogspot.com.au/

We shall remember

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning,

We will remember them.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ode_of_Remembrance

In Flanders Fields...

Poppy Key ring competition

Each year I like to commemorate Remembrance Day (11th of November) by having a Poppy Competition.

This year the prize will be a Key Ring

The back bears the inscription RSL - Respecting the Past - Securing a future - Lest we Forget



(RSL = Returned and Services League)

 

 



In order to enter you MUST write a short paragraph on WHY you would like the Poppy Prize (what it means to you etc). And then submit it - along with your name/blogging name - as a comment to this post.


The Rules:-

Must be PG-13! (if you feel that using a rude word is required then bleep it out - let's think of the potential that one day my Mum might read this)

You do NOT need to be a regular reader of this blog to enter (sniffle... but you COULD stick around and read more - just saying)

You can be from anywhere in the world.

Past Contest winners are welcome to enter (The judge is impartial and not me)

 If you win - you will need to supply me with a mailing address. I promise to hold the information safely and never share it beyond my Post Office.

If you leave your entry under the "Anonymous" tag - please be sure to add your name or nickname at the bottom so I can track you down later should you win.

If you find that Blogger won't let you post a message or worse - it disappears into the ether - then email me directly (you can find my email address under my profile)

The Winner will need to contact me by last day of November 2013 at the latest with their mailing address or there will be a redraw.

The Winning comment will be judged on or about the 20th of November

***just in case the whole idea of writing something is wigging you out, I have included some examples on how you could frame your entry***

"I would love to win the Poppy Coin because it reminds me of the service that my *insert name/relative/friend* gave to our country"

"Would be a cool thing to have in my memorabilia cabinet - along with my other Remembrance Day badges"

November? Already?

Whoops - I am so behind with the blogging - so sorry about that.

Just a very quick update as I am due to race off to visit with my parents for lunch.

My New job continues to go well.  Three days a week - permanent part-time and really lovely people to work with.  I think I have been blessed to find this position.

My home renovations are limping along with a bit of a splutter. 
Have just taken possession of another lockable storage cupboard for my carport (it came flatpak of course so yesterday I became my alter-ego of "Assembly Girl" - fastest spanner in the universe!).  I plan to shift things out from the laundry in to the two cupboards so that I can begin the renovations in there.  Plans are for a tiled floor - removal of the old cement double sink to allow a much more compact tub to be installed (I need more bench space so this will help); installation of a proper work bench at one end so I can keep all the tools together and have somewhere sturdy to do leather work and other crafts.
By the time I am done I will have the most sparkly clean and *useful* laundry room on the block! (due to the nature of the apartment building I live in - the laundry room fronts my carport on the ground floor - luckily for me it's right below my apartment so I don't have far to descend to reach it)

So I should be able to keep any "Honey Do's" to a minimum.  Which is good since they are in reality "Dad can you's".   :)

Catch up with you all soon!

We few...

The feast day of Saints Crispin and Crispinian is 25 October

This day is call’d the feast of Crispian.
He that outlives this day, and comes safe home,
Will stand a tip-toe when this day is nam’d,
And rouse him at the name of Crispian.
He that shall live this day, and see old age,
Will yearly on the vigil feast his neighbours,
And say “To-morrow is Saint Crispian.”
Then will he strip his sleeve and show his scars,
And say “These wounds I had on Crispi...an’s day.”
Old men forget; yet all shall be forgot,
But he’ll remember, with advantages,
What feats he did that day. Then shall our names,
Familiar in his mouth as household words-
Harry the King, Bedford and Exeter,
Warwick and Talbot, Salisbury and Gloucester-
Be in their flowing cups freshly rememb’red.
This story shall the good man teach his son;
And Crispin Crispian shall ne’er go by,
From this day to the ending of the world,
But we in it shall be remembered-
We few, we happy few, we band of brothers;
For he to-day that sheds his blood with me
Shall be my brother; be he ne’er so vile,
This day shall gentle his condition;
And gentlemen in England now-a-bed
Shall think themselves accurs’d they were not here,
And hold their manhoods cheap whiles any speaks
That fought with us upon Saint Crispin’s day.

               William Shakespeare's play Henry V in Act IV Scene iii 18-67

Memories!

...Embarrassing Memories!...

I posted this to my facebook page and then thought - Why not extend the embarrassment across the Social Media spectrum?!?

*******************

Did you know... I was once a "Calendar Girl"?

Okay so I was eleven and it's the back page of that year's Girl Guides Calendar  (aka Girl Scouts)... but still - my moment of National Embarrassment lives in posterity!

The things you find as you are desperately searching for a certification required for the new job...

But before the roses comes the storm...

.... a Storm of coughs and sneezes and enough nose goo to lift up Noah's Ark it seems.

I have been trying to stave off a Spring cold for the last few days - using all manner of tried & true methods (over the counter flu & cold tablets, syrups and old fashioned lemon drinks).  My Contract job is a "paid only for time attended" so I just need to suck it up and keep on working away for one more week (6 or 7 days depending on the contract extension in to next weekend).

Today (Sunday) was my first day off all week and giving myself a chance to relax and try to recover seems to have only turned on the nose faucet even more (Sooo SEXI! Not!)

I am confident I can make it to work tomorrow - first stopping off at an early opening Chemist (Drug Store for those readers over the pond) and get more pills for "stop the flow NOW dammit" cure.  I'm not so confident that they won't try to send me home (despite all my efforts at distance and careful covered coughing I worry I have infected the rest of my team there).

More sadly I have had to pull out of a "catch up and meet" with Julie of Jigsaw's Thoughts - who will be in town only for a few days.  So sorry Julie :/   [when I finally manage to complete my online degree from ECU I will be over your way for graduation.. in 201mumble. Rain check till then?]

Things are coming up Roses!

I heard tonight that I have been successful with the Library job I applied for last month.

Start date early October.

Life is looking a lot less depressing now - and my bank account will rejoice! (it's rejoicing even now as I am in the 2nd week of a 3 week job contract with the Australian Electoral Commission)

Next thing I should possibly do is begin to believe that I might still find lasting love and companionship.... might as well go for broke with the wishing! :)

Pax
[the once again gainfully employed]

Update on adventuring

Interview was successfully attended even if I did look a bit like a super klutzy. (knee was sports taped to a far-thee-well and then constriction bandage added on top. Pain meds were taken).  I managed well enough with my balance that I only took one crutch for support (leaving me one hand to greet with).  The post interview "walk three blocks to catch a bus" may have proved to be a foolish plan but less $$ than another taxi cab ride.

And I think I did a fairly good showing.  They were impressed that I had managed to make the interview even after an accident - and I answered all their questions to the best of my ability (we tangented off topic a few times as I mentioned other facets that I could see useful for their library role). 

I should find out in a week or two - after their HR section finalises the short short list and checks all references and qualifications.  I would like this job - I can see me being able to make a difference to how they run their one person library; and would be able to turn it in to a necessary and exciting factor for their Business use. (sorry... next I'll be saying "proactive" and "synergy" and you can all pelt me with old socks)

And in other work news - on the 7th of September I begin my three week contract with a Federal government department.  Hopefully I'm off crutches by then (should be - my knee is un-ballooning nicely and the pulled and torn muscles should be healing well by then).

So Yes... my bank account is about to be happily receiving *INPUT* which, with luck, will become a constant and regular thing again (even if I don't succeed with the Library position, I will remain on the Employment Agencies books as a Trusted Temp so some work might come my way through there).

Shelving Plan Z then for the duration (that's the one that goes "travel to Texas and find a blind, senile gazillion-aire to marry and make blissfully happy".  But let's not calculate the odds on that one :D)**

Pax

**really not that mercenary... I'd no doubt end up just being his friend and advocate - oh and possibly vetting the actual real gold-diggers circling like sharks

Pax has an adventure!

Currently waiting waiting waiting at the Hospital  Emergency Dept to be seen

Hopefully they can un-dislocate my kneecap, issue me effective pain meds and crutches and let me home at a reasonable hour

Oh! Should I mention I have the all important job interview *tomorrow*  and that my 3 weeks of contract work (requiring standing and moving) starts on the 7th of Sept?

[feeling like the Universe is conspiring against me]

UPDATE!!

Medical verdict is - knee cap did dislocate when I wrenched it but quick application of ice and compression by the Museum First Aid officer helped it pop back in by the time the ambulance got me to the hospital.

Currently I have only pulled muscles and some torn ligaments to recover from. ...I have some pain meds and crutches and a compression bandage applied.

Physio said he could see no problem with me making my interview tomorrow - so long as I take it slow and carefully. He thinks the swelling and pulled muscles etc should have calmed down in a week. (Interning Doctor was much more pessimistic but I plan to ignore most of that... *fingers in ears la la la la*)

More Adventures of the USA Flat Soldiers

Last week our Heroes and Shero were spotted at the Queensland Exhibition (aka our State Fair)

They looked to be having a great deal of fun!

They found the Pirates Revenge Water ride

Watched the Dairy Cow judging

Stopped by the Australian themed garden display

Failed to be pecked by Kookaburra statues

And ended their day at the Funnel Cake stall

Later in the week they were spotted at the Queensland Museum...

"Swimming" with the Fishes at the Great Barrier Reef exhibit

Visiting the Muttaburrasaurus langdoni
 

Much fun was had by all (especially the curious by-standers who would engage me in chat with the opening line of "What ever are you doing?".  It's a good opportunity to mention to them that Troop Support programs exist all around the globe!)

Next week.... more adventures of the Flat and Funny.... STAY TUNED!

News Flash! USA Soldiers spied at Medieval event

well... okay so it's Flat Soldiers (a modern-day Troop Support version of the Flat Stanley).  The Goal is for volunteers to print off the Flat Soldier picture and photograph them on adventures around your home town.  Since I'm one of the SA Downunders' - my photos will be just a wee bit "Exotic" to the average American eye (I hope! :D).  The Photos are then whizzed back to the Soldier's individual Angels for sending on (or in the case of one really clever Angel - added to a photo album titled "What I really did on my last Tour!")

So this last weekend - my FS's joined me on an adventure. My Medieval friends (Society of Creative Anachronism) and I had agreed to travel up the Queensland hinterlands to Nanango to help one of our newer households hold their first event at the local Art Gallery's "Medieval Fair Day"

There were Tourneys and Vikings and Tempting Fudge sellers (who had cunningly added their wares to a pull along cart so they could entice us all with movable goodies)

End of Bout 1 - the defeated on the ground and Miss FS cheering on the victor!)

Beginning of Bout 2

 

The Author.... attempting to look demure!

All five FS's honing in on the static photo display

Tomorrow or Tuesday the Flat Troopers and I will be off to the local State Fair (known locally as the Queensland Royal Exhibition - and by the locals as the "EKKA").  I am hoping for some good shots with fairy floss; and prize winning sheep etc.  [Stand by for the News reports of "Strange woman stampeded by Sheep at Local Faire" :D

Later in the week they will also accompany me to my Museum job.  The Museum has a "life on the reef" exhibit at the moment - swimming with Nemo would be a good photo I think!

 

Mummy's and Romans Oh My!

A few weeks back I found myself on the campus of the University of Queensland.  I was there for a job interview (unsuccessful I'm afraid) and decided to stop by the Antiquities Museum in a bid to seek inner-calm prior to the interview

It's really a smashing place Gromit!

The entrance to the museum is located off the Great Court - in the Michie Building

And there are some lovely items on display!

They even had a "Name our Mummy" competition running when I was there...

If you would like to know more about the Antiquities Museum then click on the LINKY

Poor Nemo

So did "someone" discover that Nemo is really a socialist?

The US military has agreed to retrieve four unarmed bombs it dropped on the Great Barrier Reef during a training exercise that didn't go to plan.

US warplanes were forced to drop the bombs after they ran dangerously low on fuel during a problem-plagued operation in central Queensland earlier this month.

The planes were unable to drop the ordnance where they had intended because civilian vessels had wandered into the pre-approved drop zone.

Instead, they were let go in about 50 to 60 metres of water inside the boundaries of the Great Barrier Reef marine park. [more of the story HERE ]

[note. I hold no rights to these pictures and hope that the Big Mouse
squad does not attempt to "Pluto" me in the night]

Same old Same old

Well I had hoped to be able to dazzle you all with my employability but sadly I failed to make the final cut (making the interview list of 7 out of those 100+ applicants I can do... actually score the job - just can't nail it)

So rather than depress you all, let's have a sing-along

USS Bonhomme Richard has arrived in town

I have to say I've not seen as many Polite and Friendly YOUNG (ohhh so young to my eyes - 20's to 24's I would guess) service persons in quite a long time.

Of course they are all in mufti - since the wearing of uniform in foreign ports is not allowed for safety reasons - but their general military bearing, good manners, great haircuts, and possibly the accents give them away.

Had I been better organised I'd have asked any of my fellow Soldiers' Angels troop supporters if any of their lads or lasses would be in town - and then would have treated them for a day out at the Koala Sanctuary.  Next time Gromit Next time!

http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/us-navy-docks-in-brisbane-20130709-2pnyn.html

Pax's projects

It's been a while since a real post occurred - sorry about that folks!

This month has seen me still looking for a paying job. I have two really good jobs in my sights - applications are in and I am just hoping to hear that I have made the interview short list (fingers crossed).  Both are Library jobs.

On the 6th of July I begin my Mentored training for Justice of the Peace.  My first exposure to "the public" seeking the witnessing of documents and statements sworn.  So very hoping I don't make an ass of myself,

My volunteer job at the State Museum Library is continuing to keep me sane. It's just so nice to be appreciated for my work skills and knowledge!  Sadly no chance of a job opening there

At home projects -
I have a new bathroom vanity! Let me walk you through the installation process in pictures:-

The original vanity - almost 50 years old and falling apart from years of water damage



Once the old was removed - my Dad cemented in the void that was left to
level up the floor



New base cabinet installed and attached to the back wall

Sink top installed; all plumbing lines connected and it's good-to-go!

Many thanks to my Dad and eldest brother for the installation :).  Now I need to repaint the walls and wooden cupboards and it will be all done


In other news.... I am about to start a major embroidery project [skip this bit if you aren't in to craft!]


My new winter-weight medieval cloak requires some "pretty-fying" so I have been working on a sampler for colours and stitch styles.  I think I'm happy with most of it

The Dark brown borders are couched (meaning raised by stitching over a thicker thread) and will give stabilisation to the wool edges.  The inner pattern will be a vine & leaf design.  I like the taupe shade for the vine; and will probably go with the lighter green shade for the leaves as it stands out better from the background fabric.

I will be completing the sewing in stages (starting with couching closest to the edge) so that I can wear the cloak whilst it's still under construction. Should keep me occupied and off the street!

And in troop support...  my current adoptee "M" is likely to be home by Thanksgiving (all going well).  He is a lovely young man - dedicated to his country, his job and his family.  Snack packs and his favourite sporting team decals have recently been sent [for the munching and the "making things feel a bit more home like"], and I should look to see what other DVD's he might like to watch (we share a fondness for "Finding Nemo" so I have sent a copy of that one already)


100percent

Charlie is me darlin'!

That's Charlie Sherpa from over at Red Bull Rising blog

Earlier this year I sent him the news that the television show China Beach would finally be released on DVD.  His sharp eagle eyes noticed a problem with their pre-publication box art work and in gratitude the publishing company supplied a few sets in partial consideration for otherwise unpaid technical-consulting services rendered.  [you might recall his 'Boonie's Haiku Contest' run back in February 2013 where the winner received one set]

Although I am not sure I deserve it (but good luck making me give it back! :D) - Young Charlie sent me the second set.

The box arrived yesterday and included the DVD box set AND *EXTRAS* Yay!!!!!

An matchbox M-ATV of my very own (ask Charlie about his love of ATV's!); a batch of postcards from Iowa and the Army; and a very sweet Army Mule toy.

Charlie writes about the mule...

This particular Army mule has travelled around the world with me a couple of times. The mule is a U.S. Army and U.S Military Academy mascot. (The U.S. Air Force gets "Fighting Falcons"; the Marines are "Devil Dogs." We get mules?) Mules have also been used in the war in Afghanistan. I also figured he'd make a potential drinking-buddy for the stuffed camel I for which remember you once doing a naming contest on your blog. In fact, I seem to recall that I suggested the camel be named "Boonie," in part after the character in "China Beach."

 

Little Muley requires a proper name, so stand by for a "Name that Mule" competition later in the year  [and yes - it's a follow on from the "Name That Camel" competition back in 2011]

 

Thank you Charlie - your kindness has really made my week, month and Year [it's been a tough one lately downunder].

 

Pax

off to watch more China Beach despite the Cat's disapproval!

 

 

R U OK?

R U OK = Are you Okay - a national day held in September to 'support those struggling with life' (website HERE)

I have just been reading an article in the New York Times on the recent rise in suicides in the military

 

Baffling Rise in Suicides Plagues the U.S. Military

 

I know that some of my former Troop-Support Adoptees follow my blog (or have me friended on Facebook) and I really want you to know that if you need someone to talk to - to vent at; to rant about things to - or in the extreme cases - a place to come stay at for a short while* - then I am here for you.

 

Don't keep the pain inside - staying quiet and stoic are the worst things to do.

 

Always your Angel,

Pax

 

*staying-space is a single mattress on the lounge-room floor - dealing with my cat and my quirky nature. You will also need a ticket to Australia! [it's a one bedroom mini-apartment so not being claustrophobic would help too :D]

Ausmerica the Bravely Suntanned?

News just in - White House petition calls for merger of United States, Australia, to form 'Ameristralia'

Read more:  HERE

*blink blink*

Perhaps it's just some right-wing Looney from California who is jealous of our actually having a  National budget?

May Post

May has arrived - and the lovely Autumn weather of Brisbane is glorious to behold.  Cool but sunny and no rain - wonderful.

"Received" an early birthday "gift" today (my birthday is the 4th) - trip to the dentist for what I had hoped was simply a lost filling.  Turned out to be a crack through the tooth and so I now have one less tooth for the brushing (recovery will take a few days and I am currently very propped up by the pharmacy-grade pain meds). It was my upper right back tooth so it's loss won't interfere too much with my life.

In other actually GOOD news - I have a job interview on Monday for a Library Assistant's position.  So if you can spare some good thoughts - please wing them my way.

Oh and I have heard from my new Soldier's Angel adoptee.  Mike is a clever, articulate and dedicated member of the USA Army.  He's has a wonderfully good sense of humour and we have been exchanging emails since I adopted him.  So very glad I have 'met' him [so far a batch of goodies have been sent off to him - he's received the small batch of Aussie cookies & candy (no no musk stick - I am being nice!) and a plush kangaroo toy he has named "Jack"; and I sent him a copy of the movie "Finding Nemo" (we have been joking about that since my introductory email explaining that I live "half way between the Reef and Wallaby Way Syd-e-ney").  Girl Scout cookies are also on their way to him].  He is very much a ray of sunshine in my life - making all the uncertainties of lack-of-job fade away whenever I chat with him. So very glad I found Soldiers Angels five years ago (almost to the day actually - it was my "Pay it forward" Birthday gift to myself five years ago and never once regretted.)

Now to get over the extraction and be all smiles come Saturday.  I am having lunch with my Parents and haven't wanted to worry them,  Wish me a speedy recovery! :)

edited to add - lol someone just asked me if I have a "wish list' for my birthday.  I do but I don't expect any gifts - your all-abiding love and support are all I need [but if that's just tooo freaky to contemplate - here's my amazon link - http://amzn.com/w/1EUHNLL1YFLO ]

ANZAC DAY - Lest we forget

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
...
We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie,
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae

 

(I owneth not the copyright to this picture)

 

Super important travel information

Wow! I had never really stopped to think about where one "goes" when overseas - many of these places I would have thought to have more modern sewerage systems like in Australia, USA & Great Britain

For an interesting read for travellers - go read the "WHERE DO I PUT THE PAPER" website

New Book out!

My Friend and fellow Blogger - Momma Fargo - has just written her first ever book.

It is now available at Amazon.com in Printed format; and will be available in Ebook format shortly - and should be available for the Nook in a few weeks (I believe)

Go read about it HERE

I helped with some of the editing so I'm not entirely unbiased :D - I found it to be a mix of very moving tales from Momma's police days; and some very sage (and sometimes funny) wisdom on just what is wrong with today's youth and how you and I (as THE PARENT - THE ADULT - SOCIETY) can help to fix it all.

During the edits I alternated between crying over the sad sad truths about how sexual predators harm their child victims; and laughing over the other tales.  Most assuredly a roller-coaster ride!

So go find a copy and read read read!

Pax
[a true believer in the written word!]

The War to End all Wars...

... still bringing them home almost 100 years later

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-04-11/fromelles-diggers-identified/4623996

The remains of another five Australians killed during the Battle of Fromelles in World War I have been identified.

 

The Battle of Fromelles was... the bloodiest 24 hours in Australia's military history, with over 5,500 diggers killed or wounded.

 

The recently identified soldiers were among 250 Australian and British soldiers who were recovered from a mass burial site at Pheasant Wood in France.

 

The soldiers' bodies were recovered in 2009 and reburied in the Fromelles Military Cemetery the following year.

 

There are now 124 Australians who have been identified from the site.

 

Lest we forget....

 

April news

Well I have had word that my Adopted Marine (from Soldiers' Angels) has gone Stop Mail as of the 1st of April (I found out on the 6th... last parcel of beef jerky was ordered & shipped 3rd.. hope it makes it to him!).   With Luck Marine Sgt D will be home in a month or so - and hopefully as far away from the "Korean Situation" as possible [he is currently on a Ship "Somewhere on the Seas"]

Lovely young Man and I wish him the best :)

My Email-Pal (EPal) soldier has also been in touch recently and is well and hopefully heading home in a few months.  She is an amazing person - definitely one of my heroes!

In other news - Previous Adopted Soldier (USA Army) E has married the love of his life.  So very happy for them!!

And Previous Adopted Soldier (USA Army) JJ is once again deployed to the "Exciting Middle East".  He's now my "Unofficial Adoptee" in that I send him treats when I can afford (or more likely when I see something that I just KNOW he'd enjoy - like the recent parcel of Tim Tams [2 thumbs up!] and the Easter basket of yummies.  All shared with his team :)

I still need to send out a card for the SA's LWT (Letter Writing Team).  I get one name a month and it's more of a "Hi! Hello! Hope you hear from your Adopting Angel soon" communication - just to let the recipient know that their application for Adoption has been received and will be actioned soon.  I have "met" some lovely folk from this - wonderful souls all.

Have been considering signing up for another "Official Adoption".  Probably should do a budget up first (one to two parcels a month and letters/cards required weekly can add up).  Giving Support makes me Happy and feel useful so I think that it's good for my Mental Health even if it's a bit of a strain on my (currently) unemployed pocket.

In "At Home" news - Dentist trip today.  $$$$ but I will get to keep the tooth so worth the dollars spent.  Tomorrow I have another day at my Volunteer Library job - which will be enjoyable (great project + lovely people to work with = WIN!)  Not a bad way to spend my time whilst sending out more job applications :)

Pax loves a good Flash Mob

For those not in the know, I do medieval re-enactment (yes... with the costumes and all)

Would LOVE to be a part of something like THIS one day

Easter Tidings of Bacon unto you all

Isn't it amazing what you can find on the internet!

The Blogger at Atomic Shrimp has created a wonderful addition to the Festive Bacon list

http://www.atomicshrimp.com/st/content/bacon_easter_egg

Excuse me as I head out to buy more bacon :D

Pax and March

Sorry - it's been rather busy here lately and I'm behind with the old blogging.

In the "Good news" realm - I started a volunteer position with my State Museum's Library last week. Really interesting work and I like the people I am working with.  Back again this week (one day a week to start with - am hoping to move that to two days a week when possible so I can get this project conquered!)

In real paying work news - nothing so far.  Still looking.

In "hobby" news - I spent last Saturday working in the kitchen for a medieval feast.  14 hours of work and boy was my body wreaked by the end of that.  Sunday I spent trying to remember not to groan too loudly as I attempted to move any muscles  [and yes - full on kitchen work with very few breaks can be really exhausting!].  I had a great time too!  (no photos as the only one taken of me is from a weird angle - making me look stranger than usual ;)

In University course news - I am finally beginning to make sense of the course I am doing this semester (Systems and Database Design).  I feared that I had a terminal case of the "Dumbs" so am pleased that I am finally working it out logically in my mind.

And in Blog-o-sphere news - if you haven't yet entered the Haiku competition over at Red Bull Rising you have one week left before it closes.  Prizes are VERY nice indeed (love love love the Doctrine Man cup!)

Oh and in milsupport - my adopted Marine should be receiving a small basket of Easter goodies soon.  Hope he likes it! :)

Red Bull Blogger Haiku Competition

My friend and Blogger extraordinaire - Charlie Sherpa - is running a Haiku competition.

The Prizes are VERY nice indeed!

Pax
[currently tormenting the Cat with extremely bad poetry ideas]

Pax and competition prizes

New blog Competition will be held shortly - once  I sort out the prize I wish to bestow upon the winner.

Sadly, as much as I like you all, the prize will not be the following (too $$$ for my unemployed pocket to bear)

but you can buy one for yourself HERE

Hmm... the military teddy bears seem a bit too twee....   and sadly I would never get away with trying to ship the mini swords (the Australian and USA postal services seem a bit less than excited about shipping those sorts of things)

Oh Look!  They are now listing "Field Rations" and other freeze dried foods too...
http://www.militaryshop.com.au/catalogue/displayProducts/lineId/3551.html

And all the equipment for eating and heating.  [although I notice that the eating utensils are still a metal based product.  One day I may blog about the downrange friend for whom I found some sturdy plastic ware for - all very sad that the taste of metal in his mouth from standard issue cutlery would trigger PTSD attacks.]

Oh - they do have cuff links.  Is that of any interest to the readers?

Or I guess I could just buy some more of their nifty hats (offered once before as a prize.... I *think* Coffeypot ended up with one (it's late here and the brain is snoozing a bit)

There are also the usual extra bling bits of keyrings and the like....

Any suggestions from the Readers?  Just remember that it has to be affordable enough for me to acquire two of (so that any victim of the "Caption this photo" games gets one as way of apology) AND needs to be of small to middling size for International posting.

Pax is....

....looking for - Amanda Hugginkiss

(think about it)

And a Happy Valentines to the rest of you

Pax

WD-40 - Greatest invention since Duct Tape?

I found the following online - sorry not sure who to attribute it to (please advise if you are the author and I will add credits)

 

According to a few other online sources some of the following facts have been disputed (not made of Fish Oil say a few; not a cure for arthritis (however other folks vouch that it works from the). Anyway - read on and take notes [I for one am going to try it on the spotty glass shower door next cleaning day]

 

 

 

DID YOU KNOW?
What IS The Main Ingredient of WD-40?
Before you read to the end, does anybody know what the main ingredient of WD-40?
No Cheating.....

... WD-40 ~ Who knew!

I had a neighbor who bought a new pickup.
I got up very early one Sunday morning and saw that someone had spray painted red all around the sides of this beige truck (for some unknown reason).
I went over, woke him up, and told him the bad news.
He was very upset and was trying to figure out what to do....
probably nothing until Monday morning, since nothing was open.
Another neighbor came out and told him to get his WD-40 and clean it off.
It removed the unwanted paint beautifully and did not harm his paint job that was on the truck. I was impressed!

WD-40 who knew?
"Water Displacement #40".
The product began from a search for a rust preventative solvent and degreaser to protect missile parts.
WD-40 was created in 1953, by three technicians at the San Diego Rocket Chemical Company.
Its name comes from the project that was to find a 'Water Displacement' Compound.
They were finally successful for a formulation, with their fortieth attempt, thus WD-40.
The 'Convair Company' bought it in bulk to protect their atlas missile parts.
Ken East (one of the original founders) says there is nothing in WD-40 that would hurt you.
When you read the 'shower door' part, try it.
It's the first thing that has ever cleaned that spotty shower door.
If yours is plastic, it works just as well as on glass.
It's a miracle!
Then try it on your stovetop.
It's now shinier than it's ever been.
You'll be amazed.


WD-40 Uses:
1. Protects silver from tarnishing.
2. Removes road tar and grime from cars.
3. Cleans and lubricates guitar strings.
4. Gives floor that 'just-waxed' sheen without making them slippery.
5. Keeps the flies off of Cows, Horses, and other Farm Critters, as well. (Ya gotta love this one!!!)
6. Restores and cleans chalkboards.
7. Removes lipstick stains.
8. Loosens stubborn zippers.
9. Untangles jewelry chains.
10. Removes stains from stainless steel sinks.
11. Removes dirt and grime from the barbecue grill.
12. Keeps ceramic / terracotta garden pots from oxidizing.
13. Removes tomato stains from clothing.
14. Keeps glass shower doors free of water spots.
15. Camouflages scratches in ceramic and marble floors.
16. Keeps scissors working smoothly.
17. Lubricates noisy door hinges on both home and vehicles doors.
18. It removes that nasty tar and scuff marks from the kitchen flooring.
It doesn't seem to harm the finish and you won't have to scrub nearly as hard to get them off.
Just remember to open some windows if you have a lot of marks.
19. Remove those nasty Bug guts that will eat away the finish on your car if not removed quickly!
20. Gives a children's playground gym slide a shine for a super fast slide.
21. Lubricates gearshift and mower deck lever for ease of handling on riding mowers...
22. Rids kids rocking chair and swings of squeaky noises.
23. Lubricates tracks in sticking home windows and makes them easier to open.
24. Spraying an umbrella stem makes it easier to open and close.
25. Restores and cleans padded leather dashboards in vehicles, as well as vinyl bumpers.
26. Restores and cleans roof racks on vehicles.
27. Lubricates and stops squeaks in electric fans.
28. Lubricates wheel sprockets on tricycles, wagons, and bicycles for easy handling.
29. Lubricates fan belts on washers and dryers and keeps them running smoothly.
30. Keeps rust from forming on saws and saw blades, and other tools.
31. Removes grease splatters from stovetops.
32. Keeps bathroom mirror from fogging.
33. Lubricates prosthetic limbs.
34. Keeps pigeons off the balcony (they hate the smell).
35. Removes all traces of duct tape.
36. Folks even spray it on their arms, hands, and knees to relieve arthritis pain.
37. Florida's favorite use is: 'cleans and removes love bugs from grills and bumpers.'
38. The favorite use in the state of New York, it protects the Statue of Liberty from the elements.
39. WD-40 attracts fish. Spray a little on live bait or lures and you will be catching the big one in no time. Also, it's a lot cheaper than the chemical attractants that are made for just that purpose.
Keep in mind though, using some chemical laced baits or lures for fishing are not allowed in some states.
40. Use it for fire ant bites. It takes the sting away immediately and stops the itch.
41. It is great for removing crayon from walls. Spray it on the marks and wipe with a clean rag.
42. Also, if you've discovered that your teenage daughter has washed and dried a tube of lipstick with a load of laundry, saturate the lipstick spots with WD-40 and rewash. Presto! The lipstick is gone!
43. If you spray it inside a wet distributor cap, it will displace the moisture, allowing the engine to start.

P.S.
As for that Basic, Main Ingredient.......
Well.... it's FISH OIL....
Who would have guessed ? ? ?

Pax and floods

So you might have heard that we have been having some wild weather over here in Australia....

"ex"-cyclone Oswald has spent the last few days creating merry havoc on the Eastern Seaboard as it swept down the coast.

We have had immense amounts of rain; huge winds and flooding.

Photos of some of the areas HERE

My place is dry and undamaged by the rain or wind - however some of my friends are not so lucky.  The Rivers are still rising as I type and we are unsure if their homes will be flooded out again (many of the same homes went under in 2011 which was listed as "once in 100 years flood").

And in other parts of Australia bush fires still rage...   Ahhh Australia - Beautiful one day, Deadly the next....

Come on over and visit!

Pax and pinking the Marines

I like to think of myself as "Not Evil - just easily Lead"

America's First Sgt Major... "Just saw this in my Supply office: "No Marine! No!"

Pax's offhand comment on photo... "So true... he must be punished.... (digs out the musk sticks and the postal boxes)"

One thing lead to another which lead to an address.. with the results being -

I wasn't *utterly* heartless and made sure the parcel also contained one pack of Tim Tams and some Caramello Koalas... 

So Marine Cpl Foster - where ever you may be - apologies from Downunder.

Can I send you something else to take the Pink from your memory?  Perhaps an Apocalypse Kitten? (I hear they are all the rage in certain Marine Households!)

 

 

For more adventures with Marines and Musk Stick Lollies - check out A1SM's posting on an earlier taste test adventure

Pax and plants

At home news...

In the hopes that I can establish a small herb garden on my balcony (and break the "Curse of the Black Thumb" that I seem to have for plants) I have begun a small "Green Project"

Day 3 after planting.
Nasturtium's in the top pot; basil and mint in the bottom

Oh and in case you marvel at how fast those two plants on the bottom are growing - sorry to admit that I got those two from the local market - already slightly grown.  The top pot - now that one is my gardening foo at work (from small seeds great things will come... and possibly be named "Audrey" )

Day 15 of the experiment and so far so good... even the current summer heat wave hitting our area hasn't (yet) caused any problems...

Milsupporting update.  My Official adoptee - lovely Sgt of the Marines - received the parcel of jerky that I sent earlier in the month.  He writes that he shared it with his team :).

There is a Valentine's Day parcel yet to reach him - a box of Old-fashioned V day sweets (according to the Amazon.com sales blurb at least).  Not sure if any of those small candy message hearts are enclosed but if they are - hope he's careful! :D

No word lately from the Unofficial Soldier adoptee in A'stan - Message received just after New Years that he loved the Christmas stuff.  No word since. I really hope he's okay!

Wish I could adopt another to virtual "hug, and pat and call him George" but have told myself that I must remain at one official only until I have a new job.  At least at one I can afford to keep up the level of monthly troop treats and not worry (too much) about my bank balance.  Sgt A is deployed until June so I still have some fun things on the list left to send him :)

*Pax is Plotting*

Quick update

The Rumours of my kidnapping by Clowns were sadly exaggerated*

However due to Bloggers new format changes I am unable to upload any photos without installing the evil and annoying Google Chrome on my computer (yeah.. no thanks) so until they fix/reverse or give me a better work around option I have a few posts that will be "on hold" for now.

Insert mental picture here - a lovely scenic shot of Heat wave affected Australia

(that's the burning bit at the other side of the globe from most of you)

 

 

In other news - still no job. Another application has just been sent off.  It's rather depressing to realise that in this day and age of digital communication that "must be able to use a telephone" is basic for just about any job on offer (even if they don't ever intend for you to be allowed to use the phone - you still have to have the ability).  Whatever happened to that Government Mandated "Disability Quota" system I wonder?

 

 

*I should point out that I consider Clowns to be evil and creepy so they are more feared than your average politician holding candy

Happy New Year!

And welcome to 2013!

Things I am grateful for...

• My Mum is still with us - fighting the good fight against the dreaded Cancer.  She has her good and bad days but accepts every day as a Blessing.

• My Family - both the near and far.  Love and Pride for them all

• My Friends - both near and far (up close and electronic).  Could not get through the days without your support! (and snarky comments - you KNOW who I mean :D)

• My Faith.  Although I am not a Church goer I believe in God, and his Angels, and his son Jesus Christ (I also believe that there are many paths to Heaven and so long as YOUR faith believes in Kindness and Care of it's young, old & vulnerable - you're okay with me!)

• My Life.  I have my ups and downs - my good and bad days BUT I am alive, mostly healthy, have my wits and mobility; and in a 1000 little ways am so much better off than many.  I certainly can not complain!

Things I would like to achieve in 2013

• A New Job.  One where I am valued for my ethics, work ability and determination to Get It Done.  Surely there is one out there somewhere for me?

• Slightly less health issues

• A cure for Cancer  (got to hope!)

• Love.   I haven't given up on the idea that I do deserve someone who loves and respects me.  (an ability to overlook or adore my quirky nature would help ;D).  Applications accepted at the sign of the Dexter-pawed Fox

• That I rock my University classes!  (I am confident I can do this!)

• That my Adopted Soldiers - both official, Unofficial and those I acquire via the Cup of Joe Coffee penfriend program or Letter writing team - stay safe, stay well and return home quickly to their families.  Prayers for them all!