Low c - cultural Exchange

Over the last few weeks there has been some cultural exchange going on at work. One of my colleagues is here from America, and she was saying the other day that she had never heard sprinkles called 100s and 1000s.

This conversation led to a discussion of fairy bread and freckles. She was intrigued by the idea of fairy bread particularly, and myself and the rest of the aussies, recounted stories of countless birthday parties that included fairy bread. I decided to introduce her to the unique flavour experience of fairy bread the next day, and also bought her a packet of freckles.

Imagine my surprise when I turned up at work yesterday to be greeted by a packet of fairy pretzels. What is a fairy pretzel I hear you ask. My colleague had turned a packet of ordinary pretzels into fairy pretzels in honour of fairy bread and freckles.

Check them out! They are delicious. I couldn't believe that someone would go to the trouble of dipping pretzels in chocolate, then in 100s and 1000s! So sweet!!!

We had a lot of fun with them yesterday. It really made my birthday at work. I told her to get straight onto marketing them!!

I love silliness and laughter at work. I find it energising, helps to make the day pass and breaks up the sometimes very serious nature of my work. Anyway, we have had a lot of fun at work lately with food and also with the pronunciation of words.... How do you say squirrel??

On Birthdays and other things

Well It's my birthday. A very quiet one for me this year. Unlike a few years ago!

Tinniegirl is not home tonight as she is looking after her mumsy who has had a day procedure today, so I am alone. It has not been bad, I have been on the phone for about 2 hours fielding birthday calls, which has been lovely.

I think birthdays can be interesting times. Another year over, unknown adventures ahead. It's a time to choose whether you think back on what has been or look to what might be. This year for me, I am doing a bit of both. I have chronic fatigue syndrome, and this has been a watershed year for me in terms of my health. Earlier this year, I was becoming increasingly desperate trying to manage my illness. I was lucky enough to come across a fantastic man who I believe saved my life, my relationship and my job. The rehab program that I have undertaken since April this year has changed my life! Last week I rode my bike to work and then home again. It was something that I could not have even thought about doing 6 months ago. I can look back with pride to see how far I have come in a short time. 

I look forward as well to a future. I could not see a way forward 6 months ago, now I can again begin to realise my dreams. I will return to study next year, and get on with completing my PhD. I will be returning to playing guitar with Concordia, I am able to consider travelling again, and really I will be able to achieve whatever I choose. This is a great year.

Happy Birthday to me!!! Here's to many more!

Pictures of the day

Mind Mapping

Have you heard of mind mapping?

A friend of mine recently told me about mind mapping and how it had helped her with organising her studying.

While I am currently on a leave of absence from my studies to concentrate on improving my health, I bought this book the other day. I am feeling heaps better and thinking a lot about getting back to study. This seemed like a good way to begin, after all what harm can it do to organise my brain?

I have read The Brain that Changes Itself,  so I know about the possibilities of my brain, but sometimes it is hard to believe my brain is capable of the things I read about!!! 

I approach my new challenge with an open mind (it's kind of like hitting the open road and seeing where the wind takes you!). Mind Mapping here I come - I'll let you know how it goes!

Sesame Street: Will.i.am's Song "What I Am"

I was a fan of sesame street growing up, still love Elmo, and I also like the Black Eyed Peas, so I think this is fab! Check it out.

Self Portrait

Today I'm joining in self portrait day for Blogtoberfest. 

 

This is the first self portrait I took with my new camera. I love taking these shots!

Here I am again on the beach at Port Douglas recently, and

 

and here is one of Tinniegirl and my good self a few years ago!

Another Lazy Sunday

What's the best way to spend a sunny Sunday?

Sitting in a cafe, late morning on a sunny Sunday

Watching the world go by.

Maybe some shopping, a swim and then some reading in the backyard.

Perfect!

Does anyone else think it's cool that the date is 10/10/10!!?