For Mr Grump

moar funny pictures

If you saw our gardens you would understand....

Now I know where they come from!

I have been wondering where these funny pics have been popping up from, now I know. Thanks Katrijn. Just reminds me that I want a cat in the house again - they are so bloody entertaining.


moar funny pictures

Now, I love Christmas and have been poking the mystery present from Mr Grump (the other two I know about so no poking) but I do make this face internally when I think of the crowds, emotional upheaval it causes for children in families that don't have money or don't care about them.
So, I pray for those children who need love, want nothing more than a hug and that they find solace in someone who cares for them.

2 days to Christmas and 3 days until the mother in law comes to visit! (FOR FIVE DAYS)

13 years and counting

Today is our anniversary of the first time we were together and it has been a lovely day with a reflective lunch at our favourite cafe, we have been retrospective and loving towards each other all day. Mr Grump has grown into a man that is loving, loyal, intelligent, strong and sensitive - a perfect foil for my erratic "do everything at once-ness' he has had his lesson to learn particularly regarding his father and the emotional baggage that mental illness in a parent brings.
He can give me the shits at times, but it is a passing fancy and overall we are pretty into each other and he is my best friend.

I have been on Practicum for the past 5 weeks and what it has shown is how far I have come and that I don't want to go back to Uni for another year of B.S. I was teaching from Day 1 at the small school (only 15 kids) and I have had some very interesting characters to teach - a diabetic with undiagnosed learning difficulties (possibly Aspergers) 2 ADHD kids, one child whose parent was murdered by the other parent (pretty well adjust all things considered). I have seen the progression from I need to learn more on Prac to what I need to learn is from actually teaching.

On other news, I'm going to be a Aunty and a sister in law- ye gods! It has been an eventful year with the loss of furry kids, Miss K and Mr L being engaged and parents in a few months to Radburne heading in a new direction, to starting the drugs again and getting my whole cycle started again - (its working - just need to practice a bit more).

I would have liked to be the first one to have the babies for the family but life is not that straightforward for us but having Miss K and Mr L having the first grandchild it is good and takes off the pressure I have placed myself under - I don't if was an obligatory sense of family loyalty or the maternal urge I have had since I met Mr Grump.

Anyway, we have finished Christmas shopping this weekend (we went hard and we went fast!) and now the tree is up and the lights will be going up after I post this. This week is a doddle at school - events, not real teaching...

It's been a while

Uni has been too much this semester and it's telling in how I operate in the real world. I don't want to go anywhere or do anything.
I am ignoring this feeling and I have just come back from Sydney and a 60th birthday party of Mr Grump's best friends' mother. It was fun, we got drunk, woke up early the next day feeling slightly seedy and had a wonderful breakfast followed then by a visit to Mr Grump's mother and brother - oh god, thank goodness we only do it once a year. After 3 hours with her and the brother - I was ready to go back to 'normalcy'
We got home yesterday to our little nest and it was so good to sit in our loungeroom and go to bed in our bed...
We stayed at Grandma's on Sunday night, and it was lovely, it was good to see her before she goes to hospital for her op. She seemed in good form despite the stuff she has had to go through recently. Dad P and Aunty S is visiting her and keeping her company.
I have started some favours for the Yellow Rose tourney in November and also some other things that I can't mention here on blogger.
So much has happen with the SCA group and it's wonderful - we have had postive reponses for other groups, our local communities...
Anyway, I am in lectures and should actually pay attention for the last five minutes.

My Personality

Neuroticism	32
Extraversion	76
Openness To Experience	66
Agreeableness	31
Conscientiousness	40

You are sociable, outgoing, energetic, and lively. You prefer to be around people much of the time. You are generally calm and composed, reacting moderately well to situations that most people would describe as stressful. A desire for tradition does not prevent you from trying new things. Your thinking is neither simple nor complex. To others you appear to be a well-educated person but not an intellectual. People see you as tough, critical, and uncompromising and you have less concern with others' needs than with your own. You are reasonably reliable, organized, and self-controlled.

Test Yourself Compare Yourself View Full Report Funky MySpace Layouts.

A Tribute..

Our last cat, Maddie aka Mee-ma died on Friday night. Fortunately/unfortunately I wasn't here when it happened - Mr Grump had to deal with it as well as telling Dad No. 1 about it. She was a feisty, crazy, hissy thing that was a strange people cat on her own terms (sniffing toes or hands then biting them!). She is missed but also it is a relief to see her at peace because she was so old (in cat years - 98) and was suffering from arthritis and eating very little.

She is in a sunny spot now away from the others so they can't hassle her...

I must admit that it feels weird not having cats in the house, of course we have the dogs, geese and chooks but still not having a purring sun worshipper feels odd.

Social (or not so social calendar) Calendar Update

August 25th - Mr Grumps birthday. Was good, drank a little, made too much food, in bed by 11ish. The Fire Bucket of Friendship did its thing again and people flocked to it. Itwas a cool night but mild enough for people to sit around and chat and eat. Miss K and her boyf, Mr L came and Miss K brought good wine...shame I could'nt drink more of it - too busy fussing over people being fed...again.
September 8 and 9th - The Tavern of the Black wolf with Middle eastern food was a pretty good time had by all methinks. I was happy with how the food turned out and how people had a 'go' at eating most of the food. The Baqlawa of Radburne will be making a appearance again along with the Honey cake of Radburne...will I get a reputation?
Sunday the 9th was a wonderful day in the park in Wello - we had people having picnics and spending a day with us watching the fighties and asking questions. I am so happy that we will be having a every 2nd month thing at the park starting next year.
Now, I am on holidays from Uni but not uni work :( I have 4 assignments due the 2nd week back from holidays) so I won't be going to Spring War or Baronial Hunt.
I AM A BIT PISSED OFF AT THAT! - besides we can't afford it really.
October and November are going to be HUGE with events coming out of the wazoo and then starting prac, in that time we have to get to Sydney for 2 major events - a birthday party and a anniversary party, attend a weekend at Katrijn's for the Yellow Rose Tourney.
November 24 -25 - yess, that is how long we have to wait until we can do the Bike Riding course at Orange.....sheesh.

Still alive

I'll still here. Just too freakin busy to post. Uni sucks. war was good, had super fun, Mr Grump camped with me (went home during the day - benefits of living only 40 minutes from site). Mr Grump's birthday this weekend, party, cake, booze, YAY!

Star Trekkin 2

Of Course I'm Klingon!

Your Score: Klingon

You scored 60 % Aggressivness, 40 % Technology, and 40 % Social Enlightenment!

Homeworld: Q'onoS

The Klingons are an extremely aggressive, patriarchal species. Klingons have a well-developed sense of honour and value this, as well as bravery and power, very highly. Klingon technological development is exclusively focused on military weapons, which means that although their weapons are powerful, their ships can be a little... well, they would be called 'fixer-uppers'. Klingons view all other species with suspicion and are quick to start a fight. As a Klingon, you are also very aggressive and probably find yourself in a lot of fights. You're a lusty sort of person, the type who values good friends, good wine and a good woman (or man). You would fight to the death if needs be and are a good person to have if the going gets tough. You also thrive on challenges and find it hard to forgive.

OTHER CATEGORIES

Ferengi

Vulcan

Romulan

Human

Klingon

Cardassian

Borg

Android/Hologram

Like this test? Then don't forget to rate it!!

Want more? How about some shameless self-promotion? I've also written other tests - check them out! You know you want to...

The Trekkie Test

The Do *YOU* Remember The 90's Test

The Capitals of the World Test

The Australian Trivia Test

Link: The Which Star Trek Species R U Test written by MadameBoffin on OkCupid, home of the The Dating Persona Test

Star Trekkin

Your Score: Trekkie Appreciator

Survey Says... You scored 73 %

You like Star Trek and have obviously watched more than a couple of episodes or movies, but you don't live or breathe the world (read: you probably don't go to your local McDonalds in your Klingon gear - not that there's anything wrong with that...). Excellent! You've managed to tread the fine line between sci-fi buff and Star Trek nerd (otherwise known as the difference between enjoying Star Trek for its entertainment value and running around with a batleth quoting Klingon battle poetry).

Like this test? Then don't forget to rate it!!

Want more? How about some shameless self-promotion? I've also written other tests - check them out! You know you want to...

The Which Star Trek Species R U Test

The Do *YOU* Remember The 90's Test

The Capitals of the World Test

The Australian Trivia Test

Link: The Trekkie Test written by MadameBoffin on OkCupid Free Online Dating, home of the The Dating Persona Test

I want to ride my bicycle - I want to ride my bike.

So, ok, right, so , ok, here is the story. Since I was a little girl riding on the bike with my dad when I was knee high to a large grasshopper I have liked motorbikes. Oh no, you say, they're dangerous, fast, two-wheeled machines that car drivers never see until its too late. Yep, I have had that chat to myself over the years but everytime I have seen a bike going somewhere whether it was in the city traffic or chewing up country miles I have sighed and gone I WANT ONE!

Now, at this point in time where we really don't have any money saved and it all goes on bills and loan and mortgages we have brought not only a new car (1997 Mitsubishi Magna V6) but a '94 Virago..and here she is..

I just have to do the 2 day training course, get the gear and get on her and go somewhere, probably down to end of the street and back. Mr Grump is pleased too, because it's what he will be riding as well until he get his bike...

For the non-SCA playing Wolfman

Well, being fuelled by caffeine has its benefits. After using Katrijns projector on Saturday after the working bee at Dragon Hill for up and coming War Weekend (oh no, less than two weeks away!), I have made Mr Pleasant nee Grumble's banner - he may not have garb but he's got a banner - it took most Sunday afternoon and it was worth it..

Here are the photos.

The first one with the red blobs are the eye and tongue pinned on to show correct positioning. These were then sewn in place using a zig-zag stitch.









This shows the positioning of the wolf's head over the eye and tongue piece. I proceeded to pin the whole thing all over.

All stitched up and finished. Just need to hem top and bottom and its ready to go. Not a great angle but it shows it in it's entirety.

Updates

The Tavern Feast

Fantacular - it was super fun to be a in a tent in garb eating fantacular food and great company and yes, I did drink and yes, I did have a hangover the next day. We sang tavern songs, listen to poetry and stories and have a good laugh. I got to play a part in a story as the 'screamer' which once upon a time I would'nt be able to do - I just could'nt girly scream...

The Monthly Tourney

Was good, bloody cold and uncomfortable due to above hangover and chatterbox member of group. We had leftover pasties and chicken broth from tavern feast - all the better the next day...

Bunch of Classes

Was brillant, yet again another hangover from a nights girly drinking and then a party. The classess were interesting and informative and above all inspiring. I am now going to make an norse outfit because I made a Viking glass bead necklace and I am going to wear flemish because it so darn practical and it gives a nod to my Dutch ancestry. The feast on the Saturday was lovely and intimate with only 15 bods turning up, the atmosphere was candle-lit and the weather raining...lovely food too! Got to love Pot-luck.

got home on Sunday after a short stop at Spotlight - ahh Francesca you fabric temptress..you know my weakness because it is yours as well!!!!!!!!! oh, handkerchief linen in white, fuschia and red!

Monday

Woke up bearly (yep, I meant bearly) and did nothing for the day

Tuesday

Went to Bathurst and brought a new/old car for me. 1997 Mitsubishi Magna. Sexy charcoaly/black with CENTRAL LOCKING and CRUISE CONTROL!

I will pick it up soon, just needs power mirrors fixed.

Since Tuesday I have been getting over the flu which Mr Pleasant/Grump donated to me - nice.

Off to working bee at Dragon Hill tomorrow in prep for our WAR! woohoo.

Its all true

How evil are you?

Severus Snape is Sexy.

Yep, I think so - all that brooding darkness and sarcastic commentary through gritted teeth- it gets me, plus it's Alan Rickman so I am bound think he's sexy. BTW Harry Potter was excellent, He who should not be named was scary...

Today (friday) Mr Pleasant and I went to Mudgee to the Small Farms Field Day - typically it was windy, cold and muddy. Despite the weather I brought home some Wiltipoll sheep, Dorper Sheep, 3 Clydedales horses, Angora goats and a herd of Alpacas as well as a quad bike for Mr Pleasant nee Grump, a Akrubra hat for me (to be worn on a jaunty angle like all landed gentry do), and of course a combine harvester for the paddock that does not include animals.

In the real world I got freebies from the government departments to be used as resources when I am teaching finally.

Tomorrow, a 3rd birthday party in the morning and then tomorrow night a tavern feast at Francesca and Oz's followed by the monthly day in the park on Sunday. Hopefully, I won't be hungover - depends how I feel really, will take fizzy (lemonade etc) and alcomohol WHEEEEE!

Can't sleepitis

I was good I went to bed at reasonable hour and how does my body repay me? By turning the head noise on..sheesh.

Off to Harry Potter with Mum tomorrow, that's the good news, bad news is I have to leave at 8ish to get down there to Molong so that we can make the 10.15am viewing on time in Orange...will need caffeine at some stage to aid alertness.

Some good news, for the first time since I started Uni, my uni textbooklist for the next semester will be under $200 - huzzah.

might try sleep again, Mr Grump must have stopped snoring by now..

the weather pixie is lying!

Its not 12 degree celcius - its bloody colder than that in the foothills. Wind chill factor brings it down to roaring hot fire, dogs inside, stay away from windows for they frost up as soon as you stand near them!

However, Mr Pleasant (despite being back at work) and I did venture forth to our favourite cafe for lunch - could'nt fit in coffee and cake afterwards ..so we brought it home...coffee good.

Hopefully, the reverse cycle split system blowing nice nice machine will be fixed this afternoon after waiting for the part for eons - so we will have something for those cold mornings and can't be bothered lighting fire days.

On the drug front, it has gone well, we have followed doctors' instructions and now await for the blood test days which will next monday and the following monday. I sense that it will take a couple of attempts just to assist with the routine and drug effects. We both have enough things in our life to distract us from becoming obsessed.

Well, it looks like Francesca and I are off to Bunch of Classes in couple of weeks - we are just waiting for confirmation of our billet which/might be Deense/Katje. I loved it so much last year that this shall be a good time again. Francesca (Hi!) is always good company..

I have also become a signatory on the groups bank account - which is one more step towards becoming a Shire and not just proposed.

Off to think of ideas for the August camping war event at Katrijn's (Hi K!) and sew together my teal green under-caftan..will post photos soon.

Drugs

Now, before you say - which ones or she really does'nt need them. Recreationally, I do not indulge but I use to. I did'nt mind a pipe or two of wacky baccy but I digress.

This is really an update on the proceedings that are proceeding as I type.
I am now on the other drugs which I will take from day 5 to 9 ( I am on day 7) and then we are suppose to do 'special cuddles' (excuse the tweeness) on day 12 (which is Thursday), day 14 (saturday) and day 16 (monday). When I took these drugs before I was the bitch goddess from the 49th levels of hell - I had never witnessed myself as that person before - hormones are truly fantastic chemicals. This time?? truthfully, I'm wondering if they are working because I am just my normal self...so what is different (bear with me)

1. I am older
2. I am not working or at Uni
3. I want this to happen in positive frame of mind
4. I am not stressed with what might NOT happen
5. Mr Grump is on holidays and therefore Mr Pleasant
6. We don't live in suburbia in Sydney
7. Lifestyle is so far removed from what it was previously.

On days 21 and 28 (saturdays) I will need to have blood tests, as per described by the specialist to see if anything has happened (I am working in the now and not the future - god, an affirmation if I ever read one!). So, that's it really.

Diary for the next few days

Travel plans for the Big Smoke.
Day One (Sunday): Travel to Grandma B's at Blaxland - 3.5hr drive.
Day Two (Monday): Drive to nearest train station and go into the city (alight train at St James station walk to art gallery, pay entry fee, see Art of Islam exhibition, leave gallery, walk to circular quay through Botan'l Grdns, lunch, walk up George Street, visit Haigh's Chocolates for sister and selves, walk towards Town Hall, go to Myer etc, catch train home back to Grandma's B's.
Day Three ( Tuesday): Visit specialist native plant nursery for stock-ups, go to Richmond or Windsor for Lunch, back to Blaxland via other interesting places (norman lindsay gallery??)
Day Four (Wednesday): Travel to Smithfield to the Dutch shop for netherlandish food supplies (I have lists)
Day Five (Thursday): Travel home via Mudgee??

News

I have been made the Shire of Radburne's Herald. HUZZAH.
It's going to be a bit more interesting and lot more involved than the old position and I think personally a lot more responsibility. I am looking forward to it.
I am so happy that I was chosen because it means that others believe in me and the long term future of the group with me in it.
Ok, enough of the the ego trip, back to regular viewing.
Hi to Miss Wu - lurking there reading my blog!
See you soon and good luck for exams!

It's hard being a woman or ????

well, this what it feels like to be a woman? crampy, cravings and etc..
It started on Sunday - yay!
Feels weird after almost 5 months of not having anything. Drug induced or not, psychologically it does feel different - is this what it feels like to have 'normal' hormones? gosh, I don't mind it at all. Seeing the doc on Wednesday - next step. Blood test, more drugs, get serious-er time.

Besides that I have cut out a new caftan and accoutrement(sp?) and having super fun with Mr Grump whilst he is on Hols so therefore Mr Pleasant.
Next weekend off to Sydney to visit Grandma and the Art of Islam exhibit and probably have dinner with Miss Wu.

If I could be anywhere today it would be...

In a castle. Discovering cobweb encrusted secret passage ways and dusty old libraries. Drinking brandy in the drawing room reading Penny dreadful romances in front of roaring fire and eating smoked salmon blinis before dinner with my Russian lover.

The above castle is for sale in the Ukraine..

This time it was Katrijn!

What Pirates of the Caribbean character are you? Your Result: Hector Barbossa You are Captain Hector Barbossa! You are so evil that even hell its self spat you back out! In other words, you are one evil dude! And you really like apples.
Jack Sparrow
Will Turner
Elizabeth Swann
James Norrington
Tia Dalma
Cutler Beckett
Davy Jones
What Pirates of the Caribbean character are you?

I don't really like apples.

Am I being silly?

I want to adopt another animal. As if 3 geese, 3 dogs, numerous chooks and a mad cat and a wacky sheep isn't enough. I would like another cat - its nice having Maddie but she isn't exactly affectionate. You would be lucky if you got sniffed and then bitten.

I enjoy having cats around, aloof and independent as they are. But at least they are entertaining when they think you are not looking..

Here are some choices from the RSPCA:

This little one is just too cute and cheeky. My favourite so far.
This reminds me of my ginger boy. I am a sucker for Ginger Toms.

This one is called Leo. I think he would grow up to be a little lion too. There is something elegant about him.

I's gots me a job

I have achieved another step to becoming a teacher. I have become a tutor - I met my first client today with her mum. She is a shy but delightful 11 year old that has not been supported enough in Literacy in mainstream Primary education. We will be working on her spelling, writing skills and comprehension. I will endeavour to make it interesting, relevant and flexible to her needs.
I'm excited by this prospect and another good thing is that it seems that it was meant to be with the opportunity presenting itself and then before I knew it I was meeting the client today and another bonus its once a week (great for Uni/Study schedule) and its local (no petrol costs!).

Other news

Remember the teapot?- Credit for performance!


On the first lot of drugs..
1. 30mg of Provera every day for 10 days (its almost 7 days already)
2. Been having L.S.A on the rice flakes, yoghurt and fruit combo to help with phyto-estrogens
3. Feeling slight mittelschmerz from both ovaries - good sign.
4. Not much hormonal fluctuations with mood, cravings etc - I think holidays are helping.

Next step
Period
Blood Test
Clomiphene to aid ovulation
Start charting etc.
Breath.

Upon Ponderance of Life

Rather obtuse title, methinks. Pondering many things amongst those, the power one gives to negativity by allowing it to manifest in conversation over and over. Recently, this has been occuring in the group of like-minded individuals and with 2 members leaving (with relief being felt all round) and a general bouncier mood being felt for about month now we just have experienced more negativity with back handed snide remarks being reported to some powers that be....so, how do I feel?

Disappointed at the lack of maturity and need for negative sooky behaviour, sadden at what it does to our 'leader' for she does what she does because she has passion, commitment and time for others, and pondering what else has been said that could potentially hurt people's perception of our group - humble as we are?

On the bright side, we are stronger, bigger, and delighted with progress we are making and love doing what we are doing. Can't wait until August and I can't wait until Saturday for A&S and bodice fitting and patterning so I can remake my florentine with a period fitted bodice. Excited.

On other news - overnight we had 18mm in the gauge and a couple mm today- YAY

If I could be anywhere today it would be...

Cook Islands..

its tropical, warm, friendly, exotic, no distractions.

Just him and me

sipping coconut juice and kava

eating pork and fish

swimming, eating, meeting

That's where I'd be today..

Where would you be?

Out of crap comes goodness

Some good news today, after the crap I had to put up with in doing the group assignment - we got a DISTINCTION- big huzzah on that.


On other news, saw the 'ferty' specialist last week and we are seeing him again this week for an update with results of blood test and 'swimmers' test. Hopefully, it will be straightforward and just the one drug to help ovulation again, if not another drug will come and play and then it will injections if those 2 are not successful.


Had some news from the group - H & K have resigned officer's posts and will not participating in the group due to personal reasons etc..I hope they have fun doing whatever they will be doing and we find some new officers so we can proceed with the becoming a Shire.

Funny day today, a quick trip to Dubs this morning to do a courier run for the little swimmers - I was hoping all the way up I wasn't pulled over by the cops or had a car accident - how would I explain what was in my pocket...bears not thinking about.

Oh well, you gotta do what you gotta do..

Sunday was a fantastic day with the clan du mareschal visiting Sydney for the unveiling of the Welcome wall at the Maritime museum http://www.anmm.gov.au/site/page.cfm
Gran B, Mum and Dad P, Unk J, Super K and Miss Wu and myself (Mr Grump needed time at home) saw the ceremony, had lunch at Darling Harbour, (Gran B and I had Ice Cream!) then came back and checked out the wall with the family names on it. I think we may also be on the website - we did get our piccies taken...and KAMAHL was there.

While we were walking around Gran B and I stood behind Kamahl - he is a beautifully dressed man with impeccable grooming and lovely basso voice..
Decided to get more immigrant members on the wall eventually when we are rich again. I have 3 on Dad J's side of the family, and on Mum's well - you can take it back to that convict who stole a shirt. On Mr Grump's side 3 members - 2 from Scotland, 1 from Austria.

Green, Green Grass and other news

After the 50+ mm of rain last week and a follow-up of 2.5 on Monday night, it has become a verdant,lush and fecund looking land again. All we need is frolicsome lambs with wiggly tails, calves at udder and piglets wallowing in mud. It has delighted my eyes for almost a week and has soothed a very frazzled, tired, emotionally spent mind.

I am now on Jolidays for 10 weeks and in that time I hope to start the 'ferty' treatment - Specialist visit tomorrow. I had my bloodtest yesterday and will find out results Monday. After 5 years of denial and hoping for the best naturally its time to try again with assistance - we are different people after 5 years and I don't think we will be repeating the same mistakes from that time...hopefully no she-devil from the pits of hormone hell.

It won't be easy but biology does'nt come into it anymore - it's not the biologically clock ticking, I've contemplated, I've bargained, I pleaded and now, I just have to do it, build a bridge, leave the pity party and be pro-active - I did it with going to Uni and I can do it now I have a support structure that is amazing, my family, Mr Grump and my SCA pals and othe friends and I am doing what my destiny is telling me to do - follow the path and finding my bliss -be a teacher, be a mother, be a supporter of living.

Rosella in the grass - a bit out of focus but still a delight to have in the front yard!

What this Bachelor of Education student does for fun!

Ok, I give up I am never going to post about our feast or demo - but just briefly - fun, was made a lady, everyone was awesome at the feast and demo, SCA people are generally great people, my family was there except Miss Wu and Miss K (sad about that). Wore my new caftan and my blue velveteen and bodice get-up - felt like a rool girl.

Onto other stuff - as part of English curriculum 2 in the 3rd of year of B.Ed(Primary) we are doing presentations of stories or poetry - I have decided to do The Ning Nang Nong by Spike Milligan - a true master of the ridiculous and devilishly clever and silly at the same time. For this presentation, one has the OPTION of using props, the following photo are what I have made. Also excellent for Kindergarten kids as it teaches them the sound 'ng' - which can be difficult for some children to actually sound out and hear when pronouncing words - to do with palate development and hearing development.

It sits on my head as I quote the poem to the class...

The little square near the lid is a tea-bag label.

What does'nt kill us only makes us crazy!

This is still not the post about how feast or demo from 2 weeks ago. Instead I am contemplating on events that have recently happened at home and at that other institute of bedlam.
Several things have happened recently that have made me doubt my ability and sort of hurt my usual bouncy self-confidence. One of these events has been recorded in the blog and the other has only come to light recently. That happening is the group project that we are doing for a subject at the Institut de Bedlam - what has arisen out of the experience is this:
1. Some people should have real-life experiences before being placed in a group situation.
2. Personalities that have had autonomous types of real life experiences should not work together
3. Approaching the lecturer is the last measure IE: you don't 'dob' in a group member until you have sorted the stupid situation out first.
4. It is a crap time of year for group work with 3 other major assignments due.
5. IT IS CRAP - I USUALLY LIKE WORKING IN GROUPS!

6. Email is a form of communication - use it and inform members of the group that you are having a meeting.

I have decided to be philosophical about the whole thing and get it over and done with. I feel however, for a friend that is in the group that he has been made the go-between and the only person that is truly communicating with me.

Onto other things...having lost Tasha this week has made me contemplate a few things - one of them being the length of time you have with a pet is ephemeral.

However, the time you have in a committed relationship is infinite in possiblities. It all depends on who you want to be in the relationship - a victim, a individual, a combined force, or a person committed in a relationship for the sake of a relationship.

I have found that what works for me is individuality and being a combined force. At times Mr Grump is the stronger one in the relationship and sometimes I am - that has come with practise and lot of patience - which I lack in boatloads...

Coping Strategies - Scotch and a good lie down

I wish it was that simple.
Mr Grump and I have made the decision
Tasha has a tumour which is causing too much pain and suffering
Tomorrow - don't ask how I will be..

Still feel like shite

Well, its been 2 days since my last entry and I still am wondering what the fuck is going on. After my entry on tuesday, I had another blow to the solar plexus after another - one quite major with one that is quite temporary and will sort itself out in the next couple of days.

The major one is that I will not be doing Practicum this semester - which means I will not be teaching or doing the research assignment that is required. Now, Practicum is the only thing that makes the whole Uni experience worth it and makes sense of the whole Uni theory bullshit that is going on the rest of the time.

So, what will I be doing?? hmm, let's see - 10 weeks of stuff of nothing..Because of the lecturer who shall remain nameless because to name them is to give power to them and to protect me from slander - ain't that stoopid. Last year's illness played havoc with Uni and assignments and the appeal to the powers that be were supposed to fix it but it did'nt work so I have to repeat a subject next semester whilst doing 2 core subjects, 2 electives plus this subject again and then hopefully do my Practicum from this semester next semester towards the end of the year - its enough to make one want to jump, alcoholic or join a nunnery for a simple life except I could'nt live without decent food or sex.

and the other matter is about an assignment that was'nt received in full by a lecturer before the holidays and we only just found out about it on Tuesday - but they are being understanding and allowing me to find the info and email it through.

And on other news, Tasha is in hospital for suspected virus-y/flu-y/infection of some sort of mysterious cat like qualities - just what we need more money going out the door...

I will post SCA stuff up soon once things have calmed down...I do want to upload a photo of the new caftan,under-caftan and shalwar that I will be making..

I am going to start on my new device very soon so that when I do renew my membership I'll register the device, my name and everything will be kosher for my A.o.A ...

I will also post my thoughts on our feast which happened on last Saturday.

Poaching Again - I'll get a reputation!

http://www.goldencompassmovie.com/?60193

is it true - let me know.


On other news, another shitty day at Uni with receiving a crappy mark for what I had thought was a reasonable effort at assignment that I had quite enjoyed with the use of modern Australian literature that was image based with no written words to guide the reader. However, my lecturer - my one-eyebrowed baby (simpsons reference) let me down again and I received a mark that clearly reflects her need to feel superior and obsessive about what she perceives to be right and correct her little lecture-y world.
Other students have received crap marks as well and questioned their want to teach and their need to feel validated - which I know you should not NEED seek validation but find in yourself - but after 3 and a bit years of doing this f'n course - we all need to feel supported somehow especially when the University espouses this we're here for you and we'll get through no matter what- so our stats look good.
Its enough b.s for me to start looking for something else to do - like earn money and live in the real world unlike the lecturer I have.
I even took ownership of the word C..T today and used it to release some tension - it felt good.
I shall use it randomly when the situation warrants it.

Thanks Mayela - I've been poaching again

Read my VisualDNA™ Get your own VisualDNA™

I did another one

I keep finding them through SCA blogs - its a addiction methinks.

What Be Your Nerd Type? Your Result: Artistic Nerd Whether it's painting, sewing, drawing, arts and crafts; or just splashing paint onto a canvas and calling it art; you mostly fit this description. Lots of people envy the artists, but be humble and keep working on it. There is a shortage of true artists today who actually contribute anything to society.
Literature Nerd
Drama Nerd
Social Nerd
Gamer/Computer Nerd
Science/Math Nerd
Musician
Anime Nerd
What Be Your Nerd Type? Quizzes for MySpace

I need to do a Poll

Please reply for the following question: I have 10 mts of burgundy velveteen what kind of dress should I make?:

A>http://www.marquise.de/en/1500/pics/158x_1.shtml
B>http://www.marquise.de/en/1500/pics/1580_2.shtml
C>http://www.marquise.de/en/1500/pics/1550_4.shtml

These are the choices I like as well Cranach (german style gown)

http://www.artchive.com/artchive/c/cranach/cranach_judith.jpg

Let me know by commenting in my comments!

Thanks

Tee Toonicks

I have decided to make Mr Grump a couple of T Tunics for the feast - I started the first one today and tried it on myself - oh o - the sleeves are too tight and the underarm gore-thingy is too big - its a simple t-tunic - what did I do wrong?- I USED INCHES INSTEAD OF CENTIMETRES -imperial measurements in a metric brain - it figures.

So I'll unpick it and put in a piece of fabric to broaden the sleeve and adjust the under-arm gore thingy and then I can proceed with putting the facing in and putting on the braid I 'made' from an old curtain remnant that I got for 2 dollars at a op-shop - should look good with the white broadcloth I have used to make the blessed tee toonick.

I am umm and arrring about making something for the feast (THE K&Q ARE COMING!!!) when i have already a few things I could wear..velveteen skirt etc and my flowery persian, I need to fix the cuffs on the undercaftan that I wear with the flowery persian.

I'll think about it..

ON OTHER NEWS.....

Mr Grump and I have decided to give fertility treatment a go so I have made a appointment to see the wonder-doc on Wednesday for a referral to a specialist. I'm a bit apprehensive about it all after what happened last time I went on the 'ferty' but that was when we were living in Sydney and very very stressed out. We are both in very different places now and it should be a little easier to cope with the hormones and the charting etc.

Will update as news comes to hand...

Festival 2007

Market day and boffer tourney

I glad to say that I survived the dust, wind and atrocious distance from anything that was our campsite. I came home earlier than expected due to feeling a bit blue/homesick, suffering from swollen ankles from walking over uneven,rocky, dusty roads. Despite the conditions I saw a lot of people I have met before at other events and they remembered me. Market day was enjoyable with lots of little things brought - earrings from Oonagh, hat, snoods, cute little bag and a bowl and beaker cup from Alex the potter. I ended up with 3 Salty Bint tavern cups having pretended to be 3 different people - more feastware!
The classes I attended were fantastic and now I have an urge to make period shoes and mittens and maybe learn the drop spindle. The food from Crispin's kitchen was exceptional and filling/hearty fare. I volunteered for the troll booth one afternoon which was a nice way to spend Saturday afternoon...quiet.

This is the view from the troll booth.











Radburne is in there somewhere oh!thats right over the hill and nowhere near anything..

HAHA off to festival

You Are 60% Boyish and 40% Girlish

You are pretty evenly split down the middle - a total eunuch.Okay, kidding about the eunuch part. But you do get along with both sexes.You reject traditional gender roles. However, you don't actively fight them.You're just you. You don't try to be what people expect you to be.

How Boyish or Girlish Are You?

Yeah, that's about right. See ya when I get back from festival!

It's my birthday!

As you can see by the title, yes, it's my birthday. I'm a year older and maybe a little wiser? 34 years old and I'm feeling a little meh! about it so far but it's still early in the day. I walked down to the letterbox and retrieved the mail today, there was 2 cards for me - this is one of the enjoyable parts of birthdays - is the cards sent in the mail. One was from the sister Miss Woo- the city-dwelling polictics/history studying baby sister - this is a photo of the front of it, of course its her humour all of it - front of card, middle of card, back of card in large writing..and the other card in the mail was from shell - an erstwhile friend of whom I have not talked to for a while now for various reasons, some good, some bad, some just miffed at stuff reasons.

One of my surprises came in the form of a sheep, I arrived home after a very long day at Uni to find a sheep bahhhhing away in the vegie patch paddock..She was a 'stray' found wandering the streets of Wello by the ranger - so of course Mr Grump brought her home. Ladies and gentleman presenting Princess Lambchop.

As well as accumulating a sheep, we have baby chickens living in our bathroom - THE BATHROOM YOU SAY? yes, the bathroom, as it has got cooler up here but still quite warm during the day - the temperature for raising baby chooks is a bit dodgy to regulate without relatively constant supervision, of which, Mr Grump and I cannot provide at the moment. WHY ARE'NT THEY WITH THEIR MOTHER? Because they were hatched in a incubator to increase chances of survival. So, therefore they live in our bathroom free from predators -feathered - yes, chooks can eat their own and others young, furry - feral cats, possums and scaly - goannas, lizards etc and they spend their babychickenhood in a box with a lightpot for warmth and comfort.

Its all very cute with fluffy feathery bundles of cheepiness - but it can be a bit of an uneasy feeling showering and drying oneself with this junior chooks looking at you - or am I just being paranoid?

Off to lunch today with Mr Grump, to our usual country cafe - bound to eat something wholesome, followed by lemon cheesecake (for which I am addicted at the moment) and my weekly coffee - which I love hot, strong and sweet - kinda like how I like my lovers.

Not that I have many lovers for the past 13 years of being with Mr Grump - one really, him.

I contemplate the field playing scenario occasionally and people of both genders kinda get me looking but not touching, just for the fact that I am loyally loved and appreciated by a man that surprises me with puppies, sheep and goodness knows what next...

Silly again

You Are Sunrise

You enjoy living a slow, fulfilling life. You enjoy living every moment, no matter how ordinary. You are a person of reflection and meditation. You start and end every day by looking inward. Caring and giving, you enjoy making people happy. You're often cooking for friends or buying them gifts. All in all, you know how to love life for what it is - not for how it should be.

What Time Of Day Are You?

New Hat!

My new tudor flat cap! I have changed the peacock feather to 3 black/green rooster feathers which look pretty cool. It completes the ensemble of the velveteen skirt, bodice from the US and now I just have to make a new chemise to go under it from some lovely cotton blend material in a creamy stripe that I got from Spotlight today.

My first manicure

I gave in to my vanity today and had my first manicure, what a delight and what a joy. As a person who utilises her hands for all things hand related. After a dreadful closing shift at work, I decided to spend some time having this joyous thing committed unto my beat-up old hands. Now they are a pretty pinky-flesh colour with twinkly chocolate brown nails.

On other news, its been a week since my ginger-boy left us and I feel terrible because I don't feel as horrible as other cat lovers I have talked to have, but on the other hand if I do contemplate for too long - I do start to tear up.

Tomorrow is our get-together in the park in Dubs - I will training again with Sir Oz (oh know the nails!) and I will eating gluten free choco brownies with Lady Francesca and Lady Katrijn, Oelken and Johanna and whoever else turns up..

Less than 2 weeks to my birthday! YAY! Even less until I get my new tattoo! woo to the hoo.

What the?

The day started off nice and early at 6.30am which is becoming the norm now. Being inspired by the rising sun I was outside taking photos with the digital camera. Dad turned up at 9ish after having power-walked out to our place, after telling the news about the gingerboy we had a cuppa, cake and a chat. Off to Coles for the weekly shop. Home again and finished a draft of a uni assignment(maths-ewww). After lunch, assignment etc it was off for my first training with Sir Oz and Oelken - super-fun for now but when they start to hit back - I don't knowww.

My arms are now sore and I feel the need for a good sleep....

Goodbye my Gingerboy

I lost my boy today. After suffering for a week with kidney failure and a suspected brain tumour, Mr Grump and I made the very hard decision to have Alex put to rest. The vets were so lovely and gentle and called him a beautiful cat (despite being contrary at times). Alex was my baby before I had Mr Grump, and all the other creatures in my life. He had the loudest purr I had heard from any cat and loved nose nuzzles.

Goodbye boyness

Nicked from Tyg's LJ.

Your Aura is Orange

You're a bit of a loner, but you're never lonely. You know how to entertain yourself. Whether you're trying an extreme sport or a new weird food, you always live on the edge. The purpose of your life: testing limits - both physical and mental... and then telling people about it. Famous oranges include: Timothy Leary, David Blaine, Tony Hawk, Carey Hart Careers for you to try: Snowboarder, Circus Performer, Undercover Agent

What Color Is Your Aura?

Ooooh, can I be a undercover agent?? Please??

Sheesh, its only been a week

Its only been a week and I am already feeling overwhelmed, so here I am blogging to add to the procrastination. I am looking at my wallplanner and thinking hmm, lots of stuff to do and more grey hairs to cover up at the hairdressers. Speaking of grey hairs, the group of like-minded individuals is not so like-minded at the moment and some are down right dictatorial whilst others are thinking what and where can we go if we cannot work stuff out. As one of the orginal members of the group it is dividing my loyalty towards others and leaving me feeling quite sad and a bit miffed.

Hopefully, we can just do the band-aid thing and rip it off and make definite decisions democratically. Otherwise, I think the group could either disband or could schism into 'he said, she said' dynamics.

Some other stuff - I have had a breakthrough with Mr Grump and will now be either referred to as Wolfgang (SCA related stuff) or Mr Grump (real-life stuff). I am well on my way to saving for Festival and now we have a site and a kitchen/meeting tent, I have volunteered to be a roaming reporter and do heralding - as well collegia, buying goodies and hopefully carousing in the tavern. I am yet to finish the velveteen skirt (hem and trouser hooks) and make another 2 kamiz's for my persian stuff, and start another outfit.

I have also started our personal website and fixed up the groups website www.sca.org.au/radburne which is a ongoing thing.

So, life is busy but I would winge if it wasn't.

Too much time on my hands

What mental disorder do you have? Your Result: OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) You have odd obsessions that you cannot seem to control. You may even perform rituals to make you feel better. Counting and continuously obsessing over things happens frequently.
ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder)
GAD (Generalized Anxiety Disorder)
Manic Depressive
Paranoia
What mental disorder do you have?

Not much doin really...

Have had a few days of quiet noodling around home. Started my velvet(een) skirt in blue and green to go with my wonderful bodice from the US. www.oddbodkin.com soon as I had sewn the skirt together and gathered around the waist and pinned the waistband on - surprise, surprise (please read sarcasm), the waistband is too small by ohhh 2 inches! So, ripped it all apart, cut out 2 additional panels and extend the waistband. The additional panels are for fullness in the skirt.

I did have success with the under-skirt in blue broadcloth - simple sewing with a ribbon tied waist.

I finally went back to work this week, however, I went back a day early, so it was a humourous escapade into goofiness - no embarrassment required, just a good laugh. worked wednesday, thursday and have a shift on Sunday. I have worked out the days I will be available during Uni which will be grand to have money whilst learning stuff.

We are having visitors tomorrow! SOme of the gang from Radburne www.sca.org.au/radburne are coming over for a planning/social lunch - I am making caesar salad with gluten free croutons and gluten free 2 tone chocolate brownies...yummo.

Oh..I will also have new hair by the end of this afternoon - as I said to Mr Grump - I can accept the grey hair but I can't live with it yet..

Happy Birthday Mum!

Yep, its mum's birthday today. We are travelling down for dinner tonight. Traditional roast with the trimmings and probably a superb birthday cake for afters.

I was up at the crack of dawn today as part of this ' I have so much energy its cheesing me off' thing my body and head is doing at the moment. So far I have almost completed a under-caftan for my new persian outfit and done 2 lots of washing ...sheesh.

Its going to be hot again - 41C yesterday, a little less today about 38C.

I also received my bodice from the states! So, I am going to go and look at it and go oooohhh pretttyy.

Energy Rising

Its been a little over a week since my op and I am finding I have increasing energy, I just wish it was a little cooler so that I could get out and do some gardening or go for a walk. My throat pain is becoming a distant memory with little discomfort. I still have to keep up the fluids so that it does'nt get too sore or dry. I am getting excited about the possiblities that the op has given me with being able to function reasonably normally without being constantly tired and muddleheaded. No excuses for memory loss now!

There has been emails back and forth to Kol about Festival and camping. It looks like we will have friends from West Oz joining us in our site - HUZZAH! I am getting really excited about it and it is still 2 months (oh shit) away. Must get moving on garb sewing (finish shawl collar caftan and pants, make persian undergarments, velvet skirt to match bodice, and refurbish cloak).

I've said I can work next week and by the looks of it I will need the money as we are hiring a marquee for our site at Festival - a great idea. We will probably purchase food for snacks and go with Crispins kitchen for meals - which is great deal for the 4-5 days I will be there.

Uni to start in 24 days. 2 days a week - full on days, the rest of the week for study, work and chillin'.

Pain, Recovery and Realisation of Self

It'll be a week tomorrow since I had my op and the recovery is progressing with some words being spoken today with a little pain. The frustration level has hit all time highs with the cravings for non-mushy, cool foods (catch-cry has been
I NEED STEAK!)increasing everytime Mr Grump eats something nice for dinner or lunch. I have had to spend a lot of time in the past week not speaking and therefore listening to the inner voice - which has'nt been too bad as the pain in my jaw, my tongue and throat have been consuming the majority of my concentration.

Liquid Paracetamol is effective for a relatively short period of time (4 hours initially) with overly sugary vanilla/strawberry flavour which induce children to imbibe but me (a sweettooth) to go, hmmm just work quickly please...

Everyone has been absolutely lovely sending me well wishes and even recipes for mushy savoury food (soup). Mr Grump has been an angel worrying, fussing without fussing, and being patient while I cry from frustration or write incredibly long messages about short subjects and buying mushy cool food which is quite good for me but quite naughty at the same time (King Island Vanilla Bean Yoghurt to begin with!)

I had a lovely message from Francesca in Fiji - Jealousy was roiling around me as I looked at the absolutely beautiful Pacific scenery - (one day it'll be us), what a wonderful opportunity for her to experience medicine in 'island time'. I hope she has lots of stories with pointing at bodily parts included.