Discrediting the Timewasters...

Hi AllHi All,

 Hi All,

I am sick to death of the junk that arrives in my inbox. 

Working in an office environment means that I get heaps of it (although I may file the Viagra ads away for 'one day' - he he he). The ones that annoy me the most are the ones that you don't immediately recognise as crap - you read along thinking that some-one is passing on some valuable information using the fantastic 'information super highway'. Isn't that what the internet is for? Really, a new type of spider that will make your leg fall off? Really, in some foreign parts snakes eat children whole, or kids have their arms crushed for stealing? Really? It must be true - it's in print. 

But as you read you start to get sus. The photos don't all have the same background. The text was different the last time you got the email. The child has a cushion! Here is the answer - before you defiantly sign that petition against injustices, or forward the email to 'keep the flame burning' or warn friends against predators of any species - check it out on http://www.snopes.com/ It is the most fantastic site for telling the whole story and discrediting urban myths. Occasionally the emails are even true (very occasionally!) It stops you feeling silly for forwarding something you later find out to be a hoax, or from giving your valuable time and attention to timewasting rubbish. I am a convert! 

And a belated 'Congratulations' to the new American President. Let's hope Barack Obama brings with him a new spirit of negotiation in the world's troubled regions and a committment to his own people doing it tough. As they say, "Charity begins at home" and "People in glass houses..." 

Oooh - serious again! I don't know what's got into me!? 

To finsh this ramble, just a reminder that if you tell the truth, you never have to remember anything. 

 Till next time...

The Australian Spirit

Hi all, 

"Well done" to Trooper Mark Donaldson, the soldier who this past week was awarded Australia's first Victoria Cross in many decades. While I am thoroughly opposed to the idea of war in all it's theatres, this young man has shown us the spirit that we can be most proud of. Although most of us don't actually get shot at in our daily lives(!), we can all learn something from his actions - committment to duty, courage under fire and keeping an eye on the welfare of your mates. I will try a little harder today for hearing about his bravery. 

Oooooh, that was a bit serious, wasn't it?! To end on a lighter note, let me share some teachings of Zen- 

*The journey of a thousand miles begins with a broken fan belt and a flat tyre. 

* No-one is listeneing until you fart. 

*If at first you don't succeed, skydiving is not for you. 

*Don't worry, it only seems kinky the first time. and 

*Give a man a fish, and he will eat for a day. Teach a man to fish, and he will sit in a boat and drink beer all day. 

Til next time...

Start at the beginning...

Well, here we go...

A friend's therapist suggested to her that she start to keep a journal of all life's ups and downs (especially downs!) , to help identify issues and keep things in perspective.

I thought I'd give it a go too - it's a way for me to stop my aging brain atrifying and much cheaper than actually seeing the therapist!

I actually started this blog in 2007, but found that life just kept getting in the way. A friend has inspired me to make sure I take some time out for myself this year, so this is it! I will aim to write every week. (New Years's Resolution.)

In this forum I can share some of my observations of, musings on, and frustrations with life, with my friends. Of course I may be the only one ever to read this, in which case - Hi Paula!

I feel better already.

In closing this first entry remember "Advice is what we ask for when we already know the answer but wish we didn't." - Erica Jong (not me - I'm not that profound!)

Till next time...PS