Seasonally challenged

Today is a new day. Today is a new season.
 Autumn.
 Fall. The beloved peace maker wedged between the two opposites; winter and summer. These two know who they are and arent afraid to give it their all. Spring and Autumn act as the confused in betweens. Mellowing out, a slight teaser of whats to come in the following months or the distant reminder of what you've just kissed bon voyage to. Spring encourages birth, growth and repair. Autumn lets the leaves speak for themselves, shedding, dropping and eventually dying right on winters doorstep.


Summer - exuberant
Autumn - Melancholy
Winter - indolent
Spring - flourishing


I crave this time of year. By the end of each season im at my low, having experienced plenty of what was on offer, already geared up for natures next curve ball, bat in hand and eye on the ball. Mostly due to my unabilty to stay still and focus on one thing at a time my regard for seasons staying constant is much the same. I need the little changes to appreciate what was had and now gone.


In my eyes winter is all about the hibernation. In Australia the year is half through and spirits are low as we power through work, study and lack of social motivation. the most appropriate time to have a 'mate', going back to basics of keeping warm and sheltered. Spring sees the dreery attitude lift as the birds sing and flowers bloom, mating season as I shall always call it. Summer acts as peak social season. Our bodies adjusting yet again, the once cosy sheets prove no match for the long sleepless nights ahead. And finally, autumn wears us down. The sound of summer heat a mere memory. Replaced only by the trees swaying, breeze gushing and leaves falling. The sun no longer forcing, rather showing a mellow half- hearted show until every vibrant red and orange leaf falls with dignity.


And of course the change in season a greatly reminder that before it's run its 3 month course, I will be long gone. Experiencing the seasons ever more, just on the other side of the world :-)


This photo captures absolutely everything I like about Autumn.
Taken by a dear soul; Gary Brown.
Gary possesses about as much passion about all things life as an over the top, corny romance novel series. He lights up the lives of all he touches. His bubbly energy is contagious as yawning, swine flu and laughter all at once. His photos so rightyly capture this.

Turning over a new leaf...quite literally

True

As the wise philosopher Ke$ha states; ''We are who we are''.
But how much of the 'we' are we sharing with others and how much do we feel obliged to conceal well beneath the dewy foundation and over sized sunnies?

I had a very special moment on the weekend which left me with chills; good ones. One of my friends came clean and told me something personal about themselves that has been bottled up for years. Of course the matter of todays muse is not even relevant enough to mention because the information changes totally nothing to do with our friendship, except for the fact that it is now more real than ever.

Nothing thrills me more than seeing someone pull free from conformity, choosing a path that is unique, genuine and without influence from surrounding critics. The problem with society is that occassionally it throws stereotypes and authority onto our shoulders and watches in glee as we give in and carry it. So refreshing to see people accepting nothing less than true self.

Given that these personal choices do not physically harm others or the universe, why do some people take pride in being lemmings? The most interesting people I tap feet with are not rightly so because of their career, their physical attributes, number of facebook friends or because they use the elusive herbal essence shampoo. No, the most interesting people I know plead honesty, can make fun out of a piece of string and could be lying in the gutter....but would still be looking to the stars.

So heres to being who you really are. Whatever colour, shape or form you may take.
And even more the people who know who you are, and like you even more for it.

Dive

Rare it is to see an old school functional diveboard like this at a local outdoor  swimming pool. I cant imagine its very safe, however it gains points for being so rad and dated

zzz

I enjoy the vunerability of the sleeping state. It occurs so perfunctorily our mind barely registers how time and place appropriate the act of sleeping is. Given thats why its so funny seeing it occur outside the general night cap. We sleep because we are sleepy, to avoid, to escape (to our dreams) , to restore, to fill in the time, and if your under the age of 10; because your parents say so.  As essential as food, water and red nail polish ; or if your some technical about it one would include all of Marslows heirarcy of needs into the equation.

Physylogical, safety, love- belonging, self esteem, self actualisation

For the most part sleep puts me in a vexatious situation. I generally dont want to sleep, when im aware of my surroundings and what beats I could be missing . And secondly because I feel like I need to be in complete comfort of the people around me in order to offically let my guard down.

So much coolness occurs due to sleep. Fairytales base whole storylines around this absent conscious state. Self vunerability of the state presents an excellent opportunity for pranksters. Animals avoid whole months at a time by engaging in one massive nap. Cats spend 16 hours a day conserving energy and filling the time, a gratifying life im sure. Though I am informed the time a cat spends napping in no way indicates the lack of boisterous personality of its owner. Phew! The saying ''sleep on it'' indicates that by engaging in sleep, the mind and memory self resores often bringing new light / perspective to a situation.

Bribe and trickery comes into play. Tea, Coffee, Coke, Red bull and a vast range of tablets playing key contributors in fighting the natural urge to doze. I for one am culprit. I like to push myself to the limits and then some, and sleep gets no mercy. I take pride in the whole weekends sans sleep, and by the last few hours tell myself the delerious current state of mind was well worth the sacrifice for the social times to be had. Like the credit card and loan repayments sleep time can be over withdrawn. ''Sleep debt'' is a scientific term used to describe what occurs when sacrifice of sleep is made. Some reasearchers believe that like a credit card the debt will rise, until repayments are made in full. As it is Im currently in serious debt and wondering if my mind will ever forgive me for the harsh lifestyle of disturbed sleep, out of normal hour shiftwork and intense partying thats been visible in the past 3 years of my life. When asked if im a morning person or night creature I generally scratch my head in confusion. I like to stay up all night, the strange night creature that I am, but I also like to bounce out of bed hand in hand with the sun rise, dragging as many of my minions with me as possible.

Probably my reasons for questions sleeps integrity come down to this trusty saying I try to remember;

"There will be sleeping enough in the grave''- Benjamin Franklin

de Cider

Today I suffer a hangover. Not induced by excessive drinking of alcohol but instead the harsh realisation that our good old pal 'beer' is drifting.

It’s a lazy Sunday afternoon. The sun is demanding attention, friends are gathering for one last recap before we lay to rest our social allies for another working week and theres nothing quite so sweet then sitting down with a cold refreshing glass of….. BEER àCIDER, Sundays newest darling.

An article in yesterdays Sunday Telegraph confirmed what I have been dwelling for months, that sadly beer has lost grip as the top grog of lads and dolls alike.

I can’t say im shocked. I've sensed beers absence for the better part of spring/ summer. That bugger 'Bulmers Apple cider' started its world domination on a sly note, first by mimicking the sanguine golden colour and texture of beer so us lemmings wouldn’t even notice our fickle friends at the table next door were in fact cheating on the drink that used to capture our nation. Like ducks to water we were lead astray before we even had the chance to properly cheers each other.

Bars, Pubs and clubs are recognising the global Cider trend, making the bold move to home Bulmers on tap right alongside its beery favourite rival; Carlton Draught. Often Sunday sessions become too much for The Beery and the demand for cider runs dry sending the watering holes occupants into a wild animal frenzy. The ongoing trend is seeing excitement and anticipation amongst young 20 somethings who typically grew up in a beer enthused environment.

“I like cider because the froth doesn’t get stuck in my moe so much when I drink it. I also feel less guilt cos its made with fruit and its better for you. When it comes down to beer and Bulmers…theres just no deCIDER’’- Pistol Pete, surname withheld for privacy reasons

Twas a victorious feat. And as nostalgic it is to say this summer affair with Cider seems to be no one off encounter. Once considered the weak substitute to the legend that is; beer, Cider has well and truly earned its place as a refreshing summer beverage. Congratulations to the ‘largest growing alcoholic beverage in Australia’. Call it the apple of our eye if you must. I say we have a mighty revolution on our hands. This once considered old- folk English tradition has seemingly plopped itself onto the 7.30pm flight departing Heathrow airport direct to Sydney, Australia and isn’t looking back. Coming from Irish heritage I hope to do my ancestors proud as they watch this underdog rise.

And with every rise comes a fall. Beers sales in Australia have dropped by almost 10% in the last 12 months alone. Let us face the facts. The rise in Cider drinkers all round shows a significant mark on the modern day male, not afraid to sparkle things up wether being Apple or Pear in flavour. The days of the male cracking open a can of gut filling VB after a long day are taking a comfortable back seat. Move over stereotypical males of the 90’s and make way for todays metrosexual male. He quite possibly spends more time on his hair than us, Often chooses reality Tv over a game of footy, isn’t afraid of the repercussions when ordering a bright red cocktail at the bar, gets excited when shopping for a new outfit, doesn’t shy aware from hugging same sex friends, jumps up and down in delight mouthing every lyric when KeShas ‘We are who we are’ plays, and has no doubts whatsoever in discussing in detail his deepest and most heartfelt feelings with his man friend, who also carry their feelings around…in one awesome man bag might I add.

Call me old fashioned, but consumption of beer may fall, popularity of cider will rise. But ill be damned if I am going to say sayonara to the thirst quenching beverage of legends for good.  And as much as I am on board the cider train, I still like to look up to those I know who are seldom seen drinking without a (true) coldie in one (or each) hand.  So whatever your choice of beverage, lets not dwell on statistics; for the only winner is the loyal consumer. And if he’s loyal at all…he won’t even recall his actions from the previous night let alone the alcoholic culprit.

Baggage

Today I purchased a backpack large enough to comfortably house myself, and hopefully my cat. No kidding. In true Euro traveller mode I shall attempt to do it in true minimalistic style (tis offical May 6th is judgement day!). Heres looking forward to wearing the first thing that falls from the pile that doesnt smell like beer. Keep your eyes peeled. I'll be the girl consumed by her backpack, holding her oversized map upside down with a lost look on her face whilst attemtping to speak French to some Germans. What jolly fun to be had!

Its time for serious culling.

What possessions could you loose without a side glance?

the long line of material possessions? that oh so precious metaphorical comfort blanket that keeps us constantly warm and fuzzy?  memories? facebook safety in numbers? the friends and family to be left behind? I'm a bit relieved my blog weighs a total of 0 grams. Yep. I can definetly fit that one in my pocket!
 

Lucky the last 6 months has seen me slip into my so called 'Tom boy faze'.

I cant bear to spend waist more than 10 minutes on makeup in one session. Shorts and t shirts has become my standard and when im not whipping my hair back and forth its probably in a messy ass bun or ponytail. ahhhh the simple life. Just call me one of the boys and ill be forever happy. Of course apparently my lack of care for all things girly and fashion as of late will 180 as soon as I catch sight of shopping in London Town.

As for the emotional baggage....could be a bit harder to cull. Im thinking of pouring it into a bottle and watching it float to sea.

I shall leave you with something to ponder for the day;

''People travel to faraway places to watch, in fascination, the kind of people they ignore at home'' - Dagobert D. Runes, Philosopher and friend of Albert Einstein.

Fence

Throw your heart over the fence and the rest will follow 

four letter word

I can not let another Valentines day crawl by without doing my annual reflective post.

Of all the globally recognised days and holidays of the year, this is the one that splits human kind smack down the middle, possibly more so than Christmas and the many religious ways to celebrate it. You either have a valentine or not. As simple as that. By days end those without one would typically be cursing on those that do while those who do are redeeming the benefits of their one day feel special coupon, from the gloatful podium that is 'he loves me'.

'Love'. I prefer it to have the meaning; strong predilection, enthusiasm or liking for anything. A word not to be taking lightly. Universally recognised as the Quintessence of ones affections. The language of love can be understood by all 7 continents and its inhabitants. Many would incoporate the journey of finding love into the meaning of life. Wether it be through doing, people, places, feelings or life objective.

On the scale of feelings from zero to awesome love sits comfortably at the top of the food chain. Eating the hearts of detest, joy and like for breakfast.

Love can be;  sold, given, chosen, gifted, objective, taken, stolen, won, free, found, lost, high or low, in or out, up or down, overlooked, mistaken, beautiful, tragic, ignored, unwanted, inconvienient, powerful, controlling, harmful, weak, strong, flat, colourful, black, white, outstanding, painful, genuine, fake, thoughts, emotions, desires. Or to put it simple; everything.

Falling into the category of one of the doves that has not felt such overwhelming, uncontrollable emotion for a single solitary other, I enjoy dwelling on the concept, wether or not such a concept exists. And quite often; where do I sign up?

My current state of mind tells me that Love is a state of mind.
My other voice is telling me that like the flowers that are deligently delived on such a day, if watered correctly; it will grow. By that theory I mean, if you invoke enough water (attention, will, desire, effort) into the flowers roots (the person) eventually attraction will see fit and voila!; Love grows.

Back to my personal objective; scrutinisng valentines day.

The valentines obsession with females begins in the higher school years.
when February 14th falls on a school day, it is but another excuse to show off similar to the school discos, swimming carnivals and charity mufti days held throughout the year. Cupid (who in our case was Dear Damon dressed in nude man tights) delivers roses to the classroom in the middle of class to ensure an individual receives the ultimate in awe and attention when receiving roses from a boy who more than likely is buttering you up for whats to come behind the hall of the next blue light disco. The Valentinee then carries her flowers cough I mean trophy around all day in a similar manner of worship not seen since Jesus himself was born. And here we have tradition.

Now I see how this looks on my part. Im jealous and gutted for my lack of lifetime valentines right? WRONG. During school days i received few sweet, scribbled under the table love notes (and one A4 page one from a hilarious fellow Earth and Environmental science classmate). My slight detest for the day that is Valentines comes from a fear of commercialism taking over.

My general view of New Years Resolutions are why must change be instigated and enforced on but one certain day, when a good 364 other days lay free and careless and awaiting spontaneity to take over. Valentines day should be the same. I cant think of anything sweeter than someone doing something nice for another just because they 'felt like it', as opposed to because ' commercialism held a metaphorical gun to their head by enforcing a day in which everyone must participate or your considered a harsh and inconsiderate lover'. Affection should never be expected, cost money or be able to be consumed so easily (or am I the only one who notes that chocolate and flowers, the traditional gift of valentinees lasts barely days). Oh and my other point, what about us wee single sisters? Young, true and free. Dont we deserve a day to celebrate what we've found; ultimate comfort in self.

Not by Valentines day rules. Valentines days beckons all to abide, those who choose not to, or are not worthy enough to be chosen are outcasts. Our coupled friends probably pray for us. To, you know, have our shit together and find someone.

As for the age old 'love' equation. I see the purpose is to be a question mark. Like the carrot that leads the horse constantly visibly teasing, just slightly out of reach. And thats the fun right? All this aside heres a couple things that I almost certainly do love, and couldnt possibly be without;
- Bloc partys entire collection  - Spontaneity  - the joy of jumping
- animals  - the friends  - taste  - colour   - words
- freedom - possibilty - laughter - energy from life and of course the incredible and random people that often fill it.

Happy monday everyone.
I hope some of you find inspiration to surprise your special ones on a typical, plain old day of the year next time.

Down with commercialism...and syphillis.

And remember peoples, the flowers may wilt and die, but the genital herpes with kick on forever more.

ex oh ex oh

Dull

Its amusing how the weather often reflects our mood.
One could even go as far as saying the weather has supremacy over our state of mind .
Subconsciously.

As I rolled out of bed today I just knew that erie grey drizzely cloud would tail me from the outdoors to the in till I well and truly hung up my boots for the day. As much as the world screams for you to be this positive happy being, on occassions I find theres no point with insincere smiley faces. Sometimes I find the only thing to do when moments like these rudely invite themselves upon ourselves is to crawl into a little ball, whimper and drown it out with some ridiculously meaninful heartfelt music.

"In 3 words I can sum up everything i've learned about life. It goes on."
- Robert Frost, American poet

Now in complete contradiction to the current state of weather, ill post a photo of the sun. Rise and returning like it always does. Even if it has been a week since its last sneaky glimpse.

Willow

Easily the most under rated tree of the kingdom. The Weeping Willow ;

First there was the Wind in the willows using it in its title, no copyright infrigements noticed as we were too preoccupied with the frog that could speak.
Then there was the salicylic acid derived from the leaves and bark assiting the Native americans as a staple medical treatment. Note; salicylic acid is a precursor of asprin. This little gem was snapped up by the Euros who would then use it commonly in pharmacy whatevers.
Then comes the plantation of the willow for asthetic puposes as well as more ecological ones such as biofiltration, streambank stabilisation, soil erosion control and wildlife habitat. A small number of willows planted in Australia as an erosion control method along waterways ; ie Murray Darling Basin. But sadly are now considered as an invasive weed as the agressive roots expand seeking water. Some willows are kind enough to produce a nectar that bees can make honey from. To top it off Willows are prevalent in English folkore and myths. Willows are believed to be quite sinister, capable of uprooting itself and stalking travellers. - the last two words noted greatly for my upcoming euro trip.

Go willow

plus one

A serious case of blog neglect occurs before our very eyes.
The culprit has zero excuse: Ive been busy at work checking things off my bucket list after the harsh realisation that this year is and will fly by faster than any. So far I can claim to be a 'sk8er boi', embrace refreshing 3am swims fully clothed to escape 34 degree heat and enrolled in the French course ive been promising myself for years. Oh and the old keyboard came out of the roof so I can once again drive my parents car-azy with my sinister upbeat tunes. Of course my actual bucket list is posted on my old blog http://www.fecklessimpressions.blogspot.com/.
After 2 years of feckless it was time for change. Thats right. I was blogging before it was even remotely cool. These days a blog has more power in the media than ever. Not this bloggie though! this bloggy is a wee shy, unsure of herself female much prefering the company of words versus speech. Wether it be through music, dance, speech or words we can express ourselves however we please. No matter what no one can take that away from us. Until I post a nudie photo and have my account shut down that is. As a self confessed social dweeb Im lucky to have this diary like space to get out my thoughts. That way the special few can really see things through my eyes. And God knows I spend too much time with my feet in the sand and head in the clouds to touch base with the real world. I feel like this year will be completly different to any as I prepare to quit my average job and frolick off to a different country where ill have to step out of my precious comfort zone like you would not believe - and for those that know me I stick to my comforts like a dog to its bone. And ill no doubt be telling you all about it in the whimsy way, if youll hear me of course!

Big Day Out screams for a mention.
A day as big as this is difficult to describe. Manic seems like a suitable word.
As unfussed about the lineup as I was I ended up having a smashing time with none other than Kate. I snagged this little one as a euro companion as well, lucky me! My intial thoughts were that in our crew of 2 we were going to stumble about trying to fill the time and vouch to never step foot into another festival without more groupies again. Boy I was wrong. We danced, we bounced, we told each other when the sweat on our face started to look more like tears. Time flew and before I knew it I was thinking how the day couldnt of been any more fun. Even if the inital Australia day celebrations did take a back seat. The moral is do not under estimate the power of 2 manic M.I.A fans at a festival with only each other to cling on to.

I shall leave you with my favourite pic of the day of my one and only skate teacher, Tristan shot on canon fish eye. Please note the long neck hes jumping.
Ive got nothing else to say cept - man that boy can skate!