In My Shoes

"All About Steve"

2012-02-13T18:48:00.002+13:00

I can't believe that I have not updated you on my new additions over the past six months. Whoopsie. For those who care, I have accumulated four new pairs of shoes.

I'll start with the pair that I got first.

They are 'Riddgge', in Blush Patent Leather, by Steve Madden. I saw them yonks ago on a website that posed two issues, they were too darn expensive and they didn't ship to lil ol' NZ. After months (no, seriously) of looking everywhere for an appropriate substitute I trawled and trawled the Internet to try and find a pair. I even tweeted Steve Madden. No, seeeriously.

That's when I came across Endless. And life as I knew it would be forever changed. I highly recommend this site, not only do they have an amazing array of beautiful shoes, but they offer tips that made purchasing shoes online less of a risk. I have wide feet and often have trouble with some styles of shoes. Endless, and its customers told me that this shoe was a true size, and a generous width. So I bought. And Prayed. And perspired a little. Luckily, they were right. I ordered them Tuesday, they were on my feet (comfortably) by midday Saturday. All for $80NZD, which I was more than happy to pay for a leather, Steve Madden shoe shipped from the States (thanks tax return). BOOM.

They have been firm favourites. So much so that I now need to get them re-soled. I always get compliments on them, and a few "where'd you get those from" looks. They are super comfortable and I wear them with basically everything bar my gym gear. Although that would be an interesting look. (Excuse the mingin' feet)

What do you think? Have you acquired any new kicks over the summer?

Jumping on the bandwagon

2012-02-09T12:24:00.001+13:00

I have been fighting a fit of internal range for the past couple of weeks. Teachers College definitely has highlighted these issues, but they've always been there. Waitangi Day and Media/Politics have probably edged it along too.

See, Teachers College effectively crams a vastly diverse group of people together. In my case, we all have different passions and areas of so called 'expertise'. The problem that I have been dealing with is that most of the people that I come in to contact with are from different branches of the tree. I'm not talking about ethnicity, age, gender or intelligence - although those certainly come in to play. I'm talking about open mindedness when it comes to diversities. As far as I know, I am one of the few Maori students in my tutorial class. This doesn't bother me. But I have spent the last three weeks trying to summon the patience to get through comments like "It's so easy to be Mowri these days", "You'll probably get a Scholarship because you're Mowri" and "Why is Mowri culture more taking more prominence than say Asian or Hindu cultures?" "We had intelligent Mowri at our School" and "My school was split in to two groups, Pakeha and Brown people". I've found it really hard.

Pronunciation has been another biggie for me lately. I can't stand to hear about 'Coathanger Rhea' and 'Tay Fareaky'. To me, it completely undermines the very purpose of discussing the topic.

I have spoken to some of my peers, and some staff. All of which have been very supportive and understanding.

I was not going to blog about this. Then I watched this clip.

This got me thinking. Being Maori is not a 'band-wagon'. It's not a free ride. I'm sure if many of my peers had to defend their people, their language and the relevance of their culture in this country every day, I'm sure they'd know that it's anything but easy. It hurts. And to imply that I get preferential treatment because of this, is not only hurtful but it's ignorant.

So please, think before you speak, or type. And if you still think that it's a breeze to be Maori, go read a book. If you need recommendations, I'd be happy to oblige.

30 PSC: Day Twenty Five - "One of those faces I suppose?"

2012-02-01T18:50:00.002+13:00

Day 25 - A song that makes you laugh.

This song not only cracks me up, but it reminds me of my sister. Also reminds me of the time when I was working in town Brett came in to the store and my boss got him to sign a piece of paper to send to a family member who was a big fan. If I recall correctly, the piece of paper was scrappy which is funny to me...paper, paper everywhere but still nothing clean to sign on. Jermaine Clements and Taika Waititi came in once too and I got to serve them. They were so nice, Jermaine even called me "Nix" after leaning in to read my name badge (which is a nickname my highschool friends call me). Taika was really friendly and polite, and Jermaine was as awkward as I expected him to be. I was excited to serve them...even if I thought Taika was that guy from Opshop. He wasn't. I sent Taika a tweet once telling him about my faux pas - he didn't find it amusing. Sorry Taika, you're far cuter, and far more famous than 'that guy' from OpShop. I guess he's just got one of those faces. Anyway...the song really is a gem, and I am really fond of the lines "we talked about how the lights from the buildings and cars seemed like reflections of the stars, that shone out so pretty and bright...". GOLD.

"Never Change"

2012-01-27T20:48:00.000+13:00

I have just finished my first week of Teachers College. I am zonked. And stressed. We have our first test this Monday and a rather hefty assignment due the following week. The assignment requires a lot of reflection on our own education and contextual contributors. Naturally, this has me thinking. When I think about all of the shitty hands I've been dealt over the years I often feel sorry for myself, wish I had a different childhood or just feel like I missed out on some experiences. None of that matters now. My education, my childhood, the good the bad and the ugly - it all lead me here. I'd never change that. Although I'm stressed out I finally feel I'm in exactly the right place, at exactly the right time.

My Pretties

2012-01-18T15:31:00.002+13:00

Here are some bits and bobs from around my house that I am loving at the moment. Most of these were lovely gifts from Christmas.

Rob Ryan - Four Season Plates.

I first saw these when my friend Brooke showed me hers. I fell in love with them and promptly put them on my Christmas wish list. Brad's parents gifted them to me and they have been hanging proudly on our wall in the living room ever since. Not only is the hand-cut stencil work amazing and intricate but the images are sweet and the words are good reminders to enjoy the beautiful things we have to enjoy everyday.

Paper Lanterns. They're not just for parties and weddings. And I know they're called 'lanterns' but I think they look cool even without a light.

'You know now', print by Flox.

A couple of months ago a dear friend and I went to the Fly My Pretties IV concert. Each of their songs is accompanied by an animated work of art and captured in a print. My Mum bought me this one as the Huia bird has special significance to me. I really like the slightly retro vibe it's throwing out also. Since being introduced to Flox's work I have the urge to ask about getting one of her pieces tattooed on my back. For reals.

Also, because it arrived late they sent my Ma postcard versions of all of the art works, two of which are now in my hallway. A few more will be going up this week, because they are too darn cute to stay in the office drawer.

Cupcake tealight candle holders. How cute? I was given a set of four for Christmas from my step-Grandparents.

Home-made cushion covers.

My Mum got me on to buying pieces of scrap fabric from Guthrie Bowron. Most of them are $1 and are big enough to make a cushion or two. Oh and European Pillows. They make reading in bed so. much. easier.

Do you have any new things in your house Christmas?

"Somewhere between the blue and the green, further than far can be"

2012-01-16T21:18:00.000+13:00

Oh Waiheke. You were everything I wanted you to be. A break. An excuse to eat naughty food. A reason to swim every morning, and staying in until my skin was pruned. Reflecting on old memories and making new ones. Swimming without board shorts over my swimsuit. Wine. Organic Crepes. Mudbrick. Lazy days in the sunshine. Trying new things. Good music. Breakfast overlooking the water each morning. Sleep. Laughter. Love.

"Goodnight Moon"

2012-01-09T22:16:00.003+13:00

It is officially Birth-iversary season. Oh yes.
It's pretty safe to say I will be too busy to blog this week. Wishing you all a great week on this beautiful night.
Goodnight!

"Should auld acquaintance be forgot, and never brought to mind? "

2012-01-01T11:35:00.001+13:00

Happy New Year! Hello 2012.

Christmas and of course News Year's always marks for me a time of reflection. Not only upon the past year, but also of all of the Christmases and New Years that came before. For me, it's like they are a benchmark of my life. Most of my dearest memories revolve around the festive season, and the sad ones are highlighted by this time of year too. My memory is foggy, but I'm pretty that it was the last Christmas before my Nan started Chemo, that my sister was given a Barbie doll, which came with hair mascara. In fact, all of Nan's granddaughters were given hair mascara for Christmas that year. We had gone for a walk late Christmas afternoon and when we returned we found Nan in the kitchen, with a bright blue stripe through her grey hair. We thought it was awesome. And thinking back, in my own emotionally warped memory it was probably one of the last times that I saw her that happy as she giggled at our shocked reactions. And possibly the last time until she finished chemo that I saw her with hair.

Christmas and New Year's mean different things for each Family, for some it's religion, for others its giving and receiving and for many it's just a day where you get to pig out. For me it is a slice of all of these things and much more. This time of year marks the closing of a chapter of my life, and the beginning of a new one in my mind. I reflect a lot, and not just on the past year. It's like I skim through all of my previous chapters, edit the way I want the past chapter to read and look forward to what the next will bring - all because of this time of year.

The last year has been an interesting one, full with a heap of good things and a few cruddy ones. I finished my degree, got to watch my beautiful God-Daughter grow in to a little girl, strengthened the relationships that matter and tried to save a few that were sinking ships, only to realise it was time to let them go. As those doors closed, the door was left open for new friends to come in to my life. I lost 25kg, and am looking forward to kicking the next 15kg. I got in to Teacher's College, and although I am scared, I am looking forward to adding a new angle to my book of life, and revealing another sphere of myself. I've been learning to drive. Lots of love ran it's course, and some friends declared their love with marriage. I have a better relationship with my parent's. I was really sad that my sister moved to a place which is far less accessible than ever before. I was angry at myself for that when I realised how happy she is there. I've seen loved ones hurt as they support their friends down mean, bumpy, unfair roads. I've seen loved ones support their friends through the happiest life changing moments. I've watched friends triumph and fail, celebrated their joy and saw them endure great sorrow and I'm glad I was a part of their stories, to be there to hold their hands for all of it.

As I get older I'm starting to feel like I've got things a bit more figured out. With each year, I learn more about who I am and how to be the person I want to be. I'm no longer the person who has space for people in their life that merely create plot twists, drama and suspense, but they're in many previous chapters of my life, and even if they no longer have a starring role, they are part of my journey, and I'm kind of thankful for that in a weird twisted way. In this new year those auld acquaintance's won't be forgotten, but 2012 marks a new beginning. New goals, new adventures, new friends, and new things to love about the old ones. I can't wait.

"Four Christmases"

2011-12-29T22:44:00.000+13:00

Four Christmases, in photo's. Well technically only three, because I was too full/tired/busy having fun to remember to take any at the fourth, with Brad's Family, not to mention the Fifth with my Nan and Uncle. And seeings that here in New Zealand, it was a Christmas that bore weather which I like to dub of the 'retro' variety, I've given most of these pics a retro finish. You know, the good ol' days weather...L&P, TipTop Trumpets, stinkin' hot, backyard cricket, stubbies and singlets weather? Yes it was.

Hope you all had a lovely day. We sure did.

"The Little Things"

2011-12-22T10:06:00.001+13:00

We have just returned from Auckland, where we spent two awesome nights for Brad's childhood friend David and his beautiful wife Amanda's wedding. We had a great time, despite getting little sleep and being scratchy on the way home. We also spent Saturday celebrating the marriage of another couple Tim and Michelle. Both weddings were beautiful, each of the Bride's stunning and both filled with an out pouring of love to and from the couple.

There really is nothing quite like a wedding to get you thinking about love. I marveled at our friend's bravery, as they stood in front of their families and friends and shared their love for each other and their excitement for the future. For one of the male guests sitting with us at Tim and Michelle's nuptials this proved to be overwhelming as he later disclosed to me that he now has "wedding fever" (but ssshhh...don't tell his girlfriend). It really is an amazing thing to experience, two people pledging to always love each other with such certainty. And it got me to thinking, to be able to say with hope and certainty that you will spend your life always loving one person, it takes more than just Love. It takes a lot of trust. And until this weekend I'd never thought about that before, which is quite weird considering how long Brad and I have been together. And aside from having to endure the annoying "you'll be next?" comments at weddings and engagement parties (which fyi: we won't be) I am more than happy to enjoy the everyday 'mini' declarations of love. Like last week when Brad and I spent some time with our friend Hannie, who is not only an amazing person but a fantastic photographer.

"O Christmas Tree"

2011-12-15T22:12:00.003+13:00

I have been the proud owner of a DSLR camera for almost two years now, and I am ashamed to say that I have not had the time nor the patience to teach myself how to properly use the manual settings. So last night I decided to give it a go. I took this picture of our Christmas tree.

I was pretty happy. I mean, you can see the glow of the lights with minimal blur. Then I remembered that I had seen Angela of Striking Keys, pin something quite cool. Nek Minit, I'm on the computer looking for it. On seeing this pin again I decided that I owed it to myself and my camera to give the easy instructions a whirl.

Ok so it's not as good as the one in the pin. But I think it's fun! What does your Christmas tree look like this year?

In the nude

2011-12-14T18:12:00.000+13:00

I've talked before about how much I love Nude's shoes. And the lovely electric blue peep toes featured in my heading are also Nude pretties. So you can imagine my delight today when I checked my facebook to find that I am the day two winner of their '12 days of Christmas' promotion. Nude Footwear are giving away a different fabulous shoe every day, for the next ten days to one lucky facebook follower. All I had to do was recount my most memorable Christmas memory in 25 words or less. As one friend kindly pointed out - this was the hardest part for me (who can get quite wordy if you haven't already noticed).

So my most memorable Christmas memory is also one of my earliest, and seeings as the competition stipulated that I had 25 words or less to do it in, I thought I'd give you the full length version. I was about three years old. I had opened presents with my parents at our family home in Martinborough, and had gone round to my grandparents place. My Aunts and Uncles and their kids were there, and I was excited to see them. I entered in to the living room, and in the fireplace, Nan had put two gumboots, to look as if Santa was stuck. I was not down with that. Enter toddler freak out. Exit stage left for Nan's creative decorations. This got me thinking. Who was it that come up with the idea that a fat, old man in a red suit breaking in to your house, through the fireplace was a good idea? If you ask me, it's a bit freaky.

But I am nonetheless grateful for the ~~trauma~~ experience, especially as it has now led me to a beautiful pair of shoes. I think it's quite fitting that the best pair of shoes I remember my Nan having were some big chunky platform pumps, and that the pair I shall be receiving are platforms too. I wonder if Nan would like them? I like to think she would.

...And Nan, if you're watching please look out for me when I'm walking around in these babies, because they are so high!

30 PSC: Day 24 - "Pools of sorrow, waves of joy"

2011-12-14T17:44:00.003+13:00

Day 24 - a song that you want to play at your funeral.

Since I first heard this song (when I was eleven) I have been in love with it. It's not necessarily sad but this rendition is so beautiful. It makes me think of a spirit caught on a breeze, floating through the air watching it's loved ones. Of course I love the Beatles original, but this cover is infectious.

"There, I just said it..."

2011-12-09T12:09:00.001+13:00

I've been thinking a lot lately about the meaning of life. As you do. Not so much of the 'what happens after we die', or the I've had too many wines variety, but rather a general 'what is the point?' And because no one really has an answer (that I personally can whole heartedly agree with) I've decided that what I want most out of my life, other than to have it filled with happiness and love, is to leave a mark when I leave. Hopefully in the form of children, as I feel that leaving a generation line of good people is one of the greatest ways to change the world, and one of the greatest gifts you can both receive from and give to the world.

When Mum was sick I did a lot of thinking about this sort of stuff, and about dying I guess. After a lot of reflection I guess my own personal greatest fear is to be forgotten. It seems selfish in a way, but it's true. And it is hard to say. But my biggest fears aren't to not complete a Bucket List, but instead to leave this earth and to be forgotten or have made no mark. I know that I take the memory of my lost loved ones along with me, and in that way they are not forgotten. I guess one of the reasons I want to teach is that I want to make a difference. Cheesy I know. But if I become the teacher that I want to be, and I can help students reveal their potential, then that to me is a gift that keeps on giving. It is not being forgotten. Education transcends generations.

Come January 20th I will begin my postgraduate diploma in secondary teaching. I am beyond thrilled.

"I've heard time can heal almost anything"

2011-12-05T20:05:00.001+13:00

Some people say that the easiest way to get over a love is to learn how to love again. I miss my Tinkerbell, and so does Shiya, Mum's dog.

Our answer?

Meet Tyson

He is a 15 week old bundle of love.

I have made space for him in my heart already - and I've only seen him twice. When I first met him he acted all excited and pleased to see me, and he loves kisses (something I'm not a fan of).

But how could you say no to that face?

"Tagging"

2011-12-03T18:33:00.001+13:00

I am supposed to be on my way to Wellington right now, to help celebrate a friends Birthday. Instead I'm at home nursing a killer headache, that has been on and off buggin' me for the past few days. I've drugged myself up and am at home trying to distract myself from thinking about all the fun I'm missing out on. I jumped on to Pinterest and had a look at some gift wrapping ideas. I liked these ones the best:

source

Then I went on a hunt for cute tags. I love the tags in the second image but I wanted something more personal. So I looked on Pinterest for name meaning gift tags. Found nothing. So, I made my own. I'm sure that there are far more crafty people out there with better fonts, better stocks, and cute vintage layouts...but I lack the time, patience, skill and funds to get there myself. So here they are. My name meaning and history gift tags.

What do you think?

Pin It

"Queen Of My Heart"

2011-12-01T10:50:00.001+13:00

Last week I arrived home to some bad news. My dear cat Tinkerbell had passed away, after being hit by a car. My poor little kitty. Well..she wasn't exactly little. I had first got her as a kitten, when I was eleven years old. Tinkerbell broke the pattern, after having a string of pets who had, run away, been run over or mysteriously died (or those budgies that somehow made it out of their cages and out the window?). We first were given Tinkerbell after my kitten Licorice (a birthday present from my Dad) had run away. She was a weirdo from the get go, and Kelsey and I loved her. She had kittens quite early (scandelous neighbourhood teen Mum), and she was a mean Mum. She refused to feed them, we had to literally hold her down. I think that may have had something to do with man handling the babies too early...whoops. Post Kitten adoption we sent her off to be fixed. Bitch pulled her own stitches out. Scuze the language..but there is no other word to describe how she was sometimes. She was a diva, a Queen and she loved to let you know it. Kelsey would force her to cuddle, holding her like a baby, Tink would first fight, then permit the affection for a short period of time only. She would then give off warning signs and then of course attack. When Mum & Darren got their puppy Shiya we all wondered how Queen Tink would handle having to share her realm. She was not impressed in the least by a bounding zealous puppy. After the first week of Shiya's arrival, I clearly remember her getting a little too close for Tinkerbell's comfort. Tink pet her butt high in the air, and her head and front paws down. Shiya recognised this pose, as one she herself does when playing, so she too excitedly did the play pose. The look on Tinkerbells face as she swiped Shiya's nose was one of pity for the poor inferior canine. Hilarious. But they soon figured out a way to live with each other, and in fact I think they even liked having each other around. Shiya certainly did, ever since Tink has been gone she's been moping round the house all sad faced.

I will miss Tinkerbell so much. I cuddled her through many a bad time, and its strange to think that she was there though my pre-teen and teenage years, and even a little of my adulthood. Heck she was around when this song came out! She had the cutest fat face and amazing big yellow eyes. She was the longest pet I ever had. She was a stone cold weirdo and fitted in to our family quite nicely. She was a diva of Dianna Ross proportions, more of a Queen than Stanford Blatch and Helen Mirren put together, and even though she was a biarch we loved her. I can just imagine as Tinkerbell crossed the road on that fateful day, she was probably thinking "I don't need to look both ways - don't you know who I am?". A Queen til the very end.

"It's fo free"

2011-11-29T20:25:00.001+13:00

One day my friend MK turned up at my house, to drag me off to the gym. On her arrival she proclaimed that she had seen a garden bar outside someone's house with a "Free" sign on it. I quickly asked why we weren't on our way to claim it already. And claim we did. The owner even dropped it off for us. This is what she looks like.

Yup...retro..and not n a cute way. SO she's getting a face lift. Stay tuned.

Found

2011-11-25T09:29:00.001+13:00

I started at Victoria University, Wellington in 2007, taking mainly Maori Studies, Philosophy and Media papers. By the end of the year I swiftly changed my Majors, and accepted that like many other undecided BA students, it would take a little longer to finish thanks to my year of finding-my-subjects-feet. I cried a whole heap about not fulfilling my dream of being a Maori Studies major. It hurt. It still hurts.

2008 started off well, until I became, well...unwell. Enter Glandular Fever. I barely passed anything that last trimester, putting me dead in line for academic probation and limited fulltime study, meaning that I could only take a select few papers, with the Dean's approval.

2009 looked to be more promising. It began ok. But by the second trimester I was struggling with my PCOS, and finding it all a bit too much. Then my Mum was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. That was it for me. I had to check myself, before I wrecked myself. I took two trimesters off not only to be with Mum, but I knew I was headed down a dark road, if I continued to try and keep going.

By mid 2010 I was back at uni - and loving it. I was also loving the fact that I proved so many people wrong. It was plainly obvious on the faces of so many people that they thought I would never go back, using Mum's illness as the ultimate excuse. In your face nay sayers! I studied over the summer to make up some lost time too. That was a good year for me. After failing so much and then withdrawing it was reassuring to not only pass every paper I took, but to do above average in all but one. I was pleased. I also found, or made space for non-language Maori Studies paper.

2011 the best year of the lot. Not only because it was to be my last year, but because I did well in English. I got a letter inviting me to do Honours signed by a man who made no secret of doubting my abilities. I found friends that I think will be keepers, who bring something to my life that was otherwise missing. I found and fell in love with Pacific Literature and found a part of myself in the process. I found my heart and soul in poetry. I finally had found my feet. And I found out today that I passed.

I have finally completed my degree.

Man that feels strange to say.

After 5 years of on and off study I have finally knocked the bastard off!

And what an interesting ride it has been.

"Line Up"

2011-11-23T22:40:00.001+13:00

Following my post asking for beauty tip requests my inbox was inundated with tips on how to apply eyeliner. My gal pal Serenity is a qualified Beauty Therapist, and has worked in many areas of the Beauty industry.

For her first guest post, she is going to address different types of eyeliners, and their uses, as well as giving you some easy to follow instructions on one type of eyeliner. Welcome Serenity!

There are many types of eyeliners on the market, and it can be confusing when it comes to choosing the right type, in order to achieve your desired look. Here is a quick rundown on the different types available.

Liquid liners – These will come in little tubes with either a thin brush or a felt-pen like tip. This variety is perfect for creating a bold cat’s eye look, or a classic 50’s pinup look.

Cream/Gel liners – These typically come in pots which can be applied with a thin liner brush or an angled brush. Again, this form of eyeliner is great for cat’s eye and pinup looks.

You can also utilise cream/gel to create a beautiful smoky eye with a bit more intensity than a standard pencil liner would. Creams and gels are extremely easy to smudge and blend to customise the look you want – But as with all things, start with less and add to it if needed – Adding is easy, removing? Yeah, not so much.

Pencil/Khol liners – This is the kind of liner than we are most typically comfortably with, as it is tried and true and fairly user-friendly (if Kate Middleton can do it on her Wedding Day, I’m pretty sure you lovelies are more than capable).

You can use a pencil eyeliner on the waterline of your eye, which you can’t do with other varieties.

Always sharpen your pencils regularly, as it is breeding ground for bacteria which can cause eye infections, sties and other nasties.

Warming your pencil by rolling it between your palms or drawing on the back of your hand will ensure that the lead is nice and soft, which will mean less dragging on the delicate skin around the eye area.

Step by Step pencil liner

Today we used Nicole's personal eyeliner 'Define-A-Line' by Maybelline, which you can get at most supermarkets for around $15. In the instructional photographs, I asked Nicole to follow my directions and apply it herself, so you can see how it looks applied by a person who has no training or a lot of practice.

1. Holding lid taught, take your pencil and start drawing along the lash line (as close as you can) starting at the outer corner of the eye, working your way to the inner third of the eye.

2. Once this is done, you can take either a cotton tip or a smudger (98% of pencil liners have these attached to the end of the pencil) and using soft, feather light strokes, blend into the lash line to soften.

3. Follow the same technique on the lower lash line.

4. Wipe excess liner off waterline of eye with a cotton tip, if necessary. You can use a cotton tip to tidy up any over-smudged areas and excess liner.

Let us know how you go, and don't forget to email any requests for tips through to inmyshoes.nicole@gmail.com.

Until next time!

"Now that I have seen, I am responsible"

2011-11-23T09:16:00.001+13:00

As an Asthma sufferer, I know how difficult it is to stay healthy during the winter in a damp house. It's an uphill battle. Last night when I watched the Inside New Zealand Child Poverty special my heart bled for the families living in mouldy, damp state housing. Families in low socio-economic circumstances, trying to give their children the best start possible are clearly put on the back foot by the very same service that aims to aid and assist them.

Then there is health care. Much needed health care, for the issues that were caused or accelerated by the appalling living situations. Can somebody please explain to me how it is that as a "youth" or a student, I have access to free health care at at least four different health care centers in the Wellington Region, yet there are children with the stirrings of Rheumatic Fever who are sitting in their cold, damp, mouldy houses, because there parents can't afford to pay to take them to see a Doctor, or to after-hours care? How is this fair? I would gladly give up my right to free health care, if it meant those children had the resources allocated to their health.

I am not totally wide-eyed when it comes to these issues. I think in a way, we all knew that the issues that this report highlighted existed. Maybe we didn't realise how bad things were for some children. Maybe we did, but chose not to believe it until it was made painfully unavoidable in this documentary.

Well now we have seen, we are all responsible. I pray that the waves of this documentary do not just fade out in the coming weeks. I hope that this issue is something we as adults consider when we vote this weekend, because we the people cannot change this without the Governments help. Yes, this issue should not be used as a political pawn, it is so much more important. But many of the policies already in place are holding the children of this country back, instead of giving them a helping hand. I hope that there are businesses out there who are willing to donate to schools like Russell School, so that the children of this nation are healthy, not hungry, warm, dry and happy. As I sit and type this from the comfort of my double-glazed, hot air-pumped house, all I can think of that is left to say is that it is time for us to take responsibility.

"Strip away the fat that's clogging up your mind"

2011-11-22T10:08:00.001+13:00

It seems to me that there is so much advice out there on how to lose weight. I found it quit overbearing when I was trying to figure out my best plan of attack. For me weight loss is half what you do and half how you think. It is a mind game, just as much as it is a physical one.

Lately, I have been bumping in to a lot of people that I haven't seen in a while. They usually say "you're looking good" or something to that effect. I always say thankyou and tell them how much I've lost. The next thing they almost always say is "How are you doing it?!" Well, I'm doing Weight Watchers Online. I love it. I love being accountable to myself and not a group of people at meetings. I would never have the confidence to go to regular meetings. Nor do I have the time or the patience to get in to a Dr Phil situation listening to other people's stories. I was just mentally ready to get down to it. And I would highly recommend it. Lately, a lot of people have been asking for more details, how I stick to the plan and what I eat and how I exercise. Here are some tips I have picked up along the way, or have found to work for me.

1. Do not deprive yourself. Most days I have a funsize chocolate bar. They're little, but big enough to give me that chocolate fix, which stops me from going and buying a mega Snickers bar and scoffing it. Crunchies, Freddo's and Perky Nana's have been favourites in our house. Little packets of Chippies (you know, the ones people give their kids for school lunches?) are good too. Minimal amount of points for me and satisfying.

2. Most vegetables and all fruit are zero points on my plan. This means never being hungry. I can eat as much of this as I need to be full. Carrot sticks and celery have been awesome uni snacks. And you bet I am loving that strawberries are in season at the moment. Mmmm nature's candy.

3. Water is a must. A personal trainer told me recently that I should be drinking at least 2Litres a day. That is a heap. But she's right. I feel like I think clearer, feel fuller faster and have more energy when I have the correct amount of water each day.

4. I am addicted to fizzy drink, thanks to the influence of Brad. Luckily I can have as much sugar-free soft drink that I like. Coke Zero, Diet Coke, Sprite Zero have been obvious staples. Sugar-free Red Bull's, Bundaburg's and L&P are welcomed variations.

5. Peanut Butter is the calorie devil. I would not recommend having more than 1/2 a TBSP a day if you're trying to drop weight. Trust me.

6.Wendy's Frozen Yoghurt with Banana's and Berries is going to be an awesome summer treat.

7. Plan, plan and plan some more. We have a whiteboard in our kitchen that holds all our meal plans, who is cooking it and a shopping list. It is pivotal.

8. Leftovers for lunch are also awesome, because if you're cooking a healthy dinner, you know you have an easy, yummy and healthy lunch the next day.

"High"

2011-11-19T15:00:00.001+13:00

I'm finally finished exams and assessments and last night I headed out to see 'Fly My Pretties' with my friend MK. I was very excited. Yesterday we caught up with Erica, Josh & Aaliah, and Erica (naturally) asked what I had planned to wear out. We looked through my shoe collection, and chose my sparkly peep toes. Aaliah definitely agreed. In fact she took quite a liking to them.

In My Shoes..literally.

So exams are over. And I am just waiting on results, and hopefully an offer of study for a Postgraduate Diploma in Secondary Teaching. I haven't had much time to ponder what exactly I will do If I don't get in. Right now, I'm focusing on trying to re-learn how to relax, and enjoying just being. I feel like my soul has taken this past week and tried to re-charge itself after a really stressy time. Last night was actually the first time where I felt completely relaxed. MK and I headed to One Red Dog for dinner and wine. The concert was beyond amazing, and you can definitely pick up where the new cast members have had a big influence with lots of their tracks sounding a bit more rock, a bit more bluesey and all-in-all a little bit retro. Which I love! Now just to patiently wait until February for the album to be released. Tick....tock. In the meantime I am looking very much forward to getting back in to blogging, painting and some cool outdoor projects and re-connecting with you lovely bloggy friends. I also have a really busy time ahead with two weddings the weekend before Christmas, one on Saturday in Kapiti, one on Monday in Auckland. Busy times, but cannot wait to celebrate love with some very special people. Now...to see to that Christmas Shopping...

"So...you juggle"

2011-11-03T09:31:00.001+13:00

Last night my lovely friend Juju shouted me to the movies (as her lovely friend who lives in Napier won four tickets to a movie in Wellington). We saw 'I don't know how she does it'. Thanks Juju! It wasn't the greatest movie, but it had some solid ideas, and observations. One of these that struck a cord with me the most was "The List". In the ~~film~~ movie, Sarah Jessica Parker's character Kate claims that "The List" is something that all working women, with children do (you can see an example in the trailer). I beg to differ, I think that it's something that most women do. Well at least, it is something that this woman does.

Things on my List or just on mind today:

Read four novels by Thursday week for ENGL330 exam

Wash the floors

Petra Bagust annoys me. Petra on Sarah Jessica Parker: "I had no idea that she had three kids, and that one of them was twins"....Aaah they're not conjoined. Can you count?

Clean the spare room, for Dad's arrival this Friday

E-mail Nic back

Ring health insurance provider

Find 3 different dresses for the 3 weddings I have coming up

Find the money to buy them

Find the time and energy to go to the gym, so that you can fit in to the dresses

Book flights for wedding #2

Follow up with friend on joint accommodation possibility for wedding #2

Find that pattern

Finish painting for Scottie

Book photos with Hannie

Take photo's of Patti & Kayla

Take photo's of Nicola and family

Remind Brad to pick up Birthday gift for brother-in-law

Bake

Chip off mountain of laundry

Plan girls night for late November

Refine Christmas plans

Blog more

Plan something for dinner for Saturday night with Maria and Emma

What's on your list?

"In to Temptation"

2011-10-28T23:04:00.001+13:00

I have been so busy with exams and preparing for a work conference (held this weekend) that I've hardly had an inspiration, or time to blog.

But I have found something that I want to share with you. This website is so so great. I stumbled upon it when I was looking to buy a lipstick online and wanted to compare colours. This website gives you not only swatches but also has a percentage rated "dupe list" and a foundation matrix. If you like expensive cosmetics, but want the look for less, this site will tell you the way to go about it, and what you can expect to get for your money. Awesome.

A few months ago I splashed out and bought a new lipstick from MAC. I love the colour, and I used my affection for the colour to warrant me spending $40 on a lipstick. Tonight I typed MAC 'Rebel' in to Temptalia's "Dupe List" and got told that Wet'n'Wild's colour 'Sugar Plum Fairy' is a 90% match for my $40 lipstick, with the 10% difference accounting for a different texture/finish, and slightly less pigmentation. If you're a cosmetic junkie you might not care that Wet'n'Wild are considerably cheaper, but if you are among the group of my readers that are cautiously experimental with bold colours, welcome to your cheat sheet. You can try out the latest cosmetic trends, without having to splurge your savings. My advice is to pop in to your closest fancy department store, or chemist and ask to try on colours, get the make-up artist to write down the names and head home to check them out on Temptalia.

Give me a week or so to try out the foundation matrix, and I'll get back to you!

"Meet me halfway"

2011-10-09T22:18:00.002+13:00

Hello, hello! I hope everyone is well and has enjoyed their weekend. I cannot watch any more rugby. It is too nerve racking, so here I am.

We are at Brad's folks place tonight and whilst I was uploading some pictures to put on to facebook I came across some holiday pics, that were taken in Papamoa at the beginning of March. This was a week before I started on my weight loss plan.

A few people had left comments and were so sweet to email me with words of encouragement after my last weight loss post. Thank you so much, you are all so lovely. A few people asked for 'before & after' photo's. I have to say I was not all that enthused by the idea, because people can be mean. I didn't want people to look at the photos and think "she doesn't look like she's lost that much". But I came across a photo tonight that is a shocker. Granted it is taken at a bad angle. My hair isn't done and I have not a scrap of makeup on. It also looks like I've been out in the sun all day long. Quite possible.

SO here it is, not for the haters, but for all of those who have been so supportive. Your kind words mean more than you know. X

Ugh it is embarrassing just to look at that.

And because I am nowhere near finished here is a what we could call a 'halfway' shot. (Taken using the web cam out of sheer laziness sorry).

An Apple a day

2011-10-06T22:16:00.002+13:00

I've just put my essay away. I have a wee way to go before hand in tomorrow, but I'm at that point where I just need to stop, before I start rambling. So I thought I'd come on here and ramble instead, where I'm not officially graded.

Today as you know, Steve Jobs passed away. I am not a huge techy-wizz. I am not even a huge Apple fan. But what I've been thinking about tonight, following the news of his passing (other than the C-Word is a biatch), is creation.

I started thinking about my iPod. They are so common now, they seem at first thought 'nothing special'. What we don't see when we hold our iPods, iPads or iPhones is the countless hours of work that went in to it. We don't remember that someone thought this up. Then my head starts to spin. It's not just Apple products, or amazing technology that show the great possibilities of human creativity. It can be seen all around us. Things we take for granted every day. A post-it. A sewing machine. A poem. A coffee mug. A song. All of these are great examples of what we, as creative beings are capable of. All of these things are the manifestation of their inventors greatest dreams. They are all victories. For their creators, for you and me, and for many generations to come.

I think it's really fitting to reflect on Steve Jobs' accomplishments, his most brilliant, revolutionary technological advancements, that boggle the minds of people like me, and know that at the root of all of it lies creativity. And although he will always be remembered for revolutionizing modern technology, every day when I see an iPod I will try to remember that with creativity, our wildest dreams are possible.

30 PSC: Day Twenty Three - "Dreams come true"

2011-10-05T20:11:00.000+13:00

Day 23: A song you want to play at your wedding.

Easy.

I could go through all of the really emotion ones that I would like, but I think this is one of many that I like the most, because it is just so filled with joy and fun. To me if you're going to pledge to spend the rest of your life with someone, you better know how to have fun together.

Isn't this lipdub cool?

"It is more fun to talk with someone who doesn't use long, difficult words but rather short, easy words like "What about lunch?"”

2011-10-04T12:57:00.002+13:00

On Friday night I got in after having a casual catch up with Erica and her sisters and I wasn't feeling that great. I've been having pesky issues with my right ovary...yet again. So feeling groggy and tired we decided to stay in for the night. I took the opportunity to get a head start on making some Birthday Cupcakes for my friend Brooke. We had planned to go in to town the next day to go ice-skating and we could drop them off before hand to save me lugging them up to Uni on Wednesday (and so that Brooke wouldn't have to Scooter home with them). I quartered the recipes and got to work.Yeah so you can tell that the piping gets worse as it goes on (you can blame my hormones for that too)

I jumped on Pinterest for some Pinspiration and this is how I intended to box 'em up...

Source: realsimple.com via Nicole on Pinterest

OK...so mine isn't as pretty as this, but I think I did alright for a first attempt*. What do you think?

Today is Brooke's Birthday and it's just as well we did the delivery on Saturday as Sunday was a write-off, yesterday I had more tests and today isn't so jolly either.

Happy Birthday Brooke! I am so thankful to have a friend at uni that is in most of my classes. It is so helpful having a friendly face to turn to when you need clarification, or to bounce ideas off of. This past year at uni has been one of the most fun yet and I truly believe that it has a lot to do with your beautiful, smiley presence. It is so refreshing to have someone to discuss things with without all the pomp and pretentiousness that you can come across at uni. Whether you're falling up stairs, arranging a lunch date, butchering words like 'mimicry' or emailing me your essay to look over - it is awesome having you around. Have a lovely day and superb Birthday week! X

*My only regret is being to tired to remember to use two different coloured papers for the chocolate cupcakes. Darn!

30 PSC: Day 22 - "Little Girl Blue"

2011-09-27T16:20:00.000+13:00

So I am closing in on my last three weeks of the trimester. It's busy. Of course, because I have other things I need to do, I just want to blog instead. Hopefully my 30 PSC will get me bogging at least once a week until exams are over then I can breathe.

"Day" Twenty Two - A song you listen to when you're sad. So easy. Here are a few of my sob songs. Feel free to leave me some comment loving, letting me know what yours are!

Little Girl Blue - Janis Joplin
Chiquitita - ABBA. Haha. I know. It reminds me of my sister (we used to sing this...a lot), and If I'm feeling sad and lonely, this reminds me of her. That makes me feel comforted and even more sad at the same time.
Let it be - The Beatles. We used to sing this at primary school. Even from the first time I heard it, I knew I would love it forever.

Hide and Seek. I love this song, I think it is beautiful. I listened to it on repeat for hours when I was going through a rough patch. Still beautiful. I love this acapella version too.

"Ahhh...push it"

2011-09-19T19:29:00.000+12:00

So I am about to hit the 20kg mark for my weight loss. I have found this last 5kg probably the hardest of all of the weight. My weight has plateaued and I have shaken up my diet (a little) and now I need to ahhh..push it at he gym. I have been going more regularly - which is a good thing. But I'm starting to get really pissy with my gym.

First of all, I have noticed that there has been an influx of younger men at the gym, some of them buff, some of them with the hopes of becoming buff. Now, lots of ladies would probably see this as a pro for hitting the gym. For me it is no such thing. You would think you were walking in to a boys locker room. They all stand around talking shite and doing there best to look tough and buff. I cannot count how many times I have felt like calling out from my possie on the bike to yell a panty "Are you here for a work out or a gossip ladies?!"

I usually wouldn't care so much, if I didn't have to navigate my way through the hulk-wannabes to find a swiss-ball. Which brings me to my next point. Every second day at the gym, after my cardio work out I head upstairs to the mat area. I grab a swiss-ball and do some exercises upstairs - away from the weight machines. Every single time this week I have dragged myself from cardio up the stairs to find that there is only one swiss-ball up there - and it is in use. Down the stairs I go. Through the gossip guys. Find a ball. Back through the gossip guys. Back up the stairs.

Tonight I was particularly peeved. I had finished my cycling programme and was waiting for a cross-trainer to become free. I waited. I waited some more. Some one moved on and I jumped at the chance to continue with my workout. Then I noticed one of the guys on the machine next to me was wearing dress pants. He wasn't working out. He was just mucking around whilst gas bagging to the girl on the next machine. What's worse is that he was a gym employee.

I so need to find some inspiration to help me push it at the gym, maybe I should take up boxing?

30 PSC: Day Twenty One - "Time of my life"

2011-09-16T22:05:00.000+12:00

Day Twenty One: A song that you listen to when you're happy.

'Happy Days/Get Happy' - Glee Cast cover
'Just for today' - India Arie
'Love your ways' - Salmonella Dub
'Valerie' - Amy Winehouse ft. Mark Ronson
'So True' - The Black Seeds
'Teenage Dream' - Glee Cast cover
'The Time (dirty bit)' - Black Eyed Peas, particularly this version...

30 PSC: Day Twenty - "Who let you in?"

2011-09-14T09:00:00.000+12:00

Day Twenty - A song that you listen to when you're angry.

This is a much better version, but embedding was disabled.

30 PSC: Day Nineteen - 'Ex-Factor'

2011-09-11T21:46:00.001+12:00

Day Nineteen - A song from your favourite album.

Sheesh. Again, the list could just go on and on. Pretty definitive picks from various era's of my life.

'Red Red Wine' by UB40, Labour of Love
'Magic what she do', DD Smash, Godzone Vol. 1
'The Drugs Don't Work' by Ben Harper, Live From Mars
'Love is Waiting', by Brooke Fraser, Albertine
'Ain't no Love', by David Gray, Life in Slow Motion
'Turn it around', by Black Seeds, On the Sun
'Better be home soon', Kasey Chambers, She will have her way

"Baa Baa Black Sheep"

2011-09-02T21:45:00.003+12:00

Today I got to spend the whole day with Aaliah. Brad, Kelsey and I picked her up in the morning and headed up to my Aunt & Uncles farm (where my Dad is staying) to spend some time and to show Aaliah the animals. Before we set off we made a quick stop at The Warehouse for a Father's Day present. We also got a book full of different animals to read on the way. Aaliah seemed quite excited to be seeing the animals. We spotted all the horse's, lambies and cows we could from the safety of the car. Every time I asked her what noise a lamb makes she sang 'Baa Baa, Black Sheep'.

We arrived at the farm. We threw on layers. We put on Gumboots. We did not have a good time.

Turns out that getting up-close and personal with the animals, was not Aaliah's idea of fun. So we went back to the house and had some lunch. Aaliah had been begging for "caaake" ever since she spotted the plate in the car when we left The Warehouse. I told her she'd have to finish her Banana if she wanted cake. She ate it grudgingly but threw in a few dramatic "yuuuum"'s for good-measure.

I'm not sure if it was the sugar content in the cake, or if she'd just had time to relax and process the new surroundings, but after lunch came a change. My Aunty arrived home and asked Aaliah if she wanted to give the Lambs their bottle. Did she what?! My Aunty was making up the bottle. Aaliah was crying out to me "Boots Aunty, Boots!" and before I knew it we were back in the paddock. Aaliah insisted on carrying the milk and charged through the paddock.

Then I thought she would be sweet if we went inside the pen. I was wrong.

But half an hour later, she was asking to go back out again. She chased the lambs round the paddock, calling "come here lambie!". She patted them through the pen. We saw the horses. By the time we left she was asking to go and see them again. Success? I think so.

"Pērā i ngā puapua kua hutia i te rōhi"

2011-09-01T11:57:00.002+12:00

Ugh. Life is a bitch sometimes. There's no other way to put how I'm feeling. How can the universe supply the most joyous of news, then tease that a miracle has been multiplied, and then rip it all away in an instant? How can life be so cruel?

When my Mum was diagnosed, I felt a bit lonely. My friends were always there for me, but I felt like they weren't sure what to say. What can you say to someone who is going through something you haven't experienced?

I feel a bit like that today.

One of my friends is hurting, in one of the worst possible ways. And I just don't have the words. What do you say to someone when they are hurting in a way that you just can't comprehend?
I'm scared of saying the wrong thing. But I know I have to say something. All I have is this :

I will be here for you in anyway that I can. Although I can't know what you're going through I want you to know that you are not alone in this. You have an army of friends and family that Love you. We want to be here for you. We want to take your hurt away. We want to hold your hands in ours, and your heart in our hearts. You are not alone. You never will be. You are beautiful and brave.We love you. X

"Under Pressure"

2011-08-20T22:20:00.002+12:00

I have one last essay to finish and hand in on Monday afternoon, before having a two week break. I was just procrastinating and flicking through my diary when it occurred to me that the end of term exam timetable may been posted on the VUW site. I checked. It was. I calmly wrote the dates in my dairy, in bright red ink to denote a sense of urgency/warning/danger. Then it hit me...

..After all the stops and starts
After all the hard work
After all the A+'s and the C's (and a whole heap of G's)
After receiving a letter inviting me to enrol in an English Literature honours programme
After realising that said letter was signed by the same man who once told my tutor that I didn't have what it takes to even complete an English major
After all the "I should have worked harder"
After getting sick and subsequently being put on academic "probation"
After the butterflies in your stomach from getting back a great mark
After all the "Stuff it, lets go and have a drink!"
After feeling that rush of freedom from handing in your last assignment at the end of each term
After all the procrastination
After feeling so lost for so many years
After getting assignments back and being so disappointed that I locked myself in a toilet stall and cried
After all the late nights and early mornings
After all the moody "I'm-not-ever-going-to-finish-this" freak outs
After finding new interests
After making new friends, and seeing many of them Graduate
After seeing things from new perspectives
After leaving Uni when my Mum got diagnosed with Cancer
After coming back when people said that I wouldn't
After losing myself in my work, and subsequently finding a new version of myself
After those few moment where the hand of what I was studying reached off the page and took a hold of my heart....

....come November 10th I should (fingers crossed!) have done enough to earn my degree. And until the next major chapter in my life begins, everything in between will be an after. After I finished my degree...

..and now...

..I want to vomit.

30 PSC: Day Eighteen - "Radio Ga Ga"

2011-08-18T20:21:00.000+12:00

Day Eighteen - A song that you wish you heard on the radio more often.

There is only one song for this post. It is such a good radio song. It makes me sing along every time I hear it, ever since I was a child. In fact - I remember wearing an acid wash denim dress and singing along to this on my Mum's 'Greatest Hits II' cassette as a wee one. There are even pictures.

Queen was a staple in our house, and I associate their music with growing up in Martinborough and a special little girl, Eve van Grafhorst. Freddy Mercury had HIV, and died in 1991. I remember my Mum crying after seeing it on the news. Kelsey was just a wee little baby. After seeing Eve on What Now, lying in a hospital bed, in what must have been her final weeks, Mum and I made a card for her. It was made with black card, and gold glitter, and we sent it in to her, like many many others did.

When Eve died, I remember my Mum crying again. It is my first memory I have of 'knowing' about HIV. I always remembered Eve's face, and not understanding how this could happen to a child. It was scary, and so sad. Mum must have explained to me that the man who sung this song and Eve, were both sick with the same thing. And this song in particular, reminds me of them both, and when I hear it all I see is gold glitter. Gold glitter on the jacket of the man who sings that song, and on the card one little girl made to send to another.

"Together we're one, but apart tell me who are we fooling?"

2011-08-16T15:14:00.000+12:00

I'm having one of those days. I just can't focus. I am more emotional this week, than I have been in a long time.
It could be the time of the month, or even the time of year. It could be the amount of work I have at Uni. It could be the amount of work I'd like to be doing elsewhere.

It is overwhelming.

Sometimes you just want to shake people, until they see what you think is sense. I have always struggled with understanding what makes people turn away from something that I believe to be special, or even just being there for one another. Family, friends, a special place, none of it can be maintained by one person. It takes so much more.

The hardest part in realising that you just can't make people feel the way that you feel about a relationship, friendship, custom, place or cause is that I know I can't do it by myself. Which means, unless things change, or people change, or at least try, at some point you have to call it a day.

We have to do it together as one, otherwise, who are we fooling?

Not quite the original

2011-08-16T08:55:00.004+12:00

So last night our heat pump stopped working due to the cold. Awesome. So I did what any sensible woman would do and switched on the oven for some late night baking and warmth. I've had this recipe tucked away and never really got around to making them. So I adapted the recipe and sceptically made these Cookie Time Wannabes. Wannabes they are, but they are pretty darn close (like cousins?), and I think with a bit of tweaking we could have a Cookie Time sibling on our hands. Give 'em a try and let me know what you think! Please excuse the aver-age pic, it was late.

Ingredients:
225g of butter
3/4 cup white sugar
3/4 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla
2 1/4 cups plain white flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 - 2 cups chocolate chunks (I suggest a mix of Whittaker's creamy chunks and dark block)

Makes 12

Directions:
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line an oven tray.

2. Combine the flour, baking soda and salt, in a jug, whisk.

3. Cream the butter, white and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla and then the eggs one at a time. Beat until combined

4. Add the dry ingredients in two batches on low until combined.

5. Mix in the chocolate chunks. Place 6 big rounded spoonfuls onto the prepared baking tray, and flatten out a bit using your hands. Leave plenty of room for spreading.

6. Bake until golden brown, approximately 15 minutes. Transfer to rack to cool and set.

**END NOTE**

Even though I am being pretty good at what I eat lately, I still bake for Brad's lunches. Usually cookies don't faze me at all. These do. I can't keep away. WONT be making these often for that very reason.

Blame it on the Pop

2011-08-16T08:40:00.000+12:00

I heard this on the radio the other day. I think they are so cool! All of them are pretty cool, but I like the 2009 version best.

"Even when you're feeling warm, the temperature could drop away"

2011-08-15T10:05:00.003+12:00

This morning I was woken by a text from Brad. It read: "It's snowing outside my office". I txt him back and got out of bed to see what the weather was doing here. I received so many accounts last night of crazy weather stories, snow angels, snow covered roads and the catching of snowflakes on tongues. I knew it would be cold. Because we live so close to the sea I assumed that we would not be amongst those who were lucky enough to have their backyards turned in to a winter wonderland. And I was right. We had no snow. When I threw back the curtains and opened the blinds in our lounge, I was met by a sight I thought I'd never see. I kicked of my slippers and donned my gym shoes, a jacket and scarf over my pyjama's and I grabbed my camera bag. The second I opened the door, the weather slapped me in the face and stole my breathe. My eyes were running as I stormed up the sand dune, still half asleep, to get a better look at the beach. Wow. The sea was black, the sky was sunny yet grey, windy yet crisp. I looked in all directions to see the effects of the weather on different parts of the region. Four seasons in one day. This is the one that took my breathe away:

Click to enlarge

Yeah, that is snow on Kapiti Island.

"Never felt this way before"

2011-08-14T21:14:00.001+12:00

I can't stop watching this. It is too funny. Seriously. I was at the Gym the other day and The Time came on my playlist, and I was cracking up on the elliptical. I've never been so taken by a youtube sensation (except maybe Charlie bit my finger). I'm hoping that by sharing it, I will maybe get it out of my system. Enjoy.

30 PSC: Day Seventeen - "Can't you hear that?"

2011-08-11T21:08:00.004+12:00

Day Seventeen - A song that you hear often on the radio.

At the moment I am hearing this tune quite a bit...not that I listen to the radio a lot these days.

Do I like it? I don't know....the chorus is so, so catchy. The rest.....nothing amazing. What do you think? Blingin' or Mingin'?

"Uhh not salads"

2011-08-09T19:37:00.003+12:00

One of my favourite restaurants is One Red Dog. I'm sure I've said that before. Anywho, when I go there, no matter who with - I always order the same thing. Antipasto platter, to share of course. But since I've started eating better - cheeses, cured meats and flat breads aren't exactly my best friends. So one night we went there. I looked lovingly at platters of deliciousness zooming past me to other tables. I ordered a Lamb & Feta Salad. I loved it. I'm obsessed with it. I've re-created it at home.

Marinated Lamb & Feta salad with Mandarin & Mint Dressing.
Serves Two

Lamb Steaks (at least) 300g
Sliced Garlic
Good splash of Red Wine (or for non-boozers try a little olive oil and some fresh rosemary)
Rock Salt and Cracked Pepper
Your Choice of leafy Salad Greens, mesclun works well
Two tomatoes or a handful of cherry tomatoes
1/4 Red Onion
2 Mandarins
Fresh Mint
Feta Cheese (I suggest a Danish Cows Milk Feta. Cheaper and just as tasty)

Trim your lamb of any fat or silver skin. Season both sides liberally. Throw your Meat in a plastic container along with the Wine and Garlic. Chuck a lid on it and put in in the fridge for an hour (any longer and the wine starts to dye your lamb).

Remove your lamb from the fridge before you start preparing the salad.

If your using cherry tomatoes give them a rinse and split them in half. If your using the normal kind, slice them in half and remove all the seeds using a teaspoon. Dice.
Slice your Onion. I prefer thin slices, do what you will.
Add your greens to a shallow salad bowl or dish and add the tomatoes and onion.

To make your dressing, finely chop some mint leaves. Peel your mandarins and literally pummel them in your hand, over a small bowl. You want as much juice from them as possible. If you want to add a bit of olive oil - that's fine too. Whisk your mandarin juice with salt & pepper and your chopped mint (and oil if you're using it). Dress your greens, and toss.

Heat a frying pan to med-high. Use a little oil, and once is heated up start to cook your lamb. I usually cook my lamb for no more then 2 mins on each side. Remove from the pan and leave to rest.

Cube your feta and crumble it over the salad. Slice your lamb, place it on top of your salad. Tonight we had this stuffed inside some toasted Pita with some natural yoghurt. But, it is JUST as good as a stand alone meal. Add some crusty garlic bread if you're a carb fiend. Fab with a great glass of red wine.

"Picture Perfect Beautiful"

2011-08-08T22:55:00.001+12:00

Coming soon...

Send all questions and requests for specific tips on how to make your (insert feature here) look/s the best it/they can, to inmyshoes.nicole@gmail.com.

Our friendly beauty therapist will start answering some soon.

"I'm cravin' for you"

2011-08-05T08:30:00.004+12:00

When I'm sick I become like a child in many ways. I am clingy, difficult to please and emotional. I also have weird cravings. Here are my Top Five food cravings that are not helping my weight loss this sicky week.

5. Kumara Chips - One of Brad's sissy's makes these awesome Kumara Chips with a Morrocan/Curry powder seasoning. I love them. If I could eat them every day I would.

4. KFC Rolls and Gravy - This is a regular sick craving item for me. Deliciousness.

3. Green lollies - Green lollies are usually right down there with orange for me. But not at the mo. Green eskimo's, jetplanes and jubes, lay 'em on me!

2. McDonald's Blackberry and Apple Pie - Yup they're back. Yup they're amazing. I want them...now...and all other times of the day.

1. Runny Boiled egg with toast soldiers and heaps of salt and pepper. - This is my all time fave when I'm sick - always. My Mum used to make this when we were sick and it's still so comforting even now.

Do you have any particular food cravings when you're ill?

"Television, television"

2011-08-04T22:53:00.002+12:00

Things on TV that are annoying me at the moment. Yeah, I'm in a rant mood this week. I's not well written, and you may not agree. I don't care. I'm posting it anyway.

The Offender: "Z energy" commercial.
The Offence: I loathe when an attempt is made to capture a sense of "New Zealand-ness". Whatever that means anyway. Where I get really annoyed is around the 1 minute mark of the clip. "We've already brought the call centre back home" is the voice over, while we watch a bunch of "Kiwi's" haul boxes of office equipment from an office somewhere seemingly in Asia. Am I the only one who finds this a bit distasteful? But here's the kicker, we then see a man removing headsets from workers who we assume are the foreign call centre workers. Is Z energy saying that being a "Kiwi" means not looking Asian. What does being Asian look like? What does being a New Zealander look like? In a country that is made up of multi-cultural people, you'd think that Z Energy would've been a bit...hmmmm...less racist? How dare Z Energy try and define what does and doesn't look "Kiwi".

The Offender: TV2 commercial for Chuck.
The Offence: Since when has it been ok to use the term "Mother Chucking" in a commercial? I get it. It's supposed to be funny. It's just not. Who wants their kids running around saying "Mother Chucker", or even asking what that means? I have flash backs of a Dog saying "buggar" and a whole heap of knickers-in-twists over that. Standards slipping much?

The Offender: Police Ten Seven
The Offence: I've had this debate and discussion many a time before, and it sits much the same with the Offence above. "Such-and-Such is a 27 year old Male, Part-Mowree". Now even with pronunciation aside, this ticks my tock. If he's part Maori, that means he's also part something else. Why doesn't the voice-over say "Such-and-Such is a 27 year old Male, Part-Caucasian"? It would be just as accurate.

The Offender: Sara Tetro
The Offence: She says the name of one the contestants on her show wrong. Most weeks on New Zealand's Next Top Model. Poor ~~Arrow-Ha~~ Aroha. ~~I might tweet her about this~~. I did tweet Sara about this. She replied. She said she would try and say it differently but "FYI I asked all the girls how they wanted their names pronounced..." Well in her defence, what can she do? I mean it is Aroha's name after all and she said that's how you say it. I wonder if Aroha said she wanted it said that way just to try not to be too difficult? Like Pio. I think it's commendable that Sara actually asked the girls on the show how they wanted their names to be said. I doubt many (if any, eh Scribe?) even bother.
I also asked Sara about which shampoo she uses because her hair always looks amazing and lush and glossy. She told me. She also told me it takes an entire can of spray (almost) when she's filming. *Sob, I can't afford a can a day for my hair to look that good. #FirstWorldWomensProblems

The Offender: Bonita Banana's
The Offence: Another commercial. This time for a competition, marketed at kids, to win tickets to a World Cup game for the winner and...their Dad. What if your Dad's absent/deceased/non-existent? Then what? Womp wow. I'm sure if a kid, in one of those situations won then it would be fine to take another adult. But what about the kid who doesn't even bother/or want to enter because of that? How stink.

So add this to pretty much a huge bagful of things that Paul Henry once said, that thing Paul Holmes said and a whole heap of things that help to distort positive body images for our youth and that's pretty much everything on TV, that's ticked me off so far. Ok, so no more complaining for a bit.

"It makes you think"

2011-08-04T11:06:00.001+12:00

Today I got an assignment back. I got a bad mark. A C+, or in other words "barely passed". Don't get me wrong, I've had a few before, but this one upset me especially. Why? I went to the lectures. I took notes. I wrote down interesting terminology that the lecturer used, that I wouldn't normally use. I did my reading. I went and saw my lecturer for clarification. I used his terminology in my piece. I got a bad mark. In fact I got marked down for using such a "weird term", that my lecturer gifted me.

Last trimester my tutor (and a MA student) for an English Literature paper I was taking spoke to me about some of her struggles in her undergrad studies. She told me that she couldn't understand, that in a facility that encourages thinking and the sharing of ideas, that her markers could be so uninterested in hearing what she thought. And this got me thinking. When you get an average mark you ask yourself, "what could I have done to have made this better?" I wasn't expecting top marks this time. But I was expecting better. Today when I asked myself "what could I have done to have made this better?" The only answer I could come up with was "to think exactly like my lecturer".
Is University not about creating critical thinkers? Embracing different forms of thinking and different perspectives? Yeah, it makes you think, alright.

Don't forget to conjure up some questions for my beauty guru. No matter how gritty or simple, send 'em through to inmyshoes-nicole@gmail.com.

"I know that a gift so great is only one God could create"

2011-08-03T16:42:00.001+12:00

This morning when I woke up to my phone ringing, I was worried that I'd be receiving bad news, as often is the case with early morning and late at night phone calls. My mobile has bad reception in my bedroom, and the call dropped. I ran to grab my cordless home phone and called my friend back. Her voice was happy and vibrant. She told me that she is expecting her first baby. A miracle baby. Wow. I was (and still am) buzzing with happiness and excitement for her and her partner. How incredible to create life. After a few minutes of screeching down the phone at each other, we both took a deep breath.

"Well, no more Wine time for me", she said.

"Oh yeah, and cheeses", I replied, sounding disappointed for her tastebuds.

"Better get a hobby to fill my days. I need to learn how to crochet".

So Belinda, your blog may be getting a run around today as my friend ooogles your creations as inspiration for her own crochet addiction.

So happy for my friend. She's going to be a fantastic mother. Wow a baby. A Rainbow baby. A miracle. A good good day.

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes

2011-08-02T15:28:00.004+12:00

For those of you who subscribe via email or or access this through reader, you may not have realised that In My Shoes has had a costume change. I have been wanting to do it for a loooooong time. But I've been waiting. Last night I could wait no longer. I am sick and could not sleep. So I kind of taught myself how to use photoshop (obviously very basically) and started to change a few things around. This will be a temporary change but, still much welcomed on my part. You'll be pleased to know that all of the shoes featured in my new headings are in fact from my own wardrobe.

In other news, I will soon be rolling out some guest-posters. The first of which is a dear friend who also happens to be a Beauty Therapist. We want to know what you want to know about Beauty Therapy. If you're after certain trade secrets and tips on how to look your best then let us know. If you have a question that you've always wanted to ask a professional send it through to inmyshoes.nicole@gmail.com.

I now also have some buttons. They aren't the flashest but once my photoshop skills improve I will make them prettier. In the mean time, if you fancy yourself a button, please ~~do grab one~~ try and grab one. There may be some glitchy bits sorry- I am very very new at this!

'Now she knows'

2011-08-02T00:27:00.003+12:00

I've wanted to post about this for a wee while now. For some reason, I haven't. I have been busy. I am still sick. I just didn't have the words.

If you're a person who enjoys reading, there has probably been a text that when you first read it you knew it was for you. You identified with it. I am not talking of sympathy. I am talking about the words on the page, being spilled from your own heart.

Until earlier this year I had not experienced this. It wasn't until I borrowed this book from my local library, as it was prescribed for one of my University papers that I stumbled across this. I had the book issued to me and thumbed it over in the car.

(image)

I had no idea what to expect. As we drove home, I skimmed through more pages. A few lines jumped off the page at me. I could skim no more. I was hooked. I couldn't believe my eyes.

We pulled in to the driveway and parked. Rain drops trickled down the windows of the now steamy car. Tear drops trickled down my face as I read a poem aloud to Brad. He laughed, as he often does when I cry over seemingly simple things. He asked why I was crying. I answered, "Because this is what I feel. This could be about me. This has been me. I didn't know other people felt this way". He went inside and left me alone with my thoughts - and the book. I read, more and more. Karlo Mila, Alice Te Punga Somerville, Albert Wendt and Selina Tusitala Marsh, all of these writer's I'd never heard of, reaching in to their hearts and their heads and putting it all out there. For people like me to read, and to cry over.

All my life I had been labelled as the 'sensitive one'. When it came to Maori history and cultural issues I was particularly sensitive. Friends thought it was weird that I cried during Whale Rider, with a sob so strong, you'd have thought I was there. Other people made me feel strange about it, like I was the only one. Reading this book, these poems showed me that I am not now, nor will I ever be alone in these feelings.

The paper that I was reading Mauri Ola for is now over. Sadly. When I finish University, I know that I will look back on that paper as being definitively life changing. As Karlo Mila writes, to read these poems, it feels exactly like "a needle in my heart, piercing and mending" at the same time. And it is only just the beginning. If Mauri Ola is in your local library I strongly suggest you take a peek. Although it may not have the same life changing effect as it did on my, I am certain it will be eye opening.

"Stones from my enemies, these wounds will mend"

2011-07-14T18:32:00.002+12:00

This week I have realised that for me growing up not only changing as people, but it's also learning to let go. I guess?
When I was in my teens I would give people in my life second, third, fourth...chances to make up for hurting me. I still am a believer in second chances. Everybody makes mistakes after all. What's different now as an adult is the reasoning behind giving people multiple chances. When I was younger I didn't need a reason other than I desperately wanted people in my life, regardless of what they brought to it. It seemed better to have more friends, than less, despite what sort of people they were. I thought by the time I reached my final year in High School that I had cut a lot of these faux-friends out and that I was well over endless chances. I wasn't. There are people I have on and off fought with for the last six years, and they in some ways are still a small part of my life today. Some friends find it difficult to understand why I am willing to continue forging relationships with these people when I am so quick to cull others who were closer to me. The thing is, I let go of the people who I have had up's and downs with a long time ago. Their stones don't mean much to me any more - I simply expect them.
So I guess what I am trying to say is that when you think you have a great relationship with somebody and they hurt you, no matter how small, it cuts deep And over time, the constant flinging of the smallest stones can feel like the sharpest daggers - because no matter how long it has been going on for you just weren't expecting it and you don't want to believe it.
But now I need to believe it.

As an adult I am learning to accept that the stones thrown by my friends aren't always un-survivable. But when you feel like all that remains is a token and when all that you shared with some one has been forsaken - that it's time to move on and try to let go. And that's something that I'm still working on.

30 PSC: Day Sixteen - Not "forever".

2011-07-14T09:49:00.002+12:00

Day Sixteen - A song you used to love but now hate.

Steps - 5, 6, 7, 8. Does this really need an explanation? I was eleven when it came out, if that's any defence.

Chris Brown - Forever. Yeah, so every time I hear any of his music, all I can picture is Rhianna's beaten face. A good reason to hate something. Such a shame that I have to. Asshole.

30 PSC: Day Fifteen - "I'm Sensitive"

2011-07-13T21:48:00.001+12:00

Day Fifteen - ~~A song~~ Song's that describes you.

Difficult.

How can just one song some me up as a person? It can't. Here are a few songs that describe fragments of me or of how I feel I look at life. Some of these songs probably describe me at a certain point in my life rather than definitively summing me up.

I'm Sensitive - Jewel
Roses from my friends - Ben Harper
Don't forget your roots - Six60
There's something in the water - Brooke Fraser
Stop this Train - John Mayer

"Something"

2011-07-11T10:34:00.000+12:00

Quite often I find myself stressing out about uni and money and not having enough of the things that I want. I wish I could afford more shoes, expensive handbags and a personal trainer. It annoys me that I can't afford those things that I want so badly. I get annoyed at my family for not taking enough interest as I think they should. I get hurt that they don't ask me how I am, when I talk to them on the phone. I get pissy with Brad for not taking out the rubbish.

And then something happens. Something tragic. Something that breaks the hearts of people I work with. Breaks the hearts of people who used to teach me. Something that in a smaller way breaks my own heart too.

And after the initial shock and sadness fades to a dull ache I am reminded that expensive, pretty things are nice. But they are just. nothing. Nothing, in comparison to the gift we are given each day that allows us to walk in this life and share it with each other. Why is it that the thought of owning a designer handbag and beautiful shoes makes me so happy, but waking up everyday and living my life doesn't?

Just last night I was thankful for the fact that I have overpaid my student loan for the year and can claim it back.
Today I am thankful to have a student loan. Thankful because that means I can continue with my studies. Thankful because that means I am here.
Saddened because one beautiful, beaming & bright (in every sense) girl is not. And it's just not fair.

And in an instant I am brought back down to earth. If I could trade every shoe. Every bag, every glittering thing that I could ever own, for her. I would. But I can't. That's not the way life or death works.

All that's left to do is to surround those people with love. Light a candle. Say a prayer. Shed a few tears. And to know, to truly know, that each day we are given is a blessing.

"Hold On"

2011-07-02T20:45:00.001+12:00

I've had a few days of relaxation. No sleep in, but good, good times.

I went to the movies on Friday afternoon with some friends and my sissy. We saw Bridesmaids. It was hilarious. If you're not a fan of sex scenes, swearing and general bawdiness though...don't see it. We however, had an awesome time. I laughed so much. The day concluded with us sitting in the car eating forkfuls of chocolate mud cake. We looked pretty feral. But it was so worth it.
After feeling guilt(*cough/Fat) laden after the cake I pulled pin on dinner. Instead I had a cup of tea and a piece of toast and snuggled up to watch The Wizard of Oz with Brad. Brad thought it would be fun to point out the visible wires in pretty much every scene. It's still my favourite movie.

I had a great afternoon today too. We stopped by Brads Nana's place, as his Parents, one of his sisters, Aunt, Uncle, Cousins, Cousin's Wife.....aaaaaaaaaaaaaand his eldest Cousins new born baby girl were all there for lunch. *GASP. Brad had Soccer so we couldn't stay for long but It was lovely to see everyone. It was made even more special by the presence of two people. Of course the newest addition is one, seeing Brad's Nana beam with pride over her first great-grandchild is just precious.
Secondly, Brad's cousin who is closest to him in age. He had a terrible motorcycle accident about a month ago. I sat almost in awe as he sat and chatted, laughed, made jokes and recalled memories. Apart from his cast and headgear, the traces of his accident were almost unrecognisable to me. A sheer miracle for someone who just weeks ago had to fight for their life. Amazing. Life is so precious.

After we got home from "lunch" one of my besties Erica and my god-daughter stopped by. How adorable is she?

She hasn't quite got the hang of the kissy pout in these pics. Must have seen Mum and Dad kiss with their mouths open too many times methinks.

Then a girlfriend from high school popped in. It's been almost a year since we caught up. I loved hearing all about a fab European holiday she's just returned from. I feel lucky to have such an array of friends. A smorgasbord if you will..

It just goes to show even when you think you're going through a tough time, you just have to hold on, good times are ahead.

"You can buy all the make-up that M.A.C. can make"

2011-06-30T20:30:00.002+12:00

So I've been promising for a little while now that I would post some Real Life Pins, huh Dee? The day has finally come. Exams are over, my work week is over and I am ready to share my first Pinspirational Project with you.

Pinspiration:

Source: laurathoughts81.blogspot.com via Sarah on Pinterest

My Real Life Pin:

Isn't it amazing what you can do with a magnetic whiteboard, some magnets, a rinsed out can, a recycled frame, a test pot of paint and some free wallpaper?

I love having all my makeup regulars and favourites at a reach.
I really do wish I could buy all the makeup that M.A.C can make. I'll have to settle for what I've got, and this pretty board makes me ok with that.

30 PSC: Day Fourteen - "Your choice is who you choose to be, so If you're causing no harm, you're alright with me"

2011-06-29T21:11:00.003+12:00

Day Fourteen - A song that no one would expect you to love.

I'm not a drug user (not judging - just not my styles), so the fact that I like this song is kind of weird. The tune is just so catchy. When I've had this on a CD mix, friends and family have looked at me with a raised eyebrow. It's BH and it's catchy...ok?!

I also like some of the lyrics.

"My choice is what I choose to do, and if I'm causing no harm, why should it bother you? And your choice is who you choose to be, so If you're causing no harm, you're alright with me".

I believe this 100%. If each persons guilty pleasures or belief's don't harm anyone else (and I do mean anyone) then that's their business. I am really trying this year to accept my own and others differences. Their choices aren't mine, and just because I don't agree or enjoy the same things, doesn't mean I can't have great relationships or friendships with those people. I'm trying to embrace differences in political opinions, cultural differences and religions. Taking fragments of wisdom from all different areas really forces me to re-evaluate my standpoint. It's refreshing.

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Irish Music? Really? Heck Yeah! Plus it reminds me of P.S I Love You/Gerard Butler. What's not to love?

Did you expect picks such as these?
What is a song that you like that's unexpected?

30 PSC: Day Thirteen - "Love your ways"

2011-06-19T20:15:00.002+12:00

Day Thirteen (yup, I'm skipping twelve) - A song that's your guilty pleasure.

OK, so there are heaps of songs I could put here. But I'll refrain from going too nuts.

Who's That Girl? - Guy Sebastian

Ice Cream - New Young Pony Club

I once listened to this song non-stop for over three hours when I was in my last year of high school. It reminds me of spring, great friends and the smell of freesias.

"Her whole house smells like soup"

2011-06-17T09:28:00.004+12:00

I love soup, and tomato soup has been my favourite pretty much forever. What I love about this recipe (especially now) is that it is healthy. It's basically vegetables, stock and the tiniest bit of olive oil. If I know I'm going to have a "bad" dinner, I'll have this for lunch to give me a bit of balance. I also love how this recipe is relatively quick. This soup also freezes well, making it an awesome option for easy winter lunches. Please excuse the state of my stove. I took these photo's when I was making the second batch. Also ceramic stove tops = not cool.

Tomato Soup
Serves 4

(the actual recipe calls for double the ingredients and doubles the serves but I don't have a stock pot)

Ingredients:

1 Carrot

1 stalk of Celery

1 Onion

1 clove of Garlic

1 TBSP Olive Oil

1 400g Tin of whole Peeled Tomatoes

3 Large Fresh Tomatoes (or equivalent make up)

1 Chicken or Vegetable Stock Cube

Small bunch of Basil

Salt and Pepper

(I also use a little Balsamic Vinegar)

1. Roughly Chop your Onion, Celery and Carrot. Peel and slice your Garlic.

2. Put a large saucepan on Medium heat and add your Olive Oil.

3. Put all your vegetables in the pot and give them a good stir with a wooden spoon.

4. Cook for 10-15 minutes with the lid askew, until the vegetables have softened, but still holding their shape. The onion should be slightly golden.

5.Dissolve your stock cube in 900ml of boiling water.

6. Add stock to the pan with your fresh and chopped Tomatoes. Give it a good stir.

7. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for ten minutes with the lid on.

8. Remove pan from the heat and add your picked basil leaves, salt and pepper and Balsamic to taste.

9. Use a blender, food processor, liquidizer or equivalent action to pulse the soup until smooth. Serve with dunking carbs of your choice.

(Notice how there's no photo of the finished product? Yeah I was too busy eating the soup to remember to take a photo. My bad.)

"Dog Days Are Over"

2011-06-17T08:57:00.002+12:00

Today is the first day in six weeks where I have woken up healthy and not needed to get somewhere, study something, write something or report to someone. As I pondered this thought in the earliest moments of my day, I felt relieved and happy. Then I felt guilty and lazy. But I shouldn't. I've worked hard and today is my day to do whatever I choose. I have a week of work next week and then both Brad and I will get a few days off together. So lucky. I can't wait to:

share my "real-life Pins" on Blogger
...and some great recipes
finally hack off some of the 30PSC
clean the house (for those that know my habits - I'm not joking)
get my exercise on

Also, I am beginning to work on some bits and bobs to prettify my blog. I am so excited about this.

Thank-you to everyone who wished me well before my exams. Thanks to my loving friends and family for your ongoing support. But most of all, thanks to my love, who has cleaned, cooked, made countless cups of tea for me, quizzed me and put up with my stressy troll-like behaviour whilst I studied. I couldn't have done it without you. X

"If a Citizen has one right above all others to demand anything of his country, it is that he should be Educated"

2011-06-11T09:13:00.002+12:00

When I woke up this morning and checked the "news" on Stuff, I saw this. Here is the first paragraph:

"Only students doing courses that benefit the economy should receive interest-free loans, according to a suggestion from a leading accountancy group."

Gobsmacked. This makes me so angry, it's almost as if I can feel my blood boiling. OK, I understand that it makes sense to provide an incentive for those studying in areas which we desperately need more of. But to claim that all other programmes of study do not benefit the economy is just plain ridiculous. According to Kate Sylvester and Massey University, New Zealand designers will bring in over three hundred million dollars in exports, just this year. If that does not benefit the economy, I'm not too sure what will.
If the concept in this article some how becomes a reality, upcoming New Zealand designers will have student loans, laden with interest. Imagine you're a student wanting to compete either a design degree or a science degree, and you could not decide between the two. A design degree is expensive and your student loan will have interest. A science degree has no interest. Which would you choose? Start waving goodbye to the New Zealand fashion industry and a good chunk of that three hundred million.

Mr Ball, when introducing the concept of a national Education System in 1869 to the House used two different quotes. Both have their merits.

"The future prosperity of a Country is closely related to the Education of the people, for the solid wealth of any state consists in Educated Men and Women ."

" If a Citizen has one right above all others to demand anything of his country, it is that he should be Educated, that whatever capabilities he may have in him, however small, may have a fair chance of development. "

Together these quotes created the foundation for our national Education System, and the ideas within them should always work in unison. Although these quotes did not refer to Tertiary education at the time, they certainly have relevance. To me, to try to alter this concept of Education by implying that one element could exist without the other, is just. plain. stupid.

Who will save your soul?

2011-06-09T11:38:00.001+12:00

I saw this on Pinterest today. With all the exam stress and the trying to eat healthy/get fit thing going on. This spoke to me.

What have I been doing lately for my soul? In short. Nothing really. Stress took over my life last week and took control over every little thing.
What I love about this print is that it reminds me that you have to really try to fulfil these different entities of yourself every single day. I can't wait for exams to be over so I can finally do something big and juicy for my creativity. There are so many awesome things on Pinterest that I'm going to steal and re-create at our place. But I've realised - you can't just tell yourself to wait until you have time to do things that make you happy. You have to do something every single day. Even if it's just a tiny, tiny thing. Or just the start of a bigger project. If it makes your soul happy - then it is more than worthy of stealing a little time away from housework, study or whatever you have going on. Today I painted my nails. It took fifteen minutes and seems like something small. But it made me smile. As for the Pinteresting Projects....Stay tuned.

What have you done today for yourself?

30 PSC: Day Eleven - "I'll stand by you"

2011-06-05T23:09:00.001+12:00

Day Eleven - LAME.

A song from your favourite band. Difficult. Some of these "bands" are old favourites. Some are bands that I am just getting in to. But the future of the emotional attachment I will have for them is promising. Too difficult to chose one, or even just a couple. And there's no way I'm ditching my oldies.

Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals - My own two hands
Six60 - Finest Wine
Crowded House - Fall at your feet
Supergroove - For Whatever Reason
Mumford & Son's - Timshel
Pretenders - I'll stand by you
Florence + The Machine - Dog Days Are Over
UB40 - Red Red Wine

The Art of Losing

2011-05-31T22:48:00.001+12:00

Over the past twelve weeks I have been on a mission. A mission to lose weight. A lot of weight was PCOS related, the rest was my own fault. I had come to a point where I was sick of feeling down about, sick of not being able to fit my clothes, and an understanding that if I want to make babies one day the weight will have to go. And going it is. I have officially lost twelve kilograms over twelve weeks.

And I know that is great and I am proud. Although I still have a loooong way to go, I think one of the biggest hurdles has now been had.

Some points on weight loss so far:

You never get over the time wasted measuring out peanut butter and marmite for your toast in the morning. Any other times it's forgettable. Not so much in the morning.

You lose weight and your clothes still don't fit. I am in an annoying spot of being marginally too big to fit some of my old smaller clothes and too small to wear my "current" clothes. Belts = slightly helpful. Also some shoes are now a tad too big. *Sob. If I had an abundance of money it would be a great excuse to buy more.

My first sign that I had lost a decent chunk of weight came in the form of my diamond ring. It became dangerously too big to wear. But I now am able to fit a white gold ring again that Brad gave me for our first anniversary (not our second as it says here).

You start to go a tad koo-koo. I was watching Shortland Street the other night and Sarah (who is pregnant) was eating cake. In the middle of the day. With reckless abandon. I looked at Brad with a big smile and said "I'm looking forward to being pregnant one day, cause when I'm pregnant..I'm gonna eat cake". Not "I can't wait to have kids...with you, one day". No. Just, I'm looking forward to eating cake.

Food Porn. I now dream of butter on fresh white bread. I dream of Mexican food with tonnes of Guacamole and bottomless pitchers of Margaritas. I dream of Cake. Pastries. Fry Bread. Timtams. Chips and Dips.

Brad told me that I looked a lot slimmer while I was cooking dinner. He asked me if I felt it too. I don't. I am now more aware than ever of how much weight I have to lose. Now that I have seen results of my hard work I feel larger than ever. It annoys me. Before the weight loss I felt like an overweight person. Now I feel like a healthy person stuck inside an overweight body.

When I am trying not to think about bad food I am now obsessing with Pinterest. Addicted. I want 75% of everything on here. Also I have seen things I wouldn't usually have seen. Apparently the entire world but me has seen this incredible video.

Cheese Scones are like crack to me. I want them all the time. I didn't even used to have scones often before I started eating healthy. Now I think about them every single day. They are so bad for me at the moment. But oh. so. good. *drool.

That's all I have time for tonight. I have one thousand essays to complete, a presentation to prepare, cramps to kill and Zzz's to catch. Oh - and the Fossa are back to their old tricks again.

Have a great week everyone.

30 PSC: Day Ten - "Lying underneath the stars"

2011-05-31T09:20:00.002+12:00

Day Ten - A song that makes you fall asleep.

Obviously not because they are boring but because they are soothing. I used to listen to these to get to sleep when Brad was working night shift.

John Hiatt - Feels like Rain
Procol Harum - Whiter Shade of Pale

And Sade's, By Your Side....

30 PSC: Day Nine - "Everybody's Dancing"

2011-05-30T19:49:00.001+12:00

Day Nine- A song that you can Dance to.

Toploader - Dancing in the Moonlight
LMFAO - Everyday I'm Shuffling
The Knack - My Sharona

La Roux - Bulletproof

Bob Marley - Is this Love

30 PSC: Day Eight - "Singing in my soul"

2011-05-24T16:10:00.001+12:00

Day Eight - A song you know all the words to.

There are so many songs that I now all the words to. But this one stuck out. And it just happens to be beautiful.

30 PSC: Day Seven - "Get down girl"

2011-05-20T15:35:00.005+12:00

Day Seven - A Song that reminds you of a certain event.

SO easy, and SO many to choose from.

Ordinary World - Duran Duran. This song was a classic radio fave from my childhood. One night at an under-age rave in Wellington one of the DJ's played a dance remix of it. I instantly loved it. BUT that's not the event it reminds me of. It reminds me of my 7th Form Ball in High School. A good friend/Ball Date/Aspiring DJ remixed a remix of the song (he cut out most of the boring bits so it started round the 2:22 mark) and put it on to a CD. He gave it to the DJ to play that night at the Ball as a surprise for me. I was out in the foyer getting my photo taken when I heard it start to play. I sprinted to the dance floor, tripped on some camera wires and ripped my dress. It was worth it. What an awesome thing to do! So thankful for such a sweet gesture. Boys every where...TAKE NOTES.

You oughta be in Love - Dave Dobbyn. This song was played while we were eating dinner at my Mum and her husbands wedding in the summer of 2006. Brad and I had only been going out for two weeks so all in all it reminds me of that butterfly-ish just falling in love feeling.

Wagon Wheel - Old Crow Medicine Show. This song was played at my cousins 21st. She's a farm girl. Her friends made a dance circle and their was a lot of foot stamping. Hilarious.

I got a woman vs. Gold Digger - Ray Charles & Kanye West, Diplo Remix.

This song reminds me of my 21st Birthday Party. We had the initial party on a boat in Wellington Harbour. Once we had docked most of my family (including my step-grandparents!) and a handful of friends headed to the clubs. Just as we started getting in to it the DJ left his booth and let a crappy play list do it's thing. We were not happy. Enter a group of men celebrating a Stag Night. One guy approached my sister and asked her and the rest of the ladies to dance. We giggled and said thanks but no thanks,with the excuse being that we were not down with the crappy beats. This guy loved the challenge and said "If I can get them to play some decent music then will you all dance with us?"

As we had already tried and tried we assumed it would never happen and said yes.

Moments later we looked over at the DJ. He was surrounded by young men with angry faces and threatening eyes. One of the DJ's mates got in to the booth and started playing some remixes. We looked at the dance floor full of men with smiles of accomplishment. We all got up to dance, step-grandparents included. In fact it was the high-light of the night.

30 PSC: Day Six - "A love that I cannot hide"

2011-05-18T20:54:00.002+12:00

Day Six - A song that reminds you of somewhere.

This song reminds me of a house my Dad lived in when I was about eight or nine. It was a cute house ten minutes out of town in the "country-side". It had a big veranda and french doors. Every time I hear this song I think of the cute house, our dog Tama and Flying Fish Pizza.

30 PSC: Day Five- "Kelsey"

2011-05-17T21:20:00.001+12:00

Day Five - A song that reminds you of someone.

Again..so easy. I have a memory song attached to pretty much every person in my life.

The one that sticks out the most though, reminds me of my sister Kelsey. When my Mum went in to labour when having Kelsey, there were a few complications. I remember being so excited when Dad woke me up and told me I'd have to be a big girl and get my self dressed because Mummy was having the baby. I was so excited. I got up and put on the best outfit ever: Navy blue tights, a purple patchwork leather skirt and a Minnie Mouse t-shirt. Oh yeah - eighties baby. I collected the present that Mum and I had chosen for me to give to my little brother or sister. I went in to the bathroom and saw Mum sitting in the bath crying. I don't remember worrying. I just remember seeing a lot of blood and thinking that it must all be a part of having a baby. The next memory I have is of ass haulin' ass in the car to my Nan and Grandad's (and then of course Mm and Dad went to the Hospital!). It was dark and the mood was tense. The radio was on. I don't remember the music. But Mum and Dad in later years, told us that this song came on. When they heard it they knew that everything would be ok. And it was. Now every time I hear this song I think of my beautiful sister Kelsey and I feel blessed and lucky to share my life with her.

30 PSC: Day Four - "Sometimes it hurts"

2011-05-16T10:33:00.002+12:00

Day Four: Songs that make you sad.

Easy.

Adele - Someone like you. Hasn't everyone felt this way at some stage in their life?

Ben Harper - In the Lord's arms.

This song reminds me of a tough time in my life. I was having lots of testing done (which eventually led to my PCOS diagnoses) and Doctor's kept on talking about fertility/infertility to the seventeen year old me. It was way too much for me to deal with, I mean I was seventeen after all. So I based my year thirteen painting portfolio on fertility and used some of the lyrics to this song. I had my Maori teacher translate the lyrics for me (so hardly anyone would understand it). On the last day of school all the portfolio were displayed in the staff room. My Maori teacher saw my painting. On speaking to me at our poroporoaki, he cried. He was one of the few people that could understand what I was trying to get out. He really truly understood how I was feeling, and he was feeling it for me too. I always think about this part of my life when I hear this song. It does make me sad, but not for the same reasons any more.

30 PSC: Day Three - "The right track".

2011-05-15T17:55:00.003+12:00

Day Three: Songs that make you happy.
This is another difficult one, because a whole heap of songs make me happy. Here are a few that are guaranteed to make me smile. Most of these have very happy memories attached to them. They also are all bouncy and joyful sounding.

Here comes the Sun - Nina Simone cover. Just beautiful.
Party Rock Anthem - LMFAO. This tune is catchy! The video also makes me laugh.
Sugar Town - Nancy Sinatra. Cutesy, cutesy, cutesy.
Born this way - Lady Gaga. This song is uplifting. Yes, the video is strange, but I love this song. At least she's not singing about hitting on dudes - hard.

Lastly, this song always makes me so happy I want to sing it out loud, wherever I hear it. It also makes me want to wear a mood ring - anyone else?

"Camera Phone"

2011-05-14T18:08:00.001+12:00

Last week I downloaded all the pictures I have taken on my phone over the past 18 months.
Some of them were taken purely with the intention of sharing them with you, but I never got around to it.

I wont bomb you with the lot but here are some things that I think are pretty cool (or..at least I did at the time)

My first time at a Louis Vuitton store, had to pxt Erica for proof.

Is this not the most deliciously juicy strawberry ever?

Geek Goddess? Thought of you Ange.

My hair when I had JUST got my fringe cut. No matter how hard you try your hair never looks as good as it does when you leave the salon. It's so unfair.

I pxt this to a friend urgently upon seeing it. It is the key ingredient for an amazing jaffa cheesecake recipe that we have. The custard was MIA for years, until making a limited time come back this Christmas. Delicious.

Sevens weekend in Wellington always brings a few interesting sights. A friend and I thought the irony of Sumo's in front of a Gym was just too cute.

Coming back from the Martinborough Fair in March. Yup, that's right folks, I've got a bad case of Snowcone fever.

FRUCHE. Is the name of that yoghurt that I could not remember last July. It is back. And it is still delicious.

Sunset at Raumati Beach. Gutted I didn't have my "real" camera with me.

Brad getting a gas high to get the bolts removed from his arm post-surgery.

Which bolts?

These ones!

What do you do when the sunshade breaks? Give a two year old your sunglasses.

Look what I found at The Warehouse!

I want to buy this and make GIANT cupcakes.

Or even baby giant ones....

Got Bread?

A Birthday Cake I made for Brad's sister.

30 PSC: Day Two - "Dancing like we're dumb"

2011-05-14T13:05:00.006+12:00

Day One: Your favourite song.

ugh. Day one brings perhaps the most difficult from the list. So I'm skipping it and leaving it until last :)

~~Day One: Your favourite song.~~ Day Two: Your least favourite song.

I have so many songs that could fit today's category. For starters, basically everything on Brad's iPod. Not a fan of heavy metal. Not a fan of screaming as vocals. This song is not from that category. However, it is one of Brad's guilty pleasures. It is just so stupid. It hurts my ears.*Gag.

"The Music in me"

2011-05-13T10:37:00.004+12:00

On Facebook this past week or so I have noticed people posting youtube videos, with the heading "30 day song challenge". I wanted to find out more, so, I did. And I want in.

Although I'm not sure If I could manage thirty days, so I'm bringing it over here for thirty posts. Anyone care to join in on blogger?

I might not make it through all thirty and some I may choose to skip. Some posts may have a few songs instead of one.

Here are the "rules":

day 01 - your favourite song

day 02 - your least favourite song
day 03 - a song that makes you happy
day 04 - a song that makes you sad
day 05 - a song that reminds you of someone
day 06 - a song that reminds you of somewhere
day 07 - a song that reminds you of a certain event
day 08 - a song that you know all the words to
day 09 - a song that you can dance to
day 10 - a song that makes you fall asleep
day 11 - a song from your favourite band
day 12 - a song from a band you hate
day 13 - a song that is a guilty pleasure
day 14 - a song that no one would expect you to love
day 15 - a song that describes you
day 16 - a song that you used to love but now hate
day 17 - a song that you hear often on the radio
day 18 - a song that you wish you heard on the radio
day 19 - a song from your favourite album
day 20 - a song that you listen to when you’re angry
day 21 - a song that you listen to when you’re happy
day 22 - a song that you listen to when you’re sad
day 23 - a song that you want to play at your wedding
day 24 - a song that you want to play at your funeral
day 25 - a song that makes you laugh
day 26 - a song that you can play on an instrument
day 27 - a song that you wish you could play
day 28 - a song that makes you feel guilty
day 29 - a song from your childhood
day 30 - your favourite song at this time last year

I'll start tomorrow....

"Rockin Them Open Toes"

2011-05-12T18:18:00.000+12:00

I am a lucky girl. A few weeks ago I got a belated Valentine's gift.

New Shoes.

New Heels, to be precise.

Platform, open-toe, patent nude pumps.

I am 6ft tall in these babies. I love it. Nobody else likes me being that tall.

Too bad for everyone else, because I love them. So far I've been wearing them to glam up skinny jeans and a nice top for going out to dinner. Will try them with a black skirt next, for an upcoming engagement party.

"...E hï ake ana te atakura"

2011-05-06T10:58:00.002+12:00

I've been feeling a tad average this week. Uni is busy and I have a sinus infection among other things that are playing on my mind. This morning I had a bad dream that spiders were climbing all over my face. In my dream I was trying to call out to Brad but couldn't get the words out. The sound of my voice calling out for Brad IRL was what woke me up. I got out of bed and pulled back the curtain to see if his ute was still outside. It was about 7am but this time,so his ute was gone (*at this point I remember him coming in to kiss me goodbye).
I went to bath room and returned moments later to climb in to bed with EM Forster. I hadn't pulled the curtain back properly. All I could see was orange light. I wondered if Brad had come home, and I could see the lights from his ute. He hadn't.

This is what I saw.

A sunrise this vibrant is rare where I live (behind large hills). I grabbed my camera and slipped on Brad's kicks with my pyjamas and ran up the wet sand dune that separates our property from the beach.

It was glorious. It's moments like this that take my breath away, that centre me and put things in to perspective. They humble me. They remind me that God exists and can be seen in all the beauty we have around us every day. What a great way to start the day.

"The Princess Bride"

2011-05-05T10:58:00.000+12:00

Last weekend a friend an I got together to watch the royal wedding. We were beyond excited to see history in the making, and of course...the dress.
We had anticipated more people joining us - so we made a cake to go with our champagne.

So what did we think of the wedding? We LOVED it.
We both thought that Kate errr Catherine looked so beautiful, graceful and her dress was divine.
We had done sketches of what we thought her dress would look like. If we were to stick our two sketches together, it would be spot on!

Did you watch? What did you think?

"Days like this"

2011-05-03T22:09:00.000+12:00

Have you ever had one of those days where you just feel....

You feel something. But you can't explain it.

It is tired. It is confused. It is hurt. It is worried.

But you just can't explain it properly.

It sits like a knot in your stomach. A lump in your throat. An aching in your body. A hot prickly feeling behind your eyes.

You want to stop it. But you don't know how to.

You know why it's there. But you don't know how to fix it.

It's one of those feelings that makes you question yourself, and every one else around you.

Just when you thought you had a handle on things, as a mature "grown-up" woman, you get a day like this.
And all of a sudden, you feel like a fifteen year old again. Unsure of yourself, and the path that lies ahead.

C is for Cookie

2011-04-20T15:01:00.003+12:00

One of Brad's favourite cookies are these light and thin over sized cookies. When I was living at Mums, she really liked them too, so did her husband. A full tin would be gone in a couple of days. Just as well these cookies are super simple to make.
I once posted about a big batch of cookies, and Mariah questioned me asking if twenty seven cookies was generally a big batch for me, as it wasn't for her. But these suckers are big!
I usually make these with a combo of choc chips and smashed up chocolate melts in both milk and white varieties. Today I only had choc chips in the cupboard, so I rolled with that. Normally they'd be called Triple Chocolate Chunk Cookies. But today, in my house they're just Giant Choc Chip Cookies.

Triple Chocolate Chunk Cookies

2 C Flour
1 tsp Baking Powder
1 tsp Salt
2 tsp Vanilla
225g soft Butter, cubed.
1 C Sugar
1/2 C Brown Sugar
1 Egg (at room temp)
1 Egg white (at room temp)
Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
1 C (or more) of a mix of your favourite chocolate chips/chunks/drops

Sieve dry ingredients in to a 1 Litre measuring jug. Whisk together.
Beat Butter and Both Sugars, until light and fluffy. Add eggs, vanilla and cinnamon and beat until combined.
Add dry ingredients, in two batches, beating on low speed.
Add Chocolate and stir in with a wooden spoon.

Take heaped dessert spoons full of the dough and shape in to balls. Place dough balls on a lined oven tray, and press down slightly with hands.

Bake at 175 degrees Celsius for 12 minutes.

"Candle In the Wind"

2011-04-20T10:48:00.001+12:00

I love candles. I especially love scented candles. I am now at the point where cheap scented candles (thank-you The Warehouse) just will not cut it. I've also heard a little bit about the nasty chemicals which are mainly found in the cheaper candles. So recently I've been on the lookout for some delicious scented candles, of the tad more luxurious calibre. Here are a few which I like.

Pomegranate and Raspberry Scented Candle - The Body Shop
Price: $40
Burn time: 40 hours
Ingredients: Made of responsibly sourced palm oil, paraffin free (no yucky chemicals) with an unbleached cotton wick.
Smells Like: Deliciousness. I love the fruity and fresh smell of this candle. It almost smells like a really delicious fruity candy. Would be perfect for Spring/Summer.
Where you can buy it: Check here for a store closest to you, or if you're outside of NZ, you can buy online.
Verdict: 40 hours is quite a long time, but in comparison to other candles in the same price range, the burning time is half of it's competitors. Not great value.

Love Candle - Ecoya
Price: $53.25
Burn Time: 60 hours
Ingredients: Hand poured natural soy wax. Presented in a Sorrento jar with velvet drawstring bag & gift box.
Smells Like: Sexiness! The scent of the Love Candle is noted as Pink Champagne. It is a beautiful warm, almost spicy smelling. It has notes of blackcurrant and blood orange, but it's not too overwhelming.
Where you can buy it: at Ecoya online, or check here for local stockists.
The verdict: A really beautiful smell. Not sure if I'd be too keen to have it as an everyday scent as it is quite sexy smelling. It is the most expensive of the bunch, add that to it's lack of versatility, I probably wont be saving my pennies up for this one.

Tahaa -Vanilla Caramel Triple Scented Candle - Glasshouse Fragrances
Price: $49.90
Burn time: 80 hours
Ingredients: Made in Australia using Non-toxic, food grade wax. Double wick for even burning. Also comes in a re-usable glass jar, with lid (to use as a snuffer).
Smells Like: You crawled inside a caramel sundae. I could subtly smell this candle as I was walking down Lambton Quay. I followed the delicious warm smell of caramel to Peter Alexander, where I discovered these candles. The smell of this candle is incredibly inviting and not overpowering or too sweet, as some vanilla candles can be. If you have a stockist near you, go in and smell this baby!
Where you can buy it: Peter Alexander Stores nationwide or Click here for other stockists both in NZ and international.
The verdict: The shop assistant said she had bought this candle, and that she hadn't started burning it yet, because the smell was amazing, from just having it in her room. For 80 hours burn time, compared to the Body Shop's candle, it is quite good value. My favourite of the bunch. Start the saving.

Thank-you

2011-04-17T21:04:00.000+12:00

On Friday night over on Facebook, a friend and I were discussing baking. Well, piping bags and nozzles to be precise. Johanna, from One Girl's Thoughts on Life, piped (teeheehee) in and said she had some of the new brand that she didn't need and asked if I would like them. I said I would. She said she would drop them off Saturday. I said that I'd swap her some cupcakes but that would have to be next week as I was busy over the weekend. She said that was fine. We made a deal.

I arrived home today to find this waiting for me.

You are such a sweet lady Johanna and I love your blog too. Thank-you so much for a lovely surprise, you made my day.

Thank-you, Thank-you, Thank-you.

Cupcakes shall be on there way soon.

"Every day, I'm Shuffling"

2011-04-14T15:51:00.003+12:00

So it's essay time again. You know what that means...I've tuned in to the procrastination station.

Here are some things that I have Googled, over the past week, when I am procrastinating from completing assignments.

"How to pronounce L'OCCITANE"

"How long does Coconut Milk last?"

"What ~~the hell~~ is Primogeniture?"

"OPI Mermaid Tears"

"Nutritional information for reduced cream"

"Swarovski Nirvana Ring"

"Engagement gift ideas"

"Flood icing"

"Photo wall ideas"

"Badgley Mischka Shoes"

"Flash Diffuser for Canon EOS 1000D"

"Hugh Hefner's Fiancee cheating with Dr Phil's son"

Why do I do this? In the time that I've Googled all these bits of mostly useless information, I could have written an entire post...or better yet completed some of my many assignments.

Imagine being a Kennedy

2011-04-06T10:06:00.001+12:00

I got a few guesses and a few emails telling me to hurry up with the reveal.

I WAS Jacqueline Kennedy. Well actually we both were Kennedy's. It was a bit of a fail on Brads part. When we were standing apart people looked at him and said "I don't get your costume". But with our powers combined!

Some more pics from the party...

Pocketful of Sunshine

2011-04-05T20:31:00.004+12:00

The lotto powerball jackpot sits at thirty two MILLION dollars this week.
On the train ride to uni last week I sat and day dreamed about what I would do with the money.

Of course I dream of helping charities, travelling, designer shoes etc., etc.

But this dream was more about what I would like to do day-to-day.

I'd open my own Cupcakery. I sat on the train and thought about all the different flavours I'd bake in my shop.

Today, my friends Ren and George and I made three of them.

Lemon Meringue Pie...

Coconut Ice...

Cookies and Cream...

Topped with a mini Oreo...

Doesn't that Lemon Meringue number just look like a pocketful of sunshine?

What would you do with THAT much money?

Road to Morocco

2011-04-04T08:00:00.001+12:00

Ok, so this is not one of my recipes. I ~~stole~~ adapted it from a good friend. And it is amazingly delicious and twice as easy. I don't have a photo of the dish, but to be honest she ain't a looker. But trust me, if you like Moroccan flavours, you should love this tasty dinner. You can make this in your slow-cooker or in a standard casserole dish in the oven.

Moroccan Chicken Casserole

Ingredients:
4 Skinless,boneless Chicken Breasts
1 Medium Onion
1 TBSP ground Coriander
1 TBSP ground Cumin
1 tsp Turmeric
1/4 tsp Cinnamon
2 cloves fresh Garlic
400g (or near enough) Can of Chickpeas.
410g (or near enough) Can of Apricots in natural juice
1 1/2 chicken stock cubes
Plain flour for dusting the meat\
1 TBSP Butter

Drain your chickpeas and rinse them well. Set aside.

Add a couple of tablespoons of flour to a zip lock bag with the chicken.
Close Bag and shake to coat meat.

Using a little oil of your choice, lightly brown the chicken breasts on each side.

Set chicken aside in a crock pot or casserole dish.

In a clean pan, using a TBSP butter, sweat out the diced onion.
Add all of the spices, chopped garlic and the drained chickpeas to the onion.
Stir to coat peas with spices.
Pour chickpea and spice mix over the chicken.

Drain Apricots, reserving the juice. Use the juice and extra hot water to makeup the stock to one and a half cups.
Pour Apricots and stock over the chicken and chickpeas.

Bake covered on 185 degrees Celsius for an hour or in the crock pot for 7-8 hours on low.

This is great with couscous and a salad.
For the colder months (and for those who have partners/flatties/husbands that don't like couscous) I always serve it with green beans and garlic mashed potatoes.

For your Garlic Mash just add a peeled clove of garlic for every two serves of potatoes to the pot when you put the raw spuds in. Once boiled, drain and be careful not to tip the cloves out. Leave the boiled cloves in the pot when you mash 'em up as you usually do - de-lish!

Guess Who

2011-04-03T18:25:00.002+12:00

Brad & I attended a Birthday Party over the weekend. Actually it was a double-Birthday. A guy that I work with turned thirty, and so did his wife. It was a dress-up party, and seeing as we were celebrating two thirtieths, appropriately (and awesomely) the theme was 1960's.

Can you tell, by the close-ups, who I went dressed as?

Take a guess by leavin' some comment lovin'. Come on it's pretty easy!

P.S: If you do actually know, because I told you, or you were there, then...Ssshh!

"Live Your Life

2011-03-31T12:48:00.002+13:00

Something that I've wanted to post about for the past few months is success. As I have an assignment due tomorrow and am 0/1000 on my word count, I thought "hey, now is a great time to ~~procrastinate~~ write a post".

A few months ago when I was re-enrolling for my last year of university I was struck down with a multitude of emotions.
I felt relieved that this would be my last undergraduate year.
I felt proud that I had finally made it to this point.
Then I felt embarrassed.

I felt embarrassed because of the time it has taken me to complete my degree. Yes, I've had a few stop/starts which were beyond my control. But I also had a few bouts of failure.
I am reminded of this every day that I sit in a class with students that had not even begun high-school, when I began at University.
I am reminded of this every time that Brad and I talk about plans for the future. I get mad at myself and feel as if it weren't for those failures that we would be realising those dreams now. It hurts.

The reason I wanted to post about this, is because I know others in my life hurt too. We look at the achievements or milestones in the lives of those we know, and instead of feeling out right joy for them, our feelings of congratulations are marred with a tinge of jealousy.

We wonder what life would be like if we took a different career path.
We dream about where we would be if only we had done some thing different.
We wish that we had finished our degrees, and were out in the real world, earning real money.
We worry that we may never know what it is we want to be when we "grow up".
We feel like we may be stuck at uni/in an un-fulfilling job forever.

We have got to stop measuring ourselves against the success of others, their relationships, their jobs, their fortunes.

We have to focus on our own happiness, in what ever shape or form it may take. And whilst we are at it we may as well take an audit of all the wonderful things we have in our own lives.
All this energy wasted on entertaining the possibilities of our parallel lives is pointless.
In wanting what others have, we miss the beauty of what we have already been blessed with, our partners, children, our friends and family and for some freedom.

I sat at my Faculty Adviser's desk yesterday. He remarked on how long I had been at University, and how many papers I had missed. He rudely, albeit, subtly suggested how embarrassing that might be for me. This is what I said:

"Yes I have failed a few papers. But I'm still here, aren't I? And I'm applying to Graduate in December, so it can't be that bad, can it?"

Some people say that to enjoy life you must live it without regrets.

I don't believe this to be true.

What I do believe is that whatever life you're living, enjoy it. It's yours, and only yours. You can have regrets, as long as they are your regrets. You can and will have failures, but make sure that you failed doing something that you chose to do, not what others were doing or wanted you to do. It is your life after all, you may as well make the most of it.

Think about it.

“No I am sorry I think you've mistaken me for somebody else”

2011-03-24T11:58:00.001+13:00

When I was in my last year of high school I hung out with a girl who had a sister who was three years younger than us. One night I was staying at this girl’s house and her sister had a friend over too. My friends parents were going out for dinner that night, so the younger sister’s friend’s Mum popped in to ~~say hi~~ check on us. This girls Mum was and still is a local bus driver.

About eight months after I met this lady, I met her again as I was getting on a bus after a long, looooong day at work. I was tired. The bus driver might have said “hi Becky”. I was so tired that I just registered the “hi” and I said hello back and found a seat. I thought about it on that ride home. Did she call me Becky?

I told myself “Oh well next time if you are certain she says Becky, just say actually it’s Nicole”.

A few weeks passed and I saw her again on the bus. She didn’t say my name, but we had a big, quite in-depth talk about her kids, and her job and what I was doing with my life. It was a nice chat. As I stepped off the bus and on to the foot path she called out “See you next time Rebecca!”
I cringed. I turned to correct her. The doors closed and the bus pulled away. I just stood there on the curb, feeling like twit.

I didn’t catch the bus as much after that. Not because I was avoiding her, but Brad and I usually drove to uni together or I bummed a ride with his parents.

Four years passed by and I am now back catching the bus. Every now and again I see this bus driver. And she always greets me with “Hi Rebecca”, or “Good Morning Becky”.

Now it is awkward.

It has gone far too long for me to tell her that my name is not Rebecca.
Hasn’t it?

If I tell her now, she will be the one left feeling silly. Well that’s not entirely true, she won’t be the only one.

So the other morning I’m standing at the bus stop, and I see the bus come around the corner, and this particular driver is in the driver’s seat. I said to myself, “just tell her”. I said it in my head over and over “actually, funny story, my name is not Rebecca, it’s Nicole”. I play over the awkward silence in my head.

The bus stopped.

The doors opened.

I got on.

“Morning Becky, where are you off to love?”

“Just the station Thanks”.

I guess I will have to continue on being Becky. At least for the twenty minute drive on occasional mornings.

''The Landlord'

2011-03-18T12:54:00.000+13:00

The house that we rent is a self-contained flat, which is downstairs from a main house. The land-lord's beach house. This means that we have the place to ourselves most of the time, but occasionally we have to share. This is no problem for us as our land-lords are nice, easy-going, lovely people.

One thing that has been a little annoying lately is that they are having some work done on their house. This means we have a lot of tradesmen around. Mostly they are pretty good, but the early starts are staring to wear my patience thin, especially on my day off when all I want to do is sleep-in.
Luckily for us our landlords are great. One of them popped in on the builders one day and this is what I heard him say to them through the floor boards "Hey, turn that music down! I have tenants downstairs, they shouldn't have to put up with this! And you guys need to tidy this place up!" Then all you could hear was his footsteps stomping down the hall-way. If you listened really carefully you could have heard a few heads hanging in shame.
Thirty minutes later said land-lord came downstairs and apologised over and over for the mess and the loud music. He also handed us a big bottle of nice bubbles to apologise. How unnecessarily kind. Now if only he were here today to cull the loud, constant swearing and the littering of energy drink cans everywhere. But on the other hand it will be fun to hear his reaction when he checks in this afternoon. Look out sloppy builders.

I heart our land-lord.