Best and worst of 2011

  • 15 Dec

    Best and worst of 2011

    15, Dec, 2011 (2:44 PM)

    As another year nears the end, we want you - our readers - to tell us the highs and lows of your life in 2011.

    What were the best of times?

    What were the worst of times?

    So, please share your memories of 2011 here.

    Disclaimer: The views expressed in these blogs are not necessarily those of National Seniors Australia. This blog is moderated and any content deemed inappropriate by the administrator will be removed, including comments that are offensive or discriminatory; libellous or defamatory; breach copyright, unless we have the owner’s permission to use it; or contain personal or commercially confidential material. Personal attacks will be deleted by the moderator. The use of this blog to broadcast overtly party-political messages is also prohibited. The moderator’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Any personal details shared here are public and can be found on internet searches.


    This blog is now closed.

Comments (127)

  1. Lorikeet - 22, December, 2011 (14:11)

    Most people can be happy and joyful without behaving like turkeys, or perhaps it would be more appropriate to say "poults".

    I hope those with heaps of money to spend on Christmas largess gave a large donation of Christmas cheer to the poor.

    To those who have a decent set of manners, I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

  2. Bob B - 22, December, 2011 (13:51)

    Oh I forgot. There will be no goose.

  3. Bob B - 22, December, 2011 (13:49)

    Now that ham just picked up from the specialty butcher will be well glazed on the day with some apple and cherry sauce on the side. A nice turkey breast is being prepared for a kettle cook in juices to retain the moistness and a good settling period after cooking to enhance the succulent flavours. A little hickory in the fire for a delicate smoking.

    For dessert my mothers' recipe Christmas pudding made with well soaked fruit with big dolops of brandy sauce to boot.

    How about some cheeses and fruit to finish whilst suckling a botrytis semillon.

    Bring it on.

    May I wish all those happy NSA bloggers and the NSA moderator a very Merry Christmas and I look forward to a vibrant New Year. And for those not quite with the happy bit yet I wish you a quick recovery to happiness and joyfullness.

  4. Helen - 22, December, 2011 (13:32)

    Dearest Monitor
    You are of course invited as a "Special Guest" to our Virtual Xmas Party if you would like to come. It is a grump free, complaints free zone. Just pure Christmas cheer allowed...x

    ps Perhaps you have an idea for a dish to contribute

  5. Helen - 22, December, 2011 (13:27)

    Have a safe trip Kay. I am v disappointed that you won't be at our party to hear Robyn & I sing & to eat all the wonderful fair.

    Not much for sweets as yet. I might toss in a lovely crispy salad (all natural) with tropical fruit as well to make it even yummier.

    Off to brave the shops for the last time til post/Chrissy. Might not be back for a while, keep the menue coming & some other entertainment too if there are "other" talented people out there who dance, sing or play with than a C keyboard - cheers, Dashing through the crowd with a trolley in the shop. pushing through the herd, OMG it doesn't stop! tralalalalaaaa etc...

  6. Kay Kelly - 22, December, 2011 (11:45)

    A merry Christmas and a wonderful 2012 to all fellow senior bloggers!!

    This blog strand has been quite fascinating! It got a bit slow at one stage, so our dear feathered friend dredged up a supposed little point of contention - namely Robyn's comment about anger (it wasn't really a point of contention - we were coming at 'anger' from different directions!). So she threw in a little hook to get everyone going. And naturally she threw in some insults. Then of course (8:46 21/11), our friend did her usual 'victim' act - same old, same old!! Ho hum!! How tedious. And obviously the Moderator is in her sights again! Of course, I will get abused now, but who cares? I don't!

    Tomorrow we are off to Sydney - so we will drive carefully and hope for a safe trip.

  7. Robyn - 22, December, 2011 (10:45)

    Interesting how grumpy, grumble, grouchy and gruntle all start with "gr". Very fitting!

    I would like to wish YOU a very happy Xmas dear Moderator. I hope you enjoy a very well deserved rest (from us). May 2012 be smoother for you in blogland. Christmas is the time to believe in miracles!

  8. John O'Grady - 22, December, 2011 (10:29)

    Helen, 'naughty' might have been a little severe, perhaps 'cheeky' ??

    To the menu.

    Really fresh veg, steamed to perfection, just below the crunch. Carrots, beans, snow peas plus baked potatoes and pumpkin.

    Oh, yes .. the vegetarians. Well we do respect all persuasions and invite them to simply ignore the meat and do what they do best, consume vege's.

    Who is going to volunteer for the new moderator's spot? How about Peter Slipper?

  9. Helen - 22, December, 2011 (10:17)

    Naughty, ME! Why's so John.
    I'm pure as the snow on Santa's sleigh!
    Are you coming to our Christmas Party? It's tomorrow so there's so much to do. Not enough variety as yet with the menue, more contributions please.

    Rum Balls, Turkey, Spaetzler & fine wine is not enough. I think Bob is bringing the ham (is that right Bob?) I heard "goose" mentioned. Might be a bit much though (even moderated)..

    No puddings, spec salads or vegies as yet. Also we need something for the vegetarians.

    We need a complete menue before zapping hr tdy.

    Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, tralalaalaalaaaaaaa...

  10. John O'Grady - 22, December, 2011 (9:40)

    Helen, you are just a tad naughty!

    Lorikeet, I don't think that you will get very far calling the moderator a goose!

    'tis the season to be jolly.

  11. Helen - 22, December, 2011 (7:26)

    Good morning all Yawn... So excited to see that our Virtual Christmas party is growing.

    I would be proud to perform with Robyn & if Opera is want you want then just choose an Aria & I'll learn it Rob.

    I'll supply the turkey with my v special stuffing & perhaps some Spaetzler (German tucker) home made pasta. We need other contributions.

    It seems the grog is in hand & Robyn & I need an orchestra to support our fine voices.

    Oh jingle bells, jingle bells, jingle all the way. Out with grumpy bloggers, ignored, cos they've lost their way la lala lalala etc..

  12. Lorikeet - 22, December, 2011 (4:50)

    Yes, I understand what you mean. We might as well be counting the fly spots on the wall.

    Or are you suggesting that Telstra should cancel some internet accounts? That could be a prize winning suggestion.

    I think the NSA should make a New Year's Resolution to choose a new Blog Administrator/Moderator, one who is more even handed and will actually stop schoolyard bullies from abusing specific people.

    Last week I asked for 4 or 5 blog posts which contained name calling and other insulting commentary to be removed from the blog. After an entire week, abusive comments remain, despite a lengthy NSA disclaimer that specifically states that offensive comments will not be tolerated.

    This clearly depends on whether or not the people making offensive comments have the same views as the current Moderator on a particular issue.

  13. bvPUFzQnXDBUCut - 21, December, 2011 (19:48)

    J7N95d , [url=http://jyjrkoyramkf.com/]jyjrkoyramkf[/url], [link=http://qnmqlxougemo.com/]qnmqlxougemo[/link], http://xpvqoddzeqmm.com/

  14. Bob B - 21, December, 2011 (18:38)

    A performing granny, Robyn. The mind boggles.

    My red was nice with lamb chops and roasted veg - its quite cool here. Tomorrow night some of the few prawns being caught on the Gold Coast grounds at the moment. Smallish and sweet. Bought them this morning as I sit in the Seaway Tower at Southport and watch them come in so I know when to buy by the 'weight' in the boats as they sail past. Now that is Yummy and we have a few days or so to go.

    I have some bigger 'brothers' in the freezer for Christmas dinner. We have turkey, pork and ham for lunch bought from our local butcher who 'smokes' his own and has u bute meat. I joke with him about the east or west side of Flinders Is for his 'island' beef.

    Bring it on. I'll worry about paying the credit card off later!!!!

  15. Robyn - 21, December, 2011 (17:24)

    Wow John, your red wine sounds great. We can have a good debate over the meaning of "gruntle" while partaking of Mr/Ms Regruntled's gift to you which you will so kindly share with us.

    The prawn and beer entre has my mouth watering. Have you ever heard the verse "beer before wine is fine but wine before beer, no fear!"? We must drink our beer first.

    What will Helen and I be performing? I need to start practising whatever it is. Opera is my forte but I will do anything really.

  16. John O'Grady - 21, December, 2011 (17:09)

    I'm in for any party where Helen & Robyn are going to perform. I will bring wine - a red. Penfolds bin 389 1999 vintage. Hehehe ... I'm looking at the label of a bottle given to me, sitting on my desk. I know it is a good one and that is the bottle to take to the party.
    Actually the bottle on my desk was given to me by a 'regruntled' customer. I don't know if there is such a word - I am trying to find the antithesis for 'disgruntled'. What is a 'gruntle' anyway? Does anyone know or undedstand the word?
    Well, back to the party. Can't beat loads of prawns for entree, peeled with tails on,
    served really cold with a dash of seafood sauce, accompanied by beer, also very cold.
    Don't really need much more!

  17. Bob B - 21, December, 2011 (17:04)

    There are just too many YUMMY things about at Christmas. Those rum balls will be given a go as they are quick and easy.

    I agree that all grouches should be overlooked and left to grouch about themselves and not affect others.

    Ho Ho Ho its time for a red.

  18. Helen - 21, December, 2011 (16:27)

    They sound "really yummy" Robyn. Pouters will be ignored. Funsters are welcome to come to my party.

    Any other ideas? Rum Balls are not enough. We might all end up plastered if we eat them as an entree. We need an entree (or 2 or 3). How many will be coming? I have to know so I can set the table here.

    Must go now, til tomorrow, cheers... Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, Jingle, Jangle, Jingle...

  19. Robyn - 21, December, 2011 (16:13)

    Great idea Helen. I'm up for a party.

    Here is my famous rum ball recipe:

    Crush 1 packet of arrowroot biscuits in a food processor and put in a bowl.
    Add some cocoa, diced fruit medley, crushed walnuts and 1 tin of condensed milk. Chuck in as much rum as you want (I add a lot!).
    Roll into balls and toss in desiccated coconut to cover each ball. Refrigerate.
    They are YUM!

    Don't try doing the whole lot in the processor because they don't turn out as good.

  20. Robyn - 21, December, 2011 (15:46)

    You'd better be good, you'd better not pout,
    tra la la la la dum de dum da,
    Cos Santa Claus is coming to tooooown ho ho ho ho.

  21. Lorikeet - 21, December, 2011 (15:25)

    And so the immature behaviour continues.........

  22. Helen - 21, December, 2011 (14:56)

    You are all invited to my "virtual Christmas Party". Lots of food (we can share recipes) & song. Let's give all that other cr*p a miss & have some fun for the next few days or until we have to go because of family pressure.

    I will be cooking my little heart out so any personal ideas will always be treasured by me. ETS can bring the drinks. Any ideas ETS?

    Let's give it a go!!

  23. Helen - 21, December, 2011 (14:50)

    Thank you Sue Do-nim! I wish you a Merry Christmas, I wish you a Merry Christmas, I wish you a Merry christmas & a Happy N/YYYYYYYYr hmmmmmmmm x

    ps I'm being very strong. Christmas love until the N/Y...

  24. Sue Do-Nim - 21, December, 2011 (13:51)

    I was just wondering..I’ve never heard the term Exit Counsellor before.

    Apparently it’s a “tough and dangerous job ”.

    Could it be that it’s just a politically correct way of saying a Bouncer or Doorman??

    HELEN:
    You’ve got a lovely singing voice Dear, but try and hold that second syllable of silent a bit longer.

    Like this….Si..a..lent night: That’s it, you’ve got it now..…much better.

  25. Helen - 21, December, 2011 (13:30)

    Hmmmmmm! Silent night,
    Holy night Lalala, lalalaaaa etc xx

  26. Robyn - 21, December, 2011 (11:36)

    Currawong (11:02),

    Did Lorikeet say "sorry" to me? Gee, that was nice, I must have missed it. Where was it?

    Lorikeet, I accept your apology.

  27. Bob B - 21, December, 2011 (11:13)

    Lorikeet

    'Turn the other cheek', to me means to respond to an agressor without violence. It originates from the 'Sermon upon the Mount'.

    Never do wrong in return for a wrong done to you would be a better way of looking at it today. If that means you stand there meekly with the other cheek exposed then so beit, meekness is not an exclued response.

  28. Currawong - 21, December, 2011 (11:02)

    Lorikeet

    You made a first: you said 'I'm sorry'.

    Never before witnessed in this august blogg.

    I for one am impressed. It must be the Christmas spirit unless you have been on same!!!

  29. Currawong - 21, December, 2011 (11:00)

    Currawong makes a timely entrance to claim the prize offerred up by Lorikeet. I guess I'll have to guess what the prize is.

    The answer ids you yourself Lorikeet won hands down after much trying of yourself and to others.

    Please let me know oh wise one.

  30. Helen - 21, December, 2011 (10:05)

    Oh Tannen Baum oh Tannenbaum la la laa la la lala etc...

  31. Robyn - 21, December, 2011 (9:44)

    I wish you a merry Christmas, I wish you a merry Christmas, I wish you a merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
    La la lala lala la la, la la lala lala la la, la la lala lala la la, ta de dum diddle dee dee.

    (Thanks Helen)

  32. Lorikeet - 21, December, 2011 (8:46)

    Why are those who think others are constantly picking on them the worst abusers on a blog?

    Why do they form a pack of schoolyard bullies, picking on the one person nearly every week?

    There is a prize for the most accurate answers.

  33. Lorikeet - 21, December, 2011 (8:43)

    Kay Kelly - 17, December, 2011 (16:49)
    (Answer to) Robyn

    I'm sorry I hit such a raw nerve.

    -----------------

    John O'Grady - 17, December, 2011 (14:45)
    Robyn, your take on anger, its expression and the church's (pretty much any church) controlling attitude toward management is absolutely first class. That is the stuff with which we grew up and I am sure that there are many, many people who are still burning up inside, having carried their aggro for far too long.

    ---------------

    Since John and Robyn were having such huge agreement on the input of churches, I have attributed part of what John said to Robyn.

    During more than a decade of going to church, I was never indoctrinated with this repressive stuff.

    "To turn the other cheek" means to give someone a second chance, not to stand there meekly while they beat you up for the rest of your life.

  34. Mino Deus - 21, December, 2011 (8:03)

    uCzGfQzPAWWXcGHeS - 21, December, 2011 (3:50)

    Thanks for clarifying my query @ 3:50 this morning.

    " us5NyJ qjkuaigqfcba "

    That's an oldie but a goodie, isn't it.

    I wish you peace and a speedy recovery!

  35. Robyn - 21, December, 2011 (7:17)

    Can anyone point out where I stated that I am " burning up inside"? The words do not exist in any of my comments. John O'Grady used those words in a completely different context in his comment at 17 Dec (14:45). Lorikeet has not read the comments correctly.

    Further, in spite of what she says, nobody bar Lorikeet has accused me of having an anger management problem.

    Once again, facts are being distorted to introduce ugly dialogue.

    Give it a break Lorikeet. I am sick of it! Probably most of our fellow bloggers are feeling likewise.

  36. Helen - 21, December, 2011 (7:05)

    Robyn

    Keep singing - We wish you a Merry Christmas, we wish you a Merry christmas La la la lala la etc

    Peace until the N/Y (then let it rip!)...

  37. uCzGfQzPAWWXcGHeS - 21, December, 2011 (3:50)

    us5NyJ qjkuaigqfcba

  38. Lorikeet - 20, December, 2011 (21:18)

    Robyn:

    You were sticking knives into churches. No one stuck a knife into you. Perhaps a bit of professional counselling would do you some good.

    You said something about "burning up inside". Whatever is burning you needs to be dealt with. Maybe then you will be nicer to other people.

  39. Lorikeet - 20, December, 2011 (21:12)

    Any reasonable person would know I was responding to the accusation that churches teach people to repress their anger.

    It is clear I'm not the only person who commented upon Robyn's anger management problem.

    I refuse to become angered by putdowns regarding counsellors, or anyone's attempts to blame me for their own issues.

    An Exit Counsellor has a much tougher, more dangerous job than most other counsellors. A lot is riding on immediate success. Sometimes we have only an hour or so to work miracles, and none of my counsellees ever went back to their destructive cults. Even highly qualified people could not claim that kind of success.

    Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

  40. Mino Deus - 20, December, 2011 (18:44)

    tGesitLmyhOzckFqrF :
    Umm...Please ..What is this??

  41. Robyn - 20, December, 2011 (18:09)

    PS: Lorikeet,

    Your first sentence at 20 Dec (7:53) was unmistakeable in interpretation. Twisting and turning with further insult will not undo it. Why do you have this need to stick knives into others?

  42. Robyn - 20, December, 2011 (17:52)

    WEG,

    I sympathise. I would hate to have my birthday coincide with Xmas.

    John,

    Thank you for your response. So nice to be understood and supported with disclosure of personal experience.

    Lorikeet,

    You are not the only ex counsellor on this blog. Be aware that some may know what counselling is really about!

  43. tGesitLmyhOzckFqrF - 20, December, 2011 (17:48)

    Mighty useful. Make no mitsake, I appreciate it.

  44. WEG - 20, December, 2011 (17:11)

    Q? What were the best of times (2011)?
    Xmas day is just the best – the family comes together and reflect on the past year.

    Q? What were the worst of times?
    Next day, because it’s my birthday.

    How would you like to receive a Xmas card / present with the following words.

    Merry Xmas & Happy Birthday for tomorrow!

  45. Helen - 20, December, 2011 (16:34)

    Finished wrapping presents for the children. Almost ready for Christmas now.

    The grass is cut & the garden beautiful. The sun is even trying to shine. tomorrow a bit of a Christmas clean. Shopping on Thursday for last minute food. Friday thinking of what I might have forgotten & Saturday I start to make things that can be done the day before.

    Feeling quite exhausted but better knowing that I achieved something positive today.

    My son in the Air Force arrives tomorrow to stay for a while & Miss 13 is still with us & will be glad to see the rest of the family after two weeks.

    Signing off now - Cheers...

  46. Lorikeet - 20, December, 2011 (16:00)

    Mino Deus:

    Serving yourself adds to the welfare bill and puts shop assistants out of work.

    These days a large percentage of shoppers are only buying a few items at a time. I wouldn't allow that to convince me to do the job myself, knowing what the repercussions are for others.

  47. Lorikeet - 20, December, 2011 (15:56)

    As an volunteer Exit Counsellor, I did emergency counselling of those wishing to leave destructive cults, sometimes at a very late hour. This involved helping to put (mostly young) people in touch with mechanisms of control being used to make them react with Fear and Guilt.

    Then they went away and compared their experience against a list of typewritten criteria. If they required ongoing counselling after 1 or 2 sessions, I sent them to a Psychologist or Professional Counsellor.

  48. Lorikeet - 20, December, 2011 (15:55)

    A one-eyed view of religion isn't useful to us at all. Sure, there are religious bigots who really annoy us and some parents who are over the top also.

    Since I didn't explain my take on Anger Management, I'm not sure why some are so keen to jump to the worst conclusions and react in a frustrated manner.

    In general, I find it a waste of time and energy to get angry. I prefer to be proactive by thinking of ways to solve particular problems.

    In the political realm there are some very nasty people. Instead of becoming angry, I prefer to listen to what they are saying and why. Very often they are just attempting to shut down debate.

  49. John O'Grady - 20, December, 2011 (11:54)

    I was raised in a very strict Irish Catholic environment, on a sheep station, way to buggery from anywhere so there was no peer contact or influence. My home education was all there was and it did not do to argue with 'the rules'!. A non judgemental approach to conflict was NOT the order of the day, from the official teaching of the church or the parental reinforcement. This was through the 1940 - 50's and the bloody churches are still doing it, preaching a one sided 'love at all times/costs' and ignoring other normal and reasonable aspects of human behaviour. Methinks they are trying to sell something!

  50. John O'Grady - 20, December, 2011 (11:47)

    Hey, Robyn ... I just came into the blog and found a bit of a kerfuffle. Your anger management statement was perfectly clear and as far as I am concerned, right on the point. I am a Lifeline telephone counsellor and while we do not do any 'counselling' (we wouldn't know how!) but respond to callers in a reflective, non directive manner and have them sort out the issue in their own way, we do need to have a bit of a handle on what is going on. Anger and its effects comes along fairly often and, as you correctly said, it is perfectly natural. It's what we do with/about it that affects others. I also identified with your opinion re church teaching, particularly in this area. (cont)

  51. Helen - 20, December, 2011 (10:09)

    "Jingle Bells, Jingle Bells, laaa laaaa laaa laa laaaa!"

  52. Helen - 20, December, 2011 (10:06)

    I am not going to argue on any point now leading up to Christmas, so I will just ignore anything that isn't positive.

    There is too much misery in the world at the moment. Good will towards others is a great way to go to the best of our ability & doing what we can whilst not forgetting our own.

    We also all have our own thoughts on religion, I certainly have mine. I just love the concept of Christmas even if the true story might have changed along the way. It is different in other countries & even celebrated on different days as well. Who is right? Who knows, it's just nice that people think of others at one time of the year at least in a selfish society as it is today...

  53. Robyn - 20, December, 2011 (9:13)

    In case it isn't obvious, my 2nd paragraph refers to Lorikeet's entry at 20 Dec (7:53).

    I know I should ignore the goading!

  54. Robyn - 20, December, 2011 (8:25)

    John O'Grady,

    It appears that you were the only person who really understood what I was saying earlier, about the importance of separating anger experienced as emotion, and expression of anger which is behaviour over which we have choice. Thank you for your response at 17 Dec (14:45).

    It does not feel very safe to offer my own understanding of something on the blog and then have it twisted into a misrepresentation of my own behaviour.
    Makes me wonder why I bother at all with this blog! It will never change!

  55. Mino Deus - 20, December, 2011 (8:08)

    Our Coles supermarket has just installed four new Self Service Checkouts.

    Like so many of the older generation I was a tad reticent to give them a try .

    I’m so glad I did…They are terrific!

    So easy to understand and if you do encounter any difficulties the hard working supervisor is always available to assist .

    There were no long queues and especially for smaller orders I will definitely continue to embrace the technology.

    No point in remaining a Luddite ..I shall move forward.

  56. Lorikeet - 20, December, 2011 (7:53)

    I don't think anyone should be blaming churches for any Anger Management problem she might have.

    In Sunday School, I learned that Jesus got angry when bankers plied their trade in his temple, & on the Sabbath Day (day of rest).

    He turned the tables on money lenders for preying on the poor.

    Greedy bankers lured us into their superannuation funds with promises of high returns and low taxation rates, and look what has happened? Many of us had no choice in it and I have foreseen many bad flow-on effects.

    Many people are forced to work any day of the week, which cuts into family time, and bills are mounting in both size and quantity.

    A lot of problems we are having today were predicted around 2000 years ago. I'm sure the world was a much better place, and people were more respectful of one another, when more people went to church.

  57. Helen - 20, December, 2011 (7:23)

    "Mid Might" sounds like the other
    vegie or maybe pro
    Just a "typo" that's all, nothing fancy
    & for me, it's time to go!

    Have a great day Robyn...x

  58. Robyn - 19, December, 2011 (20:29)

    "Mid might" is a funny faux pas Helen. I'm sure you know I was speaking tongue in cheek. Your poem was a good effort to describe how you are feeling (busy). December and the lead up to Xmas becomes so frenzied - often seems like an anti-climax on Xmas day. We put all this effort in and then just sit around all day eating and drinking too much! But it IS nice and all worth it.

    I wonder if anyone else has anything else to say about the highs and lows of their year?

  59. Helen - 19, December, 2011 (14:01)

    I think I'll keep my day job Robyn & keep practising my poems.

    Did you note the time I did it (nearly mid might) last night.

    I'm just so busy at the moment & I have literally lost 2011 - where did it go!...

  60. Lorikeet - 19, December, 2011 (9:07)

    I have noticed that most post office workers are in the 45-65 age group, and cannot afford to be made redundant.

    At the GPO in Brisbane CBD, they have instilled copious quantities of self-service machines. I see no reason for workers to continue working during their lunch break to save the post office money, so please be vocal there also.

  61. Lorikeet - 19, December, 2011 (9:07)

    I'd like to encourage everyone to keep up the good work when they are out shopping, paying their bills and imparting advice to the younger generations around the Christmas table, as follows:

    1. Get a receipt for every purchase.
    2. Account for all of your money.
    3. Stay away from self-service checkouts.
    3. Return all "tap and go" cards to the bank.

    I am pleased to report that at my local post office, nearly everyone is rejecting the self-service machines and joining the queue, even if it is long.

    Please don't hestitate to ask loudly for service e.g. if the person supervising self-service has nothing to do, perhaps ask:

    "Can you please help us out at one of the service counters?"

    That way no one can say he/she is not meeting the customers' needs.

  62. Robyn - 19, December, 2011 (7:59)

    Helen,

    I like your poem (23:38) even though it is a bit wacky. Were you by any chance trying to compete with my far more sensible contribution at (10:24) yesterday?

  63. helen - 19, December, 2011 (7:29)

    I also wish you a safe journey Kay & any other senior who might be travelling far & wide to visit family & friends.

    May you all come back to our blog all enthused & in debating spirit in the N/Y.

    Good health & happiness to all for 2012. How many are going & how many are staying?

    Is it possible to lead into Christmas with Chrissy chear? I hope so. (I'm feeling a bit tired today) after such a busy weekend "getting ready"...

  64. Robyn - 19, December, 2011 (7:02)

    I wish you a safe journey Kay and a very happy Christmas and holiday.

    I wish everyone a Merry Christmas. May 2012 be a good year for all, with lots of "highs" and no major "lows."

  65. Kay Kelly - 19, December, 2011 (6:34)

    Busy day today. Leaving first thing tomorrow for Armidale, and thence to Sydney for Christmas/New Year.

    First thing - several backpacks of weed killer - filled the backpack yesterday and it started raining! Just enough drizzle to stop me from spraying! Hope to get some weeds dealt with today! In this weather, they grow at about a foot a week and end up 1-2 metres high (mainly cobbler's pegs, donkey weed (agapanthus) and this prickly 'tree' thing that rips your hands to bits and grows to around 3 metres in about 2 months).

    Water a few pot plants that don't get much rain.

    Then off to the Transfer Station - we don't have garbage collection. Then pack the ports and car! Got to squeeze in the Christmas pressies.

    I just hope we have a safe and uneventful journey!

  66. Helen - 18, December, 2011 (23:38)

    Where did it go?
    It was here before
    I've looked high & I've looked low
    It went in a "blink" to some other place I think!
    Just to annoy me I suppose
    When it came & when it went I looked into the mirror,
    There's one more line I didn't see before!
    It's enough to make me shiver.
    Go on! go on! Tell me please, WHERE DID IT GO!
    I'm waiting for your answer
    I've lost 2011, somewhere, & I fear it is forever!

    Good night everyone xx

  67. Bob B - 18, December, 2011 (12:29)

    Our Christmas do/carols/fireworks in the township park proved to be a success with an estimated 9,000 in attendance. Extremely tired last night when I got home at 10.30 after starting at 8.00 in the morning.

    As official photographer I must have walked miles just going around and around and around catching things as they occur. Its very enjoyable and satisfying to see just how much the kids and families love it. Well worth the effort - there are about 20 on the committee all volunteers so thats not bad.

  68. Robyn - 18, December, 2011 (11:21)

    Sue,

    I am very modest so I won't blow my own trumpet, bar to say, I am very proud of my poem. I think it is better than all of Budgie's past creations!

    Off to yet another Xmas party now.

  69. Sue Do-Nim - 18, December, 2011 (11:01)

    Robyn:
    VERY clever!

    No I wasn’t testing I.Q.’s…..we know all contributors to this Blog sit well below the 98th percentile. Except for one woman who claims MENSA membership.

    You are now perched atop two lists on this Blog. One as poet extraordinaire and one other one that I can’t quite recollect?

  70. Robyn - 18, December, 2011 (10:24)

    Oh dear, this is getting too hard Sue. Are you testing our IQ's?

    Will "hurtle" do for "purple"? Will "porridge " do for " orange"?

    I ate my porridge
    and then my orange
    Then off I did hurtle
    to get dressed in purple.
    I brushed my teeth oneth
    for the entire month
    Then counted my silver
    to buy a new chilver.

  71. Sue Do-Nim - 18, December, 2011 (9:19)

    Robyn;

    Good try!

    Kay K:

    No, not a subtle joke..although I have been accused of being subtle…as subtle as a meat axe!

    Purple and Orange are words that I understood had no rhymes (try and think of some without Googling) but I hadn’t realised that Silver and Month had ,supposedly, no rhymes either.

  72. Robyn - 18, December, 2011 (7:57)

    How's this?

    On the hundred and oneth month
    I paid silver for my chilver.

    This is the silly month!

    Where is our blog poet Budgie?

  73. Kay Kelly - 18, December, 2011 (7:04)

    Sue Do-Nim

    Perhaps I have missed some subtle joke!

    But to be quite literal, and to answer your question, I Googled 'words with no rhymes' and found it was very interesting! The only word to rhyme with 'month' is 'oneth' as in 'a hundred-and-oneth' - mind you, any sane person would say 'one hundred-and-first'! As for 'silver', the only word given is 'chilver' meaning a female lamb. Good luck weaving those into a poem!

  74. Sue Do-Nim - 18, December, 2011 (5:23)

    I once tried to write some poetry.

    Had to give it away...I couldn't find anything to rhyme with SILVER or MONTH ??

    Any suggestions.

  75. Robyn - 17, December, 2011 (22:05)

    Kay,

    You didn't hit a raw nerve. I was just up on my soap box over something I consider important.

  76. margaret chaldecott - 17, December, 2011 (21:42)

    I was SCAMMED - what seemed to ge a genuine advertisement "Lifestyle Paving & Landscaping" appeared in my letterbox a while ago.
    'John;' quoted $5,000 to renovate my driveway; he reduced this to $1,800 if I would put an advertising poster at my fence.
    This reduction should have warned me.
    He would not accept credit card payment, wanted cash, which I got by 2 trips to the bank.
    His team did some 'cosmetic' but unnecesary work and all told I paid $4,000 - almost the first price!

  77. Lorikeet - 17, December, 2011 (18:56)

    I think it is important not to use electronic devices of any kind for long periods of time, because the various forms of radiation they emit can have negative effects on the central nervous system and also weaken the eyes.

  78. Kay Kelly - 17, December, 2011 (18:34)

    Robyn

    Just experienced that feeling of 'anger' when I had to break my comments to John into 3 separate blocks!!! Now, I am trying to "be as if (I) had died" and be very calm!!!

  79. Kay Kelly - 17, December, 2011 (18:30)

    John (cont)

    I check the 'Daily Deal' every morning - some excellent deals! I also have an email sent to me (free) every day telling me about the latest 'Free' Kindle books. Most books I have are either free or very cheap (99 cents or $1.99). You can have up to 6 Kindles on one Amazon account. Each Kindle has ALL the books you have purchased. I have found Amazon a completely reliable seller.

  80. Kay Kelly - 17, December, 2011 (18:29)

    John (cont.)

    Recently I saw a smaller version was just being released, and I thought it would be a better, 'handbag' size. You see, I never leave home to go shopping etc without my beloved Kindle! I enjoy a cup of coffee so much more if I can read. Then, my husband appropriated my original Kindle, and he too is now 'hooked'. So now I have to carry 2 Kindles whenever I leave home! So much for my plan to reduce the space taken in my handbag by my Kindle!

  81. Kay Kelly - 17, December, 2011 (18:27)

    John

    I am having a love affair with my Kindles!!!

    I was one of those people who pooh-poohed the very idea of electronic books - "I just like real books" etc. Then I was coming home from a medical appointment one day on the train, and spied a lady sitting opposite me reading this 'thing'. I asked her what it was. She showed me her Kindle and explained how it worked, how to get the books etc. So as soon as I got home, I went on the web and ordered one from Amazon (the 'original' Kindle, now called the Kindle Keyboard - WiFi and 3G).

  82. Lynn - 17, December, 2011 (17:05)

    Best - Holidays with 3 year old grand daughters & mum & dad.
    Worst - Sudden loss of a friend

  83. Kay Kelly - 17, December, 2011 (16:50)

    Robyn (cont.)

    As for relationships - and that is what this poem is mainly referring to - I rarely feel anger, and if I do, I think before I speak. Some hurts are impossible to heal. A little restraint goes a long way. So does taking the time to see the other person's point of view.

    So I interpret that line as a plea not to react rashly in anger. So I don't have a problem with it.

  84. Kay Kelly - 17, December, 2011 (16:49)

    Robyn

    I'm sorry I hit such a raw nerve. I happen to be an atheist - always have been! So although the quote was from Islam, I myself have never felt at all restrained by religion of any type. But I have seen so much damage done by anger, especially impulsive anger, that I am very mindful of this. I often get angry at 'things' - like some crazy political decision - and I act on my anger by writing to say, Tony Abbott, Julia Gillard etc, and expressing my point of view! Waste of time probably, but it releases the anger in me!

  85. Robyn - 17, December, 2011 (15:57)

    Gee I didn't express that very well! I don't mean anger causes much unhappiness etc, I mean the view that anger is not OK causes everything to get screwed up for people.

  86. Robyn - 17, December, 2011 (15:52)

    John,

    Yes, it is control. In effect, we are taught to deny a part of our own spirit. Religion wrongs us with lack of wisdom in this respect. The teaching that anger is a negative emotion and should be subjugated has filtered down through the ages to become a most common view in society and it causes much unhappiness, torment, twistedness and disempowerment in my view. I actually think it is the driver of much negative behaviour toward self and/or others. We need to honour our emotions and listen to them, and then decide how to act on them constructively, in order to know and lead ourselves well.

  87. John O'Grady - 17, December, 2011 (14:45)

    Robyn, your take on anger, its expression and the church's (pretty much any church) controlling attitude toward management is absolutely first class. That is the stuff with which we grew up and I am sure that there are many, many people who are still burning up inside, having carried their aggro for far too long. Anger is enormously energising and it certainly can be used wisely and productively.

  88. Robyn - 17, December, 2011 (14:37)

    Your poem is very beautiful but I don't like that line and those are my reasons why. I also don't like the way "anger" and "fury" are stated together as though they are the same thing. They are in a way but the word "anger" covers all extremes of the emotion, whereas "fury" describes only the furthest extreme.

  89. Robyn - 17, December, 2011 (14:33)

    continued:

    "In anger and fury, be as if you had died"

    Fury as a feeling could be considered to be an intense emotional sensation of anger. Generally we would only feel such intensity when we feel very wronged in some way. Fury acted out is behaviour (action).

    There are so many different extremes of anger (as emotion) from minor annoyance or irritation to fury, rage etc. However, with all of them, we have the same choice to express either constructively or destructively. Suppression is destructive. Religion teaches suppression.

  90. Robyn - 17, December, 2011 (14:21)

    I think it is important to validate all of our emotions because they are our guides that lead us to question what we need. Unfortunately most religions (probably all religions) don't do that important delineating between feeling and behaviour. They just condemn anger per se as a "bad" emotion and say we shouldn't feel it.

  91. Robyn - 17, December, 2011 (14:14)

    Kay,

    Re your question today at 11:07.

    I think anger is one of our healthy human emotions that arises when something feels wrong for us. It provides us with the energy to fight to make right what feels wrong. The way we do that fighting, or in other words, the way we express our anger is not the emotion, it is behaviour. We have choice over behaviour and therefore we have control. We can choose whether to express our anger in destructive or constructive ways. When people don't delineate between emotion (feeling) and expression of emotion (behaviour) they get into all sorts of knots trying to suppress and they end up exploding or being passive aggressive etc. (to continue)

  92. John O'Grady - 17, December, 2011 (13:43)

    Oh, Kay ... the damned kindle. I gave myself one (quite unselfishly, I thought!) for Christmas and the setup has to rank well into the worst events of my year - what frustration. One really has to not only read the directions but do so carefully! I am getting there and a bit more patience would probably be a big help. I am supposed to be at work and have been fiddling with the rotten thing for the last two hours!
    I haven't had anything too bad happen to or for me this year and there has been plenty of good stuff. I really like my work, I have been a real estate agent for about 45 years and utterly enjoy the people interraction. I am also a Lifeline telephone counsellor and there have been some wonderful moments there. May 2012 be good and productive.

  93. Kay Kelly - 17, December, 2011 (11:20)

    For anyone out there who fancies a trip on The Indian Pacific from Sydney to Perth through Adelaide, Great Southern Rail currently has a 'two for the price of one offer'. You have to book by 31 December for travel between 1 January to 29 February.

    For those with a CSHC, pension or other concession, the cost for 2 people would be $1464 from Sydney to Perth or vice versa - all meals included - Gold Class - 3 nights on the train. Without a concession, it is $2092. Of course you have to get yourself to Perth or Sydney and back. You can start or finish in Adelaide too - much cheaper.

    We did this very same trip last year in January and absolutely loved it - Sydney to Perth. Extremely relaxing!!! We then had a look around Perth and SW WA and subsequently flew home to Brisbane. Highly recommended. Take a novel or your Kindle.

  94. Lorikeet - 17, December, 2011 (11:14)

    Yes, excellent sentiments, but I foresee a very steep ascent up Mt Everest for Kay in 2012.

  95. Kay Kelly - 17, December, 2011 (11:07)

    Robyn

    You reserve the right to 'get your paddy up'?

    I still like to think of this little poem in my relationships with others.

    And, Jeff, I loved your poem. It's a Robert Browning poem, I believe. is that correct?

  96. Robyn - 17, December, 2011 (10:13)

    Obviously meant poem, not pem!

  97. Robyn - 17, December, 2011 (10:10)

    Jeff,

    A beautiful pem. Thank you. As sure as there is no hot without cold, no day without night, there is no joy without sorrow. Everything is defined by its opposite.

    Kay, also enjoyed yours, thanks. Have different views on anger though, so don't relate to that bit.

  98. Kay Kelly - 17, December, 2011 (9:35)

    Jeff

    Now you've got me getting all poetic! I noticed this little thought on a web site about Islam (I am not a Muslim). I quite liked it - I think it is something to strive for in our relationships with others:

    "In generosity and helping others, be like a river
    In compassion and grace, be like the sun
    In concealing other’s faults, be like the night
    In anger and fury, be as if you have died
    In modesty and humility, be like the earth
    In tolerance, be like the sea
    And either appear as you are, or be as you appear

    Received from oral tradition of Rumi, paraphrased by Kabir Helminski."

    Something to strive for in 2012 and beyond!

  99. Lorikeet - 17, December, 2011 (8:54)

    A lot of Leftist stuff is aired on ABC television. There are plenty of shows pushing the Pagan Climate Change religion (also taught in our schools), with an emphasis on creating Fear and Guilt in the general populace.

    All of the panellists on ABC24 were probably government minions pretending they don't support global takeover by corporate neo-communists (bankers).

    There are moves afoot to tax superannuation at a higher rate, now that banks have had plenty of time to skin wealthy people of their life's savings by providing an excellent tax dodge, while at the same time depriving government of much needed tax revenue. They must have a very clever person batting for their team.

    A measured u-turn could turn the tables on bankers and other greedy skulduggerous mongrels, and still provide a reasonable standard of living for senior citizens, but we need to start the process immediately.

  100. Kay Kelly - 17, December, 2011 (8:24)

    Just watching Channel 24. The discussion was about economic forecasts. They had 5 'experts' from various sectors - accounting firms, banks, academia etc. They gave predictions across 4 topics (for Australia) for 2011 - the markets, exchange rate, interest rates and unemployment.

    The result? All 20 predictions were wrong! In general, all predictions were too optimistic. 2011 was a very bad year indeed. Many disasters - floods, cyclone, tsunami etc. And of course, Europe, and to a lesser extent, the USA.

    This time they are predicting that 2012 won't be quite as volatile as 2011. I hope they are right this time!

  101. Jeff - 17, December, 2011 (6:15)

    I walked a mile with Pleasure...
    She chattered all the way...
    But little did I learn from her...
    For all she had to say...
    I walked a mile with Sorrow...
    And ne'er a word said she...
    But oh...the things I learned from her...
    When Sorrow woaled with me...

    Joy and Sorrow are two sides of the same coin. It seems as though you can't have one without the other. It's sad that the human race has to "wait" till it reaches crisis point before it responds but the "good" news though is that there are plenty of good people out there whose lives are not "always" determined by self interest.

  102. Lorikeet - 16, December, 2011 (20:28)

    When 2,000,000 Australians are living below the poverty line (around 10%), alarm bells should be ringing.

    While many of us care very deeply about the peoples of other nations and wish to be charitable towards them, charity must begin at home.

    The government needs to do a u-turn on many of its policies to get our own nation back on track.

    A Tax on Air will only impoverish more Australians, deliver greater pollution to the third world, make our dole queues increasingly longer, and place further strain on the welfare budget.

    Then older Australians will end up bearing the brunt of budget cuts.

    Old Woman of the North has pinpointed very well the top contender for both "best" and "worst" for 2011.

  103. Peter Koens - 16, December, 2011 (19:27)

    More than 950 million people are living on an income of less than $1.00 per day. And Australians are bickering and moaning about financial crisis and its effect on lifestyle in retirement. It all seems a bit of a joke.
    Highlight of the year is the ongoing “End Polio Now” program.
    Low points are the carbon tax and the mining tax, neither of which go far to make any impact on the urgently needed reforms to guarantee a liveable planet for the children of the world.

  104. Old woman of the north - 16, December, 2011 (17:55)

    Worst was the nonsense proclaimed by the ABC and many politicians about 'climate change' from people who are not scientists in the field, like Tim Flannery, while they ignore true scientists like Dr Edwards.

    The best was how sensibly and well people dealt with the disasters that hit many this year - their self-reliance, good humour and the help given by volunteers.

  105. Heather C-D - 16, December, 2011 (17:04)

    My worst pales into insignificance compared to the loss or potential loss of loved ones. I hope all goes well for those who are suffering.

    My best is - I'm still alive and reasonably well and this year my husband and I travelled to Antarctica and around Sth America, an amazzing experience.

    Best wishes to all for a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

  106. Carol Leoanrd - 16, December, 2011 (16:32)

    Highlights of the year a great holiday with family in the UK in July. Spending time with my brother and his wife in Ruthin. Then a family wedding in Hereford.
    The low point of the year my only sibling brother collapsed and died in November just before he was to have a hip replacement op. I had to go back to the UK for a couple of weeks to help with arrangements. Then I just found out the same thing has happened to my friends brother in Dubai now she has to back to the UK. Roll on 2012.

  107. Philip Long - 16, December, 2011 (16:12)

    lowpoint, having to clean up and restore my flooded rental property, built to Council's inadequate flood requirements, knowing it was caused by the public servants operating the dam (when even a 7 yo could have predicted what would happen), seeing Anna Bligh's popularity rise on the back of it even though it was ultimately her responsibility! And to rub salt into the wound, being ineligible for ANY government relief as it was a rental property even though my income is dependent on it.
    highpoint? the unbelievable volunteers who gave so much help to me, and the thousands of others who also needed help - thank you, again.

  108. Lorikeet - 16, December, 2011 (15:54)

    HIGHLIGHTS OF THE YEAR:

    Watching my Canberran grandchildren having fun at the beach (don't see them often).

    Having all of my sons attend their grandmother's funeral, despite the tyranny of distance.

    Finally being able to attend NSA branch meetings and getting to know a lot of nice people.

    Senator John Madigan being elected to parliament and doing his best to resurrect manufacturing industries ... also speaking out against toxic levels of taxation, especially Carbon Tax and Emissions Trading Scheme.

    Receiving a massive box of goodies for Christmas.

    Being told at the dance studio Christmas party that I could easily out-dance highly trained, younger competitors, when I am only a social dancer and have some health issues.

  109. Lorikeet - 16, December, 2011 (15:43)

    LOWLIGHTS OF THE YEAR:

    Mother dying; friend dying of bone cancer at age 49.

    Queensland flood disaster (lifted number of homeless and destitute in SE Qld from 70,000 to 100,000). Similar overseas catastrophes.

    Passage of Carbon Tax through parliament.

  110. Lorikeet - 16, December, 2011 (15:36)

    I agree completely with Rob Spencer. His comment is worth reading again.

    With Christmas almost upon us, let us all spare a thought for those among family, friends and neighbours who will be spending the day alone, and perhaps invite them to our own gatherings.

    If you can spare a supermarket item or two for the homeless and destitute, please make use of the Foodbank food cages, or leave a gift for collection under a Wishing Tree. I'm sure even the smallest items will be greatly appreciated.

    I'm sure that any Christmas gifts you receive, but cannot use, will be gratefully accepted at your local NSA branch's Bring and Buy to reduce the cost of future outings, maintaining piano etc.

  111. Helen - 16, December, 2011 (13:44)

    (2)Sympathies to all out there not well & with failing parents & spouses. We aren't taught about this when we are children but left to find out.

    Our house is a blaze of fairy lights, Christmas tree, inflated Santa & decorated windows. Even the trees in the garden have sola powered lights. Getting ready for next week's onslaught at Nan & Opa's place.

    My wish for you all is for a safe & beautiful Xmas with those you love. If you are on your own, give your love to someone else on their own. It works wonderfully well every time.

    Also another plus was finding my friends on this blog. It's been fun & not a "wrinkle" in site. You are ALL beautiful I think & v young.

    It proves that inside looking out, we never change - Better see to Miss 2 - Cheers...xx

  112. Helen - 16, December, 2011 (13:43)

    Many "highs" this year. visiting Rels in Germany in April after a wonderful cruise from Budapest - Amsterdam was prob the most noteable.

    Being with family & the grandchildren whom I love & who wear me out (two with me at the moment) The 2yr old is about to wake up! Miss 13 is still here as well & young Mr 7 is seeing Marry Poppins this arvo with Mum & Dad.

    The worst - A few things, none worth going into here. I look at the worst as "a work in progress" to turn around Cont-

  113. Jim - 16, December, 2011 (13:07)

    Best times : 90% of the year; good company, plenty of outdoor exercise. Worst: seeing Christchurch after two severe earthquakes - a wrecked city in complete lockdown - the personal stories keep on coming, from a city I thought I knew well. Life is fragile!

  114. vivfuller - 16, December, 2011 (12:08)

    Worst, the floods in NSW and Qld. So much loss.

    The best, the birth of my first grandchild in June. He is absolutely amazing and this will be a very special Christmas.

    Blessings for Merry Christmas and a happy 2012 to all.

  115. Sue Do-Nim - 16, December, 2011 (11:01)

    Judy Petrie:
    I hope your health and that of your husband improves.

    It’s hard to focus on anything else if your health is on the decline but hopefully you’ll be able to enjoy your family and especially your grandchildren at Christmas.

    Try and keep your chin up and Merry Christmas.

  116. R.Ellis - 16, December, 2011 (10:44)

    Worst time: being in Taiwan when the deadly tsunami hit north Japan - for a while we did not know if it would affect us.

    Best times: seeing my rels in Cornwall; climbing to the top of Sydney Harbour Bridge.

  117. judy petrie - 16, December, 2011 (10:14)

    Well the best this year is our new grandson makes five in all and that all the other 4 are well and moving onto the next phase of there schooling.

    The worst is coping with babysitting working and caring for sick husband who is lucky to be with us as he had a masive heart attack three years ago and problems which have escalated since. I'm afraid after sorting out super, morgage and other things that all of a sudden you start thinking and it's actually to late. We have got there with not much left and very causious on what we spend so no holidays and very little else, but now my health is failing and all getting too hard and Centerlink so hard to work with depending on who know's what there talking about you do tend to give up very easily with it all.

  118. Rob Spencer - 16, December, 2011 (8:54)

    The worst of the year is the financial disaster facing all retired people, who can argue none of it was of their doing, and have no chance to redeem losses. Allied to this is the increasing indifference of politicians and other leaders, Federal and State, to the plight of pensioners, self-funded retirees and the poorer citizens of Australia.
    Best of the year for me, personally, is volunteering in various aged organisations, where you meet the nicest people.

  119. Ian - 16, December, 2011 (8:19)

    Best thing this year was winning medals at a competition in Queensland in my favourite sport. The worst was being taken to hospital while visiting my grandchildren when my back went into spasm. Later in July being diagnosed with prostate cancer, having it removed and being grounded for three months. Still recovering. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all.

  120. Elizabeth - 16, December, 2011 (7:49)

    The worst: turning 60; my computer keeps crashing!
    The best: turning 60; my computer will be repaired/replaced under warrenty; travelling to fabulous Russia; flying over Lake Eyre and gasping at the amasing site of flood waters reaching the South Australian desert; keeping reasonabley good health this year;enjoying the voluntary work I do; enjoying a little bit of paid work; three new babies in the family;judging the best dressed dog at the local obedience school formal Christmas party! Merry Christmas to everyone!

  121. Johanne Forbes - 16, December, 2011 (7:03)

    What a year, my mother contracted encephalitis and is now in a nursing home, on a feeding tube and does not recognise use. My husband had parotid cancer removed from his head in 2006 and was told at the start of the year that it has spread throughout his body. Cannot thank Peter MacCallum enough for all that they are doing to keep him comfortable.

  122. Tina F - 16, December, 2011 (1:22)

    The saddest time was when my Mum passed away. She lived a full and hard life and the end was not one that she deserved. May she now be at peace. God bless her.
    The happier times in 2011 were attending local stage plays and family get-togethers on special occasions.
    Merry Christmas and Happy New Year all. Keep safe and enjoy family around you. Its a precous time of the year for family and friends.

  123. Marie Cameron - 15, December, 2011 (21:48)

    My thoughts are with all who, like Kay's husband, have battled illness during this year.

    My worst times were the Queensland floods which really affected the area where I live, and then (a month later), a large tree, its roots loosened by all the water, tried to fall on the house. Fortunately a rain water tank got in the way but it was quite damaged. There followed 7 months of horrible wrangling with the insurance company and its contractors. Grrr!! Finally, it's all settled. Also, have just heard that my favourite nephew's marriage has broken up rather traumatically - this casts a pall over Christmas for the family.

    The best times? Enjoying my wide range of U3A classes, and the plays and concerts that I attend regularly, and the friends I share these activities with. All this kept me sane through the stress!

  124. Robyn - 15, December, 2011 (19:03)

    Have been thinking while chilling out and can't really come up with anything too bad. That feels good in itself! The year did start with a bit of a scare when we discovered white ants in our house. Fortunately though the damage was contained and cost less than $10 ,000.

    The good, "GREAT" in my year was the presence of my little grand-daughters, aged 5 and 18 months, who lived in the UK until last December. They are only here for 1 more year before returning to the UK for good, so I am making the most of it. Also wonderful to have my daughter and son-in-law living nearby. My other daughter also lives close and my son and his partner moved from Sydney to an area 2 hours away, so lots of family interaction this year. That means more to me than anything.

  125. Robyn - 15, December, 2011 (18:22)

    Kay,

    Sorry I didn't respond to your last comments on last strand. Have been out all afternoon and just got home. Might get back to that discussion later. Meanwhile, this looks like a great topic.

    Glad your husband is out of the woods. That is scary stuff and a poignant beginning to this strand. Indeed it does invite perspective!

    Will write my own comment later after some thought. Right now just need to chill out for a bit!

  126. Bob B - 15, December, 2011 (16:23)

    Kay

    Hope all goes as you wish. I have had a similar problem years ago but different place - bowel. It too had not spread and the radiation treatment killed it - after the bowel resection the surgen said 'What cancer' was the comment on the biopsy report.

    I wish you both well. I am a firm believer in the power of positive thought.

  127. Kay Kelly - 15, December, 2011 (16:11)

    Seems like this is a very personal blog topic!

    Anyway, my worst time in 2011 came after my husband received the results of his prostate biopsy and was told it contained some samples of a very aggressive form of cancer.

    The best time was after subsequent scans to be told that the cancer was contained within the prostate and had not spread elsewhere in the body (as far as could be determined anyway).

    Since then he has had HDR brachytherapy, followed by 5 weeks' of radiation therapy. All has gone very well. He should be free of cancer now.

    So they are the highlights of 2011! Makes you realise what is really important!

In this section

 

Brightlabs Web Design