tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39663165292916940992024-03-16T07:09:15.545+00:00The Rambling CurlPersonal stories, rants and random posts!mrsmanicshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894116750061022896noreply@blogger.comBlogger525125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3966316529291694099.post-67919493347026783942022-03-30T17:18:00.000+01:002022-03-30T17:18:56.383+01:00Manic Street Preachers - Album By Album: A Review<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEPghyosGhpZEveojElqF3-ps-jJIaoB0TVO2Q2cQPT35i5oigr7ii4aztZBVsKPZW9PxMy_m0XMrWZnuuN6JSH1PXQ6GtcDmlXq_6ivacw98PQfR5QI3s23UYdLhxm6SCDnwGVZVFeiBU7I15MRJ_zvrFrzTDJkbizb1BH4yOMfXQ6VF5tvduGa_3/s342/ManicsGif1.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="192" data-original-width="342" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEPghyosGhpZEveojElqF3-ps-jJIaoB0TVO2Q2cQPT35i5oigr7ii4aztZBVsKPZW9PxMy_m0XMrWZnuuN6JSH1PXQ6GtcDmlXq_6ivacw98PQfR5QI3s23UYdLhxm6SCDnwGVZVFeiBU7I15MRJ_zvrFrzTDJkbizb1BH4yOMfXQ6VF5tvduGa_3/w373-h210/ManicsGif1.webp" width="373" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;">It would be no exaggeration to say that the Manic Street Preachers changed my life.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>From galvanising my leftie views to encouraging me to seek out art and literature, they came crashing into my world when I was a hormonal teen and they still have permanent residence in my affections now that I’m a hormonal adult.</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><p class="p2" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;">As a result, when I heard that Marc Burrows was releasing a book, charting the band’s career - with fourteen writers producing essays on each of the Manics’ albums - I was very much <i>in</i>.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>I will consume basically anything featuring “my boys” and my plan was to write this review several months ago. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;">Well, we all know what they say about the best laid plans, right…?!</span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwm1HfacGULNv_X68KoY_jUtsCZuWJ2j0DalPOYvbUTxGYxlYQwruiJqi6kSwnLH2xFh13R7aDtvUuRpLXB9br3zmQfOD5n25PgX0MJfZd-wZNS4mGhDs9tLDpLqNowXYuCi83QqdJ3dXG_IiFd_pphsypVpNv5OtF8VDA50o85ReGlafUoMKzrEHP/s200/ManicsGif2.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwm1HfacGULNv_X68KoY_jUtsCZuWJ2j0DalPOYvbUTxGYxlYQwruiJqi6kSwnLH2xFh13R7aDtvUuRpLXB9br3zmQfOD5n25PgX0MJfZd-wZNS4mGhDs9tLDpLqNowXYuCi83QqdJ3dXG_IiFd_pphsypVpNv5OtF8VDA50o85ReGlafUoMKzrEHP/s1600/ManicsGif2.gif" width="200" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;">Whilst books about the Manics are not an entirely new phenomenon, this one manages to tread old ground in a new, intriguing way.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It features a timeline between the band’s albums, tracking what the Manics were doing in the run up to - and following - each release.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>For someone like me, this is utterly fascinating; I may like to tell myself that I have an almost encyclopaedic knowledge of my favourite band, but reading about their career in this format brings everything into even sharper focus and I find myself poring over every detail. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p2" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 14px;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;">We all know the story by now - four friends, bonded by a fierce intellect, a mutual love of music and pop culture and a desperate sense of claustrophobia in their small hometown in South Wales - formed a band and took on a post-punk glam aesthetic that made them stand out like sore thumbs against a backdrop of early 90’s grunge.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>That fascinating combination of political fury, perfectly applied eyeliner, shirts spray-painted with slogans designed to speak to a similarly disenfranchised youth, plus the kind of guitar riffs that would make Slash weep, resulted in a cult following and - far from the “sell 16 million copies of our debut album and split up in a blaze of glory” hype - an illustriously long and celebrated music career.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>But the timeline between the release of each album, slotted neatly before and after beautifully written, often poignant essays by fans of the band, tells that story in a way that feels somehow more tangible and, at notable points in the Manics’ history, incredibly raw. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-converted-space"></span></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;">The essays that punctuate the release of each album throughout the book are a glorious snapshot of what the Manics mean to their fans, as well as provocative pieces that bring each record to life in such a visceral manner that you can almost hear the songs playing as you read.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Every single one is written with such passion and enthusiasm that by the end of each essay, not only did I want to luxuriate in whichever album I’d just been reading about - yes, including the ones I’d have lower down in my personal ranking - but I was filled with a deep desire to buy each writer a drink and sit with them, swapping gig anecdotes and chatting long into the night about this band that unites us, even when they manage to divide opinion.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>In fact, I frequently found myself nodding frantically or chuckling softly as I read sentence after sentence that resonated perfectly with my own experiences of being a fan.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Call it tribalism if you will, but we are woven together by such delicate threads - having felt like an outsider as a teen, perhaps, or having had our feelings of anxiety and depression so eloquently expressed through lyrics - that reading some of the stories presented in the book could easily equate to reading an old diary entry.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>“These,” I thought on several occasions as I made my way through the essays, “are my people.”</span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXEpACMjY-oOZK8c8xo30PhXLWS79f9DcO2mZLzp54iTf7yGirZs8xoyN9DHdQQ_UN7qk7c0NHtvtr-qZOO4bkj50Zk0pwCY49wD_8ia1rJUcrSQDVACg9-uOPL7XvGb6S8PrGhsPWYh-ZK1KFhzzUFqtGLCLtBXMBsW2AfVu9eIuR9JfMWddfWvJI/s640/ManicsGif3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXEpACMjY-oOZK8c8xo30PhXLWS79f9DcO2mZLzp54iTf7yGirZs8xoyN9DHdQQ_UN7qk7c0NHtvtr-qZOO4bkj50Zk0pwCY49wD_8ia1rJUcrSQDVACg9-uOPL7XvGb6S8PrGhsPWYh-ZK1KFhzzUFqtGLCLtBXMBsW2AfVu9eIuR9JfMWddfWvJI/s320/ManicsGif3.jpeg" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;">And this is my PLACE.</span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;">Anything written about the Manics is usually done so with several heaped spoonfuls of melodrama.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Theirs is a story of genuine triumph in the wake of tragedy and it’s easy to fall into the usual heartstring-tugging tropes as a result.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>What is wonderful about this book is that by using a timeline of events - literally a day-by-day account of where the band were in the world and what they were doing - we are simply presented with the facts.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>There is no need for flowery prose.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The actual truth of what the band went through in the loss of co-lyricist and mouth-piece Richey Edwards is laid bare in all its starkness and is actually all the more powerful for it.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>The emotional language comes from the essays breaking up the timeline, when opinions step into the spotlight alongside the facts and deeply personal anecdotes are shared.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>This very plain split between “this is precisely what happened” and “here’s how I feel about it as a fan” makes this book in many ways all the more moving than others on the subject.</span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT5M1nJ9893WOMo7JbYTvDo3ndH3E0kcFaUfbuHz0LKDAOwCa2P6NvO2bqQltNDnX-yvyXRYpRBeeNtsbH5EQHwwpf4wu3sQxmMon2uMVZZcTpS9LGeXRU_Jxe50wTWCyB7BX2DZ_U9uU_T2UbV7yRNpew_sbMjIhn31BDTeA7GATGPoE9g2TStUH4/s500/Richey.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"><img border="0" data-original-height="358" data-original-width="500" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT5M1nJ9893WOMo7JbYTvDo3ndH3E0kcFaUfbuHz0LKDAOwCa2P6NvO2bqQltNDnX-yvyXRYpRBeeNtsbH5EQHwwpf4wu3sQxmMon2uMVZZcTpS9LGeXRU_Jxe50wTWCyB7BX2DZ_U9uU_T2UbV7yRNpew_sbMjIhn31BDTeA7GATGPoE9g2TStUH4/s320/Richey.webp" width="320" /></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;">The Manics are a band who’ve dipped their toes into various musical styles and whose career can be easily split into neat “stages.”<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Similarly, the essays within the book run the gamut from fond recollections of youth, to searingly honest descriptions of individual traumas.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>As is so often the case with anything to do with this particular band, you come away from reading the book with a heightened awareness of the importance of the Manic Street Preachers, not only as a cultural, musical touchstone, but as a powerful symbol to anyone who has ever felt alienated or despairing.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>That the band released some of their most anthemic, dare I say <i>joyous</i><span class="s1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">-sounding songs after the darkest period in their professional and personal lives is testament to their brilliance.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>Anyone who says the Manics are “only for depressed people” have never known the thrill of singing yourself hoarse to <i>A Design For Life</i> whilst the confetti cannons go off all around you. <span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></span></span></p><p class="p2" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 12px; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p><p class="p3" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;">The Manics always described themselves as a band that liked to contradict themselves and history certainly shows that to be true in the most wonderful way.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>In a sense, this book and its journey through the band’s career, punctuated with fascinating stories and what can only be called love letters to each individual album, highlights their uncanny ability to adapt and change, whilst remaining stubbornly the same at heart.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>It’s one of the reasons we love them.<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>And it’s one of the many reasons you should read this book.</span></p></div><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"><br /></span><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p></div><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"><br /></span><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><p class="p1" style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet; font-size: large;"><br /></span></p></div><p><br /></p>mrsmanicshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894116750061022896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3966316529291694099.post-1541535282221932302020-05-09T15:44:00.000+01:002020-05-09T15:44:23.297+01:00Coronavirus And Mental Health<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSH_CthpQpoAYe-JZ4WPZm6trJ7aqwHi3FwEW_bmxO5twkRIORjS2IRItV_s4bUYbm7czFdmMMVs2A07U4YlPezTRaztRMw64sd766uRu_PVm5bU4BLbyNMZTqnW9Ez1r94yTCtJYTkB4/s1600/sad1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="244" data-original-width="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSH_CthpQpoAYe-JZ4WPZm6trJ7aqwHi3FwEW_bmxO5twkRIORjS2IRItV_s4bUYbm7czFdmMMVs2A07U4YlPezTRaztRMw64sd766uRu_PVm5bU4BLbyNMZTqnW9Ez1r94yTCtJYTkB4/s1600/sad1.gif" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There are things you expect to happen in any given year. For example, people will inexplicably become obsessed with <i>Love Island</i>, we Brits will moan about the rain until the sun comes and then we'll freak out about being too hot, and the DFS sale will continue to be a never-ending feature of our daily lives. But what we didn't expect was a global pandemic that would kill hundreds of thousands of innocent people across the world and cause schools, pubs and restaurants to close, whilst we stay at home and obsessively wash our hands until the skin cracks.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And once it became obvious that that was indeed what 2020 was going to bring, what <i>I</i> didn't expect was to receive a text (followed by a letter) from the government, telling me that I was on their "extremely vulnerable" list and that I was under instructions to "shield" for twelve weeks - i.e. not go anywhere or have anyone come to see me. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I didn't expect to receive a further government message, warning me to pack a hospital bag, "just in case."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I didn't expect supermarkets to offer me next-day delivery, after I'd registered my "vulnerable status" online (although I was hugely grateful, given that I live with my parents and they've both been largely shielding with me).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What I <i>did</i> expect, once all of this had begun to happen, was that it would have one hell of a knock-on effect on my mental health.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNCBwCZ2wq_tcYU_4p8jL3IjbpMTyrrnIMmVp3twHPB3c1ykzrMKpqqlyxXlP3rIsBL8P1hx36eu1J4BLO10hn-8rhg1UB8RICMPpn87sSTXsG5dSf5cuXxIJQX-BUmV-0k77WDeuQmdQ/s1600/sad2.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="245" data-original-width="400" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNCBwCZ2wq_tcYU_4p8jL3IjbpMTyrrnIMmVp3twHPB3c1ykzrMKpqqlyxXlP3rIsBL8P1hx36eu1J4BLO10hn-8rhg1UB8RICMPpn87sSTXsG5dSf5cuXxIJQX-BUmV-0k77WDeuQmdQ/s320/sad2.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ironically, I'm a fairly introverted person. I like my own company; I'm happy to watch something on TV curled up on my bed by myself, or spend a quiet evening with my nose in a book. I've never been a hugely loud person who feels the need to be centre of attention, nor have I ever had a huge social circle and a diary filled with parties to attend. I am the clichéd "you'll always find me in the kitchen at parties" type, anyway. Give me food and a drink and don't make me talk to anyone I don't know, please.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But I <i>am</i> still a people person. I'm just picky about who those people <i>are</i>. If you're someone who barely knows me and with whom I have to make awkward small-talk, then you might find it hard to imagine me as someone who loves being around people and who is happy to lead a conversation. But if you're someone close, you'll know that I thrive on being with the ones I care about. I love cuddles. I love planning fun days out. I love spending precious time together doing almost <i>nothing</i> and loving every second. And for the last seven weeks, that has all gone. It will remain gone for at least another five. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And I'm not handling that very well.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0qv29D6U3bWCJVSpm5Y7V8rVVnKrBZPkQom_v5LSb8YBu-tHNSFUm5zhzrWtUyrrj29-PmyC9L8S3FFpAk5Y6irGPJ5037hGbR4C7NqOQlwpcRm2BZcDThE6IPD-Ut_gNh089XDpWI6o/s1600/sad3.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="281" data-original-width="500" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0qv29D6U3bWCJVSpm5Y7V8rVVnKrBZPkQom_v5LSb8YBu-tHNSFUm5zhzrWtUyrrj29-PmyC9L8S3FFpAk5Y6irGPJ5037hGbR4C7NqOQlwpcRm2BZcDThE6IPD-Ut_gNh089XDpWI6o/s320/sad3.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A lot of things happen to you when you're someone who thrives on being with the ones you care about and you suddenly have that taken away. Firstly, you just feel sad. When I got that text from the government seven weeks ago, I cried. I cried at the thought of not seeing my best friend for three months. Not being able to hug her or sit beside her. Not being able to hang out together at her house or mine. Not going out for dinners or pub quizzes or any of the other little things that I value as being a precious part of my life. In the grand scheme of things, three months may seem like a tiny, trivial slither of time. But for me, it was a case of being told I couldn't see someone I usually saw at least twice a week, often more. That was a big adjustment to have to make.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Then I started thinking about other people, too. The friends I was forever saying "we should do this more often" to, when we met for cake or lunch. The ones I saw less frequently, but who I was sure I'd have been spending at least three or four afternoons out with over the course of a <i>normal</i> three month period.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I thought about my friends at chorus, who I'd normally be singing with every week. I thought of the catch-ups over a cuppa at the end of rehearsal and the giggles we all have when we get together.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Don't get me wrong; I know I'm very lucky not to live alone. I have my parents here as well as the dog, so I have company. Skype, Zoom and Facebook video messenger have all come in handy as ways of staying in touch with people, too. But, as a friend said yesterday, a video call can't replace a hug when you're really missing someone.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And whilst physical affection has always been something I knew I needed to give and receive, I've started to realise just how important other forms of non-verbal communication are to me, too. I've always said my best friend and I can communicate entire sentences without words. Just a particular look from her and I know exactly what she's saying. We can't do that so easily online. You can barely hold eye contact when talking via a video call, because you'd both have to be looking at the camera. And I never realised how much I cherish eye contact until now.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
With all of these thoughts and feelings to deal with, my number one urge is to go out for a walk to clear my head. And... Well, that's not really allowed.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8SKcpn9PsAlYsjhqNgAZmCOS9HgL1lv-kMwYtCnhTL2jEs1BGeJlx1NU5A2kN5SRFUYC_BUo1-aeJZwYgs9B806PGQuKGJlqNNB_SFKR0ATqYVwtqtt9394LUt2sT63WpHr9d8vF1Abw/s1600/sad4.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="480" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8SKcpn9PsAlYsjhqNgAZmCOS9HgL1lv-kMwYtCnhTL2jEs1BGeJlx1NU5A2kN5SRFUYC_BUo1-aeJZwYgs9B806PGQuKGJlqNNB_SFKR0ATqYVwtqtt9394LUt2sT63WpHr9d8vF1Abw/s320/sad4.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Again, this is where I know I'm lucky. I don't live in a flat or a house without any outdoor space and I feel terrible for those that do, who are having to shield. I know that I'm fortunate to have a garden that's big enough to walk laps of a few times before sheer boredom sets in. I also live in a pretty quiet road and have braved walking a few feet up and down it (always within sight of my house) twice a day when there's nobody around. The few times I've seen someone walking, I've legged it across the road or even gone straight back into the garden, so I'm not taking any chances. But stimulating it <i>isn't</i>. Walking endlessly up and down the road (not even the <i>whole</i> road, obviously) is not the most interesting path to tread. I've found myself desperately wanting to just say "to hell with this" and walk into town, but I know I can't. I reach a certain point, where I can still easily see my house (and reach it within 30 seconds - I really <i>don't </i>go far), then I know I have to fight the urge to carry on and instead turn around and walk back again. It's frustrating and repetitive, especially for someone who really does use a walk down by the river, or a stroll into town, as a well-practised method of dealing with any mental health issues I might be having. Feeling sad? Take the dog for a walk. Too many thoughts in my head? Walk into town have a mooch around the shops. To be stuck in a situation that is making me feel really sad and to <i>not</i> be able to go for a proper walk anywhere has left me struggling to find new ways to try to handle any mental health issues that crop up, not all of which are exactly healthy. I am, for example, currently obsessed with having a constant "project" to be working on, so that I'm not just thinking about how much I miss someone, or how bored I am of not being able to go anywhere. But productivity and depression aren't exactly happy bedfellows, so half the time, I'm forcing myself to script and film a video, or obsessively polish my bedroom furniture, when what I actually <i>want</i> to be doing is lying under the duvet, sobbing and eating chocolate until I feel sick. It's not like me to feel as though I'm almost forcing my feelings to one side all the time. I wear my heart on my sleeve, usually. But lately, I feel like every time I try to speak - or even <i>think</i> - about how I feel, the words just don't seem to come.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But sadness isn't the only emotion I've been struggling with. Feeling isolated is making me horribly needy and paranoid.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfPMXW_GN834-aD7G1tpcLz1go642fIo2MKSNmdIcJ3Snc94iYO0s7iZeOwOa1ZU163xHvBBIK5w55El5P2wP6Yh3NAeu2EZ6X1ZLdnlitp69oD9QfUO_o0MeAGv0A4gOYnEZF2VGc564/s1600/Screen+Shot+2020-05-09+at+14.40.12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="408" data-original-width="528" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfPMXW_GN834-aD7G1tpcLz1go642fIo2MKSNmdIcJ3Snc94iYO0s7iZeOwOa1ZU163xHvBBIK5w55El5P2wP6Yh3NAeu2EZ6X1ZLdnlitp69oD9QfUO_o0MeAGv0A4gOYnEZF2VGc564/s320/Screen+Shot+2020-05-09+at+14.40.12.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Like I said, I wear my heart on my sleeve. If you're special to me, you'll know about it, either because I will literally say "I love you," or because I show it in my actions. I've always been really good at reading body language and picking up on non-verbal cues from other people, who maybe don't wear their emotions as visibly as I do mine (I'm well aware I'm weird) and that's all I've really needed in return. Actions speak louder than words and all that. But with lack of contact, I don't have those cues to pick up on and I end up being tortured by my own brain. "They don't miss <i>you</i>, you know. They're probably glad they don't have to see you. Why would anyone be sad not to see <i>you</i>?!" I torment myself over and over, because I'm too bloody proud to say "hey, I know this is needy as hell, but you miss me, right?" Instead, I dwell and I convince myself nobody <i>does</i> and it sinks me further and further into a sadness I was already struggling to crawl out of.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I also find myself getting paranoid that absence is going to make the heart grow forgetful, rather than fonder. That when this is all over, I'll be chomping at the bit to see people and they'll have grown used to not having me and my various irritating habits to deal with, so will be rather reluctant to go back to the way things were.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Believe me, if you're reading this and thinking "ugh, what a needy cow," you aren't alone. I hate it about myself. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So, sadness, frustration and paranoia are order of the day, right now. But you know what else is? Anger.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiFDJYw_R1yqHKwee4PmYAgkeJWlMw2MfN4eCDE7L8J8fxeYHHlbdA0p1i7rvWY-9uRZbd7tMYXc5a-ZYjVRZt3HVW_Suk5GkGna21lv1Pg7O8LQMGILKKpkDJZT9YdpVvIPB-91v8bzg/s1600/sad6.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="278" data-original-width="500" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiFDJYw_R1yqHKwee4PmYAgkeJWlMw2MfN4eCDE7L8J8fxeYHHlbdA0p1i7rvWY-9uRZbd7tMYXc5a-ZYjVRZt3HVW_Suk5GkGna21lv1Pg7O8LQMGILKKpkDJZT9YdpVvIPB-91v8bzg/s320/sad6.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I don't just mean that "I'm mad that this is happening to me" type of anger. I mean anger at <i>other people</i>. Not at anyone I care about, but at the people casually breaking social distancing rules, because they fancy a drive to the seaside and it's only an hour or so away. At the folks inviting their families round for drinks in the garden, because the sun's out and surely their own family members <i>must</i> be safe to all pop over for the afternoon?! At the people writing "I had it and it was no worse than the flu, so end lockdown NOW, because it's only vulnerable people who are at risk" on their social media pages.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's <i>not</i> "only vulnerable people who are at risk," for a start. Several people have died, despite having no underlying health conditions at all. But even if it <i>was</i>, who do these people think constitute as "vulnerable" and why the hell do they think those vulnerable people's lives aren't important?! I'm only 37 years old. I have family and friends who care about me (<i>see</i>, logically I know this to be true, despite the horrific paranoia). I have a nephew due in a few months. My best friend and I are starting a business that I'm excited to get off the ground. I have places I want to visit when this is all over. Why am I okay, in the eyes of some people, to be seen as "collateral damage," simply because they're fed up of lockdown? How can people be so ignorant - so <i>selfish </i> - as to assume that they should have free reign to go wherever they like, with whomever they choose, purely because they don't think <i>they</i> would be adversely affected by this virus? How can they be so sure?! And what about the people who <i>would</i> be hugely affected? Are we on the vulnerable list supposed to remain indoors for several more months, cut off from those we love, letting our mental health fall further and further into decline, just so a few outwardly healthy people can go out early to try to prove some kind of point?!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I've spoken to people who also found themselves on the government's "vulnerable list" and they are of all ages and come from all walks of life. Some are <i>children</i>. So if I seem furiously angry when I see people writing this virus off as "something that only effects the vulnerable," as though the vulnerable don't bloody matter, it's because I AM. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If I can stand another month or more of going no further than a few feet up my road, only seeing the person I love most through a computer screen and dealing with constant paranoia and depression over the whole situation, then people can adhere to social distancing rules <i>properly</i>, rather than behaving as though they're somehow invincible and don't have to worry about spreading this thing to all and sundry. And they can sure as hell stop referring to people like me as though our lives don't matter, anyway.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I want to go out, just as much as you do. I want to hold people I love close and have dinners in restaurants, visit shops again and stop feeling as though my life is on pause. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And I will. And so can you. When it's safe. Not before.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5d8kA6cC3MKVzAaNnEG1Lna5zUDci6PojvLfoppT_L-ma9FTNPX50PNzE3h4MFFmK92zOqkgiMeLDg7g0NSW_0AChyDnJvRf8KV9W3h0E-M_TeLQMjYKEXtbbp1rYQwCE2WpSih77t98/s1600/sad7.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="276" data-original-width="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5d8kA6cC3MKVzAaNnEG1Lna5zUDci6PojvLfoppT_L-ma9FTNPX50PNzE3h4MFFmK92zOqkgiMeLDg7g0NSW_0AChyDnJvRf8KV9W3h0E-M_TeLQMjYKEXtbbp1rYQwCE2WpSih77t98/s1600/sad7.gif" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
That's not to say that I think things will all just casually go back to normal. I know that there are ways in which life will change, following this. Possibly forever.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I've always been a hugger, but physical affection is going to be reserved for those I'm super close to, now. I can't wait to put my arms around my best friend, but the rest of the world... Not so much. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I've realised my job isn't necessarily the healthiest for me to be in, given my medical conditions. That's something I'm going to have to think a lot about. I'll be throwing all my energy into getting our business off the ground, at the very least.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And there are so many little things I won't take for granted, anymore. Making plans for a trip out, somewhere. Holding eye contact across a table. Chorus rehearsals. A walk around the park. Little, everyday things that were just a part of my life I assumed would always be there, will now be cherished as they deserve to be.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In the meantime, I will keep going as best I can. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Stay safe.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
mrsmanicshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894116750061022896noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3966316529291694099.post-86427570356911022422019-05-30T16:27:00.001+01:002019-05-30T16:27:08.496+01:00No Outsiders: Why Equality Is a VITAL Thing To Teach Children<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJntf42YXsEXkh3Ghjm_38udu5hgdpZBaJLmrI_0PKXEVhyphenhyphenabS20HMcK0ZapZF9y9opp0Q_A82cEhaEN9qWiKNBMrRaUh2Pchs2UxEjbZyEjzYYWVzabJUGdHQ2UV5AcCwVTluZi9w1c/s1600/LGBT1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="294" data-original-width="466" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJntf42YXsEXkh3Ghjm_38udu5hgdpZBaJLmrI_0PKXEVhyphenhyphenabS20HMcK0ZapZF9y9opp0Q_A82cEhaEN9qWiKNBMrRaUh2Pchs2UxEjbZyEjzYYWVzabJUGdHQ2UV5AcCwVTluZi9w1c/s320/LGBT1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There are certain things we are taught at school: maths, spelling and for a lot of us here in the UK, how to play <i>London's Burning</i> on a recorder. Parents everywhere must be so <i>incredibly</i> grateful for that one...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And then there are the things we learn without realising: how to share and take turns, that it's okay to ask a question if you're not sure about something and, crucially, that we are all different, but <i>equally</i> deserving of respect.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It may come as a shock to those parents protesting the new "<a href="http://www.equalitiesprimary.com/" target="_blank">No Outsiders</a>" programme - which features books incorporating same-sex parent families and racially diverse characters, in an effort to teach children that differences are not a bad thing and that everyone is worthy of respect, regardless of gender, orientation or ethnicity - that equality and the celebration of differences has been fundamental to the Primary School curriculum (and Early Years, for that matter) for a very long time already.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Rightly so.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZgSIgfQtG7AIWFUVVe8RSWPEbMzK9ZX02ZICUoKaGB2C9oftlxB-AbQOt5yt46iZgGK5myj60Fvzs0oL0fHr08PmsyLes9SikEjQoABUDV4mdQHX3hC2dh2-qEdYZpeCaRK1JAlgCo68/s1600/LGBT2.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="262" data-original-width="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZgSIgfQtG7AIWFUVVe8RSWPEbMzK9ZX02ZICUoKaGB2C9oftlxB-AbQOt5yt46iZgGK5myj60Fvzs0oL0fHr08PmsyLes9SikEjQoABUDV4mdQHX3hC2dh2-qEdYZpeCaRK1JAlgCo68/s1600/LGBT2.gif" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Yes, an understanding of what they have in common with their friends and what makes them different and special is a core aspect of what children are expected to have learnt by the time they complete their first year of primary education. It has been for <i>years</i>. Why? Because it's important. It's important for a child's sense of self that he or she can recognise things they are good at. Things that make them unique. It's equally important for a child's blossoming understanding of society as a whole, that they appreciate that not everyone is the same as them and that those who differ are no <i>less</i> special than they are.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Why is it important? Well, think back to your school days. Every single one of us can probably remember <i>someone</i> who was bullied for being different in some way. Perhaps their family had a different set of customs and therefore stuck out. Maybe there was a child who dressed differently or spoke with an accent unfamiliar to the rest of their classmates. Perhaps there was one member of the class who struggled academically and fell behind everyone else. Or maybe they just didn't <i>look</i> "right."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Some of you will look back and realise that that "different kid" was <i>you</i>. I know that's what I remember when I look back to secondary school, in particular. And I know what a dreadful effect it had on the rest of my life. Bullying - which almost <i>always</i> stems from one child seeming to be "different" in some way - results in scars that last long after we leave the classroom. And so, happily, modern schools have measures in place to ensure that differences, be they cultural, religious, ability-based or surrounding a family dynamic, are celebrated and discussed, so that we teach children that their version of "normal" is not necessarily the same as that of their classmates, and that that is not a problem. We are all different. We can all be celebrated. We all deserve respect.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So far, so good.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP8txOx6ho10xZ0JRRqzWyjMebFk3-3OUj9lIscNcx71qcRxg29BuqD3NWuX7xWtyVzQGC71EXYr3N0nhARQ-b9VIOt65ISJ3TZBbw6KR98L95Lmo7hHyNj6b5U2jdLRQt4W8lrhCngUA/s1600/LGBT3.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="160" data-original-width="300" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP8txOx6ho10xZ0JRRqzWyjMebFk3-3OUj9lIscNcx71qcRxg29BuqD3NWuX7xWtyVzQGC71EXYr3N0nhARQ-b9VIOt65ISJ3TZBbw6KR98L95Lmo7hHyNj6b5U2jdLRQt4W8lrhCngUA/s320/LGBT3.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The trouble over this long-standing programme of inclusion has only sprung up because it now also includes differences in sexuality as standard. Suddenly, mothers and fathers who were perfectly happy to have little Daisy taught that some children only have one parent, are up in arms over the idea that their offspring might discover - heaven <i>forbid</i> - that some children have two parents of the same gender.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
That's it, in a nutshell. That's what the hoo-ha is about.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Never mind that the 2010 Equality Act already means that things such as discrimination on the basis of gender, sexual orientation, race or disability was already a thing you <i>can't do</i> and that we should be stamping out wherever possible, including in our schools; it took the introduction of the No Outsiders programme to convince protestors that the idea of children learning that gay people <i>exist </i>is THE WORST THING EVER!!!1!!ONE!!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnFGpsLfA2cFsVqhVhvlN2x85eaa9H7P6skq4DZ2bCPZwxgSFndCyO-2sCTeX8P3yH3BmmzI3peIfEnlWZpW0foaJjPSzqLsjvnmKf9aVqWLg3VlKAQ5mk4xxRqhyphenhyphen86sPuhimojocBKTI/s1600/LGBT4.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="279" data-original-width="418" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnFGpsLfA2cFsVqhVhvlN2x85eaa9H7P6skq4DZ2bCPZwxgSFndCyO-2sCTeX8P3yH3BmmzI3peIfEnlWZpW0foaJjPSzqLsjvnmKf9aVqWLg3VlKAQ5mk4xxRqhyphenhyphen86sPuhimojocBKTI/s320/LGBT4.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And so we find ourselves in a situation in which furious parents are taking their children out of school and forming protests outside these educational establishments, chanting and holding up placards. We find ourselves living in a world in which some school heads have suspended teaching of the No Outsiders programme, after receiving <i>death threats</i>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And for any child with two parents of the same gender (or an LGBTQ+ sibling or other relative, for that matter) what is that teaching <i>them</i>? That they're wrong. That they're bad. That they're <i>different</i> and unacceptable. Is that seriously what we've sunk to?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Many of the protestors are using religion as the excuse for their blatant homophobia. Many - laughably - are insisting that we <i>don't</i> call them "homophobic," as though the violent insistence that children cannot possibly be taught that LGBTQ+ people exist and are worthy of just as much respect as anyone else, is somehow something <i>other</i> than grotesquely homophobic. Just as "I'm not racist, but..." almost always leads to an inherently racist sentence, this cry of "we're not homophobic, but..." falls bitterly flat, when followed by the outright denial of children being taught to respect diversity and to show tolerance to those whose lives differ to their own.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We live in a country which allows people religious freedom and goes as far as to <i>protect</i> that freedom. However, we are a secular nation. Religious beliefs do not underpin our laws or our school curriculum and nor <i>should</i> they. As a non-religious person myself, I can say that the existence of God is unproven. The existence of <i>humans</i> is not. And those humans have every right to be represented, heard and respected, regardless of their sexual orientation. There is nothing <i>sinful</i> about being gay, in my eyes. And to those who believe that being gay is wrong for religious reasons, that is, again, a <i>belief</i>, not a provable fact. Therefore, we as a broader society - made up of people of all religions, as as well as agnostics and atheists - cannot be held to ransom by those who have chosen to interpret their faith in a way that persecutes the LGBTQ+ community.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Grossly, as a last resort against any kind of tolerance towards the LGBTQ+ community, homophobes will sometimes tell you that if we accept love between two men or two women, we must also accept "love" between a paedophile and a child. I shouldn't have to make the obvious statement that to conflate consensual love between two adults of the same gender, with sexual abuse between an adult and child is <i>horrific. </i>I don't know any gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender person who would ever, <b>ever</b> condone paedophilia. There is nothing loving about assault and to suggest as much is abhorrant.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Love between consenting adults, however, is and always has been, the most natural thing in the world.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRAreoWVJKV5QznX8uWjSmxyHqc08UxZe5sVHBVALMW50HcYiStTtkyqsLz78d9lUrI1H5PCbSI2tA4x_1PnrpyX-Q6RMOAp6auAyvlOKkhCF7zXhz5x6teRV_cDxMJjJBG8vdwETnUOo/s1600/LGBT5.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRAreoWVJKV5QznX8uWjSmxyHqc08UxZe5sVHBVALMW50HcYiStTtkyqsLz78d9lUrI1H5PCbSI2tA4x_1PnrpyX-Q6RMOAp6auAyvlOKkhCF7zXhz5x6teRV_cDxMJjJBG8vdwETnUOo/s320/LGBT5.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Alongside the parents complaining for religious reasons of course, we have parents who claim to be against the teaching of the No Outsiders programme for cultural or personal ones. These are the parents who claim that to mention gay people in schools somehow sexualises young children, or exposes them needlessly to something they shouldn't witness. These are often the same people who disapprove of sex education <i>full stop</i>. Because everyone knows, if a girl is shown how to put a condom on a banana at the age of 14, she'll be pregnant by 15. Obviously.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And yet these are often the same people who think nothing of asking a young girl if she has a "boyfriend" at school. Or of putting a baby boy in a "ladies man" t-shirt. Children are subjected to an almost aggressive level of heteronormative behaviour that simply never gets questioned, because it's so ingrained in society. It's okay to joke about two six year olds having to get married, because a boy has held a girl's hand. But it's not alright to explain that men can marry other men. Because that's somehow a line we can't cross.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
These "you're sexualising/confusing our children" types are often the ones who genuinely believe that "boys are going to be taught that they're actually girls," or that "children are going to be encouraged to believe that they're gay when they're not." I'd laugh, were it not for the fact that these are real arguments I've had from people who are against the No Outsiders programme and who have <i>clearly</i> not read about it, beyond what they've seen in The Daily Mail<i>.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Having worked in schools, pre-schools and nurseries for 18 years, I <i>have</i> read the curriculum. Everything that is taught has been adapted by year group, to ensure that it is age appropriate. The gist of the entire programme is simply: <i>"To teach children about the 2010 Equality Act and British Values. To reduce vulnerability to radicalisation and extremism. To teach children to be proud of who they are, whilst recognising difference and diversity. To create a positive school ethos, where everyone feels they belong." </i>There. I took that from the Equalities Primary website. Note the distinct lack of "<i>To teach boys that they are actually girls and to ensure that all children are made to doubt their own sexuality as much as possible."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And to those who believe that teaching about LGBTQ+ relationships will confuse children? When my friend's son was around 4, he met my sister's then partner (now wife). He wasn't remotely traumatised. He just instantly accepted that my sister loved a woman, then went on with his day. Children are not born judgemental. They are <i>taught</i> to be that way. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I am <i>passionate</i> about inclusion and diversity. I know how vital it is, in order to stamp out extremism and prevent bullying. I know how crucial representation is for a child who feels different, be it due to their burgeoning sexuality or their home circumstances. To be told that you are accepted, respected and loved is a basic human right. To deny that to anyone - at any age - is frankly revolting. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0MmvLOwGhiopyGntMVxO5cy3_N5J7yIPVTLb1MSbE4timctjggnC7SrXQ0QJRGr-t1l4nhRTxKWqRfoTnW4I6Yw2Cz0IlbUAYAg4xRsJr_zwwkdWr9B-hexqPaQY-T9LIVQ6MQZq5mLE/s1600/LGBT6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1440" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0MmvLOwGhiopyGntMVxO5cy3_N5J7yIPVTLb1MSbE4timctjggnC7SrXQ0QJRGr-t1l4nhRTxKWqRfoTnW4I6Yw2Cz0IlbUAYAg4xRsJr_zwwkdWr9B-hexqPaQY-T9LIVQ6MQZq5mLE/s320/LGBT6.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The Early Years curriculum has the core ethos: "Every Child Matters." This is indisputable, as far as I'm concerned. Every child <i>does</i> matter. Every child has the right to be represented. That includes children of same-sex parents. Children with LGBTQ+ family members. Children who, as they grow and develop, may find themselves questioning their own sexuality or struggling with their gender identity. Not because they've had those issues forced on them, but because not every child grows up to be straight and cisgendered. For those children, the knowledge that their school has been stopped from teaching that everyone is equal and worthy of respect, regardless of sexual orientation, has the potential to be hugely damaging. Why should any child suffer, just because a group of loud parents are using religion or outdated "moral values" as an excuse to be homophobic? And what are these parents "protecting" their children from? The knowledge that love takes many forms? The importance of tolerance rather than judgement?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We live in a world in which - finally - same sex marriage is becoming increasingly legalised and accepted. Yes, we still have countries in which it is simply not safe to be openly gay and that fact shames us as a species. But we are moving forwards. We are heading towards a world in which equality really <i>will</i> exist, on a universal scale. To get there, it is vital that we teach the next generation that love is more important than hate. That tolerance and acceptance should never be overshadowed by those who fear what they cannot - or <i>will</i> not - understand.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Equality is a <i>vital</i> thing to teach to the world's children.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />mrsmanicshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894116750061022896noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3966316529291694099.post-81450239497993764442019-04-07T21:00:00.002+01:002019-04-08T14:02:53.331+01:00My Top Ten Crazy Ex Girlfriend Songs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMwtBYY4jMsAOnEfrvnoAZVizWxiZC8abnhvBnNuzKRlDcGR_dEVcfY_-ZGI_VM0UEbhFlKQ0NjuON5EcBldYuw7YbDoNw1ch2tWGXt0KhVWSDa2uvGmJvie-erON4GGMfEHYvT2GPn1c/s1600/crazyex1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="269" data-original-width="480" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMwtBYY4jMsAOnEfrvnoAZVizWxiZC8abnhvBnNuzKRlDcGR_dEVcfY_-ZGI_VM0UEbhFlKQ0NjuON5EcBldYuw7YbDoNw1ch2tWGXt0KhVWSDa2uvGmJvie-erON4GGMfEHYvT2GPn1c/s400/crazyex1.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Around 2-3 years ago, my sister and sister-in-law were visiting and had gone into the kitchen to watch something. I could hear them laughing to the point that I became determined to find out just <i>what</i> was so funny. After I joined them in the kitchen, they showed me what it was that they were watching; a musical comedy show called <i>Crazy Ex Girlfriend. </i>They were on episode two and the song that caused so much mirth was called <i>I'm So Good At Yoga</i>. I watched it with them and by the end of that one song, I was completely and utterly hooked.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Last night, after four seasons of sheer brilliance, <i>Crazy Ex Girlfriend</i> reached its finale. A show that started off as a slightly oddball pastiche of romantic comedy, about a woman named Rebecca uprooting her life to chase down her first love and win him back, had ended up becoming a raw and yet ultimately uplifting portrayal of mental health problems, a beacon of feminism and inclusivity and a heartwarming display of the many different forms of love we find in our everyday lives. If it sounds a little ridiculous to say that my life is better for having discovered the show, so be it. It's true.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Crazy Ex Girlfriend</i> took comedy tropes and turned them on their heads. It used music to deliver jokes and communicate ideas fresher and braver than many shows dare to put out into the world. The cast were mind-boggling in their talents - this was no mere acting job. This was an ensemble who danced and sang in a whole host of styles. Over the course of 4 seasons, over 150 songs in a wide variety of genres were gifted to us and it's for that reason that the only way I can truly explain how much this show means to me and just why it's so amazing, is to go through some of those songs right now. Besides, I can't resist a top ten list...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Dq1x1tvvJ3NZbX31TIGZTc9FmBgSjQb4nwFd9qKM1AVgogztywMsjpXHMmgxu_EZxoO9nx-KE1sRqbJ7mvvFHrBgMLV_70L2CdwMLM6ojIUpyibRmD3CBwEPMtZ-yR_xbKiTEjDHj1I/s1600/crazyex2.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="356" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Dq1x1tvvJ3NZbX31TIGZTc9FmBgSjQb4nwFd9qKM1AVgogztywMsjpXHMmgxu_EZxoO9nx-KE1sRqbJ7mvvFHrBgMLV_70L2CdwMLM6ojIUpyibRmD3CBwEPMtZ-yR_xbKiTEjDHj1I/s400/crazyex2.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;">10) "I Have Friends"</span></h3>
<div>
So, a few months after I got really into <i>Crazy Ex Girlfriend</i>, some <i>stuff</i> started going on in my life. A stupid argument with one friend led to the implosion of my entire friendship group and shortly afterwards, I realised the person I'd spent years referring to as my "best friend" was... REALLY not. Like... A whole <i>lot</i> of "NOT."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Being the kind of weirdo who mercilessly mocks my own tragedies in life as a kind of bizarre coping mechanism, I took to singing this song to myself as a way of distracting my mind from the fact that I kind of... <i>didn't</i> have friends. Which, you know, is essentially what Rebecca is doing in this song. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Sarcastically singing <i>"I have friends, I DEFINITELY have friends</i>" was just a thing I did to get through a bad situation. And it worked! I'll always have a soft spot for it, as a result. Also, just like Rebecca realises she very much <i>does</i> have an incredible new support network of friends as the series continues, so I went on to realise I wasn't friendless, after all. Hooray!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/N__AkJriaN4/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/N__AkJriaN4?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>I Have Friends, I DEFINITELY have friends!</i></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b>9) "Let's Have Intercourse"</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Whilst we naturally focus on Rebecca and her character development across the four seasons, it's important to remember that one of the awesome things about <i>Crazy Ex Girlfriend</i> is the way it constantly develops the other characters in the show, too.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When we meet Nathaniel, he is hard, uncompromising and seemingly uncaring. Only once he is brought off his pedestal (by a bout of diarrhoea, because <i>duh,</i> of course that's what it took) and eventually realises his strange crush on Rebecca is actually <i>love </i>(that plot line is not connected to any bowel functions...), does he start to change as a person. And what's perfect is that he changes willingly, originally purely because he thinks only by becoming a nicer person will Rebecca want to be with him, but ultimately because he realises he's happier in all areas of his life when he <i>does</i> make the effort to be a better man. By the end of the final season, he's almost unrecognisable from the emotionless taskmaster he entered the show as.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Crazy Ex Girlfriend</i> does pastiches of well known songs and singers extraordinarily well and this song is a perfectly pitched play on <i>Thinking Out Loud</i>, by Ed Sheeran, but without any of the romance. As a result, it's both hilarious and somehow instantly familiar, even the very first time you hear it. And as for Rachel Bloom's ballet dancing... <i>Wow</i>. I mean, I know I have a super massive crush on her and I'm therefore biased, but the girl knocks it out of the park.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/pyaQluu5qbQ/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pyaQluu5qbQ?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I won't be back to normal til I see what your nipples look like...</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
...<i>They're probably straightforward nipples.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b style="color: purple; font-size: x-large;">8) "A Boyband Made Up of Four Joshes"</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In season one of <i>Crazy Ex Girlfriend</i>, Rebecca's psyche is often explored through her reminiscing over events from her childhood and early teens. In episode three, she recalls inviting everyone from school to come over and watch a boy band concert on pay per view at her house. Distressingly for young Rebecca, very few kids show up and when they do, they witness the breakdown of her parents' marriage, explaining why <i>adult</i> Rebecca has some pretty major issues with abandonment, lack of a reliable male figure in her life and the prospect of throwing parties...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Of course, at <i>this</i> party, Josh turns up and Rebecca instantly believes it's his presence (and not all the background work Paula's done to ensure plenty of people actually come...) that makes it a success. She dreamily revisits the pay per view boy band concert she never got to see, only in her own private fantasy, every member of the band is <i>Josh</i>. Now, having been a big fan of boy bands when I was growing up (and...er... I quite like them now, too...), I'm not about to suggest that anyone who enjoys a boy band has some mental health issues they need to address, but I do love the fact that in this song, the boy band is very much presented as a non-threatening entity, where all four members are offering to "fix" Rebecca's problems. Not only does it tie in to the fantasy a lot of young girls have (holding my hands up to this one) about the "perfect" member of a boy band being the ideal person who'd understand them and love them the <i>right</i> way (not like <i>real</i> guys, who might hurt them...), but it also neatly continues to emphasise Rebecca's delusional insistence that she requires the love of this one specific person in order to make her better, rather than working on fixing herself.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The song is also catchy as heck!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/RPw6sCTh9Q8/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RPw6sCTh9Q8?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Baby you can kiss all your unexplained symptoms goodbye,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>you're never gonna miss all those nightmares in which you tend to die...</i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b>7) "You're My Best Friend (And I Know I'm Not Yours)"</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Crazy Ex Girlfriend</i> has always been a fantastic analyser of relationships, be they romantic or otherwise. Whereas Rebecca's obsessive nature and often over-the-top feelings for her romantic interests was one of the main themes of the show, other characters and their relationships were usually given a fair amount of airtime, too. Darryl, originally Rebecca's boss in the show, is a favourite of mine, because (again, I hold my hands up) I often find that I identify with him. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Darryl is unashamed about his feelings and he finds it hard to keep them in. He loves completely and the people he loves are exceptionally important to him. Before Rebecca comes along, he lives quite happily, believing his workmate Paula is his best friend. Then Rebecca enters the equation and she and Paula have such an intense level of closeness, it's difficult for Darryl to get much of a look in. His feelings towards Paula don't change, but it's clear that she thinks of Rebecca as a much closer friend than he is. The trouble is, Darryl isn't great at stepping back and making Paula feel comfortable. He has a few boundary issues and whilst they come from a good place - loving and caring about the people in his life - they can serve to make people feel a little uncomfortable (I'm hoping this isn't something we share...). So, this song is Darryl's way of recognising that he's perhaps not as important to Paula as he wishes he was, but that that doesn't have to change the way <i>he</i> feels about <i>her</i> and she doesn't need to feel bad about it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Also, being that I <i>am</i> someone who loves completely and finds it hard to keep my feelings in, but who also self-analyses a lot and isn't as kind to myself as I possibly should be, I can massively identify with the idea of having to say "sure, I adore you but I realise you probably adore other people <i>more</i>." Tragic? Kinda. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/F2DFezUThXk/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/F2DFezUThXk?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>"That's why I love you like a sister </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>and you love me like a second cousin..."</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b style="color: purple; font-size: x-large;"><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b style="color: purple; font-size: x-large;">6) "I Hate Everything But You"</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b style="color: purple; font-size: x-large;"><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
At this point, picking songs and ordering them has gotten <i>hard. </i>In a lot of ways, this should be top three, but it's landed at number six and I had to bump a lot of songs I like, along the way.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
When Skylar Astin arrived in season four, taking over the role of Greg from Santino Fontana, I had some... feelings. I had shipped "Grebecca" <i>hard</i> and I'd spent two thirds of season two and all of season three wishing that Greg would come back and that they'd eventually get back together, but that was all based on the original Greg. Having him back and it being a different actor felt weird for a while.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
But Skylar is a great actor and singer and his portrayal of a slightly more easy-going Greg (believe it or not, given this song!) was hard to resist. Greg, with his enormous walls around himself and his habit of snarkily criticising things, was always the antithesis of Rebecca and her overly-emotional, almost childlike naivety and this song proved that Skylar Astin's portrayal of the character was just as true to who Greg really was as Santino Fontana's version in seasons one and two.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Rebecca's high level of enthusiasm for things that others might deem merely "okay" is something I very much identify with. I get ludicrously excited about things and it's definitely fair to say I sometimes <i>feel</i> things a bit too much. So I understood her disappointment at Greg not being as ecstatic about their day trip to a water park as she hoped he might be. That said, I think this song is rather beautiful in its own way and I feel like if someone wanted to serenade me with it, I'd probably melt!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/dw9j1aK8plM/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dw9j1aK8plM?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>I hate the phrase "love conquers all" </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>and I hate that it's true.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b>5) "Friendtopia"</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Crazy Ex Girlfriend </i>does an incredible job of exploring the ways that friendships can affect our lives just as much as any other kind of relationship, and it often uses the friendships the characters have as a mirror to their behaviour in their romantic attachments. For example, the way Rebecca tries to force Valencia and Heather into her idea of what a "girl group" should be is hugely similar to the way she desperately tries to squeeze her love life into her own unrealistic fantasy of what romance is. In a lot of ways, the season 2 episode that contains the song <i>Friendtopia</i> is difficult to watch, as Rebecca attempts to engineer two women who've openly confessed to not having had a lot of close female friends in the past, into being her new "squad," whilst also failing to recognise that in doing so, she's massively alienating her <i>best </i>friend, Paula. It's a clever way of highlighting that Rebecca's mental health issues don't only affect her romantic relationships, as well as being a reminder that friendships are better when they're not <i>forced</i>. Rebecca's behaviour risks causing the end of the friendship she has with Paula, simply because it doesn't fit her pop-culture-influenced mental image of what female friendship is supposed to look like.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Also, this song sounds like the Spice Girls and takes the concept of "Girl Power" to slightly scary places. Which will never fail to amuse me.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/rg4SF3_dlRM/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rg4SF3_dlRM?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>All citizens must watch Hocus Pocus, or they will be killed.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>ZIG-A-ZOW!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b>4) "It Was A Shit Show"</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This song marks the first time (very much not the last) that <i>Crazy Ex Girlfriend </i>made me cry. I mentioned earlier that I was very much Team Grebecca and despite the hugely dysfunctional nature of their relationship, I held out a lot of hope that they'd eventually settle into something lasting and <i>healthy</i>. Greg's perfectly sensible decision to call it off and go to business school in an attempt to get his life back on track, having admitted to being an alcoholic, was one that was hard to argue with, however. Santino Fontana was also one hell of a singer and the emotion in his voice during that last refrain <i>"I won't regret this beautiful, heart-stopping, breathtaking, life-changing..." </i>broke me.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It's a huge credit to the show's songwriters (Rachel Bloom, Jack Dolgen and Adam Schlesinger) that this song manages to so perfectly encapsulate the tugging of the heartstrings that takes place when you <i>know</i> you have to end something for your own good, despite knowing that it's going to hurt like hell to walk away. I'm putting the original show-version of this song as a link, because Santino's version is gorgeous and fully deserves to be heard, but I'd urge you all to seek out Rachel Bloom's live tour version, because DAMN.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/b-tAiOVMYFY/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/b-tAiOVMYFY?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Not to be crass,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>but this sucked ass.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>This was a shit show.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b>3) "Getting Bi"</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Okay, let's get emotionally <i>honest</i>. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
First things first: if there was a couple on <i>Crazy Ex Girlfriend</i> who I shipped even harder than Greg and Rebecca, it was, without question, Darryl and White Josh. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Darryl is a divorcee, who thinks he's 100% straight. So, when he starts to connect with White Josh, he thinks it's purely as a friend until, after helping him clean up following a party, White Josh kisses him on the cheek and winks as he leaves. This causes Darryl to openly question what it might <i>mean</i> and whether he's got to look at himself in a whole new light. He tries to tactfully find out whether White Josh is gay, by asking why they call him White Josh and not <i>Gay</i> Josh (way to go, Darryl!) and is stunned when White Josh laughs and says it's not like people call <i>him</i> "Old Gay Darryl." Darryl insists that he's straight, but the fact is, he's <i>obviously</i> intrigued and excited by the idea that White Josh might like him. There are full-on butterflies and loaded looks and it's just too adorable for words. Eventually, Darryl realises that he's bisexual - a fact he never cottoned on to until he was middle-aged and is therefore pretty stunned by. But Darryl being Darryl, he's also not someone who can hide his feelings. He quickly tells White Josh about how excited he is to be "out" and when White Josh suggests he try some gay dating apps, Darryl gushes that he won't find anyone he likes as much as <i>him</i>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
AAAAAAAAAAW.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Getting Bi is not only a massively catchy Huey Lewis pastiche, but it's just perfectly played on a variety of levels. Firstly, it's <i>very </i>on-brand for Darryl. Of <i>course</i> he would feel the need to gleefully dance around, telling everyone about his sexuality whether they want to know or not. Secondly, the reaction from everyone is <i>perfect</i>. They're not remotely bothered. They've been encouraging and helpful and <i>nobody</i> has seemed remotely fazed by the fact that their "straight" friend is agonising over his feelings for a guy. The only thing that riles them is that their boss is singing "yes I like sex" in the middle of a work meeting.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8s-Z46ixE5YQ1ldO8j6pRh_dAPsgr44ReFon5jdOfDRKYxLYh-EQ4uoHmvEMUmNsEZsN0JbBtlRiLKPQ1kxr03VgGsQSQglRLKmzCShmRN33uhE1Bsab-x_9c-I3RigI-lxQOD1guplk/s1600/crazyex3.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="173" data-original-width="307" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8s-Z46ixE5YQ1ldO8j6pRh_dAPsgr44ReFon5jdOfDRKYxLYh-EQ4uoHmvEMUmNsEZsN0JbBtlRiLKPQ1kxr03VgGsQSQglRLKmzCShmRN33uhE1Bsab-x_9c-I3RigI-lxQOD1guplk/s400/crazyex3.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now, I watched that episode at a fairly important time. As I mentioned at the start of this countdown, I got really into this show when I was going through a rough period with friends... well, not being friends, anymore. Something that came out of that whole thing was that a girl I knew at the time offered to be a support, over the internet. We'd talk every 2-3 days for an hour or so and she'd just check in on me and see if I was okay. I didn't really think anything of it, until I realised how much I was looking forward to hearing from her. And how pretty I thought she was. And how much she made me smile. Eventually, I asked myself a very simple question: If she asked me out, what would I say? And I realised the answer was a <i>resounding</i> yes. It suddenly didn't matter to me that she was a woman and I'd only ever been with guys and only ever <i>imagined</i> myself with a guy. I figured her gender would be too small a reason to turn her down, given how much I liked her. There'd be no harm in going on a date with her, just to <i>see</i>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
She never asked me out and I never told her how I felt. And given all the crap that was going on in my life at the time, I didn't quite have the emotional capacity to <i>deal</i> with what this newfound revelation might actually mean about me as a person, so I sort of... Pushed it out of my thoughts.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Until around ten months later when I had that feeling "like glitter was exploding inside me" (to borrow a quote from the show I'm meant to be discussing) and that feeling was caused by locking eyes with a woman I was just <i>instantly</i> attracted to. That was when I started to admit to myself that actually, yes, I was bisexual. And that that was fine. No biggie.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Seeing LGBT representation - specifically bisexual representation - provided so perfectly in <i>Crazy Ex Girlfriend</i> was a big deal for me and that was compounded in season 3, when Valencia - again, someone who considered herself completely straight and had only ever been interested in guys - met Beth and instantly "clicked" with her, then when the show did an "eight months later..." time jump, the pair were shown sitting, holding hands and clearly very much in love. And just like with Darryl, nobody batted an eyelid. Valencia had fallen for someone who was right for her. That person's gender was completely irrelevant.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The message <i>Crazy Ex Girlfriend</i> sent out with these two storylines was that you can think you're one thing, only to meet someone who makes you realise you're something else entirely. And that that doesn't have to be something frightening, or shocking. It's just about meeting someone you click with and realising that love doesn't always take the form you expect it to. You are who you are and that's fine.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
God, I love this show.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/YUDab9piv_U/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YUDab9piv_U?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I don't care if you wear high heels or a tie,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>you might just catch my eye because I'm definitely bi.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b>2) "You Stupid Bitch"</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
In a lot of ways, Rebecca Bunch is an anti-hero. She's a hugely troubled individual, whose actions are often questionable at best. In the episode from which this song is taken, she crosses a huge line and goes from "quirky girl driven to bad choices by her naive belief in happy ever afters" to "actually borderline psychotic." Having broken into Josh's apartment to delete a text she sent him by mistake, she's mortified when he finds her there and she has to make a quick excuse. Lying that someone threw a rock through her window and she was too afraid to be at home alone, Rebecca is put on the spot when Josh offers to go back to her place with her and she's forced to call Paula and beg her best friend to put a rock through the window before she and Josh get back home. The trouble is, the rock in question turns out to be a decorative rock that Paula's husband took from Rebecca's coffee table, whilst nipping into the apartment to use the bathroom. Josh quickly realises that the rock came from inside the apartment and questions everything that has happened, eventually leaving Rebecca alone and devastated. She tries to fall back on Greg, who happens to be passing by, but he's determined not to let himself get close to her again and Rebecca ends up spiralling into self-pity, realising she's "ruined everything."</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Whilst I'd like to think I've <i>never</i> done anything as stereotypically "crazy" as the events leading up to this song, I can empathise with feeling like you've done something monumentally stupid and ruined everything. I'm someone who beats herself up over the tiniest little thing and I've been known to attend the odd private pity party for myself. This song has, therefore, become my go-to tune when I'm feeling especially down on myself and fancy wallowing for a bit. It's a very pretty ballad and it perfectly encapsulates that angry-sad feeling of "well, I'm the <i>worst</i> human <i>ever</i>."</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/vrPrr4wmnJ4/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vrPrr4wmnJ4?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Bitch. You're a stupid bitch. </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>And lose some weight.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>1) Face Your Fears</b></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;">Paula Proctor is an absolute badass. Yes, she's also a deeply flawed character in a lot of ways, given the huge amount of <i>insane</i> stuff we find out she's done in order to help Rebecca win Josh, over the course of the first season. She pours all of her energy into her best friend's love life, rather than face her dissatisfaction with her own marriage, her career and her family life, for a long time, which is... Less than healthy.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;">But Paula is fiercely loyal, tough, smart, funny and someone who you would <i>absolutely</i> want fighting your corner for you. Besides which, Donna Lynne Champlin has one of the best voices on the whole show, combined with some of the greatest comic timing, both of which combine to make <i>Face Your Fears</i> my absolute favourite song from the show. The advice she gives in the song is unquestionably <i>bad</i>, but even having heard it dozens of times, it <i>still</i> makes me laugh. It was also only the second song I ever heard from the show and it takes me straight back to sitting in my kitchen with my sister and sister-in-law, marvelling at the amazing TV series we'd just discovered.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;">And just like that, this blog has gone full-circle.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/DrytvZc5Tew/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DrytvZc5Tew?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>If a bear runs at you in the woods, don't run away.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Look it deep in the eyes, put your hand on its chest and say</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>"BEAR, I'M NOT AFRAID!"</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
There's not much more I can say, other than thank you to Rachel Bloom and Aline Brosh McKenna for creating this incredible TV show. For giving the world something that picks apart stereotypes and portrays mental health problems realistically, even though that sometimes means it's uncomfortable to watch. For showing female sexuality as an empowering thing and female friendships as something beyond the usual sitcom trope of "the girls," drinking wine and giggling on the sofa. For making it blatantly obvious that a person can fall in love with <i>anyone, </i>regardless of gender and regardless of the way that person might have previously identified, sexually. For giving us characters who are believable, with massive flaws and ridiculous ideas, as well as all the things that make them loveable. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
And I should add that several songs I <i>love</i> didn't make this list, purely because I would have been here all night, doing a top fifty. So, special mentions to:<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><i>Let's Generalise About Men</i></span><br />
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Lu3FE7BswYI/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Lu3FE7BswYI?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><span style="color: purple; font-size: large;">Dream Ghost</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/YlrynHRC0pA/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YlrynHRC0pA?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><i>Group Hang</i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><i></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><i><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/elrDmZxtLtU/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/elrDmZxtLtU?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><i>We'll Never Have Problems Again</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><i><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/9gVOeTHoOXY/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9gVOeTHoOXY?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><i>Ping Pong Girl</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/PMY0MTTv16E/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PMY0MTTv16E?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
And so many other songs. Just... Go watch the show.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
You won't regret it.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: inline !important; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="color: purple; font-size: x-large;"></i></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i style="color: purple; font-size: x-large;"></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
mrsmanicshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894116750061022896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3966316529291694099.post-23767242609318217112019-03-24T12:29:00.000+00:002019-03-24T12:29:37.876+00:00When Did Life Get So BUSY?!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyvatKRTCfbenN9QDHtVX_hQO-9gkYRlFq1HerLBJiOjI2kFBAoQbhxsErnpMe173DBgRlAvxCB5Pe4rWyk32102zwmOAlrUKxvZSHCbZiTYi619NjWYGqth8IOa__j89J3e6FYepLuN4/s1600/busy1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="463" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyvatKRTCfbenN9QDHtVX_hQO-9gkYRlFq1HerLBJiOjI2kFBAoQbhxsErnpMe173DBgRlAvxCB5Pe4rWyk32102zwmOAlrUKxvZSHCbZiTYi619NjWYGqth8IOa__j89J3e6FYepLuN4/s320/busy1.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Back in early 2017, I remember thinking I was never going to <i>do</i> much, again. I was going through a really nasty bout of depression, brought on by a fairly well-documented life event. I had my day job and maybe once a month or so, I'd see a friend. I was making YouTube videos and writing weekly children's stories, to give myself a creative outlet, but that was it. There really wasn't much more to my existence.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Fast forward to now and I'm suddenly wondering when life got quite this <i>busy</i>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You see, I now have far more hours in my day job, so I've got less free time. And yet I'm now also a singer with a chorus, I'm training/studying for a qualification in directing, seeing as I'm Assistant Director of that chorus, I'm a member of an offshoot quartet formed via said chorus, I run social media accounts for the chorus, I co-host a podcast, I still have my own YouTube channel, as well as two others to create content for, I try to write whenever I get the chance and my social life actually <i>exists</i>, again. Oh, and my best friend and I are talking seriously about setting up a business together.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It sounds hectic. It probably <i>is</i>, if I actually sit and think about all the stuff I have to do. But I love it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzQ7qn38Yv4G_DJpNyK3HJ2q4BwTYj5InHeMdRAIXcTeM5fso57MWonmkfW0EvnP0viuTlUZxnWKWP3hHmkIW3ZXCK08dt7QVNCHgg6sQ1b-BlV1TytYAIkFD8dcn7b7bG7heKVQsWysI/s1600/busy2.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="279" data-original-width="500" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzQ7qn38Yv4G_DJpNyK3HJ2q4BwTYj5InHeMdRAIXcTeM5fso57MWonmkfW0EvnP0viuTlUZxnWKWP3hHmkIW3ZXCK08dt7QVNCHgg6sQ1b-BlV1TytYAIkFD8dcn7b7bG7heKVQsWysI/s320/busy2.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In the last couple of days, I've had a bit of a stressy "blip," thinking about how I'm going to fit things in. I've asked myself how I can dedicate myself to each individual thing I have to do, without watering anything down due to time constraints. I've panicked that I might focus too much on one thing and let another slide, which is terrifying, especially considering one of the things I'm doing is going to involve exams, which I definitely don't want to fail. And I've wondered how I'll fit in any "down time" for myself.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And then I came to my senses.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I've always managed to squeeze a YouTube recording session into an afternoon off work. I've always fitted editing into my evenings. It doesn't often take more than 4 hours to edit one of my videos and it's frequently less than that, since I'm pretty good at writing detailed notes for myself, so I know exactly what I'm doing. With that in mind, a weekly YouTube video for my channel can generally be sorted out in one afternoon/evening, leaving me the rest of the week for other stuff.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Once I'd gotten that into my head, everything started to feel less hectic. I told myself I'd come up with something of a study timetable (probably worked around evenings where there's not something I really want to watch on telly and I'm not out at rehearsals) for the course I'm doing. My best friend and I have already gone through the calendar for the rest of the year and plotted out when we need to record videos/podcasts, so that's all organised. Social media is an ongoing thing that I <i>love</i> doing and it has become part of my daily activities, without me even thinking about it. It turns out that I was panicking over nothing, really. I can do this. All of it. I can do it because I <i>want</i> to.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8PTjBYYE5QgqyVh0y0wcVrLJ8fGGQWKmJf3RpuEFl0_2_VDNGrfmHYh_5xfZQsfeXTxHvtgOGD7Pqtb1qioTFUyh9fB0dGCJRP27hGYISAh7pY2plb6Y-YtpC7y4MZl8T2k3VWrmciok/s1600/busy3.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="192" data-original-width="220" height="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8PTjBYYE5QgqyVh0y0wcVrLJ8fGGQWKmJf3RpuEFl0_2_VDNGrfmHYh_5xfZQsfeXTxHvtgOGD7Pqtb1qioTFUyh9fB0dGCJRP27hGYISAh7pY2plb6Y-YtpC7y4MZl8T2k3VWrmciok/s320/busy3.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You see, everything I've got going on - all the things that are keeping me busy - are things I love. Things I enjoy doing, with people I want to spend my time with. When you realise that, your life feels less full-up and more...just <i>full</i>. Sure, that probably makes no sense to anyone not living in my head, but it makes sense to me, at least.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My life is full of opportunities to learn and grow. It's full of possibilities. I get to keep my creative juices flowing, have a lot of fun in the process <i>and</i> I am discovering new skills. All of that is good. It's something to be happy about.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sure, there will be days when I still stress over upcoming exams, or worry that I've spent too long on one project and not enough on another, because that's just <i>me</i>. But when I look back at my life in early 2017, it seems horribly empty. Life nowadays is busy, exciting and challenging.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And that's just the way I like it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />mrsmanicshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894116750061022896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3966316529291694099.post-77967377644459304432019-03-11T16:42:00.000+00:002019-03-11T16:42:25.474+00:00So, You've Decided To Be A Misogynist...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj65_gICFf7YB1OKHsS7NuM91dVomwU5ANg5npAQ76ic9zBwbXMT9Y763Q-iEsvwhZdH52yRjGqvMpqkRQVj8nU3m61IiIxFYbQWaUTDqotzPnrQ1z7alxhX8Rm7VzX2hfxvlnFOwIYHOU/s1600/angry2.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="371" data-original-width="400" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj65_gICFf7YB1OKHsS7NuM91dVomwU5ANg5npAQ76ic9zBwbXMT9Y763Q-iEsvwhZdH52yRjGqvMpqkRQVj8nU3m61IiIxFYbQWaUTDqotzPnrQ1z7alxhX8Rm7VzX2hfxvlnFOwIYHOU/s320/angry2.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I spent most of yesterday with my head down the toilet. Working in a germ factory, as I do, has the fabulous perk of making you vomit yourself inside out, every now and then. Yay. But given that all I've had the energy for in the last 36 hours or so has been staring at my phone, I've been doing a <i>lot</i> of Internet stuff; reading threads on Facebook that I might usually have scrolled past, searching hashtags on Twitter, just for something to <i>do</i>, that sort of thing. And I'm here to tell you it had a very profound effect on me. <br />
<br />
It made me mad.<br />
<br />
In fact, it made me <i>furious</i>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8A1XHdVe1lH1awzTQn07cM4gfXHZXfHiF3WUzt_BwoQlo_ZgVGfvDZou-wdFmzPzWzM6NyW8Izcd7r0JCyTHRz7iwYfQfW70kE6x6zzSRfr8aG8UWcrhBIAuEhDLji1WYsdlTRi4ac2U/s1600/angry1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="150" data-original-width="250" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8A1XHdVe1lH1awzTQn07cM4gfXHZXfHiF3WUzt_BwoQlo_ZgVGfvDZou-wdFmzPzWzM6NyW8Izcd7r0JCyTHRz7iwYfQfW70kE6x6zzSRfr8aG8UWcrhBIAuEhDLji1WYsdlTRi4ac2U/s320/angry1.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You see, one of the hashtags I caught up with on Twitter, was for International Women's Day, which took place on Friday. And there, amongst the genuinely touching tweets from women supporting one another and from men speaking up about equality (special shout out to Richard Herring, who raises money for Refuge each year on IWD, and who responds to <i>countless</i> guys moaning about there not being an International Men's Day - there is, it's November 19th), the inevitable happened.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Firstly, I stumbled upon a dude who, reading between the lines of his <i>multiple</i> rage-filled tweets, has recently been forced to pay child support. How could I guess such a thing? Because he had gone on an epic rant on the hashtag, claiming that all women were "<i>bitches"</i> who <i>"get pregnant deliberately because they just want your cash."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Because, dear reader, only a woman is capable of making a baby happen. The man in the situation has <i>nothing</i> to do with it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Then came the "jokes." You know, the ones which <i>might</i> be funny if it was 1956. Or if there weren't still plenty of people who seriously hold these opinions in twenty freaking nineteen:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"I guess I'll allow women one day out of the kitchen, then. As long as the wife is back to getting my dinner on the table, tomorrow."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"International Women's Day seems to be making women angry. They must all be on their period."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo39SDa5uLfwYXI7Zc2BduX9MUaDAVCMxjliNVB93jFdeCqk82CUudkes9UQbzts2xJFxp2SYU4p2l2EXCaV9mG21XnUgUsG_RNpeZ2HpjURT1s3YOOLMX6ehcffsIJFmUZ_02nuonStk/s1600/angry4.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="124" data-original-width="220" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo39SDa5uLfwYXI7Zc2BduX9MUaDAVCMxjliNVB93jFdeCqk82CUudkes9UQbzts2xJFxp2SYU4p2l2EXCaV9mG21XnUgUsG_RNpeZ2HpjURT1s3YOOLMX6ehcffsIJFmUZ_02nuonStk/s320/angry4.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Meanwhile, over in Turkey, police were busy tear-gassing women who had gathered to march for women's rights. For the past 17 years, women have marched the same route on International Women's Day, but that didn't stop police from unleashing a hail of rubber bullets on participants, even whilst the Turkish President made a speech, claiming to be "on the side of women."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If women marching for equality, only to met with tear-gas and rubber bullets, isn't a striking piece of evidence that International Women's Day is still needed, I don't know what is.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And then came the men who genuinely see women as subservient to them and, for reasons best known to themselves, felt the need to use International Women's Day as a platform for their genuinely gross views:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"I hope all women learn a lesson. Never leave a pub without a guy. We give you a safe drive home, you give us sex in return. This is what happens when women think they can do things on their own and be independent."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"<i>Women's movements are always about putting down men. Well if women were really so woke, they wouldn't wait years to report their sexual assaults, or talk about it on any platform other than to the police."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"Sexist bullshit. Hope International Men's Day is given way more attention. Women are bound to protest it. All feminists want is to crush men to the ground."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1n1E8H6VNn8de7i0kcSjJHRcZsrwBsuth-uQGmTQ9iCmj1o72n_iVrEmKAMs4lHG8YtM7lugkdq55Rm_i6maEeYtdCAUwydyPItlApgoRAhleRYadlsy8nT5C1s2O4-GjR9ANGwB0guQ/s1600/angry5.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="214" data-original-width="361" height="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1n1E8H6VNn8de7i0kcSjJHRcZsrwBsuth-uQGmTQ9iCmj1o72n_iVrEmKAMs4lHG8YtM7lugkdq55Rm_i6maEeYtdCAUwydyPItlApgoRAhleRYadlsy8nT5C1s2O4-GjR9ANGwB0guQ/s320/angry5.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's a sad indictment on (some!) men, when the only way they seem to be able to compute the idea that women deserve respect, is when they're reminded that their <i>mothers</i> are women. Their sisters, their grandmothers and, if by some miracle these misogynists have them, their wives or girlfriends. For some guys, it seems as though they can only get on board with being respectful if it's towards a <i>specific</i> woman, who they happen to know personally. Any other female is fair game.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A case in point occurred when I went from Twitter to Facebook, in search of a conversation that would make me less liable to want to gouge my own eyes out.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Firstly, I caught up with a <i>Coronation Street</i> thread, about the forthcoming wedding of characters Kate and Rana (I ship them so hard, it physically <i>hurts</i> me to know that Rana's leaving the series). Frustratingly, it didn't take long for the comments to turn nasty. In the interest of fairness, I'll point out that plenty of women were moaning about not liking the characters, or being annoyed by the upcoming plots etc. But it was the number of men who were saying things like <i>"These two women get too much attention on the show. Rana should have stayed with her husband! As if you'd leave a man for a woman!"</i> that really rankled. It's as though misogyny on its own isn't enough - we have to <i>also</i> indulge in a bit of homophobia for fun, too. And as a side note, come <i>on</i>; Rana's husband was a whinging dullard with nothing interesting to say for himself. If she hadn't realised she was in love with her female best friend, I'd like to think she'd have left him eventually anyway, lest she die of boredom.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju4nACdIeHKoySv_QubV7Wtzib7e9BJZo0vLAXnLwDXyVsCM7jnNSjSy_H4E-fuOnCHNUajQUbzHlUh-tkB52_LHyHFn3botUNi1eGR1LnvMW21_qkz6Gj8JhOdpKU5l2o1_q3__Ep1Yg/s1600/angry6.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="540" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju4nACdIeHKoySv_QubV7Wtzib7e9BJZo0vLAXnLwDXyVsCM7jnNSjSy_H4E-fuOnCHNUajQUbzHlUh-tkB52_LHyHFn3botUNi1eGR1LnvMW21_qkz6Gj8JhOdpKU5l2o1_q3__Ep1Yg/s320/angry6.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>KANA FOREVER. *sigh*</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Then, a page I follow on Facebook posted a sweet story about a guy who approached two men he thought were a couple, to ask if they would mind talking to him about how best he could support his son, who he suspected might be gay. He wanted to know how to ensure his son felt safe and loved, without feeling pressured to come out before he was ready to. The two men in question (who, it turned out, weren't a couple, but <i>were</i> gay and drew on their own experiences to help the guy) told him what an amazing job he was doing as a father, just by being so accepting about the whole thing. The comments beneath the article were full of sweet, supportive statements.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
AND THEN IN CAME THE MISOGYNIST.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"If these guys had been saying all this stuff to a woman, she'd have accused them of "mansplaining," instead of it being a sweet story. Double standards!"</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When a woman - perfectly politely - explained that no woman would accuse a guy of "mansplaining" if she'd actually asked him a question and he'd answered it, the dude told her she was <i>"full of crap."</i> When another woman backed the first woman up and explained that "mansplaining" referred to a guy patronisingly telling a woman something she usually already knows, <i>without</i> having been asked to, Mr Misogynist responded by telling her: <i>"You crazy women need to give up your war on men." </i>After a third woman replied, backing up the first two, the dude responded that all three were <i>"nothing but feminist trash."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
He eventually went on a long rant, explaining that "<i>feminism is a disgusting cancer on society. If you're a white cis man, you are a target of hatred. Feminists believe in some imaginary "patriarchy" but if you look, you will see that feminism is nothing more than a movement to put men in their place and make females dominant. It has nothing to do with equality. It is a CANCER."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhumeIACPcjmPtnjvxVeAAYMpeXQVpe6fG3pGBglpzTQ6LXrI3QqKQgpSAa2zrg2iBSFH4re5FFqUB_iGwmSmOFFa6s1Z_-1jOQaX9AY_NOLlVQ7bWf3F1GjvVZE7NS2T-Qpe5VYGUAnQw/s1600/angry7.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="266" data-original-width="498" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhumeIACPcjmPtnjvxVeAAYMpeXQVpe6fG3pGBglpzTQ6LXrI3QqKQgpSAa2zrg2iBSFH4re5FFqUB_iGwmSmOFFa6s1Z_-1jOQaX9AY_NOLlVQ7bWf3F1GjvVZE7NS2T-Qpe5VYGUAnQw/s400/angry7.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ah, yes. Cis white men. The world's most truly oppressed group.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And what, pray tell, is a man's "place?" Because for <i>years</i>, women have been told that <i>their</i> place is in the home, raising kids. Or tied to the kitchen sink. For <i>years, </i>we've been judged in ways men can't possibly begin to understand.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We're too fat. Or too thin. We're showing too much skin and should be ashamed. We're not showing <i>enough</i> skin and should remember we're supposed to look <i>sexy</i>. We're wrong to choose not to have kids, but we're awful if we have them and go back to work. We should dress in a way that pleases men, but we're then responsible if one of them "can't help" but rape us, because we're too tempting. We're too mousy and quiet, or we're too opinionated and over-emotional. In far too many countries, we're still not allowed control over our own bodies. In too many countries, we're still prevented from voting. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I mean, for crying out loud, half the time, our trousers don't even have pockets! Because somewhere along the line, some designer decided that women don't <i>need</i> to carry tissues, or small change, or have their phone close to them, or anything sensible like that.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPmzFlrHAvNyeTUlU2x73tdv0-Sbqw4_CMIQnP7lr2GdzuNg3uy1duiB5L76gAgGYVEsRntz7URBihjRqaY3aCpM2eb8jclZeZ4zJvZ5rJ8wFHDIHa8Lg3m-gvsrplnOJS5xSCukMGEAQ/s1600/angry3.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="252" data-original-width="500" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPmzFlrHAvNyeTUlU2x73tdv0-Sbqw4_CMIQnP7lr2GdzuNg3uy1duiB5L76gAgGYVEsRntz7URBihjRqaY3aCpM2eb8jclZeZ4zJvZ5rJ8wFHDIHa8Lg3m-gvsrplnOJS5xSCukMGEAQ/s320/angry3.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I don't hate men. I hate misogynists, but thankfully, not <i>all</i> men are misogynists. I have male friends who appreciate that women are their equals. I have male family members who are as appalled as I am when they hear of countries where women's rights are still practically in the Dark Ages. I know men who don't <i>only</i> respect the women they're related to, or are in a relationship with.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But the misogynists are still out there. Still shouting that feminism is cancer and that women are somehow "making up" the very real injustices we face. Whether they truly believe that if women had <i>real</i> equality, it would somehow destroy their lives, or whether they just dislike women so much they can't bear the thought of them being treated like <i>people</i> is a whole other question. But they exist.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
They're the ones who question what you were wearing and whether you were walking alone, if you complain about being harassed.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
They're the ones who claim there already <i>is</i> total equality and that the patriarchy is a myth, despite mountains of evidence to the contrary.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
They're the ones who jump straight to calling you "an angry lesbian" if you reject their unsolicited dick pic. Spoiler: that really happened to me. As it turns out, I'm actually bisexual, but dudes like that make me <i>much</i> keener on girls.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
They're the ones who derail International Women's Day by spending the whole day asking when International Men's Day is, only to be strangely silent on November 19th. It's <i>almost</i> as if they're less concerned about having their own day, than they are about arguing against women having one, too.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_DKzu-vQrhH8g-NpjLUGnAn08uTZf6NTs8sgOMqZ2e-AGRAkzHCncwLmCSoZbOj7Bo4gKsCAftbPvZmVrLDYigOnG2LrZ5Fz0RhfvscGAF3US1OvfiF6_O1cmw2QycTy6OXPKXUBkh2Q/s1600/angry8.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="278" data-original-width="498" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_DKzu-vQrhH8g-NpjLUGnAn08uTZf6NTs8sgOMqZ2e-AGRAkzHCncwLmCSoZbOj7Bo4gKsCAftbPvZmVrLDYigOnG2LrZ5Fz0RhfvscGAF3US1OvfiF6_O1cmw2QycTy6OXPKXUBkh2Q/s320/angry8.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I don't have the answers as to why men who seem to genuinely <i>hate</i> women are still a <i>thing</i>. All I know is that I'm pretty damn tired of them. So, next time you decide to be a misogynist, remember that the people you're targeting are living a life you've never experienced. A life that <i>still</i>, in many parts of the world, offers them fewer opportunities than you get. A life that will be judged in ways yours never will be. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And then maybe, just maybe, ask yourself what's so terrible about treating people with equal respect, instead.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<br />
<br />mrsmanicshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894116750061022896noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3966316529291694099.post-1236101955131874122019-02-03T16:41:00.003+00:002019-02-03T16:41:54.935+00:00The Day The Music Died<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCm1VV5jNYdB4uqYEoB6tOkoBTjVA9KVqkgPvRkZUBjpkVvoBRbnAfbXccDMazG5wA3zP9d8rz7zxlPWjA9SY5P7ixEuFU0BgSqwiJxu6PzT14iPAiY2TOu7X6ohUfjbMZgsDRcMFLI5U/s1600/dtmd2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="821" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCm1VV5jNYdB4uqYEoB6tOkoBTjVA9KVqkgPvRkZUBjpkVvoBRbnAfbXccDMazG5wA3zP9d8rz7zxlPWjA9SY5P7ixEuFU0BgSqwiJxu6PzT14iPAiY2TOu7X6ohUfjbMZgsDRcMFLI5U/s400/dtmd2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm pretty sure the cassette tape had come free, from somewhere. In the back of my mind, a part of me thinks it might have been something my dad got from saving up points with a particular petrol station, but I could have invented that, completely. What I do know for sure was that it was a cassette full of "Hits From The 50s" and I would only have been around 7 years old when Dad got it and started playing me some of the songs he remembered hearing on the radio in his earliest years.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
By the time I was 8, I was already trying to sing the harmonies to <i>All I Have To Do Is Dream</i> by The Everly Brothers. I knew all of the words to <i>Blueberry Hill</i> by Fats Domino. And I had perfected my Big Bopper impression, from the start of <i>Chantilly Lace</i>: <i>"Hello baaaaaaaaaby!"</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And just as my mum got me into The Beatles, Abba and The Carpenters at a young age, my dad, thanks to that cassette tape, got me into Buddy Holly.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijRi571uJdGN0XoBY36wTObpPiSNsGHBbEOe532-O0sgbU4a4I7pmbXuvFQF0bekjy6PH0DS8nKw2aV6WtBofsBr9RfWjhLlqpNCO4_Dp4yQ0yEL-1uQXQubA_f2UiErAehYxcS73_uMY/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-02-03+at+15.10.40.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="864" data-original-width="858" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijRi571uJdGN0XoBY36wTObpPiSNsGHBbEOe532-O0sgbU4a4I7pmbXuvFQF0bekjy6PH0DS8nKw2aV6WtBofsBr9RfWjhLlqpNCO4_Dp4yQ0yEL-1uQXQubA_f2UiErAehYxcS73_uMY/s400/Screen+Shot+2019-02-03+at+15.10.40.png" width="396" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I don't entirely remember which of Buddy's songs was on that tape, but I'm going to assume it was probably <i>That'll Be The Day</i>. What I do remember was that his was one of the catchiest songs on the cassette (<i>La Bamba,</i> aside). And I remember thinking I wanted to hear more from the guy with the funny "hiccup" style of singing, because he sounded cool.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Over the years between my childhood and my twenties, I "discovered" more of Buddy's back catalogue. For a guy who only spent around 18 months making music before he was tragically killed at the age of just 22, there was a fair amount to find. From up-tempo rock and roll tunes like <i>Oh Boy!</i> to wistful ballads, such as <i>True Love Ways</i>, it was obvious to my ears that this young man from Lubbock Texas, with his thick spectacles and curly hair, had been extraordinarily gifted. Even the tunes he didn't write, he was able to put his own distinctive spin on, so that they became instantly recognisable as Buddy Holly songs. He experimented with sound, damping his guitar strings one minute, twanging them in an effortless solo, the next (often in the same song). He wasn't afraid to play with a big band, adding strings and extra instrumentation for songs like <i>Raining In My Heart</i> at a time when clean guitar sound was just becoming all the rage. He demanded artistic control, ensuring that his backing musicians played exactly the way he wanted to. He was even a pioneer of using studio technology to achieve the sound he desired, something many of today's singer-songwriters take for granted.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Despite his tragically brief stint as a recording artist, Buddy was one of the pioneers of rock and roll and influenced countless <i>hugely</i> successful musicians who found fame long after his death; Elton John, Brian May, The Rolling Stones and Bruce Springsteen, to name just a few. And his influence on The Beatles is well-documented; the first song The Quarrymen (the precursor to the Fab Four) ever recorded together was a cover of <i>That'll Be The Day</i> and they went on to cover <i>Words Of Love</i>, too. Even more modern acts, perhaps sometimes without even realising it, owe some of their sound to Buddy Holly's vision, all those years ago. As Keith Richards once put it: "<i>Listen to any new release. Buddy will be in it, somewhere. His stuff just works."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Buddy also managed to become a rock and roll legend, <i>without</i> succumbing to the excesses of fame. Somewhat shy, he had married a woman he'd fallen head over heels for and was expecting his first child, when his life was so cruelly snuffed out. No diva demands for this rock icon; in fact, the only reason he was on the plane that crashed on February 3rd 1959, killing him along with Ritchie Valens, The Big Bopper and the plane's pilot, was because he wanted to skip ahead to the next location on the tour he was part of, so that he could do some laundry and have some rest, in order to be fresh for his next performance. Indeed, he was only participating in the tour to provide for his new family, having been denied royalties owed to him by the man who'd been his manager.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7YjHXmnlIDUj1bXWxlOJDyKK2RIZ5AjwXR5v0a1QIIA8sH4L0LKw3F7FS0PuQzlG2fThzGzEVfJN7wyeRSwSkhU6l5qbNBy0QIO13UXDo0Sk_SG_JIf50pfyLAIR7Mrsknyo8V032sWs/s1600/dtmd3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="288" data-original-width="460" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7YjHXmnlIDUj1bXWxlOJDyKK2RIZ5AjwXR5v0a1QIIA8sH4L0LKw3F7FS0PuQzlG2fThzGzEVfJN7wyeRSwSkhU6l5qbNBy0QIO13UXDo0Sk_SG_JIf50pfyLAIR7Mrsknyo8V032sWs/s400/dtmd3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A week after his death, <i>It Doesn't Matter Anymore</i> (incidentally, my favourite Buddy Holly song) was released in the UK and shot straight to number one. Devastated by the news of three rockstars dying so tragically young, Don McClean wrote <i>American Pie, </i>describing the events of the early hours of February 3rd 1959 as "the day the music died."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We'll never know what Buddy could have gone on to achieve. The same can be said for Ritchie Valens, who at 17 was the youngest life lost that night, and for J.P "The Big Bopper" Richardson. But Buddy's legacy is one that continues to this day, inspiring musicians with his distinctive vocals, pioneering studio techniques and clever guitar playing.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
He may be gone, but Buddy's music will live forever.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />mrsmanicshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894116750061022896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3966316529291694099.post-45973269818800616612019-01-27T15:46:00.000+00:002019-01-27T16:13:14.373+00:00We CANNOT Be Blind To The Past<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi86QK38scDkeiYgBr6kqwYOKkegifzENesuzP-ab5EIKl5tkKpn853J73slp4mxyRvyiLfrw6EmW-5LgMrmaEsqyIxFh6OaYZh9dIp425JwA80nIeWeW0OmEyJ64UluTZn5r8iY5eQzHU/s1600/holocaust-memorial-day-logo-300x248.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="248" data-original-width="300" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi86QK38scDkeiYgBr6kqwYOKkegifzENesuzP-ab5EIKl5tkKpn853J73slp4mxyRvyiLfrw6EmW-5LgMrmaEsqyIxFh6OaYZh9dIp425JwA80nIeWeW0OmEyJ64UluTZn5r8iY5eQzHU/s400/holocaust-memorial-day-logo-300x248.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I was a child when I first heard about the Holocaust. My world was filled with imaginative games, bike rides in the sunshine and books to be read. The horrors of places like Auschwitz or Belsen were impossible to fathom. I heard about children as young as I was being imprisoned and eventually gassed to death. It was too awful to think about and yet for a while after I first learned about the Holocaust, that was all I did.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A few years later, I read the diary of Anne Frank. I read it when I was at a similar age to hers when it was written. I recognised the frustrations, the passions and the dreams she filled her pages with. But there were aspects that were shocking; a world away from the one I knew. The fear of capture. The horrors of war. The hatred faced by people for no reason beyond their creed. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Just like when I was a child, first hearing about the Holocaust, for a while after I finished the diary, it was all I could think about. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Slaughter on a mass scale. Camps that became machines of death. Hatred that spilled over into atrocity. I read the words. I saw the photographs. I thanked my lucky stars that I was growing up in an altogether different world. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Or so I believed.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHIpo9LOL9GizofnT5DhZHONKEXmIqvZz3NZUIZnMxmbP8GTuZrJYSUS2VZ_qY9BBJhZBhyphenhyphenJCmIehyphenhyphenQTTxCGfK3WaUUXYawopoBL6wKQc3B7NdbPpR7eOrz32-cVUFcVWZ1WEp4J1D2P4/s1600/auschwitz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="541" data-original-width="1000" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHIpo9LOL9GizofnT5DhZHONKEXmIqvZz3NZUIZnMxmbP8GTuZrJYSUS2VZ_qY9BBJhZBhyphenhyphenJCmIehyphenhyphenQTTxCGfK3WaUUXYawopoBL6wKQc3B7NdbPpR7eOrz32-cVUFcVWZ1WEp4J1D2P4/s400/auschwitz.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Photo credit: Auschwitz-Berkenau Memorial & Museum</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
A recent <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-47015184" target="_blank">study</a> showed that a shocking 1 in 20 adults in the UK do not believe that the Holocaust actually happened. The study also revealed that 1 in 12 adults in the UK either have no idea how many Jewish people were systematically murdered during the atrocities, or that they were prone to grossly under-estimating the figure.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It could be seen as easy to write this off as a failing of our education system, or to casually blame it on the fact that 74 years have passed since the liberation of Auschwitz. But neither excuse is good enough. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There are countless stories to be found, written or told by survivors of Nazi death camps. We have photographs of emaciated prisoners in their striped outfits. Mountains of shoes, pairs of glasses and even locks of human hair can be seen upon visiting Auschwitz itself. Then there is the fact that the Nazis themselves were detailed record keepers and despite their attempts to conceal what had been happening at their now notorious concentration camps, the world quickly discovered the grim truth, once the war was at an end.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In the face of such harrowing evidence, to deny that the Holocaust ever took place can only happen due to one of two things: sheer determination to keep one's head in the sand and avoid the worst of the world's horrors, or - far more frighteningly - a continuing, hateful level of anti-Semitism.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDxME18Wn3VknhCIzhdSDyZlMc9lDwGaT3HJEZAbAZajXil59whqeKERlSsoiGN-TEtcUZ3eHd_tJalfG4jn-dZhdpS0LG-4wM-XyXs6sLNwib5G43JJ5JRbvuV-tsgInz3Dv4VeIPoRE/s1600/holocaust-deniers-swastika.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="900" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDxME18Wn3VknhCIzhdSDyZlMc9lDwGaT3HJEZAbAZajXil59whqeKERlSsoiGN-TEtcUZ3eHd_tJalfG4jn-dZhdpS0LG-4wM-XyXs6sLNwib5G43JJ5JRbvuV-tsgInz3Dv4VeIPoRE/s400/holocaust-deniers-swastika.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Photo credit: Getty images</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Last January, The Guardian newspaper <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/society/2018/feb/01/antisemitic-incidents-in-uk-at-all-time-high" target="_blank">reported</a> that antisemitic incidents in the UK were at an all-time high. By last Summer, The Independent were <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/antisemitic-uk-figurers-racism-anti-jewish-crime-police-a8465031.html" target="_blank">reporting</a> that there had been over 100 antisemitic incidents per <i>month</i> in the UK, during the first half of 2018.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Last year also saw <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/attacks-muslims-uk-terror-islam-hate-crime-brexit-tell-mama-a8457996.html" target="_blank">a huge surge in street attacks on Muslim people in the UK</a>, as those whose bigoted views are usually kept under the radar become more and more emboldened, thanks to the likes of "Tommy Robinson" and his ilk. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Today, as we commemorate the 74th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, there are antisemites on Twitter, continuing to perpetuate hateful stereotypes. There are people writing similarly vile comments about Muslims. In fact, it doesn't take more than a couple of minutes of digging (and we're talking <i>shallow</i> levels of digging) on social media, to uncover not only antisemitism or Islamophobia, but racism, misogyny and homophobia being broadcast far more openly than ever before. Indeed, on one single page (a Twitter user who I have obviously reported for their despicable behaviour), I found not only Holocaust denial, but open racism against black people, homophobia <i>and</i> a vocal insistence that "hate speech" shouldn't be a crime.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCQZtJ2B5XUb3N96fHG9QAx13_U17bHueZram6dOeL8u0fThGNk2QG3Dx75e5P5TijAIbnvK48h4Eqy-LHUh1qzvb6TFfR7CRRGYSnYnSd7h9LUPnAoduB39zE0E5Az7FkUnpDi9-HSmY/s1600/Screen+Shot+2019-01-27+at+14.59.54.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="238" data-original-width="1230" height="121" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCQZtJ2B5XUb3N96fHG9QAx13_U17bHueZram6dOeL8u0fThGNk2QG3Dx75e5P5TijAIbnvK48h4Eqy-LHUh1qzvb6TFfR7CRRGYSnYnSd7h9LUPnAoduB39zE0E5Az7FkUnpDi9-HSmY/s640/Screen+Shot+2019-01-27+at+14.59.54.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
People with these views no longer feel they have to keep them quiet. Donald Trump's election in America - much like the UK's Brexit vote - undoubtedly emboldened far-right men and women, who suddenly believed that their opinions were no longer as unpalatable as they were once perceived. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And yes, there are people who probably voted for Donald Trump who are <i>not</i> inherently racist or misogynistic, just as there are people who voted for Brexit who are horrified by the rise in racist incidents since the referendum. The trouble is that those people are being drowned out by a louder, far nastier faction.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKcXxMyuIzhqt0MOkvUS3akWfu_5Ce_D4g-yr5ggJfmP113A1nMMhHf4_0JH69ham9lkrbn925f13rKpn8GbsCrT-qevrrNg92QQY5zBR8BdYNl4w-MfFePHU21YbpYMyeGDtcuLrXlZM/s1600/far+right+bastard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="736" data-original-width="968" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKcXxMyuIzhqt0MOkvUS3akWfu_5Ce_D4g-yr5ggJfmP113A1nMMhHf4_0JH69ham9lkrbn925f13rKpn8GbsCrT-qevrrNg92QQY5zBR8BdYNl4w-MfFePHU21YbpYMyeGDtcuLrXlZM/s400/far+right+bastard.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Getty images</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The holocaust did not start with concentration camps or gas chambers. It began with words. It began with hateful rhetoric, aimed at "othering" a section of society. Back then, it was predominantly aimed at the Jewish community. Nowadays, with the world seemingly so much smaller and with our words capable of reaching so many more people, it is not only Jews, but Muslims, the LGBT+ community and countless other sections of society who are targeted daily by messages of hatred.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We cannot be blind to the past. We cannot pretend that hateful ideology does not have the capacity to snowball into slaughter. We've seen it happen, not only at Auschwitz, but in terrorist atrocities and racially motivated murders in far more recent history.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
ANY message of hate is ridiculous, pathetic and undeserving of a place in the modern world. ANY individual, group or organisation that seeks to undermine or even harm other people, based on nothing but their ethnicity, faith (or lack thereof), gender or sexuality needs to have their platform removed in order to prevent such toxic messages from spreading further.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
No individual faith, ethnicity or sexuality is better than all of the others. The colour of one man's skin does not make him any more or less important than the person next to him. What an individual believes as part of their religious faith should not have any impact on anyone else's life. And who you or I choose to have a romantic or sexual relationship with is nobody's business but our own.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We are all humans, all capable of doing right and wrong. So let's stop turning a blind eye to the most horrific wrongs of the past and work together to prevent them from <i>ever</i> happening again.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
mrsmanicshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894116750061022896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3966316529291694099.post-73064185093059713642019-01-21T16:14:00.000+00:002019-01-21T16:14:34.542+00:00Blue Monday? Let Music Be Your Medicine!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCbYRAQd6VfHlYlTjkCTJGjppPxXY0HF0Sck4r2D7eqCBlhg_vth1QEWmwG-oI68vU27SJOjYA09EFSGMwHRSzaqarQni_lt4-txFMnAkvub_AsaI-ruoS49zSwVVITcDfMqfEepLdMKs/s1600/bluemonday1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="274" data-original-width="478" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCbYRAQd6VfHlYlTjkCTJGjppPxXY0HF0Sck4r2D7eqCBlhg_vth1QEWmwG-oI68vU27SJOjYA09EFSGMwHRSzaqarQni_lt4-txFMnAkvub_AsaI-ruoS49zSwVVITcDfMqfEepLdMKs/s320/bluemonday1.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Seeing as today is Blue Monday - supposedly the most depressing day of the year - I wanted to write a blog about one of the best ways to boost your emotional <i>and</i> physical well-being: Music.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
More and more studies are showing that music has benefits way beyond mere enjoyment. Listening to a song that we love can cheer us up when we're in a grump. Playing an emotional ballad when you've got a lot of pent-up feelings can be the catalyst to finally letting those feelings out (and it's fair to say that most of us start to feel at least a <i>little</i> better after a good cry).</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But it's not just <i>listening</i> to music that can have an effect on our deeper well-being. Recent <a href="https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/british-doctors-may-soon-prescribe-art-music-dance-singing-lessons-180970750/" target="_blank">reports</a> claim that doctors will soon be "prescribing" the arts to patients suffering from loneliness, mental health issues or even dementia, such is the positive impact that playing an instrument or singing in a group can have on a person's well-being.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTZ5-yobIvNft1tvOhoYU7D-GgDq9BBjLZAEuBkRXDnKgtDFBCtUWX1MTOXkXlXFPpeKLSfx5ynliGRLxI5GSInD9dUx5kjK3Uu1CyQq5_yTHW63h5c6kWUs8J7t2On14hLtAIsdWHLJU/s1600/bluemonday2.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="500" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTZ5-yobIvNft1tvOhoYU7D-GgDq9BBjLZAEuBkRXDnKgtDFBCtUWX1MTOXkXlXFPpeKLSfx5ynliGRLxI5GSInD9dUx5kjK3Uu1CyQq5_yTHW63h5c6kWUs8J7t2On14hLtAIsdWHLJU/s400/bluemonday2.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's a subject I passionately believe in. Music has always been an outlet for my emotions, as well as something comforting that I throw myself into when the world feels bleak. Breaking out a favourite album on a bad day is like snuggling down under a warm duvet; it just makes you feel better.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But passive listening can only go so far.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In the past, when life has been difficult, I've been known to resort to "YouTube karaoke." I could never explain it, but somehow, belting out a ballad had the power to unleash all the emotion I'd been bottling up, but in a way that felt positive and powerful. And once the sad songs were over with, I'd inevitably end up warbling away to some uptempo tunes. Without fail, I'd end my personal karaoke session feeling <i>much</i> better than I had when I started it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Nowadays, I sing with a chorus and I've learnt far more about how music works to boost your health - not just your mental health, but your physical well-being, too. Did you know, for example, that singing teaches you the correct way to <i>breathe</i>? Believe it or not, there <i>is</i> a wrong way. And for someone like me, who suffers with chronic asthma, it's pretty important that I know the difference.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Not only has my lung capacity improved since I joined said chorus, but my posture is definitely better, too. That's because one of the number one things you learn is that standing in a saggy, slumped position <i>won't</i> help you sound good when you sing. Once you've realised that you need a good posture for singing purposes, you frequently find yourself remembering your "singing stance" for when you're standing in a long queue, or doing anything that requires you to be on your feet for long periods.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwN9TokDeXSYNezQ0KUjvTb6c0pFcCytWASmyZAwjA-ES2dySO2Jgg6Hlet5XrmDMYq2r_9xhWD9dzevdAQ_ap850lGFHxr0FhPqY4WhYoLsc5hSFfUSO6VnabO3Y38FYodO1rG57_jlY/s1600/bluemonday3.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="500" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwN9TokDeXSYNezQ0KUjvTb6c0pFcCytWASmyZAwjA-ES2dySO2Jgg6Hlet5XrmDMYq2r_9xhWD9dzevdAQ_ap850lGFHxr0FhPqY4WhYoLsc5hSFfUSO6VnabO3Y38FYodO1rG57_jlY/s400/bluemonday3.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The mental health benefits were less unexpected; of <i>course</i> singing in harmony sounds amazing and therefore makes you <i>feel</i> amazing, because you're a part of it. Singing is a fantastic stress-reliever, too. It's hard to fret about family or worry about work when you're busy trying to nail that tricky key change.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And then there's the social aspect. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Joining any kind of group - be it a choir, a band or a sports team - means that you're getting out of the house (and hopefully out of your own head space) at least once a week and talking to other people. It gives you the opportunity to broaden your social circle and make new friends. Inevitability, that group mentality leads to a feeling of support and closeness; you are <i>part</i> of something. You are one of the family.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeW8QHuxLBPwszt1to1juweCQ1BRcZFf2frHgKiVGks_8zu0QS31OF3zENX0AGfgE5xBsKAH_lzbQC1cgBBsZw_f2VnsV7Y5JrxZGwyq4nloIKNoAfo-t-m6cYco_KeppG70qzctgekCk/s1600/bluemonday4.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="400" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeW8QHuxLBPwszt1to1juweCQ1BRcZFf2frHgKiVGks_8zu0QS31OF3zENX0AGfgE5xBsKAH_lzbQC1cgBBsZw_f2VnsV7Y5JrxZGwyq4nloIKNoAfo-t-m6cYco_KeppG70qzctgekCk/s320/bluemonday4.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Look, I'm not about to say that joining a choir or doing some karaoke is enough to <i>cure</i> depression (or any other illness) all by itself. Obviously, seeking professional medical attention when you're in any way unwell should be your first port of call. But if you're just looking for something to boost your well-being, there is a lot to be said for allowing music to be your medicine.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It certainly worked for me.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />mrsmanicshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894116750061022896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3966316529291694099.post-21489838423112144912019-01-17T18:47:00.000+00:002019-01-17T18:47:11.895+00:00Technology And I Are NOT Friends...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDtf_Vn_IeU1D7Kw8HiIlHHRq4Dbl33-G0qFbs9iPSaRXpcH1V8lWlQNwpg5sAuynyXcoWlvjH6MC4gXOiI9ld5Ti8TG6fIr_M02w2YDo3jUnx_c3TDLZrZHvg40kpQIboNn_yiWvJijs/s1600/technofail1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="500" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDtf_Vn_IeU1D7Kw8HiIlHHRq4Dbl33-G0qFbs9iPSaRXpcH1V8lWlQNwpg5sAuynyXcoWlvjH6MC4gXOiI9ld5Ti8TG6fIr_M02w2YDo3jUnx_c3TDLZrZHvg40kpQIboNn_yiWvJijs/s320/technofail1.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
If you're a regular reader of this blog, you'll know that I have a <a href="http://www.youtube.com/MrsManics" target="_blank">YouTube channel</a> I'm really passionate about. I'm very proud of the videos I make and the whole filming and editing process has become something I hugely enjoy.<br />
<br />
The trouble is, editing is done on a computer. And I am...the <i>least</i> technological person ever.<br />
<br />
EVER.<br />
<br />
When I use anything beyond a computer programme I'm <i>very</i> familiar with, I instantly become a ninety seven year old, utterly flummoxed by "new-fangled technology." I flail helplessly, mashing keys and wondering why the screen brightness has suddenly changed, but the programme itself isn't doing what I want it to. If I still used a desktop PC, I'd probably resort to sticking the mouse in my ear or something. That's the level of ineptitude we're talking.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilsDp0EBbJ3AUUQVyjAZfP2Vyg5fPnXhZQFjmfy1410627t-r4mIlR0e6g7K-YjhhU-rka0cRP-OsX1g7pVilbeFOtV7um7WvVcVzYE3PpSFPhT961tScaG6aI0Y3ej3B9e5un2IaGJ7M/s1600/technofail2.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="319" data-original-width="600" height="169" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilsDp0EBbJ3AUUQVyjAZfP2Vyg5fPnXhZQFjmfy1410627t-r4mIlR0e6g7K-YjhhU-rka0cRP-OsX1g7pVilbeFOtV7um7WvVcVzYE3PpSFPhT961tScaG6aI0Y3ej3B9e5un2IaGJ7M/s320/technofail2.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And so, for someone as technologically daft as I am, it's quite a wonder that I've taught myself to use Final Cut Pro at <i>all</i>. That I can edit green screen sketches without somehow managing to accidentally force my MacBook into some kind of bizarre <i>un</i>safe mode is a constant surprise. In fact, editing is usually a delight.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Until earlier this week.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You see, I have a problem with my MacBook, in that it has the memory of a goldfish. It fills up quicker than an Amazon shopping basket on Black Friday. I only have to blink at my laptop and it responds by telling me I've run out of disk storage.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So, naturally, I have a couple of external hard drives that come in very handy. And often, when I'm editing a video, I create a library of files that saves directly to an external drive, in order to save space on the laptop itself. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But sometimes... I <i>don't</i>. Sometimes, if I'm a bit sleepy, in a rush to crack on with editing or just having a very typically <i>Emma</i> day, I just import lots of files onto my MacBook, create a library and expect it to cope.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And this week, it did <i>not</i>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAN6sezM9o-_fF6JEJKuLOw8O61-Szx1w4_Q7b395zNJ86faK8Zmna7M2SHTA8uEqFj5eggoePLe-AywBiCNyWVCwICPwbOvP64PRF32mOD8D-Umx9WS6r36ZgXTke19F01PZmifGXHhE/s1600/technofail3.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="205" data-original-width="220" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAN6sezM9o-_fF6JEJKuLOw8O61-Szx1w4_Q7b395zNJ86faK8Zmna7M2SHTA8uEqFj5eggoePLe-AywBiCNyWVCwICPwbOvP64PRF32mOD8D-Umx9WS6r36ZgXTke19F01PZmifGXHhE/s320/technofail3.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I can't accurately describe the frustration of being three quarters of the way through editing a video, when your computer suddenly says <i>no. </i>I would imagine it's a similar sensation to the one you'd get if you'd stayed in all day, waiting for a very important call, only for the phone to finally ring and for you to answer it and realise it's just someone wanting to check if you've been mis-sold PPI.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There I was, with probably three hours of editing time under my belt and the finish line starting to creep into sight, when that familiar error message popped up, to tell me that my laptop's teensy, tiny memory was, much like me after Christmas dinner, simply too full to be of any use.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In a moment of what I assumed simply <i>must</i> be genius (spoiler: it was <i>not</i>), I decided that there was an obvious and quick solution to this problem. I'd merely transfer the folder with all the video files onto my external hard drive and send the Final Cut Pro library to the external drive, too. Once it was all on there, I could delete it from my laptop and carry on editing like a freaking <i>boss</i>. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So, that, dear reader, is exactly what I did. Except somewhere between my laptop and the external hard drive, the library <i>and</i> the folder of video files decided to go off on a beautiful adventure, together. Because only <i>after</i> I'd deleted them from the laptop, did I realise that despite the "sending items to external hard drive" message that had popped up on screen, the files had most certainly <i>not</i> completed their journey. They had vanished.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now, yes. A tech savvy person would have double and probably <i>triple</i> checked that the files <i>were</i> on the external hard drive before she deleted them from her laptop, but... I am not that person. And I was three hours into an editing session and therefore my eyes were sore and I wasn't thinking like a normal human, anymore. Editing turns you into a strange zombie who notices the sounds your lips make when they slap together too harshly on a syllable. It doesn't make you alert to the very real dangers of DATA LOSS.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6mtC-yZIJoVh7prDhQFnKBls2tM7-Uwq3Oium8TRjmQuvmk0smArET2JP0SIoffOJxQMpXUOCEhZyA5fRwzjNFghWxWG-IvicVK9zydLUc6HRe9c7KOtThx9qXXbLHeEIazu40hdiBKQ/s1600/technofail4.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="350" height="342" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6mtC-yZIJoVh7prDhQFnKBls2tM7-Uwq3Oium8TRjmQuvmk0smArET2JP0SIoffOJxQMpXUOCEhZyA5fRwzjNFghWxWG-IvicVK9zydLUc6HRe9c7KOtThx9qXXbLHeEIazu40hdiBKQ/s400/technofail4.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My reaction was obviously typically understated. I pulled the kind of distressed faces that some would consider Oscar-worthy. I got <i>very</i> creative with my insults, whilst swearing at both myself <i>and</i> the laptop. I <i>might</i> have cried.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Believe me when I say that nothing shows you how much of a technological disaster area you are, quite like having to sort out something like this. The simple answers - check that it's not in the trash, try to restore from a back up etc - were there in my head (and didn't work, irritatingly), but anything beyond that was like trying to carve an elegant swan out of a lump of rapidly melting butter. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Many questions were asked of Google, and the type of question became more frantic as time passed. I went from "how to recover accidentally deleted files" to "SOFTWARE DOWNLOAD FOR IDIOTS WHO RUIN THEIR OWN LIVES" at a frighteningly fast pace.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And of course, then I had to navigate a whole heap of slightly dodgy downloads and free trials that let you <i>look</i> at your lost files, but then wanted ninety bazillion pounds to let you have them back again.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I went to bed at gone midnight, by which time I had lost any semblance of remaining sanity, along with all the files I'd deleted.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRsjov2vK3VwtruNUFQCp_3P1M5dG86abh2VyBGXDBgzsW9BMKqIs5Vv1eP_NML98bauiBWsxji-jKMHYggPEcvZD-TcIQory364oV2HygcCl2QjAY4PL-EfzLJPU-KOkCXWSyfErlgog/s1600/technofail5.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="145" data-original-width="245" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRsjov2vK3VwtruNUFQCp_3P1M5dG86abh2VyBGXDBgzsW9BMKqIs5Vv1eP_NML98bauiBWsxji-jKMHYggPEcvZD-TcIQory364oV2HygcCl2QjAY4PL-EfzLJPU-KOkCXWSyfErlgog/s400/technofail5.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Thankfully, however, the solution came to me not so much in a dream, but in a fevered state of panic at around 3am. I remembered I'd once recovered files lost from my camera's SD card using a programme I'd downloaded off the internet. <i>Surely</i>, I could recover <i>these</i> files from my SD card, too?!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Yes, naturally I'd deleted them off the SD card, too. Shut up. They were on my laptop <i>and</i> supposedly my external hard drive. They were meant to be SAFE.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Anyway, long story short, the following day, I managed to download three separate free trials for programmes that each let me recover a few of the files I needed back. My reaction upon actually being able to start editing again (admittedly from scratch, which was a pain) was like something more commonly seen on one of those "People's Postcode Lottery" adverts. I practically fell to my knees and promised my soul to the IT community in general.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Look, the moral of this story is twofold: 1) SAVE STUFF REGULARLY AND BACK IT UP TO MULTIPLE DEVICES. 2) Don't trust me with anything technological. Seriously, it's for your own good.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Mine, too.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />mrsmanicshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894116750061022896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3966316529291694099.post-10215848377462593562019-01-09T17:32:00.003+00:002019-01-09T17:32:23.620+00:002019 Blog Plans!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimkM2P99ILpwNOhqFA6kptxPC2DBv2N4BvGq_qt_l26yJQ_24IvsMBMIKoMXVkUW2AKNXPZehtd2l0j5qtuwkvYfb0jXFt8bzrOd206A9z0wNL35_SKC87Nv9-wnD6y4ttKah-i0zlPNU/s1600/plans1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="332" data-original-width="330" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimkM2P99ILpwNOhqFA6kptxPC2DBv2N4BvGq_qt_l26yJQ_24IvsMBMIKoMXVkUW2AKNXPZehtd2l0j5qtuwkvYfb0jXFt8bzrOd206A9z0wNL35_SKC87Nv9-wnD6y4ttKah-i0zlPNU/s320/plans1.gif" width="318" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
So, here we are in a fresh, new year and if you're particularly eagle-eyed, you may have noticed that this blog also has a fresh, new header. Don't worry, I won't be offended if you <i>didn't</i> notice, but... Well, I'm rather pleased with it, despite my usual lack of design ability.<br />
<br />
The main reason I figured the header needed a spruce up was the fact that the old one was technically out of date. It still suggested that there would be a free bedtime story for children, released right here every Wednesday at 6pm. And if you're a regular reader, you'll know that that's no longer true.<br />
<br />
One of the reasons I decided to stop writing the weekly bedtime stories was because I was spending so much time planning them in advance and writing them in bulk, I wasn't finding time to blog about anything <i>else</i>. What with having a day job and a YouTube channel to maintain, writing the stories was becoming the only thing I did on this site and I missed the frequency with which I used to be able to write about anything that took my fancy. <br />
<br />
I was also stressing about the incongruous nature of there being a sweet bedtime story nestled right beside an angry blog piece about, for example, romanticised abuse in fiction. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizANJK1AlYX4TYqol3aLEI8GkX3uO6K4UG2elVITZMHpNig0TaZDYMgRMCUup7GbKzvFSB79KqBJonPpF4xC6wg8XCJIoKQEJsfH45Mzwn_JRuwt3xcZCwYXxeS9cvEDlEthXsMoa6TIo/s1600/plans2.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="272" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizANJK1AlYX4TYqol3aLEI8GkX3uO6K4UG2elVITZMHpNig0TaZDYMgRMCUup7GbKzvFSB79KqBJonPpF4xC6wg8XCJIoKQEJsfH45Mzwn_JRuwt3xcZCwYXxeS9cvEDlEthXsMoa6TIo/s320/plans2.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For those reasons (and a few more besides), I called a halt to the weekly bedtime story feature in the hope that I would find the time to write something else, instead. A rather fanciful part of my brain is still keen on the idea of finally getting around to writing that difficult second novel, but if I can make do with posting regularly on this blog - and getting back to writing about a whole variety of different things - then I'll be satisfied.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So, in 2019, you can expect to see more of me on this blog. No, no... Not like <i>that</i>. I've not taken to posting nude selfies or anything. Nobody wants that, believe me. But you can expect to see more rants, more opinion pieces, more random posts about whatever has popped into my head that day and, as ever, plenty of personal anecdotes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The Rambling Curl will be rambling in all directions, this year. I'm rather excited to get started!</div>
<br />mrsmanicshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894116750061022896noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3966316529291694099.post-61153488689010324922018-12-26T18:00:00.000+00:002018-12-26T18:00:01.391+00:00Bedtime Story (26/12/2018)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBCxGqQEcAfBxNcEpjki_k-nBAni-YJ3KMTPyWZ-1NR6lV4YprQVfW-cpQKsAsMrlmPD1Jd_p54NbC3t4kDffkRD1lqcyrUo5gtmPfWJLqBSrXBtq0J810WCqOpZM8cfPOytuOKXkZgcI/s1600/growinup.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="601" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBCxGqQEcAfBxNcEpjki_k-nBAni-YJ3KMTPyWZ-1NR6lV4YprQVfW-cpQKsAsMrlmPD1Jd_p54NbC3t4kDffkRD1lqcyrUo5gtmPfWJLqBSrXBtq0J810WCqOpZM8cfPOytuOKXkZgcI/s320/growinup.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>So, here we are - the last of the bedtime stories! I won't say the last <b>ever</b>, in case the feature returns someday, but certainly the last for now.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>What else could I end on, but a story about growing up?!</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>There is, of course, one final podcast for you to <a href="http://theramblingcurlweeklybedtimestory.libsyn.com/bedtime-story-26122018" target="_blank">listen</a> to, should you prefer.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>What Will I Be?</u></b></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>As I lie, tucked up in bed,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>It's unbelievable to think</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>This year is almost over,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>It's flown by in a blink.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>I wonder what next year will bring?</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>How much taller will I grow?</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>I wonder what new things I'll do?</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>I just can't wait to know!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>And as the years keep passing,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>I wonder who I'll be.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>This world has so much to show</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>A curious child like me.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>I'd love to explore new places,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>To travel across land and sea.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Perhaps the life of an explorer</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Will be the life for me.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Or maybe I'll stay close to home,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>With my friends and family near.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>I know I could go anywhere,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>But I do quite like it here.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Perhaps one day I'll have a house</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>And a family of my own.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Maybe that's waiting for me,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>One day when I am grown.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>I wonder what job I might do?</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>There's no dream that's out of reach.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>I could be a chef or doctor,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>I could fight fires or teach.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>And I wonder what I'll look like,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>When I'm finally finished growing.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Maybe I'll be very tall,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Or have hair that's long and flowing.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>I could be anything I choose,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Go anywhere I like.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>I only have to wait</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>For inspiration to strike!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>But first, there's growing up to do,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>That's very clear to me.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>So, I'll wait a while longer</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>To find out what I'll be.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>THE END</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
mrsmanicshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894116750061022896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3966316529291694099.post-49783505618188555772018-12-19T18:00:00.000+00:002018-12-19T18:00:06.386+00:00Bedtime Story (19/12/2018)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE8cv-MTMwGCu2mu02wqADmz0qj0Ixq8g_tPN62K_-fuNZtT3AQataU59zhTV_w2xTPe4VgL3dOzmLgLRQUC_Q5TjN03R5MUKbCqj42Yv7qdzMDld0EL8xMtunAyZwhuLkYNHphJpOnIg/s1600/sprouts.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="180" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE8cv-MTMwGCu2mu02wqADmz0qj0Ixq8g_tPN62K_-fuNZtT3AQataU59zhTV_w2xTPe4VgL3dOzmLgLRQUC_Q5TjN03R5MUKbCqj42Yv7qdzMDld0EL8xMtunAyZwhuLkYNHphJpOnIg/s1600/sprouts.gif" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I freely admit that I LOVE sprouts. I've never really understood their position as the seemingly least liked part of a Christmas dinner. So, this story is about learning to love the humble sprout.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Click <a href="http://theramblingcurlweeklybedtimestory.libsyn.com/bedtime-story-19122018" target="_blank">here</a> to listen to this story as a podcast.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><u>Sprouts!</u></b></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>I love the turkey on Christmas Day</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>And please send plenty of carrots my way!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Crispy roast potatoes, I love those, too.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>And why have one stuffing ball, when you can have two?</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>But there's one thing on my plate that makes me shout:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>I simply cannot eat my sprouts!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>I really like the gravy and sauce.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>The pigs-in-blankets are delicious, of course!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>My sister has nut-loaf and I like that, too.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>And sweet potatoes? I'll eat a few!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>But there's one thing I always make a fuss about:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Please, don't make me eat my sprouts!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>They're round and small and sickly green.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>The taste, I'm sure, is quite obscene!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>They smell as though they should be binned</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>And they always give my grandpa wind!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>So, unless you want a scene in this house,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>I suggest you don't cook any sprouts!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Nan boils them for ages until they turn to mush.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Dad likes them crunchy, as though cooked in a rush.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Whenever I see them, piled high in a bowl,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>I feel a sinking sensation, deep in my soul.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>You see, in my mind, there is really no doubt:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>I could never, ever eat a sprout.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>But this year, a sight sent my heart a-flutter:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Mum in the kitchen, frying sprouts in butter!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>She added some bacon into the pan</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>It all smelt delicious - well, as much as sprouts can.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>And when to the table she carried them out,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>I wondered: is this the year that I try a sprout?!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Whilst the grown-ups pulled crackers and started to talk,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>I gently prodded one sprout with my fork.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Ensuring I also added some bacon bits,</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>I slowly lifted it up to my lips...</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Well, all I can say is it's heaven in my mouth!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>The best part of Christmas dinner is sprouts!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Never again will I shake my head</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>And say I don't like something without trying it, instead.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>I've learned a lesson the delicious way.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>Now my love of sprouts is here to stay!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>So listen up, as I give a delighted shout:</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i>"Merry Christmas to all, now eat up your sprouts!"</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>THE END</i></div>
mrsmanicshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894116750061022896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3966316529291694099.post-7941600936693401122018-12-12T18:00:00.000+00:002018-12-12T18:00:05.409+00:00Bedtime Story (12/12/2018)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4V97n3QYrFrVRaIMikfzYkcabHYg4h6wTp_qUGEtrzc8-lLSV0nxe1YI0Z4GRfZv_SbFiMQoEdzMDhlj5XHcQ1wqCNWiNZ2hXYr_Wfc-CfiY8kO9U62H_iILyZOZGbFvhQMqtcB7ib6c/s1600/christmas+gift+.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="279" data-original-width="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4V97n3QYrFrVRaIMikfzYkcabHYg4h6wTp_qUGEtrzc8-lLSV0nxe1YI0Z4GRfZv_SbFiMQoEdzMDhlj5XHcQ1wqCNWiNZ2hXYr_Wfc-CfiY8kO9U62H_iILyZOZGbFvhQMqtcB7ib6c/s1600/christmas+gift+.gif" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Homemade gifts have a special place in my heart. I love receiving something that someone has made for me and whilst I'm not the best when it comes to creative endeavours, this year I <b>have</b> made something for someone! This story is for everyone who has ever made a gift themselves, or who treasures a handmade present from a loved one.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>To listen to this story as a podcast, click <a href="http://theramblingcurlweeklybedtimestory.libsyn.com/bedtime-story-12122018" target="_blank">here.</a></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><u>The Homemade Christmas Presents</u></b></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Lola had covered the dining room table with everything she would need. Scattered across the surface were bottles of glue, pots of glitter, sheets of paper and card, paints, pens, ribbons, beads and a whole lot more besides.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Dad frowned over the top of his newspaper. "What on Earth are you doing?"</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Lola smiled. "This year, I'm going to make you and Mum a special homemade present to give you on Christmas Day." She leaned forwards dramatically, trying to hide everything she'd gathered on the table. "You're not allowed to look," she ordered. "Or it'll spoil the surprise!"</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Dad chuckled to himself and returned to his reading, leaving Lola to get started. She hadn't <i>quite</i> decided what to make yet, but she knew that it should be <i>sparkly</i>. It was Christmas, after all! Drumming her fingers on the table, Lola thought about the picture Mum kept stuck to the fridge. It was of Mum, Dad, Lola and Branson the dog, all sitting at a picnic table in the sunshine. Lola decided she'd make a frame for it.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Reaching across the table, Lola grabbed a sheet of brightly coloured card. She'd never made a photo frame before, but she guessed it couldn't be <i>too</i> hard. All she needed to do was put some decorations around the edge of the card and then stick the photo in the middle, didn't she? Mum would definitely notice the picture was gone from the fridge, but Lola was sure she would be pleased on Christmas Day, when she saw it looking <i>really</i> special.<br />
<br />
Lola opened a bottle of glue and tried to gently squeeze some onto the edge of her card. It spurted across the whole sheet, leaving it sticky and wet. Lola frowned. That <i>wasn't</i> meant to happen! Using her fingers, she tried to wipe the glue away, but that just made her hands all sticky, too. Besides, the more Lola wiped, the thinner the card seemed to be getting. Before long, a small hole had appeared right in the middle.<br />
<br />
Lola let out a long sigh. This wasn't quite going to plan. Not that she'd <i>had</i> a plan...<br />
<br />
After a minute or two of frustration, Lola decided to carry on as best she could. She grabbed a pot of bright pink glitter and pulled off the lid. With a flash of colour, the glitter exploded from the pot and rained down onto the table, the card, Lola and everything else in sight.<br />
<br />
"Is everything okay back there?" Dad called, putting down his newspaper again.<br />
<br />
"Yes, Dad," Lola called, pulling a face as she desperately tried to sweep all of the glitter back into the pot. It stuck to her gluey fingers, leaving them pink and sparkly.<br />
<br />
Lola looked down at her photo frame. It looked okay; maybe a bit dog-eared and overly glittery, but she could rescue that, she was sure.<br />
<br />
Lola leaned across the table to take a handful of beads. As she leaned over the frame she was decorating, her clothes stuck to the glue. To Lola's horror, her jumper was covered in glitter and the frame she'd been working on had lots of bright red fluff all over it.<br />
<br />
Lola groaned as she tried to pick the fluff off the frame, but all she succeeded in doing was making her hands even <i>more</i> glittery than before. She let out a sigh. "Fine," she said to herself. "It'll be a glittery and also <i>fluffy </i>photo frame."<br />
<br />
She began to add a little more glue, so that she could stick beads onto the frame, but the card was now wearing ever so thin and soon, there was so much glue around the edges that the whole thing began to bend. Worse still, the glitter Lola had poured on earlier was starting to drip all over the place as the glue ran.<br />
<br />
Lola started trying to mop up the glue with a sheet of kitchen roll, but it stuck to the glue and soon her photo frame was a soggy, slightly ripped mess of glitter, fluff and bits of kitchen roll, plus one or two stray beads. "This is rubbish," Lola sighed. "I'll paint a picture, instead."<br />
<br />
She leaned over to grab a bottle of paint, but as she squeezed the bottle, paint spurted out all over the photo frame. It was the final straw. Lola held her head in her hands and stuck out her lower lip.<br />
<br />
"Oh," Dad said, as he appeared behind her. "You've made a... Um... It's a..."<br />
<br />
Lola rolled her eyes. "You weren't supposed to see it until Christmas Day," she tutted. "It was going to be a photo frame," she added, with a sigh. "But it's no good."<br />
<br />
Dad shook his head. "I don't agree," he told her. "I think it's great! And your mum will <i>really</i> love it."<br />
<br />
Lola frowned. "But it's all messy and there's not a nice, clean space for a photo! It looks like I've just chucked a load of paint, glue and glitter at the page and then got my clothes and a load of kitchen roll stuck to it. Which... I sort of... <i>Did</i>."<br />
<br />
Dad chuckled. "But when you stick a photo in the middle, none of that will matter," he said. "It'll just look like funky decorations around the sides. And your mum will know that you made something special, all by yourself."<br />
<br />
"I was going to use that photo we took in the summer," Lola explained. "The one Mum keeps stuck to the fridge. I know she loves it."<br />
<br />
Dad disappeared into the kitchen and came back with the photograph in his hand. He gently stuck it in the centre of Lola's handmade photo frame. "There," he said, stepping back. "It looks brilliant."<br />
<br />
Lola gazed at the photo frame and then back at her dad's broad smile. The frame was still messy and it didn't look anything like Lola had imagined it would, but her dad didn't seem to care. Lola wrinkled her nose. "Don't you think it should be prettier? Or at least <i>neater</i>?"<br />
<br />
Dad shook his head. "I think it's perfect as it is," he insisted. "Because it was made with love. That's all that matters, Lola. You wanted to do something nice and you put a lot of thought into it. The very best Christmas presents aren't necessarily the ones that cost a lot of money. They're the ones that show how much someone cares." He smiled at Lola. "I think this will be your mum's favourite present, this year."<br />
<br />
Lola beamed up at him. "Thanks for making me feel better," she whispered.<br />
<br />
When the frame was dry, Dad helped Lola carefully wrap it in sparkly paper and together, they placed it underneath the Christmas tree. Lola knew that it wasn't the best photo frame in the world, but she also knew that that didn't matter.<br />
<br />
You wouldn't be able to find another photo frame like it, even if you searched all over town. Lola's photo frame was handmade with love. And that made it <i>extra</i> special.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
THE END</div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
mrsmanicshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894116750061022896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3966316529291694099.post-12578174600876830382018-12-05T18:00:00.000+00:002018-12-05T18:00:01.901+00:00Bedtime Story (5/12/2018)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpoTSeQKvZv0vtNIFFisB8unSY1Mhl9VmJWrQgEWB5PbOkDe4yA9iBfCchQ3ONZZeL8VKTS4lQYRWIJ241h8mP8NjJqbglHMjMPC91Qs3hZESVnWf5kMsti1A2_LTJ6qwXo43exWHE7zA/s1600/breaking-news-1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="350" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpoTSeQKvZv0vtNIFFisB8unSY1Mhl9VmJWrQgEWB5PbOkDe4yA9iBfCchQ3ONZZeL8VKTS4lQYRWIJ241h8mP8NjJqbglHMjMPC91Qs3hZESVnWf5kMsti1A2_LTJ6qwXo43exWHE7zA/s320/breaking-news-1.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>As is tradition on this blog, I'll be writing some Christmas themed bedtime stories, this month! However, before we get into the first one, I would like to make a small announcement.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>For over three and a half years, I've been writing weekly bedtime stories. These stories have been published here for free and there is now a full list of hundreds to share with the children in your life. Whilst I've enjoyed creating these stories, it has, at times, been difficult to maintain a level of originality and to ensure that new stories are ready to go up each week. Finding time to podcast the stories as well, in order to make them more accessible, has also been challenging, given that this blog is something I maintain as a hobby, alongside my day job, my YouTube channel, running an abuse-awareness campaign account on Twitter, being in charge of social media for the chorus I sing with and of course, practising for said chorus. Add to that the fact that I would like to be writing more books and a wider range of blog posts and you might understand just how much effort goes into ensuring that the bedtime story feature goes live each week without fail. </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>For these reasons, I have decided that, as of January 2019, the bedtime story feature will be going on an indefinite hiatus. I'm referring to it as a "hiatus," rather than saying the feature will stop and never return, as I don't want to rule that out entirely. However, for the foreseeable future, my goal is to find time to write more blog posts and to potentially begin working on a new book, whilst also trying to grow my YouTube channel and begin working to improve my directing skills (did I mention I'm also Assistant Director of the chorus I sing with?!). With all of that taking priority, I don't see myself finding the time to keep up with the bedtime story feature, as the very last thing I want to do is to rush the process and create stories that are not up to the usual standard I pride myself on.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I'd like to thank everyone who has shared the weekly bedtime stories with the little ones in their lives, over the last almost four years. The bedtime stories page will remain up on this blog and therefore the stories can still be enjoyed for years to come. I also hope you will enjoy these last few, festive additions and that you'll continue to visit this blog, to see what I get up to next!</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>With that out of the way, let's get on with the story! As usual, it's also available as a <a href="http://theramblingcurlweeklybedtimestory.libsyn.com/bedtime-story-5122018" target="_blank">podcast.</a></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2lLXLTEhWpcQizptTH0AWMBYnanUmMMCB_EGa4-_0kZCx2hO4yjxScN5M9-qI9WM7GxNIXs8PLl4Vd6y-RcScbOaXFvn_czawSDTJvyWZDEYdJDJZFNanbWRuCDGiuBpsqInu9YqJlnY/s1600/christmastree.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="360" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2lLXLTEhWpcQizptTH0AWMBYnanUmMMCB_EGa4-_0kZCx2hO4yjxScN5M9-qI9WM7GxNIXs8PLl4Vd6y-RcScbOaXFvn_czawSDTJvyWZDEYdJDJZFNanbWRuCDGiuBpsqInu9YqJlnY/s320/christmastree.gif" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i><u>"What Shall We Hang On The Christmas Tree?!"</u></i></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i><u><br /></u></i></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i><u><br /></u></i></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>The Christmas tree was standing tall,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Green and lush and proud.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Mum handed decorations to all;</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Shiny baubles, gold and round.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>But "what are these?" Young Florence asked,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Looking ready to make a fuss.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"These round things don't mean anything!</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>We should hang something special to us!"</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Her brothers frowned and scratched their heads.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Whatever did young Flo mean?</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"Our Christmas isn't baubles and stars," Flo said.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"It's a very different scene."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"We should hang excited faces,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Hardly able to sleep.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>And piles of torn off wrapping paper,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Lying crumpled in a heap."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Her brothers gathered closer:</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"We could make our own!" They cried.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"Pictures of what Christmas is to us;</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Festive films, cocoa and mince pies!"</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>And so the family set to work,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>creating decorations to hang.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Laughter rang out through the house,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>As from each mind an idea sprang.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"I'll draw my cosy pyjamas,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>I wear each year on Christmas Eve.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>The ones with Santa's sleigh on the front,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>And reindeer flying up the sleeves!"</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"Then I'll draw Bobby at dinner,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>refusing to eat any sprouts,"</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Florence said with a giggle.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"Those Memories are what Christmas is about."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Her brothers laughed and nodded.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"I'll draw Dad with the Christmas lights,"</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Bobby replied, with a chuckle.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"They always get into a fight!"</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"Draw the dog chasing wrapping paper,"</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Flo's brother, Ben, exclaimed.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"Or the photo of Dad eating turkey at midnight!</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>The one Mum printed out and had framed!"</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>They all sat around the table,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Sharing memories from Christmases past.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>With each joyful memory they laughed and smiled,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Hardly believing that time flew so fast.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"Remember when Ben got a ping pong set</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>And the ball flew across the room?</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>It knocked over a flower pot</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>And Mum just laughed and gave Ben a broom!"</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>They thought back over presents</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>And family games they'd all played.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>They remembered delicious Christmas dinners</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>At a table all festively laid.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Christmas cracker jokes that made them groan,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Cosy evenings with a warm, glowing fire.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>The three children remembered it all</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>And their smiles grew wider and wider.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"This is what Christmas is all about,"</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Flo said, "not baubles on a tree.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>But memories shared and fun to be had,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>With your best friends and your family."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>And together they hung all their pictures</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>On the Christmas tree with pride.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Seeing all of their happy, festive memories</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Made each of them feel warm inside.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"We'll add the baubles as well though,"</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Flo said, grinning from ear to ear.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"Because decorating the tree together</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Can be a memory we make <b>this</b> year."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>It really was the prettiest tree;</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Probably the family's best ever!</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>But better than any decoration</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Was the joy of just being together.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>THE END</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
mrsmanicshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894116750061022896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3966316529291694099.post-58472578936539728032018-11-28T18:00:00.000+00:002018-11-28T18:00:02.608+00:00Bedtime Story (28/11/2018)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6oyBgzukvWm4tUVHeRCUUN5g9tu0q7aDdG0_QMq8xrR6TZRjN3sgqXxyOpwykqa8ndH77uqMMRZ0IAq91eTUDW7nooxxqu8xKK78DLldaPBX_0p8XpJwjZ12e-E-piSWN2zgt4jtEWmk/s1600/best+friends.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="140" data-original-width="245" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6oyBgzukvWm4tUVHeRCUUN5g9tu0q7aDdG0_QMq8xrR6TZRjN3sgqXxyOpwykqa8ndH77uqMMRZ0IAq91eTUDW7nooxxqu8xKK78DLldaPBX_0p8XpJwjZ12e-E-piSWN2zgt4jtEWmk/s320/best+friends.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Sometimes, I am guilty of being a bit needy and perhaps trying too hard to show people what they mean to me. I think it's almost certainly because of situations I've found myself in, over the years, where someone I've wrongly thought of as my "best friend" has turned out to be anything but. This story is all about friendship, love and letting someone know you care. </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>If you would prefer to listen to this story, it is also available as a <a href="http://theramblingcurlweeklybedtimestory.libsyn.com/bedtime-story-28112018" target="_blank">podcast</a>.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i><u>Melanie's 'Best Friend' Mission</u></i></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i><u><br /></u></i></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
All weekend, Melanie had been up in her room, working on a top secret project. She hadn't gone to play at the park with her older brothers. She hadn't watched any of her favourite TV shows. She was only interested in finishing what she was working on. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Finally, on Monday morning, as Mum was getting everyone ready for school, Melanie emerged with her project completed. In her hands, she held a rather misshapen scarf. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"Remember when Nan said she was going to teach me to knit?" Melanie beamed, holding the scarf up for approval. "Well, I practised and practised and I've made Willow a scarf. She always gets cold, this time of year and I wanted her to have something to keep her warm, because she's my best friend."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Nobody mentioned the holes in the scarf. Nobody mentioned that it was wider at one end, or slightly frayed at the edges. Everyone told Melanie what a lovely thing she'd done.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
At school, Willow grinned when she saw the scarf. "I can't believe you made this all by yourself," she exclaimed, wrapping it carefully around her neck. "Thank you!" </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Willow wore the scarf at play time. She and Melanie played together just as they always did. But, as they walked back to the classroom, after the bell rang, Willow noticed that one end of the scarf was stuck in the zip of her coat. Even though she tried her hardest to get it out gently, before long, the scarf began to unravel. All of Melanie's hard work was undone.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"I'm <i>so</i> sorry," Willow sighed. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Melanie shook her head. "No, <i>I'm</i> sorry," she insisted. "I didn't make it strong enough. It wasn't very good." She stared at her feet. "I just wanted you to have something nice to keep you warm. I wanted to show you how much you mean to me, but I couldn't even knit a simple scarf..."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Willow opened her mouth to reply, but Melanie trudged away, taking her seat in the classroom without another word.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Their teacher handed out thread and some brightly coloured beads. "We're going to practise threading and making patterns," she announced. "You can make a necklace, a bracelet or anything you like, as long as you remember to stick to a pattern."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Melanie's eyes widened. "I know how to make it up to you!" She gasped, turning to Willow. "I'll make you a necklace! Then you'll know how special you are to me!" </div>
<br />
"You don't have to make it up to me," Willow insisted, but Melanie was already scooping up all the purple and green beads, because she knew those were Willow's favourite colours. Willow smiled. "Okay, well I'll make <i>you</i> a necklace and we can swap at the end."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For the rest of the lesson, the girls worked hard on their necklaces. Just before lunchtime, their teacher told them it was time to finish up, so everyone began carefully tying knots in their thread. Willow tied her thread and held up a pretty, pink and blue necklace. "Here you are!" She grinned. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Melanie was struggling to tie her thread into a knot. It kept slipping through her fingers, somehow. The more she tried, the more flustered she became. Before she knew what was happening, the thread slipped out of her grasp once more and the beads came sliding off, scattering all over the table. "No!" Melanie cried, clutching at the beads as they rolled away. "I promised you a necklace," she whimpered, avoiding Willow's gaze. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Willow held out the necklace she'd made. "Do you want to wear the one I made you?"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"I don't deserve it," Melanie replied. "I'm such a rubbish best friend. All I wanted to do was show you how much you mean to me, but I can't, because I'm not good at <i>anything</i>."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"That's not true!" Willow cried, but Melanie had already darted out of the classroom.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Willow finally caught up with Melanie in the hall, queuing up for lunch. "Please don't be upset," she urged. "You don't have to do anything special to prove that you're my friend."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"But you do so much for <i>me</i>," Melanie insisted. "I just want to show you what it means to me." She blinked suddenly, reading the dinner menu on the wall. "I know! They have strawberry mousse for pudding, today. I can get one for you, it's your favourite!"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Willow frowned. "But you don't <i>like</i> strawberry mousse," she reminded her. "And I can just get my own. You can get a pudding you <i>do</i> like!"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"But if I get a pudding I <i>don't</i> like and give it to <i>you</i>, you can have two!" Melanie replied. "And then you'll know that I really care about you and it'll make up for the scarf and the necklace."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Before Willow could stop her, Melanie had placed a strawberry mousse onto a tray and had handed over her dinner money.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"There!" Melanie beamed. "That's to show you that you're my best friend!" She turned to carry her tray to a table, but didn't notice another child standing close by. With a gasp, Melanie tripped, dropping her lunch tray onto the floor and sending its contents flying across the hall.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"Melanie!" Willow shrieked. "Are you alright?!"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Melanie's eyes streamed with tears. "I just keep getting everything wrong!" With a sob, she ran out of the hall.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It took Willow a while to find Melanie. Eventually, she spotted her sitting, huddled beneath her coat, in the cloakroom outside their class. "What are you doing here?" She asked, sitting beside her. "Come back and have some lunch. You must be <i>starving</i>!"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"I dropped my lunch all over the floor, remember?" Melanie sniffed. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"You can share mine," Willow promised. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Melanie shook her head. "You're always doing nice things for me," she sighed. "And I tried <i>so</i> hard to do something to show you how grateful I am and I just... I make a mess, every time."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Willow smiled. "I <i>know</i> you're grateful," she insisted. "But I'm not your friend just so that you'll feel like you have to do nice things for me, you know. I don't expect you to make presents for me, or go without pudding just so that I can have two!"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"But I just want you to know how much you mean to me," Melanie replied. "I want you to know that you're my best friend."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Willow chuckled and placed an arm around Melanie's shoulders. "I <i>do</i> know," she told her. "And it's not because of anything you buy or make me. I know I mean something to you because you make time for me. You listen to me when I'm sad. You help me whenever I need it. You always think of me and you <i>want</i> to do nice things for me. I know I'm your best friend, because you're <i>mine</i>. That's much more important than any present or extra pudding could ever be!"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"Am I really?" Melanie asked, managing a smile. "Even though I'm clumsy and silly and I made a scene in the hall just now?!"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Willow grinned back at her. "<i>Always</i>," she promised. "Those things are just part of who you are and I love everything that makes you <i>you</i>."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Melanie flung her arms around Willow's neck. "Are you sure you don't want me to buy you another strawberry mousse?!"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Willow laughed. "I'm more than sure," she insisted. "You know what I <i>do</i> want, though?"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Melanie shook her head.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"I want my best friend to come back and have lunch with me. And I want her to promise that she won't ever think I need her to do anything to prove herself to me, again."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Melanie smiled. "I think I can manage that."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And with that, two best friends walked back to the hall, to share a lunch together.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
THE END</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i><u><br /></u></i></b></span></div>
<br />mrsmanicshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894116750061022896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3966316529291694099.post-54974711607139524522018-11-21T18:00:00.000+00:002018-11-21T18:00:01.009+00:00Bedtime Story (21/11/2018)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgskcMNzqiylWOYaf-d1D-Lkan8UNEiRwqsbF0fgZW9N_40AiHyLagGnDbiyO-5Liq5WgTo_ZT6C9paa3vuE8i3KDJycMeXnaYZlmDKqQcLDq3PsjwCyejwAGgKh6vKlopZJmE-mFbwQZ0/s1600/money.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="500" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgskcMNzqiylWOYaf-d1D-Lkan8UNEiRwqsbF0fgZW9N_40AiHyLagGnDbiyO-5Liq5WgTo_ZT6C9paa3vuE8i3KDJycMeXnaYZlmDKqQcLDq3PsjwCyejwAGgKh6vKlopZJmE-mFbwQZ0/s320/money.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>I'm a firm believer in the BEST things in life being the things that money CAN'T buy. So, this story is my way of sharing that message.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>To listen to this story as a podcast, click <a href="http://theramblingcurlweeklybedtimestory.libsyn.com/bedtime-story-21112018" target="_blank">here</a>.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i><u>"I Wish I was RICH!"</u></i></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i><u><br /></u></i></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"You should make a wish," Jasmine declared,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>As the candles were blown and the birthday cake shared.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Her brother, Harry, yelled at an ear-splitting pitch:</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"I wish that I was incredibly rich!"</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Jasmine's face looked rather confused.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"Is that really your wish?!" She asked, unamused.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"You could wish for something magic or funny.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>I think it's boring to only wish for more money!"</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Harry shrugged. "But money buys things!</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Just think of the fun stuff my millions could bring.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>I'd buy toys and games and endless sweets.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>We'd have day after day of incredible treats!"</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"That doesn't sound special," Jasmine insisted.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>She gazed at the presents Harry had been gifted.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"Having new stuff is a treat now and then.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>You don't need new toys, again and again!"</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"If you buy yourself presents every day,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>It won't be so special when it's your birthday.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>And when you get a treat you've saved up for,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>It somehow makes it feel worth so much more."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Harry stuck out his lip, he groaned and he frowned.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>He'd heard that money made the whole world go round!</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"But if I'm rich, I can have whatever I like;</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>The latest computer, or a really cool bike."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"I'd fly around in my own private jet.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Everyone would be so jealous, I bet!"</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Harry let out a long, dreamy sigh.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"Just tell me ONE thing that money can't buy!"</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"I'll tell you loads," Jasmine said, happily.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"Money can't buy you a family!</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>It can't buy you love or friendship or health.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Some things are much more important than wealth."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"Money can't read you a bedtime story,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Or protect you if a spooky film gets too gory.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Toys and games are good fun to play,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>But they won't kiss you goodnight at the end of the day."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"The best things in life can't always be bought,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Like laughter or memories," came Jasmine's retort.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"If you want to wish for money, I can't make you stop,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>But you can't buy happiness in ANY shop."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Harry sat and he thought long and hard.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>He gazed at all his presents and cards.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>It gave him a warm, fuzzy feeling inside.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>The smile on his face was one he couldn't hide.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"You're right," he said. "My life's too good to switch,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>I've got all I need; I don't need to be rich.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>I've got family and friends. I should listen to you!</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>All my birthday wishes have already come true."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>THE END</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />mrsmanicshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894116750061022896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3966316529291694099.post-26989044122239521322018-11-18T14:57:00.000+00:002018-11-18T14:57:40.272+00:00I'm Getting CRAFTY!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuG4BGl0bO64B0qpt-NHb-v8-PuV-eqHweusX-3QhDnLuugHvrlSiXAski9X6bZiRCMD9GoHCUj6yjId_5XSoyXfnqoizlNYB4hDqYPYZEMp3c66PwHSSIzuSX6Ar8LRuvWZMP0pR5jzY/s1600/craft1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="145" data-original-width="220" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuG4BGl0bO64B0qpt-NHb-v8-PuV-eqHweusX-3QhDnLuugHvrlSiXAski9X6bZiRCMD9GoHCUj6yjId_5XSoyXfnqoizlNYB4hDqYPYZEMp3c66PwHSSIzuSX6Ar8LRuvWZMP0pR5jzY/s400/craft1.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I won't lie to you, dear reader. My Inktober/Blogtober challenge was exactly that: a <i>challenge.</i> Writing a blog every day for a month was in many ways a really wonderful experience; it made me rediscover my passion for writing and it forced me to write about different things, taking me out of my comfort zone. But it was also <i>exhausting</i>. For the first couple of weeks of November, all I wanted to do was avoid writing, completely.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The trouble with avoiding something is that it's never a permanent solution. You have to face whatever it is you're hiding from, eventually. And for me, what I was really shying away from was the fact that for a month, I'd had prompt words to help me write something new every day. I didn't have to think overly hard about a writing topic, because the words usually led to one pretty easily. That was a huge bonus for me, because anyone who writes will, at some point in their life, experience the dreaded <b><i>WRITER'S BLOCK</i>.</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Indeed, that's exactly what I started suffering with, the second November began and I knew that anything I wrote here had to come from <i>me</i> and not from a handy list of prompt words.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And that's where my friend Rachel stepped in.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFoU4yyuLggq3pCpIB16davNOSAyH31snBfyGizRvD1GUMKOiX9BXcY96UPjcvJV8thXj6avOApRjuBnncboVlL9P-pY6NBR1MkX5zX1_-DTUNjTTAAnXXbYEla4e08dMZIvM9hyKwzKc/s1600/craft2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFoU4yyuLggq3pCpIB16davNOSAyH31snBfyGizRvD1GUMKOiX9BXcY96UPjcvJV8thXj6avOApRjuBnncboVlL9P-pY6NBR1MkX5zX1_-DTUNjTTAAnXXbYEla4e08dMZIvM9hyKwzKc/s320/craft2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>There she is. She's the one that isn't me. Obviously.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Rach sent me not one, not two, but <i>three</i> sets of writing prompts I could use for future blogs, should I find myself struggling. Today, I decided the time was right to do some blogging, so I opened up one of the prompt lists and stumbled upon the question:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><i><b>"Have you ever given someone a handmade present?"</b></i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><i><b><br /></b></i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The short answer is "yes." From little things I made at school as a child, to bits and bobs I cobbled together as a young adult who was (and, to be fair, still <i>is</i> as a middle-aged woman) always <i>broke</i> this time of year, there have been many times when I've handed someone a gift that I'd made, myself.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The trouble is, I am <i>bad</i> at craft. Like... <i>Really</i> bad. If you've watched my <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-esBLp25_Z4" target="_blank">most recent YouTube video</a>, or you've ever stumbled upon the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8TlPCGks53QSpUkGDznJTA" target="_blank">drunk craft channel</a> I co-run with my wonderful friend Lesley, you'll know just how bad I am.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Sometimes, I'm bad at something and my failure to be any good at it causes me to loathe the activity completely. See: any form of mathematical equation. But now and then, I am rubbish at something and yet still <i>enjoy</i> it. See: Bowling. And also craft.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHIEaN-fYvrtqio7-xFQvrsFaopJO0XnNm-3fWQxJzhdZIe9TvzMWNh0XJ6BpAtNuDvjynCtPLcA26jJd0yT-VrJ2FKA5wXUP_dtc5YMYkf6gGqsO56BPtL9xBEQ5mtHz6C-_iKkUGAk4/s1600/craft3.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="306" data-original-width="450" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHIEaN-fYvrtqio7-xFQvrsFaopJO0XnNm-3fWQxJzhdZIe9TvzMWNh0XJ6BpAtNuDvjynCtPLcA26jJd0yT-VrJ2FKA5wXUP_dtc5YMYkf6gGqsO56BPtL9xBEQ5mtHz6C-_iKkUGAk4/s320/craft3.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This year, I decided that I wanted to make something for someone. I can't elaborate much further, just in case said someone decides to click on this blog and guesses what it is I've been working on, but suffice to say, seeing as I'm someone who is distinctly <i>un</i>-crafty, the task I set myself was quite a big one. For someone with the ability to thread a needle without poking themselves in the hand, it would probably be nothing at all, but for <i>me</i>, it was no mean feat.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Just going out and buying the things I'd need was a big deal. I mean, I don't <i>do</i> crafty stuff. I didn't really <i>know</i> what I needed. And once I'd gotten the materials home, there was a point at which I sat on my bed, staring at it all, wondering why on Earth I'd decided to try something so far out of my comfort zone.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Then I remembered what I wanted to make and why. I had already bought Christmas presents for the recipient of my crafty endeavour, but I wanted to give them something I'd taken time over. Something that really was from <i>me</i>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I did it. I persevered at something that I found difficult and although the end result isn't <i>the best thing ever</i>, it's something I'm proud of. I look at it now (obviously it won't be given away as a present for a few weeks, yet...) and I see mistakes and areas where I needed to slow down and take more care, but I also see a finished product that I never really thought I could achieve. It means a lot to me that I stuck at it and created something that I think is nice.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The thing is, now it's given me the craft bug. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsD4YqBefLRk-xNgvYTnsMNFQx8cphBTpm1pf5Fag6bpF94_dvQo6dWARNdruXVMu0nm6bjPPM7KXIPj8IbWLB8xsxgPz0MxDWh4HOx5nlOwB4BFFgL30MdwFDzHfl08k9YFt_xAHKpvw/s1600/craft5.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="480" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsD4YqBefLRk-xNgvYTnsMNFQx8cphBTpm1pf5Fag6bpF94_dvQo6dWARNdruXVMu0nm6bjPPM7KXIPj8IbWLB8xsxgPz0MxDWh4HOx5nlOwB4BFFgL30MdwFDzHfl08k9YFt_xAHKpvw/s320/craft5.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This morning, I've painted an object with acrylic paint, ready to turn it into... SOMETHING ELSE. It's a top secret project (yet again) and I'm getting very excited about seeing this one through, just like my last crafty mission. Taking bare bones and raw materials and turning them into something pretty, useful or interesting is, as it turns out, an awful lot of fun. Plus, I get to use a GLUE GUN. It's win-win.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The things I make might not win any awards for their brilliance. I certainly couldn't sell them, anywhere. I'm under no illusion that I'm suddenly incredibly gifted in this particular area. But I'm learning all the time and I'm having an absolute blast doing it. There are now bigger, trickier things I want to try, like learning to knit, or making my own jewellery. I'll probably suck at both, but you know what? I'll have fun giving it a go, anyway.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And on that note, I ought to go and see if that paint is dry, yet. I have important, crafty things to do...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><i><b><br /></b></i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />mrsmanicshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894116750061022896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3966316529291694099.post-64974718344149092742018-11-14T18:00:00.000+00:002018-11-14T18:00:03.275+00:00Bedtime Story (14/11/2018)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Z13d8xKpu0krKNqIATYKd4YY6khNXsVb0kKbnuicbIj_6CEARlvrwyX8tFzdJhy1O0pskpu8Vb8YD1cWjfr7oS23IEa_Y6C-_tFE4sElsU_LUNfamTII5akyMriCvZDlWiTB1w_BkfI/s1600/cake.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="280" data-original-width="500" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Z13d8xKpu0krKNqIATYKd4YY6khNXsVb0kKbnuicbIj_6CEARlvrwyX8tFzdJhy1O0pskpu8Vb8YD1cWjfr7oS23IEa_Y6C-_tFE4sElsU_LUNfamTII5akyMriCvZDlWiTB1w_BkfI/s320/cake.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>This story is an homage to some of the children's books I read at work with the young ones I teach. It's also a good excuse to write about cake...</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>This story is, as always, also available as a <a href="http://theramblingcurlweeklybedtimestory.libsyn.com/bedtime-story-14112018" target="_blank">podcast</a>.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><u>Jasper And The Birthday Cake</u></b></span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Jasper's mum's birthday cakes were <i>legendary</i>. She made the moistest sponge. She whipped up the fluffiest frosting. She created cakes of all shapes and sizes, with all kinds of delicious flavours. Everyone in the village knew that if they wanted a birthday cake made, Jasper's mum was <i>the</i> person to go to.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So, when it came to Jasper's mum's birthday, Jasper was worried. Who was going to make <i>her</i> cake?!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Jasper got out of bed bright and early. He dashed into his mum's room and handed her a card and present. He gave her a big, birthday hug and then, before Mum had time to thank him, he announced: "I'm just popping out to see Gran and Grandad!" And with that, he darted out of the house.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Gran and Grandad were a little surprised to see Jasper, considering the early hour. But Jasper had an important plan and he needed their help: together, they were going to bake Mum the <i>best</i> birthday cake <i>ever</i>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It wasn't easy. Jasper wasn't sure his arms were strong enough to stir the cake mix properly. It didn't look as smooth and creamy as when Mum made it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Whilst the cake was cooking in the oven, Grandad tried to show Jasper how to whip up the frosting, but no matter how hard Jasper tried, <i>his</i> frosting looked much grainier than Mum's.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When the cake was cooked, Gran took it out of the oven and Jasper pulled a face. It wasn't perfectly shaped like Mum's were; the top was wonky and there were dents in the sides, where Jasper had put too much baking parchment into the tin. Then, when he added the frosting, he couldn't help but think it looked much lumpier and messier than Mum's ever did.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Still, Jasper used an icing pen to write "happy birthday Mum!" on the top of the cake in large, slightly wobbly letters. And even though the cake didn't <i>look</i> perfect, Jasper had to admit that the smell was <i>delicious</i>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"Come on," Jasper called to his grandparents. "Now we have to take this cake back to show Mum!"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Jasper set off, with Gran and Grandad close behind. They hadn't gotten far, when Mr Terrance, the old man whose retirement cake Mum had made a few years before, noticed them and headed over to see what was going on. He could smell the delicious scent of the cake and decided to follow Jasper and his grandparents, in the hope of getting a slice.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
They rounded the corner and headed onto the high street, Jasper leading the way, with Gran and Grandad and Mr Terrance following behind.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As they walked past the corner shop, Mum's friend Betty spotted the cake. It smelled so good, she thought she might like to try it, too. And so she followed on behind.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Outside the salon, Mum's hairdresser, Cassie, was just about to open up for the day. She spotted Jasper, carrying the birthday cake, with Gran, Grandad, Mr Terrance and Betty all following behind. She sniffed the air and smiled. Perhaps she could just follow them and see if there was a spare slice for <i>her</i>...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Jasper, Gran, Grandad, Mr Terrance, Betty and Cassie headed down the street and stopped at the traffic lights. There, Frank the policeman, who'd once helped find Mum's missing purse, was just on his way home from a long shift. He hadn't had any breakfast yet and the cake had such a lovely smell, it made him hungry. He decided he'd best follow everyone, just to be sure they were safe, of course...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Crossing the road, Jasper walked past the park, with Gran, Grandad, Mr Terrance, Betty, Cassie and Frank the policeman all following behind. In the park, Mum's friend Anne was walking her dog, Buster. Buster tugged on his lead, wanting to know where everyone was going. Anne chuckled to herself, as she joined the procession of people, walking down the street.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
On the corner of Jasper's road, Jasper's best friend Tom was playing on his scooter. He blinked in surprise when he saw everyone pass by. Tucking his scooter under his arm, he decided to join them.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And so, Jasper, Gran, Grandad, Mr Terrance, Betty, Cassie, Frank the policeman, Anne, Buster the dog <i>and</i> Tom all arrived back at Jasper's house. Mum was waiting by the front door. "Oh!" She gasped, as she saw everyone.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"I made you a cake," Jasper explained, not noticing the commotion behind him. "But it's not as good as the ones <i>you</i> make."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Mum shook her head. "You brought everyone with you to share it!" She exclaimed. "All my friends and family!"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Jasper frowned and finally glanced behind, laughing as he saw everyone waiting for a slice of his cake. "I... Well... Yes, I suppose I did!"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Mum grinned. "Anyway, the <i>best</i> birthday cakes are the ones made with love. Shall we have a slice?!"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"YES!" Cried Jasper, Gran, Grandad, Mr Terrance, Betty, Cassie, Frank the policeman, Anne and Tom. "WOOF!" Barked Buster the dog.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And they all went inside, to eat a very special birthday cake, that may not have looked perfect, but tasted just right.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
THE END</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />mrsmanicshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894116750061022896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3966316529291694099.post-71837971335844908732018-11-07T18:00:00.000+00:002018-11-07T18:00:00.752+00:00Bedtime Story (7/11/2018)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdK1XIQaH-cX2JxQEoZr7UW7vQR80Xidzlf3IAE1_bEr9pkkm5KUBVEFRZdOkqnZklR4_QxTBobzpkva4zlrNO4HHFgCqVmXt3fP8RME_Gc_BgQGsFJNEdUUet8mk0PuhRDgfITHGDb7E/s1600/poppies.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="346" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdK1XIQaH-cX2JxQEoZr7UW7vQR80Xidzlf3IAE1_bEr9pkkm5KUBVEFRZdOkqnZklR4_QxTBobzpkva4zlrNO4HHFgCqVmXt3fP8RME_Gc_BgQGsFJNEdUUet8mk0PuhRDgfITHGDb7E/s400/poppies.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Being a proud military brat, I can never let Remembrance Day go by without marking it somehow. As this is the closest bedtime story before the 11th, I wanted to write a poem in tribute. Today is also the day that my closest friend's poppy exhibition opens to the public at Cornwall's Regimental Museum (I am so, so proud of her!), so this subject just feels very appropriate.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>You can also <a href="http://theramblingcurlweeklybedtimestory.libsyn.com/bedtime-story-7112018" target="_blank">listen</a> to this story as a podcast.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>"Why Are They Wearing Flowers?"</u></b></span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Everyone was walking ever so slowly,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>In their coats, their hats and their scarves.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Hardly a sound was made as they walked,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Just the birds and the passing cars.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"Why are they wearing flowers?" Asked Sam,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>As she clutched on to her mother's hand.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"Those red flowers are ever so pretty, Mum,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>But what do they mean? I don't understand."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"To remember all of the soldiers," Mum said,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"Who never came home from war.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>To give thanks to those who fought for freedom.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>That's what the flowers are for."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"Where do the flowers come from?" Sam asked.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"And why did they choose one that's red?</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Everyone looks serious and sad,"</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Sam added, with a shake of her head.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"The red poppy grew in the fields," said Mum,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"After terrible battles took place.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>It sprung up, new and beautiful;</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Hope in a cold, tragic place."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"Now, these little paper flowers</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Can be bought for just a few pence.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>And the money we use to buy them,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Goes to good causes, which makes perfect sense!"</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"The Royal British Legion</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Looks after service folk, young and old.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>They help people in all kinds of ways</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>With the money from each poppy sold."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>"The world would be a different place,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>If past conflicts had not been won.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>So, by wearing poppies we thank the soldiers</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>And remember them - every one."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Sam nodded her head. "I understand.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Those flowers mean more than I guessed."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>And with respect and gratitude,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>She pinned one to her chest.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>THE END</i></div>
<br />mrsmanicshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894116750061022896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3966316529291694099.post-24453973575756075572018-10-31T20:58:00.001+00:002018-10-31T20:58:30.601+00:00Inktober/Blogtober Crossover: Day 31<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdADjoTOiYkYDQSrFMKZGLHABjxQh9DbeoAPc02hWA_xp8Wc1LHf_zgZHzuVZQhAATUV3iCzL9H1wkjRMe8dAt-tbKef_tyQzF3wEHfyv8CwHrdSu3DnOPkRrNFO3SJ3dqMvVEXUwfVqY/s1600/pizza.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="500" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdADjoTOiYkYDQSrFMKZGLHABjxQh9DbeoAPc02hWA_xp8Wc1LHf_zgZHzuVZQhAATUV3iCzL9H1wkjRMe8dAt-tbKef_tyQzF3wEHfyv8CwHrdSu3DnOPkRrNFO3SJ3dqMvVEXUwfVqY/s320/pizza.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I can't quite believe I've stuck to this whole "blogging every day for a month" thing, but here we are on the final day of my Inktober/Blogtober challenge and that's exactly what I've managed to do. Somehow...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The final word is "slice," which could only mean one thing, in my greedy, greedy brain: PIZZA.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If I were to compile a list of favourite foods (please don't make me, it would be much too hard), pizza would <i>have</i> to be somewhere near the top. It's a near-perfect food in <i>so</i> many ways. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For a start, it can be adapted to suit almost any taste: you choose your toppings and you can remove anything you don't like before you even make the order. Want a pizza with lots of veggies on and no meat? Go for it. Want a pizza with extra tomato sauce? That's fine. Want a pizza with no cheese at all? It's perfectly doable.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Secondly, it's an ideal food to share, making it a fabulously social meal. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's also quick and easy. Pizza dough isn't especially hard to whip up, if you fancy having a go at it from scratch, but equally, readymade pizza bases are available if you only want to worry about toppings. And if you're really stuck for time, fresh or frozen pizzas already made up can be found in any supermarket, to be popped in the oven at home, where they cook in no time at all.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you're lucky enough to live near a pizza place that delivers, there's even less work to be done - just call or go online and order whatever it is you fancy. There's something deliciously decadent about eating pizza straight out of the box, too.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's also one of those meals that's versatile to everyone's eating habits. If you want to pick it up with your fingers, <i>go for it</i>. If you'd rather have a knife and fork, that works, too.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
From stuffed crusts to thin, crispy bases, the humble pizza can be adapted and changed to suit almost anyone. It's also often the food that accompanies nights in with friends, a quick and easy treat at dinnertime or the need to mope on the sofa for an evening. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's a food that can do basically anything. And for that reason, it will always hold a special place in my exceptionally greedy heart.</div>
<br />mrsmanicshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894116750061022896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3966316529291694099.post-76011593951387193022018-10-31T18:00:00.000+00:002018-10-31T18:00:00.613+00:00Bedtime Story (31/10/2018)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmE37x49_rZ2EDu40dG-uCXMzpiW7uSynl_O0zUix3eSQBYaCi8CFTrLzOM5civnwB_PLgmorowFH3ofInaxSWytOCiQN30DTHdyJNbtelgKX8kOEXvbtby7hA9x9jX-tbDb2WuvikTq4/s1600/halloween.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="540" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmE37x49_rZ2EDu40dG-uCXMzpiW7uSynl_O0zUix3eSQBYaCi8CFTrLzOM5civnwB_PLgmorowFH3ofInaxSWytOCiQN30DTHdyJNbtelgKX8kOEXvbtby7hA9x9jX-tbDb2WuvikTq4/s320/halloween.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>How could I post a story on this date and NOT have it be about Halloween?! This is all about the REALLY scary things in life...</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>To listen to this story as a podcast, click <a href="http://theramblingcurlweeklybedtimestory.libsyn.com/bedtime-story-31102018" target="_blank">here.</a></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>What I'm REALLY Scared Of...</u></b></span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>It's Halloween and everyone </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Is dressing up as something scary.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>But I'm not scared of monsters</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>That are big, angry and hairy!</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>The things that really frighten me</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Are worse than any ghost that could appear.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>So here's a list of all the things</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>That I actually fear...</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Being called to see the headmaster,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>When you know he'll be cross with you.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>A really difficult maths test,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>When you just don't know what to do.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Missing the final step or two,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>When you're walking down the stairs.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Having the same school bag as someone else</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>And accidentally taking home theirs.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Falling out with my best friend,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Or forgetting my school lunch money.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Telling a joke in front of my class</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>And nobody finding it funny.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Standing on stage to sing a song</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>And forgetting all of the words.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Having a root canal at the dentists </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>- Because my brother says that hurts!</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Forgetting my PE kit</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>And having to do it in my undies.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Being told to be silent somewhere important</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Then doing a massive sneeze.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Jumping off the highest board</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>At my local swimming pool.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Trying to impress someone</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>And looking like a fool.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Being chased down the street</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>By an angry, buzzing wasp.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Being in a go-kart</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>And not knowing how to stop!</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Standing in something wet and gross</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>When I'm walking with bare feet.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Getting lost in the supermarket,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Because I'm too busy looking at sweets.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>All these things scare me,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>But I still don't hide away.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>I go out there and face my fears</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Every single day.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>And I'm sure you'll understand,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Now you've read of phobias like these,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Why meeting a monster or a ghost</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i>Would frankly be a breeze!</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>THE END</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<br />mrsmanicshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894116750061022896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3966316529291694099.post-10451405707452171322018-10-30T21:22:00.001+00:002018-10-30T21:22:30.965+00:00Inktober/Blogtober Crossover: Day 30<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigtLXvH4Q00ROaLcv3dTLdOt3yRgLt8vj5-nJ1X6YP7ajotjeKtXPivFWsTSoptPJFnW_XO8DkRU08NHJ5I5jtAgCgrt9CWbSrvZKFZLM3AMrs9LncIA74OKARmXT_QqkYtBXJxET6eOo/s1600/jolt1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="651" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigtLXvH4Q00ROaLcv3dTLdOt3yRgLt8vj5-nJ1X6YP7ajotjeKtXPivFWsTSoptPJFnW_XO8DkRU08NHJ5I5jtAgCgrt9CWbSrvZKFZLM3AMrs9LncIA74OKARmXT_QqkYtBXJxET6eOo/s400/jolt1.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When I read that today's penultimate Inktober word was "jolt," I thought back to the times in my life when I've had a realisation about myself, someone close to me or the world in general, which has genuinely taken me aback and made me see things in a new way.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There's something quite special about the moment that the penny drops regarding a certain situation or person. That instant when you realise why you feel the way you do about things can be genuinely life-changing. Every time you have a major realisation, it causes you to look at yourself and your life through fresh eyes and often, one moment of understanding sets off a chain reaction. That initial "jolt," when you realise something important about yourself or your life, can alter the path you're on, forever.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My most recent "jolt" was probably also my most important. It didn't happen in some amazing, lightbulb moment, or anything like that. It was merely a case of my own mind bombarding me with questions, as always. But this time, the question came completely out of nowhere and the <i>answer</i> knocked me sideways.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
My entire life, I've identified as straight. My only relationships have been with men. All my celebrity crushes were on men. All my <i>real life</i> crushes were on men. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Whilst I've always been a champion of LGBT+ rights, I never <i>ever</i> saw myself as anything beyond straight. In fact, if anything, the idea of personally being with a woman always made me feel a bit uncomfortable. It wasn't what I was into. I had no desire to be with someone who wasn't a dude.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCIhwJmPXs2Ih-X9BzqR4MF8i4hJE7AjYrdauNa5Uev1ZXHolMdK05t0V_fC4yDv8THZmvA5u3TbUobxtzeypOHDvyIffgp_1rrnbBFBorJeCPYoe2ORePGaC04KPDBnobNHml-1FlSTo/s1600/jolt2.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="500" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCIhwJmPXs2Ih-X9BzqR4MF8i4hJE7AjYrdauNa5Uev1ZXHolMdK05t0V_fC4yDv8THZmvA5u3TbUobxtzeypOHDvyIffgp_1rrnbBFBorJeCPYoe2ORePGaC04KPDBnobNHml-1FlSTo/s400/jolt2.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And then, early last year, my life went through a <i>lot </i>of upheaval. I had a female acquaintance who knew a lot about the situation I was going through and, despite us not being close friends, or living near to one another or anything like that, she took it upon herself to try to support me for a while. For a couple of weeks (if that, really), she'd message me via Facebook every other day, to see how I was. As expected, we ended up chatting about things beyond just my woes and I felt like I got to know her a lot better as a result. Then, one day, out of the blue, a question popped into my head: </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
"What would you say if she asked you out?"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It was a ludicrous question. She was straight. <i>I</i> was straight. There was no chance of that happening. So I attempted to ignore it, because why answer a question you'll never <i>need</i> to actually respond to?!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But the question was still in my head days later and eventually, I realised the reason I was trying not to answer it - even in my own mind - was because the answer scared me. Because the answer was "of <i>course</i> I'd say yes."</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
She was funny and kind. We had a lot of things in common. She was easy to talk to. She was objectively attractive. Why would I say no, based purely on the fact that her gender was "wrong?"</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Of course, given that I was going through a whole mountain of crap, early last year, I didn't have much time to dwell on this potential new piece of information about myself. Besides, I still fancied guys. I wasn't <i>gay</i>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But over the course of the year, I started to realise - and more importantly to accept - that I was open to the idea of being with someone of the same gender as myself. I began to understand that it's the <i>person</i> that I fall for, not their sex. My crushes have always been based more on personality than looks, so it perhaps shouldn't have been as much of a surprise as it was. I fall for someone based on things like whether they make me laugh. Whether they seem kind. Whether I can open up and really be myself around them. It shouldn't have been a surprise to reach the conclusion that those things aren't exclusive to males. Eventually, I realised just how capable I am of falling for someone regardless of gender and whilst it came as a shock, it wasn't something I felt any kind of worry or embarrassment about. I was probably very lucky, in that sense.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now, it's just a part of who I am. I don't like to put a label on myself, but I know that when it comes to who I fall for, gender is essentially irrelevant. I believe we're all much more sexually fluid than we ever realise. Some of us might never feel anything for someone of our own gender and some of us might feel something and be too afraid or confused to act on it. That's okay. Others might fall for someone of their own gender and decide to take a chance and see where a relationship might lead. That's okay, too. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As long as we can learn to love and accept ourselves, that's the most important thing of all.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />mrsmanicshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894116750061022896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3966316529291694099.post-82649579478874234802018-10-29T12:08:00.000+00:002018-10-29T12:08:51.458+00:00Inktober/Blogtober Crossover: Day 29<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggXtMvC8qkXQugj5_vNoI-7ePt9CWoJZCmLccbZY3Hoc3SYHPY2l8nEsrcgTPutWFrtcmQP9d8gpHk6NzxodNZdubJ7Vgj418jhHaswvxvkGSHXCjO__AlcpO341gjE7INOljXb76wz_I/s1600/twins.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="231" data-original-width="500" height="183" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggXtMvC8qkXQugj5_vNoI-7ePt9CWoJZCmLccbZY3Hoc3SYHPY2l8nEsrcgTPutWFrtcmQP9d8gpHk6NzxodNZdubJ7Vgj418jhHaswvxvkGSHXCjO__AlcpO341gjE7INOljXb76wz_I/s400/twins.gif" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I always wanted a twin. In fact, for a worrying amount of my early childhood, I imagined I <i>did</i> have a twin, they were just... invisible. It's fine, I've had therapy.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Today's Inktober prompt word is "double" and at first, I thought about writing an entire post about my long-held yearning for a twin. The trouble is, it wouldn't be that interesting. "I always wanted a twin" just about sums the whole thing up, after all.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
What I find much more fascinating, however, is the concept of <i>finding</i> your twin. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Not literally. I'm not about to go off on some kind of <i>Blood Brothers</i> style tale about discovering a sibling you were separated from at birth. Partly because I'm fairly sure that doesn't happen all that often (if ever) and partly because the end of <i>Blood Brothers</i> makes me cry and I don't fancy writing this whilst softly weeping and attempting to sing <i>Tell Me It's Not True</i> in a bad Scouse accent.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn2E__FzTdlbR0p6rrfiaCAED2ZpF1Ys0VapWevaWKLFWaCqRzDjgsP4l5eTBwUx6BiIuYgVspdbEVU6AzIH1W1rFkoJQhw5GNF1-rsjAW09QVm3i2Hl1boHVW6v1QeTu2fkk473Pqea0/s1600/blood+brothers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="324" data-original-width="620" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn2E__FzTdlbR0p6rrfiaCAED2ZpF1Ys0VapWevaWKLFWaCqRzDjgsP4l5eTBwUx6BiIuYgVspdbEVU6AzIH1W1rFkoJQhw5GNF1-rsjAW09QVm3i2Hl1boHVW6v1QeTu2fkk473Pqea0/s400/blood+brothers.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
When I talk about finding your "twin," I suppose I mean what some people refer to as your "soulmate." </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For me, a soulmate can be someone you have a romantic <i>or</i> a platonic connection with. It could even be someone who goes from one to the other. But the most important thing about it, is that the person you consider your "soulmate," your "twin" or your "double" (however you want to say it), is someone you click with in a way that feels special. It's as though you met them and instantly <i>knew</i> they were going to be an enormously important part of your life. And the love you have for them, be it platonic, romantic or any other kind, becomes such a deep part of who you are that you wonder how you ever went about your life without them in it. Where did all that love come from? How did you suddenly just <i>know </i>that you'd found the right person to give it to?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's someone who <i>gets</i> you. Someone who understands your quirks and maybe even shares some of them. It's someone who's looking outwards in the same direction as you are. Someone you can communicate an entire sentence with, using only a look.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's someone who's quite probably into a lot of the same stuff as you are, but who has equal interest in the things you <i>don't</i> have in common and who wants to listen to you talk about the things you love, regardless of whether they share a love for them, too. Those things are important to <i>you</i> and therefore, they've become important to <i>them</i> as well.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's someone you feel you can be yourself with, warts and all. Someone you can tell things to without fear of judgement. Someone you feel safe with, because you know they understand you. It's that person you want to share your good news with. The person you know you can turn to when things go wrong.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's someone who laughs <i>with</i> you, before you've even told the joke, or explained what's making you giggle. It's someone who laughs<i> at</i> you when you're being an idiot, and you don't care, because you know they're right.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
It's someone who knows all your faults as well as your strengths and who loves you anyway. Perhaps they even love you <i>more. </i>And you feel exactly the same about them.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The best way to sum up a soulmate, twin, or <i>double</i>, for me, is with my favourite Dr Seuss quote:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>"We're all a little weird</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>And life's a little weird.</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>And when we find someone whose weirdness </i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>Is compatible with our own,</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>We join up with them</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>And fall in mutual weirdness</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i>And call it love."</i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />mrsmanicshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894116750061022896noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3966316529291694099.post-67363184512669742792018-10-28T12:00:00.000+00:002018-10-28T12:00:08.966+00:00Inktober/Blogtober Crossover: Day 28<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW1KwV3c6kmhxP0UVlMoDip0EcCsnZRDi6koy2FT4c2LVfiICTrORqrsey7G8Ipbg6oFP_7nPPyl8gYsUnd5al__AhzllTHF2Ddx8V7N2Z8dYRp_YkfRzrttTnh0vRVVezZh4Lvwt9Fjk/s1600/gift.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="737" data-original-width="737" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW1KwV3c6kmhxP0UVlMoDip0EcCsnZRDi6koy2FT4c2LVfiICTrORqrsey7G8Ipbg6oFP_7nPPyl8gYsUnd5al__AhzllTHF2Ddx8V7N2Z8dYRp_YkfRzrttTnh0vRVVezZh4Lvwt9Fjk/s320/gift.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
Today's prompt word was "gift," so it's time to talk PRESENTS!<br />
<br />
We're at that time of year when I have usually started my Christmas shopping and this October is no exception. It's one of my absolute favourite things to do and I mean that quite sincerely. I <i>adore</i> buying presents for the people I love. In fact, I love it so much that I keep a list of gift ideas for my family and closest friends on my phone all year long, then check it every time it comes up to a birthday or Christmas.<br />
<br />
As much as I love being given presents (and I really do love that!), there is something absolutely magical about buying something you just <i>know</i> someone will be thrilled with. I get really excited when I think of a gift idea that someone will love and the moment that they open it and I see the smile on their face is always a really special one.<br />
<br />
Of course, it's also a slightly nerve-wracking one. When you've put a lot of thought into a gift, there's always a bit of a tense moment, where you worry whether you've got it wrong. Will they like it? What if you've got the wrong size, colour or brand?!<br />
<br />
Another thing I wish I could do more is <i>make </i>presents for people. I currently have an idea about the way I want to present the small selection of gifts I've already bought someone for Christmas and in a moment of madness, I decided I wanted to <i>make</i> something to put them all in. If I had any talent at sewing, knitting or any such stuff, that would be a great idea. But I can barely thread a needle, so why I've hit upon such a probably foolish plan, I really don't know. I just know that some of my favourite gifts over the years have been things someone has made for me. I guess I want to see if I can do the same?!<br />
<br />
But whether I make things or buy things, there are few things I love more than getting special gifts for people I really care about. Christmas is just around the corner, so it's a hobby I can indulge. <br />
<br />
I can't wait!<br />
<br />
<br />mrsmanicshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09894116750061022896noreply@blogger.com0