Merry Christmas everyone. I hope everyone's holidays go to plan and something wonderful happens over this time of celebration.
Rampart
This movie was not one which I would have chosen myself, but when my parents brought it home from the video store, I figured that I may as well give it a go. Woody Harrelson plays the main character and does the role well, but that has to be my only praise for this film. I struggled to watch it the whole way through. It was dull, the direction was strange and the plot didn't seem to go anywhere.
When it first came out I heard a lot of praise for the movie, but I personally don't understand that. Perhaps it would be a better watch for people who remember the rampart scandals of the late nineties. It works well with that context, but I know very little about it. I was only just starting school when the scandals arose, so my interest in world news was non-existent.
For me, this is one of the few movies that I wouldn't give another shot. I found it boring and completely uninteresting. I'd like to have something great to say about it, but I'm struggling to see any greatness in it. I would like to applaud Harrelson for taking on the role however. It was a big commitment to make and he did it so very well.
When it first came out I heard a lot of praise for the movie, but I personally don't understand that. Perhaps it would be a better watch for people who remember the rampart scandals of the late nineties. It works well with that context, but I know very little about it. I was only just starting school when the scandals arose, so my interest in world news was non-existent.
For me, this is one of the few movies that I wouldn't give another shot. I found it boring and completely uninteresting. I'd like to have something great to say about it, but I'm struggling to see any greatness in it. I would like to applaud Harrelson for taking on the role however. It was a big commitment to make and he did it so very well.
Shinedown
I've known of Shinedown for a couple of years now. I first heard their music on a compilation album which I was given for christmas a while ago. About six months ago, I got more of their music, but it's only been in the last two weeks or so that I started to listen to it.
I'm quickly beginning to realise that I really enjoy their sound. The leading singers voice has a certain quality. My mum and I have had many a conversation about this. Singers such as Scott Stapp from Creed, Chris Cornell from Audioslave, J.D. Fortune from the show Rock Star INXS, M. Shadows from Avenged Sevenfold and so on, have this quality. It's like they're crying their emotions out through their song. It adds a depth to the listening experience. It's also a quality which is almost solely masculine. Very few women have it, unfortunately.
Shinedown for me, is becoming music which I will purposefully listen to, instead of letting it simply just play whatever. They're definitely rock, which I love, but they're not so heavy that they become overbearing. So far I haven't had to avoid them because of my mood, which I have to do with other music.
If you haven't heard of them yet, and like a bit of rock, I'd say that it'd be worth giving them a listening to.
I'm quickly beginning to realise that I really enjoy their sound. The leading singers voice has a certain quality. My mum and I have had many a conversation about this. Singers such as Scott Stapp from Creed, Chris Cornell from Audioslave, J.D. Fortune from the show Rock Star INXS, M. Shadows from Avenged Sevenfold and so on, have this quality. It's like they're crying their emotions out through their song. It adds a depth to the listening experience. It's also a quality which is almost solely masculine. Very few women have it, unfortunately.
Shinedown for me, is becoming music which I will purposefully listen to, instead of letting it simply just play whatever. They're definitely rock, which I love, but they're not so heavy that they become overbearing. So far I haven't had to avoid them because of my mood, which I have to do with other music.
If you haven't heard of them yet, and like a bit of rock, I'd say that it'd be worth giving them a listening to.
One left
With only one exam left for the year, everything is coming to a close for me.
I don't have any more lectures, friends hanging around the city or reason to keep bussing in, yet, I wish it hadn't gone so fast.
Before starting university this year, before leaving high school, I was terrified. The unknown scares me immensely.
Now that I've done it, I don't know why I was so worried. Sure, there where some trials along the way. I've lost touch with a lot of people I consider friends and I miss them. I've met new people, gone out on the town partying for the first time, and learnt what life outside of my once small world was like. The culture shock had been massive, yet I wouldn't change a thing. I like things how they are. I care about the people I've got to know. I enjoy the social group I've formed.
Regrets would be futile. That's what this post is aimed to say. There are things that could have gone differently, or I could have handled differently, but mourning that would not do anyone any good.
Live life for today, for now, and for yourself. Planning for the future is great but living within it is useless.
I don't have any more lectures, friends hanging around the city or reason to keep bussing in, yet, I wish it hadn't gone so fast.
Before starting university this year, before leaving high school, I was terrified. The unknown scares me immensely.
Now that I've done it, I don't know why I was so worried. Sure, there where some trials along the way. I've lost touch with a lot of people I consider friends and I miss them. I've met new people, gone out on the town partying for the first time, and learnt what life outside of my once small world was like. The culture shock had been massive, yet I wouldn't change a thing. I like things how they are. I care about the people I've got to know. I enjoy the social group I've formed.
Regrets would be futile. That's what this post is aimed to say. There are things that could have gone differently, or I could have handled differently, but mourning that would not do anyone any good.
Live life for today, for now, and for yourself. Planning for the future is great but living within it is useless.
Rock of Ages - Movie
So apparently Tom Cruise can sing...
I first heard of this movie while on a date. I immediately wanted to see it. I had no idea what it was about or who was in it, but 'Rock of Ages' by Def Leopard is one of my all time favourite songs.
Unfortunately the guy didn't work out, but seeing the movie did.
Last week my family and I managed to rent this movie from the DVD store. Watching it on a rainy day while eating junk food and singing along to every song.
I thoroughly enjoyed this movie. I won't give away the plot, but I'd say it would be worth a watch for anyone who enjoys eighties music. I loved it and it set me in high spirits for days.
I first heard of this movie while on a date. I immediately wanted to see it. I had no idea what it was about or who was in it, but 'Rock of Ages' by Def Leopard is one of my all time favourite songs.
Unfortunately the guy didn't work out, but seeing the movie did.
Last week my family and I managed to rent this movie from the DVD store. Watching it on a rainy day while eating junk food and singing along to every song.
I thoroughly enjoyed this movie. I won't give away the plot, but I'd say it would be worth a watch for anyone who enjoys eighties music. I loved it and it set me in high spirits for days.
Point of View
Recently I've noticed something. My point of view on life can be dependent on the weather, and so can my writing. I tend not to write when I'm in a bad mood because it comes across in the story. The tone of my writing changes. It's something I've been attempting to change, but have not yet had the success I require. A good day translates to decent writing, where a bad day does the opposite.
So I do my best to avoid bad days for my writing's sake, but this isn't really a way to continue. I need to find a way to detach my feelings from what I'm writing. The story requires an emotion of its own, and forcing myself to feel that emotion can be unhealthy, and waiting until I feel that way makes my writing process slow.
I'll let you all know if I make any progress on this front, but for now, I'll continue working how I always have. So far its worked for me, hopefully I'll be able to find another way which works too.
Peace out y'all.
So I do my best to avoid bad days for my writing's sake, but this isn't really a way to continue. I need to find a way to detach my feelings from what I'm writing. The story requires an emotion of its own, and forcing myself to feel that emotion can be unhealthy, and waiting until I feel that way makes my writing process slow.
I'll let you all know if I make any progress on this front, but for now, I'll continue working how I always have. So far its worked for me, hopefully I'll be able to find another way which works too.
Peace out y'all.
Dedicated
Just a few hours ago I started up a new twitter account dedicated to all my writing. If you're interested for a little more information, check me out at https://twitter.com/AlyssaHillWrite
Keep being amazing everyone.
Three More Days
Including today, it's only a mere three days until I go on study leave and be done with lectures for the rest of the year. I can't tell you how insane that feels, but it does make me wonder what life will be like next year. I'm changing my course completely, even moving faculties as I'm finding the art history here far too basic. I'm loosing my passion for it and I can't let that happen.
Wednesdays are my days which I use to tie up any loose ends. For most of the day I'm alone, so I have a lot of time to do nothing much. It's my day to finish any study I should have already done, write blog posts if I feel I have anything to say, and just generally organize things. Sitting downstairs in the business building drinking coffee is pretty much what my day looks like, if you throw the laptop into the mix anyway.
For some reason, today has inspired me to have a look at the year just been and the one that could be coming up. Very soon it will be my little sisters seventeenth birthday and that's made me realize that I don't actually have that much time up my sleeve. Time has passed so quickly.
Maybe it was seeing an ex who I haven't seen in a long time, or noticing the difference in my own attitude which has sparked my inspiration, but whatever it is, I've decided one thing.
I don't want to waste another moment stressing about what others think of me or being too hard on myself. I want to be my own person. I want to live my life the way I deserve to and not feel bad for that. I also want to spread a little advise. It has helped me this year, although I haven't always been good at practicing it.
Take every moment as it comes and live life the way you want to live it, not how someone else convinces you should.
Of course this advise is relative, I mean, don't go out hurting people because I worded it wrong, but be who you actually are, not who you tell other people you are.
Wednesdays are my days which I use to tie up any loose ends. For most of the day I'm alone, so I have a lot of time to do nothing much. It's my day to finish any study I should have already done, write blog posts if I feel I have anything to say, and just generally organize things. Sitting downstairs in the business building drinking coffee is pretty much what my day looks like, if you throw the laptop into the mix anyway.
For some reason, today has inspired me to have a look at the year just been and the one that could be coming up. Very soon it will be my little sisters seventeenth birthday and that's made me realize that I don't actually have that much time up my sleeve. Time has passed so quickly.
Maybe it was seeing an ex who I haven't seen in a long time, or noticing the difference in my own attitude which has sparked my inspiration, but whatever it is, I've decided one thing.
I don't want to waste another moment stressing about what others think of me or being too hard on myself. I want to be my own person. I want to live my life the way I deserve to and not feel bad for that. I also want to spread a little advise. It has helped me this year, although I haven't always been good at practicing it.
Take every moment as it comes and live life the way you want to live it, not how someone else convinces you should.
Of course this advise is relative, I mean, don't go out hurting people because I worded it wrong, but be who you actually are, not who you tell other people you are.
Sick of Being Slow
With the start of University this year I bought a laptop with some of my loan. It's taken me a while, but I've finally gotten around to getting rid of Internet Explorer and moved onto using Google Chrome. So far, even though it's only been a few days, I like the change. It is mostly because Chrome somewhat resembles the apple browser Safari, which I love. I've tried Safari for windows but didn't enjoy it at all. There's something about the compatibility with the windows operating system which simply isn't as nice when it's on a mac computer.
Anyway, I've been finding a lot more user friendly browser than explorer. Technically I knew it was going to be better, but I'd never used it before. It's nice and simple to use and everything seems to be in a logical place. I have spoken to a couple of people who prefer explorer, but the majority I've talked to about that topic prefer Chrome. I'm quickly finding that I should have changed sooner.
To anyone still stuck using Explorer who might be finding it annoying, like I was, and want an easy alternative, I'd recommend giving Chrome a thought.
Progress
My book I'm currently working on that I've titled 'The Vatican' is coming along nicely. Currently I'm sitting at my desk searching for some inspiration to finish writing chapter 13. So far, even in the planning, it has to be one of my favourites so I want it to be perfect. I've got the word document open on my laptop and am blogging on my desktop.
I am pleased to say that I've reached about a third of the way through story line wise. it's coming together nicely but I'm doing my best not to rush the process. I don't want to ruin the story because I was too eager to get it down.
I'll put a snippet up from this chapter soon. I'm more than excited to be getting to this point.
I am pleased to say that I've reached about a third of the way through story line wise. it's coming together nicely but I'm doing my best not to rush the process. I don't want to ruin the story because I was too eager to get it down.
I'll put a snippet up from this chapter soon. I'm more than excited to be getting to this point.
It's My Life
Recently I've realised something. No matter how hectic or busy my life becomes, I always make room for music and writing. I've attempted a couple of times to join both interests into lyrics, but I've found I don't have that skill at the moment. Even when my daily life if far from predictable, I will always make at least five minutes to right something and to listen to my music.
Skipping through my ipod selections can sometimes be interesting. Just now it jumped from Avenged Sevenfold to Van Halen then Adele. Many people seem to have more specific tastes, but mine jump around. For example, I can go from listening to Disturbed to Sir Mix-A-Lot. It can be confusing sometimes.
Anyway, I think my rant concerning my music is over. Hope y'all enjoy the rest of your day. I'm off to do something productive.
Skipping through my ipod selections can sometimes be interesting. Just now it jumped from Avenged Sevenfold to Van Halen then Adele. Many people seem to have more specific tastes, but mine jump around. For example, I can go from listening to Disturbed to Sir Mix-A-Lot. It can be confusing sometimes.
Anyway, I think my rant concerning my music is over. Hope y'all enjoy the rest of your day. I'm off to do something productive.
Road Tripping
Last week, while I was off uni for my mid semester break, my sister, dad and I went road tripping around some of our area. We saw some of the sights that the top of the north island has to offer and I was reminded how beautiful the country I live in is. Along the way I took many pictures t remember the trip by and spent a couple of nights in different motels. seeing sights ranging falling down churches in the middle of nowhere, the oldest church in the country and a tree thought to have been a seedling around the time of christ.
It really is amazing to see what New Zealand has to offer. Although I'd been to most places before, visiting your own backyard is always interesting. I really enjoyed the trip even though it meant spending hours sitting in a car over three days.
It really is amazing to see what New Zealand has to offer. Although I'd been to most places before, visiting your own backyard is always interesting. I really enjoyed the trip even though it meant spending hours sitting in a car over three days.
Change of Network
So a little while ago I did a post pretty much ranting about the cellphone networks in New Zealand. I'd used the services of the two main contenders and hadn't been satisfied with either. I was having money go missing when with Vodafone and coverage issues with Telecom, although I'd been with Telecom years earlier (their coverage is better now). However, both, I feel, have very poor customer service and are far too expensive. For a long time, it was like choosing your lesser evil.
Recently I had a little extra money to play with for the week and saw a deal on a new phone and sim package from 2Degrees. For a while I'd been wanting to try them out, so when this came up I pounced. It didn't help Vodafones case with having had five dollars from my account with them go missing about two weeks earlier. I will admit that the young lady I spoke with on the phone was very friendly and happy to help, but I didn't get all my money back. That event was the straw that broke the camels back.
Anyway, I've been with 2Degrees for almost two months now and so far I'm more than happy. I haven't had one issue that was very noticeable for long. I can't say they're perfect though. For about four hours a couple of weeks back I wasn't receiving any txt messages (and yes, I do know that people were txting me and it wasn't just a lack of that). In all reality this didn't really bother me. My best friend is on Telecom and she gets that regularly, but it's for a number of days, not simply a few hours.
But I couldn't sing 2Degrees praises louder. They're cheaper, nicer to deal with, more reliable and it's easier to monitor your account with them. I would any advise any other kiwi's still putting up with the other two to ditch them. Support New Zealand business and back the little man I say. Anyhow, peace out.
Recently I had a little extra money to play with for the week and saw a deal on a new phone and sim package from 2Degrees. For a while I'd been wanting to try them out, so when this came up I pounced. It didn't help Vodafones case with having had five dollars from my account with them go missing about two weeks earlier. I will admit that the young lady I spoke with on the phone was very friendly and happy to help, but I didn't get all my money back. That event was the straw that broke the camels back.
Anyway, I've been with 2Degrees for almost two months now and so far I'm more than happy. I haven't had one issue that was very noticeable for long. I can't say they're perfect though. For about four hours a couple of weeks back I wasn't receiving any txt messages (and yes, I do know that people were txting me and it wasn't just a lack of that). In all reality this didn't really bother me. My best friend is on Telecom and she gets that regularly, but it's for a number of days, not simply a few hours.
But I couldn't sing 2Degrees praises louder. They're cheaper, nicer to deal with, more reliable and it's easier to monitor your account with them. I would any advise any other kiwi's still putting up with the other two to ditch them. Support New Zealand business and back the little man I say. Anyhow, peace out.
Bouncy, bouncy
Well do I have a story for you guys. Today, while coming home from Uni, the car started to swerve across the road. I was in the back seat sitting next to my little sister and mum said we had a flat tire. My immediate thought was that it'd be okay.
It took me a moment to realise, where we were was a particularly dangerous stretch of road and has no cell phone reception. Next thing we know, the back right hand side of the car drops down and all control is lost.
The wheel appeared bouncing ahead of us, bouncing down the road. Slowly we came to a stop and assessed the situation. My step dad walked up the road to call for a tow truck and we managed to find a tiny spot of cell reception. We managed to get a hold of my sister and she came and got us.
Anyway, to cut a long story short, an hour later than normal, we're home, all safe, but with an amazing story to tell our mates. One lesson here (and we've to a tire guy), tighten your wheel nuts properly, cause if you don't, you could be seeming it bouncing off ahead of you.
It took me a moment to realise, where we were was a particularly dangerous stretch of road and has no cell phone reception. Next thing we know, the back right hand side of the car drops down and all control is lost.
The wheel appeared bouncing ahead of us, bouncing down the road. Slowly we came to a stop and assessed the situation. My step dad walked up the road to call for a tow truck and we managed to find a tiny spot of cell reception. We managed to get a hold of my sister and she came and got us.
Anyway, to cut a long story short, an hour later than normal, we're home, all safe, but with an amazing story to tell our mates. One lesson here (and we've to a tire guy), tighten your wheel nuts properly, cause if you don't, you could be seeming it bouncing off ahead of you.
Motivation
Perhaps for those who find motivation easy, this post may not relate to you. However, it could also help provide some insight into what it's like to struggle to find reasons to get things done. For those of you who do find it difficult to find motivation, then hopefully this post could give some suggestions on how to find some.
For me, motivation does not come naturally. It can be difficult for me to find reasons to continue with something I find difficult. It's not necessarily the fact that I find it difficult, but more the fact that it's difficult for me to stay engaged. If something doesn't interest me, or challenge me, I'll find it difficult to stick with it. If this sounds like you, please keep reading. I've recently found ways to help myself keep motivated.
The best way I've found to keep myself interested on a task is to give myself a schedule. If I plan my time then I find it a lot easier to stick with what I need to get done. If I know what I have to do, but don't have a plan, then I'll procrastinate. My procrastination leads to stress which in turn leads to more procrastinating. For me, not having a plan turns into a vicious cycle. If I plan all my time, I know what needs to get done and when I need to have it done.
For other people, making a schedule doesn't work so well. For these types of people I think it's important to keep in mind that there are other ways to make sure you get everything done. Some thrive on pressure and leave everything to the last minute. What I think is most important for these people, is to explain that to others. I've watched as others, who didn't understand this thought, judge those who work this way. Those of us who need to plan need to accept that not everyone works like this. Stressing about someone else is not going to help you.
My last note would be to those who need the help. If you find yourself struggling with motivation, find ways to create interest in what you're doing, but also make sure you're having time for yourself. Go listen to some music. Sit down and read a book for half an hour before bed. Whatever it is that you find calming, make time for that. Personally I think this is very important for parents. I've listened to parents of young children scoff at the thought of having time for themselves, but, you can not look after someone else if you're not looking after yourself.
If you need help, do the research. Deficiency in vitamins and minerals can make life difficult, as well as underlined problems which haven't been addressed. Do some googling and find a way to get through, because there is a way. Also, support those who need it, you'll feel better about who you are at the end of the day if you do.
For me, motivation does not come naturally. It can be difficult for me to find reasons to continue with something I find difficult. It's not necessarily the fact that I find it difficult, but more the fact that it's difficult for me to stay engaged. If something doesn't interest me, or challenge me, I'll find it difficult to stick with it. If this sounds like you, please keep reading. I've recently found ways to help myself keep motivated.
The best way I've found to keep myself interested on a task is to give myself a schedule. If I plan my time then I find it a lot easier to stick with what I need to get done. If I know what I have to do, but don't have a plan, then I'll procrastinate. My procrastination leads to stress which in turn leads to more procrastinating. For me, not having a plan turns into a vicious cycle. If I plan all my time, I know what needs to get done and when I need to have it done.
For other people, making a schedule doesn't work so well. For these types of people I think it's important to keep in mind that there are other ways to make sure you get everything done. Some thrive on pressure and leave everything to the last minute. What I think is most important for these people, is to explain that to others. I've watched as others, who didn't understand this thought, judge those who work this way. Those of us who need to plan need to accept that not everyone works like this. Stressing about someone else is not going to help you.
My last note would be to those who need the help. If you find yourself struggling with motivation, find ways to create interest in what you're doing, but also make sure you're having time for yourself. Go listen to some music. Sit down and read a book for half an hour before bed. Whatever it is that you find calming, make time for that. Personally I think this is very important for parents. I've listened to parents of young children scoff at the thought of having time for themselves, but, you can not look after someone else if you're not looking after yourself.
If you need help, do the research. Deficiency in vitamins and minerals can make life difficult, as well as underlined problems which haven't been addressed. Do some googling and find a way to get through, because there is a way. Also, support those who need it, you'll feel better about who you are at the end of the day if you do.
Domination
After a relatively short discussion with a good friend I realised something. I, as a consumer, seem to be sucked in by the big brands. My apple desktop which is in sever need of an update, was once top of the line, even if I didn't get it new. My Hewlett Packard laptop was best value for money and often considered top of the line for what it is. Even my iPod was made by the computer giant apple.
Not only do I buy the big products, but I use the big brands online as well. Google is my go to search engine and holds my emails, blogs and occasional document. Facebook is my main way to stay in contact with friends who have moved away for various different reasons. Twitter is my way of staying up to date with the world around me.
Realising this made me think for a moment about the type of power these companies hold. I'm a devoted apple user, and would own only their products if I could. I've only moments installed Google Drive in a hope to have another backup of my documents. Without these products, what would I do? I wouldn't be able to ensure the safety of my writing and my understanding of computers would be far more limited. The big technology companies have a hold on us all. We need them, but they need us too. Without customer satisfaction, no one would use their products.
The competition between these companies drives capitalism but it also drives new advancements within technology and how we live. My last point I would like to make, is one to make you think. Eventually, with all these new progresses in technology, will we still be able to live without them. Will, one day, the human race be unable to survive without technology?
Not only do I buy the big products, but I use the big brands online as well. Google is my go to search engine and holds my emails, blogs and occasional document. Facebook is my main way to stay in contact with friends who have moved away for various different reasons. Twitter is my way of staying up to date with the world around me.
Realising this made me think for a moment about the type of power these companies hold. I'm a devoted apple user, and would own only their products if I could. I've only moments installed Google Drive in a hope to have another backup of my documents. Without these products, what would I do? I wouldn't be able to ensure the safety of my writing and my understanding of computers would be far more limited. The big technology companies have a hold on us all. We need them, but they need us too. Without customer satisfaction, no one would use their products.
The competition between these companies drives capitalism but it also drives new advancements within technology and how we live. My last point I would like to make, is one to make you think. Eventually, with all these new progresses in technology, will we still be able to live without them. Will, one day, the human race be unable to survive without technology?
A Familiar Difference
As my second semester begins I'm faced with a new timetable, new textbooks and a different schedule that I'm going to have to adjust to. On one hand my timetable is amazing, because I don't start most days till one, meaning I can sleep in, and I've also got Fridays off, but on the other hand, I don't finish until two hours later than last semester, and the lectures I have are all one after another each day, leaving pretty well no time to get from one end of the campus to the other between my lectures.
Anyway, none of this is really important, what actually is, is the activities that the new semester brings. Today they're setting up skiing by shipping in snow to the quad area of the university. There are also events which solely people who have a university ID card can enter, such as a concert by a couple of local musicians.
What seems to be the most surprising for me, however, is that coming back from a substantial break, I feel as if I haven't had a break at all. Not exactly in the sense that I'm tired, but that everything is so familiar. I know where I can go to have a quiet place, or sit down and do some work on my laptop, like writing this post for example. I also know how long it takes to get places. At the start of last semester, everything took twice as long because I had no idea where anything was. Now, I can walk down the street knowing exactly where I'm going, and if need be, what buses will get me where.
With my daily routine consisting of lectures, study and hanging out with friends, it makes me wonder how this would change. I know there was a huge difference between university and high school, so does that mean, there's going to be a huge change between university and full time work?
Anyway, what I wanted to do with this post was to get people to think about their own lives, their routines, schedules and daily rituals. Are you happy in your life? If your not, what can you do to change it? If you are, how can you make it even better for you and those who love you? I hope everyone can find their little piece of happiness, and know that wherever you are, someone loves and cares about you.
Anyway, none of this is really important, what actually is, is the activities that the new semester brings. Today they're setting up skiing by shipping in snow to the quad area of the university. There are also events which solely people who have a university ID card can enter, such as a concert by a couple of local musicians.
What seems to be the most surprising for me, however, is that coming back from a substantial break, I feel as if I haven't had a break at all. Not exactly in the sense that I'm tired, but that everything is so familiar. I know where I can go to have a quiet place, or sit down and do some work on my laptop, like writing this post for example. I also know how long it takes to get places. At the start of last semester, everything took twice as long because I had no idea where anything was. Now, I can walk down the street knowing exactly where I'm going, and if need be, what buses will get me where.
With my daily routine consisting of lectures, study and hanging out with friends, it makes me wonder how this would change. I know there was a huge difference between university and high school, so does that mean, there's going to be a huge change between university and full time work?
Anyway, what I wanted to do with this post was to get people to think about their own lives, their routines, schedules and daily rituals. Are you happy in your life? If your not, what can you do to change it? If you are, how can you make it even better for you and those who love you? I hope everyone can find their little piece of happiness, and know that wherever you are, someone loves and cares about you.
Anita Blake
This series by Laurell K. Hamilton has got to be one of the few that I am devoted to, although less as the series progresses. This lot of books has been a huge inspiration to me in my own writing, mainly as I often make fan fictions of series I enjoy, and this one is no exception.
I'll try not to give away any of the story in this post as I hate it when others do. I do have to say that the seventh in the series would have to be my favorite, then the first follows closely behind. I would recommend this series to anyone who enjoys a read about the preternatural and supernatural. However, I'd place these books R16 and after about the 8th book, I'd place them as R18. They're raunchy, although I've been told that they don't compare to Fifty Shades Of Grey, but don't quote me, as I haven't read that series.
The main thing I like about this is the power of the main character, who the books get their titles from. She strong, mentally and physically, but she's realistic. For example, she has a great phobia of flying. For me this show of character helps to make the righting more believable, even with it being set in an alternate reality.
I'll try not to give away any of the story in this post as I hate it when others do. I do have to say that the seventh in the series would have to be my favorite, then the first follows closely behind. I would recommend this series to anyone who enjoys a read about the preternatural and supernatural. However, I'd place these books R16 and after about the 8th book, I'd place them as R18. They're raunchy, although I've been told that they don't compare to Fifty Shades Of Grey, but don't quote me, as I haven't read that series.
The main thing I like about this is the power of the main character, who the books get their titles from. She strong, mentally and physically, but she's realistic. For example, she has a great phobia of flying. For me this show of character helps to make the righting more believable, even with it being set in an alternate reality.
An Amazing Woman
A video on YouTube which was uploaded recently has gone viral and I find appalling. It's a group of boys who bullied a school bus monitor. Using hundreds of insults ranging from her weight to threats to stab her, this amazing woman just sits there and takes it all, with only a small number of retorts, all of which are nothing compared to the boys insults.
This woman, Karen Klein, 68, went through something that she never should have.
This may not be your typical case of bullying, but it's bullying all the same. This sort of thing has to stop. This video is ten minutes of horrid language and cruelty towards this woman. Parents need to stand up and take responsibility for the parenting of their children. Denial can no longer stand by and watch this culture of bullying within society. Please do something to stop these bullying situations.
On a last word, I want to say to Karen that she is a truly amazing woman. All across the world we're supporting you, and you'll never be without a shoulder.
This woman, Karen Klein, 68, went through something that she never should have.
This may not be your typical case of bullying, but it's bullying all the same. This sort of thing has to stop. This video is ten minutes of horrid language and cruelty towards this woman. Parents need to stand up and take responsibility for the parenting of their children. Denial can no longer stand by and watch this culture of bullying within society. Please do something to stop these bullying situations.
On a last word, I want to say to Karen that she is a truly amazing woman. All across the world we're supporting you, and you'll never be without a shoulder.
Examinations
Hi all, I'm not sure if many of you will have realised how little I've been posting recently, as I'm not certain how many of you are repeat visitors (if you are, thanks heaps). My absolute lack of consistent posting is mostly due to how busy university life has kept me. When assignments and tests are piled on I tend to neglect my blogging duties (sorry about that). Currently, as I'm sitting in my favourite campus coffee shop I'm procrastinating, and blogging is an amazing way to do this.
Exams have appeared in my life again and I'm dreading the amount of study I still have to go. I've sat three out of four exams but my hardest one is the one that I have left. Somehow I just can't bring myself to study for it, and that makes me wonder if many people are masters of procrastination like myself. I do, however, have a small excuse, I have only half an hour ago, walked out of my only exam for this week.
I do think I need to somehow thank the people responsible for my exam timetable though. It's been great. I've had almost a week between each exam, and although that means the whole thing is drawn out more, it also means that I can undertake more focused study between my exams and it's helped minimise my stress level.
Anyway, enough of the irrelevant, I wanted to ask you all, how many of you are repeat watches and if you've only just found me, how did you do so? Please help me make my posting more interesting by leaving comments bellow and help me to know what sort of people this blog appeals to, if any.
Exams have appeared in my life again and I'm dreading the amount of study I still have to go. I've sat three out of four exams but my hardest one is the one that I have left. Somehow I just can't bring myself to study for it, and that makes me wonder if many people are masters of procrastination like myself. I do, however, have a small excuse, I have only half an hour ago, walked out of my only exam for this week.
I do think I need to somehow thank the people responsible for my exam timetable though. It's been great. I've had almost a week between each exam, and although that means the whole thing is drawn out more, it also means that I can undertake more focused study between my exams and it's helped minimise my stress level.
Anyway, enough of the irrelevant, I wanted to ask you all, how many of you are repeat watches and if you've only just found me, how did you do so? Please help me make my posting more interesting by leaving comments bellow and help me to know what sort of people this blog appeals to, if any.
Operation Beautiful
Self esteem. A hard topic for many young people today. Operation beautiful is all about helping others get the confidence that every person should have within life. A good friend of mine writes 'PostIt' notes and places them around our university and the surrounding city. It's just one way which can make others feel good about themselves. I know that her words have helped me while in darker places.
Consider others for a day, it's all I wish. Help someone else realise their potential, after all, a friendly smile can go a lot further than most people realise.
http://operationbeautiful.com/
Consider others for a day, it's all I wish. Help someone else realise their potential, after all, a friendly smile can go a lot further than most people realise.
http://operationbeautiful.com/
Dragon Age
Being usually unable to play many of the new games which come on the market due to my lack of the latest consoles I'm often stuck playing old games which have been around for years with out of date graphics and overused story lines. Thanks to my older brother, this changed for a night. He came to stay and brought his PlayStation 3 with him, along with an assortment of games. He pointed it out as soon as I got home and very quickly got into trying to convince me to give the games a go. He also knows full well that out of anyone in the family, I'm probably the biggest gamer, except for maybe him.
My reluctance to be pulled into a game was somewhat founded, as I have assignments due within the next few days, but he still managed to convince me, which, if I'm honest, didn't really take that long. Thankfully (sort of) I'd all but finished one of the assignments and had finished the other. So my night was wasted on a role playing game which I had read about, heard people talk about, but never had the opportunity to play. Dragon Age.
As soon as I started playing, it became very apparent that this was my sort of game, the sort I get hooked on all too easily. I couldn't get far into the game but I still enjoyed it immensely. It wasn't so simple that I was simply on auto-pilot, like many of a game is. I actually had to think a few times, using common sense and a little bit of initiative. It always bugs me when you get a game that looks good but turns out to be so simple it's not worth playing.
Being able to create your own character, starting with a simple background and skills to being either human, elven or a dwarf, it made the game more personal. Your character wasn't entirely generic so this helped add a vested interest. You wanted your character to do well because you created them, or that's partly how I felt anyway.
With a comprehensive background story it made the game more entertaining, you got to learn about the world you've been thrown into with the gaming experience and you got to make your own choices along the way. How you reacted to other characters and situations would partly determine how the game went. Schmooze the right people and they'd help you on your quest. Annoy someone and it could make your quest more difficult, it all depended what type of person you wanted your character to be. If you wanted to be an ass then you could be, and the same could be said in reverse.
Anyhow, I enjoyed the game, what little I got to play of it and am really hoping I get to try the computer version of it soon. If you're a person who enjoys a fantasy role play game, then I'd recommend Dragon Age. It's not just a game where you sit back and shoot, it's one where what you do counts for the rest of the game. Happy gaming everyone.
My reluctance to be pulled into a game was somewhat founded, as I have assignments due within the next few days, but he still managed to convince me, which, if I'm honest, didn't really take that long. Thankfully (sort of) I'd all but finished one of the assignments and had finished the other. So my night was wasted on a role playing game which I had read about, heard people talk about, but never had the opportunity to play. Dragon Age.
As soon as I started playing, it became very apparent that this was my sort of game, the sort I get hooked on all too easily. I couldn't get far into the game but I still enjoyed it immensely. It wasn't so simple that I was simply on auto-pilot, like many of a game is. I actually had to think a few times, using common sense and a little bit of initiative. It always bugs me when you get a game that looks good but turns out to be so simple it's not worth playing.
Being able to create your own character, starting with a simple background and skills to being either human, elven or a dwarf, it made the game more personal. Your character wasn't entirely generic so this helped add a vested interest. You wanted your character to do well because you created them, or that's partly how I felt anyway.
With a comprehensive background story it made the game more entertaining, you got to learn about the world you've been thrown into with the gaming experience and you got to make your own choices along the way. How you reacted to other characters and situations would partly determine how the game went. Schmooze the right people and they'd help you on your quest. Annoy someone and it could make your quest more difficult, it all depended what type of person you wanted your character to be. If you wanted to be an ass then you could be, and the same could be said in reverse.
Anyhow, I enjoyed the game, what little I got to play of it and am really hoping I get to try the computer version of it soon. If you're a person who enjoys a fantasy role play game, then I'd recommend Dragon Age. It's not just a game where you sit back and shoot, it's one where what you do counts for the rest of the game. Happy gaming everyone.
The Avengers
A movie that I had been looking forward to ever since I heard about it was the Avengers. Slightly more than a week ago I managed to go see it in the theatres and I was not disappointed, even if at times I found it a little predictable.
The action scenes were well done and were what pretty much the whole movie consisted of. Although at times I love to be able to sit down and really think about a movie and be guessing until the end, I was happy that I wasn't in that mood.
It is important, however, to make sure that you've seen all the other movies that this one revolves around before you see the Avengers (Iron Man, Captain America, Hulk, Thor). I hadn't seen Captain America until after I saw the Avengers, so I found it slightly boring. That was simply because the Avengers gave a brief background of most of the hero's. It meant that I knew how Captain America ended before I'd even seen the first second.
If you're looking for a love story or a movie you could fall asleep in, then this would not be your movie, but if you want a fun, enjoyable watch, then I would say the Avengers would be good for you.
I also have the feeling that there could be a movie coming up revolving around Scarlett Johansson's character, The Black Widow, but I could be wrong there.
The action scenes were well done and were what pretty much the whole movie consisted of. Although at times I love to be able to sit down and really think about a movie and be guessing until the end, I was happy that I wasn't in that mood.
It is important, however, to make sure that you've seen all the other movies that this one revolves around before you see the Avengers (Iron Man, Captain America, Hulk, Thor). I hadn't seen Captain America until after I saw the Avengers, so I found it slightly boring. That was simply because the Avengers gave a brief background of most of the hero's. It meant that I knew how Captain America ended before I'd even seen the first second.
If you're looking for a love story or a movie you could fall asleep in, then this would not be your movie, but if you want a fun, enjoyable watch, then I would say the Avengers would be good for you.
I also have the feeling that there could be a movie coming up revolving around Scarlett Johansson's character, The Black Widow, but I could be wrong there.
Beginning A New Chapter
Recently I made decision which, I think, has already changed my life. Within today's world it's more than easy to become very insecure and shy away from anything that you fear. I have been one of those people who let fear rule every action I made, and that had greater consequences than one might think.
Being controlled by my fear not only made me miss out on many experiences and situations because I'd avoid the unknown, but I also started to become very angry and bitter. The inner fight with myself would make me feel so lost that whenever someone else would question me I'd get extremely offended, no matter how small the issue was. I started to realise I was turning into the type of person I really never wanted to be. I knew I had to make a change, but the hardest part was actually following through with that change.
I made I conscious choice to overcome my fear, literally. At first my goal was to do something at least once a week that I was afraid of. However, I found this was too easy to avoid. The week was too long and I'd end up developing excuses to why I couldn't do it that week. So I changed my tactic somewhat. My new goal became to face fear in the face whenever the situation arose. I had to keep a level head and follow through with the action, whatever that might be.
Anyway, my point here isn't to monologue but to share a piece of advice that I truly wish I'd followed sooner. Feel the fear and do it anyway, or do something everyday which frightens you. I can't explain how liberated I now feel. I am learning my own power and am developing ways to use it. I can actually do things that make me feel sick to the stomach when thinking about them. But I think at the same time you need to be sensible about the way your approach things. If you fear something because it's dangerous, then think it through. If the risk is high, perhaps move to the next thing. The last thing I want to do is encourage people to put themselves in jeopardy.
Use common sense, but never let worry or self doubt get in your way. We're all capable of great things, the way we get there is through courage and faith. Keep the Faith.
As a good friend of mine recently told me, there can be no courage without first there being fear.
Being controlled by my fear not only made me miss out on many experiences and situations because I'd avoid the unknown, but I also started to become very angry and bitter. The inner fight with myself would make me feel so lost that whenever someone else would question me I'd get extremely offended, no matter how small the issue was. I started to realise I was turning into the type of person I really never wanted to be. I knew I had to make a change, but the hardest part was actually following through with that change.
I made I conscious choice to overcome my fear, literally. At first my goal was to do something at least once a week that I was afraid of. However, I found this was too easy to avoid. The week was too long and I'd end up developing excuses to why I couldn't do it that week. So I changed my tactic somewhat. My new goal became to face fear in the face whenever the situation arose. I had to keep a level head and follow through with the action, whatever that might be.
Anyway, my point here isn't to monologue but to share a piece of advice that I truly wish I'd followed sooner. Feel the fear and do it anyway, or do something everyday which frightens you. I can't explain how liberated I now feel. I am learning my own power and am developing ways to use it. I can actually do things that make me feel sick to the stomach when thinking about them. But I think at the same time you need to be sensible about the way your approach things. If you fear something because it's dangerous, then think it through. If the risk is high, perhaps move to the next thing. The last thing I want to do is encourage people to put themselves in jeopardy.
Use common sense, but never let worry or self doubt get in your way. We're all capable of great things, the way we get there is through courage and faith. Keep the Faith.
As a good friend of mine recently told me, there can be no courage without first there being fear.
Hype
I'm sure most, if not all of you would have heard about 'The Hunger Games'. A couple of weeks ago I saw it in the theaters. I wont deny that I enjoyed it. But I'm not sure I'd by into all the hype surrounding it. I had it worked out from about twenty minuets in and was just having my suspicions confirmed throughout the rest of it. I did, however, love the idea of a female heroine. We're surrounding with so many ideas that women are soft and weak and couldn't beat a man without cheating somehow. It makes growing up as a young woman very difficult at times. The introduction of a strong and unique female character, I hope, will make being a girl that little bit nicer.
Whether or not others enjoy this movie is entirely down to personal choice, but if it means anything at all into your choice to see it, then I would watch this movie again. I thought that the undertaking of this film was well done and I didn't pick up anything that I could identify as poorly executed. I wouldn't go as far as saying that it's the next 'Harry Potter', but I do think that 'The Hunger Games', could be one of the defining films of an era.
Whether or not others enjoy this movie is entirely down to personal choice, but if it means anything at all into your choice to see it, then I would watch this movie again. I thought that the undertaking of this film was well done and I didn't pick up anything that I could identify as poorly executed. I wouldn't go as far as saying that it's the next 'Harry Potter', but I do think that 'The Hunger Games', could be one of the defining films of an era.
An Acceptance and Expression of Gratitude
My younger sister is in a matter of months is due to be published. It will be her first works to be published and it is a series titled 'Genetics'. I am extreemly proud of her and wish her all the best for her book. I would also love to thank her for her touching words on her blog earlier today. You can find her at:
http://reeganhill.blogspot.co.nz/
I would ask that you give her some of your time. She really is a lovely person and her writing seems to be rather skilled. She's only alowed me to read snippets of this fist book, so I will be as interested as any of her perspective readers. I've seen the many hours of hard work she's put into her writing and how that's effected her. She's even managed to get RSI from writing too much.
Check out her blog for more details about plots, release dates etc.
http://reeganhill.blogspot.co.nz/
I would ask that you give her some of your time. She really is a lovely person and her writing seems to be rather skilled. She's only alowed me to read snippets of this fist book, so I will be as interested as any of her perspective readers. I've seen the many hours of hard work she's put into her writing and how that's effected her. She's even managed to get RSI from writing too much.
Check out her blog for more details about plots, release dates etc.
University Life
So I've now been a university student for a month and already I'm starting to get the hang of things. Although I do wish I'd believed people when they'd told me that it was going to be a lot more laid back than high school. For anyone else who's recently come into the world of Tertiary study, they'll more than likely know exactly what I mean.
I do want to say one word of advice however, whatever the circumstances, you have to make your study a priority if you wish to achieve the good marks we all desire. Even if there's a million other things you'd rather be doing, or think need doing more urgently, make sure you make room to study most nights. It's easy to get caught up with life then realise you've got a test or assignment coming up that you've done minimal work towards. And never cheat, with today's technology and lecturers forever having a keen eye out for wrong doers, the chance of you getting away with it is pretty much nothing.
Anyway, enough of my dribble. I want to get my readers involved. What's people's views on tertiary study? Is it worth it? Should the systems that in place be changed, and if so, to what?
I'd really love to hear your thoughts about it. You can leave a comment below.
I do want to say one word of advice however, whatever the circumstances, you have to make your study a priority if you wish to achieve the good marks we all desire. Even if there's a million other things you'd rather be doing, or think need doing more urgently, make sure you make room to study most nights. It's easy to get caught up with life then realise you've got a test or assignment coming up that you've done minimal work towards. And never cheat, with today's technology and lecturers forever having a keen eye out for wrong doers, the chance of you getting away with it is pretty much nothing.
Anyway, enough of my dribble. I want to get my readers involved. What's people's views on tertiary study? Is it worth it? Should the systems that in place be changed, and if so, to what?
I'd really love to hear your thoughts about it. You can leave a comment below.
It's Time To Change Our World
It's time to change our world.
Joseph Kony.
Invisible Children.
Kony 2012.
The world has to know, we have to do something, and we can ALL do something.
Joseph Kony is who I identify as true evil. Invisible Children Inc. was formed to stop his atrocities.
I joined the movement a couple of years ago, desperate to make a contribution. Please check this out, please spread the word, even if that's all you do.
invisiblechildren.com
kony2012.com
Joseph Kony.
Invisible Children.
Kony 2012.
The world has to know, we have to do something, and we can ALL do something.
Joseph Kony is who I identify as true evil. Invisible Children Inc. was formed to stop his atrocities.
I joined the movement a couple of years ago, desperate to make a contribution. Please check this out, please spread the word, even if that's all you do.
invisiblechildren.com
kony2012.com
Another installment
This extract is from one of my stories that a blogged about a few months back titled 'The Vatican'. The following is from earlier in the story line than the previous extract.
“Get a knife.” Iwhispered softly and she nodded, getting one of the few knives that were in theroom. I walked up to the door and looked back at Abigail. She stood slightlybehind me and to the side, out of the view of the door if it opened. She wouldbe ready if anyone tried to hurt me.
I opened the door acrack to see three men standing looking at me.
“We don’t mean youany harm.” They said softly.
“Prove it.” I saidand Abigail raised the knife a little, she looked ready to stab someone at anysignal. The man closest reached into his pocket and pulled out a little leathercase like thing. It looked as if it was designed to hold an FBI badge orsomething similar.
He flipped it openand handed it to me. I almost expected not to know what it was. I did however.It was the Vatican coat of arms. Maybe my interest in history could serve mewell tonight.
On the top of it, inred and yellow writing, it said Vatican City. Underneath it had the Latin motto‘Status Civitatis Vaticanae’. I steered at it for a moment. On the other sideof the case it said in plain black writing, ‘Swiss Guard, PreternaturalDivision’.
I looked up at themand there expressions hadn’t changed.
“Satisfied?” heasked. I pause and handed it to Abigail. She looked down at it then froze.
“You’re shitting usright?” I asked and his lips twitched.
“No, I am notshitting you.” He said in a bland voice. I burst out laughing. He had justquoted ‘Terminator 3, Raise of the Machines’. He looked at me sideways but Ithink the guy behind him understood. He smiled but then hid his face.
The smiler was aboutAbigail’s height, five’ seven’’. The guy whose badge I had was about six’five’’. The other guy was between the two and nothing seemed to move him fromhis solemn expression. He was built like nothing else as well.
“I’m Castiel, thisis Zebra and Barney.” The tall guy said motioning towards the short guy thenthe bulky guy. Abigail snickered at the second name and I did my best to keep astraight face.
“Right” I said butdidn’t move. I handed back his badge.
“May we come in toask you some questions?” Castiel asked politely. I looked across at Abigail andshe shrugged.
“Hang onto that.” Isaid to her and moved to the side. They came in and all eyed the knife in Abigail’shand in turn.
“You’re not takingany chances are you?” Zebra asked and we both shook our heads. I sat down on mybed next to my suitcase. Slowly I reached into it and got out my pocketknife,hiding it up my sleeve. I had the same feeling about Castiel that I did aboutthe guy who attacked us earlier.
“Hey Barney, do youever burst into a dinosaur?” Abigail asked and he looked at her with a boredexpression.
“You realise he’sheard it all before don’t you?” Castiel said with a small smile, apparently hefound it funny too.
“What do you want?”I asked defensively.
“To protect you andfind out who attacked you.” Barney said and I shrugged.
“Don’t know hisname.” I said and they nodded.
“We didn’t expectyou to. We just thought that you could give us some sort of description ofhim.” Barney replied.
“Hot.” Abigail saidand we all looked at her. She grinned sheepishly. “What?” Castiel smiled thenturned back to me.
“Next time you’re onthe run try not to use your credit card.” He said and I nodded.
“I didn’t reallyhave a choice. I thought a motel room would be more secure than sleeping in thecar.” I said and he nodded.
“We should get thetwo of you home. We have the perimeter sealed off. You’ll be safer there, andwe’ll be able to protect you easier.” Barney said and I nodded. I zipped up mysuitcase and Abigail grabbed hers.
“I’ll go get in thecar.” She said and I nodded. She walked for the door and I went to lift mysuitcase off the bed. It pulled on my shoulder.
“Fuck.” I said undermy breath and dropped it.
“What’s wrong?” Castielasked and I shook my head.
“That damn assholebit me.” I said and he looked sideways at me.
“Take your shirtoff.” He ordered.
“Excuse me.” Ireplied and he rolled his eyes.
“I just want to seehow bad it is, nothing dodgy, I swear.” He said and held his hands up. Ithought about it for a moment. I sighed.
“Nothing dodgy” Iasked quietly.
“I promise.” Hereplied and I sighed again lifting my shirt over my head. I was glad that thebra I wore hid almost everything. He walked up to me and turned my head to theside away from the bite. He put the side of his finger beside the bite and Idrew my breath in with a sharp hiss.
“Shit, that looksbrutal.” Zebra said softly. Abigail stood waiting by the door, looking slightlyamused. I stuck my tongue out at her and she grinned.
Castiel stepped awayfrom me and I put my top back on.
“I’ll dress itproperly for you when we get you back to your place.” He said and we left themotel. God I was glad to be rid of the place.
Copyright Alyssa Hill
The Forks
Up in the Tararua Ranges there's an absolutely gorgeous campground which I've just gotten home from camping at. After almost a week out there I took a great number of stunning photos trying to capture the majesty of the native bush that cover the mountainous peaks where the frigid waters of the river wines its way down towards the Tasman Sea. With no Cellphone reception or electricity it was a time to get back to the basics. Sleeping in a tent and freezing at night on air-beds that deflate by about midnight, it was really all about the experience.
While it's meant to be the height of summer, I was still bundled up in layers of thermals and thick jumpers most of the time. We only had one day where you could tell the season, and the sun chose the worst day to make its appearance. We had to pack everything up in the blistering heat when we'd dressed for the cold we'd come to recognize.
Despite the weather, it was impossible to ignore just how amazing the surroundings were that we were in. With the sound of native bats and Morporks lulling us to sleep, we knew we were really in the middle of nowhere. Even the road wasn't for the faint hearted. Although I'm exhausted and extremely sore from all the tramping and accidents we had, and even with the minor cuts, bug bites, and bruises I sustained, I'd never pass up the opportunity to go back. There's something about the place which I find mystifying, and is absolutely indescribable in its beauty.
While it's meant to be the height of summer, I was still bundled up in layers of thermals and thick jumpers most of the time. We only had one day where you could tell the season, and the sun chose the worst day to make its appearance. We had to pack everything up in the blistering heat when we'd dressed for the cold we'd come to recognize.
Despite the weather, it was impossible to ignore just how amazing the surroundings were that we were in. With the sound of native bats and Morporks lulling us to sleep, we knew we were really in the middle of nowhere. Even the road wasn't for the faint hearted. Although I'm exhausted and extremely sore from all the tramping and accidents we had, and even with the minor cuts, bug bites, and bruises I sustained, I'd never pass up the opportunity to go back. There's something about the place which I find mystifying, and is absolutely indescribable in its beauty.
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| My awesome Dad crossing the river |
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| The New Zealand endemic Pigeon, known as the Wood Pigeon or Kererū in Maori |
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| My very tolerant little sister who was very patient with me after I managed to cut my foot the day earlier. |
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| A Huntsman spider which was sun bathing beside the river where we stopped to take a rest after a difficult walk. |
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| The view from the window of the plane on the way back home. |
Mythology and I
I, personally, have an extreme interest in mythology and folk lore from around the globe. It both drives me to write and gives me a topic to concentrate my mind on when trying to develop a story and to make it as credible as possible. It also shows something that I believe todays western society as come to ignore. Many of us enjoy a good horror or fantasy but don't look any further into the story.
That's what I love the most about mythology. It shows people's ideas and beliefs around things that couldn't be described in their daily lives.
Whether I'm researching Hell Hounds, Lamias or Naga, it is rear I'm not thinking about what to do next revolving around this topic. I find it easy to get lost in the ideas and symbology and even easier to sit on the internet searching for the smallest information that I didn't know before.
I just hope that these stories and tales never get lost or forgotten, as I believe they can enrich us all.
If you want to see just what I research, and know a little more about why I do, visit my other blog at:
It's only new so doesn't have many different topics, but it's just a taste of what I hope it'll be one day.
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