RESOLUTIONS

It's almost time to make my ill-fated New Year resolutions. Every New Year's Eve I eat, drink and party too much. I wake up the next morning with my head in my hands saying never again. I then proceed to make a list of goals. I expect to achieve these milestones just because it's a brand new year. Sound familiar?

I've decided to think about my resolutions early this year before my mind goes hazy from too much drink and convinces me I can achieve anything just because I wrote it down.

In previous years I decided I would become fitter. I come from a family of runners - grandad, mum, dad and auntie. Unfortunately, I missed out on the running gene, much to the amusement of my family.

One of my greatest sporting achievements was never setting foot in the school pool. I became my sports teacher's favourite student. Not because I excelled in sports but because I could always be relied on to deliver his messages as I had forgotten my gym gear AGAIN.

Back in England my favourite sports class was cross country running. My friend Becky and I would lag behind the others until they were out of sight then head back to her place for a smoke and a coffee. We'd keep an eye on the road and tag on at the end with the stragglers.

It was all fun and games at the time but I paid the price later as an adult. I always have to work that much harder to keep up with my friends and family because my body has been trained to be lazy. I love walking and swimming these days and I'm becoming healthier all the time. Where was I going with this story?

Each year my parents run Round The Bays. It's a popular fun run around the Auckland water front. They ask me to participate every year. I think they ask me as a cruel joke but this year I am going to do it. My mother will probably think it's the best joke she's heard all year when I tell her. I'm not sure how much running will be done, it's rather difficult to restrain my bosoms but I'll definitely walk round.

I have in my hot hand the training schedule which looks quite easy actually. The hardest part for me will be being part of a huge crowd. I don't enjoy being around large crowds of people. I was discussing this point recently with some friends and we decided we could always do the walk on a different day - it's completing the goal which is important, not when we do it.



DAY 1

Today's training was a breeze. If I can keep up this regime, I'll be as fit as a fiddle in no time. Today was a rest day. I kid you not, hehe. What on earth does the expression fit as a fiddle mean anyway? How can a fiddle be fit? The mind boggles.

I've rambled on long enough. Wish me luck.

Happy New Year

Love KB
xxx

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Yes, the silly season is finally getting to me. Hope you enjoy my video.









I'll be heading to the beach for a while after Christmas. Have fun this festive season. Take care of yourselves and have a drink on my behalf.

Lots of Love Secret Santa

xxx

SUNDAY SCRIBBLINGS - LATE

This week's prompt is late.


Earlier this week I accompanied a friend of mine to the Family Planning Clinic. This was the first time I'd visited Family Planning and I was curious to see what the place was like. I had visions of unwed mothers and unsavoury types loitering around. Very prejudiced of me I know but I thought this clinic was a place to go if you couldn't afford a visit to the doctor.

The place was different than I imagined; very welcoming and cosy. I approached the receptionist and informed her in hushed tones that we were here for the Family Planning Clinic. My friend and I sat ourselves down on the couch and waited. Two forty somethings sitting in the lounge with a couple of teenage girls. I felt rather out of place.

I sneaked a peak at the girls next to me while I read my magazine. They looked all of fifteen years old and absolutely terrified. I recognised the pained expression on one girl's face and remember years ago when I too was LATE. I felt such sorrow while I watched her as she entered the room, emerging a few minutes later with a brown paper bag and heading to the ladies room. Why don't they ever give you a bigger paper bag? Must be designed by a man. Sorry boys. She left the clinic a little later with tears in her eyes. She looked so young and vulnerable. Hardly able to take care of herself, never mind a little one. No doubt off to tell mum and dad she had a special surprise for them for Christmas. When you're so young, thinking you could be pregnant feels like the end of the world.

My friend and I were next in line. Our visit was very lighthearted and I managed to have the nurse in fits of laughter. Must have been a bit of a change from her usual visitors.

Maturity can make these experiences easier to deal with but I can still connect with that terrified girl inside of me. Knowledge has indeed made me wiser but I still make mistakes. How can we expect youngsters with no experience to make the right choices especially when they have all those hormones flying around? We can educate them and give them the right tools but in the end they will make their own choices.

SUNDAY SCRIBBLINGS - I KNEW INSTANTLY...

I KNEW INSTANTLY I was going to struggle with this prompt. I'm not a 'know instantly' kind of girl. I'm a ponderer, dweller, list maker, what ifer (that can't be a word). I'm sure you understand what I mean. Spontaneity is not my friend and I hate surprises. Anything spontaneous has to be arranged at least a week in advance and any surprise must be approved by me beforehand. I am exaggerating of course but only slightly.

I blame my mother. She is even guiltier of this than I am. Getting both of us to be spontaneous simultaneously is quite the accomplishment. Many have tried, few have succeeded.

I used to be embarrassed by this trait but now I accept it as being a part of who I am. Hubby has made it his personal mission to scare the shit...I mean surprise me on a regular basis. I'm pleased to say I'm getting more laid back each year. However, if he ever throws me a surprise party...I WILL kill him.

SEEK AND YOU SHALL FIND

Seekers are offered clues all the time from the world of the spirit. Ordinary people call these clues coincidences.

-Deepak Chopra

Until recently, I had never been a big believer in coincidences. I tried an exercise I found in a book. The idea was to write down and pay attention to coincidences for a week. For example, receiving a brochure in the mail regarding a course you are interested in, hearing a stranger give advice about the exact problem that's been keeping you up nights. That sort of thing.

I was surprised to have quite a long list by the end of the week. Not only did I notice them but I took action regarding some of them too. Now I'm wondering if these clues have been around me previously and I've missed them because I wasn't paying attention. Or, are they showing up because I am searching for them?

Hmm, very interesting.

FLASH 55 - PERFECT GRAMMER

I found it difficult to remain stationery as my principle sweatly explained this. The principals should be straigh forward as I speak the language everyday. although perfect grammer escapes me, I loved to play with words. For example - you can say you pricked your finger but a different meaning is apparent if you fingered your ...

.....................................................................................


HOW MANY MISTAKES CAN YOU FIND?


Flash Fiction - Every Friday, I compose a short story of 55 words - no more, no less. If you would like to join in the fun and games... post your story and report to the boss -

G-MAN

If you're not interested in contributing a story, feel free to read the other entries. I'm sure any comments you have would be appreciated.

Happy reading and writing!
Love
KB

BLONDE...KRAZY BLONDE

I've read a couple of scathing reviews of the new Bond film but I thoroughly enjoyed it. There were times I was certain I was watching scenes from the last Jason Bourne movie actually.

This movie was action packed, fast paced and surprisingly violent. I can recall only one of the usually included 'yeah right' stunts. Hopefully, Bond's days of flying down a mountain on a cello case are over.

In my opinion, the worst of 007 has been replaced but the old gems still remain. Daniel Craig is charismatic and totally droolworthy shirtless and M is as crabby as ever.

It's all good. Loved it!



LESSON FOR THE DAY

A two-hour motion picture uses around 3.3km of film.

DIABETES ON THE RISE

My local rag informs me that diabetes is on the rise in cats and dogs.

"At the moment we have four cats and 10 dogs diagnosed with diabetes and on insulin," says a local vet.

Symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination and eating more but appearing to lose weight.

Cats and dogs need insulin in most of these cases and an appropriate diet. The weight loss diet for cats has been dubbed the 'catkins' diet.

Yikes, sickening if you ask me. What are their owners feeding them?

I discussed this with a friend of mine who informed me her dog eats the same food she has for dinner. Erm, hello, he's a dog not a human.

I learned my lesson about giving Coco 'human' food. I fed her left over baked beans one night. The gas was nauseating. I felt like I was sitting on the edge of the bog of eternal stench. Even Coco looked embarrassed.


Oh dear

KB THE RED NOSED BLONDIE

A sad soul can kill you quicker than a germ.

- John Steinbeck


Looks like Rudolph can be given the night off this Christmas Eve. I have blown my nose so many times in the last couple of days, the red glow lights up the night sky.

Back to bed for me.

*blows nose AGAIN*



LESSON FOR THE DAY

The bird that lays the largest egg in relation to its own size is the Kiwi.

CHRISTMAS AT THE BEACH

This week's prompt is TRADITION.

T oes in the sand

R estless minds start to calm

A nother lazy day

D iving into the ocean

I magination abounds

T oasted marshmallows

I ntoxicating moonlight

O pen fire to dance around

N ourishment for the soul

A FIRST

For the first time in my life, I've completed my Christmas shopping and posted all my cards BERFORE Christmas Eve. Woohoo!

As many of you are aware, hubby is a pilot. Recently, tragedy struck the airline he flies for. Five of his colleagues and two German pilots were killed when the airbus they were aboard crashed into the Mediterranean.

According to French authorities, the plane broke up on impact and there is no chance of survivors being found. The cause of the crash has yet to be determined.

I am thankful hubby is home and safe. My heart goes out to the friends and family members of the men killed.

Each time I hear of a story like this, it reminds me how important it is to tell the people I love how much they mean to me.

Lots of love
KB
xxx

HAPPY NEWS

Both of my step-daughters will be in town for Christmas. Woohoo!

G has been living overseas for 18 months. She phoned yesterday to confirm she is on her way home and she'll be bringing her new fella with her. I haven't seen her for over a year. I'm very excited.

She also informed me she had a very blonde moment. She will be staying with her half sister for a short time in Melbourne, Australia. Unfortunately, she booked a ticket to Melbourne, USA. The airline wouldn't refund or exchange her ticket. She's out of pocket 250 English pounds.

H will be home soon too. Her audition for the film went well. She was called back again last week and it's still a toss up between her and another girl. The director asked her if she would be willing to dye her hair red for the role. One of my favourite blondes with red hair - can't wait to see that.

She's also been working on a short film. She's been putting in long hours, 4pm till 4am, six days a week. She made contact with another director while she was working on the film and he suggested she apply for a position at one of NZ's top acting schools. She was accepted on the spot.

I'm very proud of both of the girls and looking forward to seeing them soon.

PRISON BREAK IN

The third season of Prison Break has returned to our screens. I love this TV show. Not because of the plot, which is OK but because of some of the men.

These men have broken out of prison and are on the run from the law yet...

their hair is perfectly styled
their clothes are expensively tailored
their stubble is exactly the right length
even their sweat drips perfectly on their exquisitely toned bodies

They are drool worthy to say the least and all this beautiful grooming taken care of while being on the run for months.

Damn, if that's what prison inmates look like...let me in!

SUNDAY SCRIBBLINGS - A WINTER'S TALE

THIS PHOTO WAS TAKEN ACROSS THE ROAD FROM MY HOUSE IN ENGLAND. THERE'S ONLY A LITTLE SNOW HERE. CAN YOU SPOT A YOUNG KB?

I'm finding it difficult to write a winter's tale. It's a beautiful, sunny day on my side of the world.

The winters here are very mild in comparison to where I grew up in England. I remember school finishing early one day because there was a storm coming. My parents were at work so I took the bus home. I lived up on the Moors at the time. The ride usually took half an hour but the bus crawled up the hill, despite the fact the road had been salted due to previous snow fall.

I arrived at my stop around 4 o'clock. It was already dark outside - not unusual for an English winter afternoon.

I proceeded to make my way home in a snow blizzard. Not easy while carrying a violin, school books and gym gear. I still remember taking one step forward and being blown two steps back for quite some time. My hood fell back and I couldn't retrieve it as my hands were full. By the time I arrived home, my hands and face were raw and I was crying my eyes out in frustration from having to face the elements.

In the morning, there was snow backed up on one side of our house, covering our front door. We had to make our way down out of the second floor window. Cool fun for the kids but not so much for Mum. The school bus couldn't reach us for a few days - so sad, hehe.

So now, when people around me complain about how cold they are, I call them pussies and tell them they have no idea what feeling the cold is really like.

DO I KNOW YOU?

I was watching an episode of Seinfeld the other day. George was unsuccessfully trying to find the perfect come back line. He finally decided to tell his work buddies he had slept with their colleagues wife before being informed that this woman was in a coma. I laughed so much the tears were rolling down my cheeks for quite some time. I guess you had to be there but it reminded me of a little story.

A family friend was telling a tale about her daughter. They were out together recently, a man approached her daughter and asked if they knew each other. She was quite sure they had never met but the man persisted. He even went so far as to ask for her business card. Loser!

I wish I'd been there because I came up with the perfect response...maybe you knew me when I was a man.

I really must use that line some day.

THE KIWI PATIENT

Hubby's leg is healing nicely. His cast was removed a fortnight ago and he's been fitted with a moon boot. He's able to remove it to shower and sleep which is great.

I'm still busy playing nurse and driving him around to his appointments but he's finding it easier to get around and help me out a little more each day.

He has an appointment with a specialist soon and we're hoping he will be able to start driving again and be more mobile.

Anyway, that's why I haven't been around much. Miss you guys.

Take care
Love KB
xxxx

FLASH 55 - MISUNDERSTOOD

I discover a letter from days gone by. Images of Grandad flash before me - marathons, bible readings, games of chess, crossword puzzles, the fear of a nudge from his stick.

Tears flow as I realise why he kept many secrets from me. Stories of parachute jumps, friends lost, the cruelty of war.

A man misunderstood.

BACKGROUND INFO

A copy of a letter to a publisher was given to me after my Grandfather's death.
He was asked to submit to a book regarding his experiences during the War. Unfortunately, the family members I have spoken to have no idea if the letter was ever sent. I hope Grandad won't mind me sharing the letter with you. I would rather post it here than leave it sitting in a draw somewhere. It's rather long and hard to read in places so I'll begin typing it up now and post in a couple of days.

Love you Grandad. I wish I had know you better.
xxxxxxxxxx


Flash Fiction - Every Friday, I compose a short story of 55 words - no more, no less. If you would like to join in the fun and games... post your story and report to the boss -

G-MAN

If you're not interested in contributing a story, feel free to read the other entries. I'm sure any comments you have would be appreciated.

Happy reading and writing!
Love
KB

GRATEFUL

This week the prompt from Sunday Scribblings is - GRATEFUL

Grandma's cuddles
Freshly baked bread
Fairytale stories
Tucked up in bed

First true love
Joy holding hands
Sitting on benches
Making big plans

Family and children
Glowing with pride
Tiredness and sacrifice
Pushed to the side

Woman full grown
My time to shine
The simple life
Suits me just fine

THE STRANGER

This week's prompt for Sunday Scribblings isn't up yet so I'm going to try the prompt from last week - Stranger

It's a welcome change to have the pool area to myself. Ah, the perfect afternoon. After dangling my feet in the pool, sunning myself on the deck, enjoying a cold beer and a sandwich, I'm ready for an afternoon nap.

A shadow passes by, stirring me from peaceful slumber. I'm annoyed by this disruption to my solitude. From beneath my shades, I check out this intruder. He is a STRANGER to me but man would I like to know him better.

While feigning sleep, I watch him settle himself by the pool. He removes his watch and kicks off his shoes. I watch entranced as his long fingers unbutton his shirt. He is tall and lean. I imagine running my fingers through the hairs on his chest.

He opens a magazine and chuckles at the images before him. Unaware of my glances, he gently strokes his chin which appears to comfort him as he reads on. I imagine how the stubble on his face would feel against my body.

I stretch and yawn to attract his attention. I look over and he grins for ear to ear. My heart melts. He stands and runs into the arms of his lover...an equally attractive man. Bloody typical!

FLASH 55 - SUMMER ESCAPE

She closes her eyes. The smell of seaweed fills her nostrils, gentle waves lap against her feet, she tastes salt as she moistens her lips and feels the sun warming her golden skin.

She's never felt so alive. Salty tears return to the ocean as she let's go of life and surrenders to the sea.

Flash Fiction - Every Friday, I compose a short story of 55 words - no more, no less. If you would like to join in the fun and games... post your story and report to the boss -

G-MAN

If you're not interested in contributing a story, feel free to read the other entries. I'm sure any comments you have would be appreciated.

Happy reading and writing!
Love
KB
xxx

ELECTION DAY

This week's prompt from Sunday Scribblings is CHANGE.

It's Election Day in New Zealand. Our current Prime Minister - Helen Clark, has been in charge for 9 years and I believe a CHANGE is well overdue.

As I ponder my choices today I see the usual suspects: Labour, National, Alliance, Green, Act. There's a couple I've never noticed before too: The Bill and Ben Party and The Aotearoa Legalise Cannabis Party. The mind boggles.

Helen's party offers an interest free student loan. The students I have talked to will be voting for the Labour Party for this very reason. It's a smart move for Labour as New Zealanders rarely change their voting choice and these kids will continue to vote for them in the future.

I believe this is one of the major problems with the NZ voting style. We have the 'she'll be right' and 'it's better the devil you know' mentality rather than considering how a change may benefit our country.

Righto, I'm off to tick the boxes. I feel a CHANGE is in the air. Here's hoping my vote will make a difference.

Have a great weekend.

FLASH 55 - A DOG'S LIFE

I watch her soundly sleeping. She wastes the day away. The hardest decision before her - should she chew her bone or play?

She enjoys simple pleasures. The fact her life will end some day a reality she never has to ponder.

I imagine trading places...the concept of butt sniffing snaps me back to reality.


Flash Fiction - Every Friday, I compose a short story of 55 words - no more, no less. If you would like to join in the fun and games... post your story and report to the boss -

G-MAN

If you're not interested in contributing a story, feel free to read the other entries. I'm sure any comments you have would be appreciated.

Happy reading and writing!
Love
KB
xxx

THE WEEK THAT WAS - PART THREE

ASK YOURSELF BETTER QUESTIONS

Hubby and I are listening to a very informative personal development programme. Before you all cringe, it's actually interesting and I've learned a lot.

One of the assignments was to write down some common questions we ask ourselves on a regular basis. Some of the examples were:

Why does this always happen to me?

Why am I in a relationship that doesn't work?

Why did I do something so stupid?

The mind is a powerful tool. If you ask the above questions, your mind will search for the answers and focus on all the reasons...these things always happen to you, why your relationship doesn't work and why you are stupid.

Consider asking yourself better questions. Here are some I came up with:

How can I design a better life for myself and my loved ones and enjoy the process?

What can I learn from my relationships so I don't make the same mistakes again?

What's amusing about this situation and how can I learn from it?

Give it a try. Changing the questions you ask yourself really does take your focus in another direction.

I have to dash off now but I'll be back.

Love y'all
XXXX

THE WEEK THAT WAS - PART TWO

A STAR IN OUR MIDST?

One of my favourite blondes was in town last week. My youngest step-daughter came to Auckland to audition for a lead role in a film. She has made it to the final two and I'm sooooo proud of her. I'd appreciate it if you could keep your fingers crossed for her.

She came over for dinner and had us in stitches with her stories of life as a student. She has been living in a house with 8 other people this year. She informed us the house was filthy and the reason could have something to do with the fact they don't have a vacuum cleaner and non of them are willing to pay for one. Interesting the way students won't fork out for a cleaner but have money for frequent visits to the pub. More reasons for me to believe she is studying for a degree in piss drinking. Ah, the joys of student life.

Good luck with the film sweetie.

THE WEEK THAT WAS - PART ONE

ACCIDENTS HAPPEN

Where to begin? Hubby and I have been experiencing several challenges recently (understatement of the year).

We decided it was time for some relaxation. Hubby de-stresses by exercising. He used to play volleyball for New Zealand many years ago and has recently taken up the sport again. The problem is, he plays with the enthusiasm of a 19 year old while residing in the body of a forty something. So, I sent him off on his merry way with the words, "Don't over do it."

Ah, time for me to relax. I ran myself a bubble bath, lit candles and poured myself a glass of wine. I'd been in the bath all of five minutes when the phone rang. "Hi darling, I'm at the A&E (accident and emergency room) can you pick me up when you are free?"

This was the end result.



Looks like I'll be playing nurse for at least six weeks.

SCANDALOUS

This week's prompt from Sunday scribblings is...scandalous



Sweet seduction
Sows the seeds
Wanting, yearning
Fulfilling needs

Momentum builds
No turning back
Doubt consumes
Fuels the attack

Whispers abound
Rumours spread
Pulling back
No searching ahead

Truth forgotten
Scandal full blown
Lies take on
A life of their own

FLASH 55 - BLOOD BATH

Her remaining senses kick into overdrive as her eyes become accustomed to the darkness. The scent of copper assaulting her nose, the dripping sound from many taps? She steadies herself against the wall, flinching from slippery slime beneath her hands. The taste of fear but all too late. The vision before her predicts her fate.






Flash Fiction - Every Friday, I compose a short story of 55 words - no more, no less. If you would like to join in the fun and games... post your story and report to the boss -

G-MAN

If you're not interested in contributing a story, feel free to read the other entries. I'm sure any comments you have would be appreciated.

Happy Halloween!

Happy reading and writing!
Love
KB
xxx

A WEE BREAK

I have some personal issues I need to attend to. I'll pop in and see you when I can.

Take care. I'll be back.

Love KB
xxxx

FLASH 55 - CONSEQUENCES

twisting turmoil
emotions run amok
feelings laid out
like an open book

nowhere to run
nowhere to hide
some secrets should
remain inside

the prison consumes
time to break free
no-one to lean on
I must depend on me


the heart is willing
the time is now
a little faith
takes care of the how

SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT

I think I stole this from Dickiebo but I'm sure he won't mind cause he loves me.




As we grow up, we learn that even the one person that wasn’t supposed to ever let you down probably will.

You will have your heart broken probably more than once and it’s harder every time. You’ll break hearts too,so remember how it felt when yours was broken. You’ll fight with your best friend. You’ll blame a new love for things an old one did. You’ll cry because time is passing too fast, and you’ll eventually lose someone you love. So take too many pictures, laugh too much, and love like you’ve never been hurt because every sixty seconds you spend upset is a minute of happiness you’ll never get back.

Don’t be afraid that your life will end, be afraid that it will never begin.

A SINGING, DANCING SNAKE

It's almost time for Whitesnake to toddle off back to Australia. I've been lucky enough to catch up with him a few times while he's been in NZ. He's exactly as I imagined and has had me in stitches with his stories and jokes.





He came over to my place for dinner last week. He was staying in a motel about 15 mins from my place so I drove over there to pick him up. We had a great night. My dog usually barks when visitors arrive, I was surprised when she greeted Steve like he was one of her best buddies.

NOW YOU SEE IT




NOW YOU DON'T




Our friend Laurie cooked a Seafood Gumbo - yum, yum. I wasn't able to drink much as I had to drive Steve back to his motel later so I settled in and watched the boys have a few too many. They were doing fine until hubby brought out the shot glasses.













Steve seemed to be having a great old time until he fell asleep in the car. When we arrived at the motel, he opened his car door and informed me he wasn't feeling very well. After fertilizing the bushes with his dinner, I managed to get him up two flights of stairs and into his bathroom. Being sick must have done him the world of good because he told me he was fine the next day. The same can't be said for the other two blokes.

THIS IS WHAT I CAME HOME TO




When hubby is away, I often have dinner at Mum and Dad's place. There's a bit of a standng joke between Steve and I because whenever I visit my parents on a Friday they say we may as well have fish and chips. Mum assures me they only eat fish and chips when I come over. Anyway, when I told Mum that Steve was visiting, she asked me to invite him for dinner and of course, Steve thought it would amusing to visit on a Friday. Yes, we had fish and chips.

Steve arrived and kinda took over the place (which is his way) much to the amusement of my mother. He came bearing flowers, wine, beers and made a yummy salad. We had a few laughs and he fitted in well. I think my Mum wanted to keep him.












If you ever have the chance to catch up with Whitesnake...don't pass it up, he's a great guy. I'm gonna miss ya buddy.

DON'T YA JUST LOVE BLOG BUDDIES

I received a parcel full of goodies from Miss Morgy last week. I've always wanted one of her works of art, now I have to find the perfect place to hang it. Thanks Morgy XXX

UNEXPECTED VISITORS

I've been a bit slack on the blogging front but I've had a good reason, honest!

One night last week, at around eleven in the evening while I was in the shower (don't get too excited...it's not a naughty story), my little dog began barking furiously. Hubby was away but I wasn't too concerned as she often barks at cats in this way. I continued showering, next minute there was a pounding at my bathroom door and a man's voice said, "It's OK Karen, it's only me." After I had recovered from my fright, I dressed and discovered it was my friend Laurie.

He had called earlier and left a message on the answering machine, asking if he could come and stay with us. Unfortunately, when I had played back the message, I had no idea what he was mumbling about and decided I would call him the next day. So, he came over at ELEVEN o'clock, knocked on the door and when nobody answered, BROKE into my house,hmmmmmmmmm. I don't know what I was more upset about, the fact that he let himself into my house or the fact that somebody else could have broken in so easily.

Anyway, we had a few drinks and I said it was OK for him to stay a while. Didn't have much choice really. The next day he fixed my door, cooked dinner and watched a couple of episodes of Dr Who with me so I guess I can forgive him. He finally toddled off to his own place later on in the week.

In other news, I've recently discovered one of my favourite bloggers is visiting my home town. Woohoo! Steve (Whitesnake) tells me he's coming over for a quiet time but hubby and I have other ideas. Me thinks a few beers and wines may have to be sunk. Be afraid Mr Snake, BE VERY AFRAID! I'm really looking forward to catching up with him and finding out if he's as mad as I think he is. I'll see if I can take some pics to share with you.

Later gators.
x

P.S. If there are any questions you would like me to ask him or if there's anything you want me to find out about him... let me know and I'll do my best *giggles*

BA HUM BUG

I loooooooooooooooovvvvvvvvvvvvvvvvveeeeeeeeeeeeeeee Christmas but I must admit, seeing Christmas trees for sale in September is too much. Who needs to buy a tree in September? What are we going to do, put the tree up and leave it there for a few months? Actually, I decorated my tree and didn't take it down until the end of January one time. I found it quite amusing how horrified people were.

BTW, I have no idea how to spell Ba Hum Bug but that's why I have the spelling police around.

SEXY BITS

According to my local radio station; Angie is attending therapy sessions for...wait for it...low self esteem issues. What is she thinking? She's gorgeous. If a woman who has been voted as one of the sexiest people on the planet has problems with self esteem, there's not much hope for the rest of us *giggles*.



Speaking of sexy, I wonder if Matt will be named sexiest man again? Handsome, intelligent, witty, talented, polite, softly spoken and humble. He certainly gets my vote.

*faints*

FLASH 55 - KISS THE GIRLS

Why have people been giving me funny looks? Perhaps it's because I keep singing this song out loud at the most inappropriate times. *Bursts into song*

I kissed a girl and I liked it
The taste of her cherry chapstick
I kissed a girl just to try it
I hope my boyfriend don't mind it



Flash Fiction - Every Friday, I compose a short story of 55 words - no more, no less. If you would like to join in the fun and games... post your story and report to the boss -

G-MAN

If you're not interested in contributing a story, feel free to read the other entries. I'm sure any comments you have would be appreciated.

Happy reading and writing!
Love
KB
xxx

I'll BE BACK

I haven't forgotten y'all...I've had an unexpected house guest. I'll update you later. Keep smiling folks.

Love KB
xxxxx

FLASH 55 - DAYS OF THE OLD SCHOOLYARD

The first day of school had finally arrived. She pulled on her wellies, as it was raining outside. A boy pointed and laughed, 'Her wellies are orange, how stupid is that!' Mum had bought them for her, she would wear them with pride.

Later...

'How was your day sweetheart?'

'Great Mum, I punched a boy!'



As you may have realised by now, many of my stories and poems are based on events which have actually happened to me, this one is no exception. The look on my mother's face was priceless. The teasing I received from this boy was relentless.I didn't punch him but I did push him and he fell over in front of all his friends. Funnily enough, he didn't bother me after that. These days I wear pink wellies, what can I say...I'm an individual.

N.B. Wellies are otherwise know as gumboots or wellington boots. I'll see if I can find a pic because last time I mentioned them, there seemed to be some confusion as to what they actually were.


Here ya go. I wear these in the paddock when it's raining and muddy (much to the amusement of the farmer).




Flash Fiction - Every Friday, I compose a short story of 55 words - no more, no less. If you would like to join in the fun and games... post your story and report to the boss -

G-MAN

If you're not interested in contributing a story, feel free to read the other entries. I'm sure any comments you have would be appreciated.

Happy reading and writing!
Love
KB
xxx

ACHMED - A TERRIFYING TERRORIST

This is a really long one but I just had to have Achmed on my blog somewhere.

A BIT OF FUN

I saw this quiz over on Ciara's blog and thought I'd give it a try. Maybe if I mix some of Karen and the rest of KrazyBlonde together I'll find the correct combination. Some of it's spot on and the rest is sssssssssssssssoooooooooooo wrong.

What Karen Means

You are a seeker of knowledge, and you have learned many things in your life. You are also a keeper of knowledge - meaning you don't spill secrets or spread gossip. People sometimes think you're snobby or aloof, but you're just too deep in thought to pay attention to them. You are usually the best at everything ... you strive for perfection. You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive. You have the classic "Type A" personality. You are wild, crazy, and a huge rebel. You're always up to something. You have a ton of energy, and most people can't handle you. You're very intense. You definitely are a handful, and you're likely to get in trouble. But your kind of trouble is a lot of fun. You are friendly, charming, and warm. You get along with almost everyone. You work hard not to rock the boat. Your easy going attitude brings people together. At times, you can be a little flaky and irresponsible. But for the important things, you pull it together. You are very intuitive and wise. You understand the world better than most people. You also have a very active imagination. You often get carried away with your thoughts. You are prone to a little paranoia and jealousy. You sometimes go overboard in interpreting signals.

What's Your Name's Hidden Meaning?

What Krazyblonde Means

You are a seeker of knowledge, and you have learned many things in your life. You are also a keeper of knowledge - meaning you don't spill secrets or spread gossip. People sometimes think you're snobby or aloof, but you're just too deep in thought to pay attention to them. You are wild, crazy, and a huge rebel. You're always up to something. You have a ton of energy, and most people can't handle you. You're very intense. You definitely are a handful, and you're likely to get in trouble. But your kind of trouble is a lot of fun. You are usually the best at everything ... you strive for perfection. You are confident, authoritative, and aggressive. You have the classic "Type A" personality. You are incredibly wise and perceptive. You have a lot of life experience. You are a natural peacemaker, and you are especially good at helping others get along. But keeping the peace in your own life is not easy. You see things very differently, and it's hard to get you to budge. You are a free spirit, and you resent anyone who tries to fence you in. You are unpredictable, adventurous, and always a little surprising. You may miss out by not settling down, but you're too busy having fun to care. You are full of energy. You are spirited and boisterous. You are bold and daring. You are willing to do some pretty outrageous things. Your high energy sometimes gets you in trouble. You can have a pretty bad temper at times. You are relaxed, chill, and very likely to go with the flow. You are light hearted and accepting. You don't get worked up easily. Well adjusted and incredibly happy, many people wonder what your secret to life is. You are well rounded, with a complete perspective on life. You are solid and dependable. You are loyal, and people can count on you. At times, you can be a bit too serious. You tend to put too much pressure on yourself. You are very intuitive and wise. You understand the world better than most people. You also have a very active imagination. You often get carried away with your thoughts. You are prone to a little paranoia and jealousy. You sometimes go overboard in interpreting signals. You are balanced, orderly, and organized. You like your ducks in a row. You are powerful and competent, especially in the workplace. People can see you as stubborn and headstrong. You definitely have a dominant personality. You are friendly, charming, and warm. You get along with almost everyone. You work hard not to rock the boat. Your easy going attitude brings people together. At times, you can be a little flaky and irresponsible. But for the important things, you pull it together.

What's Your Name's Hidden Meaning?

INTRODUCING...MISSY

I'd like to introduce you to my friend.....

MISSY

She's funny, kind, loving, loyal, a talented poet, a Mum and one of my dearest friends.





A couple of years ago, I joined Helium (a site for writers). If I remember correctly, Muttars and Keith were already writing on blogspot and many more of us followed suit when we grew tired of the restrictions placed on us by the Helium site.

One of the first people I came into contact with over on Helium was Phil, affectionately know to Missy and I as sandwich...it's a long story. Anyway, Phil was always mentioning this lovely lady he knew named Missy and suggested we get in touch. He thought we'd get on like a house on fire. He was soooooooooo right. Missy and I have remained good friends since, she is like a sister to me.

Missy and I are alike in many ways but I think what we have most in common is our sense of humour. I find this amusing in itself because for a start she is American and many Americans I have come into contact with don't relate to my sense of humour. Also, she is a woman and I usually get along better with men. I know a conversation with Missy isn't going to be hours going on and on about shoes and shopping, etc. Not that there is anything wrong with that but I tend to nod off when those kinds of topics come up.

Missy and I support each other, cheer each other up when needed and generally just have a laugh. I'd be lost without her friendship.


Why don't you pay her a visit and tell her I sent you.

Love you Missy!

Bye y'all
xxxxxxxxxxxxx

P.S. If you'd be interested in being introduced to any more of my blog buddies...drop me a comment here and I'll do another poll.

ANOTHER DOG STORY

Recently, 24 of New Zealand's top search and rescue dogs were training in the South Island. Some of the best trackers have been saved from death row at the pound.

According to one trainer, most dogs they recover from the pound have the right attitude for search and rescue. One of her dogs arrived with a broken leg but he still couldn't wait to get started. Most of the dogs start off really hyper but give them some training and a job to do and they become totally different dogs.

The dogs main role is to find people who go missing in the bush and elderly people who wander off from rest homes.

Amazing when you think about it really. Dogs tossed aside and neglected by humans being trained to save our lives.

MAN'S BEST FRIEND

Buddy is an eighteen-month-old German Shepard. His owner suffered a head injury ten years ago and Buddy has been trained to phone 911 in case of emergency.

This clever dog remembered his training last week - saving his owner's life.

On a recording of the 911 call, Buddy can be heard whimpering and barking as the dispatcher repeatedly asks if the caller needs help.

Buddy's owner spent a couple of days in the hospital and is doing fine.

Good on ya Buddy!

QUOTE OF THE DAY

Australian Gold Medal winner - Steve Hooker was asked, 'Is pole vaulting a sexy sport?'

He replied, 'There's no sexier sport, we've got our big pole, we plant it into a box and land in a bed.'

So funny, *giggles*

COCO - THE ALARM SPANIEL

For those of you who don't already know, I refer to my dog as the alarm spaniel. It's great having an alarm spaniel around; any time a visitor or a cat comes near...the barking begins. Unfortunately, it takes a while for her to respond to the off button, but I'm working on it.

At around 7.30 last night, the alarm spaniel went off. I imagined it was a cat and wasn't concerned until I heard footsteps coming to my door. Eek.

The outside lights didn't activate, (hubby had turned them off because the cat kept setting them off). So there I am, sitting on my own, pitched black outside with someone knocking at my door.

I opened a window because I knew if I went to the door, Coco would have a few words with this stranger . There was a man there who introduced himself and asked if he could come in for a few minutes for a chat.

He looked harmless enough and for a moment, I considered letting him in. I didn't want to say - My husband is away so could you come back another day? I managed to come up with, 'Now's not convenient, could you come back another time?' He replied, 'Sure, how about tomorrow night?' I didn't know how to respond. If he was dodgy he would either know I was home alone or my house would be unattended the next evening. I asked him if he could come back next week instead and left it at that.

Makes me wonder why people in this day an age go door knocking. Don't they realise they are putting themselves at risk entering strangers houses? Maybe he felt safe being a man. Silly man if you ask me. I realise he didn't know I was home alone but don't people think about these things? Home invasion if rife. I don't usually have visitors arriving on my doorstep, by foot, unannounced. He scared me half to death.

Which reminds me. Today, I passed a hitchhiker on my way to the shops. I felt sorry for him and almost stopped. He was still there when I headed home. I think hitchhikers must be mad. Talk about making yourself an easy target.

The moral to this story...if you are going to pay me a visit in the evening, make sure you phone first or you may have to deal with the alarm spaniel.


Oh dear, I think I've been watching too many horror movies again. Wonder if there are any romance movies on tonight...

Love is...

Aww, came across this poem while I was sorting through some old papers. I remember it was one of my favourites when I was a teenager.


Love is feeling cold in the back of vans

Love is a fanclub with only two fans

Love is walking holding paintstained hands

Love is.

Love is fish and chips on winter nights

Love is blankets full of strange delights

Love is when you don't put out the light

Love is

Love is the presents in Christmas shops

Love is when you're feeling Top of the Pops

Love is what happens when the music stops

Love is

Love is white panties lying all forlorn

Love is pink nightdresses still slightly warm

Love is when you have to leave at dawn

Love is

Love is you and love is me

Love is prison and love is free

Love's what's there when you are away from me

Love is...

-Adrian Henri

NATIONAL NUDE DAY

Friday 19th September, is NZ's National Nude Day. Don't worry folks, it's not an official holiday, it's brought to us by Sports Cafe.

Sports Cafe, is one of my favourite shows on telly. The programme was removed from air about three years ago. Mostly because of the antics of Marc Ellis,(I would imagine). With comments such as '... was sweating like a rapist', it's hardly surprising. The show returned to our screens a few months ago.

It's a live hour of general mayhem; including interviews with sports folk and a round up of the week's sporting highlights. Perfect for me because there aren't enough hours in the week to watch Rugby as it is, never mind all the other sport.

An unlikely crew host the show, an ex rugby union/league player, a World Sevens Rugby Captain, a former sports correspondent, a former Miss Universe (NZ) and of course, That Guy (yes, that's his name and I have no idea who he is) *giggles*.

I'm enjoying this season more than ever. Marc seems to have toned down a fraction. If you can call showing up for the show drunk one time, toning down. His comments have been tamer... 'He came up behind me and I wasn't sure if he wanted me to bend over or hug him.' Last week he managed to give out another hosts cell phone number on Live TV. He's kinda like a little boy who has never grown up. The way he behaves is so ridiculous, you can't help laughing.

Back to National Nude Day. Funnily enough - Marc's idea. It's held once a year, I think it began the year after the show started. The public send in videos of themselves doing ridiculous things in the nude. The best ones are shown each week and the winner will be announced oh the show. My favourite so far has been a man bending over, while another person parks the wheel of his bike up his bum crack. It doesn't sound funny but I had tears pouring down my cheeks.

What has surprised me, has been the amount of entries by women this year. Yikes, I've never seen so many boobies on TV.

Perhaps I'll leave it at that for now. National Nude Day, Boobs on Bikes Day...you guys will be thinking we're all a bunch of perverts over here. We have regular holidays too, honest!

I may post the winning entry at a later stage. Depends on how risque it is.

INSPIRATION

Why is it that some days, I can have a day to myself without interruption, all the time in the world to write something down and I can't write anything? I always have ideas of topics in my head but some days they decide they'd like to make a home for themselves in there and stay a while. Other times (usually when I have other things I need to be doing) I have so much to say, I have to stop what I'm doing and write it down.

I'm noticing more and more when these moments of inspiration come to me and instead of trying to ignore them, I go with the flow. I've always written privately, usually rambling on and on to myself but this sharing thoughts is reasonably new to me and I must say, I'm really enjoying it.

Inspiration comes in many forms for me. I listen to music constantly, it's often easier to listen to the words from the head of someone else than those in my own.

There are many special people in my life who inspire me. Some are long gone but their words remain with me. Others have been through terrible loss and tragedy yet still remain strong.

I often wonder what makes a person strong. Is it in their genes or is it a
combination of this and life experiences? I used to think to myself when I was depressed. Why do you feel this way? You have a good life? People I care about have been through incapacitating injuries, homelessness, child abuse, death of a loved one and come out of it stronger than ever.

These things have never affected me yet looking back on the past there were some days when I couldn't bear to get out of bed in the morning, I would close my eyes and think, this is too hard, I just want it to end and find some peace.

Luckily, I found a wonderful therapist and he made me look at my life in a different way. The way I take on other people's problems and help them, which is easier than looking at my own experiences and dealing with them. Ah, he was a wise man...I used to want to slap him on a regular basis, LOL.

I've totally lost track of where I was going with this post but I kinda like the feeling. See, that is one of the things I struggle with when I write. I do so much editing at times because I want to be 100% happy with the result, that the post loses it's originality.

A good friend told me I should try writing and going with the flow and just tweak it at the end...if I must. I'm trying but I'll probably go back and spend another hour changing it. LMAO, What am I like?

I originally came here to thank my blog buddies. All of you inspire me in some way or another. Stories, pictures, laughter, poems, rambles and your comments often leave me in stitches.

Thanks for sharing and making my world a better place.

P.S. I checked my spelling but that was all. Step away from the computer Karen...NOW!

SOLDIER OF FORTUNE

I saw this over on Steve's blog and just had to share with y'all.




NZ, great music, romance, a loving man...what more could a girl want? A wine perhaps?

Love it

Cheers

10,000 HITS AND COUNTING

Does this happen to you? I've had so many ideas for posts going round and round in my head for about a week now. They are little odds and ends which don't justify a post of their own but I need to clear space in my head, LOL. Well, I know what I mean. Write it down and move on. So I'm gonna ramble away today. Maybe I'll start doing a weekly ramble.

It's not the tragedies that kill us, it's the messes.

-Dorothy Parker

I heard the quote below on telly last night and thought it was appropriate for what I intended to write about today. Funny how that happens isn't it?


Love all, trust few, do wrong to no one.

-Shakespeare

Over 10,000 hits and 250 posts in just over a year. I can receive anything between 2 and 20 comments per post....hmmm, you do the math. I knew many of the hits were mine but as the number began to creep up, I was curious as to who was visiting and how they arrived at my wee blog.

Let me give you a little background info before I continue. A few years ago, one of our fellow bloggers and I were - I think the expression is - cyber stalked, by the same person. Wasn't too serious for me, I think it was mainly backlash from me trying to protect my friend. But it was still an eye-opener...being followed around online, nasty emails, that kind of thing. Anyway, it was all sorted and it's made me a lot more aware of the signs to look for so these things don't get out of hand. With me so far?

Which brings me back to being curious about my blog visitors. I decided to install one of those blog tracking gizmos recently, which provided me with some interesting results. After a bit of research, I discovered there's someone in particular *waves* who visits me, often twice a day, which isn't unusual in itself but this person hasn't commented for months and last time I heard, they didn't even like me very much, LOL. I'm pretty sure they don't visit me to read my posts. Sounds mysterious I know but I don't want to go into too much detail. It kinda gives me the creeps.

Which brings me to my next point. I see blogger has a new, follower function (which I think is cool)but when does following (for want of a better word) become stalking? I do it myself, there are some blogs I read every day but don't always comment on. Sometimes there's nothing I have to say on the topic. I have a list of my favourite blogs so I can see when a friend has posted. I know hubby reads my blog every day but doesn't comment often. He prefers to verbally comment *giggles*. This is all perfectly normal as far as I can see but when does it cross the line?

I talked to hubby about it a while back and he thinks I am being overly sensitive and a little paranoid. He reminds me there are many strange people out there (I'm pretty sure he puts me in this catergory) and when you spend a significant amount of time out and about on the net, you are bound to encounter them once in a while.

I'm not overly concerned, in this case, I just don't like it, LOL. If I hadn't installed the gizmo, I wouldn't have know about it, perhaps my own paranoia is to blame.

Anyway, I'm going to remove the tracker cause it makes me feel a bit stalkerish (is that a word?)myself. When I read back what I had written here, I noticed I stated I didn't like it when someone was checking up on my whereabouts but isn't that what I am doing by having the tracker on my blog? Treat others as you would like to be treated Karen and all that.

Oh lookey, turned out to be a long ramble after all. Any thoughts?


ADSENSE

I've removed ads from my blog too. Adsense is supposed to incorporate ads which are relevant to the blog. How...FIND ASIAN GIRLS FOR LOVE...is relevant to my blog is beyond me. Perhaps it's for one of my readers...*wink*

LAST BUT NOT LEAST

You've heard the expression....Happy as Larry..? Who the hell is Larry and why is he so happy?

If you've made it this far - here's a big hug for ya.

((((((((((((((((((((((((BLOG BUDDIES)))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))


I love you all, I trust a few of you and as far as I know...when I've done wrong, I've applogised for it. Man, I likey that quote.

BY REQUEST - RUGBY STUFF

There I was dressed up in my All Black gear, feet up, in front of the telly, glass of red in hand, ten mins until the game started....screen goes blank. After much cursing, pulling out of plugs, rebooting system and more swearing, I realised I was going to have to wait another hour for the delayed coverage option. Fucks sake, pay all that money for satellite tv and it decides to go down at the most inappropriate times. I was NOT happy.

Anyway, I'm so happy I stayed up to watch my boys, they did NZ proud. The Tri-Nations and Bledisloe cups tucked away in the cabinet for another year. Woohoo!

A fellow, Mighty Blacks supporter missed the game and asked for a blow by blow account. I am usually biased in these things so I copy and pasted an article from my local rag. I recon the writer is probably a little biased too but I think he did a good job. So here ya go mate, courtesy of The New Zealand Herald.




The All Blacks held off a storming Wallabies finish to win a thrilling rugby test 28-24 here tonight and lock the Tri-Nations and Bledisloe Cups in their cabinet for another year.

Down 7-17 just after halftime the All Blacks rattled up three tries in 17 minutes to win their fourth consecutive Tri-Nations title and retain the Bledisloe Cup for a fifth year with a match to spare.

But the All Blacks weren't safe as a late try by Wallaby Ryan Cross with two minutes left narrowed the gap then the visitors had to defend desperately as the seconds ticked away.

The visitors scored four tries to three at Suncorp Stadium and rode home on a roaring "All Blacks" chant from a fair proportion of the crowd of 52,328. Captain Richie McCaw and his jubilant team embraced at the final whistle.

The All Blacks struck the killer blows in the 62nd and 67th minutes when replacement halfback Piri Weepu scored then first five-eighth Daniel Carter bumped off two defenders to give them an 11-point margin which proved enough.


For Deans, his debut Tri-Nations season ended with back-to-back defeats after a flying start to his new job.

The Wallabies led 10-7 at halftime after they dominated possession in a scrappy first 40 minutes where the whistle of referee Jonathan Kaplan was prominent.

The South African had little patience at the breakdown and warned both sides in the first half with yellow cards.

The All Blacks scored first in a rare attacking raid after a flurry of free kicks when fullback Mils Muliaina touched down after a quick tap from halfback Jimmy Cowan.

He found space inside the Wallabies 22m line then Jerome Kaino and Ma'a Nonu used the overlap to send Muliaina over out wide.

It looked as if the All Blacks would carry their lead into halftime as they defended stoutly, a Kaino turnover halting one 12-phase Wallabies movement near the line.

But on the stroke of halftime the hosts finally strung some passes together and fullback Adam Ashley-Cooper put them in front.

First five-eighth Matt Giteau, who had a poor first half with the boot, kicked wide for wing Peter Hynes who was hit in mid-air by opposite Sitiveni Sivivatu, but freed the pass to his fullback who darted past Muliaina and Conrad Smith to score.


The test opened up after the break and the Wallabies extended their lead to 10 points when they raced onto attack, Giteau handled twice and sent lock James Horwill crashing through Carter's tackle out wide.

But coach Graham Henry rolled on his substitutes with half an hour left and the All Blacks stormed home over the tiring Wallabies.

Prop Tony Woodcock raced 20m down the left touchline from a Smith linebreak for his third try in two matches against Australia, and Carter converted from the sideline to narrow the gap to three.

Weepu was only on the field seven minutes before he dotted down when Sivivatu caught the Wallabies' defence napping, then Carter nailed the coffin shut five minutes later when he bumped off Cross and Ashley Cooper to dive over under the posts.

- NZPA

FINALLY, A BUCKET BIG ENOUGH FOR KB'S WINE

A cheeky so and so forwarded this pic to me with the above title. I don't understand it really...I hardly ever drink :)



DO ME A FAVOUR?

If you could pop over to

BLOG NO LONGER AVAILABLE

and slap him for me, I would really appreciate it. *giggles* He has a pic of my wee, dawg on his list of dislikes. How could anyone dislike my girl? She's been sulking since she heard the news.




Right, I'm heading out to my parents place soon. I'm going to watch Mama Mia with my Mama. Dad is tagging along too. I've heard it's a chick flick and he'll no doubt be bored to tears. Least it's dark in the movie theatre, he'll probably have a nap.

This evening I'll be cosy on the couch, in front of the telly, wearing my All Black jersey, with my bucket of wine and cheering the boys on. Watched them thrash Samoa last week. Can't remember the final score but they wracked up over 100 points. Too easy.

There's a lot riding on tonight's match against Australia - Bledisloe Cup and Tri- Nations Championship. It's going to be a beauty.

Go the All Blacks!

FLASH 55 - BREATHE

The page is blank, the slate is clean?
Words are controlled, they stifle me.
No rhythm or rhyme.
Cursor blinks, taunting me.
Clearly quite absurd.
Breathe girl, breathe.

A blank page, a fresh start.
Inspiration awaits.
The words begin to flow,
enabling my escape.
Life is full of promise again.
I'm finally free to breathe.

Flash Fiction - Every Friday, I compose a short story of 55 words - no more, no less. If you want to join in the fun and games and give it a try...post your story and report to the boss -

G-MAN

. If you're not interested in contributing a story, feel free to read the other entries. I'm sure any comments you have would be appreciated.

Happy reading and writing!
Love
KB
xxx

A WALK IN THE PARK

Yesterday, our friend Dickiebo requested a prize for selecting Missy in my reader's poll. I wanted to choose the perfect gift. I took into consideration the unflattering blonde jokes, the Krazy Blonde vid, his dislike of dogs, his disparaging comments about the Mighty All Blacks, the references to my injuries and my botched spelling attempts (I realise your partner in crime - Keith, has much to answer for re the last reference).

Keep 'em coming my friend. Here is your prize, just what you always wanted...more dog video. Enjoy and yes, I did pick up the pooh :) I think you've gotten off pretty lightly considering.







OH WAIT, THERE'S MORE...WATCHING THIS WILL MAKE YOU HAPPY YOU RETIRED FROM THE FORCE.

FOUR SEASONS IN ONE DAY

We have been experiencing the strangest weather lately. Beautiful sunshine, followed by thunder, lightning, storms and a couple of days ago - hail. I don't think I've ever seen such weather in my neck of the woods. What's going on?





LOOK CLOSELY TO SEE A RAINBOW



IN OTHER NEWS...

I weighed myself this morning and am pleased to report I've lost another 2kgs. Woohoo! All the walking, eating properly and reduction of the vino is paying off. My goal is to lose one more kg then I'm done.

AND JUST SO YOU KNOW...

There are one million ants to every human in the world.
Frogs cannot swallow with their eyes open.
A quarter of the bones in your body are in your feet.

POLL RESULTS

Thanks for those who voted. Looks like Missy is IT, hehe!

CATCH YA LATER
Love KB
xxx

BLOG PROBLEMS

I'm having a terrible time acessing my blog at the mo. I am receiving notification of comments made but cannot actually read my own posts. I swear I have only had one glass of wine. Hopefully this problem will be resolved soon and I can reply to your comments.

Anyone else having trouble in blog land?

LOVING THIS PIC

I'M BACK

Hi all,

I'm back and totally relaxed after my trip away. Let's see if I can remember what I've been up to...

A most enjoyable evening out with our good friends Penny and Andrew. Thai food, good company and a table full of blind people and their doggies next to us.

Spent the next evening at hubby's brother's place. Had a fantastic time - as always. Dear I and L, I'm not writing this because I know you sometimes read my blog, I'm writing it because I always have the best time at your place. We drank too much, ate a delicious duck and played Buzz.

I found it interesting that my brother-in-law said he learned more from reading my blog than he previously knew about me. Hmmm, I thought he knew me pretty well already. Maybe it's because I find it easier to write down how I am feeling than talk face to face with people. When I write here, it's straight from brain to laptop. It's easier to stay on topic and get inside my head when I can write without interruption. Who knows really.

We stayed overnight at their place because we always drink too much to drive home when we stay there, hehe. The following morning,our hosts cooked a birthday breakfast (hubby's birthday). We ate bacon, eggs, toast, tomatoes and black pudding. Yum!

We headed to my Mum's place next. They had returned from their holiday to Samoa that very morning and looked as brown as Maoris. Dad showed off his photos and hubby and mum exchanged gifts. My hubby, mum and grandad all share the same birthday.

Next stop was hubby's parents place, followed by more gifts.

We spent a lovely week at Miranda Holiday Park; reading, doing crosswords, eating, drinking, shopping and soaking in the pool. Unfortunately, I pulled a muscle in my neck and spent a couple of days in quite a lot of pain but the red wine medicine kept me happy until the pain subsided.

That's all from me folks. Time to catch up on what you boys and girls have been up to.

Bye for now
KB
xxx




SOME USELESS INFORMATION I LEARNED WHILE I WAS AWAY


Just 20 seconds worth of fuel remained when Apollo 11's lunar module landed on the moon.

The Mona Lisa has no eyebrows.

Elephants are the only animals that cannot jump.

Bet you're glad you visited me today, hehe!

BUSY,BUSY,BUSY!

It's been a busy weekend over here at blonde central. Seems every man and his dog wants to catch up with us and we've a few birthdays coming up too. Will be whisking hubby away for a few days to celebrate his birthday. We'll be busy soaking in the pool, feel free to stop by if you're in the neighbourhood.










Be good - if you must but I'd prefer it if you'd misbehave so you have some stories to tell me when I return.

Later gators

xxxx

P.S. Don't forget to vote for the poll over on the sidebar, there's a post all about it below this one. I'm secretly hoping I will ba able to write about Ciara as she thought it would be hilarious to vote for the - this is bollocks option. LMAO, you go girl! Not very good at keeping secrets after all am I. Y'all know which phrase comes next...BE AFRAID, BE VERY AFRAID.

Love you all (cept Norman but only 'cause he says I'm not allowed to)

KB
XXXX

INTRODUCING...

A few months ago, our friend

MORGY

began interviewing her blog buddies and posting snippets of convos she'd had with us, on her blog. I was firsties *glows with pride* but all I could think of at the time was what a great idea it was and how I wish I had thought of it first. It's kinda been at the back of my mind and I thought I'd try my own take on it.

I often visit blogs and wonder how others who comment, found each other, whether they know each other in real life. Maybe I'm just nosey but those kinds of things interest me.

So, I'm going to do my own interview series. Not the same as Morgy because let's face it, I can't get half way through the interview and say, 'That's all very interesting but now, let's talk about me.' *giggles*

I'd like to introduce my blog buddies to you, maybe include a few pics, how we know each other, include some of my favourite blog posts. Don't worry, I won't divulge your deep, dark secrets (saving that for when I need some cold, hard, cash) or include pics without your permission.


What I'd like from you nutters is for you to vote on my poll over there *points to the right*. This is not a popularity contest. I don't want you to vote for your favourite blogger (cause obviously that would be ME). I would like you to vote for a person you have seen around and maybe found interesting or wondered what on earth they have in common with this crazy blonde.

It's my way of introducing my friends to you. Also, there are a few people on my blog roll I hardly know so it will be a good way for me to learn more about them too.

Happy voting, I hope I didn't forget anyone, I did it in a bit of a rush...will check it again later.

P.S. Mr Grumpy Pants - the last option is especially for you :)

FLASH 55

Last month I posted a snippet from a story I'd been working on.

GHOSTS

The following installment is my 55 for this week:


She reaches out for him, as she sighs in her dreams. Her beautiful face appears peaceful in sleep. It's difficult to comprehend that this innocent looking woman before him, is the bravest soul he's ever met. She fights the demons willingly at his side but he longs to give her the normal life she deserves.

STORY TIME WITH KB

Press play and I'll read my story to you.




Oh that was so much fun. When I played it back I thought I read it too quickly, I'll take it slower next time. Me thinks I'm going to have a lot of fun with this. I love writing but my punctuation and spelling are a work in process, reading my stories will be so much easier. Just think about all the mischief I can get up to talking about people (who don't have sound cards) behind their backs. Just kidding G...I'll always include the written version :)


A special thank you to

KEITH

He often reads his poetry to us using the same technique as above. Thanks for the info on how to go about it x




Flash Fiction - Every Friday, I compose a short story of 55 words - no more, no less. If you want to join in the fun and games and give it a try...post your story and report to the boss -

G-MAN

. If you're not interested in contributing a story, feel free to read the other entries. I'm sure any comments you have would be appreciated.

Happy reading and writing!
Love
KB
xxx


I'm finding it a tad tricky to fit what I have so far into my 55s, I'll post a few longer installments next week.

PARDON GIVEN TO GANG RAPISTS

I read an article in my daily rag yesterday. It's been on my mind since. I was going to write about the disgust I feel for these men but I think I'll let the facts speak for themselves.


Sara, was gang-raped by three men. Her attackers were tried and sentenced by the Supreme Court. Imagine Sarah's shock at a later date, to discover these three men walking around freely in her village.

The men received a pardon from the Afghan President and were discretely freed. Sarah's rape was public and brutal.

The doctor's report said Sara had a 17mm wound in her private parts cut with a bayonet. She was left to stumble home, bleeding and without her trousers.

According to the copy of the pardon, the men were released because, "they had been forced to confess to their crimes".

After doing a little research, I discovered that previously, armed men had taken Sarah's son away by force. He hasn't been seen since. The above mentioned rape took place after she spoke publicly regarding the commander who was responsible.

It still shocks me that in this day and age, women are being treated this way for speaking their minds.

Makes me thankful I live in little ole NZ.

I THINK WE'RE ALONE NOW

A lone at last

L anguishing in solitude

O blivious to life outside

N obody to disturb me

E verybody come back!




Has been a strange week for me. Hubby has been away on his travels, my parents are enjoying a well deserved break overseas, my sis is overseas, the kids are away from home and my closest friends have either been working or out of town.

When I have people all around me, I reach a point where I crave time alone. There are only a few people who understand how deep a need this is in me. Some think it's because they have upset me or done something wrong. This isn't the case at all. If I don't have time to myself I become moody and withdrawn. I know for a fact, a few of my blog buddies have been on the receiving end of some of my mood swings. The best thing to do is just leave me be and I'll be back to my bouncy self in no time.

*bounces around*