tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55078169319691635632024-03-23T20:07:26.153-07:00To the ends of the earth My adventures in my quest to find a special place to live and love at either end of the planet. Frances Lawsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08107995840713193160noreply@blogger.comBlogger515125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5507816931969163563.post-91266939952312922952024-03-06T11:22:00.000-08:002024-03-06T11:22:48.309-08:00Help! I'm being erased.<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJvY6jOc3UOwLrlZmCOZIrefNMXRp2ECSHf769Nb0Uwht-lTvs-ZoDpJ_JhJ0E0EL_K4CcN_j7ik2LKHXm3ANypFkQcvUDVgRWTBJjDb17K6gfuSAJApmVgdS61rqo7jTLuvteh83FgO3QCb4pkNWpkAhYc25jY5YsKM1VsuWfjmxlPcFHwwasaq46urY/s2450/Follow%20my%20heart%20JPEG.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2450" data-original-width="1575" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJvY6jOc3UOwLrlZmCOZIrefNMXRp2ECSHf769Nb0Uwht-lTvs-ZoDpJ_JhJ0E0EL_K4CcN_j7ik2LKHXm3ANypFkQcvUDVgRWTBJjDb17K6gfuSAJApmVgdS61rqo7jTLuvteh83FgO3QCb4pkNWpkAhYc25jY5YsKM1VsuWfjmxlPcFHwwasaq46urY/w413-h640/Follow%20my%20heart%20JPEG.jpg" width="413" /></a> It has been a very distressing 7 months. I had received an email from the publishing arm of Amazon , now called Kindle Direct Publishing, to say my US/IRS tax documents for my book published in 2014 would soon be out of date and that I must renew them. OK, it's not that simple understanding these tax forms which are renewed every three years, but I've done it several times in the past. However, this platform for authors is proving to be a thoughtless horror.</p><p>Things worked well for a few years when it was originally Createspace. Then they changed it to KDP. I found the security clunky and things got worse once they insisted on two-step verification. I can see the logic but when the technology doesn't work and the huge corporate is based in the US - it's a recipe for major stress. It is also a salutory warning of how technology can destroy lives and those lives can do NOTHING about it - beware AI, I am thinking, even if you do nothing wrong you cannot argue with a powerful corporate that does not care. </p><p>I think we can all agree that Facebook doesn't really give a shit about us - our timelines are clogged with stuff we absolutely don't want and not the activities of our friends. It is just a channel for push marketing and it just gets worse.</p><p>We can also agree (if you have a lot of exerience like me) that the dating sites don't give a shit either. They don't work and they don't care.</p><p>I did, however, hope that Amazon KDP might care a bit because they get a commission whenever the site sells one of my books, though it is a rare occurence these days. I pop onto the KDP site to update my tax docs, amend my author page, see if I have sold anything.</p><p>Seven months ago I tried to get into the back end of my KDP account to update my tax docs. If I don't do that I will get very little commission in future as the IRS will keep most of it. So I was pretty motivated to sort things out when I noticed mysef in a security loop to nowhere. I tried to explain this to them:<br /></p><p><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<![endif]--><span face=""Calibri", sans-serif" style="color: #444444; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%;">"I
have a serious problem with Amazon & KDP. For almost 5 months both have given me
the copy paste and run-around. I am an author and need to access my KDP
account. I can use username and password but to access and update my tax docs
for the IRS I need to get into the deep parts of my account. It wants to send
me a code but now it doesn’t even send it to my phone, only my email account,
and when I enter it it then wants my phone number, which I try to enter and it
says internal error. </span></p><p><span face=""Calibri", sans-serif" style="color: #444444; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%;">I have wasted weeks of my life trying to get someone at
AmazonKDP to fix this bug. They said they would take off the two-step
verification so I would need to send official ID to them. This I have done three
times. They say it is disactivated but it isn’t. I get the same bad errors. Any
phone number I have been given does not work/go through. Whenever I request a
callback the screen usually tells me the service is not available. As a result of all
this I no longer get the royalties I am owed and will never be able to publish
another book. I despair. Can anyone advise me (I am currently in NZ)?"</span></p><p><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-NZ; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">All I got was standard/stock replies which never did anything because they expect the user to solve the IT problem instead of the IT supplier fixing their own mistakes. Literally for months I would go on Chat with either Amazon or Amazon KDP and each tried to off-load me to the other. It was clear from the standard of English that the customer service chats were not native speakers. IF you can find a customer service contact number (see end of post) you are offered two choices: a Chat or a Phonecall. Most of the time a phonecall service was not available and when it was I got shunted from pillar to post, constantly repeating my issues, waiting to be fobbed off and eventually told a technical team would get back to me within 24 hours. They stopped even bothering with that much.<br /></span></p><p><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-NZ; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Yes, I was reminded of stuff I could try myself but none of that could work because there was a bug/internal error on my two-step verification. Eventually things deteriorated and the OTP codes no longer came through on my phone but just a copy via email. Trouble was, the very last step never worked and I was stuck with an error.</span></p><p><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-NZ; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Hours and hours of frustration every week, every month ensued for me. A software writer tried to reason with Amazon by phone but got fobbed off too. No one is accountable, no one actually fixes anything. What is a customer to do? I don't think I'd succeed in getting a call through to Jeff Bezos's successor Andy Jassy.</span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYBS_47Y2dSFneO-sv6JRSnTIbvzRiKLXQT4snLtv-jR9uVNNylay7RDFaOcpBj8Wsh61ymEFl8C7QwbRX98IVo6AbRxeVogB9wQNDqcgffBWVx2BKtI-ejdtOABTC8HZN3dk5G_p1Vaa9T5vJxP6HaxKfaT2VkXw47c0gIvZRKAJV49MuxuB1yN0EXzA/s1772/Follow%20my%20heart%203D.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1772" data-original-width="1412" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYBS_47Y2dSFneO-sv6JRSnTIbvzRiKLXQT4snLtv-jR9uVNNylay7RDFaOcpBj8Wsh61ymEFl8C7QwbRX98IVo6AbRxeVogB9wQNDqcgffBWVx2BKtI-ejdtOABTC8HZN3dk5G_p1Vaa9T5vJxP6HaxKfaT2VkXw47c0gIvZRKAJV49MuxuB1yN0EXzA/s320/Follow%20my%20heart%203D.jpg" width="255" /></a><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-NZ; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Now 7 months since I first tried to update my tax documents I am still locked out of the back end on my account. Oh, I can still log in to buy stuff from Amazon if I wanted to but I can't do the security stuff with my account. I can never publish another book and I can never get the royalities owed for any copies of my book I may sell. After the huge amount of work that went into writing, formatting, marketing etc my book <b>Follow My Heart</b> it seems very hard to accept. Maybe I could delete my entire account, which was a last resort suggested to me, and start again, but the IT stuff involved the first time in trying to get a book published on KDP was hideous and I would lose all my reviews etc. Beware: deleting any Amazon retail account deletes all other accounts too but retail seems to be the main account. I feel pretty depressed about this but more was to come.</span></p><p><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-NZ; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">When I launched my book in 2014 NZ publishers and marketers showed zero interest, probably because I was not currently in NZ so getting my book into stores and libraries was difficult. However, a few years ago I discovered a copy in the Lincoln library. It proved to be the only copy in Selwyn District. A few weeks ago, at the Rolleston (Selwyn) Library (the one that refuses to have the word Library on the outside) I could find no record of my book in the catalogue for the district. I enquired of the librarian and she confirmed it had been 'retired'. Why? I asked and she said it was more than 3 years old so they had no room for it. "Then how come I have a stack of books I'm taking out where most are nearly 10 years old?" I said. She had no explanation but was able to tell me my book had become available to borrow in 2016 and had been borrowed 37 times - while not a lot of borrowing it was reasonable, she said. I suggested that a bit more support for a local author would be nice and that I could supply a fresh copy. The librarian said the person who makes the decisions would call me. Of course, she never did!</span></p><p><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-NZ; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">It's an awful feeling - being erased. </span></p><p><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-NZ; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Amazon chat no longer bothers to speak to me/get back to me/ lie to me even. I am simply a boring problem to be non existent. A personal memoir/something that mattered, that had taken a huge effort, that had been well received by readers and also borrowed a bit was blocked from being borrowed or providing any recompense to the author.</span></p><p><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-NZ; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">In all cases no one gives a damn to make it right when it is their own systems at fault. What will AI and other systems do to our identities and lives once they start making mistakes about US? </span></p><p><i><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-NZ; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><b>For those of you who might wonder how Amazon and KDP interact on these issues or if you too need some 'help' to resolve a simple thing read the detailed blah blah below which is only part of the BS solutions that in many cases were just plain unworkable that I had to endure.<br /></b></span></i></p><p><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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</p><p class="MsoNormal">1. Thank you for contacting us about the Two-Step Verification
on your Amazon account. <br />
We have confirmed that the Two-Step Verification has been deactivated and your
account access has been restored using the documents you provided. You should
be able to sign in to your Amazon account.<br />
You can manage Two-Step Verification and reactivate this setting. To do so, go
to "Your Account" and click "Login & security."</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">2. Thank you for your patience while we work to solve this
problem for you.<br />
In this case, I was able to talk with the technical team, and they advised me
to explain to you that you need to contact the Account Recovery team so they
can help you disable the OTP on your account. Try signing in through a
registered backup method or from a trusted device.<br />
If you still can't sign in, kindly visit this link and follow the instructions
provided: <br />
<br />
US:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html/ref=hp_left_v4_sib?ie=UTF8&nodeId=202073840
<br />
BR: https://www.amazon.com.br/gp/help/customer/display.html/?&nodeId=202073840
<br />
DE:
https://www.amazon.de/gp/help/customer/display.html/ref=hp_left_v4_sib?ie=UTF8&nodeId=202073840
<br />
<br />
You can try using the first link, and if the first one does not work, you can
try using the other ones I provide you.<br />
If you need more assistance, please don't hesitate and contact us again.http://www.amazon.com/gp/help/contact-us/general-questions.html<br />
You may call us If you need additional assistance or have further questions.<br />
We've provided the link below which will take you directly to our help pages:<br />
We can be reached by phone 24 hours a day, seven days a week using the
following link:<br />
<br />
Contacting us through the website allows you to verify security before a call
is placed and ensures we have your account information ready when we call you.<br />
<br />
To contact us,
visit https://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/contact-us and follow
the prompts.<br />
To request a call from our customer service department, please follow the steps
below:<br />
<br />
1. Visit http://www.amazon.com/help<br />
2. Click the "Contact Us" button in the Customer Service box on the
right side of the page.<br />
3. Click the "Skip sign in" button.<br />
4. Click the "Phone" tab and enter your phone number in the window
that pops up.<br />
5. Choose a time frame ("Right Now" or "In 5 minutes") and
click "Submit."<br />
We'll call you right back!</p><p class="MsoNormal">3. Thank you for your inquiry about Kindle Direct Publishing.
With Kindle Direct Publishing, you can self-publish Kindle and paperback books
on Amazon.<br />
You can find more information about getting started at:<br />
https://kdp.amazon.com/self-publishing/help<br />
If you need assistance with an existing account or have questions, go to the
following link, login, then click contact us at the bottom of the page:<br />
<br />
<span class="MsoHyperlink"><a href="https://kdp.amazon.com/contact-us">https://kdp.amazon.com/contact-us</a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #cc0000;">4. I am very sorry that you are so desperate and seem to find
no solution to login to your account. I would like to mention that this is a
global problem and many authors can not get their OTP or when they do, they get
the internal error message <br />
Our last option in this type of cases is to suggest to our publishers to create
a new account and afterwards, report back to us, so we can merge the old and
new one. <br />
I am sorry you have to go through it, but currently is our last measurement as
well,</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Blogger Warning: Note that one cannot just create a new account becuase they will pick up on the fact that your phone number or email are the same as the old account so you will be blocked from setting up another account. </span> <br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">5. Please use your KDP credentials to log into amazon, follow
the steps below to change the phone number or enable an authenticator app<br />
<br />
An authenticator app is a software application that generates a one-time
password (OTP), which you can use for two-step verification. You can download
authenticator apps from the app store on your smartphone or mobile device
(tablet, iPad). On desktop computers, you can download an authenticator as a
browser extension (add-on).<br />
There are many third-party authenticator apps, such as Google Authenticator and
Microsoft Authenticator. You can use any app you want. These apps don’t have
access to your Amazon account information.<br />
<br />
To download an authenticator app: <br />
1. Search for an authenticator app:<br />
- Smartphones or mobile devices: Go to the app store and search for
"authenticator app." Search results will show third-party apps such
as Google Authenticator and Microsoft Authenticator. You can use any app.<br />
- Desktop computers: Use a search engine to find an authenticator extension
(add-on) that works with your browser. For example, if you use Firefox, search
for "Firefox authenticator." <br />
2. Download the authenticator app or extension of your choice. <br />
3. Go to your Amazon customer account on Amazon.com. <br />
4. Under "Account & Lists," click "Your Account" <br />
5. Choose "Login & Security." <br />
6. Click "Edit" next to "Two-Step Verification (2SV)
Settings." <br />
7. In the "Enrolled 2SV Authenticators" section, click "Add new
phone or Authenticator App."<br />
8. Enter the OTP number to proceed signing in <br />
9. Choose "Authenticator App" and follow the instructions that
appear.<br />
To learn more about authenticator apps, check Help: <span class="MsoHyperlink"><a href="https://kdp.amazon.com/help/topic/G6HTFZJLJ7AJQ56R">https://kdp.amazon.com/help/topic/G6HTFZJLJ7AJQ56R</a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">6. I understand the authenticator didn't work, but were you not
able to update the phone number?<br />
step 7 allows you to add an authenticator app or a new phone number, you do
this at the amazon level and it will also affect the KDP level.: <br />
7. In the "Enrolled 2SV Authenticators" section, click "Add new
phone or Authenticator App."<br />
Once verification is enabled you will be able to receive your OTP also for your
KDP login<br />
Thanks for using Amazon KDP,</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">7.Can I ask yo please to attach an image of your identity
document or drivers license so we can open a case to temporarily de-activate
your account security <br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">8. Thank you for bringing this to our attention.<br />
We need a little time to look into the problem with your two step verification<br />
We’ll reply and send you more information within 2-3 business days. Thanks for
your patience.<br />
Thanks for using Amazon KDP,</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">9. We recommend you work with the Amazon Retail Customer
Service department, as they are best equipped to help you with this issue.<br />
You can contact the Amazon Retail Customer Service department directly at:<br />
<br />
<span class="MsoHyperlink"><a href="https://www.amazon.com.au/gp/help/contact-us/general-questions.html">https://www.amazon.com.au/gp/help/contact-us/general-questions.html</a></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">10. We understand you wish to close your account and delete your
data.<br />
Protecting your privacy and the security of your data is and has always been a
top priority for us. The most secure and straight-forward way to submit the
request is to follow these steps:<br />
<br />
1. Go to Close Your Amazon Account: https://www.amazon.com/privacy/data-deletion<br />
<br />
2. Sign into the account you want to close.<br />
<br />
3. Review the products and services associated with your account.<br />
<br />
4. If you still wish to proceed, select a reason in the drop-down menu. Tick
the box next to "Yes, I want to permanently close my Amazon account and
delete its data" and select "Close My Account."<br />
<br />
Please note that the closure is permanent and afterwards the account will no
longer be available to you. We will not be able to restore the account.<br />
<br />
If you decide later that you want to start ordering from us again, or if you
would like to use products and services that require an account, you will need
to create a new account.<br />
<br />
By requesting the closure of your Amazon account on any Amazon site, you'll
also lose access to all the products and services offered across all Amazon
sites globally where you use the same login credentials (email, mobile phone
number, and password).This includes, among others, international Amazon sites
(for example amazon.ca, amazon.fr, amazon.com.mx), and Audible, etc.<br />
<br />
If you have multiple accounts, follow the provided steps for each of them to
ensure that we have the correct authority to take action on each account you
wish to close. A confirmation notification will be sent to the email address
associated to your account or via text message. You'll need to reply within 5
days to verify your request. If you are experiencing issues with logging into
the account you wish to close, visit the following Help page: <span class="MsoHyperlink"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html?nodeId=GAM5QWMWMTFCHEQT">https://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html?nodeId=GAM5QWMWMTFCHEQT</a></span></p>
<br /><br /><br /><p></p>Frances Lawsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08107995840713193160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5507816931969163563.post-80913376774687940262024-02-03T17:16:00.000-08:002024-02-03T17:16:15.992-08:00Lots to see at Arrowtown<p><br /></p><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDQqD77bX6AFhVLk3UblldO-DiIdwpOpwj9TZTNcS0qiN6nkzP6Y_s56zFZywC4LEeZzGxR3-zNEEV86hpQxufOwBD6ZmAjQDR6x9NGpjA__347mxWAXDsDwRWQaaj6JriwJItcDC6Gwke6Gy8t7aL_1fslQwXCE7ntYq26JViZpLwOXRoD0FF6Ed_iuU/s4032/IMG_5751.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDQqD77bX6AFhVLk3UblldO-DiIdwpOpwj9TZTNcS0qiN6nkzP6Y_s56zFZywC4LEeZzGxR3-zNEEV86hpQxufOwBD6ZmAjQDR6x9NGpjA__347mxWAXDsDwRWQaaj6JriwJItcDC6Gwke6Gy8t7aL_1fslQwXCE7ntYq26JViZpLwOXRoD0FF6Ed_iuU/w400-h300/IMG_5751.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>If you are staying at Queenstown and the person you are with can't or won't do bungy-jumping, the gondola, jet boating, rafting or water fun on the lake what can you do to pass the time?<p></p><p>Head off to Arrowtown, it's not far and is certainly worth the effort. Regardless of the time of year you visit there are some must-dos. I didn't get to do most of these as my international guest was too preoccupied with the excellent souvenir shops, so we ran out of time to see much else.<br /></p><p><b> The Lakes District Museum & info centre:</b></p><p><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih8JELIqEw5XINsvhKfyFejkeAkVtRpgDC5QwnLw-xJLtKjykOaq6JggyGas-SHXH_a6ZKlyo9stQ-UeKLD9TGf9GTYLTG6ZBML3uREgy28OIUsAXMdkDzhMv89CC2w11ULNr3d5CN6vv84KiCJiB6hcKqk7qbteJx_0v6aIh-CML_jhDcGUoCeXgYuqs/s6016/DSC_1732.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEih8JELIqEw5XINsvhKfyFejkeAkVtRpgDC5QwnLw-xJLtKjykOaq6JggyGas-SHXH_a6ZKlyo9stQ-UeKLD9TGf9GTYLTG6ZBML3uREgy28OIUsAXMdkDzhMv89CC2w11ULNr3d5CN6vv84KiCJiB6hcKqk7qbteJx_0v6aIh-CML_jhDcGUoCeXgYuqs/w400-h266/DSC_1732.JPG" width="400" /></a>This building used to be the town bank. It is a wee gem; far more interesting than you might suppose. The exhibits on <i>life in a goldrush town</i> are in good condition, well laid out with great information.<b> </b></div><p></p><p></p>The first section you come to looks at gold mining and gold panning. Everything is clean and tidy and well explained with Shotover gold nuggets on display.Some information on gold exchange and the ancient banking system was of interest. Getting hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of gold to the bank was fraught with danger.<br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrhl1Dmy-NPiW5Zznm2SKECUMjz7Xo-u_8FwXLSoL_83la5ZuaWf2R7AZSCpUcxrneG_PNFzaFdcJGdG3wG8_3VeC6nEv2tN0qRpmDrB30zoFM9BKydicwvjr0rBevvtVbzyQzVYBCKBjb4eHiNouCN539uH6R3_SurddDLZ0mSaxYeEe2dVWm-EuRmqw/s6016/DSC_1724.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrhl1Dmy-NPiW5Zznm2SKECUMjz7Xo-u_8FwXLSoL_83la5ZuaWf2R7AZSCpUcxrneG_PNFzaFdcJGdG3wG8_3VeC6nEv2tN0qRpmDrB30zoFM9BKydicwvjr0rBevvtVbzyQzVYBCKBjb4eHiNouCN539uH6R3_SurddDLZ0mSaxYeEe2dVWm-EuRmqw/w400-h266/DSC_1724.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>I was particularly surprised to see an exhibit on music and how settlers used to amuse themselves at home. Truly old musical instruments were on display and even photos showing them being used in <br />those times. Nowhere else have I seen that sort of exhibit. Instruments most certainly do change form and technology as the centuries advance.<p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3hNns1uyPHk1ssoDuKi6U43PB6L06oWoDsO4OSiqLkCQkE2q4j3M9Oj2hRnSv1eHriOjpG29_u7NAIdJ9qmWBoPZwjtPrUf91ezHY-SJmz3HMyq-ybn9tlh2Y-Tty7dkaNjCNO7MeOpS6rhDrNY4MUGKBR1hu8qtBMhbZK9qZuo7hf7gzUfYAVw-AuMc/s6016/DSC_1725.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3hNns1uyPHk1ssoDuKi6U43PB6L06oWoDsO4OSiqLkCQkE2q4j3M9Oj2hRnSv1eHriOjpG29_u7NAIdJ9qmWBoPZwjtPrUf91ezHY-SJmz3HMyq-ybn9tlh2Y-Tty7dkaNjCNO7MeOpS6rhDrNY4MUGKBR1hu8qtBMhbZK9qZuo7hf7gzUfYAVw-AuMc/w400-h266/DSC_1725.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>A lot of effort has been put into showing various work activities such as sawmilling, blacksmithing, food production. I especially enjoyed getting up close and wandering around and inside these exhibits. The strangest one was a door one was encouraged to open to a very small room. If you opened the door you found yourself looking at someone on the toilet and a shriek went up. Very disconcerting but amusing. The person was an animated mannequin.<br /><p></p><p></p><p></p>I couldn't help but be struck by the hardships and physical struggles men and women had 150 years ago. Just how far <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHtqXPdzP_XUyKJGZlY49L3uTVW5YuTyMgrqjwFGgU1o0YjXkd2TVFTtP4ABImZz9K1CTnJSXytBwByrkyMMVinXqRaKj5RoZpGbfLXubhF0WuWGqqR6S_3wLd_ofwxpB9QAcAmSZImYZysj7JWYBRvLqNNxVuRyuLOoktwhRZoXXuEJ8T3SDWqmLRquU/s6016/DSC_1729.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6016" data-original-width="4000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHtqXPdzP_XUyKJGZlY49L3uTVW5YuTyMgrqjwFGgU1o0YjXkd2TVFTtP4ABImZz9K1CTnJSXytBwByrkyMMVinXqRaKj5RoZpGbfLXubhF0WuWGqqR6S_3wLd_ofwxpB9QAcAmSZImYZysj7JWYBRvLqNNxVuRyuLOoktwhRZoXXuEJ8T3SDWqmLRquU/w266-h400/DSC_1729.JPG" width="266" /></a>we have come with technology and also education for women.<p></p>I could also see how those with some education and entrepreneurial urges could really make a new and comfortable life. Because pretty much everything was needed and there wasn't a lot of competition. Got what it takes to be a teacher? Just start your own school. So little red tape. Nowdays you are actively discouraged from doing what you are good at.<p>If you are an early to mid 'boomer' you'll remember learning the old British Imperial system of weights and measures and money. In the display school room they had a sheet showing shillings, pounds and guineas. And hey, the old times tables up to 12. </p><p>Most kids these days have no idea of their times tables, even up to 10. All I have of the old money is one precious sixpence my Gran used to put in her Christmas Plum Puddings, and the odd shilling and penny. No paper money. Still, I do have one coin from each of the British monarchs from Queen Victoria onwards. What stories those old coins might tell.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihC1F7h5nHzDeWWpGKz1v-9w4Obo6Ww34wyZqmKoX9J2oQ5OH4hw342rA6Wn7J6nWWj0S_kVLDmF0qbnKo8Rj3Pk8ZrJyuymCX92NY3tjFwRjW1t_RXmJiiTBac29WKwiM8fZDNBp8nzNx3rBL8ErtGYbV5MUcT99G56f5mMAuTpo5pFMcNeXul_PkgF4/s6016/DSC_1726.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihC1F7h5nHzDeWWpGKz1v-9w4Obo6Ww34wyZqmKoX9J2oQ5OH4hw342rA6Wn7J6nWWj0S_kVLDmF0qbnKo8Rj3Pk8ZrJyuymCX92NY3tjFwRjW1t_RXmJiiTBac29WKwiM8fZDNBp8nzNx3rBL8ErtGYbV5MUcT99G56f5mMAuTpo5pFMcNeXul_PkgF4/w640-h426/DSC_1726.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>We are ephemeral creatures. We don't live all that long and once our children have gone it is as if we never existed. Objects link us to history and to the ordinary lives of thoses long gone, not too dissimmilar to our own ordinary lives. What will we leave behind? With digital devices and their too-soon obsolete technologies there won't be much left to see.<p></p><p>An HP printer compared to the wonderful old printing press on display in this museum. I've seen old presses at other museums but this one seemed extra special. You can spend a good hour and a half at this museum. It costs about $10 per person entry. </p><p>At ground level there's a very good bookshop with souvenirs too. It features NZ travel, culture and history.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidsnS7uPU8ECvnSNaO_-WeVrk1Ugafp0uD8EynQdY6csEVQiIuPtA4XbsJqaaACXBVfpt9ZTHoeaXSr4xc7hJT0lZjHGS3PYszJZIzXOYk_NgKkxOu-gWqBRUw4Wj3wN5SHXAXscFPPlmpaa7OaWnNNia8vosKCzoKoISH8eC7dsW7RMLPLBYN3Ui7HsI/s6016/DSC_1728.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidsnS7uPU8ECvnSNaO_-WeVrk1Ugafp0uD8EynQdY6csEVQiIuPtA4XbsJqaaACXBVfpt9ZTHoeaXSr4xc7hJT0lZjHGS3PYszJZIzXOYk_NgKkxOu-gWqBRUw4Wj3wN5SHXAXscFPPlmpaa7OaWnNNia8vosKCzoKoISH8eC7dsW7RMLPLBYN3Ui7HsI/w640-h426/DSC_1728.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p>Beyond the museum there is the main street to explore. The souvenir shops are numerous and of excellent quality and they contain plenty of merchandise you won't see anywhere else. It could be such a picturesque street if only they would ban cars from parking there. I found it impossible to take photos of the beautiful fronts of the buildings due to cars in the way. What a shame! There are other streets where cars are less evident but those buildings are of lesser interest.<br /><p></p><p>There is a little shop that was quite a surprise and a delight, located on Buckingham St. It is a lolly shop, the </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgED2JoKkk8bHy0Lmsqpmy0F0mujGnmzjjWvc4XstlBxNNO7n7dZ78D2nxN7s84a6JTbXoTocgUOww-mXZGUkld9j5N2TUtYXege-xp-r72Bww71vBnysdDOhE5XddiLzXcx5xYirAkmHb3vLM53hvL93hKLIze5kFR8EIpfe7tcUEPynN7luHUpHKYFGE/s6016/DSC_1735.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6016" data-original-width="4000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgED2JoKkk8bHy0Lmsqpmy0F0mujGnmzjjWvc4XstlBxNNO7n7dZ78D2nxN7s84a6JTbXoTocgUOww-mXZGUkld9j5N2TUtYXege-xp-r72Bww71vBnysdDOhE5XddiLzXcx5xYirAkmHb3vLM53hvL93hKLIze5kFR8EIpfe7tcUEPynN7luHUpHKYFGE/w266-h400/DSC_1735.JPG" width="266" /></a></i></div><i>Remarkable Sweet Shop</i>. But what a lolly shop. Sweets that reminded my of my childhood, sweets from other cultures, sweets unknown, chocolates made <i>a la maison. </i>I left without buying anything. There was too much that was yummy to choose so it was better for me not to.<i><br /></i><p></p><p><b>Other things to do for which I didn't have time:</b> </p><p>There's
a specialist wine store <i>The Winery </i>which looked really interesting and
had a good selection of NZ wine but they don't post to Europe. Only
Asia. Lost me there. Plenty of Asian tourists but few from elsewhere. I
really think we've turned off other visitors to these shores.</p><p>Gibbston
Valley Winery which hosts the annual rock festival in the Gibbston
Valley is only a little further along from Arrowtown, as is Lake Hayes -
spectacular in autumn.</p><p><b>Nature walk along the Arrow River</b></p>There are two walks: a 60min one and a 10 min stroll with different views. <p><b>The Chinese Settlement</b></p>Most 19th century Chinese miners
were poor and not very welcome. They came to to strick it rich enough to
send money back to their families. They had their own separate town by
the river, which included their own stores. The settlement on vue today
is restored AND recreated. I hope I'll be back one day to see it.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNsB0tf_QKvO4IKYxc_hjieExfB9he9D-3qUL_zozaUFRrZPlZZRzgwl71Ri-ZvfkbSKERwLow49omCOXV-Kn6ye59vkY-giHMHKtP9nsWBYl4OQc459SvVXCl7InmBxCM2QnXLevBOpcJck-Kfb_Na8VF9kzGjhEuHHroPoDBVME_SKyLQn5OVQuVrDI/s6016/DSC_1737.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNsB0tf_QKvO4IKYxc_hjieExfB9he9D-3qUL_zozaUFRrZPlZZRzgwl71Ri-ZvfkbSKERwLow49omCOXV-Kn6ye59vkY-giHMHKtP9nsWBYl4OQc459SvVXCl7InmBxCM2QnXLevBOpcJck-Kfb_Na8VF9kzGjhEuHHroPoDBVME_SKyLQn5OVQuVrDI/w640-h426/DSC_1737.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><br /><br /><br /><p><b>Art Galleries:</b></p><p>I did visit one. There were a couple of large and good quality pieces supervised by a French lady. Again, too expensive.<br /></p><p><b>Golf Courses:</b></p><p>There are three courses with fantastic scenery - Millbrook, the Hills, and the Arrowtown Golf Club, rated in the NZ top 20.</p><p>Arrowtown is worth a visit at any time of the year.<br /></p>Frances Lawsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08107995840713193160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5507816931969163563.post-5938356296298869942024-01-01T20:04:00.000-08:002024-01-01T20:04:29.929-08:00Shantytown on a quiet day<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp8fkA-u7UvrKtbQMD-PzU0cO6YUJCrP2oEEoKA69cxWlpR2N9gBia8A5fxchqiaNEdVDBBtT1Bz7bVZUfyXvWY8MbrCKqBl3zE8bR4jFPzjafVHovfmTh0Z44UDXQVL1obpcIyd6Bmfsr4R22mQinkHVMzo_dbkI5obsI9LW07_BeOMDonZ4bDpatlps/s6016/DSC_1673.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp8fkA-u7UvrKtbQMD-PzU0cO6YUJCrP2oEEoKA69cxWlpR2N9gBia8A5fxchqiaNEdVDBBtT1Bz7bVZUfyXvWY8MbrCKqBl3zE8bR4jFPzjafVHovfmTh0Z44UDXQVL1obpcIyd6Bmfsr4R22mQinkHVMzo_dbkI5obsI9LW07_BeOMDonZ4bDpatlps/w400-h266/DSC_1673.JPG" width="400" /></a> There's not a heck of a lot to do at Greymouth, West Coast of the South Island but what there is should include a trip to ShantyTown. I hadn't been there since I took a St Marks School class trip there in 1985. Book at the iSite at the train station and you'll get a 10% discount. Shantytown was built to preserve the Coast's 19th century gold, timber and steam-powered pioneer history.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj-9PiblNv0MEwn_Ac9EycnfvVp96JLlcx7JIOfSh8zYyP8P127pwAQ-XyWqWMmxRq72vncHUOYBN_OEXbX4jBJJ08yxFcvXr6DZZ4M_sBn4PIw24_-bhrW5RngXNsiwfX0PFT0ALQFSfmQe5I3b2Aclz3bmpRZylPMD6ZB1B9yJa8RNsFvDJXSDRGYRM/s6016/DSC_1674.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj-9PiblNv0MEwn_Ac9EycnfvVp96JLlcx7JIOfSh8zYyP8P127pwAQ-XyWqWMmxRq72vncHUOYBN_OEXbX4jBJJ08yxFcvXr6DZZ4M_sBn4PIw24_-bhrW5RngXNsiwfX0PFT0ALQFSfmQe5I3b2Aclz3bmpRZylPMD6ZB1B9yJa8RNsFvDJXSDRGYRM/w400-h266/DSC_1674.JPG" width="400" /></a>It looks a bit Wild West and so it must have been back in the gold rush days. Those of us who are baby-boomers may just recognise some household items and shop equipment originating between 1850 to 1940, from our youth. It's an amazing collection of detail. ShantyTown is home to a collection of over 10,000 objects, 2000 photographs and 1000 archives. </p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD_2ohsE1Ehjr5AwP6MNkFGToPtdopTY_iP1dxfX7zwN5BzCtJwBkeshl-blroCpld997umlIDUgl-5B117JxhfObMjM7aiCuVhUl5sO9K-CgQe5vbwTV4QISHObzHF-XLp4c1jc10M-5lTIFVp-_wWfMNm4gbvhTvf-EDfbuJTMVqXCldPdw0xoANFSU/s4032/IMG_5531.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD_2ohsE1Ehjr5AwP6MNkFGToPtdopTY_iP1dxfX7zwN5BzCtJwBkeshl-blroCpld997umlIDUgl-5B117JxhfObMjM7aiCuVhUl5sO9K-CgQe5vbwTV4QISHObzHF-XLp4c1jc10M-5lTIFVp-_wWfMNm4gbvhTvf-EDfbuJTMVqXCldPdw0xoANFSU/w400-h300/IMG_5531.jpg" width="400" /></a>I visited this tourism activity on a very quiet and sunny morning.It was pleasant to stroll, take the time to look at all the information and collectables but without any crowds it lacked a certain energy. Can't have it all. So... lots of time spent checking out the shops, hospital and pharmacy, firestation, schoolhouse, forge, jail, gemstones and minerals gallery, newspaper office, church and we finished with a look at the recently added Masonic Lodge (not my interest at all).<br /></p><p>If you'd like to practice gold panning you can do so. You are bound to get some specks in the bottom of your pan and there's a hydraulic slicing gun that shows how water was used to blast gold-bearing gravel down races and flumes.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8XDWO1Vu_zJV0p9llqxXcaa4_3XSFYwZbdApbQBPd-kzHqVbJDJIaAVpGwVNRLlPFHkNC7BWqIOZW5o048ZkzWArpUwDnR1exESZ4rYDdhn2wHXDuCOk-Z-8foylcWfpkGXhqcWm203v-iGCkyTcrECp-keD-_5zTkZSB9C52Hs110aOGFQkYInin7OQ/s6016/DSC_1683.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8XDWO1Vu_zJV0p9llqxXcaa4_3XSFYwZbdApbQBPd-kzHqVbJDJIaAVpGwVNRLlPFHkNC7BWqIOZW5o048ZkzWArpUwDnR1exESZ4rYDdhn2wHXDuCOk-Z-8foylcWfpkGXhqcWm203v-iGCkyTcrECp-keD-_5zTkZSB9C52Hs110aOGFQkYInin7OQ/w400-h266/DSC_1683.JPG" width="400" /></a>A must do includes a heritage train ride that is included in your entry fee. It's a 20 minute trip on the Infants Creek Tramway which allows you time for photos and a chat with the driver. There are also information panels worth reading. The engine itself is a 1957 built TR 107 Diesel.</p><p>I had thought that with all the bush and trees around there might have
been more birdlife evident but all we saw was a very bold weka, making
off with the engine-driver's lunch. <br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipphUgtLRo_IjPhhygqAkp9hUwOp0whp4x97Z2UkHb2dAWtM5xeAArl3lY0Ctz6U6GLwJh0zBUyl2vgVxfqzECw3JUgnq0ihMP3m5xxxSCqqPezGfOUfr9P3BIxVSOamg90BqV6-6tjin2NLRbBRcaejxvvmtTjOOyrlWdEhajv1h0w-k8N0qqJQ1V2V0/s6016/DSC_1676.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipphUgtLRo_IjPhhygqAkp9hUwOp0whp4x97Z2UkHb2dAWtM5xeAArl3lY0Ctz6U6GLwJh0zBUyl2vgVxfqzECw3JUgnq0ihMP3m5xxxSCqqPezGfOUfr9P3BIxVSOamg90BqV6-6tjin2NLRbBRcaejxvvmtTjOOyrlWdEhajv1h0w-k8N0qqJQ1V2V0/w400-h266/DSC_1676.JPG" width="400" /></a>The sawmill looks like it could still reduce a forest giant to planks and contains heaps of equipment and information on this important sector. We were informed that the forest lost will take 600 years to regenerate. Sixty years of milling destroyed what had taken hundreds of years to create. But NZ needed houses and buildings and exports at the time. There is no more felling of native forests these days, just the imported pine species.</p><p>There's an area called Chinatown which shows us that by the mid 1870s the chinese made up the largest minority group on the West Coast goldfields. Their accommodation was so primitive. There's also a short miners tunnel to explore.</p><p><br /></p><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNw0Hn-3VMUE2Kp1MQdCyhNoN8_JlS4I1S6oKNcLC3wOcGU91IDis3UXay0kqCOYl7gF6UnJfyF9L9Mlv8dx1sZ3sdmC25gPWKJH5o1h6Bnu-cltT_Ao0UoXH0a7W9YS9a57hj-HfZXCdvxGLSA_ZUgL_ypix-E_rmj_fEd-D91codEi378mzaF12r6XI/s4032/IMG_5518.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNw0Hn-3VMUE2Kp1MQdCyhNoN8_JlS4I1S6oKNcLC3wOcGU91IDis3UXay0kqCOYl7gF6UnJfyF9L9Mlv8dx1sZ3sdmC25gPWKJH5o1h6Bnu-cltT_Ao0UoXH0a7W9YS9a57hj-HfZXCdvxGLSA_ZUgL_ypix-E_rmj_fEd-D91codEi378mzaF12r6XI/w400-h300/IMG_5518.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>The Holographic Theatre wasn't working when I visited but there was still plenty of information around on murders, hard lives of deprivation, local characters, industry and politics.<p></p><p>If you want to send a letter from the Post Office it is fully functional. All mail sent from it bears the ShantyTown postmark. Stamps and postcards are available. </p><p>The jail was interesting and so was the forge. It reminded me a wee bit of Ferrymead in Chirstchurch.<br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpSLWUr0pP2OfLM0WrGC8csHNGNsucjoWf21S0pkNGJNfPPayxph9Td47lXQm-X5PNHmVSt_hkdefHjnEwrXNSaDfKZquzBu_Ti3A9yeSpcNrhGsoNpxI55rP8UyiRLkkgIzGdejPuJ6I1UiO0l7MoQcOOez3f2vJyuW2SAGcGr_TknuHMXj33kiFtd7A/s6016/DSC_1693.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpSLWUr0pP2OfLM0WrGC8csHNGNsucjoWf21S0pkNGJNfPPayxph9Td47lXQm-X5PNHmVSt_hkdefHjnEwrXNSaDfKZquzBu_Ti3A9yeSpcNrhGsoNpxI55rP8UyiRLkkgIzGdejPuJ6I1UiO0l7MoQcOOez3f2vJyuW2SAGcGr_TknuHMXj33kiFtd7A/w400-h266/DSC_1693.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>There was quite a bit of nostagia here for me as I identified household objects I remembered my grandmother using. I must admit, it was nice to see some acknowledgement of the huge contributions early settlers had made. Many adventurers came to the West Coast and Otago from many parts of the world hoping to strike it rich from gold back in the nineteenth century.<br /><p></p><p></p>It is possible to download a free audioguide if you'd like to take a self-guided tour. There's free wi-fi and a children's playground onsite with plenty of car parking.<br /><p></p><p>Call for info: 0800 742 689<br />Visit: https://shantytown.co.nz</p><p>ShantyTown is located between
Greymouth and Hokitika – just 3kms off the main highway (SH6).</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpWyKKbMGmRei-6APsrddYT_DuLsV4-65Jnf1Ps_TDh-t_L4uTIZq5vX_FpuOwAl0KMVjVDb3TQweU-blh9S_VvfVuQf8028ZWqAjzoql81waJBPobrSvdRaC1GtCJvQracICZ2VD7ggkzMGLQuQ8GvOPcpbaFbBunLxxfPzYbffPxfgy1LzG5cy3H0XU/s6016/DSC_1687.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpWyKKbMGmRei-6APsrddYT_DuLsV4-65Jnf1Ps_TDh-t_L4uTIZq5vX_FpuOwAl0KMVjVDb3TQweU-blh9S_VvfVuQf8028ZWqAjzoql81waJBPobrSvdRaC1GtCJvQracICZ2VD7ggkzMGLQuQ8GvOPcpbaFbBunLxxfPzYbffPxfgy1LzG5cy3H0XU/w640-h426/DSC_1687.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlewnMelv6k8-rUhxSWz942-8jNDm79GmWQC5ILZZ5pnw1AO2Ul3HsXqOojakdaAEPnjsGrwS6EySUQGeyFtt5NZivyd-I8PjEutDvyDz_Rp6K1q4wjkh0BrTxW4mdeudRGBUrYTbwDDZy2QdmV8E4S58RWNVyPm8OPt80CrGB203nIoq7Ctx1syEmxoE/s6016/DSC_1672.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlewnMelv6k8-rUhxSWz942-8jNDm79GmWQC5ILZZ5pnw1AO2Ul3HsXqOojakdaAEPnjsGrwS6EySUQGeyFtt5NZivyd-I8PjEutDvyDz_Rp6K1q4wjkh0BrTxW4mdeudRGBUrYTbwDDZy2QdmV8E4S58RWNVyPm8OPt80CrGB203nIoq7Ctx1syEmxoE/w640-h426/DSC_1672.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p>Frances Lawsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08107995840713193160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5507816931969163563.post-80867854297036812942023-12-09T17:18:00.000-08:002023-12-09T17:18:50.631-08:00TransAlpine goes West<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX2AjOwKGq5QlMpzsgMrBel-uJZDdCm1Ak9zqhTWE7bpRrgI1TZ2bgAP3WWTUI0oGCKpSeIspqc8AOCsQdBPl7bYpChCqQKYCaQ54UkGnB60hRsbyCguToxqWxkPYTmrKiJh-6sgZrr8u7qaY0X5GTcpYapGkrT2WWe6vOBWOJqFrUgKaiFj2kzLQJjhI/s6016/DSC_1620.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6016" data-original-width="4000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX2AjOwKGq5QlMpzsgMrBel-uJZDdCm1Ak9zqhTWE7bpRrgI1TZ2bgAP3WWTUI0oGCKpSeIspqc8AOCsQdBPl7bYpChCqQKYCaQ54UkGnB60hRsbyCguToxqWxkPYTmrKiJh-6sgZrr8u7qaY0X5GTcpYapGkrT2WWe6vOBWOJqFrUgKaiFj2kzLQJjhI/w266-h400/DSC_1620.JPG" width="266" /></a>An opportunity to take a train journey which I could not afford for myself presented itself. I snatched it as I love the comfort of train travel (so long as it's not standing-room-only at commuter time).</p><p>The TranzAlpine scenic tourist rain runs from Christchurch to Greymouth, or Greymouth to Christchurch as a one-way trip. It is quite expensive at NZ$239 + but the trip covers 223 kilometres (139 miles) one-way and takes just under 5 hours, providing a very relaxing and interesting experience. </p><p>The open-air viewing carriage allows keen photographers to take photos without the glare of windows but be warned, it is feverishly windy, hang on tight and initially you'll be scrabbling for a viewing spot before other passengers get blase and disappear back to more comfortable carriages.</p><p>The weather wasn't warm so I didn't avail myself of a chance to step out at a brief stop and it was a shame there was almost no snow. It must be a marvellous scene in early Spring travelling through the Great Divide and its majestic peaks. You'll see a variety of landscapes and land-use along the way.<br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbWCGkxL8FP83tEgP5n-JfoxigP9Y4Wa1_3_KqMZxHVm0b-6Po3YosCK2PnGUiSdonWSBqWQ0SRyneocI77kvoZKqSMK2FY1EC6tUHjn9jIFf_W8pcbL-UvFwIBid24NQNz7zWMOUTZBmu0a8tQT5Vn-el6Le4IzXCNEyDFez4BClLSzaueB5cJVyQsWw/s4032/IMG_5352.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbWCGkxL8FP83tEgP5n-JfoxigP9Y4Wa1_3_KqMZxHVm0b-6Po3YosCK2PnGUiSdonWSBqWQ0SRyneocI77kvoZKqSMK2FY1EC6tUHjn9jIFf_W8pcbL-UvFwIBid24NQNz7zWMOUTZBmu0a8tQT5Vn-el6Le4IzXCNEyDFez4BClLSzaueB5cJVyQsWw/w400-h300/IMG_5352.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Passengers are supplied with headphones to listen to an informative commentary as they roll along. I learned a few things about the history of the Canterbury Plains which are the most changed natural environment in NZ. It was bad enough with the sheep and wheat in the past but now it's all irrigation pivots and intensive dairy farming which I find distressing. The amount of potable artesian water being vomitted onto fields was shocking.<br /><p></p><p>I got on the train at the Rolleston station but most passengers would get on at Christchurch. There are stewards to assist.<br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzAhJFrFU_fl0Img4v9riRWgixo-yZB2XRbvNVCjyWXylYIx6N_xCJKQXU7swpS_gl4mpv8Ll10IyE6couRJ8XxETdFWvBy6HtWq-lfYyFhZBL19JxaPTdxHv5tzaOOVDQpYTeAS3-ietOjp0FDKG8JAQIlZDvkux8AU5Ppdw2N9hX10DQ3Zb7b0Q3sNk/s6016/DSC_1622.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzAhJFrFU_fl0Img4v9riRWgixo-yZB2XRbvNVCjyWXylYIx6N_xCJKQXU7swpS_gl4mpv8Ll10IyE6couRJ8XxETdFWvBy6HtWq-lfYyFhZBL19JxaPTdxHv5tzaOOVDQpYTeAS3-ietOjp0FDKG8JAQIlZDvkux8AU5Ppdw2N9hX10DQ3Zb7b0Q3sNk/w400-h266/DSC_1622.JPG" width="400" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_aIzCjV6_-vlSEVv1bhLg2sWpqYnzEOtCkyvtnisfiPz48aBdDT0sKKMu_EPIoq-fDj3vEE3DiJ4A9j59lbRzuxnPT4kYRY06q5ZBIbCStE0Q23LDmMnntVKmyS4wHOaYLVw4x2ZS3Q8GXCu8WZZq5fVqVC3a9lAlFMgAqEbG7_jU4Xr9g-R-db530T4/s6016/DSC_1630.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6016" data-original-width="4000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_aIzCjV6_-vlSEVv1bhLg2sWpqYnzEOtCkyvtnisfiPz48aBdDT0sKKMu_EPIoq-fDj3vEE3DiJ4A9j59lbRzuxnPT4kYRY06q5ZBIbCStE0Q23LDmMnntVKmyS4wHOaYLVw4x2ZS3Q8GXCu8WZZq5fVqVC3a9lAlFMgAqEbG7_jU4Xr9g-R-db530T4/s320/DSC_1630.JPG" width="213" /></a><br /></div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRrmhNSuE3L8N4uSs4GvaQKC46Q76L3neJWtal1WeWgYL-5uIH21sDgM3C_3K3VHvgkb5tCBomO_5__6elgGZjcrR_hA3lSYrvy9_B7fpykIeLO4UfO1fBpHoqdDMDBJwDJzsIpMpLbwcacAVnETy_nUl81JF51rQUEYXfXDGniTB5q9QqbgXSvCgIowo/s6016/DSC_1639.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRrmhNSuE3L8N4uSs4GvaQKC46Q76L3neJWtal1WeWgYL-5uIH21sDgM3C_3K3VHvgkb5tCBomO_5__6elgGZjcrR_hA3lSYrvy9_B7fpykIeLO4UfO1fBpHoqdDMDBJwDJzsIpMpLbwcacAVnETy_nUl81JF51rQUEYXfXDGniTB5q9QqbgXSvCgIowo/w640-h426/DSC_1639.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjub_jK31hWiYKr4wdQ2u2cDZzdZxItmXOuzWu_IFJ03djD-hKCbbMnwewnNsl-70gxWfqhWPoVhfFSgRiiMBpIzTqaVFRXseRFVowv2-Aaiq7y4cRFEqMaTlL7MfNKLK7JLhP4vaRINDHhRecp6S56dnNCmeQe53Wzc2Q2Oa6SAjcsoVe6DDU3v66Rxbo/s6016/DSC_1635.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjub_jK31hWiYKr4wdQ2u2cDZzdZxItmXOuzWu_IFJ03djD-hKCbbMnwewnNsl-70gxWfqhWPoVhfFSgRiiMBpIzTqaVFRXseRFVowv2-Aaiq7y4cRFEqMaTlL7MfNKLK7JLhP4vaRINDHhRecp6S56dnNCmeQe53Wzc2Q2Oa6SAjcsoVe6DDU3v66Rxbo/w400-h266/DSC_1635.JPG" width="400" /></a>The refreshments car has very nice leather armchairs - a very civilised way to travel across the Southern Alps. Hot drinks and snacks can be purchased and service is good.<br /></p><p>Along the way there are short stops at Springfield and Arthur's Pass. You'll travel past Otira, entering the 8km long tunnel, pass by Lake Brunner before arriving at Greymouth on the West Coast, where the train slows to cross mid-town traffic as it pulls into the station. </p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGGRLGMLIjGiMDyI1N3BCvcHrsCDeWaQW7Jsud4txS-VzPDBJnpYtZPB3TjvAiLRN5caQylRtNKs6HrmIndaKAzWRg7AsUOwCHmirbFL1roql2ivpr17bSr0ra-u9LgfRvCzS-DlJTp2JG2mDm_PQTw0INmQXE1ikRAMXHLl5cqu4Tz2ehVbRBxgmv6Xo/s4032/IMG_5431.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGGRLGMLIjGiMDyI1N3BCvcHrsCDeWaQW7Jsud4txS-VzPDBJnpYtZPB3TjvAiLRN5caQylRtNKs6HrmIndaKAzWRg7AsUOwCHmirbFL1roql2ivpr17bSr0ra-u9LgfRvCzS-DlJTp2JG2mDm_PQTw0INmQXE1ikRAMXHLl5cqu4Tz2ehVbRBxgmv6Xo/w400-h300/IMG_5431.jpg" width="400" /></a>The only down-side to the train trip was having 5 louty adolscent males in the same carriage constantly making a noise and showing no interest at all in the views outside. They obviously weren't paying for themselves and they spoiled the experience for those of us forced to share a carriage with them. </p><p>Once you arrive at Greymouth you collect your luggage from the train and can then organise West Coast site-seeing and a rental car should you choose. The Speights Ale House provided a quality lunch though their dinner was less satisfying. After doing a spot of tourism we made our way to Hanmer Springs for a soak in the pools and an overnight stay before driving the rental to Christchurch via the Waipara vineyards - a short tasting at Greystones.<br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBM0shDmXMmS7jYJf-_Sdz1UexMvDaFDRLMKPO3Z2pH3HCI1ERCJdUuMRna-ua0GIFa0l65KJ62OKJZY0_MSW0viubY-an3hshGVP4u03mv2zx7gOSZ2Rp8Bn-f-YeZawuqbilZEoJ6Ms4NCn1LvrPeVEEdlvgLu9BccPk6yy5jxS6l7MiglismqAbOXw/s6016/DSC_1641.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBM0shDmXMmS7jYJf-_Sdz1UexMvDaFDRLMKPO3Z2pH3HCI1ERCJdUuMRna-ua0GIFa0l65KJ62OKJZY0_MSW0viubY-an3hshGVP4u03mv2zx7gOSZ2Rp8Bn-f-YeZawuqbilZEoJ6Ms4NCn1LvrPeVEEdlvgLu9BccPk6yy5jxS6l7MiglismqAbOXw/w640-h426/DSC_1641.JPG" width="640" /></a></p><div class="product-overview__image-wrapper"><div class="product-overview__image" style="background-image: url("/assets/Uploads/graphics/TranzAlpine-Train-Map-726x408.png"); background-position: 50% 50%;"><br /></div></div>Frances Lawsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08107995840713193160noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5507816931969163563.post-63732992479545747282023-11-21T17:45:00.000-08:002023-11-21T17:45:30.391-08:00Exciting news from Hobbiton<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJXQDlca6meF5lWKCl_NGmsttq1prOnSCaag-_6bUOzvtNoS6QiWXux7qay2uZa4aODLjIrErjmDL5Z_JRxj0CKcFQrTNcKn8EEVZt9VTBOzOSIfeu_ewYoVBOfBXbuYpK-LZwGnu8g53_m_NV6VqGKO4sUxvVyC9fsTVoSKqumENjw_YW7QiymtgsvQI/s6016/DSC_1535.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6016" data-original-width="4000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJXQDlca6meF5lWKCl_NGmsttq1prOnSCaag-_6bUOzvtNoS6QiWXux7qay2uZa4aODLjIrErjmDL5Z_JRxj0CKcFQrTNcKn8EEVZt9VTBOzOSIfeu_ewYoVBOfBXbuYpK-LZwGnu8g53_m_NV6VqGKO4sUxvVyC9fsTVoSKqumENjw_YW7QiymtgsvQI/w426-h640/DSC_1535.JPG" width="426" /></a></div> I'm back for a third visit to Hobbiton. Each time I enjoy it - entering that part of the imagination that is the Shire, Middle Earth (New Zealand). This year I was guiding a French national around the country and he loves anything Middle-Earth. Well, so do I and I knew big things were 'a-foot' in Hobbiton.<p></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO_ijCalNbfN4cjBfm_a5Bp-py0pkhC4_HMyMo3md9cSe-FsqEzsq0T7LfA3GS6pm0-j15DfqiaR8wU6zqbKcqGuVptV7liSviird8bAEV2n6U9-860bvb5zZxJL1NHIoGXoqWbNFxDLb4thbtCDsK2FbrXkSydQ_CR6WvPS5Aw5N9QS33SqSBsU2bxLU/s6016/DSC_1546.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO_ijCalNbfN4cjBfm_a5Bp-py0pkhC4_HMyMo3md9cSe-FsqEzsq0T7LfA3GS6pm0-j15DfqiaR8wU6zqbKcqGuVptV7liSviird8bAEV2n6U9-860bvb5zZxJL1NHIoGXoqWbNFxDLb4thbtCDsK2FbrXkSydQ_CR6WvPS5Aw5N9QS33SqSBsU2bxLU/w400-h266/DSC_1546.JPG" width="400" /></a>The ultimate experience of a hobbit hole begins 01 December this year (2023). Sssshhhttt! they are building hobbit holes of which you can tour the insides. Yes, folks, the Shire can now present a hobbit bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, pantry etc. You can be sure it will look like the films because the original illustrators and concept designers of Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit movies - John Howe and Alan Lee have designed it all. Utterly Cool!! If, like me, you have already visisted Hobbiton, you will just have to save up and go again because being inside a hole on Bagshot Row is a must-do.</p><p>While we were there we could see the construction teams hard at work trying to meet the opening deadline. Many members of these teams had worked on the constuction of Hobbiton in the past, especially when the set was made permanent for the Hobbit movies. From what I could see, the new furnished holes run right through this hill from front to back meaning there shoud be plenty of light inside. They are also building a working chimney. The hill being used is beside the Party Field.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirwhnlIeaW1B7Yb-2Oqh-ZEQwmY949dSnbKe0AnU91YnkcOMtIsDRtUOHG0bZC9D7aJc1FWF2TKIeaB-I7EtMTFTokMjQ2hi3MBJWH7tV8CD6-n1_GRFaLnFOg_cIfQM16g0iB66WT5037oMQYBub4Z25fKu0B79jSkMAT8vSGWuYgJBsdxMjZ-8X2VgY/s5547/DSC_1548.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3995" data-original-width="5547" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirwhnlIeaW1B7Yb-2Oqh-ZEQwmY949dSnbKe0AnU91YnkcOMtIsDRtUOHG0bZC9D7aJc1FWF2TKIeaB-I7EtMTFTokMjQ2hi3MBJWH7tV8CD6-n1_GRFaLnFOg_cIfQM16g0iB66WT5037oMQYBub4Z25fKu0B79jSkMAT8vSGWuYgJBsdxMjZ-8X2VgY/s320/DSC_1548.JPG" width="320" /></a>Future tours will last two and a half hours in duration, allowing plenty of time to explore the
intricate and detailed interiors of a Hobbit Hole, wander the gardens and fields and some extra
time to relax at The Green Dragon Inn where you can choose from a number of free beverages. I usually choose Cider but have never succeeded in finishing one because the tour guide always whips us away before I can finish my drink. The site brews its own ales, cider and ginger beer.<br /></p><p>In the future I will be able to drink any cider I like in my own time, as the kind marketing people gave us all our very own Prancing Pony mug as a thanks for coming over during construction. <br /></p><p>I must confess I came away with a very small scale hobbit hole statue from the shop. Who knows when I will ever get back but now there's a reason to come back for a fourth visit. And my international visitor loved his experience here.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit37Q6TMkqIvbetXzP6G9nREY0uAKCYmH8xyCHkPrIimuIimIwDuAtfzHgdPC-wILRMc02J_AITi_45gU_y0QFB2Ew0Emhr0uG-BJPWH_SIghgnGOtxCm0FqqtDwev0SnzANuo4OcMtPNd50dFEZwT7UWmMw5T4RYMlkGPPMBSYI-5_Cn-XCQ3TCzzyFg/s6016/DSC_1553.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit37Q6TMkqIvbetXzP6G9nREY0uAKCYmH8xyCHkPrIimuIimIwDuAtfzHgdPC-wILRMc02J_AITi_45gU_y0QFB2Ew0Emhr0uG-BJPWH_SIghgnGOtxCm0FqqtDwev0SnzANuo4OcMtPNd50dFEZwT7UWmMw5T4RYMlkGPPMBSYI-5_Cn-XCQ3TCzzyFg/w640-h426/DSC_1553.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPW2s3SnQxSiv6j2TN6EmATBydg3pW84iyJkpgjIzQ1oJCp51BGAku3rdtgKNosRRBY57DYez_uIIrd-LzBETc2yF2puXZr9FxKY7mAgzJzOYFyKS2bOv_m0hGdXJDU0Yr_X0VhnCZwPCIUC_JISOHiD3cqQ21ywFbolr6Fylelhaq2qgRXf4U0CJ7rjM/s6016/DSC_1551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPW2s3SnQxSiv6j2TN6EmATBydg3pW84iyJkpgjIzQ1oJCp51BGAku3rdtgKNosRRBY57DYez_uIIrd-LzBETc2yF2puXZr9FxKY7mAgzJzOYFyKS2bOv_m0hGdXJDU0Yr_X0VhnCZwPCIUC_JISOHiD3cqQ21ywFbolr6Fylelhaq2qgRXf4U0CJ7rjM/w640-h426/DSC_1551.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3v9JFPslgqJ69cIE8OoAnKtb9bHyNbN8m_xOm9_VrX0JQF51zQei2AaJd9k9wG6flGzcMJOX3ia-7SAx6rPS59fqoANZ6feAIlvK93ipSgNIe0S5Jxhkz-R8pExj4PTCl2V9-JvVSOgM7ASYGTSv68bIEiA8XZfWbHcTE1H0PLoxQOoA65-bryb3LV7M/s4912/DSC_1549.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3279" data-original-width="4912" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3v9JFPslgqJ69cIE8OoAnKtb9bHyNbN8m_xOm9_VrX0JQF51zQei2AaJd9k9wG6flGzcMJOX3ia-7SAx6rPS59fqoANZ6feAIlvK93ipSgNIe0S5Jxhkz-R8pExj4PTCl2V9-JvVSOgM7ASYGTSv68bIEiA8XZfWbHcTE1H0PLoxQOoA65-bryb3LV7M/s320/DSC_1549.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />No doubt Bilbo is taking a break while the noise of construction is going on. Bag End still looks good from the outside but the pipe is a recent addition. it is nice to see an enterprise actually improving the experience for its customers instead of resting on their laurels.<br /><p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhglP2KLiCZkMXxW1nj0jxh3B1zX8ILVqcREQQ7aPuvBKKtGwlrhCtNrMBsMffKigU5OXMz6i-aMrZeUs8FVeIhJ_brGd1OpFunFX9znmCHw5Bf3SY3_d9I_k92FmLR6FJ6RSQUhjC50TexjfEGmL1kdBu6beCPGe9B2SYSPHaoD6KyhJMWIAD9l4Z3x7M/s4481/DSC_1555.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3246" data-original-width="4481" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhglP2KLiCZkMXxW1nj0jxh3B1zX8ILVqcREQQ7aPuvBKKtGwlrhCtNrMBsMffKigU5OXMz6i-aMrZeUs8FVeIhJ_brGd1OpFunFX9znmCHw5Bf3SY3_d9I_k92FmLR6FJ6RSQUhjC50TexjfEGmL1kdBu6beCPGe9B2SYSPHaoD6KyhJMWIAD9l4Z3x7M/s320/DSC_1555.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>Here are artists's impressions of what the extended hobbit holes should look like completed.</p><p><br /></p><p>For official news on this go to</p><p><a href="https://www.hobbitontours.com/bagshot/" target="_blank">https://www.hobbitontours.com/bagshot/ </a></p><p> </p><p> <br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgozFPpK0yHX4bi19-c5o9pPyNf1u7T9iyoGrufAE__Pr1hvo0ITMRBQhIzAZv5NxZodmZz0fPKGUchVPxW72rNXFPVBgEY7okejd_IZsxMc3J7eYGxKsaKa8U10aa1eMcg6HGQsSkJWMgGsH7c8FQJQxPfTvrGeJTdmkOGrpl6rvDDu_OYLJmQ_lfsdd4/s1181/bagshot-row-sketch-02small.GBQWrw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="836" data-original-width="1181" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgozFPpK0yHX4bi19-c5o9pPyNf1u7T9iyoGrufAE__Pr1hvo0ITMRBQhIzAZv5NxZodmZz0fPKGUchVPxW72rNXFPVBgEY7okejd_IZsxMc3J7eYGxKsaKa8U10aa1eMcg6HGQsSkJWMgGsH7c8FQJQxPfTvrGeJTdmkOGrpl6rvDDu_OYLJmQ_lfsdd4/w640-h454/bagshot-row-sketch-02small.GBQWrw.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj00Jfd7zfXp3QB9HAeDrYnPy8r5RgAqH156hSmFvSUBpOYnbMUY-e6CVPUoABla7EcSxRpWCQSUGvoBltuxlizyGX140fe6NVv_9nppKLyoa7jL5M2AEMteVoZylWQqvtiEzfPO70C5Cdov74D88DvCa8voBeGrZw7Y1TIUdxODlcnx6T7EHF2LHonaQY/s1181/bagshot-row-sketch-11-kitchen-window-2small.GBQWsA.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="767" data-original-width="1181" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj00Jfd7zfXp3QB9HAeDrYnPy8r5RgAqH156hSmFvSUBpOYnbMUY-e6CVPUoABla7EcSxRpWCQSUGvoBltuxlizyGX140fe6NVv_9nppKLyoa7jL5M2AEMteVoZylWQqvtiEzfPO70C5Cdov74D88DvCa8voBeGrZw7Y1TIUdxODlcnx6T7EHF2LHonaQY/w640-h416/bagshot-row-sketch-11-kitchen-window-2small.GBQWsA.jpg" width="640" /></a> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> <br /></p><p><br /><br /> <br /></p>Frances Lawsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08107995840713193160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5507816931969163563.post-16396580718125796032023-10-13T14:04:00.002-07:002023-10-13T14:14:27.665-07:00Don't call it FrenchFest<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlAnvvWiTIN48BhDukvz0sDkriUTzDWNOWXKYUHlUlWwa4a_9N7wR3IuuC-fzCGZo4a5_wKb86IsaAYEYJrNKQQo2x0IVdcTOGGVwcvAaT9nCdobjmAxWHj0eN0XKXRxTNVC2TT3lBen4wg3yPT1mdrQxsEysxvtymy0pGXewPlHwngzBc0uNOGH-ntM0/s4608/Frances%203.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="4608" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlAnvvWiTIN48BhDukvz0sDkriUTzDWNOWXKYUHlUlWwa4a_9N7wR3IuuC-fzCGZo4a5_wKb86IsaAYEYJrNKQQo2x0IVdcTOGGVwcvAaT9nCdobjmAxWHj0eN0XKXRxTNVC2TT3lBen4wg3yPT1mdrQxsEysxvtymy0pGXewPlHwngzBc0uNOGH-ntM0/w400-h300/Frances%203.JPG" width="400" /></a>Let's set the context: I'm a direct descendant of two of the original French settlers who arrived at Akaroa in 1840. Joseph and Magdeleine Libeau were professional gardeners from the area south of Nantes, France. They left Rochefort, France on the boat le Compte de Paris only to find they had arrived in a country now declared British. Despite what must have been an enormous shock and disappointment, they persevered through great deprivations and hardships, cleared the land for market gardening, vines, dairy farming, brickworks etc and prospered by their own hard work.</p><p>Naturally Akaroa holds an important place in my heart and in the personal histories of all the descendants of the French and German settlers who disembarked from the boat. For thirteen years The Libeau Descendants Society and the Comte de Paris Descendants Society re-enacted the landing on the beach at Akaroa to the delight of locals and tourists. It was simply and honestly done but success grew the event to where they needed help and that appears to have been our downfall.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJd1TApo3QPuuV4NJQO5se0Wx3_zXZ4U5bNKmvlSU9lMWt-aPeRlLSAQfJQy7UcVAYfshW_pHtR-2krlbUOsfxYuzW6SUA6rUNwSK5fuEg5cadQ6Fj-N0o1t31UXGz00QPqtkTAM108dVQljH4TBEhMlRafwAj3EQfh52L7JEMeccfANkzvxcuQQN5sFY/s4725/DSC_1380.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4725" data-original-width="2862" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJd1TApo3QPuuV4NJQO5se0Wx3_zXZ4U5bNKmvlSU9lMWt-aPeRlLSAQfJQy7UcVAYfshW_pHtR-2krlbUOsfxYuzW6SUA6rUNwSK5fuEg5cadQ6Fj-N0o1t31UXGz00QPqtkTAM108dVQljH4TBEhMlRafwAj3EQfh52L7JEMeccfANkzvxcuQQN5sFY/w242-h400/DSC_1380.JPG" width="242" /></a>These days it is called FrenchFest but on any other weekend you'd be hard-pressed to find much that was genuinely French about the place. It has become a charicature and a nice financial vehicle for certain festival organisers. Akaroa itself has a great little museum but there isn't that much there from the French and German settlers, there are less than a handful of French people living there, the shops don't bother to greet you with a <i>Bonjour</i>, the products have little of a French theme. I guess it is still a unique place and we descendants are very proud of our ancesters who were poor, mostly illiterate but hard-working people brave enough to launch themselves into an adventure 18,000 kms away. For most it was a one-way trip into the wilderness<br />.</p><p>The re-enactment has been hijacked by 'Hollywood' types who care little for authenticity but prefer cheap shots, obscenities and woke pandering to certain groups. Ego reigns supreme. Actors from Auckland are flown in to perform stupidities in a bloated script. Rehearsals are held for weeks in Akaroa, effectively excluding most descendants from participating except as finale decoration. The script is 54 pages long. The French settlers arrive on page 53. </p><p>But hey, let's have sexual inuendo between Captain Cook and Joseph Banks, references to cellphones, pest-control characters in green Steve Irwin outfits, deliberately stupid references to sperm (laughed by reference to sperm whales), a Maori 'entrepreneur' selling multiple maps of Banks Peninsula (since when did Maori have paper-making technology?), totally unnecessary musical interludes, a camp male Queen Victoria. This appalling script is presented to families expecting to hear history. I was told many folks left after an hour, disgusted at the amount of obscenities used. In the end the duration of the play was 2 hours in freezing weather. When the descendants used to do it the duration was around 40 minutes.<br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOAGkeVJnqI6V94bkokbKOyC2V_qqp4YDNH-ddcAogLbeZp4BY4ggR00M-zPrBP3sqgJf23hqd1F_fXrNtrjzHzheHo6Zt5fxogQrsQioNQd9BcX-HbaPayR7HIqzODJ7CWysddYaO-CTbxskn-OqYhgXecxeztUeylTecCTJ3k4XrNrK9-VsvytQrkNs/s4975/DSC_1387.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4975" data-original-width="3512" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOAGkeVJnqI6V94bkokbKOyC2V_qqp4YDNH-ddcAogLbeZp4BY4ggR00M-zPrBP3sqgJf23hqd1F_fXrNtrjzHzheHo6Zt5fxogQrsQioNQd9BcX-HbaPayR7HIqzODJ7CWysddYaO-CTbxskn-OqYhgXecxeztUeylTecCTJ3k4XrNrK9-VsvytQrkNs/w283-h400/DSC_1387.JPG" width="283" /></a>The script is audibly insulting to Maori (yet Onuku Maori seem to go along with it). I wrote to the organisers requesting that they remove offensive lines from past scripts that were upsetting to Compte de Paris descendants. Nope still there. I had some lines to say but was never given the script before the final rehearsal. Hmm. It was stressful to have to cram an hour before.<br /></p><p>The script describes our French ancestors - "These immigrants are all of the lowest order. I had to go around the pubs and taverns of Rochefort..... men and women reluctantly agree to the adventure."</p><p>In fact the venture was scarcely advertised because the French were scared of tipping off the British to the departure of the boat of colonists. The emigrants knew life was hard in post-Napoleonic France - crops failing due to phylloxera, high infant mortality and so they bravely sought to better themselves in a country none of them understood. The settlement was a hard-sell because information had to be kept secret and no-one knew anything about the bottom end of the planet. </p><p>During the Landings play on the beach on the Saturday of FrenchFest there were instances of actors used in place of settler descendants where the real descendant got just one word to say "just" and that person even lives in Akaroa. Do we feel sidelined? Hurt? Disrespected? Hell yes!</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqPanwstrhq-0ndYAPfbrd34FaZ8JUejNsctJc1yNVmm0bNzz8PXI_ImvHFS_8r2u4Ozis3Hfr_hFf7ui1KQlJVB3cC9F93Tox-VflEwoIk6C5JCsZzMqDZJV-08_P2tndeyeCCdebLrEI9bc0QO8ItMkn8J3fORL3_chEC96GRnT_VklDnWgO4djM8jI/s4608/Frances%20and%20Laura%201.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="4608" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqPanwstrhq-0ndYAPfbrd34FaZ8JUejNsctJc1yNVmm0bNzz8PXI_ImvHFS_8r2u4Ozis3Hfr_hFf7ui1KQlJVB3cC9F93Tox-VflEwoIk6C5JCsZzMqDZJV-08_P2tndeyeCCdebLrEI9bc0QO8ItMkn8J3fORL3_chEC96GRnT_VklDnWgO4djM8jI/w400-h300/Frances%20and%20Laura%201.JPG" width="400" /></a>For the second time in a row I was obliged to wear a truly laughable costume. Despite sending my measurements to organisers the jacket didn't fit though I suppose it was an improvement on the blanket around my shoulders in 2019. I told the costume person that I was 'now known as the torn blanket wrapped around her head woman. What have you got for me this year?' Hey, a cut off strip of old cardigan, complete with half a pocket, to wrap around my head. I told her my ancestor would have had a bonnet. She disagreed and said they would have been too dirty and too poor to have had a bonnet. My daughter was obliged to wear an old fur coat turned inside out. It literally fell apart before her eyes but she was told that made it more authentic and the arrivals would have been very scruffy. She just makes it up on the fly. The whole thing is degrading but you can't argue against the force of personality of this woman and her husband, who has no respect for true history, respect for the characters and no talent at all in writing a script. </p><p>I listened to the despairing comments of fellow descendants who knew more about the hijacking of Akaroa than I did, over the weekend. They are not heard. They have literally been shouted down. No wonder they no longer want to be involved in the re-enactment which is now a farce.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL4Oc4sxUgyOS8-LUqi1tu9RLLW2grXrRGvGJqvycGTymz4skpz7CwwRSKtT1upJEmNzpAjcCY3MZ_z70ct4ipy1atKKzXW66h_P5DlrU9SZ-FlTwr9AdNL-q8WfPRleTkoeo1ViaC0mWQXJmTP_V5T8rLFuZxp_xaWrE_N6wYe0kx68o6dnAbaixbNks/s5492/DSC_1404.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="5492" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL4Oc4sxUgyOS8-LUqi1tu9RLLW2grXrRGvGJqvycGTymz4skpz7CwwRSKtT1upJEmNzpAjcCY3MZ_z70ct4ipy1atKKzXW66h_P5DlrU9SZ-FlTwr9AdNL-q8WfPRleTkoeo1ViaC0mWQXJmTP_V5T8rLFuZxp_xaWrE_N6wYe0kx68o6dnAbaixbNks/w400-h291/DSC_1404.JPG" width="400" /></a>I would rather they called the event AkaroaFest, not FrenchFest as there is no respect for history and the French theme is mostly pseudo. The French character of Akaroa is dying under a thousand cuts. The Saturday evening cabaret cost $79 per person with no food included and I have read several negative comments on Facebook about the lack of Frenchness and the disorganisation. I couldn't afford to go. Such events are now priced out of many people's pockets.<br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkinsT-C93tCzr_syqoGo4ovgD1edsdH8EiaigYnGQNgtTLOWo5ZWeSdXfcpsI3GiNn0Sw-Wyuu3d0IVFUwEmZsI2HYaMIMxY9-WjKfVpVAuMWss4b0A5Ia04qx-FhBRGPgDV_Jr2uCk4lMvCPPY1ilosj5S_hddcZjKoQzmxHygx6VWJoyhWE9MPNQNI/s4031/DSC_1416.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3726" data-original-width="4031" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkinsT-C93tCzr_syqoGo4ovgD1edsdH8EiaigYnGQNgtTLOWo5ZWeSdXfcpsI3GiNn0Sw-Wyuu3d0IVFUwEmZsI2HYaMIMxY9-WjKfVpVAuMWss4b0A5Ia04qx-FhBRGPgDV_Jr2uCk4lMvCPPY1ilosj5S_hddcZjKoQzmxHygx6VWJoyhWE9MPNQNI/w400-h370/DSC_1416.JPG" width="400" /></a>I made an effort to attend the Brocante on the Sunday morning. This is a French tradition whereby old stuff, occasionally antiques, is put up for sale. I came away with a little piece of French history which seems authentic. An old plate illustrated with King Louis-Philippe. He was the last king of France and who signed the agreement to send my ancestors to establish a French colony in the South Island of NZ. </p><p>Few people would have appreciated the significance of that plate (or it wouldn't have been up for sale for $20) particularly over FrenchFest weekend but it's safe with me. I was pleased to meet the French Ambassador but there was no time to chat.<br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJkim-SN0q85wYis5j6K5dLwZmk7FdTvjPgZDmHzJiLbeV_v5_G_X89rsSccg3BKYNozmKYb_8Z-wmhXLh4IefiA-wcQJpnrPzRINku-tvnfUdg-mMhra_ubLtz2LcOw7jqScIRcejIuUMnaCjHiijzjMNv_pVJKEb1Swc-LT-ZcUuWd_zxzXjxMqCEw/s3831/DSC_1393.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3104" data-original-width="3831" height="324" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJkim-SN0q85wYis5j6K5dLwZmk7FdTvjPgZDmHzJiLbeV_v5_G_X89rsSccg3BKYNozmKYb_8Z-wmhXLh4IefiA-wcQJpnrPzRINku-tvnfUdg-mMhra_ubLtz2LcOw7jqScIRcejIuUMnaCjHiijzjMNv_pVJKEb1Swc-LT-ZcUuWd_zxzXjxMqCEw/w400-h324/DSC_1393.JPG" width="400" /></a>In short, there is little that is French now about Akaroa except the cultural appropriation required for FrenchFest. The play on the beach is insulting and hurtful and just a huge ego trip for the two people organising it. If I ever travel to Akaroa to attend FrenchFest in future I shall wear a more authentic style costume but I will not take part in the farce on the beach. <br /></p><p>I would like to thank Black Cat Cruises for giving some of the descendants who came to Akaroa for the weekend a free 30 min cruise around the harbour. <b>Someone appreciated us.</b></p><p><i>Photos show</i>: On the beach, on the beach wth my daughter Laura, on the beach with Gaetan acting as my husband, Laura and I making the most of the adventure, the recreation ground, Laura with Steve Lelievre (another descendant) after our cruise around the harbour, British flag flying at the Britomart monument at Green Point.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh25ZTDytnfmoKBY_S_Crx1ck8evtiDVX5rJ9hpIM7w4BxVENNRamfKHSqszmlNQiClZiwudVM9ZfM9IHPulwhdw1fLOmmVIjXTnvzOVTcbqyhyphenhyphenuWNL4wYFTDaDVi33aFa7eJUraMMnejo3jXB3RHUHdLz0t56WjIuTtbjIQCf8050JMidEX1gyQjafKug/s4947/DSC_1400.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4947" data-original-width="3857" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh25ZTDytnfmoKBY_S_Crx1ck8evtiDVX5rJ9hpIM7w4BxVENNRamfKHSqszmlNQiClZiwudVM9ZfM9IHPulwhdw1fLOmmVIjXTnvzOVTcbqyhyphenhyphenuWNL4wYFTDaDVi33aFa7eJUraMMnejo3jXB3RHUHdLz0t56WjIuTtbjIQCf8050JMidEX1gyQjafKug/w498-h640/DSC_1400.JPG" width="498" /></a></div><p></p>Frances Lawsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08107995840713193160noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5507816931969163563.post-14350623082741138562023-09-20T22:08:00.000-07:002023-09-20T22:08:09.637-07:00Danger of irresponsible amateurs<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1KbRzCNGON-NDE5dEurghMAa5ynTOqBcJP-tI6qezwU7Xeg0lv6zXt6Wvlr2w3cQayR4rTsb8HWDg-30mxWqNTF3uPLoH8Z-j0_mqIaSr54emz2i6Ctz2NeE8U431BdFKqZ8zOUkzCWuMga3zi7uWTz9UGtiplL4wDKOeRIgk9h--27XEpiPs0RFj7oA/s225/images1.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1KbRzCNGON-NDE5dEurghMAa5ynTOqBcJP-tI6qezwU7Xeg0lv6zXt6Wvlr2w3cQayR4rTsb8HWDg-30mxWqNTF3uPLoH8Z-j0_mqIaSr54emz2i6Ctz2NeE8U431BdFKqZ8zOUkzCWuMga3zi7uWTz9UGtiplL4wDKOeRIgk9h--27XEpiPs0RFj7oA/w400-h400/images1.jpg" width="400" /></a> For months I have been suffering significant consequences from a session with an egotistical masseuse. I bitterly regret ever having met the woman but I wasn't to know massage could end so badly at the hands of someone so full of themselves.</p><p>It started well enough with a voucher for a massage from a kind friend who also used this woman's services. I therefore started from a position of trust. All went well the first time though there was one odd part to the visit which I will relate because there is considerable misinformation on the 'benefits' out there.</p><p>It started with an ionic foot bath detox. That was new to me and with some past medical training I couldn't for the life of me work out how it could anatomically work. You put your feet in a basin of water that has electrodes in it connected to a machine that controls a current. Salt is added to the water and you wait 30 minutes for toxins to be eliminated through pores in your feet? During that time the water starts to change to a brown/yellow colour and then some scum appears with dark bits. Hmm... that's interesting. </p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_jzwgt335z9l256pEw602DMkm1pkADMYAtfPd-2jm39Tu4L-U0jGhV-roc4jlXajY2WBu4cVUdrxvECNYdnKHE46soGXE0j0O7NepGRGAG9WUGZtRCm5IJ8fPDOEMUmCgCQfrHynJz_6qJ0dBKwxEuOEewst_nMCtCwWkl1N518FAfojfJEGNegdUKtg/s1000/IonicFootDetoxColorChart.webp" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="766" data-original-width="1000" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_jzwgt335z9l256pEw602DMkm1pkADMYAtfPd-2jm39Tu4L-U0jGhV-roc4jlXajY2WBu4cVUdrxvECNYdnKHE46soGXE0j0O7NepGRGAG9WUGZtRCm5IJ8fPDOEMUmCgCQfrHynJz_6qJ0dBKwxEuOEewst_nMCtCwWkl1N518FAfojfJEGNegdUKtg/w400-h306/IonicFootDetoxColorChart.webp" width="400" /></a>I was informed that each colour that appears means a particular toxin has been eliminated from my body ie heavy metals etc. There was a brochure beside me, I read it and asked how exactly it worked. "I have no idea. I don't really understand those things," she said. So she's doing stuff she doesn't understand to another human being. I wasn't convinced so did some internet research. In amongst all the well-being/spa bumph I found results of such equipment tests. Yep. Bullshit. The colour comes from the rust on the electrodes which degrade over time.</p><p>However, no harm done. The next couple of massages, though sometimes painful did no harm and may have done a small amount of good. Then she went away on a retreat to learn lomi lomi massage. When next I saw her she wasn't interested in doing the usual massage. She insisted on doing this new one."You might find this quite sensual", she said. Well no. She was digging her elbow into me while climbing onto my back. She performed a very 'pointed' deep massage on my intestines, following them around. She then decided to do a chest massage. "I won't be too hard", she assured me as it is obvious I have had open heart surgery. Well it was rather heavy and I was so glad when she stopped.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv3H3YHOrZ8umteniwuFNp--NP3R-2wbA0kUaMzZ1mcM0eii9FZUspwJt_uy6q0T8jpwYpjCdHAAJIm7CsyUamTe3Q3HtKonBQkk1e0GRwuaIWEDR4Lxhb2I2vfprdZ_jYoFAnz7SHNLOBu1lUd_h4wGS40PFqvYTOqmDn9Oggn14vhxNFy4nHWWRBW4E/s300/en3563815.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv3H3YHOrZ8umteniwuFNp--NP3R-2wbA0kUaMzZ1mcM0eii9FZUspwJt_uy6q0T8jpwYpjCdHAAJIm7CsyUamTe3Q3HtKonBQkk1e0GRwuaIWEDR4Lxhb2I2vfprdZ_jYoFAnz7SHNLOBu1lUd_h4wGS40PFqvYTOqmDn9Oggn14vhxNFy4nHWWRBW4E/w400-h400/en3563815.jpg" width="400" /></a>Lying on my back I found my knees bent up and being rotated in extreme rotations while she leaned on them. It wasn't massage, it was more physiotherapy. I am not young and was desperately hoping nothing would go wrong. At the time I thought I had gotten away with it but there was nothing healthy or sensual about any of it. I told her I found the massage painful and not at all sensual.<br /></p><p>Two hours later the consequences started to arrive. The leger lists those, some have been suffered for 5 months and cost both me and taxpayers a lot of money.</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Significant bowel infection/diverticulitis</li><li>Chronic sternal pain from open heart surgery wires where previously there had been no pain</li><li>Increased back pain</li><li>No improvement with shoulder pain <br /></li><li>Hip problems whereas I had never had so much as a twinge from them -Diminutive anterosuperior labrum with tearing extending into fraying of the superior labrum with adjacent synovitis.</li><li>Possible mild hip tendinosis straight head rectus femoris.</li><li>mild hip trochanteric bursal oedema/ bursitis</li><li>Likely chronic hip ischiofemoral impingement</li></ul> I expect to have to have hip steroid infiltrations in future.<br /><div><p></p><p>This person has no official massage qualifications nor has she physiotherapy qualifications to my knowledge. She is, I believe, not registered with any professional organisation but has run a successful business doing massage and also yoga classes etc On the surface it all looks good. Good until things go badly wrong and you notice trendy bullshit scams in evidence. She has no medical knowledge at all and seems not to understand consequences for doing certain things because she sees the skin and not the problems that may exist underneath.<br /></p><p>I sent her an email to let her know what had happened and asked her to go back to previous forms of massage. She wrote back and said she had cancelled all my future appoinments and not to come back. No real remorse at all. She washed her hands of me. This made me feel worse.<br /></p><p>Both my GP and the initial physiotherapist asked me if I would like to lodge an official complaint. To Whom? I asked, there is no governing body for the unregistered. This has cost me a lot of money and nearly 5 months of multiple sources of pain. I nearly ended up in A & E.<br /></p><p>ACC does not pay GP costs, nor all imaging costs nor all physiotherapy costs. It does pay a fair bit of specialist costs, thank goodness. I am still in a lot of pain with ongoing treatment. I may also need to get the stainless steel wires around my sternum removed to eliminate pain I hadn't had from them previously.</p><p></p><p>It is worth noting that I was having regular massages in Auckland between 2000 and 2010. I never had any problems. In fact massages worked really well in tandem with the professional belly-dancing I was doing much of that time. This amateur masseuse had gone on a retreat to learn lomi lomi massage supposedly originating from Hawaii but in my opinion what she was doing was not reasonable massage.</p><p>She had never asked me to fill out a questionnaire on past and current health issues, as a professional would. Just looking at someone's body exterior is not a responsible healthcare strategy. <br /></p><p><span class="ILfuVd" lang="en"><span class="hgKElc">FYI: Hawaiian, 'lomi lomi' translates to 'rub rub' - and this is exactly what a lomi lomi massage involves. <b>Using
long, deep strokes, the massage therapist will use their hands and
forearms to relax your muscles and promote blood circulation throughout
your body</b>.</span></span><span class="ILfuVd" lang="en"><span class="hgKElc">Overall, Lomi Lomi
Hawaiian massage is more passive and relaxed than Thai massage and more general than Reiki; it involves calming smooth
therapeutic touching with gentle pressure. </span></span></p><a href="https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/foot-detox">https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/foot-detox</a><p> </p></div>Frances Lawsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08107995840713193160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5507816931969163563.post-30170927048123049722023-08-01T19:01:00.006-07:002023-08-01T19:05:19.214-07:00Life finds a way<p> </p><p><span class="ILfuVd" lang="en"><span class="hgKElc"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="ILfuVd" lang="en"><span class="hgKElc"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7LjHJbKvCMrfvigcMS0EaSWB4MA8cBDdJ30cDWI7pqAkVkBzdv7HyAePJUv9a3qR3BrYGn2xWDsqLgVy5JWhe1SeehFLPUMEiHsxoaKLb0_jSI-bvQFdHMAbq8JVicQxgZ7sfbDWTTzcUnt7GlsEamCWEzn-l7tV56dZkFcmx54Xevxwm4rS5D4g9of8/s1500/heart-910439350-5bc325fa46e0fb0026709242.webp" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="938" data-original-width="1500" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7LjHJbKvCMrfvigcMS0EaSWB4MA8cBDdJ30cDWI7pqAkVkBzdv7HyAePJUv9a3qR3BrYGn2xWDsqLgVy5JWhe1SeehFLPUMEiHsxoaKLb0_jSI-bvQFdHMAbq8JVicQxgZ7sfbDWTTzcUnt7GlsEamCWEzn-l7tV56dZkFcmx54Xevxwm4rS5D4g9of8/w400-h250/heart-910439350-5bc325fa46e0fb0026709242.webp" width="400" /></a></span></span></div><span class="ILfuVd" lang="en"><span class="hgKElc">I have now been officially discharged from cardiac clinic followup to my open heart surgeries. The cardiologist told me he doesn't need to see me until I turn 75 years old. I was stunned. </span></span><p></p><p><span class="ILfuVd" lang="en"><span class="hgKElc">It turns out that my last echocardiogram had shown that my heart has remodelled itself back to how it should have been. With my new tissue valve in my heart, my heart has healed istself to become normal, perhaps for the first time in my life. Physical changes in my left ventricle which had occured due to my heart working much too hard to make up for my leaking mitral valve have reversed back to normal. My ejection fraction (measurement of heart efficiency) is now excellent. My blood pressure is well controlled. As a bonus my cardiologist told me I could come off my blood pressure meds as they would have been next to pointless given my good condition. He agreed that I was a success story. My careful lifestyle has really paid off for me. What had been a perilous time during and after two heart surgeries last year and several unpleasant later events, with careful medication and a healthy lifestyle I've healed myself.</span></span></p><p><span class="ILfuVd" lang="en"><span class="hgKElc">As the cardiologist had agreed to take me off blood pressure meds I asked about the aspirin. I explained that there is now discussion amongst health professionals overseas suggesting that life-long aspirin medication may not have any measurable positive effects. What did he think about that? Yes, he agreed that was new thinking and in my case I could decide if I wanted to take a medicine that may have no positive effect on me at all. Taking aspirin doesn't give any bad effects other than bleeding prolongation if the patient has any surgery, accidents, bruising. I told the cardiologist that, given my age, it would be simpler to eliminate anything that could be detrimental in future interventions. He was comfortable with that. Woo hoo! No heart meds at all now. </span></span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVwaeRJ0n7cOvVTkWXEk_JqGBYCUlcuET5qmc8qjVhHGsbw3Ny2Tzv0Tjokz_Xgi7TVbr6ZhZ2BMBmqgOS1gkJ1HepjPmtEARuKX2-RaIc3_qDMDJHGBfR4SOcJbKJo4Ar63WfBE91luuHKIsTMz-hADzpJyguIrsypAe2Fje99xkGfTVwdOrqb4c4dMw/s1280/19ff3.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="802" data-original-width="1280" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVwaeRJ0n7cOvVTkWXEk_JqGBYCUlcuET5qmc8qjVhHGsbw3Ny2Tzv0Tjokz_Xgi7TVbr6ZhZ2BMBmqgOS1gkJ1HepjPmtEARuKX2-RaIc3_qDMDJHGBfR4SOcJbKJo4Ar63WfBE91luuHKIsTMz-hADzpJyguIrsypAe2Fje99xkGfTVwdOrqb4c4dMw/w640-h402/19ff3.jpg" width="640" /></a><span class="ILfuVd" lang="en"><span class="hgKElc"> </span></span></p><p><span class="ILfuVd" lang="en"><span class="hgKElc">I had chosen a tissue valve for my replacement heart mitral valve rather than a mechanical one as I did not want to be chained to Warfarin for the rest of my life because that would have neccessitated life-long blood testing, possibly diet control and risks of bleeding in accidents, or surgeries (occurances more likely as one gets older). I wanted to live my life as naturally as possible and I have now succeeded in that 100% where my heart is concerned. Plucky little heart - I felt immense gratitude and I also thanked the medical personnel who had helped and listened to me. In the back of my mind I also thanked myself for sticking to my guns against unnecessary medications and doctors who had not listened (which have caused issues in the past).</span></span></p><p><span class="ILfuVd" lang="en"><span class="hgKElc">I'd like to explain what and how this awesome turn of condition happened through <b>reverse</b> cardiac remodelling.<br /><br />Cardiac remodeling
can be described as a physiologic and pathologic condition that may
occur after myocardial infarction (MI), pressure overload (aortic
stenosis, hypertension), inflammatory heart muscle disease
(myocarditis), idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy or volume overload
(valvular regurgitation ). I had the latter condition where my valve never closed properly and so much of the blood it pumped from the left atrium to the left ventrical flowed back to the atrium. It made me very tired with reduced exercise tolerance, palpitations and eventually important shortness of breath.<br /></span></span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcl-2tqZnLuFZZFlOsJJI6NktZyL6c8wDopD024hgJFCY2A-KCLd_i7gvPY86lNVjgripVCuT2AcJmbj7Br8X6qOC_ef1XL1FDjxfv2d0o19xAsJTKzeejU1cXYEbz6IGf6Rzib3CmWzgo-fuCxHRjItMouUe_j1uCAaO9kOpj6X9dav_gjEwA36sJv0w/s305/what-is-mitral-regurgitation.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="224" data-original-width="305" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcl-2tqZnLuFZZFlOsJJI6NktZyL6c8wDopD024hgJFCY2A-KCLd_i7gvPY86lNVjgripVCuT2AcJmbj7Br8X6qOC_ef1XL1FDjxfv2d0o19xAsJTKzeejU1cXYEbz6IGf6Rzib3CmWzgo-fuCxHRjItMouUe_j1uCAaO9kOpj6X9dav_gjEwA36sJv0w/w400-h294/what-is-mitral-regurgitation.png" width="400" /></a></p><p>Cardiac remodeling is a process in which the heart adapts to changing
conditions, with the ultimate goal of maintaining ideal pump function
primarily by altering the tissue, thereby modifying the above parameters<span class="ILfuVd" lang="en"><span class="hgKElc"> </span></span><span class="ILfuVd" lang="en"><span class="hgKElc"> </span></span></p><p><span class="ILfuVd" lang="en"><span class="hgKElc">Cardiac remodeling comprises changes in ventricular volume as well as the thickness and shape of the myocardial wall. <b>With optimised treatment, such remodeling can be reversed</b>, causing gradual improvement in cardiac function and consequently improved prognosis.</span></span></p><p><span class="ILfuVd" lang="en"><span class="hgKElc"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWsg6SaopyOBfCuPNbCPYzEH1qzqWkfa8PVsts6-bEAYZvHs2Xn59HjOXpXGdyIgRpyxYQUiv8sY_nrM1pmoN-3qD1e8W4Zvi9cnbRtThYRjpQsubyGi7hOVF7RuUSDxKBtnlp4KKVtvuwgn3mrTftqmFhakSyQWsYKOfITU9KcsUJ_7VdMnIzMTcgsU8/s843/cardiac-remodeling-new.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="368" data-original-width="843" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWsg6SaopyOBfCuPNbCPYzEH1qzqWkfa8PVsts6-bEAYZvHs2Xn59HjOXpXGdyIgRpyxYQUiv8sY_nrM1pmoN-3qD1e8W4Zvi9cnbRtThYRjpQsubyGi7hOVF7RuUSDxKBtnlp4KKVtvuwgn3mrTftqmFhakSyQWsYKOfITU9KcsUJ_7VdMnIzMTcgsU8/w640-h280/cardiac-remodeling-new.png" width="640" /></a></span></span>Predictors for this improvement were absence of
diabetes, history of hypertension, and treatment with beta-blockers; treatment with
beta-blockers increased the chance of reversal by 3.4 times</p><p><span class="ILfuVd" lang="en"><span class="hgKElc"><b>A number of medical therapies have been shown to promote reverse remodeling</b>
with restoration of a more normal ventricular shape, reduction in Left Ventricular
volumes and mass, as well as an improvement in LV Ejection Fraction. </span></span> ACE inhibitors prevent ventricular dilation and promote small
increases in ejection fraction, but reduction in ventricular diameter and increase in
ejection fraction are more significant with beta-blockers as they lighten the load on the healing heart.<br /></p><p>The drugs used to
treat Heart Failure, particularly beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and ARBs, promote<b> reverse</b>
remodeling. Patients who present<b> reverse</b> remodeling during treatment have better
outcomes and lower mortality than those who do not present it. In my case, I was on a beta-blocker and an ARB. I got off them asap as they create other problems but initially they were important. It is worth noting that while I did have congestive heart failure until recently, I did NOT have clogged arteries and lung problems as a result of an unhealthy lifestyle. So what can we do to minimise heart problems and how can we speed up healing after cardiac surgery?<br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihmCAXiEk-rjl70BDirNZm-nCwSbUhY5KyYywu52BQwI8TgJiS1Qh_fCiiKtZ-AOoOvIBNo2Z2i8aylKbCxBgNGmld5InAh8ygDONWXMa4-wSkJ1L9CxKXD5LmzSFgsNK5ukVnCzSBLwHk4rQdOncotX4Sj-tFAepf4ITpCOztj9EM7RGD7WEdhEtK6OI/s300/31ab4ff4-7295-44c2-85a5-b7ad5703a68e.webp" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="300" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihmCAXiEk-rjl70BDirNZm-nCwSbUhY5KyYywu52BQwI8TgJiS1Qh_fCiiKtZ-AOoOvIBNo2Z2i8aylKbCxBgNGmld5InAh8ygDONWXMa4-wSkJ1L9CxKXD5LmzSFgsNK5ukVnCzSBLwHk4rQdOncotX4Sj-tFAepf4ITpCOztj9EM7RGD7WEdhEtK6OI/s1600/31ab4ff4-7295-44c2-85a5-b7ad5703a68e.webp" width="300" /></a> <b>7 powerful ways you can strengthen your heart</b></p><ol class="X5LH0c"><li class="TrT0Xe">Get moving. Your heart is a muscle and, as with any muscle, exercise is what strengthens it. I walked a lot after my surgeries and I still work out in the hydrotherapy pool at Selwyn Aquatic Centre </li><li class="TrT0Xe">Quit smoking or vaping or better yet - don't start </li><li class="TrT0Xe">Lose weight. Most of the cardiac patients in the wards with me and in waiting rooms were all over-weight and most suffered diabetes as a result - so avoidable<br /></li><li class="TrT0Xe">Eat heart-healthy foods. I grow a lot of my own so my body gets the best range of minerals and vitamins with limited contaminants </li><li class="TrT0Xe">Don't forget the dark chocolate but only in moderation<br /></li><li class="TrT0Xe">Don't stress... easier said than done when negative events cascade</li><li class="TrT0Xe">Eliminate 'toxic' people from your life and only bother with those folks who love you for who you are.</li></ol><p>Am I out of the woods now? I'd like to hope so, at least until my tissue valve needs to be replaced. I might have to have surgery in future to remove the stainless steel wires that were holding my chest together while my sternum grew itself back together as they have become irritable but that's minor compared to the long-term good news I have recently received.</p><p>Take care of your hearts dear Readers and they will take care of YOU!.<br /></p><p><i>Photo credit : https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-cardiac-remodeling-1746198 </i><br /></p><p><span class="ILfuVd" lang="en"><span class="hgKElc"> </span></span><span class="ILfuVd" lang="en"><span class="hgKElc"> </span></span> </p>Frances Lawsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08107995840713193160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5507816931969163563.post-80095338202445103012023-07-02T20:39:00.000-07:002023-07-02T20:39:36.356-07:00Council bullshit continues to grow<p><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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</p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1BzIDXFwEOlUKnGwDgazBoyAX58hWMfVuy-RDSgxzsK2ASArIAKDM-Lcl-uMNNN9utU_BKGhb3x9fScUX-gXtaQmAxciSFtq_U3Ox1Wb3ubek3Ws1IWgX4bFkrT-TQwykaGM_T1IUZCLdLIVpak8eENyGRrf8-aDquW9UET_lqF7ewn_VvgB-BuzeMH8/s4128/20180914_081619.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3096" data-original-width="4128" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1BzIDXFwEOlUKnGwDgazBoyAX58hWMfVuy-RDSgxzsK2ASArIAKDM-Lcl-uMNNN9utU_BKGhb3x9fScUX-gXtaQmAxciSFtq_U3Ox1Wb3ubek3Ws1IWgX4bFkrT-TQwykaGM_T1IUZCLdLIVpak8eENyGRrf8-aDquW9UET_lqF7ewn_VvgB-BuzeMH8/w400-h300/20180914_081619.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>A discarded
copy of The Press lay on a bench seat in a café in Hanmer Springs. The front
page story leaped out at me, given my past career in Communications and PR.<p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">‘Communications
overload’ it announced and was referring to the number of communications staff
at Christchurch City Council and Ecan. I’ve had first-hand experience with both
organisations.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">The article
informed readers that Environment Canterbury has 56.6 full-time positions in its
communications and engagement group. My jaw dropped. It went on to say that
Christchurch City Council has 44 positions. I felt anger that so many such
positions were being paid for by ratepayers and that the work they do is, as
the article suggested, ‘smoke and mirrors’ rather than substance or a service
to their ratepayers. They do not measure how successful they have been so they
cannot be held accountable for lacklustre performance.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">I once worked
on a very short term contract for CCC. I was crushed by a toxic culture where
initiative was punished, innovation was ignored or discouraged. It was all
about image control yet they really had no idea how to make a positive
difference in the communities they are supposed to serve. There are some good
individuals working at each of these organisations but they can’t make a
difference because the system will not allow it. Inertia is boss. On the other hand, you don’t
need so much image control if you are actually doing good stuff honestly. Everything
is naturally in alignment and many ratepayers become supportive if they can
smell ‘authenticity’.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF49dBEuisnyeKPMRDxxslmTKxE3ypOeB7Nx9Onetgt_eU5QF4teZwnduPT2QXusOysXbquXZZL8pn6d3l8iyITPrd5UmGBpzzauD347RIGWivd0TUm3xqAnHhQPVcgi4X_zjSJsBMlt9kjt6f1ij5cXDZjBB3s-b-TK-gKd_zbx2m2LQFqePFUtCHp2Y/s200/Choice.bmp" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF49dBEuisnyeKPMRDxxslmTKxE3ypOeB7Nx9Onetgt_eU5QF4teZwnduPT2QXusOysXbquXZZL8pn6d3l8iyITPrd5UmGBpzzauD347RIGWivd0TUm3xqAnHhQPVcgi4X_zjSJsBMlt9kjt6f1ij5cXDZjBB3s-b-TK-gKd_zbx2m2LQFqePFUtCHp2Y/s1600/Choice.bmp" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">The article
by journalist Keiller MacDuff pointed out that a great way of measuring
effectiveness is the degree of voter turnout, which, at just 36%, is appalling.
In 2018 CCC asked me for a copy of my innovative and effective Waitakere City Council communications
campaign to increase voter turnout in 2007. My campaign was a mixture of tried
and true activities but 60% of my campaign focussed on fresh, innovative ways
to engage with voters and to help new residents to engage in the election
process. I increased voter turnout slightly. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Other, smaller district councils such as
Rotorua and Kapiti asked me if they could use some of my ideas. Everywhere else
turnouts went down. The Minister for Ethnic Affairs wrote a letter to me
congratulating me on my methods and results. The Public Relations Institute conferred
on my campaign and evaluation of it a status of finalist in the annual PR
awards. WCC wanted to use my expertise again with an increased budget but,
sadly, that never happened as WCC and other Auckland councils were destroyed in
the creation of the monstrous Supercity.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs22e3x2HvEFGvTwJyUa9iSedhlw2haal0kmsi4plu-GGUKD5XlMF41j8Jg0lPX-e8cwt2SmnbclkyggjNhWEtYrXJvn-sA4b39qXvqgHGd3M1GaW88JndbYUaQ6cFujQIBtd07qBT0zFSFN-mH7tyeS5p-ZHOYyIqNa9yGAtAEDN4jIxRkKoce4ul_-U/s3072/Ecoday%202009%20(13).JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2304" data-original-width="3072" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs22e3x2HvEFGvTwJyUa9iSedhlw2haal0kmsi4plu-GGUKD5XlMF41j8Jg0lPX-e8cwt2SmnbclkyggjNhWEtYrXJvn-sA4b39qXvqgHGd3M1GaW88JndbYUaQ6cFujQIBtd07qBT0zFSFN-mH7tyeS5p-ZHOYyIqNa9yGAtAEDN4jIxRkKoce4ul_-U/w400-h300/Ecoday%202009%20(13).JPG" width="400" /></a><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">What did
CCC do with the copy of my campaign (my and WCC’s intellectual property) that I
generously (with permission from Auckland Council) gave them? Nothing, clearly!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"> I was actively dissuaded by a
supervisor from attending joint meetings with Ecan on a joint partnership
project even though I had originally been told to participate as a CC reresentative? Ecan representatives were more than happy with my contributions so what was the problem. Was I becoming too 'friendly', effective perhaps? It seemed to me CCC had no intention of cooperating even if it was a legitimate partnership. <br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Let’s put
this communications bloat and accountability in perspective - at Waitakere (a major West Auckland Council before it was dissolved) we had ten
(yes 10 including management) staff on our communications and engagement team.
We had an open and innovative mindset and we were in sync with environmental
principles. New ideas were welcomed. Our ratepayers were often proud of our
efforts and enjoyed getting involved in our projects. How many councils can you
say that about these days. We were NZ’s first and only EcoCity.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1KRcsRmyENAVJ8mX1H6FiEu7HjQhYBbM8S9uhQNeyGjc-WvgeQZsjWiCTfXc2mYdExZ68BcHPmWvjY2YzHY0CJTOtJTyERS_FtcBiAvYoF5nK_8iqxkJtvAOpBWGpK2zkbOdyQB9TSMd8T9Z6HSvPiXU8fsIC8TRX3VSwBvjKBbhpWaF-eQ2y5_irH6I/s1183/EcoWater%20splashhires.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1183" data-original-width="1111" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1KRcsRmyENAVJ8mX1H6FiEu7HjQhYBbM8S9uhQNeyGjc-WvgeQZsjWiCTfXc2mYdExZ68BcHPmWvjY2YzHY0CJTOtJTyERS_FtcBiAvYoF5nK_8iqxkJtvAOpBWGpK2zkbOdyQB9TSMd8T9Z6HSvPiXU8fsIC8TRX3VSwBvjKBbhpWaF-eQ2y5_irH6I/s320/EcoWater%20splashhires.jpg" width="301" /></a><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">I was,
among other things, responsible for encouraging ratepayers to use a lot less
drinking water by changing their behaviour. <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Reduce
water demand by 25% by 2025 despite an increasing population.</i> That’s a big
call but we knew we would not need to spend heaps of money on new water
infrastructure or drown parts of our environment just to create another dam if folks
could understand and change their water behaviours. We supported residents’
efforts in many practical ways such as rebates for raintanks and solar waterheating. We did not dissuade people from doing the right
sustainable things. And it was working. By the end of 2010 we were on track to
meet our goal. And then all that measurable good work was murdered and
Watercare took over everything.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">I shook my
head in dismay and anger to see an article revealing such ridiculous staff
numbers employed to do stuff-all but make all the negative stuff and lack of
advancement invisible. The journalist was right.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">These
bloated teams are apparently necessary to provide information on council
services and events, elections and emergency responses. I call BULLSHIT!! We at
WCC did it all more effectively with 10 staff.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">I am a Three Waters specialist in communications. I have taught at
tertiary level how to put together effective environment campaigns involving
water and energy, to students completing Water Technology degrees at the Universite de Versailles
Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, France.</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"> </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">I was good
at what I did but these days in NZ I am unemployable by any organisation because I get
good things done and help ratepayers feel good about Council and themselves in fresh 'unthinkable' ways. I
have international experience in sustainability and Three Waters but I am not
welcome here. But hey, let’s employ heaps of people with less passion, experience, honesty,
creativity to pour out spin, on their average salaries of $98,000 - $119,000. I earned half that.<br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Wouldn’t
YOU be pissed?</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Photos: a fraction of the extensive workspace for the communications team at CCC, Choice, the spokesperson for my elections campaign, Splash, my spokesperson for Three Waters, Eco Day via WCC stand. <br /></span></p>
<p></p>Frances Lawsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08107995840713193160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5507816931969163563.post-88952818436253725242023-06-03T15:32:00.002-07:002023-06-03T15:32:53.778-07:00Relearning a Maori lost art<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6cf3_5rLjObUHFWCrxSBAHzzVkRlU_8xvD4gJIPoDHshzA4-gbBOcqvdLny5stwzbTnJOAUR1lbYwlvvu5mfxq47CioTpzdmyWTPPBlayyNFLB6jy-iMtFQnFe3qQm7YHEK3EHPADZ1J5LiyGVd9rsfVn9r9i__IDTitaI6G2IrbQ2_2mmU-viBWh/s6016/DSC_1001.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6cf3_5rLjObUHFWCrxSBAHzzVkRlU_8xvD4gJIPoDHshzA4-gbBOcqvdLny5stwzbTnJOAUR1lbYwlvvu5mfxq47CioTpzdmyWTPPBlayyNFLB6jy-iMtFQnFe3qQm7YHEK3EHPADZ1J5LiyGVd9rsfVn9r9i__IDTitaI6G2IrbQ2_2mmU-viBWh/w400-h266/DSC_1001.JPG" width="400" /></a> <span style="font-family: arial;">How did Maori find their way to New Zealand? Theories abound: blown off course? Bunny-hopping from one known island to another island? Relying on ocean currents? Celestial navigation?</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">Whatever the means, the knowledge became lost because Maori had no written language. When knowledge is passed on like Chinese Whispers it loses precision and interest wanes. How could Maori relearn the navigation arts that they had lost? They went to Mau Piailug. </span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5NHz1v_nbt2kPOfykR2XPo1sA1KBfMIXNqEp1XH9Ivjg0KygYMPJxqqHzreM11n2s6mLrXlBhudQQuxk_Ue3U_FcwMTEuhmoRVaF4Y68YhmE1yBqo95IPx2MDtRNw5IVzYh7OqTrkF66FNeAuo0Xv-haJ1R6ZfpoXwNmTfr1uQvQZmBG_9CJho24Q/s6016/DSC_1005.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6016" data-original-width="4000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5NHz1v_nbt2kPOfykR2XPo1sA1KBfMIXNqEp1XH9Ivjg0KygYMPJxqqHzreM11n2s6mLrXlBhudQQuxk_Ue3U_FcwMTEuhmoRVaF4Y68YhmE1yBqo95IPx2MDtRNw5IVzYh7OqTrkF66FNeAuo0Xv-haJ1R6ZfpoXwNmTfr1uQvQZmBG_9CJho24Q/w266-h400/DSC_1005.JPG" width="266" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;"> The Micronesian navigator </span><span style="font-family: arial;">Mau </span><span style="font-family: arial;">Piailug </span><span style="font-family: arial;">(1932-2010) was originally from the Carolinian islands. He learned the traditional navigation techniques, which had been preserved after other traditional techniques had
been forgotten (due partly to the remoteness of the Carolinian
Islands). In the 1970s, Mau shared his knowledge with members of the Polynesian Voyaging Society. This led to a revival of the practices of traditional Polynesian navigation techniques, and provided anthropologists with a greater understanding of the history of the Polynesian and Micronesian peoples.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">The Pacific was the last great region to be explored. It is estimated that migration took place between 3000 BC to 1000 AD. New Zealand may have been the last landfall. Explorers used multi-hulled boats guided by experts in celestial navigation. Those techniques were verbally passed on through the generations. Everything had to be memorised. Among the 'tools' memorised was the star compass.<br /></span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9wyudMr0l3HE-BfBQ43ZPelD2UghxB19JxkNbE2fAWUrv4L7O2v4oMGPuK_DmV04lhvSGrqp7TvTgFKvEdNpzDzJph3MzvZz69Up1Bc7EhyfPveD-XSySjJaMhpX3bIiT_lVote6DcFRD_XuTlEbI7_mfcbVa7cDTImzc709uA156D-aNEPd29UUW/s6016/DSC_1008.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6016" data-original-width="4000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9wyudMr0l3HE-BfBQ43ZPelD2UghxB19JxkNbE2fAWUrv4L7O2v4oMGPuK_DmV04lhvSGrqp7TvTgFKvEdNpzDzJph3MzvZz69Up1Bc7EhyfPveD-XSySjJaMhpX3bIiT_lVote6DcFRD_XuTlEbI7_mfcbVa7cDTImzc709uA156D-aNEPd29UUW/w266-h400/DSC_1008.JPG" width="266" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;">Through constant observation, navigators were able to detect changes in
the speed of their canoes, their heading, and the time of day or night.
Polynesian </span><span style="font-family: arial;">navigators employed a wide range of techniques including
the use of the stars, the movement of ocean currents and wave patterns,
even the patterns of bioluminescence that indicated the direction in which islands were located, the air and sea interference patterns caused by islands and atolls, the flight of birds, the winds and the weather. There is currently no evidence of historic Polynesian navigators using navigational devices on board vessels, such as some Vikings used in the northern hemisphere.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">To see a Star Compass example in New Zealand today you need to visit Napier. There are 32 pou each 3.5m high in a 30 metre circle. They show the rising and setting points of the Sun and Moon, planets and stars as memorised. While daylight with a bright sunny day could help navigators, it was the night sky that gave the most accurate directions. The Compass has a central stone with elaborately carved pou indicating East, North, South and West.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">It's a peaceful spot looking out to sea. For more information on Polynesian navigation go to: <br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"></span><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polynesian_navigation">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polynesian_navigation</a> </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV6py3G6A72YrYzKccit30IC8peDEZ-bEJYKTAQs7SeLdgStoSaZghZqmY6r93QtNIiDafFu7RzgM0NfFaLHAGIojSST1Ry8H5eWWjOC8VW9SeIxIv1LcbECVRZ_Ekpuf-B9nQ7KQrBakGSXSDev-Vem3kvV8Oa1k0rQJjzc5wYuiwW2KSCnDCBZQ-/s6016/DSC_1007.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV6py3G6A72YrYzKccit30IC8peDEZ-bEJYKTAQs7SeLdgStoSaZghZqmY6r93QtNIiDafFu7RzgM0NfFaLHAGIojSST1Ry8H5eWWjOC8VW9SeIxIv1LcbECVRZ_Ekpuf-B9nQ7KQrBakGSXSDev-Vem3kvV8Oa1k0rQJjzc5wYuiwW2KSCnDCBZQ-/w640-h426/DSC_1007.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;"></span><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL-WojRx8HP41mOKlFfooL8W41igW17DvNGW8iWO9lFGURPP9SYdqMTfAA1kYqCWlmWiEBlRp83IMLTyrXSvMUY-YdXxQc8vQwUABIkHSwLHnXQ2bfsadSRVss7NASrW5XOrRv-ytgowi4T_iHYsotYQ8Tc2QWYToS-8ghhuj4zvzp2gOQXKb2Nr-6/s6016/DSC_0998.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6016" data-original-width="4000" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL-WojRx8HP41mOKlFfooL8W41igW17DvNGW8iWO9lFGURPP9SYdqMTfAA1kYqCWlmWiEBlRp83IMLTyrXSvMUY-YdXxQc8vQwUABIkHSwLHnXQ2bfsadSRVss7NASrW5XOrRv-ytgowi4T_iHYsotYQ8Tc2QWYToS-8ghhuj4zvzp2gOQXKb2Nr-6/w426-h640/DSC_0998.JPG" width="426" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;"> <br /></span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><br /> </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span><br /></p><p> </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><br /></div><br /><p><br /></p>Frances Lawsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08107995840713193160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5507816931969163563.post-49014418403705982952023-05-01T20:39:00.006-07:002023-05-01T22:19:39.159-07:00My Grandmother's Hands<p><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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Name="Closing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Message Header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Salutation"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Date"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Block Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Document Map"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Bottom of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="List Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="List Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="List Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="List Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="List Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
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</p><p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU1sAWEgDJq98_GQQrVqdxygQz82hKYf-UKyQo2LabfOwBVbvueNENR1KtDNl2M9RyeC5WGsbSONeWBTjEcW-fOXnWRGVsSfuPWdzgnhz5ZsIG8n5TpdzqHgYQyniohc-kw0Zr2xOgMlH9JISs6lmlFciMdrX33y8alGv8nU8tWD4MwO6gg7N6xvHy/s2772/1957%20With%20Gran.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1812" data-original-width="2772" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU1sAWEgDJq98_GQQrVqdxygQz82hKYf-UKyQo2LabfOwBVbvueNENR1KtDNl2M9RyeC5WGsbSONeWBTjEcW-fOXnWRGVsSfuPWdzgnhz5ZsIG8n5TpdzqHgYQyniohc-kw0Zr2xOgMlH9JISs6lmlFciMdrX33y8alGv8nU8tWD4MwO6gg7N6xvHy/w400-h261/1957%20With%20Gran.jpg" width="400" /></a><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">I looked at
her hands with curiosity and dismay as she crocheted a tea cosy. They seemed so
old and mortal. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">"Gran,
how did your hands get like that?"</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">"Like
what?" she replied.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">"Well,
I can see right through them, all the veins and stuff. They are not like mine,
all smooth and opaque. They look… old and a bit scary."</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">"Well
there's nothing wrong with them and you should mind your own business,"
she snapped. "Just a bit of arthritis, that's all."</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">I really
did want to know how hands like mine became hands like hers. Was it too much
dishwashing, or cleaning, or getting sick, or living past fifty? When did the
process start? Was it fast or slow? I wanted to know what could I do to avoid
looking like that but clearly this adolescent was not going to be able to ask her. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi35qlvinLv9wIAM3tAPkSGlio40UK4R_8GhsMzel1oinyGm2HbILoSvuyAWdaYB6IVrdZDgZZ_qDWQ89BtXUzZkIVb7QJmZPdOpGfmEV2Z_piAacD3Ji5_PQ2jeLK34-4e7onjQz-tF3YSaw1WRkg4fNNk7swEDkxOxyXQLBgJNFv8DYxaszjtWBwg/s1006/Louisa%20McNabb%20knitting%20at%20Akaroa.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="723" data-original-width="1006" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi35qlvinLv9wIAM3tAPkSGlio40UK4R_8GhsMzel1oinyGm2HbILoSvuyAWdaYB6IVrdZDgZZ_qDWQ89BtXUzZkIVb7QJmZPdOpGfmEV2Z_piAacD3Ji5_PQ2jeLK34-4e7onjQz-tF3YSaw1WRkg4fNNk7swEDkxOxyXQLBgJNFv8DYxaszjtWBwg/w400-h288/Louisa%20McNabb%20knitting%20at%20Akaroa.jpg" width="400" /></a><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Those hands
had so much skill, patience, effort, persistence. If hands could see they'd
have seen the change from horses to motor cars, washing coppers to washing
machines, a Singer treadle sewing machine surpassed by Chinese imported
clothing, an old valve radio to a colour television, a draper's to a clothing
store. And those hands had helped me grow up.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZqJyiur4LZPcGIbD3Eei8_o8phtxz6bPocN9ddlhz2KONfU_xsuoJBZOqMNgH5RHVVutpYCoiIykInIOl32KmobA9y3F7bnkAVltYj-vdNORc1Xywtvb6O39BcoO4j0hGesn8PWrLM0kAGJR-A2M4an_BjOGjqQqsepKZmC9d0gRTRD3MQ7l9FvNb/s1024/k00140.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZqJyiur4LZPcGIbD3Eei8_o8phtxz6bPocN9ddlhz2KONfU_xsuoJBZOqMNgH5RHVVutpYCoiIykInIOl32KmobA9y3F7bnkAVltYj-vdNORc1Xywtvb6O39BcoO4j0hGesn8PWrLM0kAGJR-A2M4an_BjOGjqQqsepKZmC9d0gRTRD3MQ7l9FvNb/w400-h300/k00140.jpg" width="400" /></a><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">They were
never hands that patted me on the back, or hugged me. Instead their kindnesses
were demonstrated in showing me how to cook, embroider, sew and knit and
crochet. Gran's scones were miraculous. I never discovered the real secret to
getting scones that light, </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">that right, every time. She said she'd switched from
butter and milk to using cream but when I tried that I ended up with rocks that
didn't go well with jam.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs95eFDMyd-bmqtLBytOybt_ZJ200-eYCRvxy8sRvZBC1YHXbbni2oA8Cz7dfJ-T5qh8k5aWjokasq-eVsL1XkvRz0GemyRIH_Z0sZktpvEjLguTUxoPeT8vBZNjKP-tezb_YF0QaLWHKRfBDevnl0sn2fLnYVI6fEmDIC2IJXdVYfmCDqqY_WGPcF/s1024/k00236.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs95eFDMyd-bmqtLBytOybt_ZJ200-eYCRvxy8sRvZBC1YHXbbni2oA8Cz7dfJ-T5qh8k5aWjokasq-eVsL1XkvRz0GemyRIH_Z0sZktpvEjLguTUxoPeT8vBZNjKP-tezb_YF0QaLWHKRfBDevnl0sn2fLnYVI6fEmDIC2IJXdVYfmCDqqY_WGPcF/s320/k00236.jpg" width="320" /></a><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Those hands
knew how to boil mutton and make a parsley sauce so good even the French might
have enjoyed it. Those festive Christmas puddings were assembled with pride and
boiled to perfection with sixpences hidden inside for us to find. Chocolate instant pudding from a packet was whisked up
and then smothered in whipped cream sprinkled with hundreds and thousands. We
never worried about cholesterol or calories back then. The handmade jams and
pickles and preserves were proudly displayed and used or given away.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">When I was
at Intermediate School I finally got the opportunity to teach Gran something. I
couldn't believe it when she started making my pineapple-apple sausage meat
rollup I'd learned in cooking class. She didn't say it was good. She simply
asked me how it was made, wrote down the recipe and started making it. Silent
praise indeed.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Gran's
hands never stroked me when I was sick but they did bring me cups of tea of a
taste I have never found anywhere since. They also played knuckle bones with
me, over and over and over again, sitting on the carpet in front of the
fireplace in the lounge. Those were the happiest times for me; away from the
threats and sourness of my parents; it was a refuge of strict yet safe moments during
holidays or sometimes Friday nights. When it wasn't knucklebones we were
playing it was cards: Snap or Happy families or sometimes we used a real deck
of cards to play Twenty-One. No-one to yell at me, manipulate me, hit me or
demand I clean something. Just me and my Gran who shared time and conversation.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimmlQKGkatKjkj8m4dY6whPDmJIZYvUkyAS8rKs56_hoLrXPRh_ul40s3qPq_jv2rVs3_sX9k9zJMhFuH2Cgl4Hj4TVgJobllKlsfzt7QlArSKlAQsvc77sBCs8LbjepyPh6x9sd1UBJ5gLXzUvAqy16ky0W9-zyDZEFxWju4CSdl5lMgVJ-Z0WC69/s902/1966%20Frances%20Free%20in%20her%20ballet%20exam%20outfit.%20No.%202.bmp" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="884" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimmlQKGkatKjkj8m4dY6whPDmJIZYvUkyAS8rKs56_hoLrXPRh_ul40s3qPq_jv2rVs3_sX9k9zJMhFuH2Cgl4Hj4TVgJobllKlsfzt7QlArSKlAQsvc77sBCs8LbjepyPh6x9sd1UBJ5gLXzUvAqy16ky0W9-zyDZEFxWju4CSdl5lMgVJ-Z0WC69/s320/1966%20Frances%20Free%20in%20her%20ballet%20exam%20outfit.%20No.%202.bmp" width="314" /></a>The carpet
in front of the fire was also the place her hands taught me how to make crepe
paper roses. I needed garlands of pink roses with green leaves linked with pink
satin ribbon as decoration on my Les Sylphides-style ballet gown for a recital.
We rolled the edges of the leaves and petals on the diagonal with one of her
knitting needles. After some preliminary tries I was allowed to complete each
rose so that Gran could sew them onto the pretty pink ribbon. It looked great.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">It was Gran
who cycled with me to my dance classes and shared the chocolate biscuits she'd
wrapped up for us for the return ride at night. It was Gran who made up
spelling and other word games to pass the time together and encourage my
interest in English. Her school lunches were always devoured to the last crumb,
especially her tomato sandwiches and fruit biscuits.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQJsdvGzMv_mBaMr8vyp_csjbKxxDOfa22aUnvJqt8-BihRwIKBDkddu6oXr-KtL29OFJ5g1Jwp1cNxOOrM5qT5vcO174PQZTzdTGKMZlfAEG_6B3U_0p4td8ahOI6vgYi0sv-8NlaxefuU2SXB8s3qku-UrDIVdq2OtRaYPIiY0yyiK_0XjKaieGU/s6268/Gran%20and%20Laura%201993.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6268" data-original-width="4156" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQJsdvGzMv_mBaMr8vyp_csjbKxxDOfa22aUnvJqt8-BihRwIKBDkddu6oXr-KtL29OFJ5g1Jwp1cNxOOrM5qT5vcO174PQZTzdTGKMZlfAEG_6B3U_0p4td8ahOI6vgYi0sv-8NlaxefuU2SXB8s3qku-UrDIVdq2OtRaYPIiY0yyiK_0XjKaieGU/w265-h400/Gran%20and%20Laura%201993.jpg" width="265" /></a><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">As the
decades passed her hands stopped busying themselves with her handcrafts. She
was going blind but never told me. Whenever I cycled from high school to her
place I'd find her sitting in silence staring out the lounge window at the view
down the street; looking for any visitors, watching cars go by. Her hands now
fussed over each other as if they were twins seeking company, solace. For years
she did this even though she couldn't see more than a hazy blur. She seemed a
forlorn and tragic figure sitting alone for hours like that, especially after
my Grandfather died. She could barely see her only great-granddaughter Laura whom I'd bring on a
rare visit to see her, from the faraway city where I now lived. I treasure the two photos I have of the both of them: greatgrandmother and greatgranddaughter.<br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">One day I
found her gripping the doorway, obviously in great pain. Her hands could no
longer keep pretending there was nothing wrong. They could no longer hide an
illness that made her grab a handkerchief to retch in every time she tried to eat
something. She cried out. I was startled and very worried, but Gran hated anyone to pass
comment on her, to fuss. She was of a generation that never wanted to lose face
or dignity.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">As I walked
to the front door I turned to hug her to say goodbye. She clung to me. She
clung like she had never clung before. Her hands were insistent and needy. She
was giving me a hug or was it me hugging her? There seemed a long, strange,
wordless exchange going on as I reminded her to have her regular medical check-ups
and look after herself. After I got back to my accommodation I phoned my mother
to tell her to check in on Gran and get help but she took no action for a good
24 hours. In the meantime, I flew home and settled back into my daily life
feeling I should have been more assertive on Gran's behalf. A week later I
learned that I would never see or feel those hands again.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghDBU3wnnjXNYIFTc4ahWlgYzH9BXE6uM0J6No1sYMFtd5qHqDXOy76TW17boVb79txLanp6J7UWe484pYCWW2Kj-uCCEj8kU98k37Gxr-MIeQjUftscFDKB4-78pwf9shhkuRPT9_IvrkN9jCUqjH9o0tiKV0wTVlytZFdSc8UHfzS6-4_I_Qg5y_/s14304/1994%20Laura%20and%20Gran.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="14304" data-original-width="9504" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghDBU3wnnjXNYIFTc4ahWlgYzH9BXE6uM0J6No1sYMFtd5qHqDXOy76TW17boVb79txLanp6J7UWe484pYCWW2Kj-uCCEj8kU98k37Gxr-MIeQjUftscFDKB4-78pwf9shhkuRPT9_IvrkN9jCUqjH9o0tiKV0wTVlytZFdSc8UHfzS6-4_I_Qg5y_/w266-h400/1994%20Laura%20and%20Gran.jpg" width="266" /></a><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">I felt many
regrets for not postponing my flight back to my little daughter and instead
sorting things out for Gran myself but she had close family living in the same
city who could have helped. She'd hidden her multiple cancers so well from
those around her. Even her doctor hadn't realised the true nature of her
suffering. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">She's the
best of my childhood and one of the most precious parts of my past. I think I
gave her a link to the modern world she never seemed quite at ease with. Gran
was always interested in my news. In return she gave me a link to an older
world I wished I'd known. In a family where females were less regarded than
males she gave me a haven where I could learn to be me in safety (so long as I didn't have my own opinions) and have one
on one attention from someone who wanted to make that effort for no reason
other than interest in me. What a gift. I still miss her. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">And now my
elderly hands are like her hands; transparent, veiny with age spots and with wrinkled
arthritic bones. I doubt there will be a grandchild who will ask me how my hands got like
that but I do know the answer.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><i>Photos show: Gran and me around 1957, Gran knitting in the Old French Cemetery on L'Aube Hill, Akaroa, Gran with me at my baptism in 1955, Gran and Grandad in retirement, Me in one of my ballet costumes, Gran and Laura - last photos of her 1994 just months before her death.<br /></i></span></p>
<p></p>Frances Lawsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08107995840713193160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5507816931969163563.post-90312600818738340922023-04-08T14:52:00.005-07:002023-04-08T15:03:52.250-07:00Art Deco Napier before Gabrielle<p> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA5NuTlr-GlM-RNYAV0ldlw2XkHiP7PIiiBNgGCzK_Hh74eTcdmRYXkqc7iAciloA81HyXVbu7sIB3Qj-1PEX9t3G5XVYDvRXC9cn28AQ09KSyZlsOqX72mTWq9pWy5PXSZlDW89557q7XCwWNRwM-6XcbVDVsZw7xOTXmxtuhhUkVwhH9HGOKLAQw/s5639/DSC_1023.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3995" data-original-width="5639" height="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA5NuTlr-GlM-RNYAV0ldlw2XkHiP7PIiiBNgGCzK_Hh74eTcdmRYXkqc7iAciloA81HyXVbu7sIB3Qj-1PEX9t3G5XVYDvRXC9cn28AQ09KSyZlsOqX72mTWq9pWy5PXSZlDW89557q7XCwWNRwM-6XcbVDVsZw7xOTXmxtuhhUkVwhH9HGOKLAQw/w400-h284/DSC_1023.JPG" width="400" /></a>I was curious to visit Napier because it is famed for its Art Deco architecture.</p><p>Several towns in New Zealand, including Napier<span style="color: black;"> and Hastings, were rebuilt in Art Deco style after the 1931 Hawke's Bay earthquake. It's an amazing snapshot in time. Many of the buildings have been protected and restored. Napier has been nominated for UNESCO World Hritage Site status, the first cultural site in New Zealand to be nominated</span></p><p>Art Deco took its name, short for <i>arts décoratifs</i>, from the Exposition Internationale des Arts D<a class="mw-redirect" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exposition_Internationale_des_Arts_D%C3%A9coratifs_et_Industriels_Modernes" style="color: black;" title="Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes">é</a>coratifs et Industriels Modernes held in Paris in 1925. New materials and technologies, especially reinforced concrete, were key to the development and appearance of Art Deco.</p><p>At its birth between 1910 and 1914, Art Deco was an explosion of
colours, featuring bright and often clashing hues, frequently in floral
designs, presented in furniture upholstery, carpets, screens, wallpaper and fabrics.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho5Lz-HX8ysW-AnhqEJk1B_qV1FuouKfJLRKi4WnG3s2crgGETA3_YfHShehV2mr6n0pE0mg1HcrfNmG57gBepc1debryKyUF-iEqKwAY1-Si_zt8539Rthvu_-w8znLG77d1vrEFqQ_k9Zbq1jgwUUeRl2xuIwctIdI_TqmmLB70SvV1V2dDKNkDO/s427/Fauteuil_jazzclub.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="403" data-original-width="427" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho5Lz-HX8ysW-AnhqEJk1B_qV1FuouKfJLRKi4WnG3s2crgGETA3_YfHShehV2mr6n0pE0mg1HcrfNmG57gBepc1debryKyUF-iEqKwAY1-Si_zt8539Rthvu_-w8znLG77d1vrEFqQ_k9Zbq1jgwUUeRl2xuIwctIdI_TqmmLB70SvV1V2dDKNkDO/s320/Fauteuil_jazzclub.jpg" width="320" /></a>The art movement known as Cubism appeared in France between 1907 and 1912, influencing the development of Art Deco. The Cubists, themselves under the influence of Paul Cézanne, were interested in the simplification of forms to their geometric essentials: the cylinder, the sphere, the cone. In the 1920s, travel posters, made for steamship lines and airlines, became extremely popular. <br /></p><p>By the 1930s, the style had been somewhat simplified, but it was still extravagant.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUZtI4g6ppT8KQ8rHsBgQyEgsX9X8YuVkK8XqKFTNiPDsHUpj50Q8Ezacs9OGZVVYP8759D1xvX9YvS1sNj_kuThVB9lwLnT1r-d3ivd4pKjrNfwOZjxyVg8fA3vDGJceZoeJLmswjIVgFaUggBWlMnnK5UVkxce9Y2QxjKebq3-hTbc8l4y9Hz82P/s800/Chrysler-Building-New-York-City.webp" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="511" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUZtI4g6ppT8KQ8rHsBgQyEgsX9X8YuVkK8XqKFTNiPDsHUpj50Q8Ezacs9OGZVVYP8759D1xvX9YvS1sNj_kuThVB9lwLnT1r-d3ivd4pKjrNfwOZjxyVg8fA3vDGJceZoeJLmswjIVgFaUggBWlMnnK5UVkxce9Y2QxjKebq3-hTbc8l4y9Hz82P/s320/Chrysler-Building-New-York-City.webp" width="204" /></a>American skyscrapers marked the summit of the Art Deco style; they
became the tallest and most recognizable modern buildings in the world. New York City's skyline was radically changed by the Chrysler Building in Manhattan (completed in 1930). The Chrysler Building was soon surpassed in height by the Empire State Building (1931), in a slightly less lavish Deco style. These two buildings plus other Art Deco ones tofollow completely changed New York City's skyline.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaHHoKSjGvmDc1Dsj3RamL1sMba_GihyWuLNn8pvsbunSOc1fwB_E8bfdjFHVDZdsxOIEkS3SyWzTMnFD_w1uLNUtpKIPEwUUG6nyO0TubinuEKnnKyw3zH2YkMKOnnG3aRgyDKQ8D-7ymAMLB8jJwz4QJOPpKjCp2BmpaLHPVisykxyH9P5GLPi_N/s623/Lurelle_Guild._Vacuum_Cleaner,_ca._1937..jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="623" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaHHoKSjGvmDc1Dsj3RamL1sMba_GihyWuLNn8pvsbunSOc1fwB_E8bfdjFHVDZdsxOIEkS3SyWzTMnFD_w1uLNUtpKIPEwUUG6nyO0TubinuEKnnKyw3zH2YkMKOnnG3aRgyDKQ8D-7ymAMLB8jJwz4QJOPpKjCp2BmpaLHPVisykxyH9P5GLPi_N/s320/Lurelle_Guild._Vacuum_Cleaner,_ca._1937..jpg" width="320" /></a>After World War II the style largely vanished, except in
industrial design, where it continued to be used in automobile styling
and products such as jukeboxes and certain household items, reflecting a more modern feeling for luxury. </p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN6AqjUByuWW_PiwnBA2v0f88xTaCm2E8DH-h3I8iEeYJ250Imp3B843jAELrXDpGX1Od6VtG4JvzKW6hY13LgX_UedJblV4b677Byn14wG7SnSiVzUzrxjYemiOi_xYZxIC8QpuS17E1dr30tqdJZvNJgNOzqu-nOBgukc5NPsJy5iXvYyXtojqB_/s4608/DSCN0358.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4608" data-original-width="2592" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN6AqjUByuWW_PiwnBA2v0f88xTaCm2E8DH-h3I8iEeYJ250Imp3B843jAELrXDpGX1Od6VtG4JvzKW6hY13LgX_UedJblV4b677Byn14wG7SnSiVzUzrxjYemiOi_xYZxIC8QpuS17E1dr30tqdJZvNJgNOzqu-nOBgukc5NPsJy5iXvYyXtojqB_/w225-h400/DSCN0358.JPG" width="225" /></a>One of the best known and certainly the largest public Art Deco sculpture is the Christ the Redeemer, by the French sculptor Paul Landowski, completed between 1922 and 1931, located on a mountain top overlooking Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. You probably didn't realise it is Art Deco. I didn't when I was there.<br /></p><p>After the First World War, Art Deco buildings of steel and reinforced
concrete began to appear in large cities across Europe and the United
States. In the United States the style was most commonly used for office
buildings, government buildings, cinemas, and railroad stations. Many of the best surviving examples of Art Deco are cinemas built in the 1920s and 1930s. In the late 1930s, a new variety of Art Deco architecture became common; it was called Streamline, or, in France, the <i>Style Paquebot</i>,
or Ocean Liner style. Buildings in the style had rounded corners and
long horizontal lines; they were built of reinforced concrete, and were
almost always white; and they sometimes had nautical features, such as
railings and portholes that resembled those on a ship. </p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCf_WLz3hHu0V7cc0ExdodkpxTmUKS0J-HVkKliUHjMxIW91OKZytPDbAiGx1BukFkgtdN8DVelvpulmjmX2dkp-IAS1cA93hb_KR9-fA8tjWTgCB7dnyJ3YwCnCsFCQYvhq0S8NlbLsQNftHW3Sj-9SweLfVF51bhDuREgoWOIU3aPooMEWiWj4Hp/s6016/DSC_1042.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCf_WLz3hHu0V7cc0ExdodkpxTmUKS0J-HVkKliUHjMxIW91OKZytPDbAiGx1BukFkgtdN8DVelvpulmjmX2dkp-IAS1cA93hb_KR9-fA8tjWTgCB7dnyJ3YwCnCsFCQYvhq0S8NlbLsQNftHW3Sj-9SweLfVF51bhDuREgoWOIU3aPooMEWiWj4Hp/w400-h266/DSC_1042.JPG" width="400" /></a> </p><p>Most of these Art Deco elements can be seen in Napier's public buildings and residential homes of the period. Check out the horizontal stripes, arches, floral details. rounded corners, geometric details. </p><p>The street signs are in the Broadway font to suggest Art Deco styling such as was used in concert posters.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgri53YfpUCcwliSOVTKfuK5LBcBETho_lIOtI8C_jd0KdRfdCFEOcTHtz1o-3liWeGPdKoGmCC8h2bA7MVtxoffQvIbI2lnKHXR2bFWaep7tf9MKG4omigfmsSFAr99UwzhJ0qfsMRFdl2IAYJB3dpX19OApnRmc9a6vc9L50AjGX5FoDnq7OhMxhd/s6016/DSC_1026.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgri53YfpUCcwliSOVTKfuK5LBcBETho_lIOtI8C_jd0KdRfdCFEOcTHtz1o-3liWeGPdKoGmCC8h2bA7MVtxoffQvIbI2lnKHXR2bFWaep7tf9MKG4omigfmsSFAr99UwzhJ0qfsMRFdl2IAYJB3dpX19OApnRmc9a6vc9L50AjGX5FoDnq7OhMxhd/s320/DSC_1026.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSjRjJn0JRJwJ94b1CmTnjrzAnLhJVAxH8nvwYS4O-0krZGYDW38p8dvyevBmd7-BVijzcvb_iznjFZS2brgxfKQsqhDOD_HeHNldWlSGG7I9lg0T8PPTYinOedu0DK-WkRw3CitFj5R42_GLe78HU8rdrHZ6IW07SZ68wJ6PhMYJz6yvEvr81brdE/s6016/DSC_1028.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSjRjJn0JRJwJ94b1CmTnjrzAnLhJVAxH8nvwYS4O-0krZGYDW38p8dvyevBmd7-BVijzcvb_iznjFZS2brgxfKQsqhDOD_HeHNldWlSGG7I9lg0T8PPTYinOedu0DK-WkRw3CitFj5R42_GLe78HU8rdrHZ6IW07SZ68wJ6PhMYJz6yvEvr81brdE/w200-h133/DSC_1028.JPG" width="200" /></a> Note the amazing internal details and external details on the front door of the old Tobacco Company in Napier. </p><p> </p><p> </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOoosQob-XULUwaBVs-aI62x5IeQXbp0Fpboa8HxsZfiRN5pWx3QTBL7v2D_u80sRshdpJDJotUP-C7brAbk1ZeV00WGytfZD4KlGdpkmL2VPbmrUAQKqxqkm2uO0thOEd2EIDA-Y18LTOUB1fRbrZYIIEVmuP8GUZr7Yvdao5tsfT0Ky4gt6GB1d9/s6016/DSC_1031.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6016" data-original-width="4000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOoosQob-XULUwaBVs-aI62x5IeQXbp0Fpboa8HxsZfiRN5pWx3QTBL7v2D_u80sRshdpJDJotUP-C7brAbk1ZeV00WGytfZD4KlGdpkmL2VPbmrUAQKqxqkm2uO0thOEd2EIDA-Y18LTOUB1fRbrZYIIEVmuP8GUZr7Yvdao5tsfT0Ky4gt6GB1d9/s320/DSC_1031.JPG" width="213" /></a></div> The detail on the doors is wonderfully botannical. It fits so well with the other deco elements. Who would have thought geometric designs and flowing florals could work so well together?<p></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifCWMW7IDfFplQJoZgCyQLQhUdEAf5UAyU2kPzhLj0oIWfk-UJoA6X8xNRbmPEidc7hvZnPvFexqIsUIpeERwwUnhqEYQT2UcOugFpob-o6D0k8TjUWlmc20HZxChx7yxfBVAgsfEpcouc33m3aQkS0fY55qqXiOyReCb06K8hgJNHcnczw63bdh4P/s6016/DSC_1036.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifCWMW7IDfFplQJoZgCyQLQhUdEAf5UAyU2kPzhLj0oIWfk-UJoA6X8xNRbmPEidc7hvZnPvFexqIsUIpeERwwUnhqEYQT2UcOugFpob-o6D0k8TjUWlmc20HZxChx7yxfBVAgsfEpcouc33m3aQkS0fY55qqXiOyReCb06K8hgJNHcnczw63bdh4P/w400-h266/DSC_1036.JPG" width="400" /></a>The residential areas of Napier also reveal their Art Deco elements, mostly stripes, geometric design and rounded corners, flattish roofs. In one entire street, most of the homes, now more than 90 years old, are built in this same style. The street also houses an impressive row of mature pohutukawa.<br /></p><p>There are buildings, both residential, civic and industrial, scattered around New Zealand in this very distinctive style but nowhere but Napier and Hastings is there such a concentration that the cities are famous for this style of architecture. And the fame is well deserved.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg61jP5DM3mR0LiT_eMFN__9vwKB6dh9dnm9W7WFEQsM3HnLi0dvwJxhZQuD7eevjaDn9OPnzjErRfH0EuThY_bus_t6pqWPNAKbkesjcNz0rm0IvlF4qH3fTsABgSxbsOICxmsUr5xjwJr8_HmUnGMsVEk_0obAJg20EhYtqhisyS6QhHn5vH7UMxv/s6016/DSC_1035.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg61jP5DM3mR0LiT_eMFN__9vwKB6dh9dnm9W7WFEQsM3HnLi0dvwJxhZQuD7eevjaDn9OPnzjErRfH0EuThY_bus_t6pqWPNAKbkesjcNz0rm0IvlF4qH3fTsABgSxbsOICxmsUr5xjwJr8_HmUnGMsVEk_0obAJg20EhYtqhisyS6QhHn5vH7UMxv/w400-h266/DSC_1035.JPG" width="400" /></a> </p><p> </p><p>Not all the homes are well maintained but most are.<br /></p><p> </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrz_zYUT9wIkhwnT5wydTorXL4bGIQP4VxAggAfZS3CRz4Ir8ggaTq7ldbwyHS-iAlpTxf15e9LW1icr2YIMbt8Om46P-q0P5TSdqK7hTeslrs9jXTwlImx57BIDb3nJYAlIAWYKjXLl7BU9tjDYJvncpdEs6X-2YzmCTJuuqPQQyLtlwkCithUtgK/s6016/DSC_1043.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrz_zYUT9wIkhwnT5wydTorXL4bGIQP4VxAggAfZS3CRz4Ir8ggaTq7ldbwyHS-iAlpTxf15e9LW1icr2YIMbt8Om46P-q0P5TSdqK7hTeslrs9jXTwlImx57BIDb3nJYAlIAWYKjXLl7BU9tjDYJvncpdEs6X-2YzmCTJuuqPQQyLtlwkCithUtgK/s320/DSC_1043.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p>The archways and other structures along the esplanade display a subtle use of Art Deco elements. Also evident in Napier is a particular style of Art Deco I had been unaware of and that's the 'Spanish' influence. Several buildings on the main streets reflect this. Check out the photos below and see how many elements of Art Deco style you can now identify.<br /></p><p><br /></p><p> </p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPDcoINYi9eblmQKUZ4LuGIi2E2J5V_f4esT7wRkkdtpCi7s7md3rVnGPZyNtlpY37Nhdgc6g0XthgcL-kmsUlrYia0nfNwDZ43_xRjWfr1sHb6D-hmdz8PksHXXv-m58qA8wSC9kJPSy2YnBpRv_dHRRC73Ur1voHDiCarduA3vDg3Oa5gLh9mS21/s6016/DSC_1054.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPDcoINYi9eblmQKUZ4LuGIi2E2J5V_f4esT7wRkkdtpCi7s7md3rVnGPZyNtlpY37Nhdgc6g0XthgcL-kmsUlrYia0nfNwDZ43_xRjWfr1sHb6D-hmdz8PksHXXv-m58qA8wSC9kJPSy2YnBpRv_dHRRC73Ur1voHDiCarduA3vDg3Oa5gLh9mS21/w640-h426/DSC_1054.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC-wpYGuB9rVlu3xCv60Qv1FBz0JkkCIdEeefZ1lCa3pO-XuLC19wWU68Aa-LgiwDkOdZ_8a9eEn9QkPbf75Ch8GSZZl4nEXcnAFu8ztC5DKVWZEwSzgANJyfgH_SmH5g0Aehm8VKRbYSSn3HPGNCy6W9bvHARz1ff3AtyE8NPUhn58xrsSKBKYmhu/s6016/DSC_1044.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC-wpYGuB9rVlu3xCv60Qv1FBz0JkkCIdEeefZ1lCa3pO-XuLC19wWU68Aa-LgiwDkOdZ_8a9eEn9QkPbf75Ch8GSZZl4nEXcnAFu8ztC5DKVWZEwSzgANJyfgH_SmH5g0Aehm8VKRbYSSn3HPGNCy6W9bvHARz1ff3AtyE8NPUhn58xrsSKBKYmhu/w640-h426/DSC_1044.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhla4YwEmbrJfuXFZSeJjnQiWsEDKSW_-L-Mrrf9WtBKMv4s9V5PkR3SzxQUIlSWEW1guYUyQmf-lc51uBLHuvClG4yqaHjpgU-AQE8E_TmBDzsnz5VUWWUmRJqQQIYyGlja7LMfAk7ezK8p3W4qORp-9uvYXoQpZz4YsvxRVHO7NG9t7_pEcSjmd47/s6016/DSC_1053.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhla4YwEmbrJfuXFZSeJjnQiWsEDKSW_-L-Mrrf9WtBKMv4s9V5PkR3SzxQUIlSWEW1guYUyQmf-lc51uBLHuvClG4yqaHjpgU-AQE8E_TmBDzsnz5VUWWUmRJqQQIYyGlja7LMfAk7ezK8p3W4qORp-9uvYXoQpZz4YsvxRVHO7NG9t7_pEcSjmd47/w640-h426/DSC_1053.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /> <br /><p></p>Frances Lawsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08107995840713193160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5507816931969163563.post-49974144122640018952023-03-08T12:12:00.000-08:002023-03-08T12:12:53.225-08:00One year on from heart-stopping moments<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuD_jjc9ILuIQodnRi5HsF0w0rIlevwLyNIgEfI8Yc-LB3xn_l70xa-aMCSy26o3ZIsBimxqmFbA9CNo1f4x-qiINy4Xgnbhjtr8Z9mt5UzVPDVafTB9BEpv201nFignJsOx_48AIQyhrGUPk-GQVFeEa0S1o8GVc4LSbjBZKQAAFPF6fOe3JWCkAj/s960/277007174_10158716184678133_6489484967089116898_n.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuD_jjc9ILuIQodnRi5HsF0w0rIlevwLyNIgEfI8Yc-LB3xn_l70xa-aMCSy26o3ZIsBimxqmFbA9CNo1f4x-qiINy4Xgnbhjtr8Z9mt5UzVPDVafTB9BEpv201nFignJsOx_48AIQyhrGUPk-GQVFeEa0S1o8GVc4LSbjBZKQAAFPF6fOe3JWCkAj/w300-h400/277007174_10158716184678133_6489484967089116898_n.jpg" width="300" /></a><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Yesterday
marked a year since my double open heart surgeries. Though I am a member of two
Facebook support groups for this I do not identify as a ‘Heart Warrior’ or a ‘Zipper’.
I prefer to put it behind me, despite multiple setbacks. It’s just yet another
of my grand adventures. But this first anniversary does deserve some
reflection. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"> I am
grateful to have been completely unaware of the drama that was unfolding,
especially of the reasons for the second opening-me-up and then wiring my chest
back together. I do not remember ICU. I do not remember the post-op transition ward. I
remember only some of my two weeks on the cardiosurgical ward. Some of it is
muddled due to hallucinations and my brain and body focussing on other
priorities.</span> <span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">During
those brutal surgeries I did not see a tunnel with a light at the end. I did
not see angels or hear a voice telling me to stay or go. There was simply
nothingness. Medical staff seem to have had some difficulties getting me to
wake up. I suffered atrial fibrillation for most of my stay there and one of my
first memories is of wearing a Holter monitor around my neck which sent my
heart data live via telemetry to a base station somewhere in the hospital. I
remember being conscious of my hands for the first time and seeing strange
bulbous, yellow stumpy things attached to huge arms. There was significant
oedema. Most days I slowly got better. I was determined to reclaim a life.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW4GshwV9lhLMeemjYDNGiFgHFXsnJBQsXguOXmJX5ljmcqmElztWXICatyW2giooVaf7CSQY4UDrtE351KO5EfLvk2-BRjMuEFgtJ53Ee_TMAgAvV-A4KKMnb5dw_cwoa9fE0PLsHPgxGgkp0VqtkMbzCa0gdt920844Di_ctW5wVKF5ZnLZOUpAZ/s278/images2.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="181" data-original-width="278" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW4GshwV9lhLMeemjYDNGiFgHFXsnJBQsXguOXmJX5ljmcqmElztWXICatyW2giooVaf7CSQY4UDrtE351KO5EfLvk2-BRjMuEFgtJ53Ee_TMAgAvV-A4KKMnb5dw_cwoa9fE0PLsHPgxGgkp0VqtkMbzCa0gdt920844Di_ctW5wVKF5ZnLZOUpAZ/w400-h260/images2.jpg" width="400" /></a><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Though I
seem well now I would not say I feel ‘normal’ as I have probably never been
that, heartwise. I get tired easily and hot weather is particularly taxing. Despite having a new replacement mitral valve,
the years of heart over-effort have created some negative changes to the structure
of my left ventricle. Maybe it will remodel itself now, or not. I am very
aware of everything my heart does: every beat, squirm, heart rate. It is not
always comfortable in my chest and reminds me it is not always at ease with
itself. My surgeon told me, on the only visit I had from her in the hospital,
that my heart had not liked being manhandled. On the 8 March 2022 my heart
which had faithfully tried to keep beating for 66 years was stopped, twice. It
was manhandled as necessary during the operations and restarts but it didn’t
like it and threw wobblies (arrhythmias). Some of us have hearts that are
particularly sensitive to being touched. Apparently that was the case for mine,
she said.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">During some
of my more difficult challenges and setbacks through the long recuperation and
doing all I could to help myself improve, I did wonder if it would have been
better to have just not survived that first surgery. I wouldn’t have been the
wiser. My affairs were in order. It’s a normal reaction, but if life has taught
me anything it is that you can never see around the corner and just maybe there
are things worth doing and enjoying as I go along. Hang in just a bit longer
and see what good might happen. I have been given a year of life I would not
have otherwise had. Perhaps there are many quality ones ahead.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjel5bVjh8xx30NWmTek1C-888ev5a_S0hqyjBaTaW99pAl8qgJ5-BdgdSHDGAp2J9daq7192uk-eUxuSZsmEEDD6xN5LCDPnHj1s41BsFqrYfLzoWhFCWyPdJNlyk_323zPdkU2f-z6TO9EzWL70S0toFptTS6gIZeOYK8ZysaUe2gIvwHae0TBQlN/s1024/original_file_lock.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjel5bVjh8xx30NWmTek1C-888ev5a_S0hqyjBaTaW99pAl8qgJ5-BdgdSHDGAp2J9daq7192uk-eUxuSZsmEEDD6xN5LCDPnHj1s41BsFqrYfLzoWhFCWyPdJNlyk_323zPdkU2f-z6TO9EzWL70S0toFptTS6gIZeOYK8ZysaUe2gIvwHae0TBQlN/s320/original_file_lock.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>I have
dreams and hopes which others would find far-fetched or even reckless. I have
survived tough stuff throughout my life and my heart surgeries may not be the
last. It is probable I will have to face more heart surgeries in the future
because my new valve will not last. In the interim I want/need to fill my life
with wonder, excitement, doable challenges because without them it’s stagnation
and not really living. I don’t want a non-life in some sort of holding pattern which so many settle for as they
get older so I'm trying my best to be the healthiest and strongest I can be.<br /><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Coming back from the brink means, for me, making the rest of my life
count for something. Love, in all its forms, is the means. I’ll follow my heart
as it has followed me, and hope we will together find comfort and contentment along
the way.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"> <br /></span></p>
<p></p>Frances Lawsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08107995840713193160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5507816931969163563.post-26147628549954641192023-02-21T22:20:00.006-08:002023-02-21T22:56:04.444-08:00Gibbston Valley Winery Rock Concert<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFiDaB-EGm7PAFyuUXwG0mNzxapdBqMHc0IR_W5VmMdwpAqYCMA1xaluHe60Rpt8K4muQKHZXUHOnbLDUB95dIIQVsi1fcks5E-5WVLpD39ONl6amBsnfb4ert1crXz_qfexsNAib5eF9jiw2CWJudc25MU36v_1wgN4_WZwvXyOXQFv_IXNTiELm8/s6016/DSC_1229.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFiDaB-EGm7PAFyuUXwG0mNzxapdBqMHc0IR_W5VmMdwpAqYCMA1xaluHe60Rpt8K4muQKHZXUHOnbLDUB95dIIQVsi1fcks5E-5WVLpD39ONl6amBsnfb4ert1crXz_qfexsNAib5eF9jiw2CWJudc25MU36v_1wgN4_WZwvXyOXQFv_IXNTiELm8/w400-h266/DSC_1229.JPG" width="400" /></a> I had never been to an outdoor rock concert out in the countryside before. The last concert I attended outside was at Addington, Christchurch in 1985, Dire Straits, and there was nowhere to sit down and I'd had no chair. I went on my own.<br /></p><p>Gibbston Valley Winery 2023 had things pretty organised. If one didn't feel like driving to the venue and being locked in a sea of cars one could take an organised bus from Queenstown School to the venue which is a good 20 minutes away. From there there was a bit of a walk with folding chairs and other comfort paraphenalia, squeezing past folks already installed on the grass or standing on the gravelled dance space in front of the stage, and then getting settled oneself.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv6nN8fpegjU3Axjhzb_WW0xKwXDRVgC1mou0P2BZarPabY2J4ckTDzPJ56D9Ga7odycjtLGIq4w3dqxcpwqZy2iOVYfxrXEJvsPtGA3VU--guT3cAt0DFip9NbVDxJwU85VFwDP0qQYha5SZ1SbgJYCT3n3sFM-ct2ofyLg-EY9udEv1vxQTmIS5c/s3393/DSC_1230.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3393" data-original-width="3016" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv6nN8fpegjU3Axjhzb_WW0xKwXDRVgC1mou0P2BZarPabY2J4ckTDzPJ56D9Ga7odycjtLGIq4w3dqxcpwqZy2iOVYfxrXEJvsPtGA3VU--guT3cAt0DFip9NbVDxJwU85VFwDP0qQYha5SZ1SbgJYCT3n3sFM-ct2ofyLg-EY9udEv1vxQTmIS5c/w355-h400/DSC_1230.JPG" width="355" /></a>I was there principally to see ZZ Top and their new lineup which these days includes Elwood Francis on bass guitar, but I was curious to see and hear the other rock acts; The Angels, Stone Temple Pilots, Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo. As a rock bassist I already play numbers by The Angels and ZZ Top and was hoping those numbers would be included in their setlists.</p><p>The weather was warm, to say the least as The Angels took to the stage. I'm very familiar with one of their songs and they did play it. It was acceptable but I was distracted by the current lead singer. Early in their set he gave me the impression of being under the influence of something - drugs, alcohol? I don't know but he almost tripped over his own feet three times within the first number. He gave the impression of trying too hard, deliberately setting himself onto the drum riser in order to jump off. It looked premeditated and screamed 'Look at me!' I was not impressed and just sat there in my camp chair, feeling increasingly heated.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQMGoJmjHVVNaFNdEFGnYTymnxd0JevTooMQ_KupRGzS68cGfmTFoci6B7jBJbry9YczSwY6kJRdKF4pNFI0DeK9vlVEEe6zj8eXZn78Vzx5276w0UF017M-1kPjGB4qgrK7urUMTAwrQEx-IkT-tzef0uo0KkgukZF6pPNcAlPwJTQK-VGP070m3B/s3086/DSC_1236.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2137" data-original-width="3086" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQMGoJmjHVVNaFNdEFGnYTymnxd0JevTooMQ_KupRGzS68cGfmTFoci6B7jBJbry9YczSwY6kJRdKF4pNFI0DeK9vlVEEe6zj8eXZn78Vzx5276w0UF017M-1kPjGB4qgrK7urUMTAwrQEx-IkT-tzef0uo0KkgukZF6pPNcAlPwJTQK-VGP070m3B/w400-h278/DSC_1236.JPG" width="400" /></a>Now it was time for Stone Temple Pilots. I don't know the music of this group but they were polished and definitely hard rock, as was their frontman. However, as they left the stage I was not inspired to check out their musical offerings online.</p><p>Each group seemed to have been allocated approximately one hour, with a half hour turn-around for the technical crew to break down and set up for the next act. Generally that went smoothly and the audience had easy opportunity to visit toilets, merchandise tents (anything worthwhile sold out immediately) and grab some snack food.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkqJ_OAbEfkBjseY1_mAvUEsag8gKkw81i3CZ2xH8sNVm76Q5RUxcarQxRx7qz9BNIq5XFY3tv9rhK57rUfG_QYd9XndLke0Ay4nV30LRK2lrrLp1GBK4Ac3rYbTnl7-jwUrOpoTzocNuRm184egIkAxemiI9HKIk0Ixi-cDt3JvRHekKpRWgEXMXG/s3038/DSC_1237.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3038" data-original-width="2902" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkqJ_OAbEfkBjseY1_mAvUEsag8gKkw81i3CZ2xH8sNVm76Q5RUxcarQxRx7qz9BNIq5XFY3tv9rhK57rUfG_QYd9XndLke0Ay4nV30LRK2lrrLp1GBK4Ac3rYbTnl7-jwUrOpoTzocNuRm184egIkAxemiI9HKIk0Ixi-cDt3JvRHekKpRWgEXMXG/w383-h400/DSC_1237.JPG" width="383" /></a>Next up were Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo (Pat's second husband, married 1992).</p><p>Despite the silver hair they are a very polished act. Neil, whose nick-name is Spyder) is a very competent lead guitarist. He doesn't hog the stage though, he supports Pat and does mostly backing vocals.</p><p>Pat is still impressive, vocally. There may be the occasional tweak to the higher notes to bring them down a fraction but she still has a powerful presentation, great intonation and knows how to be an entertainer with class. She works hard, without TRYING too hard. She just 'is'. The crowd responded enthusiastically to her, singing and dancing along to her most recognisable numbers.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho-72jYNaDvk65iUEztRRSJXGejM29u3pF29cZtQV4XG96_60SLg8Z4RE_XH53pruXE-GIFUlw7-iiEW9G8Xc9YWpnUT0fjxa6bYVSoMSAjC_M3DiwJF8Q_RqKvul756iNFR26Vu-Hxd5nGfiA3dCWWbB4OuB9c86g9UXpNO8R5w5CgVKYxkxgiZXr/s3980/DSC_1241.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3980" data-original-width="2952" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho-72jYNaDvk65iUEztRRSJXGejM29u3pF29cZtQV4XG96_60SLg8Z4RE_XH53pruXE-GIFUlw7-iiEW9G8Xc9YWpnUT0fjxa6bYVSoMSAjC_M3DiwJF8Q_RqKvul756iNFR26Vu-Hxd5nGfiA3dCWWbB4OuB9c86g9UXpNO8R5w5CgVKYxkxgiZXr/w296-h400/DSC_1241.JPG" width="296" /></a>And then it was time. Time for the group many of us had come specifically to see - ZZ Top. I love their more rocky numbers rather than the particular bluesy numbers. As the sun beat down on us with scarcely any breeze I was thrilled to actually see this famous trio in the flesh instead of on YouTube.<br /></p><p>I really enjoy playing bass on their songs because although their songs don't involve a lot of chords, they have a driving energy that really appeals to me. They are a great example of how a three piece band can sound tight and interesting for decades. </p><p></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjISIWYCIPlGuBG4CTpntk0W4gZQ5WgF3_p4GfcZdClTfjREBOpXabuqeOVqI3moALLbIjhFbOX2b99LSmkqrGnfGpNCVBy8ZB1Ez4cZmp8Kg-PgHYkbAx7podZwpUNXPlOu11EkZ9cGiytfsI5oHzCSDh-G4pyl5vrFcgnHS5EbLoPOAU8EgONZG7R/s3479/DSC_1239.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3479" data-original-width="3133" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjISIWYCIPlGuBG4CTpntk0W4gZQ5WgF3_p4GfcZdClTfjREBOpXabuqeOVqI3moALLbIjhFbOX2b99LSmkqrGnfGpNCVBy8ZB1Ez4cZmp8Kg-PgHYkbAx7podZwpUNXPlOu11EkZ9cGiytfsI5oHzCSDh-G4pyl5vrFcgnHS5EbLoPOAU8EgONZG7R/s320/DSC_1239.JPG" width="288" /></a></p> <p></p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p>Of particular interest was their new band member Elwood Francis. Elwood was bassist Dusty Hill's technician for many years and also Dusty's choice to replace him when he <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmQ3SooDxILV4nV6pukOO0CzJcI45L3Re4pz_vyVjTNTzNpxe-Xt2KBtnq_bX0N6PMlMuufScViD16ouJx1ceN8BGjBkFlve0kFC-l3R4NxCjnaJNC4pBAlAYFk5TZpZ5m1wLBZeFLXhk63LU8h-IvAbWl-0N14S10xF-exMyUgj9k1UgQLezcoJIn/s3219/DSC_1246.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3093" data-original-width="3219" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmQ3SooDxILV4nV6pukOO0CzJcI45L3Re4pz_vyVjTNTzNpxe-Xt2KBtnq_bX0N6PMlMuufScViD16ouJx1ceN8BGjBkFlve0kFC-l3R4NxCjnaJNC4pBAlAYFk5TZpZ5m1wLBZeFLXhk63LU8h-IvAbWl-0N14S10xF-exMyUgj9k1UgQLezcoJIn/s320/DSC_1246.JPG" width="320" /></a>became incapacitated and later died. Already fitting into the hirsute duo concept, he knows all the songs and can sing but needs more encouragement to do so. I really enjoyed his freshness and playfulness. Billy Gibbons and his bassist are known for a few fun choreographed moves but it was clear Elwood wanted to do more and would nudge Billy into doing a bit more of this fun stuff. </p><p>And yes... out came the fluffy guitars adorned in sheepskin but not the spinning gimmicks from one of their famous music videos of the past. Billy and the band signed a lady's pair of sneakers. As ZZ Top made their bows to the audience it was clear that Frank Beard, drummer, was not in the same sartorial or physical state as Billy and Elwood. Frank looked haggard, tatty as he shuffled off stage. I do hope he's not back on drugs or having health issues.<br /></p><p>I shall, of course, be working on more ZZ Top numbers to share in the future.</p><p>The only blot on the day was trying to get back to Queenstown. As the crowd walked a fair distance down the fields to where we expected our buses to be lined up we were dismayed to find only one for the thousands of spectators who were hot, parched, tired and, in some cases, a bit drunk. The most massive queue I have ever been in watched nonplussed as that bus filled up and slowly made its way to the exit. There was no communication from organisers/marshalls as to where the buses were, how long they would be. After several attempts to get any information from a marshall we were informed that each bus would have its own destination: Queenstown, Frankton, Arrowtown etc so just hopping on a bus would not be a good idea. There were no signs. I sat down, knowing that if a bus was lucky enough to get to Queenstown and then come back for some of us it would be at least a 40 min trip. This was unreasonable. Take note please, Greenstone Entertainment.<br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhALh-J6-ILkzu6v3Kf-lxAGNF0T8A7spe7TqcezWR6iyFD9ahkC_iwtttWxvZByG085Gy9_uGgcFAlxs80wAH1oWnmSPYrHVpqArvotjDDOrlVb7RjU5fpXE343HKkHVsWgg36qjYgddLQzkmJBJ24wXPLtIqwZ9JXEC4gcF3uRN2NKTVs9H0rJTY3/s6016/DSC_1227.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhALh-J6-ILkzu6v3Kf-lxAGNF0T8A7spe7TqcezWR6iyFD9ahkC_iwtttWxvZByG085Gy9_uGgcFAlxs80wAH1oWnmSPYrHVpqArvotjDDOrlVb7RjU5fpXE343HKkHVsWgg36qjYgddLQzkmJBJ24wXPLtIqwZ9JXEC4gcF3uRN2NKTVs9H0rJTY3/s320/DSC_1227.JPG" width="320" /></a>Tempers began to flare, and rightly so. One guy became belligerant about the lack of buses and lack of communication. The marshall got flustered. Eventually a few more buses arrived but the crowd rushed the buses so that those who had been waiting at the head of the queue missed out. The crowd became more angry. Thirsty, tired and bored we waited for someone to sort it out but the bus drivers didn't have a clue. They should have driven to the front of the queue and only opened their doors when the bus in front was full. Instead we got a dangerous stampede. Mr Belligerant tried to stop people getting on buses until those at the front had seats but it was not to be. Punches were thrown, folks were shoved. It was getting nasty. What a disappointing lack of organisation and communication. It spoilt an otherwise happy day. Two hours later we eventually arrived back in Queenstown, too tired to eat or do anything but have a cuppa and head for sleep.</p><p><i>Last photo is taken off Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo's FB page. It gives you a good idea of the size of the audience and the great atmosphere during the concert.</i><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_qpgJlvSn2-dC8osR0t7rIe3NQKVlGROi4TorQOXCCQh8TroKmMU97bPhCqgxwvtWKlQTORlWEDjU61n7crXNEmUhJFuMz9lHObFt2sSYZzX5VGcCv_3pFc_1L_0Tip2tp3f_aznn14ET8PcMNbw4vQxCreZK1NNshv_H7SsWCO1v-I1xhTf5jUtk/s1440/329813058_1332096507586944_749070169236389898_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1440" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_qpgJlvSn2-dC8osR0t7rIe3NQKVlGROi4TorQOXCCQh8TroKmMU97bPhCqgxwvtWKlQTORlWEDjU61n7crXNEmUhJFuMz9lHObFt2sSYZzX5VGcCv_3pFc_1L_0Tip2tp3f_aznn14ET8PcMNbw4vQxCreZK1NNshv_H7SsWCO1v-I1xhTf5jUtk/w640-h480/329813058_1332096507586944_749070169236389898_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /></div><br /><p><br /></p>Frances Lawsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08107995840713193160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5507816931969163563.post-70379662195475712132023-02-03T21:51:00.000-08:002023-02-03T21:51:05.624-08:00Wings over Whales<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpbdPMb77vfM1h4pH7LKatAJABynxdSFN-u4wy0hKGLZeD-dSgBLWBmu2utoGyH_rIg3QdkIrDgdxk3wVnDQv2YYvu2Ck8LWih5-KTY7htBBSwBXS3eNI-EFj6BbLaaUAx49DnibdLNo3X2hUu1T9lVbGVepquPfU0YwLFuR65PCvhLbqdUv_H9IRj/s6016/DSC_1133.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpbdPMb77vfM1h4pH7LKatAJABynxdSFN-u4wy0hKGLZeD-dSgBLWBmu2utoGyH_rIg3QdkIrDgdxk3wVnDQv2YYvu2Ck8LWih5-KTY7htBBSwBXS3eNI-EFj6BbLaaUAx49DnibdLNo3X2hUu1T9lVbGVepquPfU0YwLFuR65PCvhLbqdUv_H9IRj/w400-h266/DSC_1133.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p> Ever since I was an adolescent I've had a soft spot for whales and dolphins, but especially whales.</p><p>When an opportunity to see whales from the air was offered me I was right into it.</p><p>If Whale Watching by boat is full up this aerial excursion is a useful alternative. Wings over Whales is a 30 minute fixed-wing flight.<br /></p><p>On arrival at the airfield just outside Kaikoura we were given an overview of what to expect and also safety precautions. Our pilot looked so young but seemed very competent.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMAj2EqMs5Jmr6JwgeywMCKBrDxjqmwpopeZtCOKt8uyDvKq9UmHBgwvggfTrokY44zduvsdYO91Zq0edFLIbNfYFUAHASMwN38f2xZVn7ehqiLfk7LD9IJsAsJz8mTPy36VthopP2EVm75IkNxFQkZwDE9Ein26K1DvWvlxHfqfAMqwsIgKEvaL2E/s4317/DSC_1124.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2284" data-original-width="4317" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMAj2EqMs5Jmr6JwgeywMCKBrDxjqmwpopeZtCOKt8uyDvKq9UmHBgwvggfTrokY44zduvsdYO91Zq0edFLIbNfYFUAHASMwN38f2xZVn7ehqiLfk7LD9IJsAsJz8mTPy36VthopP2EVm75IkNxFQkZwDE9Ein26K1DvWvlxHfqfAMqwsIgKEvaL2E/w400-h211/DSC_1124.JPG" width="400" /></a>Passengers are most likely to see sperm whales as there's a population based permanently around Kaikoura due to the deep canyon and plenty of squid and other food available. Sperm whales can dive for 45 minutes and only surface for about 10 minutes to breathe so pilots need to keep that in mind when trying to time each flight to correspond when whales might be surfacing to breathe.</p><p>The best weather conditions include not too much sunny glare and few, if any, white caps on the water. This calmer water makes whale spotting a lot easier.</p><p>As you take off you pop on your headphones so you can hear the pilot and it pays to strap in. It's cramped and not that comfortable but that's not so important as actually seeing some whales. The pilot made a lot of sharp turns in order to allow both sides of the plane to take turns in seeing the wildlife. This is a wee bit unsettling in a small plane but you just have to trust the pilot to know what she is doing as you descend or climb somewhat on a steep lean.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPNVc3YkkudA9sImp13NxtwmuDzaW8cSwF04y5lJFRwI1zaG2Vl4UNNSjOM8xMlpkCyzYJTuRHLuxMDQVwAcr6RWlEb_ofrhu0tcHYNbFoIjjNyuKEZgUtHrXxnLCi7WgtLmMaJ6RoxlanUG9v8mHs171f4cira9kpsc6jpx64IIIwRsQ8F8TlC_R9/s6016/DSC_1132.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPNVc3YkkudA9sImp13NxtwmuDzaW8cSwF04y5lJFRwI1zaG2Vl4UNNSjOM8xMlpkCyzYJTuRHLuxMDQVwAcr6RWlEb_ofrhu0tcHYNbFoIjjNyuKEZgUtHrXxnLCi7WgtLmMaJ6RoxlanUG9v8mHs171f4cira9kpsc6jpx64IIIwRsQ8F8TlC_R9/w400-h266/DSC_1132.JPG" width="400" /></a>The pilot used an app attached to her dashboard which enabled her to see where whales had been spotted earlier in the day. This meant she had an idea of where and when a whale was likely to surface. Though it is hit and miss, the pilots are pretty experienced at getting in the right place at the right time. Our grand total for the trip was one sperm whale, two beaked whales and a large pod of Dusky dolphins playing energetically..</p><p>We were slightly unlucky in that the sperm whale we did spot did not stay on the surface for 10 minutes. We barely got 5 minutes and all the time the pilot was manoeuvring from left to right so each side of the plane could see things. This meant the other side of the plane could not see anything when it wasn't 'their turn'.</p><p>If you want to take decent photos you will need an expensive lens that will close up the distance as, from the air, you do not get close so the whales are tiny things below you. Planes have to stay a certain distance from the wildlife so as not to disturb.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_xmJOM0VUpZGhRkWtCFJwfKFWaCrQRwzVvPuSkulvS-f75CIiOpiyDDoihsTKcdK8URNOQVe65jVI_H555-CW40IMqWPpcpciZ4x147VU7A17ZFaZqS62m_Lzv3LMhZE-RK2bzawv1hBmiNfVz--r8Hva0Ai4v6Tz0LWYXuOzSPDOQ9wEiiVqTYs5/s6016/DSC_1118.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_xmJOM0VUpZGhRkWtCFJwfKFWaCrQRwzVvPuSkulvS-f75CIiOpiyDDoihsTKcdK8URNOQVe65jVI_H555-CW40IMqWPpcpciZ4x147VU7A17ZFaZqS62m_Lzv3LMhZE-RK2bzawv1hBmiNfVz--r8Hva0Ai4v6Tz0LWYXuOzSPDOQ9wEiiVqTYs5/w400-h266/DSC_1118.JPG" width="400" /></a>I didn't find the coastline of much interest. Coming from NZ, I've lived with Kiwi coastlines all my life. The sky was a bit dreary and overcast so the mountains didn't look very impressive anyway - very little snow on them, rather hazy overall.</p><p>I'm glad I had the opportunity to do it. The boat option may have been more impressive getting closer to a whale but there are no garantees of seeing one and the swells along the coast could make for a long, seasick time.<br /></p><p><br /></p><p></p><p><br /></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><p></p>Frances Lawsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08107995840713193160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5507816931969163563.post-25646633658784214642023-01-04T19:23:00.003-08:002023-01-05T15:05:33.923-08:00Aboard Driving Creek Railway<p><br /><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Bullet 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Number 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="10" QFormat="true" Name="Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Closing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Default Paragraph Font"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="List Continue 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Message Header"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="11" QFormat="true" Name="Subtitle"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Salutation"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Date"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text First Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Note Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Body Text Indent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Block Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Hyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="FollowedHyperlink"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="22" QFormat="true" Name="Strong"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="20" QFormat="true" Name="Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Document Map"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Plain Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="E-mail Signature"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Top of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Bottom of Form"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal (Web)"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Acronym"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Address"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Cite"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Code"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Definition"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Keyboard"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Preformatted"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Sample"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Typewriter"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="HTML Variable"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Normal Table"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="annotation subject"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="No List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Outline List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Simple 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Classic 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Colorful 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Columns 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Grid 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 7"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table List 8"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table 3D effects 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Contemporary"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Elegant"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Professional"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Subtle 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Web 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Balloon Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" Name="Table Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" UnhideWhenUsed="true"
Name="Table Theme"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Placeholder Text"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="1" QFormat="true" Name="No Spacing"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" SemiHidden="true" Name="Revision"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="34" QFormat="true"
Name="List Paragraph"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="29" QFormat="true" Name="Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="30" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Quote"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="60" Name="Light Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="61" Name="Light List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="62" Name="Light Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="63" Name="Medium Shading 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="64" Name="Medium Shading 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="65" Name="Medium List 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="66" Name="Medium List 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="67" Name="Medium Grid 1 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="68" Name="Medium Grid 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="69" Name="Medium Grid 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="70" Name="Dark List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="71" Name="Colorful Shading Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="72" Name="Colorful List Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="73" Name="Colorful Grid Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="19" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="21" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Emphasis"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="31" QFormat="true"
Name="Subtle Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="32" QFormat="true"
Name="Intense Reference"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="33" QFormat="true" Name="Book Title"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="37" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" Name="Bibliography"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="39" SemiHidden="true"
UnhideWhenUsed="true" QFormat="true" Name="TOC Heading"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="41" Name="Plain Table 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="42" Name="Plain Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="43" Name="Plain Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="44" Name="Plain Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="45" Name="Plain Table 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="40" Name="Grid Table Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="Grid Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 5"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="Grid Table 1 Light Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="Grid Table 2 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="Grid Table 3 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="Grid Table 4 Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="Grid Table 5 Dark Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51"
Name="Grid Table 6 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52"
Name="Grid Table 7 Colorful Accent 6"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46" Name="List Table 1 Light"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="51" Name="List Table 6 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="52" Name="List Table 7 Colorful"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="46"
Name="List Table 1 Light Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="47" Name="List Table 2 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="48" Name="List Table 3 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="49" Name="List Table 4 Accent 1"/>
<w:LsdException Locked="false" Priority="50" Name="List Table 5 Dark Accent 1"/>
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</p><p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAuzv5oWRQFFV85tC1tjxOuLDy_Q4gVzrQOC2G30L21dYzKArMfhPZZ51HdMm4CIdo3Q4SHDhmfO_npe7Tv4AV7Y6xAuQqNWeiwb5TJFcohG7CasymGQHKXZXvkn1brawdgnNQmQC3NvOcR4UTOZLJK5jsb7uU8Wh_WYGxEuCBFRy56IyuBQ7N-tnC/s6016/DSC_0966.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAuzv5oWRQFFV85tC1tjxOuLDy_Q4gVzrQOC2G30L21dYzKArMfhPZZ51HdMm4CIdo3Q4SHDhmfO_npe7Tv4AV7Y6xAuQqNWeiwb5TJFcohG7CasymGQHKXZXvkn1brawdgnNQmQC3NvOcR4UTOZLJK5jsb7uU8Wh_WYGxEuCBFRy56IyuBQ7N-tnC/w400-h266/DSC_0966.JPG" width="400" /></a><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Who loves a ride on a little train through the NZ bush? I do!</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Started by
Barry Brickell in 1973 Driving Creek railway in Coromandel Town grew to 3 km of narrow gauge railway track over 22ha
of hilly scrubby land. Barry was also NZs first NZ-born fulltime potter. Driving
Creek Railway opened to the public in 1990.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLA5sDmIyr7svVC3LaXFKKWKknGQJ44fXBMzenC75YnT1iMv385Dituke7KiftWQImE-ogbg1wKNxjtuUfCVhykaABTzb5Hma5KpXjsjkTj3MnPitfEWkye-Os93en1cSnVEIU1hW-Wae_-kX7cwxMbTe2IiX5bRZND7nMoy71ccdkTs6ls8nljK2K/s4588/DSC_0989.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4588" data-original-width="3634" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLA5sDmIyr7svVC3LaXFKKWKknGQJ44fXBMzenC75YnT1iMv385Dituke7KiftWQImE-ogbg1wKNxjtuUfCVhykaABTzb5Hma5KpXjsjkTj3MnPitfEWkye-Os93en1cSnVEIU1hW-Wae_-kX7cwxMbTe2IiX5bRZND7nMoy71ccdkTs6ls8nljK2K/w316-h400/DSC_0989.JPG" width="316" /></a><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">This railway has quite an inspring and impressive history. The land
had to be surveyed to create a route through very rough country. What can be
seen today was done by hand by Barry with local contactors called in to assist with
major earthworks.. There are bridges and viaducts, tunnels and spirals plus five
reversing points required to reach the elevation at Eyeful Tower. Switchbacks added to the original tracks meant that trains could 'turn around' for public tours and an income stream could be added to that of the pottery.<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">This tourist attraction shows just what one person with vision and determination can do. Barry started with the creation of his pottery. A wood-fired stoneware kiln was built. Clay used for potting was and is sourced from this property. He then started the railway, while at the same time putting in incredible efforts to restore the land to native bush. He has certainly succeeded with that. It's a wonderful fresh experience being in the little train as you wind through giant native trees and so many tree ferns. All planted by Barry. The environment has responded to Barry's care by completely regenerating for visitors' delight. I am grateful to see that with the right care, nature can come back within 30 years. </span>Brickell said: "I wanted to demonstrate that you can have engineering in
a rugged landscape and it could be good. Engineering doesn't have to be
ugly." </p><p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-4HDIg5QTH87UIBo4vscP3UD-cT-5E0Nd5ifXUEKVNUJhD9ao4rBUgOdsX_yzkiIQOWZ56qY3-EMuJdfDMr1qGbHHWKXEBz_q6mVo7LgmFL9w4mO3kHvzR9_nV2PH4gfcIvnp34CITHptBMmldFejGG24PotkeFsYnOrBUI4Y--8wJkUj-Tk74MTT/s6016/DSC_0994.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-4HDIg5QTH87UIBo4vscP3UD-cT-5E0Nd5ifXUEKVNUJhD9ao4rBUgOdsX_yzkiIQOWZ56qY3-EMuJdfDMr1qGbHHWKXEBz_q6mVo7LgmFL9w4mO3kHvzR9_nV2PH4gfcIvnp34CITHptBMmldFejGG24PotkeFsYnOrBUI4Y--8wJkUj-Tk74MTT/w400-h266/DSC_0994.JPG" width="400" /></a><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">The significant forest restoration includes a native wildlife sanctuary and a
predator-proof fence. Possum trapping is on-going. I let out a cheer as
we rattled past a possum hanging by its neck from a steel bar on a tree. Ecosystem 1, Aussie terrorist 0.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"> </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Trees
easily identifiable include Kauri, Rimu, Rewarewa, thousands of tree ferns
including our NZ Silver Fern, all planted since 1973.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmc9Hiw2fLseV1u0viw9gj2ffFpK7NQNiKOf6ejYtrj00HY8rv-1-TjJUzKiLEgpiIom2z4PxT4K3HzbRmYfo6i1Qw2BBUi3Gws9buMNUZql7Bpc20RKktnLwhBcMG0xnc89_7-e1b5sPI2-huGseTXey39t0Nu6gvFmYc-pbfI7HfPK3XBPVJaa-w/s6016/DSC_0969.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmc9Hiw2fLseV1u0viw9gj2ffFpK7NQNiKOf6ejYtrj00HY8rv-1-TjJUzKiLEgpiIom2z4PxT4K3HzbRmYfo6i1Qw2BBUi3Gws9buMNUZql7Bpc20RKktnLwhBcMG0xnc89_7-e1b5sPI2-huGseTXey39t0Nu6gvFmYc-pbfI7HfPK3XBPVJaa-w/w400-h266/DSC_0969.JPG" width="400" /></a><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Potters
visit from all over the world as studios and accommodation are available. While I was there a potting class was in progress. I watched in amazement as the most awesone teacher explained what and why he wanted them to do certain things. Concentrating on the 'feel' of what was happening inside their hands, the two students succeeded in turning the clay without unfortunate incidents. He was really awesome and I told him and his class so. You can see them in action. Barry Brickell was good at building kilns. There are several on site, many of them working.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Another feature of note during the train trip is the bottle retainer walls on the hilly sides. They look rather smart in the rain with the glass glistening. There are thousands used for these walls and the precision of placement is remarkable. Our driver told us that barry had put an ad out offering a free train ride to anyone with at least two dozen clean wine bottles to donate. This worked a treat and even today the train drivers are adding to the bottle walls with great pride. In fact, all along the train track passengers can see all sorts of whimsical pottery tucked in amongst ferns and streams. Tunnels are decorated with ceramics too. Each turn seems to have something fun to see, for the sharp-eyed.<br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhfahpElPAT9nPyJcjfhQ3v3UsRs23BuQ3Jm73lbs2eIZXN2raRkTLRZrKLg20paSUnmpcPcVaXT0x45BTSfGqAzTrcsxATG1649FtDyLV3W9CsxAJCtCFrPXJdh6_YpQ0fUvGnQ1YsNoS0Xq0vBHF5oHUaQifMp9CJdGleRfiNpkwqbdPBphANKf-/s6016/DSC_0981.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhfahpElPAT9nPyJcjfhQ3v3UsRs23BuQ3Jm73lbs2eIZXN2raRkTLRZrKLg20paSUnmpcPcVaXT0x45BTSfGqAzTrcsxATG1649FtDyLV3W9CsxAJCtCFrPXJdh6_YpQ0fUvGnQ1YsNoS0Xq0vBHF5oHUaQifMp9CJdGleRfiNpkwqbdPBphANKf-/w640-h426/DSC_0981.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzF_LaBrMIHH6h-HVC8G_m9IvHbeh_0sHoHZuRh63D0XhPP7Ltj4D2khbEHAjsoZUMZq9BBjDyool8SzOcjGqOAuZLcxxeVgKaUU1igrvKRLsxMl5aUQ3FzxUk5u3xhd0FdjAJVazkaRkdSGIFxS2vBW5MUPflgNi5SbWjVgSQKqbPeOxDMMSPZOAT/s6016/DSC_0992.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6016" data-original-width="4000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzF_LaBrMIHH6h-HVC8G_m9IvHbeh_0sHoHZuRh63D0XhPP7Ltj4D2khbEHAjsoZUMZq9BBjDyool8SzOcjGqOAuZLcxxeVgKaUU1igrvKRLsxMl5aUQ3FzxUk5u3xhd0FdjAJVazkaRkdSGIFxS2vBW5MUPflgNi5SbWjVgSQKqbPeOxDMMSPZOAT/w266-h400/DSC_0992.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><p><br />Barry died in 2016 leaving the railway and its bush protected by a QE2 covenant. An additional activity onsite is a zipline canopy tour. it goes very fast and I think it's maybe too fast for tourists to get the feel of the bush while whizzing past it.</p><p>There's some really great further information here..<a href="https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/294797/artist-barry-brickell-dies-aged-80" target="_blank"> https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/294797/artist-barry-brickell-dies-aged-80</a><br /></p><p>Driving
Creek is now a fully charitable organisation and continues to deliver
on Barry’s vision, as detailed in theTrust Charter. Driving Creek
operates two charitable purpose programmes that stem from goals to:</p>
<ul><li>Protect and enhance our natural environment, be a leader and centre
for understanding and contribution to conservation initiatives, and
share our conservation values with our community and visitors.</li><li>Be a leading centre for pottery and ceramic crafts where emerging
potters are actively fostered and visitors share in a unique craft and
creative experience.</li></ul><p class="MsoNormal"></p>
<p></p>Frances Lawsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08107995840713193160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5507816931969163563.post-81148599139373710912022-12-05T11:08:00.000-08:002022-12-05T11:08:21.898-08:00Kaikoura's Classic Car Museum<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYabrREHA670Eop6E-Ow9mkVu2JjOwsdR3LGI0pHOe_y2STJOKE4C-gENCSBx00ggpyx3vvCEKXfX-ztcJsqNB7zMMsjz_F9zWPHzd93mWP3AHx3AFWvCxXEp8yoN38spPCMyUCej55QgH77bIv01cZ_ceMlKxzY6Oupxw98Y4nGb6CjWTV5MQCr2o/s6016/DSC_1079.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYabrREHA670Eop6E-Ow9mkVu2JjOwsdR3LGI0pHOe_y2STJOKE4C-gENCSBx00ggpyx3vvCEKXfX-ztcJsqNB7zMMsjz_F9zWPHzd93mWP3AHx3AFWvCxXEp8yoN38spPCMyUCej55QgH77bIv01cZ_ceMlKxzY6Oupxw98Y4nGb6CjWTV5MQCr2o/w400-h266/DSC_1079.JPG" width="400" /></a> I recently stumbled upon a little treasure in Kaikoura. Feeling in need of a quick bite we pulled up to Bernie's Diner. So much fun (the way Burger King
was once in the long ago past), Every thing was American retro 60s at 105 Beach Rd. </p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh28SCbtZesUzF6FE95dSMA4Bg_zMQTuG4EmH2Vmfoyldxd1N3S8aHcXOnAjTaH67y-eUW1nwrXs97m49q5PfC2ZoHXrAsKDSLa_eAz26keL2NLwoRVlYqfUxmCToGak_GmQ_Nnprx0qd4fQymlxp5wiNZuttrsMxQcInkdT0yyHlj1hD5leT8aD-ob/s6016/DSC_1075.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh28SCbtZesUzF6FE95dSMA4Bg_zMQTuG4EmH2Vmfoyldxd1N3S8aHcXOnAjTaH67y-eUW1nwrXs97m49q5PfC2ZoHXrAsKDSLa_eAz26keL2NLwoRVlYqfUxmCToGak_GmQ_Nnprx0qd4fQymlxp5wiNZuttrsMxQcInkdT0yyHlj1hD5leT8aD-ob/w400-h266/DSC_1075.JPG" width="400" /></a>Ah, those milkshake containers, the little collection of mustard, tomato
sauce and salt on each table. Spotless presentation and the service was
faster than MacDonalds Matamata. I'd done my research and knew there
was another even better reason to be here: Harmon's Classic Car Museum. It was created in 2017 by father and son Geoff and Bernard Harmon with their passion for cars. It remains a private collection.<br /></p><p></p><p>I
was delighted at the range and quality of models from the USA. The
British cars were simply functional and boring though that's all that many of us Kiwis would have had experience of in our youth. The American cars were
plastered with chrome, terrific upholstery, glam and certainly plenty of space.
You'd never fit a parking space these days with those cars. </p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6rHX6N3dX2ZLoqUELVCwvvarucCMlaDw7j6I1Gppsd6TcH1XniIUnNiWkbtYWCnAOpxh1ki779zZqy3qSy-aNQt3GATxZaU88a4L_qvHYz1UXUkc_cabZ4FLC6MYGkLxMHqufCe4QzD7fQItXlZ4KivElVwQdeJQwFM4AJJDX6CaPMqxGiOYTWyzy/s6016/DSC_1097.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6016" data-original-width="4000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6rHX6N3dX2ZLoqUELVCwvvarucCMlaDw7j6I1Gppsd6TcH1XniIUnNiWkbtYWCnAOpxh1ki779zZqy3qSy-aNQt3GATxZaU88a4L_qvHYz1UXUkc_cabZ4FLC6MYGkLxMHqufCe4QzD7fQItXlZ4KivElVwQdeJQwFM4AJJDX6CaPMqxGiOYTWyzy/w266-h400/DSC_1097.JPG" width="266" /></a>Such big boots with luggage space, full size spare tyres you can easily get to, bench seats - younger generations will never know how exciting those could be. It was great to see under the hood of some of the models and be able to recognise various components. In my younger days I could change a tyre, change fuses and spark plugs, fill the radiator and window washer reservoir. Things look simpler now but in reality are much more complicated these days with everything dependent on electronics. </p><p>Inside an annex were some interesting displays of unrestored cars, a classic caravan used back in the 60s and 70s, a huge stationwagon for beach holidays complemented with a diorama, a boat and even old petrol pumps. I still remember my father filling up the car with Caltex boron. Nothing lead-free back then. My parents started out with an old Singer and then progressed to Mum having a Humber and Dad a Mark 4 Zephyr. Alas the Zephyr rolled with a caravan during high winds on a hilly road while my parents were on holiday and was badly damaged. My father, who was driving, was quite battered too but cars were pretty solid in those days. He drove it home with a stoved in roof and the windscreen held to the car by ropes. </p><p> American cars were hard to come by so NZ was pretty much British automobiles until Japanese imports made their presence felt and greater reliability was a blessing, along with the reduced price tag.<br /></p><p></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj0JR0wW6AhviLVGy8hv8aGiCVdvp8OF1VaxrsQo051LJ3mT11vVyr-PALJ__8P62koIW9xMKQ8W5W0EB61rpZerzkM6AAYBc3EH1mPSKF_TQS_PPwnhPcLwklZXp4MC_iUblr0C05wV_G3Cc6ePJdSiO2a9GejBEjcHGFoE1k_etj3JkxcL5UUFVR/s6016/DSC_1065.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6016" data-original-width="4000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj0JR0wW6AhviLVGy8hv8aGiCVdvp8OF1VaxrsQo051LJ3mT11vVyr-PALJ__8P62koIW9xMKQ8W5W0EB61rpZerzkM6AAYBc3EH1mPSKF_TQS_PPwnhPcLwklZXp4MC_iUblr0C05wV_G3Cc6ePJdSiO2a9GejBEjcHGFoE1k_etj3JkxcL5UUFVR/s320/DSC_1065.JPG" width="213" /></a></p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKSBruZ3PoNXUjG6PcsVCALrWhYCMO698DZpaS18PgRUy70-OqqMPigywgUY-xrHd5dE_plPP_JbKK5Q4Q_Hqw-BWA1IXd4BCcsY6zV18o0-G61NXhv20CgUiTClyoZA2N4DlI76K7E5fhlEukE-2lRngCUgeTu9dedr6fEsbtKohKS5vPrKYLXagK/s6016/DSC_1078.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKSBruZ3PoNXUjG6PcsVCALrWhYCMO698DZpaS18PgRUy70-OqqMPigywgUY-xrHd5dE_plPP_JbKK5Q4Q_Hqw-BWA1IXd4BCcsY6zV18o0-G61NXhv20CgUiTClyoZA2N4DlI76K7E5fhlEukE-2lRngCUgeTu9dedr6fEsbtKohKS5vPrKYLXagK/s320/DSC_1078.JPG" width="320" /></a>There were additional items included in the museum: old petrol-powered bikes from the 20s, a Vespa scooter, a beautiful terracotta-coloured bike with sidecar and old traffic cop bikes. These were before the traffic division was assimilated by the police. Honda was the preferred brand and I remember them well though I never had any 'personal' dealings with them.<br /><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzTdFQgKNg4BUerpiTnSfYGojpUINyJfuV4ryxfxm7_d9ct7jzTtRt0MMZO7LFIPJkqFjYNNQxkY5VzxmtEx6hjFhmqCMBNZQT6EX81VcPI7TGxlfxbDz01QFcLytivvBlWa2LXCYR3q7oW6ggqhYxk7JYgkBqJy8azitLxt-g61m7P9uhuqCX568R/s6016/DSC_1073.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6016" data-original-width="4000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzTdFQgKNg4BUerpiTnSfYGojpUINyJfuV4ryxfxm7_d9ct7jzTtRt0MMZO7LFIPJkqFjYNNQxkY5VzxmtEx6hjFhmqCMBNZQT6EX81VcPI7TGxlfxbDz01QFcLytivvBlWa2LXCYR3q7oW6ggqhYxk7JYgkBqJy8azitLxt-g61m7P9uhuqCX568R/w266-h400/DSC_1073.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>In a side wing could be found a Trash Fashion display of some of the winning entries since 2001. Trash Fashion is Kaikoura's premier entertainment event. The outfits are all from recycled trash which might be toilet paper or aluminium can rings, fabric or plastic twisties for bread, to name a few elements.<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGYXDJyFTApTyBjEiqjOfjrOYTHlOS5kWLKYKPXi53fYKUy9CVPvZguu2sjimz7hPGq3-o6ETBkNhDBrvLjScF6g_NvkPpQpMb4HwQHCPQ1xDUvPzrgGoud7TzILhN6PoAcM2ibVUhic90H99snKudLX9H2U-BksdIf22uRn6M3DmB8xLfJIpCN_b_/s6016/DSC_1071.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6016" data-original-width="4000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGYXDJyFTApTyBjEiqjOfjrOYTHlOS5kWLKYKPXi53fYKUy9CVPvZguu2sjimz7hPGq3-o6ETBkNhDBrvLjScF6g_NvkPpQpMb4HwQHCPQ1xDUvPzrgGoud7TzILhN6PoAcM2ibVUhic90H99snKudLX9H2U-BksdIf22uRn6M3DmB8xLfJIpCN_b_/w266-h400/DSC_1071.JPG" width="266" /></a></p><p></p><p>The museum includes a scaled replica of the West End of the main street of Kaikoura as it was at least 70 years ago. Included are some of the important buildings that are now gone.</p><p>Once back in the diner you can buy car-centric merchandise.</p><p>I had a lot of fun here remembering my own past with cars and motorbikes, family jaunts and asociated other memories..</p><p></p><p>It's open 7 days a week for breakfast and lunch, doughnuts and milkshakes, burgers and coffee. <a href="www.harmons.co.nz " target="_blank">www.harmons.co.nz <br /></a></p><p></p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmocD3ihISsSHeliu9KjwUwEKdzwLguwVLPzk2QypLxIunhgf_sf3TlpH2dm89MNNLgssYvJNzBoNjA9pVfjDsxUh2HSgoBjDS9cOzc8zLJDMnBO9sxoUVosyo09Hx591kc11_ahCuF0UZTFM07ASaRzi-L3Pv1ImEXfK35NRLYjs2vnee8rT8vrG5/s6016/DSC_1092.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2n1_Rf3lNLJgd8uW_MQDCAsb68HgPeaLKusi5Uu4jxpkbRvdzRp6aAHFNX6al1EEgShu8_76Wjl3yG0lsFUq5Q0zUbESPg6jJSPsDZXsOCOZsXRZABkdy25tZtwvwwA05mlCeLB-ByYqoxYde0WGaZ-GLaVL1WwMogo7CLWS__nLa6CFvY82g4WCF/s6016/DSC_1094.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2n1_Rf3lNLJgd8uW_MQDCAsb68HgPeaLKusi5Uu4jxpkbRvdzRp6aAHFNX6al1EEgShu8_76Wjl3yG0lsFUq5Q0zUbESPg6jJSPsDZXsOCOZsXRZABkdy25tZtwvwwA05mlCeLB-ByYqoxYde0WGaZ-GLaVL1WwMogo7CLWS__nLa6CFvY82g4WCF/w640-h426/DSC_1094.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOdg4dcce0vWoJtePxU6AcIbK1VUZ0MCvNXKs-18r0yA6PSfgByP2gdhW8CufgaSXZYJY_Mn_1SMDQXfzNqk_A257Gsx93xCEU80Wc2DWz-MOMe8M86SObiI34TxmrWHHlWr0RyFLz6el37M56E8VDbcA2k--7XKGJUjr7gFShHNgGn-I532i7rwky/s6016/DSC_1096.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOdg4dcce0vWoJtePxU6AcIbK1VUZ0MCvNXKs-18r0yA6PSfgByP2gdhW8CufgaSXZYJY_Mn_1SMDQXfzNqk_A257Gsx93xCEU80Wc2DWz-MOMe8M86SObiI34TxmrWHHlWr0RyFLz6el37M56E8VDbcA2k--7XKGJUjr7gFShHNgGn-I532i7rwky/w640-h426/DSC_1096.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1xmrgvHJpqgggZluZI2fog7OEbX3w6zrfc4ywh_t34eE4jeLKL2kcGqWXiS-UpBgZPwDFr71uiK_BkoyRIB4ew4gbjBuyZGYmr_dIxRW12F-dMSVbGx2nJ5rsla4Os4o9NSJo0f26pwCGLQLcfTTAX7S5Lt3_jBhnYF5aEPY-1B-TragWCupCfscb/s5869/DSC_1099.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3388" data-original-width="5869" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1xmrgvHJpqgggZluZI2fog7OEbX3w6zrfc4ywh_t34eE4jeLKL2kcGqWXiS-UpBgZPwDFr71uiK_BkoyRIB4ew4gbjBuyZGYmr_dIxRW12F-dMSVbGx2nJ5rsla4Os4o9NSJo0f26pwCGLQLcfTTAX7S5Lt3_jBhnYF5aEPY-1B-TragWCupCfscb/w640-h370/DSC_1099.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNTpmMD4zfvxsgEPw7TAjf8cF2xai1sg7sGYKfWyW3Fi2aHMoGM3w2rpRNqac_UZguWMm22ZLczFDBC_wTRqgREgwzeFsauP9AIS4NQaZrCWYwXItNUv2-Seo3YnXwu6TlmQPBzm4XYmjkscDz3M0m22l93ePsrBZ09Fdqg6de2Y1TLAoiPmCN9PvU/s6016/DSC_1063.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNTpmMD4zfvxsgEPw7TAjf8cF2xai1sg7sGYKfWyW3Fi2aHMoGM3w2rpRNqac_UZguWMm22ZLczFDBC_wTRqgREgwzeFsauP9AIS4NQaZrCWYwXItNUv2-Seo3YnXwu6TlmQPBzm4XYmjkscDz3M0m22l93ePsrBZ09Fdqg6de2Y1TLAoiPmCN9PvU/w640-h426/DSC_1063.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p></p>Frances Lawsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08107995840713193160noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5507816931969163563.post-6280793234684264342022-11-11T14:31:00.006-08:002022-12-04T22:07:01.380-08:00 Medicine drives me nuclear<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigeI1yJXby1izOKonRazbj0U2FDW_d8ViPdSX7xQzfu6fDXNasf31x9pM_MCXoK-bi9I3MXN2-IIvTYoU1yb1JfYCbZD2lqwu4v7qB9-qR24H-dwFxT6TEeh9vhOHvlhDg5gCy8QbgNwFzJf7LnBoPqOpHx4hzgtnPBUvEG5cgKPHMNeJZThcHSvbH/s889/23188-thyroid-2.webp" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="889" data-original-width="800" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigeI1yJXby1izOKonRazbj0U2FDW_d8ViPdSX7xQzfu6fDXNasf31x9pM_MCXoK-bi9I3MXN2-IIvTYoU1yb1JfYCbZD2lqwu4v7qB9-qR24H-dwFxT6TEeh9vhOHvlhDg5gCy8QbgNwFzJf7LnBoPqOpHx4hzgtnPBUvEG5cgKPHMNeJZThcHSvbH/w360-h400/23188-thyroid-2.webp" width="360" /></a>Medecines are developed to treat medical problems but they can have some pretty nasty side effects. We know this but often doctors simply do what they are used to prescribing and give little thought to consequences, or hope for the best further down the line. If we are in an acute situation, such as open heart surgery, we don't know what later effects medicines may have as doctors don't tell us.</p><p>Six weeks after two open heart surgeries I was back in the hospital because the mountain of medicines I was expected to take was wrecking my gastrointestinal system. Doctors ummed and ahhed as to what might be causing my pain symptoms and nausea but it was me, the patient, who ended up nudging their considerations into medicine issues. I was proven right after 2/3 of my meds were discontinued or dosages reduced and I finally started to get better. </p><p>I thought I was past the worst and that from now on I would only improve but five months after surgery I felt I was sliding backward with massive palpitations, fatigue, two instances of nearly losing conciousness while doing moderate exercise. I found myself spending more time on the sofa and had to give up my exercise classes at the sports centre and the aquatic centre. By the time I was seven months post-op I knew I had better alert my GP. Blood tests were done</p><p>They came back abnormal for thyroid function and very low vitamin D (which was surprising for a gardener like myself), In future I will cover up a bit less when outside. It's a fine line for we spritely elders getting enough UV for Vitamin D production and too much UV leading to skin cancer. I was now hyperthyroid with the associated heart symptoms.<br /></p><p>Further tests ruled out Graves disease which is autoimmune. Specialists revealed my thyroid troubles had been caused by <b>Amiodorone</b>, a powerful antiarhythmia drug which can cause damage long after it is discontinued as its mega-iodine effect stays in the human body for up to a year, causing havoc in some of us. Key consequences can be a stuffed up thyoid, heart damage, osteoporosis and even pulmonary fibrosis, a terminal lung condition whereby you die within weeks, months but certainly within three years. There is a class action law suit forming in the US against this drug due to the nasty side effects.<br /></p><p>I may have dodged a bullet as that second hospital stay saw Amiodorone discontinued though clearly the effects are with me. At least I have minimised the length of time I was on it. It's very worrying for patients when something like this comes out of the blue, the fault of a drug prescribed by doctors.</p><p>I am now on another medicine to help my thyroid normalise but we have to be careful in case it tips my thyroid into becoming hypo and thus requiring lifelong medication. Sheesh! My thyroid needed further investigation and since there is a 4 month waiting list for the thyroid clinic I was pleased they were taking things seriously. So I agreed to go radioactive as part of a diagnostic scan using molecular medicine. Christchurch Hospital receives a canister of the preferred radioactive isotope once a week and it is preprepared into the correct testing doses.<br /></p><p><span class="ILfuVd" lang="en"><span class="hgKElc">Nuclear medicine uses
radioactive material inside the body to see how organs or tissue are
functioning (for diagnosis) or to target and destroy damaged or diseased
organs or tissue (for treatment).</span></span></p><span class="ILfuVd" lang="en"><span class="hgKElc"></span></span><p></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgkd87F4_0d9li2FPLnaa9eCln1oiEjfv_mqSgE_p8pBanutTF2VIdrxtrHCOIXSuPF0r6EhfW9Wfya17TUEdzHss3aijireHvXCChYjcgmCVl-2jOjGhmXo_a6PV3XZmhBKkfuuK54aGf78uGdykW5IQmx2dgt0U71iFLGnifHuz80B_5NzsByCfw/s2178/4902-nuclear-medicine-imaging-2.webp" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1710" data-original-width="2178" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgkd87F4_0d9li2FPLnaa9eCln1oiEjfv_mqSgE_p8pBanutTF2VIdrxtrHCOIXSuPF0r6EhfW9Wfya17TUEdzHss3aijireHvXCChYjcgmCVl-2jOjGhmXo_a6PV3XZmhBKkfuuK54aGf78uGdykW5IQmx2dgt0U71iFLGnifHuz80B_5NzsByCfw/s320/4902-nuclear-medicine-imaging-2.webp" width="320" /></a>Unlike x-rays, CT and MRI scans that give structural information,
Nuclear Medicine imaging demonstrates the function of an organ or organ
system by monitoring the passage, accumulation or excretion of a
radiopharmaceutical (a radioactive pharmaceutical).</p>
<p>To perform a Nuclear Medicine scan, the radiopharmaceutical is first
administered to the patient, usually intravenously. Depending on the
type of scan, the pictures may be taken immediately and/or after a
period of time during which the pharmaceutical localises in the target
organ or system.</p>
<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8CbbLGg4VqsyUC5ieGxYimp_0zCxYv8YuICSPbbZknM9c-1VYhF_shVxR66ful1rTXu5W1q1pztVE-cl8_TCYuONgbvqGbz2rvoFIVFzx5Yw1jP_MqGYe8xZlD9y-fe_-p2mLVqD9a_or-KObkw8IIq6WDIyiWsVMTF5DWxRSa0TGD4Y6_X1k-STL/s995/Thyroid_scan.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="974" data-original-width="995" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8CbbLGg4VqsyUC5ieGxYimp_0zCxYv8YuICSPbbZknM9c-1VYhF_shVxR66ful1rTXu5W1q1pztVE-cl8_TCYuONgbvqGbz2rvoFIVFzx5Yw1jP_MqGYe8xZlD9y-fe_-p2mLVqD9a_or-KObkw8IIq6WDIyiWsVMTF5DWxRSa0TGD4Y6_X1k-STL/s320/Thyroid_scan.jpg" width="320" /></a>Thyroid scanning is a well established test for evaluating many thyroid
diseases.
The thyroid scan aids in the evaluation of hyperthyroidism by
demonstrating findings that differentiate Graves' disease, toxic
adenoma, toxic multinodular goitre and thyroiditis. </p><ul><li>
<p>Following an IV injection of <sup>99m</sup>Tc-Pertechnetate, there is a waiting time of approx. 30 minutes, Apart from the needle, it doesn't hurt. <span class="ILfuVd" lang="en"><span class="hgKElc">This radioactive product will concentrate in the thyroid gland. </span></span><span class="ILfuVd" lang="en"><span class="hgKElc"></span></span>Pertechnetate is excreted in breast milk, so breastfeeding women are
advised to express and discard breast milk for 26 hours after injection.
</p></li><li>
<p>The scan takes approx. 10 minutes to complete. I had a 2 minute one, followed by a 4 minute one. I was not allowed to swallow during the scan.</p><p>After a few hours, certainly after a day, I am no longer radioactive. The scan confirms I have drug-induced thyroiditis. With careful medicine correction I hope to eventually get back to normal.</p><p>Don't take those regular blood test checkups lightly. They can reveal problems that can't always be seen. Stay vigilant and be your own advocate.<br /></p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3yfdXzZ6Uu0">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3yfdXzZ6Uu0</a> Hyperthyroidism vs hypothyroidism in detail</p><br /><br /><br /><p></p>
</li></ul><p> </p><p><span class="ILfuVd" lang="en"><span class="hgKElc"> </span></span></p>Frances Lawsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08107995840713193160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5507816931969163563.post-43808670082854086092022-10-05T16:09:00.003-07:002022-10-05T16:09:55.393-07:00Quilting makes feelings tangible and dreams reality<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp0EiAsu9tvJR3t500rE9x5mZgHVfRH3c84SjtuC7X5HFdIqaUH4zQ-2CTjQbHGlurnhZQAf9LMK13Z0croVoOozDJwl7vC3E2RCzl1t2wjflEqkU_TSlUkWsa-FtIJFCE_GhwGS3FZzkSyoa5-qSKchYSqQN8vQT2L43LlnlOLjHTewPvcJ3oRM0B/s4186/DSC_1679.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3623" data-original-width="4186" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp0EiAsu9tvJR3t500rE9x5mZgHVfRH3c84SjtuC7X5HFdIqaUH4zQ-2CTjQbHGlurnhZQAf9LMK13Z0croVoOozDJwl7vC3E2RCzl1t2wjflEqkU_TSlUkWsa-FtIJFCE_GhwGS3FZzkSyoa5-qSKchYSqQN8vQT2L43LlnlOLjHTewPvcJ3oRM0B/w400-h346/DSC_1679.JPG" width="400" /></a><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">In an old
nineteenth century schoolhouse at Fernside, Canterbury is a woman and her quilting
studio providing consolation, celebration and inspiration for fellow New
Zealanders and overseas clients. Patchworks, quilts, bags and special
commissions all jostle for Verina Thirlwell’s passionate attention. The
rhythmic clonk and whirr of the Bernina sewing machine is stitching together
thoughts, feelings and hopes in a way that heals, excites and creates community.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">She listens
to others people’s hurt and needs and allows her creativity to guide her in
creating unique stitched items that give joy. It’s a magical place.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Patchwork
and quilting are increasingly popular in New Zealand but few quilters achieve the
results Verina does.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="e24kjd"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Patchwork</span>
is a work, such as a blanket, composed of many <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">different</span> colours and shapes, sewn together to make an interesting
whole.</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="e24kjd"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Quilting</span>
is patterned stitching creating bed coverings, art wall hangings, clothing, and
a variety of textile products. It can be done by hand, via a sewing machine, or
by a specialized long-arm <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">quilting</span>
system.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="e24kjd"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The
process</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyhgt9M7zjvdbG5OImZnRnzmDTTxNIZTA-_ope3gdP2P_JHdlbJrCoaCrS6ohJGcBCnRdeodBWJBRz33UXjo6eLkJluMV2FGMOaqjbZOhWhttWG5jEaaMaXMi2Ew7sdMK09vOWmLPDwhKZsWea-ZeDTY64-jx1f-Kw-JadN5voBn0iKZ6ZlruIUUkS/s6016/DSC_1674.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyhgt9M7zjvdbG5OImZnRnzmDTTxNIZTA-_ope3gdP2P_JHdlbJrCoaCrS6ohJGcBCnRdeodBWJBRz33UXjo6eLkJluMV2FGMOaqjbZOhWhttWG5jEaaMaXMi2Ew7sdMK09vOWmLPDwhKZsWea-ZeDTY64-jx1f-Kw-JadN5voBn0iKZ6ZlruIUUkS/w400-h266/DSC_1674.JPG" width="400" /></a><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Fabric, or
patchworks, brought to Verina’s quilting studio is laid out on the work bench and
there follows a discussion on quilting styles, patterns and variables. The client
usually chooses the backing they want. </span><span class="e24kjd">Verina then
sketches up a design and provides a timeframe. Most clients leave the creative
process to her and are then presented with the finished work of art.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKl6QVodf9wgLP26dTjim1WEYOqYP5agrfjfR-zNryi0y3YERqkfrN4AkIq77wt-aOUkOK0V_I4rnyBESgT-J6e856Af-l36bXUH1kLK4uswY4uazLqTeTz9LWBsry4eAddyCsHLbyBUwzOH1lx5ImURfWgiiRoX9dBVJsUcLBm-WRFuEZV4XxZbAd/s6016/DSC_1685.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKl6QVodf9wgLP26dTjim1WEYOqYP5agrfjfR-zNryi0y3YERqkfrN4AkIq77wt-aOUkOK0V_I4rnyBESgT-J6e856Af-l36bXUH1kLK4uswY4uazLqTeTz9LWBsry4eAddyCsHLbyBUwzOH1lx5ImURfWgiiRoX9dBVJsUcLBm-WRFuEZV4XxZbAd/w400-h266/DSC_1685.JPG" width="400" /></a><span class="e24kjd">Layers are built up while seeking balance
in the composition. Where memory quilts are concerned, rather than bed quilts,
she adds trims or decorative stitches. She adds depth and texture to the work
by adding in hand embroidery or hand </span><span class="e24kjd">quilting. This can emphasise a special
piece that has major importance as the eye is drawn to the detail.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">What she
enjoys the most is being given free rein on the style of quilting but it is the
joy on a client’s face that is the most satisfying aspect for Verina. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">“That’s
exactly what I wanted. You’ve done the impossible- turned a sow’s ear into a
silk purse,” enthused a happy client.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Another
said “I wanted a stitchery. Verina’s talent adds value to my work. She’s
consistent, reliable and she makes sure her quilting never takes over my
stitchery.”</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Sometimes
she receives special commissions where she has to create the patchwork and then
quilt it. Her service might extend to going shopping with clients to find
suitable materials that they like but 95% of the time clients bring in their
own patchworks to be quilted.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Clients
come mostly from Canterbury, but also further afield from Marlborough/Nelson,
the North Island and even Indonesia.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDXwJlBzxZY800pA3jEdhToSXiHnU-_X1W44lD9fx7vyOb83UxuOfCbfGRuT7Cg3otvN-ed1kgbiArfnCCyBIlaPuVnSdwW-aBObUHjMIB-JCgVpEzPYguIYHIaDDZPyKZsGaQl7zUcSj7PEyaVKptIVpPEol0Izc_-x-klJvU0PF6BtrgSQdeQkcB/s3737/DSC_1663.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3737" data-original-width="3700" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDXwJlBzxZY800pA3jEdhToSXiHnU-_X1W44lD9fx7vyOb83UxuOfCbfGRuT7Cg3otvN-ed1kgbiArfnCCyBIlaPuVnSdwW-aBObUHjMIB-JCgVpEzPYguIYHIaDDZPyKZsGaQl7zUcSj7PEyaVKptIVpPEol0Izc_-x-klJvU0PF6BtrgSQdeQkcB/w396-h400/DSC_1663.JPG" width="396" /></a><span class="e24kjd"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Making
memorial cushions </b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">These very
special, unique designs are constructed from elements supplied by customers,
which are sentimental and hold great meaning, often being representative of
loved ones who have died.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="e24kjd">Firstly, Verina lays out the fabrics,
trims, buttons, beads and any other materials to cover a foundation fabric. She
usually collects the materials first before thinking of the design. If the
cushion is a collaboration between her and the client, they discuss the
collection of elements and their significance and importance they have. She
then sketches a design and provides a timeframe. Verina employs her creative
processes and later presents them as the finished work.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuU2MBKpsVMmt2BQMkgmd1-oNLtw1PN2CmdNAGbhKUh8wAzNdFPgt6sXl8IFgdTotV5Y16gt09Y6mtNoLYQXTpf5gsPJeEzQylck6fXNDsr8WiqiRR40Yg54pUD39FRU4V0q1MET-AYh5jXdzKtbyClGCLpFHDmxlqoF4o1ag7DQ0vKmYUagsLzg3i/s4071/DSC_1662.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3737" data-original-width="4071" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuU2MBKpsVMmt2BQMkgmd1-oNLtw1PN2CmdNAGbhKUh8wAzNdFPgt6sXl8IFgdTotV5Y16gt09Y6mtNoLYQXTpf5gsPJeEzQylck6fXNDsr8WiqiRR40Yg54pUD39FRU4V0q1MET-AYh5jXdzKtbyClGCLpFHDmxlqoF4o1ag7DQ0vKmYUagsLzg3i/w400-h368/DSC_1662.JPG" width="400" /></a><span class="e24kjd">Quite a number of clients appreciate the
tactile connection they gain through hugging memorial cushions. The fabrics
used all have special meaning; designs </span><span class="e24kjd">can recall past happy times, and
personal embellishments such as beads and jewellery bring memories of the
departed back into everyday life.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="e24kjd">Men enjoy receiving a personalised
cushion for birthdays or retirements, or perhaps recognising a special
achievement.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="e24kjd"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">A
haven of tranquillity</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="e24kjd">The studio has been described as a refuge
and retreat for those who have had trauma in their lives. A calm atmosphere
pervades there that has nothing to do with Verina. No doubt it’s the rural
setting, the sense of history and continuation which seeps from the walls of
the old Springbank schoolhouse. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyi83s5a8VEGdIhkPpHNj1RYLk8kE2D3X0qApsCgIhp_Kko2SCfBDV-1czDl3MAacWqLTjvr9qcG0FTkP1Sn1OeGHLKGLf0aonDaXSMmMBn8a2AG7hMdgZAkVfRAhXPJL3NV14eRBTiWz7T3gi56WEV3dRNQYT81sr3rmXp0xOCjzgFDnWcZw53slr/s4508/DSC_1657.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3902" data-original-width="4508" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyi83s5a8VEGdIhkPpHNj1RYLk8kE2D3X0qApsCgIhp_Kko2SCfBDV-1czDl3MAacWqLTjvr9qcG0FTkP1Sn1OeGHLKGLf0aonDaXSMmMBn8a2AG7hMdgZAkVfRAhXPJL3NV14eRBTiWz7T3gi56WEV3dRNQYT81sr3rmXp0xOCjzgFDnWcZw53slr/w400-h346/DSC_1657.JPG" width="400" /></a><span class="e24kjd">There’s even a pair of chairs and an art
</span><span class="e24kjd">deco daybed near the gas fire, intended as an area to sit and host clients but
often the space is filled with works in progress or completed items awaiting
collection.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="e24kjd">Confidentiality is important and clients
know that they can be open and free to say what they want, without judgement.
Verina’s empathy encourages clients to open up about what matters to them in
each commission, large or small. Sometimes grief takes time to evolve to a
point where clients feel ready to have clothing from the departed made into a
quilt. The finished quilt can turn grief into joy and celebration of a life
well-lived and person well-loved.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7LNWqRRv0Jgho_-JIyllsyuJVVpjeA2BltRSgoSzxHPuHaJarLZnGK7x6iK5SV0eORml5NNICAsQ9VQbpVhZhnrbu9wp6qKefHUqjw3HBZc9kpMJ6yZ2njaVVo_IBJHZHaiR5WB2xpmz_btyz-aXkB1x8RPSW3IiDVCutBr4dMe_0fvaPOw-tZ-yD/s4804/DSC_1655a.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3984" data-original-width="4804" height="331" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7LNWqRRv0Jgho_-JIyllsyuJVVpjeA2BltRSgoSzxHPuHaJarLZnGK7x6iK5SV0eORml5NNICAsQ9VQbpVhZhnrbu9wp6qKefHUqjw3HBZc9kpMJ6yZ2njaVVo_IBJHZHaiR5WB2xpmz_btyz-aXkB1x8RPSW3IiDVCutBr4dMe_0fvaPOw-tZ-yD/w400-h331/DSC_1655a.JPG" width="400" /></a><span class="e24kjd">The studio is also the venue for quilting
classes. Twice weekly 6-8 students learn the art of quilting. The trusty
Bernina sewing machine is always ready to go and there’s plenty of space on the
large cutting table. Some students consider their lessons life-savers. The
meetings give members something to look forward to, therapy and good company.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="e24kjd">The schoolhouse was also the venue for a
group of volunteers who, led by Verina, gave of their time and money to produce
a great many charity patchwork quilts to give to the families of the Mosque attack
victims in Christchurch 2019. Waltham School distributed them.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="e24kjd">The quilting studio is the main focus of
the business but Verina also enjoys the more creative side of using old
clothes, doilies, laces and trims to make something beautiful; be it a cushion,
sewing case, or to decorate an item of clothing. The latter work is fiddly and
will probably never supersede the quilting but she’ll take on almost anything.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX95fWb5LO5JmMfMMyTFRJB_DaJTTTyFqfVZt9prqQgRYyRM7wmahR9NGxwIKy5TkgPs7pfK9K-mZrXyaVpnIv2nwNFjGvE5qGShAN396NFVc26Z-U8n2cHXVWTwTKEXRMRTZSiAR5Hs8JytByULcVuBAzdRVMnj52X7TVBb0FHnbMSjp60YQeXbmc/s2560/20200311_094025.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="2560" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX95fWb5LO5JmMfMMyTFRJB_DaJTTTyFqfVZt9prqQgRYyRM7wmahR9NGxwIKy5TkgPs7pfK9K-mZrXyaVpnIv2nwNFjGvE5qGShAN396NFVc26Z-U8n2cHXVWTwTKEXRMRTZSiAR5Hs8JytByULcVuBAzdRVMnj52X7TVBb0FHnbMSjp60YQeXbmc/w400-h225/20200311_094025.jpg" width="400" /></a><span class="e24kjd"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Creative
challenges</b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="e24kjd">Recently she accepted a new challenge:
working on a large tapestry from France. It had been unmounted, dry-cleaned and
posted to NZ, which had pulled it out of shape. It needed to be turned into a
wall hanging in a French-styled house in Canterbury. Verina went so far as to
pin it to the carpet in her dining room, blocked out as squarely as possible,
while it dried back into shape. It was then lined and made ready to take pride
of place in the client’s home, reminding her of her love of France and French
history.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="e24kjd">This talented seamstress created a teddy
bear for a young girl, from the girl’s departed grandmother’s dressing gown.
She added photographs on fabric of the girl and her grandma to the paw pads for
a special touch. The finished result impressed the girl’s parents and moved the
little girl emotionally as now she can cuddle and talk to the bear in a
spiritual connection with her Grandma.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="e24kjd">Verina once made a teddy bear for a
wedding that was made from scraps of the wedding dress she had made for a
client. Beaded and embroidered, he sat on the back shelf of the bridal car and
then on the cake table.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXePqO17aX8MqeKBmYiEG83BK7tAJYQEJRRxa3xSzqD-Rl5WTZkKOEvBBBYzXGMop9t2llCzi1lOuJbhcLp010cd3IIIi00Vfq8X1nGdd7CZ-YPVLeN8YCVNnVxDw3TzD0znvF3ntZsGdbSgsJWvy1j7WoEejOf8cIR7IykbuTCn04zmPlhHpgnrIo/s6016/DSC_1669.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXePqO17aX8MqeKBmYiEG83BK7tAJYQEJRRxa3xSzqD-Rl5WTZkKOEvBBBYzXGMop9t2llCzi1lOuJbhcLp010cd3IIIi00Vfq8X1nGdd7CZ-YPVLeN8YCVNnVxDw3TzD0znvF3ntZsGdbSgsJWvy1j7WoEejOf8cIR7IykbuTCn04zmPlhHpgnrIo/w400-h266/DSC_1669.JPG" width="400" /></a><span class="e24kjd"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Quilts
can be very happy celebrations too </b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="e24kjd">The birth of a new baby, or a birthday or
wedding anniversary can be the inspiration for a new quilt. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGOlOM614IjNZa7e5UOe-RhM-hvhDIL64_PusPwCv8nWbcGgUZ6xUYRl_zFMsUK5wjkqBTeWTi9CY0plsF9h1V6Vhz1Dg8HNU2XbGnMGVI0VBKhTGTVyi_-KTU_mdT-m8MC_v_9Ur0j2tFtcIzjQtLaJWdj2h_TSw1nUMl6tV_lr3qgYmriV_J_7EE/s6016/DSC_1677.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGOlOM614IjNZa7e5UOe-RhM-hvhDIL64_PusPwCv8nWbcGgUZ6xUYRl_zFMsUK5wjkqBTeWTi9CY0plsF9h1V6Vhz1Dg8HNU2XbGnMGVI0VBKhTGTVyi_-KTU_mdT-m8MC_v_9Ur0j2tFtcIzjQtLaJWdj2h_TSw1nUMl6tV_lr3qgYmriV_J_7EE/w400-h266/DSC_1677.JPG" width="400" /></a><span class="e24kjd">Quilts are also made to be read, to
inspire and to express feelings: handwritten comments can be added to the
fabric. Bags are quilted and beaded for weddings or special anniversaries.
Verina even created a unique quilt for herself to celebrate her own 50<sup>th</sup>
birthday. She requested family and friends to send her a patchwork block or piece
of fabric rather than a card or present. The resulting </span><span class="e24kjd">memories sewn into the
quilt remind her how blessed she is to have such lovely people in her life. The
range of fabrics, blocks and feelings were as varied as her friends and
continue to give her great delight.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="e24kjd">Perhaps we should all have a memories box
where we can put special objects away, and when we have enough, send them off
to be turned into wonderful remembrances as quilts, bags, table linen and clothing.
It puts a new turn on reuse or recycle but these beautiful objects can become
family or personal heirlooms and give joy for decades to come.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Verina’s journey</span></b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Y431Y7RkJJ6teMdWqtolmJcY9HfQRWIJPDOWVf-zrH7ugVeXFDKNbIGLM1hVrtXU0NptRUhg5XXSfxGii0IvOKRkI50jEgvHKwRKrSCag-BRkmbPMPose6XZp0nzzWkDGqKDobtd7M3FmH1j9rNxhIxbMTcIqkNpD_2zSV6Duajkm73EKo1hn9bz/s5147/DSC_1658a.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3902" data-original-width="5147" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Y431Y7RkJJ6teMdWqtolmJcY9HfQRWIJPDOWVf-zrH7ugVeXFDKNbIGLM1hVrtXU0NptRUhg5XXSfxGii0IvOKRkI50jEgvHKwRKrSCag-BRkmbPMPose6XZp0nzzWkDGqKDobtd7M3FmH1j9rNxhIxbMTcIqkNpD_2zSV6Duajkm73EKo1hn9bz/w400-h304/DSC_1658a.JPG" width="400" /></a></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Verina made
her first patchwork when she was just 12 years old. Maybe it was encouragement
from her granny who was a tailoress. She started with English paper piercing
which consists of hexagonal paper templates and is very traditional. Nowadays
almost anything goes.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Her work
evolved into patchwork shapes to make a ‘block’. Blocks are repeating patterns,
like tiles. What she once did with hand stitching is now done by machine.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiscYE9DgG-8I4lOm1G-R0lf-2F3nIqOX4dh5pN0Ta-vlGzop1s4xqGNeFxrMWEppCzneWreynhlWiCXXiZ4aylkpznqiA6LP0Om-A6yw6-SSccRlLP7IfYx6Zn-lQBB7n12uaRWqo4zwmZVP4KLPl6mnXSBSqxDk578UTfl9-TPoycrJJxgQQQz5Jv/s2560/20180625_080201.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1440" data-original-width="2560" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiscYE9DgG-8I4lOm1G-R0lf-2F3nIqOX4dh5pN0Ta-vlGzop1s4xqGNeFxrMWEppCzneWreynhlWiCXXiZ4aylkpznqiA6LP0Om-A6yw6-SSccRlLP7IfYx6Zn-lQBB7n12uaRWqo4zwmZVP4KLPl6mnXSBSqxDk578UTfl9-TPoycrJJxgQQQz5Jv/w400-h225/20180625_080201.jpg" width="400" /></a><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Verina
trained as an early Childhood Educator and spent 35 years mostly helping
special needs children. She was </span><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">quilting part time but eventually she left
teaching and its mountain of paperwork to spend more time exploring her
creative talents. She invested in an old quilting machine and has never looked
back.</span></p><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"></span>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/Just4youquilting/" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/Just4youquilting/</a></span></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-GB" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Photographs courtesy of Frances Harrison and
Verina Thirlwell</span></i></p>
<p></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Frances Lawsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08107995840713193160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5507816931969163563.post-70199991556170808262022-09-18T21:30:00.004-07:002022-09-19T03:46:05.822-07:00Templeton Daffodils, Christchurch<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJXA53RjnAGuDnar9BTwpJv_R-5lHCWKdC807dDDu_GMd8vUTnMU1zEZT0ZLz5c1-0bEEvEGuhWbZAVQuwK82gG8xxxKosnFnEnmC-KPoOVAnDVAoAUpblrsEm146zlDtaDcZ2n4jtS1dC6QZgfWr5ZpLoPwE9thzrKlHtuIvI4sSGfqE_vP84igIs/s6016/DSC_0717.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJXA53RjnAGuDnar9BTwpJv_R-5lHCWKdC807dDDu_GMd8vUTnMU1zEZT0ZLz5c1-0bEEvEGuhWbZAVQuwK82gG8xxxKosnFnEnmC-KPoOVAnDVAoAUpblrsEm146zlDtaDcZ2n4jtS1dC6QZgfWr5ZpLoPwE9thzrKlHtuIvI4sSGfqE_vP84igIs/w400-h266/DSC_0717.JPG" width="400" /></a> How to appreciate these heralds of Spring? Visit a daffodil farm. I'm a member of the Rolleston Garden Club and our outing this month was to pop out to Templeton Daffodils for a feast for the eyes and some tips on growing these bulbs. </p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGGjP7OY6IQ1xAfMebBCIEUCwq9lqScuB5caWiM0mDN7tA7iX3cGimhyI8fiXgi44BCf6lgjtadRN21kFYa8nZwwMieWFJomwgK8H3FhSzIoBla0kijznYgJFO_uNwF6UAeCEq0SUv3A_Qxt16QfjRwl-ZekWfZoQaz-X1ugP5tsaU-n2Q-RoInPf7/s6016/DSC_0720.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGGjP7OY6IQ1xAfMebBCIEUCwq9lqScuB5caWiM0mDN7tA7iX3cGimhyI8fiXgi44BCf6lgjtadRN21kFYa8nZwwMieWFJomwgK8H3FhSzIoBla0kijznYgJFO_uNwF6UAeCEq0SUv3A_Qxt16QfjRwl-ZekWfZoQaz-X1ugP5tsaU-n2Q-RoInPf7/w400-h266/DSC_0720.JPG" width="400" /></a>David and Leitha Adams own and manage the farm. </p><p>They have been producing lists of daffodils for thirty years. It's mostly now a devoted hobby producing and selling as many bulbs as they can reasonably manage. They also enter daffodil shows, such as the big one at Woodend, exhibiting their best blooms that the earwigs haven't spoiled. On occasions the farm is visited by high-profile persons who have heard about their blooms and bulbs. Even The Netherlands appreciates the new shapes and colours the Adams have produced over the years.</p><p>Breeding bulbs is a long-term project. The flowers are not cut to supply florists. Instead they are left to sow seed and the seedlings are left for 5 years to produce their first flower. After that it's a matter of selection as to which plants will continue <br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt19teON7yRCn4CkShJoeSu0Tt-vZ1QNcV_Sz0ck9AWqYHFkSCSdtVoXXIfttp6vHpudWHflQdz_7tcczJQ8HzBVmc7DkPN1WwG68gGfJ1SoxVl0xL6aahjZfGXFZJKGZArmkJW4_ydDW6Akm5CMmZjLhZbqizoyzZkdPoFN2qS694warpB_JK_maV/s3990/DSC_0739a.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3990" data-original-width="3541" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt19teON7yRCn4CkShJoeSu0Tt-vZ1QNcV_Sz0ck9AWqYHFkSCSdtVoXXIfttp6vHpudWHflQdz_7tcczJQ8HzBVmc7DkPN1WwG68gGfJ1SoxVl0xL6aahjZfGXFZJKGZArmkJW4_ydDW6Akm5CMmZjLhZbqizoyzZkdPoFN2qS694warpB_JK_maV/w355-h400/DSC_0739a.JPG" width="355" /></a>to do their own thing or be used for selective breeding. Once plants can flower with predicable results their bulbs can be offered for sale. Every seedling that results from random pollination is unique - some are more desirable than others. The flower beds have increased over the years but David informed us that from seed - selection-checking results can take 15 years for one new cultivar.<br /></p><p>Types of daffodils and related bulbs include: Trumpets, large cups, small cups, doubles, Jonquils, Tazettas, Split Coronas, Poeticus and Bulbocodium hybrids.</p><p>David and Leitha have provided some interesting names for their cultivars : Cream Scone, Simply Purring, White Imp, for example.<br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhERhmegHuOMySvkeG2ejDjTtWIUQNhwZmL_9jTD3ZuTGoMn7SEfP5UDRBD_eVzNr0vxPAiwpcHlJwqcONrTWDEDTL9AGXM-FNixHfSM3h79_8Gk_uUcerdYC8fjeMHtFz-_NXC2cVXZohbaLz3Gj0Xqeov6UkJNPmFT5GhwNhQ4cBM4xNjQIDoFkO-/s6016/DSC_0732.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6016" data-original-width="4000" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhERhmegHuOMySvkeG2ejDjTtWIUQNhwZmL_9jTD3ZuTGoMn7SEfP5UDRBD_eVzNr0vxPAiwpcHlJwqcONrTWDEDTL9AGXM-FNixHfSM3h79_8Gk_uUcerdYC8fjeMHtFz-_NXC2cVXZohbaLz3Gj0Xqeov6UkJNPmFT5GhwNhQ4cBM4xNjQIDoFkO-/w266-h400/DSC_0732.JPG" width="266" /></a>Customers need to order before 30 January 2023.Brian starts sending out bulb orders in March and finishes end of April. International orders include a Phytosanitary Certificate.</p><p><b>David gave us some important planting advice:</b> If you live in Canterbury you need to plant your daffodils extra deep. The Nor-Westers are not kind to these tall-blooming flowers, exposing the bulb to insect invasion and also stressing the plant so it may not send up many flower stalks. Even when you so everything right, earwigs can wreak havoc by chewing the edges of the flower petals.</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo7JjJXMUuEH775AX3hpxRL4jO6tXRF_KyRKSz-4oPH15dh8GcvuA-oM2IS4BeSACYHEAQ-rcTc6C7fBJHkZMrYXXRy6dLoxG956wXrZGSeASyUUj9OMCyydPgt7lzHcCWlx3VsliHfvSp5ofcCoVYl40GUKTCKMGR8g0HrawwS9QVyqjIKDNKEXfR/s6016/DSC_0733.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo7JjJXMUuEH775AX3hpxRL4jO6tXRF_KyRKSz-4oPH15dh8GcvuA-oM2IS4BeSACYHEAQ-rcTc6C7fBJHkZMrYXXRy6dLoxG956wXrZGSeASyUUj9OMCyydPgt7lzHcCWlx3VsliHfvSp5ofcCoVYl40GUKTCKMGR8g0HrawwS9QVyqjIKDNKEXfR/w320-h213/DSC_0733.JPG" width="320" /></a>We were generously allowed to pick a bunch of daffodils for free, each, from the field where the Adams had already dug out the best bulbs for production and selling. How awesome to wander down the beautiful rows of flowers and choose what we liked best.My bunch has pride of place on my dining table.<br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGpXlroqpJ5Yo0SaW4TScUiPpjws-0pcAMXNgOapZt_BilWIqiLufF-bUU47ENk6K-yf9tCjX1igzgYfQvnc-80fOahYGTIsakQJJht4NCKH8giOYIVkWUQe3KBQVuiFwpzTdrvVGvN7DmE0G3UdHxW8cvVFwYB0qGCMZ9DvPRwPHWVzghnaBTMFz6/s6016/DSC_0725.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="6016" data-original-width="4000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGpXlroqpJ5Yo0SaW4TScUiPpjws-0pcAMXNgOapZt_BilWIqiLufF-bUU47ENk6K-yf9tCjX1igzgYfQvnc-80fOahYGTIsakQJJht4NCKH8giOYIVkWUQe3KBQVuiFwpzTdrvVGvN7DmE0G3UdHxW8cvVFwYB0qGCMZ9DvPRwPHWVzghnaBTMFz6/s320/DSC_0725.JPG" width="213" /></a></div> If you would like more information on growing daffodils and their related cousins check out the following websites...<br /><p></p><p><a href="https://daffodilusa.org/growing-daffodils/bulb-sources-ordering-tips/specialty-growers/ " target="_blank">https://daffodilusa.org/growing-daffodils/bulb-sources-ordering-tips/specialty-growers/ </a></p><p><a href="https://daffodil.org.nz/special-categories/" target="_blank">https://daffodil.org.nz/special-categories/</a></p><p><a href="https://daffseek.org/" target="_blank"> https://daffseek.org/</a> for an international database with photos</p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj3tWUrktESPYcus9dUhs91Hgd-J2IA58Ps-rkzKGF1ITN90vtzg7yfDkSjg4iBnXyNhRvvcWgd5g8S8sq0em5IgnKX6uC4iZLLeAgCso9EwYdLbjCs5R_mu3AEm6Qo2U1ZuiXoE8AdLpWr1gzg0IAtFpk351lGdm_041zlmhMsJAuUwMav8Bsjghd/s6016/DSC_0729.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj3tWUrktESPYcus9dUhs91Hgd-J2IA58Ps-rkzKGF1ITN90vtzg7yfDkSjg4iBnXyNhRvvcWgd5g8S8sq0em5IgnKX6uC4iZLLeAgCso9EwYdLbjCs5R_mu3AEm6Qo2U1ZuiXoE8AdLpWr1gzg0IAtFpk351lGdm_041zlmhMsJAuUwMav8Bsjghd/w640-h426/DSC_0729.JPG" width="640" /></a></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><br /><br /><br /></p><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcuodgtXnw6x_YTOSKYlJ_G_Ub8l6_TpnTBVYXBJlDHdj43DyBVewMacjTP5NVpMrTgAudKupCY20yhD3I-nSjRzmUSTeagz4XMOfagygftbGVSiZsTbtiYAt1aYUV3SN9ziTo6p89jzq4cahYnjRE20jtVTI1gX-4cvOQ-QSTMjXeK8LOLfqW8OnI/s6016/DSC_0726.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcuodgtXnw6x_YTOSKYlJ_G_Ub8l6_TpnTBVYXBJlDHdj43DyBVewMacjTP5NVpMrTgAudKupCY20yhD3I-nSjRzmUSTeagz4XMOfagygftbGVSiZsTbtiYAt1aYUV3SN9ziTo6p89jzq4cahYnjRE20jtVTI1gX-4cvOQ-QSTMjXeK8LOLfqW8OnI/w640-h426/DSC_0726.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFnBwq3myKsZr58myR4QOFxzXkYonND3hgl8vlDHSdrEXwaUYzOosrB_y9aM9Y8dvCkCT8VobXdhkfviY4FJ7E7vfv4j3kxZA-SzPTRWVPWFRuSmpaUDXNtWIx9ckcGxh4oar4fGVhoX3KguGbnCTBWuZ92QVfr1PjAW2_MN7IWlOv8hAx0tX7SgbL/s6016/DSC_0737.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFnBwq3myKsZr58myR4QOFxzXkYonND3hgl8vlDHSdrEXwaUYzOosrB_y9aM9Y8dvCkCT8VobXdhkfviY4FJ7E7vfv4j3kxZA-SzPTRWVPWFRuSmpaUDXNtWIx9ckcGxh4oar4fGVhoX3KguGbnCTBWuZ92QVfr1PjAW2_MN7IWlOv8hAx0tX7SgbL/w640-h426/DSC_0737.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><br /><p><br /></p>Frances Lawsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08107995840713193160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5507816931969163563.post-66089543895811383572022-08-25T13:31:00.008-07:002022-08-25T13:41:47.698-07:00Endless Service deficit by Telco <p><b> aka Highway to Hell</b>. We are all dependent on continuous telecommunications service these days. Partly this is our hunger for more efficient ways to communicate and entertain ourselves, and partly it is driven by the 'powers-that-be' in terms of their technology and business agendas and strategies. I feel like a pawn in a sick chess game.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh248B9y91ZHqlgRHLCRU80vvJI0SzGIhNibYuD8rDlMXia_GKNfw075pcP5ikGssCs3Mr1DKkwJP9fnL2-UmgmAh5QlYdfJlTW_2QlC-tS4SnnK30x2fOb4CtMiWZQqvUcOxS_XRFy4SJ3MvZMK4XAM_5SAPGV4sRUGRqVqtf7hX5MZU50RShALCwd/s899/Edvard_Munch_-_The_Scream_-_Google_Art_Project.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="899" data-original-width="711" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh248B9y91ZHqlgRHLCRU80vvJI0SzGIhNibYuD8rDlMXia_GKNfw075pcP5ikGssCs3Mr1DKkwJP9fnL2-UmgmAh5QlYdfJlTW_2QlC-tS4SnnK30x2fOb4CtMiWZQqvUcOxS_XRFy4SJ3MvZMK4XAM_5SAPGV4sRUGRqVqtf7hX5MZU50RShALCwd/w316-h400/Edvard_Munch_-_The_Scream_-_Google_Art_Project.jpg" width="316" /></a></div>I experienced a loss of all telecoms service; that's phone and internet, earlier this month. Apparently my streaming use had used up my generous data allowance but that didn't explain why my separate phone plan was affected. To suddenly find you can't lead a normal life with a basic service we are all 'required to have and need' hits home immediately. I thought I had better top up. This is impossible if you have no phone service. I was obliged to go to a neighbour and ask for help with contacting the dreadful Vodafone customer care staff hiding behind a ghastly voice recognition/AI mindless voice that understands nothing and sends you on a continuous loop of menu options. Eventually I managed to top up my account to receive some phone and internet.<br /><p></p><p>I'd had enough and figured I'd better avoid running out by changing my plan to a more expensive endless phone calls and internet data plan. Oh dear! I dared to change something and I went from pillar to post. My frustration with their call centre system prompted me to send an email to the CEO of Vodafone NZ, Jason Paris. You can't email customer services. That option no longer exists.<br /></p><p><span class="x_x_elementToProof" color="rgb(0,0,0)!important" style="font-size: 12pt;">11 August 2022<br /></span></p><p><i><span class="x_x_elementToProof" color="rgb(0,0,0)!important" style="font-size: 12pt;">Dear Jason</span></i> </p><div class="x_x_elementToProof" style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><i>I
am in the process of converting from wireless broadband to fibre. My
home is modern and there is some fibre in the street and the outside of
my house. I placed the order 04 August and have still not received the
modem to complete the installation. My current wireless broadband modem
is not compatible with fibre.</i></div><div class="x_x_elementToProof" style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><i> </i></div><div class="x_x_elementToProof" style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><i>Over
the past few days I have been shuttled between Philippines and India
with the usual accompanying difficulties of communication and looking
things up at their end. I have been informed by India that I cannot have
a modem until Enable say the connection is completed.</i></div><div class="x_x_elementToProof" style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><i><br aria-hidden="true" /></i></div><div class="x_x_elementToProof" style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><i>The
Enable guys say the opposite, that they cannot complete without the
modem (logical). What is going on? After spending hours on multiple days
trying to find the right person overseas who can action something the
best I can expect is a modem to arrive in 72 hours. Who knows how to set
it up? Not sure I do and if it doesn't work what do I do then?</i></div><div class="x_x_elementToProof" style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><i><br aria-hidden="true" /></i></div><div class="x_x_elementToProof" style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><i>There are three issues here that need your attention:</i></div><div class="x_x_elementToProof" style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><ol><li><i><span>The
nightmare of an automated phone menu that can't behave intuitively.
Sure, you don't have to pay staff but the service is awful to deal with.
I just go round and round with the voice telling me it doesn't
understand and giving me a menu which doesn't match my enquiry. I have
very good diction.<br aria-hidden="true" /></span></i></li></ol></div><ol start="2"><li class="x_x_elementToProof" style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><i>Something
is wrong with your installation process. The modem should arrive BEFORE
Enable plugs it in. I have a garage full of Enable guys who can't
finish their job<br aria-hidden="true" /></i></li></ol><ol start="3"><li class="x_x_elementToProof" style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><i>You
said publicly more than a year ago that you were bringing back the
customer care call centres within a year. I say bullshit. I only get to
talk to the Philippines or India. What is your personal assurance worth?<br aria-hidden="true" /></i></li></ol><div class="x_x_elementToProof" style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><i>As
an ex Communications and PR specialist I would say this whole Vodafone
customer experience is sub-standard and you are losing credibility when
you fail to deliver on your public promises, which were key issues in
2021.</i></div><div class="x_x_elementToProof" style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><i><br aria-hidden="true" /></i></div><i>Quoting your good self... Feb 26 2021." </i><p class="x_x_default__StyledParagraph-so8yqq-0 x_x_gMKMgX x_x_body-paragraph"><i>He
says the Vodafone Business call centre has “100 per cent been brought
back to New Zealand”, acknowledging that while the company has “great
people overseas” the accent barrier has proved “really difficult”, often
leading to miscommunication.</i></p><p><i>The same is true for the consumer call centre, which he says by the end of 2021 will also largely be based in New Zealand." <a data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0" href="https://www.1news.co.nz/2021/02/25/our-service-hasnt-been-good-enough-vodafone-boss-touts-big-changes-call-centres-coming-back-to-nz/" id="LPlnk137252" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.1news.co.nz/2021/02/25/our-service-hasnt-been-good-enough-vodafone-boss-touts-big-changes-call-centres-coming-back-to-nz/</a></i></p><p>I call bullshit on all those meangless promises. They never delivered for domestic customers.</p><p>Thirty minutes after sending him the email, a nice underling who handles complaints called me and said he would help sort things out. He checked my top-up had gone through and said the modem had been ordered back on the 4th but that the order had stopped for some reason so he would reactivate that so my modem should arrive in 72 hours. It did. I called <b>Enable</b> and got the guys back a couple of days later to complete the installation. They couldn't shut the cabinet door as the electric plugs are too bulky to fit the connection inside. I would have to get a small trianglular double adapter, unplug and re-plug in the fibre box.</p><p>I discovered my internet was still constantly dropping out to the point where streaming and using YouTube for my music practice became impossible. I checked the internet speed. It was very slow. I went through the horror of the Vodafone customer call centres off-shore to eventually be told the fibre had not been activated their end. This is despite me previously calling them the day of completed installation to update their system and cancel my wireless broadband as I would now be on the fibre contract. They assured me I now had fibre service. no aplogies and no compensation for days of not having the service I was now paying for.<br /></p><p>The speeds still seemed slow, in fact worse. I also received a text message telling me I had reached my credit limit and could no longer have phone or internet until I gave them my credit card details. I thought it was just an admin error but no... there's more. The next day I had no phone, nor internet, again, yet I was on an endless monthly plan. </p><p>I tried to have a bot chat with Vodafone just before my telecoms service cut out but they told me to disconnect modem and cable and fibre and WAN cable and power to reset things. When I reconnected the fibre box it would not light up again.</p><p>I jumped in my car to seek help from a friend with a mobile. He wasn't home so I had to drive home and hope the neighbours were now awake and able to use their phone to call Vodafone OMG call centre. Within 20 minutes of waiting there was steam coming from his ears as he tried to get a PERSON to answer and help. More waiting and then a woman with an Asian accent no doubt in Mumbai said she could not proceed unless he would verify his account. But he does not have a Vodafone account. He had already given them my account details. She insisted. My neighbour replied it had nothing to do with his non-Vodafone account. We could get nowhere, she couldn't understand us and put us on hold. We hung up and with my neighbour's phone I contacted the complaints guy in Auckland via his smartphone. He rang me back to say my disconnection was all due to a system they had years back where new customers were limited in the credit they could rark up. I said I had never asked for that, in fact knew nothing about it and it should never have been applied to me as I was on an endless monthly contract. He spent ages tapping on his computer and after getting my password was able to disactivate this antiquated admin. He also said he would lodge a work order for Enable to come out but that I too should call Enable about it, just to make sure. He did not apologise. No responsibility was acknowledged. No compensation was offered.</p><p>An hour and a half after I spoke to Enable's customer service with yet another 'accent' though she assured me she was based in Christchurch, <b>The Guys from Enable</b> arrived at my door. Their third visit to me, we get on well now.<br /></p><p>Ron and Frank were great. They responded promptly and checked and corrected every element that could be giving me fibre problems including internet speed via modem direct and wifi on my laptop, also power plug configuration in the Telecoms cabinet in my garage. They discovered a switch impossibly hidden behind plugs had been knocked to the off position when I reconnected power to the fibre box. They checked my TV was set up correctly for me since moving to fibre. Some of this may not be strictly in their job description but it is necessary to rule out interferences to fibre connections. However, not so impressed with the woman from Enable customer service who said I should never have switched off my fibre box, despite Vodafone telling me to do that for a reset and also being previously told to do that by Ron and Frank in order to change the plug configuration for electricity. </p><p>I eventually got there but the interface between Vodafone and Enable is not so great (mostly the fault of Vodafone). I shudder to think of my fate if I had not had the cellphone number of that guy from Vodafone HQ as a result of my email to the CEO. They just don't care. I have explained that no amount of new sales staff they are currently recruiting is going to stop them losing customers from all this shit. They have no credibility. Their CEO tells 'pork pies' to the media when Vodafone are getting flak through poor service. I had better stick with them for now but I desperately want to be the customer of a telco that is responsive, easy to deal with, cares about customer care and can liaise with Enable with intelligent English-as-a-first-language speakers based in NZ. PLEASE. This has dragged on with hours of stress for three weeks now.<br /></p><p>I am also dubious about their statement that I had orginally used up all my phone data as here is a graphic showing my useage up to last month on my old Lite plan. Who knows what to think. My phone useage behaviours have not changed.<br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMf51BfuuC8NueejXWGOjojAq4UhCArWGOaRLe4qTAprSop9_29diAesM0wpzc8EJtx0uzVWbd3HsVS1dtNOMgECoBH8kBPYiI-95ozQWPCQfwSNsZocWR-uQsSSNNezAsjkGkB_XaoCxx3TR3sD5iMTqQ4qfQThmbE7duImRqJezTpMu1zdKWfABW/s669/Phone%20useage%20(2).jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="444" data-original-width="669" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMf51BfuuC8NueejXWGOjojAq4UhCArWGOaRLe4qTAprSop9_29diAesM0wpzc8EJtx0uzVWbd3HsVS1dtNOMgECoBH8kBPYiI-95ozQWPCQfwSNsZocWR-uQsSSNNezAsjkGkB_XaoCxx3TR3sD5iMTqQ4qfQThmbE7duImRqJezTpMu1zdKWfABW/w400-h265/Phone%20useage%20(2).jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXGSW9hguu2a-x7ZJYm8MYpCsJ--r62NgGMn9Yxf9X54cjPDY0UgA3TZkuEYwe2ykj4P_7zv4PEtbDvd-KfPI4liQyxnKmV8NQ74CY4wAK7x4gRa_sLBaP7uGf3O2nc8OuLj1l6CqX_qFt2rk49ye0Qex-rRvxxcGHcGbGPNsmwhz-7fbuDn2NedhQ/s586/infographic%20(2).jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="414" data-original-width="586" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXGSW9hguu2a-x7ZJYm8MYpCsJ--r62NgGMn9Yxf9X54cjPDY0UgA3TZkuEYwe2ykj4P_7zv4PEtbDvd-KfPI4liQyxnKmV8NQ74CY4wAK7x4gRa_sLBaP7uGf3O2nc8OuLj1l6CqX_qFt2rk49ye0Qex-rRvxxcGHcGbGPNsmwhz-7fbuDn2NedhQ/w400-h283/infographic%20(2).jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Frances Lawsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08107995840713193160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5507816931969163563.post-68355131492772001752022-07-11T00:08:00.000-07:002022-07-11T00:08:25.493-07:00Anatomy of an online dating scam<p><span style="font-family: arial;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPIaMxLdcP0Axi5GMhgudUQKX_UwU6d-HzYsWmDfjy0Qw7d4G52ECZaTpqmSn6oTYXz02T8pHN8qSAoJ5iYi3uc6xKIYE3AU7tagQo9yiG7JQWm2DJiE2AYiS9Aqah1SoikM8U2y1_mojvLgkfMVu14yuvjq2QA--HDJCBvpFFs3uhO8jxB5kIEx-g/s750/3B0CCE9E-3B18-48A4-BDEE-4CB57F9E4CEE.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="604" data-original-width="750" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPIaMxLdcP0Axi5GMhgudUQKX_UwU6d-HzYsWmDfjy0Qw7d4G52ECZaTpqmSn6oTYXz02T8pHN8qSAoJ5iYi3uc6xKIYE3AU7tagQo9yiG7JQWm2DJiE2AYiS9Aqah1SoikM8U2y1_mojvLgkfMVu14yuvjq2QA--HDJCBvpFFs3uhO8jxB5kIEx-g/s320/3B0CCE9E-3B18-48A4-BDEE-4CB57F9E4CEE.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: arial;">Ever wondered how scammers operate on online dating sites? What do they actually say to hook potential victims? Here's your chance to be a 'fly on the wall'. I recently experienced a scam but fear not, there was never any possiblity of losing any money as I don't have any and don't trust easily these days. The following exerpts from email communications over a 3 week period are heavily edited (especially mine as most info on me is already in the public domain). The scammer is in black type, <span style="color: #274e13;">I am in green</span> and <span style="color: #990000;">my editorial comments are in red</span>. The following messages start after initial contact on the dating site. His profile then abruptly became unavailable. This is, I have now discovered, a scammer technique as they hide and don't wish to pay to use the sites. The fiction was that he was working on an oil platform in the North Sea off the cost of scotland. Due to return to Christchurch in two weeks which somehow stretched to three.</span><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I have included photos of this 'person' who is probably some poor guy unaware his image is being used. If you know who this person is in the photo please let me know. I have not revealed the name as it is probably bogus and I don't want to upset people with the same name. <b><span style="font-size: medium;">So...Read on... What do you make of it?</span></b><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"> A: How are you? I hope you're good and you've had a very fine weekend.
Thanks very much for responding to my message on the dating site. I
really do appreciate having you here and i hope we can develop a
beautiful relationship together...smiles.<br aria-hidden="true" /><br aria-hidden="true" />I
am sorry for my delayed reply, i have been a little busy at work. I
also got a bit of sad news a few days ago and it's got me quite down and
slow. I lost a very dear friend and i am still quite shocked over his
death. He was a very fit and healthy gentleman. He wasn't sick, until he
had a sudden heart stroke and he didn't survive it. He was like my only
friend and i will miss him greatly. I pray his soul rest in perfect
peace.<br aria-hidden="true" /><br aria-hidden="true" />I didn't have much
on my profile, so i will try to introduce myself formally here and you
can ask whatever question you like when you reply...smiles.<br aria-hidden="true" />My
name is A**** M*******. I am a Virgo, Born September 13th, 1958. I am a
widower as my wife passed away 4yrs ago. We never had kids, even though
we tried several times. As we really love kids and wanted to have ours.<br aria-hidden="true" />I
am an easy going person, some say i'm always with a smile. I love
sports(soccer), reading, music, movies(comedy), nature, hiking,
traveling, going on a boat cruise... just the simple things of life.<br aria-hidden="true" /><br aria-hidden="true" />I
am a mixed American as my mum was Brazilian, while my Dad was an
American. I live in Christchurch, but i am currently at the North Sea in
Scotland for a contract job. We are constructing an offshore crude oil
rig here at the North Sea.<br aria-hidden="true" />I got the contract to
supply some of the heavy duty machines needed and i also work as a
Safety Supervisor on the platform. The project is supposed to end in
March, but the pandemic slowed things down a bit as we had to stop work
for a while. I've been back here on the platform for about 2 weeks now
and i just have two more weeks to go before i come back home to
Christchurch for my break. The project will be ending in September and i
hope to retire afterwards. It is one more reason i joined the dating
site. To find a partner to enjoy my retirement with.<br aria-hidden="true" /><br aria-hidden="true" />It's
been a while since i was in a relationship and i want love again in my
life. I desire an understanding and honest lady who is ready to love and
be loved, as life can be very lonely and boring without a companion.
This sudden passing of my friend has just made me realize again that
life's short and we just have to enjoy it and live it to the fullest
while we can.<br aria-hidden="true" /><br aria-hidden="true" />I know i am
away now and we can't meet up right away. But i believe it can work in
our favor, as we can use the time to get to know ourselves a bit, before
we actually meet up in person. So we won't just be like complete
strangers when we meet up...smiles. I feel it might be a bit awkward
that way...smiles. I haven't dated in a while, so please pardon me if i
am wrong about this.<br aria-hidden="true" /><br aria-hidden="true" />I'll
stop here, but will write again when next i read from you. You can tell
me about yourself, just the basic things you would like me to know and
you can ask whatever question you wish to know about me. Until then, you
take good care of yourself and enjoy your week. Bye for now.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #990000;">He uses American spelling. Generally good spelling except for the first person pronoun and a rather strange and repetitive use of syntax that would suggest he is not a native English speaker. There again, so many people can't write a normal sentence these days. The endearments are a bit odd. Sort of reminds me of those internet scammers from Nigeria.<br /></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #990000;"> Email from me follows, outlining some personal info, likes and dislikes etc. Asking for more detailed info from him. An internet search reveals this person does not have a Facebook account, nor a webpage.<br /></span></span></p><p><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span>F: </span>What sort of safety stuff do you have to do on the oil rig? Sounds cold out there, even though it is summer...What do you do in your spare time?...Why are you in NZ/ Christchurch? ...</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #990000;"> <span style="color: black;">A: </span></span>Your email is really nice, i must let you know i am liking our
communication already and i hope for the best for us. Thanks for your
concern about my friend, it's quite sad but it's the way life is. We
never get out of it alive.<br aria-hidden="true" />Nice to know you're
already retired as i will be doing so soon as well. How are you finding
retirement? I sometimes fear i might get bored...smiles. It's why i
don't plan on going into full time retirement. I will find something
less stressful to keep me occupied for a few hours in a day or a few
days of the week. It's one more reason i need a partner, to enjoy my
retirement with. Travel and do whatever fun activity we like
together...smiles.<br aria-hidden="true" />We are quite alike as we both
haven't been in a relationship for a while. I don't expect to find a
perfect partner, just someone i can get along with and share the rest of
my life with. You seem like a really nice and intelligent lady. That's
good enough for me. I just hope you find me good enough too...smiles. I
see you've tried internet dating before and i am a little surprised
you're still single. What happened the last time you tried it? Didn't
you meet anyone? Or were you just looking out for me...smiles.<br aria-hidden="true" />It's
a pretty cloudy day out here with a temperature of about 15C. I've been
working out at the plant for most of the day. I just finished having my
lunch break and i've got some time alone in my office, so i decided to
come spend it with you...smiles.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"> I spent my early childhood in Brazil before
relocating to the United States. I used to speak fluent Portuguese back
then in Brazil but changed to English when we relocated to the States. I
forgot how to speak Portuguese over time due to lack of practice, but i
couldn't let go of the accent completely...smiles.<br aria-hidden="true" />I
like dancing even though i am not so good at it. I just move my body to
the melody. It's why i like almost all kinds of music, depending on my
mood. I've got a few dance moves i can teach you when we get together
and you can teach me some dancing as well...smiles. <br aria-hidden="true" /><br aria-hidden="true" />The
weather out here is always cold, some days are worse and some days ok.
It's about 13C now and it's like it's going to be a sunny day. Our rig
is still under construction, so our basic day to day activity is on
machine installations and their various processes. I monitor the process
to make sure everything is done correctly and safely. Making sure both
the facility and the personnel are safe at all times.<br aria-hidden="true" />I
see you've got a really nice and flourishing garden...smiles. My late
wife used to have one back in the States and i enjoyed fresh fruits and
vegetables from it...smiles. I am not so good at gardening, so i don't
have any at the moment. Maybe you can help me out in future when we get
together...smiles.<br aria-hidden="true" />I am sorry you couldn't see my
profile on the dating site anymore when you checked. It's just like i
told you in my message on the site, i didn't plan on staying on the
site. So i deleted my profile after you wrote to me here. Didn't see any
reason being there anymore as we can have all our communications here
and meet up when the time is right.<br aria-hidden="true" />I don't do so
much during my spare time. I like to work out at the gym, nap, watch
movies, read, go out for a walk and sight seeing...smiles.<br aria-hidden="true" />I
actually relocated to NZ for work and i just decided to stay back after
my contract expired. My current job here at the North Sea is only
temporary, so it's why i didn't bother relocating down here. I kind of
like NZ, compared to the United States. It's relatively more peaceful
and i believe it's such a place i need to be for my retirement.
Somewhere serene and peaceful to relax and enjoy my golden years with my
partner...smiles. Of course we can always travel to visit other
countries from time to time but i want my home to be in NZ...smiles.
France is also nice, but i don't really like it because of the language.
I can't speak French and i am not so ready for the stress of learning a
new language now...smiles.<br aria-hidden="true" />Well, i will have to
stop here to get started with my duties for the day. Need to sort out
some paperwork in preparation for a meeting with the other engineers to
discuss my incoming shipment from the United States. You take good care
of yourself and enjoy your night as i look forward to reading from you
again soon. Bye for now.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Elaborate details. Sounds convincing. <span style="color: #cc0000;">He sends four photos, supposedly of himself so I reply by sending some of mine.</span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><span style="color: black;"><span>Thanks for your lovely email and photos. You're a very pretty lady and i
feel really lucky being connected with you...smiles. I am glad you like
my photos as well. The very first stage of any relationship is liking
each other's physical appearance and i am glad we've crossed that stage
already. From the little we've shared, i kind of feel you've got the
inner beauty too and i look forward to exploring it all as we get along </span></span> </span></span></p><p><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-family: arial;">F: <span><span>Please don't assume we are suited. I hope we are but chemistry is
necessary and we have never met. I don't even have a decent photo of
you. You seem like a nice person and intelligent and interesting but
that is not enough. I don't carry a lot of 'baggage' but the
relationships I have had in the past have not been positive ones. I am
very cautious and take things slowly because if a guy can't start as a
good friend I can trust, it will never work to rush things.</span></span></span></span></p><p><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-family: arial;">I am looking forward to hearing from you. What do your heavy machines actually do?</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Trying to get more specific info but it's like pulling teeth. </span><br /></span></p><div><span style="font-family: arial;">A: I admire your courage in relocating to France without understanding
the language. But i understand you had to do what is needed at
the time. I did likewise when i was in Qatar for 3yrs, but mine is
different as i still couldn't speak Arabic after i left. My ears aren't
so good with languages like yours. I can only visit non-English speaking
countries but not relocate there permanently.<br aria-hidden="true" /><br aria-hidden="true" /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;">I
am sorry if i sounded too forward about my intentions in my previous
email. I am not a man that believes in rushing a relationship. Love
comes softly and i believe friendship should always come first in any
true relationship. It's one more reason i am happy we are meeting this
way. Getting to know the basics about each other virtually before
actually meeting up in person. I want the real thing or at least a good friendship.<br aria-hidden="true" /><br aria-hidden="true" /></span><div><span style="font-family: arial;">It
has been another cold day out here. Been working out at the plant for
most of the day and we're done with all that for today. I've just
finished having my lunch and will continue the day's task at the
laboratory as we've got some testing and analysis to do. That will take
up the rest of the work day. </span></div><span style="font-family: arial;">I will relax for a few minutes
with a hot cup of coffee here in my office before i go out again. You
just take good care of yourself always and have a very fine day ahead as
i look forward to reading from you again later on. </span><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyvG27LBiSpnPrqRB_zdTggJAa0s1i-Pk__MBcEcG6y9dRQM56VAwzgAUQtyCEGZwHSpAwcsfNvOXowxAWQjomKqh-64dgGaZilyWkjYlpeXbTC0hhc6UdhXxbBh2xopQqrMkE7WthUUKdVgXrbpgTVw0dTilv5mj1qskQ4UvHIKJYpR28HVH3f4lK/s546/AF0D62EA-E9DE-4081-A089-C16855D00AA5.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="416" data-original-width="546" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyvG27LBiSpnPrqRB_zdTggJAa0s1i-Pk__MBcEcG6y9dRQM56VAwzgAUQtyCEGZwHSpAwcsfNvOXowxAWQjomKqh-64dgGaZilyWkjYlpeXbTC0hhc6UdhXxbBh2xopQqrMkE7WthUUKdVgXrbpgTVw0dTilv5mj1qskQ4UvHIKJYpR28HVH3f4lK/s320/AF0D62EA-E9DE-4081-A089-C16855D00AA5.jpeg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"> </span> </span><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #990000;"><span></span></span></span>Just so you know, i am not looking for the perfect partner as i don't
believe anyone is perfect. All i need is someone that is compatible with
me and enjoys my company as much as i enjoy hers...smiles. So i can
rightly say you're perfect for me as you are as you've got all i desire
in a partner and more...smiles. I haven't been to a lot of places in NZ,
so you see we have a lot to do together. Lots of places to see and fun
activities lined up. I so much look forward to it all, even though i am
more interested in just spending time with you and getting to know
you...smiles.<br aria-hidden="true" />The machines i am bringing in are
mainly for drilling, power generation, metering and some general safety
accessories. I will stop here to carry on with my duties as i look
forward to reading from you again later on. I must confess you've been
with me in my thoughts often these few days and i hope things just keep
getting better for us.. </span></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6R-ugr_xDVf-ZFhI-fYW760Gg2JwC0ofH9vVK3sAk8tG7PThaCXEITCNEYtoKqR0V9rXXoVieCn7QiRzP3x9g88fHQiCIGkoqOwHPYKcMIlcEzzFjmuTqEkC05vAlnucoD3VRbXWMn7ach0PKmuomI2BA5tpIR2r4y8E53jSWYP1Y4sPuNgG0mPKF/s680/ADDF1629-4B59-4AF2-9F54-3E645A82158E.jpeg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="680" data-original-width="363" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6R-ugr_xDVf-ZFhI-fYW760Gg2JwC0ofH9vVK3sAk8tG7PThaCXEITCNEYtoKqR0V9rXXoVieCn7QiRzP3x9g88fHQiCIGkoqOwHPYKcMIlcEzzFjmuTqEkC05vAlnucoD3VRbXWMn7ach0PKmuomI2BA5tpIR2r4y8E53jSWYP1Y4sPuNgG0mPKF/s320/ADDF1629-4B59-4AF2-9F54-3E645A82158E.jpeg" width="171" /></a><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-family: arial;"></span>A: It's another cold and windy morning out here. It rained a bit
during the night and it seems like it's going to rain again this
morning. We will be going out for some maintenance work in another rig
this evening and we will be there until Sunday. The internet there isn't
so good, so i may not be able to write until we get back here on
Sunday. I just must let you know, so you don't get too worried when you
don't hear from me. I want you to know you will be with me in my
thoughts and i will write as soon as possible.<br aria-hidden="true" />I
will stop here for now to go have my breakfast at the cafeteria as i
look forward to reading from you again later on. Until then, you take
good care of yourself and have a very fine night's rest.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">A: How are you? I hope good and you haven't missed me too much...smiles. I
missed you though and i've only just got settled back at my platform.
You've been with me in my thoughts and i am here to spend a few mins
with you. I will give a proper reply to your email in my morning. I
just must let you know that i am still here and so much looking forward
to meeting you soon. I should be coming home later this week and will
let you know of my flight details as soon as I have it booked.<br aria-hidden="true" />I am tired and will try to get some rest now. Do take good care of yourself always and enjoy a very fine day ahead. Bye for now. </span></p><p><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-family: arial;">F: Do you know yet when you will be back in Christchurch?....I would also be interested to know what values you deem important. I
consider honesty, generosity of spirit, cleanliness, punctuality,
reliability, a sense of drive is important. There are others you can
discover. What can you tell me about yourself? </span></span></p><div><span style="font-family: arial;">A: I see you have quite a lot of work going on in your garden and i
wish i am there to assist..smiles. I am not so good at gardening, but at
least you won't have to be climbing a ladder with me around...smiles.
Please be safe when you do that, or you can just wait until i come over
and it will be my pleasure to get it done for you.<br aria-hidden="true" /><br aria-hidden="true" /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: arial;">My
shipment from the United States should be arriving at Aberdeen seaport
next week. So i should be able to come home towards the weekend. Will
surely let you know of my flight details soonest i have it booked. So
you know when i am coming in and maybe you can meet me at the
airport...smiles.<br aria-hidden="true" /></span></div><p><span style="font-family: arial;">I
am a simple man and just need a simple lady that is compatible with me.
Someone caring, fun, understanding, intelligent and all the other
values you mentioned in your mail...smiles. I just want someone that
will be happy to share the rest of her life with me, as much as i will
be overjoyed sharing forever with her too...smiles.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #990000;">Sounds a bit cloying. Could still be legit.</span><br /></span></p><p><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> F: It was great to get your message. I was becoming a bit puzzled by the
silence as it has been a couple of days since I last heard from you.
Thank goodness you haven't fallen overboard or been crushed by heavy
machinery. They must be keeping you very busy.</span></span></p><p><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> I have attached some photos of me in Rio 2012 for the Earth Summit. Do you have any photos of you on the oil platform?<br aria-hidden="true" /></span></span></p><p><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Am happy to collect you from the airport so long as it fits in with any
of my other commitments. Without a definite time from you it's a bit hit and miss. Hope you don't
have too many hassles getting back to NZ in these covid times. I am looking forward to meeting you soon.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #990000;"><span></span></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #990000;"><span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDkvGB3nymdlhQKaIBXTxLaDw-KKhXKQWPaZNQ5YYdN30K7PScZDt-Bok6GVTucjt_zijs02hhjZ5IQIACS9UZBWUSbBB59TyMI-yv3C5qpRjpYlfL4yAdbI2rmsFZA_15VM-jeeR5HEW0ZKowMGgn_Auzv-mEtKQwCf9vylxE9HBep64tZJUGyBuF/s750/E7A350C9-C73B-4FF0-B726-FC214A81775C.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="557" data-original-width="750" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDkvGB3nymdlhQKaIBXTxLaDw-KKhXKQWPaZNQ5YYdN30K7PScZDt-Bok6GVTucjt_zijs02hhjZ5IQIACS9UZBWUSbBB59TyMI-yv3C5qpRjpYlfL4yAdbI2rmsFZA_15VM-jeeR5HEW0ZKowMGgn_Auzv-mEtKQwCf9vylxE9HBep64tZJUGyBuF/s320/E7A350C9-C73B-4FF0-B726-FC214A81775C.jpeg" width="320" /></a></span></span></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #990000;"><span>He replies he has no photos of him on the oil rig but will send some later. So why not take a selfie and send it? Hmmm. I am trying to be as neutral as possible but am starting to wonder. Folks, listen to your intuition.</span></span><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">A: I hope you had a lovely night's rest and you awake to another beautiful
morning. I am not doing so well over here and it's the reason i couldn't
write sooner.<br aria-hidden="true" /><br aria-hidden="true" />I arrived
here in the city yesterday evening but i had some issues as i got in and
it has got me quite frustrated and stranded. I only noticed my bank
account is frozen as i tried to use the ATM here in the city. I couldn't
access my funds in the account, so i couldn't even pay for any hotel
accommodation. I had to go make a report with the police and they
assisted me in getting a place on credit in a serviced apartment. <br aria-hidden="true" /><br aria-hidden="true" />I
have been speaking with my bank all day to try to reactivate my account
but they aren't really helping. They claim some money was transferred
into the account from Russia and they suspect it's money laundering.
I've explained that the money was sent in by a company i used to work
for in Russia, to purchase some equipment for them from the United
States, but they are still refusing to unfreeze the account. Saying i
should give them time to carry out their investigations.<br aria-hidden="true" /><br aria-hidden="true" />I
am just so frustrated and don't know what else to do. As i need to
access my funds in order to get my shipment cleared from the seaport.
And the equipment is needed for work at the platform immediately. I've
been thinking so much that i am having a migraine now.<br aria-hidden="true" /><br aria-hidden="true" />Anyway,
i just want to let you know what is going on, so you don't get too
worried about me. I am still looking for ways to get things sorted and i
will surely let you know when all is well again. You just take good
care of yourself and have a very fine day ahead. I will be in touch. Bye
for now.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #990000;">What sort of international businessman is so incompetent not to have this sort of thing sussed or covered? Alarm bells are now ringing but there is no proof of scamming.</span><br /></span></p><p><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> F: You do realise this all sounds like an internet dating scam? </span></span></p><div dir="ltr"><span style="font-family: arial;">A: But what will I gain in scamming you. I can never stoop so low to do such. Just letting you know what is going on with me. <br /></span></div><span style="font-family: arial;"></span><p><span style="font-family: arial;"> <span style="color: #274e13;">F: It usually involves a guy needing money and they are always
overseas. I have come across this before several times so I am very
sceptical. Sorry if I have misjudged <span style="font-size: 12pt;"> you
but dating sites are used for this and the fact that you immediately
disappeared from the site is often an indicator. I certainly hope your
situation gets resolved. I've tried a lot of internet dating over the
years. I end up getting hurt. I am hoping you are not like that. This is
why I don't like long distance. </span></span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;">A: I understand you very well, but because you've been scammed by someone
in the past doesn't mean everyone having issues is a scam. I told you i
wasn't going to remain on the dating site after i sent you my email to
contact me. I don't know why you will want to use that against me now.<br aria-hidden="true" />Anyway,
i am still looking for ways to get myself sorted. I will let you know
when everything is good again and i am ready to come home. You just take
care and have a nice evening.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"> <span style="color: #990000;">People trying to avoid paying for internet dating frequently find ways to add a profile and to give someone who interests them their email address in a format that is difficult for the site to pick up on. It doesn't mean they are not reasonable people. But... I am beginning to see a pattern.<br /></span></span></p><p><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> F: I do not wish to hold anything against you, simply to explain my
reaction as I have been mislead, betrayed and lied to several times
where distance is involved. There is currently a lot of that happening
to men and women on the dating sites including a handful of incidents
for myself alone. It is unfortunate that you have been caught up in such
a difficult situation before we have even met.</span></span></p><div style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-family: arial;">All
the best in resolving your current problem. Banks are very cagey with
international money transfers these days, even extremely modest amounts,
and I suppose anything to do with Russia these days could raise a red
flag.<br aria-hidden="true" /></span></span></div><div style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><br aria-hidden="true" /></span></span></div><div style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Fortunately
you are in an English-speaking country. Do keep me up to date on
developments and hope to see you back here safe and sound.<br aria-hidden="true" /></span></span></div><div style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #274e13;">Take care</span></span></div><div style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></div><div style="color: black; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #990000;"><span>Am waiting to see if he will 'hang' himself. His next email should be interesting. I really hope it's not what I think it will be. </span></span><br /></span></div><p><span style="font-family: arial;"> A: As i am still not settled over here and i wonder if you can assist.
I've been trying to reach my friend all day for some monetary assistance
but i can't seem to reach him on the phone or via email. I am very
stranded and frustrated here and will so much appreciate your help. I
just need a little loan to help get things sorted and i can pay back
within the next few days. Thanks very much in anticipation of a
favorable reply and do have a very fine day ahead. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="color: #990000;">The definitive 'aha' moment. What decent guy who has never met the woman is going to ask for money? I play confused but trying to be helpful. A scammer should, by this time, realise he is wasting his time.</span> <br /></span></p><p><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-family: arial;">F: You would need to give me this person's phone number.
Surely you must be needing a large sum of money to sort out your
problems. I am in no position to help anyone financially, myself. If you
have their phone number you could contact them directly?You could
always try using Skype or zoom with your friend. I usually use Skype
when communicating internationally.</span></span></p><div dir="auto"><span style="color: #274e13;"><span style="font-family: arial;">Cheers and good luck.</span></span></div><div dir="auto"><span style="font-family: arial;"> </span></div><div dir="auto"><span style="color: #990000;"><span style="font-family: arial;"><span><b>No further communication from this jerk.</b> Shame I wasted 3 weeks of 'hard to come by' hope. I have noticed a rash of guys putting profiles up and then immediately being labelled inactive members. I wrote a diary entry for the dating site alerting to some of the red flag behaviours but they did not show any real interest. I now report any guy's profile that semms to be using the same modus operandi. It's time consuming.</span></span></span><br /></div>Frances Lawsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08107995840713193160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5507816931969163563.post-58425628895066001062022-06-19T19:11:00.032-07:002022-06-19T20:09:06.791-07:00Back in the groove<p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn459qm2hDtlMuwc5KE7b32l7c7J9mDP3sHim9DmcrB6Fjffe3QT73KjzWn5G5tr-sGigQ37OU-b68NzaqmIOH4PAQ3Ya8cHjMAWc-p78-2XlzCkYyHNAVKA7GNEFeZ2K3U9VMvMEkZujdF4brvPo6g1DFYVrCcCK0DZDpCGRPsNAcDM2H6W-MXewB/s6016/DSC_0675.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6016" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn459qm2hDtlMuwc5KE7b32l7c7J9mDP3sHim9DmcrB6Fjffe3QT73KjzWn5G5tr-sGigQ37OU-b68NzaqmIOH4PAQ3Ya8cHjMAWc-p78-2XlzCkYyHNAVKA7GNEFeZ2K3U9VMvMEkZujdF4brvPo6g1DFYVrCcCK0DZDpCGRPsNAcDM2H6W-MXewB/w400-h266/DSC_0675.JPG" width="400" /></a> It has been more than three months since my open heart surgeries and I am now beginning to reclaim my new life.</p><p>My general practitioner has a decent grasp on things (after seeing me so regularly) and mostly agrees with my requests.Sleep eludes me no matter what is prescribed for sleep so I'm looking at having the offending medication changed and I will be resisting starting any new medicines unless the doc can justify it with evidence.<br /></p><p>Pain control has been greatly improved since my GP put me on amytriptaline for the nerve pain. My nerves, muscles and tendons are trying to regrow and reconnect which means my chest is supremely sensitive in negative ways. The amytriptaline takes the edge off the pain, resulting in my ability to just get on with life while I am healing.<br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeQWMltWqPfx8ID1k9nM22C6kEBYEaWmbyV9Wo1YoZzGw973MGDO_65lGkwIglVh3MS5jaJJSutHGIdGCWRVKl_qTEYyoCGi-pK5Wwlszz2DhAGuhstWdC0vjmT0hAPqd5RYd_Gw1Ut_r4iq5W72Yp9k7tBb4Xq88sboMgznCdTzGFmkyPhhkW_sNj/s1517/283475567_336301871977833_2883949545692658489_n%20(2).jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1124" data-original-width="1517" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeQWMltWqPfx8ID1k9nM22C6kEBYEaWmbyV9Wo1YoZzGw973MGDO_65lGkwIglVh3MS5jaJJSutHGIdGCWRVKl_qTEYyoCGi-pK5Wwlszz2DhAGuhstWdC0vjmT0hAPqd5RYd_Gw1Ut_r4iq5W72Yp9k7tBb4Xq88sboMgznCdTzGFmkyPhhkW_sNj/w400-h296/283475567_336301871977833_2883949545692658489_n%20(2).jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Playing bass is super important to me and so getting back into that was a top priority. After 7 weeks I started practising sitting down with my cheap and light chinese bass. By 9 weeks I could play my heavy Fender Jazz Pro2 while standing up. At 14 weeks I have successfully performed 3 times at Sharkey's Bar and am hoping to perform at Rolleston this coming Sunday.<p></p><p>I was chuffed to discover that Suzi Quatro turned 72 this month and plays the same Fender bass as I do. Such good company.<br /></p><p>Along with progress in bass playing you can find me back in my garden mowing, trimming, weeding, raking. Yes folks, last week I managed to mow both my lawns and do the edges all by myself. It took longer than it used to but I am being cautious, listening to my body and not pushing things, other than mowers, about.</p><p>Yesterday I got to exercise my democratic rights. I went to the Alliance Française to vote in France's legislative elections, from New
Zealand. I was too busy recovering from surgery to take part in the
presidential elections a few months ago so I was determined not to miss
out this time. I have dual
nationality and was voting for who would represent French expats around the world, I consider it a real privilege of my citizenship to be
able to vote in French elections for the rest of my life. NZ does not
afford its citizens the same rights. If you are overseas and don't come
back regularly for holidays you lose your right to vote after only 3 years. I never had the
money to come back here when I lived in France so I lost the right to
vote in NZ elections. It should be an automatic right as a citizen but I
find NZ's rules on many things quite draconian and harmful. <br /></p><p></p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3WbX-kjLxa0oBnGUc36mHmF1BhJIvORIv97Yu3no-NnOz5uZu74Qi1rnWxoq7E76_yeOXC54YBdBYxnqoVUr4BsPAYt9TkLE-uuhNIf45KYFu_PLKzRyepGBJqRP--EykIZ1I4d6kTbusHekBV3S0KxC8Se5TSckAPpkwDLLVlXsOtFGt7mBzkLrl/s1280/main-EN-4.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3WbX-kjLxa0oBnGUc36mHmF1BhJIvORIv97Yu3no-NnOz5uZu74Qi1rnWxoq7E76_yeOXC54YBdBYxnqoVUr4BsPAYt9TkLE-uuhNIf45KYFu_PLKzRyepGBJqRP--EykIZ1I4d6kTbusHekBV3S0KxC8Se5TSckAPpkwDLLVlXsOtFGt7mBzkLrl/w400-h225/main-EN-4.png" width="400" /></a>It
was a pleasure to enter the 'French World' again. I had to present my National
Identity card, then a kind lady let me look at the candidate pages on
her laptop because those two candidates had not been my original choice
so I had to choose again. Luckily I can read French fairly quickly. Then
I had to take the voting slips for the second round candidates (only 2
left) choose one and place it in the brown envelope and ditch the other in the
rubbish bin. One then posts the envelope in the plastic receptacle and
you sign your name on the electoral role for French expats. I accidently
started to sign as I normally do and had to scribble it out as I had
forgotten that France handles all administration in my maiden name and I
could no longer remember how to sign that as I haven't had that surname
since 1976. So I had to make up a signature. Normally there are two
rounds of voting but NZ is so far away from everything that consular
mail from the French overseas department never gets here <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqVSnq5dLQDBz1Af2IUMByShlURlYQGEA_UxOzcEG1oOVB-t7rzLeS8-LOLHnVBidV70dFpPDkRwF2GmF1WpJFase-c5gMe04ia-sgIWiSeRoZLQbVhlQfpu0Z7UfLEXJL1UXouasr9kLaiOqjLn0jYZs0b0I4k_VCMsfQVbn7aldg_aHH6qSfaWZ4/s864/thumbs_b_c_309922beb7a690e1e4ce720cac99201c.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="486" data-original-width="864" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqVSnq5dLQDBz1Af2IUMByShlURlYQGEA_UxOzcEG1oOVB-t7rzLeS8-LOLHnVBidV70dFpPDkRwF2GmF1WpJFase-c5gMe04ia-sgIWiSeRoZLQbVhlQfpu0Z7UfLEXJL1UXouasr9kLaiOqjLn0jYZs0b0I4k_VCMsfQVbn7aldg_aHH6qSfaWZ4/s320/thumbs_b_c_309922beb7a690e1e4ce720cac99201c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>in time for us
to vote in the first round. I enjoyed speaking a bit of French yesterday.
It perked me up for the rest of the day, feeling at ease being bilingual in that special world even if my vote won't count for much. It's still great to have it. So far the abstention rate is a heavy 54%. At least I'm not part of that. Emmanuel Macron's parliamentary majority seems to have disappeared so a lot of his politicians may be looking for jobs. <br /><p>I was startled to be contacted by a couple of headhunters recently, looking for someone to do communications work at my local council. I should have been ideal, I redid my CV and was given an interview at the HR agency only to have it cancelled suddenly that day. They said they had now resourced it. Hmm, I smell a rat. Contact with that agency wasn't friendly or competent from their end but I was still disappointed. The usual job application nonsense means you never hear if your candidature is received, if anything positive or negative came of all the time you put in to redoing your CV and writing a unique cover letter. Agencies are as bad as dealing with companies directly. There is one more opportunity possible from a different agency which sounds much more friendly and helpful. We'll see, it's for about a year's duration - a big commitment.<br /></p><p>I'm keenly aware that my social life revolves around musical activities which I love and I am most grateful to those musicians who have made the effort to prepare songs with me, perform and support me and be endearing friends. Unfortunately that's not enough and I haven't found a significant other since JC in 2011. I spend most of my days pottering at home and now that I am feeling more energetic I decided I should make one more attempt at finding a special companion. Music will always have an important place in my life but opportunities to play are very infrequent or unreliable in nature so I have decided to look for the best sort of company - someone special through online dating. I've been down this road before as long-time readers will know. I am very aware of the pitfalls and disappointments, the scams, the discourtesies but there is no other alternative. I need to remain optimistic and cautious at the same time. If I don't try I can't succeed in challenges. As the cold weather really settles in I'd love to have more indoor social options to add more richness to my life. Here's hoping I find just that.<br /></p>Frances Lawsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08107995840713193160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5507816931969163563.post-20535538270141356742022-05-01T15:59:00.002-07:002022-12-04T22:07:41.404-08:00OHS - The road to recovery<p> <br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVgnDHJIlQ8nOsJ1aqjGlSWljT0hE9oCqhn_4ACfa3VgrEhYTyKr6yvb5QskMtfymsf1ZQIMWANWNOpo84LDZI0cm2Gs6Rlx9Xl7zGqfycELHVq0QOonzVk6lahEPtlLPDJ0x3Kc9vUo66EEt3Nrrv-VKLxEnyihh2rmFaPtObuaV68RD6NXR8owLH/s1124/276987413_10158727836723133_9091510094914184761_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1124" data-original-width="843" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVgnDHJIlQ8nOsJ1aqjGlSWljT0hE9oCqhn_4ACfa3VgrEhYTyKr6yvb5QskMtfymsf1ZQIMWANWNOpo84LDZI0cm2Gs6Rlx9Xl7zGqfycELHVq0QOonzVk6lahEPtlLPDJ0x3Kc9vUo66EEt3Nrrv-VKLxEnyihh2rmFaPtObuaV68RD6NXR8owLH/w300-h400/276987413_10158727836723133_9091510094914184761_n.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>Open Heart Surgery is a traumatic event that for many patients has consequences for which they are unprepared. Doctors tend not to discuss many recovery details with heart patients. They simply say not to lift the equivalnt of a 2L milk container etc and don't drive. Each patient is an individual and so has their own unique journey to good health but there are common issues. This post looks at those and also my particular experiences. I hope this will be of assistance to those going through surgery or supporting others who do. Remember, it could happen to you, right out of the blue so no apologies for length and (sometimes graphic) detail.<br /><p></p><p>For context: I had two open heart surgeries within 24 hours. The first was to repair (unsuccessfully) my mitral valve or replace it with a tissue valve (successful) If only that was the end of that stage. </p><p>My second was an emergency later that day due to a blood clot and uncontrolled bleeding from the sac (pericardium) surrounding my heart. It was touch and go. That means twice my chest was opened, ribs spread, heart stopped while on the bypass machine and heavy anaesthesia, chest wired up. I spent 4 days in ICU instead of one and remember nothing from that time. Having to go through this brutal surgery twice really set me back. Once on the ward things started to get interesting.<br /></p><p><b>Hallucinations</b></p><p>This can be as a result of the anaesthesia and heavy duty medicines. I thought I had pustules growing around and up my neck on the right side. I could certainly feel them - scabby mushrooms? So I started trying to pick them off. I had no mirror so I couldn't see anything. It amounted to self-mutilation under 'the influence'. The scabby bits, I worked out a couple of weeks later, were all the sticky residues from the ECG electrodes. I still have the scars from clawing at myself.</p><p>Even weirder was the bat. On a number of occasions I watched a tiny NZ bat swooping ever so swiftly around the ward. I could barely keep up with it but I suspect I saw it with my eyes closed. When I mentioned the bat to the nurses, they pointed out the windows didn't open so there was no way a bat could enter. Hmmm! Hallucinations, nightmares and delusions are common in hospital and can continue at home. Someone said they could see Turkish dancing girls in their room, another had an Aladdin experience on a magic carpet. I blame the betablocker I am on for nightmares at home while not asleep.<br /></p><p><b>Lizard</b></p><p>When I got home and had a close look at myself in the bathroom I was shocked by the state I was in. Muscle-wasting was extreme after three weeks confined to bed. My body looked 20 years older. The skin on my chest was peeling in sheets. Why? Apparently hair, skin and nails are the lowest priority for the body when in major repair mode. Too sore to touch, I left it to sort itself out.<br /></p><p><b>The incision</b></p><p>This came as no surprise but it was still a bit hard to take that it was permanently a feature of ME and not someone else. You cannot know in advance what your 'zipper' will be like. You have to accept this less attractive addition to your physionomy, however it ends up, as the price for staying alive. It seemed to be healing up fairly well but often with women there is a large 'pouch at the top'. Someone said it was tissue pulled there to start the stitching process as on many of us there is mostly skin and bone and not enough to attach to. I don't know if that is true. This was never discussed by doctors in advance. Mine is still there at two months. It is supremely painful at all times, tender and hates anything touching it, like clothing, but needs protecting from sun. I understand that over time it will flatten out. I sure hope so. The rest of my chest is super-sensitive or numb. Muscles, nerves and ligaments have been cut so they need to grow back but this doesn't always happen in an organised way, not like when they originally developed in the womb. </p><p>I am happy that my sternum seems stable. Some folks feel it move and pop despite the stainless steel wires holding things together. Along with the main vertical incision, I have four other 'holes' in my torso. There are two rather unsightly ones below the main incision that were used to drain my chest. There is another on my right side on my ribs where another drain was in for my lungs. On the left is a smaller wound where a second lung drain had to go in later to drain fluid accumulating on my left lung (pleural effusion). The local anaesthetic for that incision was very painful. I am currently experimenting with my home-grown aloe vera leaves - smearing the inside gel on semi-healed areas to see if that aids skin healing. Note, healed does not mean without scarring.<br /></p><p><b>The fridge</b></p><p>In the early days you really need to be mindful of what you are doing every second. Case in point: I tried to open the fridge door but the fridge had migrated to the left and I couldn't get my hand down the side to pull it open so I did what I would normally do. I endeavoured to pull the entire fridge to the right with my left fingers. Yep, just for a nanosecond I forgot I had had OHS but I was reminded VERY painfully immediately afterwards and every day since. I definitely put my left side chest on the healing back foot with that instant of carelessness. I am hoping it will eventually heal but my left pectoral and sternum are still very angry every second of the day and night. In fact sternal pain per se is rather worrying at present so I am looking forward to discussing this at my next checkup at the hospital. i do hope I haven't stuffed myself up.<br /></p><p><b>Damaged vocal chords </b></p><p>Being inturbated in ICU for four days instead of one has had a distressing effect on my singing voice. It is currently munted. If I can weakly find the note, I can't hold it, it cuts out and only silence is left. There is no power or volume control and certainly no tone, just sounds like cotton wool. No control at all, though if I push hard I can get the right note. I will have to be patient and seek advice maybe from a vocal coach as I need to be able to sing as before.<br /></p><p><b>Exercise</b></p><p>This is a biggie. There was so much weakness from being confined to bed I found I could not get onto the ground or get up. Walking down the hallway was shaky, everything physical was difficult. The only solution is to keep moving. Walking is the number one method to gently get better. Despite the nausea and dizziness I made sure I went for a short walk most days, accompanied in case I fell over. Be careful reaching and bending in the first weeks but eventually you need to test what you can do and do it, gradually introducing small tasks. I simply don't know my limits until I reach them.<br /></p><p><b>Problems with medications</b></p><p>This one is massive and the bane of my life. I came home with a pharmacy which I had to swallow for breakfast and through the day. They are powerful drugs and they don't like hanging out together. They made me very ill and set back my healing process. More on that further down. <br /></p><p><b>Ineffective home help </b></p><p>I was visited by an organisation designed to help folks like me in the community, especially those of us who live alone. It is free but limited. Someone would arrive once a day Monday to Friday to help with exercise. The first two days consisted of doing little exercises (such as lifting my leg) standing at my kitchen island. This was not challenging, rather it was boring. I told them I needed to walk so from then on, weather permitting, I would go for a 15 minute accompanied walk. It wasn't easy but each couple of days I would try to extend it by the space of a few houses. Some of the walkers were happy to take 'shortcuts' and bugger off asap.</p><p>Meal prep assistance consisted of a total of 20 mins cutting vegetables. There was no cooking. I found myself getting stressed trying to work out what the person could do that would actually help, what sort of meal should be done? I still had to cook it. When I suggested to one helper that they harvest strawberries and raspberrries they had no idea what a strawberry plant with strawberries on it looked like. They had no concept of a salad spinner or how to chop spring onions. I decided that cutting potatoes in half into a steamer wasn't really helping me much. I eventually told the organisation not to bother. They were too inflexible; would not reduce the days but increase the time allowance for me. If I had any appetite at all I would try to eat healthy stuff but meat was often too heavy and I would resort to the easiest thing I could find - crisps and homegrown fruit, yoghurt. Severe nausea and lack of appetite is common.</p><p>I would have preferred a nurse to visit several times a week to check my vitals and reassure me. Instead I regularly had to pay to see a general practitioner to even have my blood pressure checked. Over the course of nearly 5 weeks at home I only had a nurse check me three times on a home visit. He was very good though.<br /></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaarBgnA7SW2X9fMMN-isDIQ2Hb6Crn0eGPB-9uxcrJBsYk6tN1ExqoOwPPo1S8_KEuxoDQFp1PtU5thpvYC2-raAMrZdgh15KQok1Isu0SZPl-VF_nMcAYP9zqXaWfwIpUuNrEcQZFUXM1tiyeXzZZuV4ZraSUu4NyCmNqj9KKo_G5Ov03dXAw5qE/s960/277007174_10158716184678133_6489484967089116898_n.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaarBgnA7SW2X9fMMN-isDIQ2Hb6Crn0eGPB-9uxcrJBsYk6tN1ExqoOwPPo1S8_KEuxoDQFp1PtU5thpvYC2-raAMrZdgh15KQok1Isu0SZPl-VF_nMcAYP9zqXaWfwIpUuNrEcQZFUXM1tiyeXzZZuV4ZraSUu4NyCmNqj9KKo_G5Ov03dXAw5qE/w300-h400/277007174_10158716184678133_6489484967089116898_n.jpg" width="300" /></a><b>Re-admission</b></p><p> Despite three weeks post op in hospital followed by almost 3 weeks at home, I found I wasn't feeling much better. Pain in my stomach, bowel and chest increased to unbearable levels. In the wee small hours of my 67th birthday I desperately called Healthline to enquire if I should call an ambulance or not. I didn't want to over-react but I was desperate. I found the service inefficient and distressing as the call centre only asked preprepared questions after I had waited a very long time just for my call to be picked up. There was only one nurse on for the entire country. I was in a queue. It was 40 minutes before I got through to the nurse who ended up calling me an ambulance. The Rolleston one was busy in Akaroa so I had to wait for one from Christchurch. The guys were well trained and thorough. The emergency department is spacious (they could cope wth another disaster) but lacks the staffing so even via ambulance there is a lot of waiting, then the covid test, then the IV is inserted. One doctor didn't like the fact I knew about stuff and understood medical terminology but a young cardiologist listened to me and the nurses were kind, even sometimes holding my hand to calm my distress.<br /></p><p>After a chest Xray showed my pleural effusion was resolving itself there was uncertainty about what could be causing such pain and nausea. I suggested they investigate the gastrointestinal angle. It was eventually agreed that the mountain of powerful meds was damaging my esophagus, stomach and bowel. A senior cardiologist reduced my med intake by 2/3 but recovery would take time. I stayed in hospital 3.5 days while they trialled things and tried to get my motionless for 8 days bowel to operate. All the nasty stuff failed so in the wee small hours of the final day they resorted to the Fleet enema. That helped a bit. Wish they had done that at the beginning. The senior cardiologist felt I should now be on the mend to cope alone at home but that I would have good days and bad days (so true). "I think you're going to be dangerous," he said as he left. Weeks later I am still trying to imagine that.<br /></p><p><b>Insomnia</b></p><p>This is a huge problem for me, possibly caused by one of my meds blocking my melatonin. Something also interferes with the workings of sleeping pills so begging for those hasn't been a real solution. I don't know what is, as I get no healing sleep and have to handle the chest pain 24/7. <br /></p><p><b>Psychological healing</b></p><p>This is another important aspect ignored by medical perssonnel. I knew that anxiety, depression and PTSD are common for OHS patients but individual attention by 'someone' is needed, especially if you live alone and don't have access to hugs and cuddles in your dark moments. On one very 'dark' evening I had to call a friend. He kindly popped over for a chat. The next day I was feeling better but there are random days when waves of anxiety wash over me for no apparent reason. This recovery period can be quite tortuous. Platitudes by well-meaning folks don't help. Company is needed and a listening ear though I found this rather restricted by covid precautions.<br /></p><p><b>Contributions by friends after my daughter had gone back home<br /></b></p><p>I found this awesome. I have few good friends, having moved around a lot in my life. Through my music I have met some folks who genuinely want to help in practical ways and this has been a bit of a life-saver for me: driving me to appointments, taking me to get my groceries, helping with lawn mowing and gardening and housework, popping over for a jam session, accompanying me on walks around the block, dropping off a meal. These forms of assistance and caring really have helped take some of the huge stress off coping on one's own. I will never forget the help I have received from friends and neighbours and I still need some help as it is early days. It took me a week to adjust emotionally from spending a week at home
with my daughter looking after me. I missed her terribly because she is
the only person with whom I have a close emotional attachment but the
support of friends and neigbours kept me going. At least I now have my driver license back. I have had to learn to accept help but I will always prefer to be independent, of course.<br /></p><p>I have a long way to go and things could continue to challenge my fortitude but I really want to get back to the active life I had, without constant pain though (as is currently the case), tending my garden, performing with my bass and making new friends. </p><p><b><span style="font-size: medium;">In all this journey, it is friends and family who prove they can be counted on that have made such a positive contribution to my healing. Thank you, literally, from the bottom of my heart.</span></b><br /></p>Frances Lawsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08107995840713193160noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5507816931969163563.post-18341943430632981482022-04-02T21:45:00.005-07:002022-12-04T22:08:03.674-08:00OHS The main event<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBPG0Qi6Qgm5wZOkDuZbCaZa7v5MZCa8yDKc4xD3G3xbaV1KV8bWCwwen_5jPVwani3k-Zx9_DW-Tl20qHo4cgvLqfbz1sgSxiTMBUqoz42qCcLRsCtctF1yvgJ2AKLajPbE6YNjIs_D6B92cbqbMHpXUket2El4QyHbSUDFXXCob_G5bCqoSXggzI/s360/360_F_300276759_T8xj0su5RNwcQhIPkQ459fsmPfNgkVe4.webp" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="240" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBPG0Qi6Qgm5wZOkDuZbCaZa7v5MZCa8yDKc4xD3G3xbaV1KV8bWCwwen_5jPVwani3k-Zx9_DW-Tl20qHo4cgvLqfbz1sgSxiTMBUqoz42qCcLRsCtctF1yvgJ2AKLajPbE6YNjIs_D6B92cbqbMHpXUket2El4QyHbSUDFXXCob_G5bCqoSXggzI/s320/360_F_300276759_T8xj0su5RNwcQhIPkQ459fsmPfNgkVe4.webp" width="213" /></a></div><p>[photo not of me]</p><p>The day finally arrived when I was admitted to Christchurch hospital 3pm the day before my newly scheduled open heart surgery. I had already wistfully said goodbye to my current physical body, knowing I would not look the same again. I was not particularly nervous this close to things as I simply followed what staff told me to do and adjusted to being in hospital. I'd had more time to be nervous in the lead-up. It is risky. I find it annoying when people say "Oh you'll be fine. It's so routine these days." Bullshit! It is NOT routine for anyone going through this and surgeons know anything can happen. And it did.</p><p></p><p>I had a chest Xray, blood tests and an IV put in (uggghh!). I never noticed when I 'went under' in the operating room the next day. I just thought it was quite a big room with medical personnel preparing equipment. The next thing I remember hearing was medical staff discussing which day it was. I went under on a Tuesday. Apparently it was now Saturday. I could not understand how I had lost 4 days. My surgeon and registrar later explained: Things did not go as hoped. My surgeon tried to repair my mitral valve but found it was too far gone (no surprise there). She decided a bioprosthetic valve needed to replace it. I had already said NO to a mechanical valve as I don't want to be on blood thinners the rest of my life. The surgeon completed her work and went home. I was sent to ICU. I have stainless steel wires holding my sternum together. They are probably permanent<br /></p><p>However, a few hours later she was called back to the hospital in urgency. I had to be opened up again. There was a blood clot and the edge of the pericardium had uncontrolled bleeding. There was also a lot of fluid pouring from the drain in my chest. These issues were corrected and I was sent back to ICU for an extended stay (originally expected 1 day). My poor daughter had to go through a very anxious time to see if I would pull through.</p><p>By day 4 in ICU they exturbated me. No wonder my voice is a mess at present and my throat is still sore. I remember catching a first glimpse of my hands back on Ward 10. They looked like puff balls. I was full of oedema but the meds gradually sorted that out. My days consisted of swallowing a horrendous amount of medication, being tortured by phlebotomists/vampires - many of whom failed to get a vein the first or second times they tried. My blood pressure was consistently low so I ended up with a couple of blood transfusions. My chest hurt. A lot. The main drains had been removed, the bladder catheter was removed once I was back on the ward but they took out one of my side drains and an IV line. Mistake. A few days later I had to have a procedure involving an incision in the side of my back to insert a new drain after waiting for blood thinners to clear my system. The local anaesthetic was truly painful. I think I vocally let them know I was not passively being sliced into again. Half a litre of fluid drained off the lung sac within 30 minutes so it was certainly necessary. The drain remained in for several days.</p><p>You don't get any sleep in hospital. There is too much groaning, coughing, farting, medical observations to be done, and pain. I had some morphine and paracetamol, that's all and by the time I left 3 weeks later, all I was allowed was paracetamol. The nurses were generally very nice. I quickly learned to refuse more blood test attempts each day if the phlebotomist couldn't get the needle in properly by the second attempt. I told them to go away and get someone competent. Most of the time this worked but by 3 weeks my arms were packing it in - black and blue with veins running for the hills.</p><p>The food is better than expected and I learned to wear adult pull-up underwear as the laxatives kicked in. Any coughing or sneezing meant I had to hug a folded sheet to try to protect my split sternum from the pressure. Yes, it hurts a lot. This is the most difficult physical thing I have gone through in my life. Some have it easier, some worse. I was a bit unlucky but I have survived and I mean to get better/ fitness-wise than I was before. That is going to take a lot of time and work and patience. <br /></p><p>Covid 19 means you cannot have friends and family visit - just one designated person. My daughter arrived from Palmerston North. She had hoped to be down to look after me for 3 weeks after my operation but my very lengthy stay in hospital (3 weeks instead of 5-7 days) meant she spent most of her time at my place, on her own, trying not to get covid. Such a shame.</p><p>Thank you to those of you who followed posts on my progress. Although I was too weak t participate on Facebook I did read the comments. My next blogpost will look at the process of going home and trying to rebuild body and psyche.</p><p><i>Photo not of me.</i><br /></p>Frances Lawsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08107995840713193160noreply@blogger.com2