Choco Mumbo Jumbo

Chocolate Monday - week 4

2012-01-30T06:30:00.000+02:00

Dare I put this out there, but this has got to be the best. chocolate. Monday. ever! Okay, let me explain. S.O* and his family came over to talk about the wedding. Tradition dictates he give me chocolates for the event. He told me: "I bought your favourite chocolate." I asked which one and he simply said I will see it on the day. I didn't expect more that a box of Raffaelloes. He walks in carrying the parcel below:

The parcel of chocolates from S.O and his family.

A close up of the goodies.

Unwrapped and ready to be eaten hastily!

Needless to say I was beyond pleasantly surprised! I mean, look at that beautiful bounty of all my favourites! Oh my, oh my! I swear I will get into a chocolate induced coma quite happily. After he left, he told me: "Was going to put Nutella in there but know you have a tub so left it." Aw...

Now where do I begin?!

*S.O = Significant Other
Chocolate Mondays have been created to banish Monday Blues, or at least lessen the sting of a new working week.

If I could shut my brain down for a bit, I would

2012-01-26T14:18:00.000+02:00

Recently, I've been irritable, listless and needing some down time. Work wise, I have not really taken decent leave since April 2011 and you know what? I think I have reached the end of my tolerance threshold.

December was a crazy, and I mean an absolutely insane month, having taken on some responsibilities of a colleague who had resigned, plus having had new tasks added to that. Burnt-out and frustrated, that is what I am. I am also so annoyed by how companies everywhere are treating employees in this current economic climate - it is really not fair! It makes me want to punch many CEOs!

I have been fantasising about taking leave from my life, even if it is for a short while. Venture off to an adventure where I am anonymous and not accountable. Dangerous, I know. But what is a gal to do? S.O* and I are hoping to set a date for a wedding in March next year - the families will meet this Sunday to discuss it. Yeah, that is how my little ethnic community operates. Sigh. We want to get a house and make it into a home. I want to begin our life, under our roof and I cannot wait for that. Yet, me and marriage go together like wearing a bikini in a snow storm. I feel I am going against my very nature. (If you need to remember just how much I am against marriage, read this post.)

My dreams have also been vivid and downright odd. I've been waking up long before my alarm, recalling them perfectly, only to fall asleep and have the dreams fall through my memory. That makes me sad. I remember one dream could have been a great fictional story and now I cannot bloody remember it. I wish I could kick myself at times.

I have also been reading a lot less that what I usually do. This is not because I have a low supply of books. No, it is because I am too tired in the evenings! When I do read, I manage a few pages, before I realise I am not concentrating and the book is falling out of my hands. Another reason to kick myself!

This post perfectly reflects my state of mind: scattered, unfocused and downright grumpy.If you managed to read it till the end, a huge congratulations to you. Thanks for lending an eye to my venting session.

*S.O = Significant Other

Chocolate Monday: Week 3

2012-01-23T06:39:00.001+02:00

Picture found here: Imgfave.

It is a morning filled with dense, grey clouds and mist that hovers around like ghosts. This is very unusual for Johannesburg, but I do so love it. It is perfect for an indulgent lie-in but alas, it is Monday! It makes me crave things like hot chocolate and biscuits.

Talking about chocolate, S.O* asked yesterday:
"So...how many blocks of chocolate is okay for consumption? Just had six small blocks - the small ones. Hmm....dammit this fruit and nut [chocolate]."
My gut response: there is never enough chocolate that can be consumed!

*S.O = Significant Other
Chocolate Mondays have been created to banish Monday Blues, or at least lessen the sting of a new working week.

Chocolate Monday: Week 2

2012-01-16T06:38:00.000+02:00

Oh my word, this Monday is turning out to be annoying! Even though it is only 6:30am, the following has happened:

The boom into my office parking lot did not open, after numerous attempts of inserting the access card. So I drove around the block again to speak to one of those attendants. "I will let my supervisor to meet you there," the idiot says. So I wait, and wait, and bloody wait some more. Eventually, I decided to park outside and walk up. Oh, I will have words with that parking office today!
The doors of the elevator refused to close. On the fifth attempt, they did though. The fifth attempt!
The milk in my cornflakes did not taste good at all. I had to spit it out and throw out my breakfast. I never really knew that Soy Milk can go bad...
To top all of this off, I only got in about 4 hours sleep last night. I almost feel as if the universe is telling me that is is a day to stay under my duvet, where I can be safe from agitations.

This Chocolate Monday oozes goodness. And I really need some of that to rub off onto me today.

Chocolate Mondays have been created to banish Monday Blues, or at least lessen the sting of a new working week.

Driving debacles

2012-01-13T06:54:00.000+02:00

Imagine getting ticketed for 'driving too slow'? It happened to my dear friends driving around in the Gulf, and I have to say, I am appalled. I think cops should prioritise helping people in need (my friends were lost and trying to figure out where they were) instead of going on that power trip of issuing tickets.

It ties in to the cops here is South Africa. Across the highway, they sit in various spots with their cameras to ticket speedsters. While I do not mind this because some drivers are absolutely reckless speed demons, their presence has irked some South Africans.

In one of the spots, someone spray painted the word "Asshole" with arrows pointing to the cop with the camera. Tsk tsk. That was removed, and after a few days I saw "Asshole" was replaced with "Still a asshole". While that is grammatically incorrect, I still snickered. "Still a asshole" was painted over and while there was a few days of peace....it now says: "Ok ok dipshit". LOL, really I laughed out loud when I saw this. Further down the highway on the opposite side, I only noticed this morning someone painted on different spot: "Another baboon". Someone clearly has issues with the cops!

PS: Happy Friday the 13th!

Chocolate Monday: Week 1

2012-01-09T06:16:00.000+02:00

I was not one of the scant cars on the road this morning, which means most people are back at work today. It could mean more of a shock to your system since it was a pretty long break for most people. I worked right through though, so a holiday is screaming for existence, but that is another blog post all on its own.

Drum roll, please, for the first Chocolate Monday of the new year! I reckon most people will feel like this today, especially today:

Picture sourced from Imgfave.
Chocolate Mondays have been created to banish Monday Blues, or at least lessen the sting of a new working week.

Don't you love it when books speak to your heart and soul?

2012-01-01T19:08:00.001+02:00

"My dad says that being a Londoner has nothing to do with where you're born. He says there are people who get off a jumbo jet at Heathrow, go through immigration waving any kind of passport, hop onto a tube and by the time the train's pulled into Piccadilly Circus they've become a Londoner."
- Moon over Soho by Ben Aaronovitch

I think my heart and soul cannot be in more agreement.

Well, that's that, then!

2011-12-29T16:05:00.000+02:00

What sort of a year has 2011 been? Personally, it's been filled with:
...denial, anger, pain, frustration, bitterness and hurt.
...hiding, isolation, loneliness, solitude and confusion.
...a blur of remorse and tears.
...a fight to keep the threads of my life sewn and to keep on breathing.
...forgetting my passions like writing, cooking, reading and blogging. Thereby forgetting myself too.

And because of all the above, the last two months or so has been filled with:
...rebirth, renewal and revitalisation.
...an re-awakening of all my senses.
...promises to build a better 2012 - and onwards.
...talk of engagements and weddings. (My own! Eek! God, help me!)
...hunting for a place to call home.

So I reckon 2012 has gotta be better - full of those sorta huge life changes. And I hope it is not my misguided optimism at this time of the year. Maybe S.O* and I are on our way to a Happily Ever After.

These two secrets from Postsecret pulled at my heart:

Finally, a very happy new year to you! May 2012 fulfil every wish and dream, even those in the deep corners of your imagination. Shine and thrive, everyone!

*S.O= Significant Other

Chocolate Monday

2011-12-12T06:09:00.001+02:00

This, quite obviously, does not apply to me - I am always eating chocolate. But does this apply to you? Image found here.
Chocolate Mondays have been created to banish Monday Blues, or at least lessen the sting of a new working week.

Gotta keep on going

2011-12-07T06:22:00.001+02:00

December slow down...what December slow down? My happy fantasies about work getting a bit more quiet are being dashed day by day. My mind and body feels like it needs to shut down and enjoy doing nothing. But alas, the Big Work Monster rears its ugly, slobbering face and demands more time. I guess that is the nature of the media so lemme continue to write and write and write...and get on with it. Whimpering certainly won't help me tick off my to do list!

Chocolate Monday

2011-11-28T06:24:00.001+02:00

I think the chocolate cake made into a castle is a divine idea! I would like to dig in! Picture found here.
Chocolate Mondays have been created to banish Monday Blues, or at least lessen the sting of a new working week.
P.S: Is it just me or are Mondays become more cruel and harsh?... Waking up has never been such a horrendously difficult task! My brain still feels fuzzy even though it is already 6:27am. Even though I am already work, I am so tempted to go back into the parking lot and have a nap in my car! Sigh...

And to help make Chocolate Monday become Chocolate Seven-Days-A-Week, my dear friend and Editor, gave me this book. It is her last day at work today and as testament to her kind soul, she is the one giving her work colleagues presents, when she is the one leaving! A very huge 'Thank You' to her. Lord knows, she will be sorely missed. As for her new path, I hope it is filled with many wanders, words galore, laughs, beach holidays and tales to enthral!
The recipe book is packed with over 300 treats - more than enough to make you want to live on chocolate alone.

Show us the real Prixie, please!

2011-11-21T14:37:00.001+02:00

Recently, I have been finding it very hard to stay up beyond 9pm. I start reading a book and not even 10 minutes later I am struggling to keep my eyes open. I fall asleep minutes after starting to watch a TV program or movie.

I have noticed that since I stopped freelancing and got a full time job, my time for reading and other leisure activities has been greatly reduced and this is extremely saddening. Tiredness seems to be with me constantly... maybe it because I wake up so early to be at work at 6am. Crazy, right?

I actually hardly recognise myself any longer. Who is this person, working full time? Yawning most of the time? Paying off debit orders galore? And having so little me-time? Who are you and what have you done with Prixie?

Chocolate Monday

2011-11-21T06:23:00.001+02:00

Nutella - in art form. Picture found here.

Chocolate Mondays have been created to banish Monday Blues, or at least lessen the sting of a new working week.

Chocolate Monday

2011-11-14T06:13:00.001+02:00

It's been awfully hot recently - summer has definitely arrived. I think these chocolate coated kiwi fruit is a great idea, especially for these sort of hot days. Image found here.

Chocolate Mondays have been created to banish Monday Blues, or at least lessen the sting of a new working week.

Don't you hate it when...

2011-11-09T06:48:00.000+02:00

...you get into the bath and you realise you have left your towel in your bedroom. It happened to me last night, but luckily the Female Parental Unit (FPU) was at home and this is the conversation that ensued:

Me, screaming as if I was at a concert: "Maaaaaa! Maaaaaaaaaa!"
FPU: Yes?
Me: I forgot my towels. Please can you bring them?
FPU: Where is it? In your room?
Me: Yeah, the two pink ones!
I hear her going into my room, and then walking back to the bathroom door. Silence.
Me: Are you there?
FPU: Yes.
Me: Then you can open the door. Nothing you haven't seen before! (After all she is my mother!)
FPU opened the door a small bit, and threw in my fluffy pink towels.
Happiness!

Chocolate Monday

2011-11-07T06:29:00.000+02:00

Picture found here.

Chocolate Mondays have been created to banish Monday Blues, or at least lessen the sting of a new working week.

Sharing the sunrise

2011-11-02T13:26:00.002+02:00

Now that it is summer in South Africa, the sun is rising as I leave the house in the morning for work. Sometimes the sunrise is bleh, meh or simply stunning. Here is a picture of one with lovely colours that looks like it was soaked with the strokes of a happy artist.

Chocolate Monday

2011-10-31T06:31:00.000+02:00

I am back at work after a four day weekend and feeling sorry for myself. This milk and biscuits picture is comfort food at it's best, which is really what I need at the moment. Picture found here.

Oh and as an additional note, Happy Halloween to everyone! And a very Happy-Would-Have-Been-Birthday to me. The Female-Parental-Unit's doctor estimated my date of birth as 31 October but I decided to pop out prematurely on 21 August. I think a Halloween birthday would have suited my personality much better though.

Will you watch "Once Upon a Time"?

2011-10-25T11:53:00.002+02:00

This new TV series, Once Upon a Time, premièred in the USA over the weekend. As readers of this blog will know, I simply adore fairy tales. And this is a creation from the makers of Lost so I expect it to be all sorts of intriguing and awesome. Now if only I can wish upon a star, or my Fairy Godmother, for this to get to South African television screens as fast as possible!

Chocolate Monday

2011-10-24T06:22:00.001+02:00

I love the look of this pretty dessert. Considering that we are experiencing heat wave conditions now in Johannesburg, I would love to eat this right now. Picture sourced from Imgfave.
Chocolate Mondays have been created to banish Monday Blues, or at least lessen the sting of a new working week.

When I hit the road

2011-10-20T06:47:00.001+02:00

I live quite far from work so I spend a lot of time on one of South Africa's major highways. Here are a few thoughts, pet peeves, observations and what not:

I hate it when trucks, vans, buses, lorries and any other big, heavy vehicle moves into the fast or second fast lane. They will inevitably slow down on an up hill.
If a car passes me really fast, my 'Lil One feels like it is going to veer off my driving lane. The same happens the minute the wind picks up.Yes I drive a very little car and it is very light, in comparison to other vehicles.
People stare at the (fake) sun flower I attached to my aerial. It makes kids smile and wave at me, sometimes adults too!
Said sun flower sometimes acts like a beacon for some drivers - I assume they get scared of a "girl" driver and stay far behind me. That actually suits me just fine.
Those who drive smart, expensive and fast cars (yes, you who drive BMWs, Mercs, Volvos, Lexus and 4x4s) tend to be very impatient and aggressive on the road.
Mini bus taxis really do stop anywhere on the road and at any time. And they make their own rules on the road and do not follow existing rules! They really do make me so damn mad.
That said, I think I suffer from, ahem, road rage - after all when you are driving, it is everyone else who is in the wrong.
Over taking metro cops makes me feel so guilty, even though I am within the speed limit. I irrationally feel they will want to pull me over and fine me on the spot!
People rarely stick to the speed limit in the fast lane.
In cases of grid locked traffic, which happens very often in Johannesburg, I loath those who make the emergency lane an additional driving lane, then gap in at a later stage. Those assholes tend to make traffic only worse!
In conclusion, I generally do not like driving. If Johannesburg had a wide network of safe and reliable public transport, I would be the first to use it.

Chocolate Monday

2011-10-17T07:40:00.001+02:00

If you're a Harry Potter fan, this will make you laugh...and eat loads of chocolate. Image found here.

If you need an explanation, here is how Remus Lupin explains it to Harry:

"Dementors are among the foulest creatures that walk this earth. They infest the darkest, filthiest places, they glory in decay and despair, they drain peace, hope, and happiness out of the air around them... Get too near a Dementor and every good feeling, every happy memory will be sucked out of you. If it can, the Dementor will feed on you long enough to reduce you to something like itself...soulless and evil. You will be left with nothing but the worst experiences of your life." - Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

If a person has a brief encounter with such a creature, chocolate proves to be a good antidote.
Chocolate Mondays have been created to banish Monday Blues, or at least lessen the sting of a new working week.

Chocolate Monday

2011-10-10T07:20:00.000+02:00

This weekend we held a surprise birthday party for S.O's* mum. S.O decided to order this heavenly Ferrero Rocher cake - and he specifically asked for it to be eggless so I could eat it too! I cannot count the amount of times I fell in love with it.

Chocolate Mondays have been created to banish Monday Blues, or at least lessen the sting of a new working week.
*S.O - Significant Other

A tale of two bags

2011-10-07T14:16:00.000+02:00

This beautiful, old Kodak bag was brought to work by a friend of mine. It was her grandfather's camera bag and even though the camera now makes for a lovely antique ornament, she uses the bag for her hard drive! I was instantly taken by it. Inside the flap, there is a cursive, calligraphy handwritten date and initials: "M.D.H.B.M 1914". These sort of old items carry such stories in them, even if we are unclear of what exactly they are. It's as if older items develop a more interesting personality as time marches on. And that makes it's beauty multi layered, mysterious, rugged and alluring.

This is the satchel I won from the lovely Being Brazen and AlexandraKate. This gorgeous bag made my knees weak and captivated me the minute I saw it. I also couldn't help but notice the striking similarities between the two bags, though the latter is new and it's history - only just beginning.

Chocolate Monday

2011-10-03T06:52:00.002+02:00

I love the background of this picture. The cursive writing, the thicker pen used, and the older looking paper gives it a vintage feel I simply adore. And as for those truffles - oh yum!

Hope this week is kind to each of you...
Chocolate Mondays have been created to banish Monday Blues, or at least lessen the sting of a new working week.
Image sourced from here: Imgfave

Happy Birthday Google

2011-09-27T07:29:00.001+02:00

So this is the Google Doodle today. Happy 13th birthday! If it weren't for this search engine, we'd all be straggling the Internet - lost, alone, and very confused. Now that it is 13, I hope it doesn't get that "I know it all" teenage attitude.

Chocolate Monday plus a bit of a rant

2011-09-26T04:18:00.002+02:00

These chocolate hearts look simple, happy and appetising - exactly what I need today. Picture found here: Imgfave.

In addition to Chocolate Monday - I will indulge myself in a bit of a rant. I hate over drinking, always did and always will. The last time drank bit too much was 2009. So, anyway, back to this incident. It was a public holiday in South Africa on Saturday - Heritage Day, and also National Braai* Day. S.O** decided to have a little braai. Much to my delight, he bought chocolate vodka. Needless to say I am in love with that drink and will voluntarily have more and more, simply because it tastes like chocolate cake in a shooter glass. But it done me in on Saturday. All my emotional baggage suddenly became hoards of luggage, and dare I say, it was not pretty. That is why I do not like to drink - you loose control and every fear, resentment, threads of hopelessness, dashed dreams and every other negative emotion bubbles to the surface and makes it's ugly self known. I hope to never get into that state again. And I do apologise to S.O for saying things that only stem from my deepest, darkest self. And no more to copious amounts of chocolate vodka!

Chocolate Mondays have been created to banish Monday Blues, or at least lessen the sting of a new working week.
**S.O - Significant Other
*Braai - South African term for barbecue

World Addiction Day 2011

2011-09-21T08:18:00.000+02:00

Today is World Addiction Day. I have had experiences with addicts and continue to try and support someone close to me with an addiction, so this is a very important topic to me. I live the struggle everyday and it is not easy. And that is what people need to realise - addiction takes over your life. When you decide to stop whatever you're addicted to (be it gambling, drugs, alcohol), that is when the work begins. That is when you live with the consequences of your choices and cope with this mental illness. It becomes your life partner, in a way.

So to all those who have a problem, to those who have loved ones with an addiction, to all those who are clawing their way out of the addiction pit to live some semblance of a normal life, today is your day. Be proud, brave and wise. Let the cycle of lies, stigma, mistrust and dependence end. Start fresh, embrace honesty and be good to yourself.

More info can be found here: World Addiction Day

Chocolate Monday

2011-09-19T06:32:00.000+02:00

Is there a better way to eat banana? I think not. Pic found here: Imgfave.

Chocolate Mondays have been created to banish Monday Blues, or at least lessen the sting of a new working week.

A quote that grabbed me

2011-09-14T10:28:00.000+02:00

I got this emailed to me today. It sorta sums up a lot about life, don't ya think?

"You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you CHOOSE."

- Dr Seuss -

Chocolate Mondays

2011-09-12T06:44:00.000+02:00

If I can be anyone today, I would be this dog. This is exactly how I feel when I see a chocolate fountain. Pic found here: Imgfave.

On a different note, the Neighbourgoods Market opened up in Johannesburg this past weekend. I convinced the S.O* we should go and off we went. And I am so glad we did. After driving around and around to find the place (Braamfontein has too many confusing one ways) we finally found it. I gotta say - I loved it. Even though it was packed and there is not a lot I can eat being a strict vegetarian, the vibe was easy going, friendly, fashionable and fun! It reminded me of when South Africa hosted the Soccer World Cup in 2010, combined with the Greenwich Market in London. What I did get to eat was divine. With Johannesburg having such an entrenched mall culture, it was beyond amazing to walk outside a bit. Stalls actually ran out of food, and some out of business cards because they did not expect such a great turn out. Return trips are a must!

Chocolate Mondays have been created to banish Monday Blues, or at least lessen the sting of a new working week.
*S.O - Significant Other

Chocolate Monday

2011-09-05T07:37:00.000+02:00

I would like to jump into this picture and gobble this ice cream up. Maybe it is because weather wise, Johannesburg has jumped straight from winter into summer. Spring, what happened to you? Picture found here: Imgfave.

Chocolate Mondays have been created to banish Monday Blues, or at least lessen the sting of a new working week.

Do it, for your heart

2011-08-31T10:21:00.000+02:00

I happily discovered this tweet by Essentials Magazine!

essentialsmagSA essentials magazine

Tip of the Day: Latest research says that chocolate can reduce heart disease by up to 37%! Best news ever!

So, have as much chocolate as possible, guilt free! For the sake of your heart...

Chocolate Monday

2011-08-29T06:20:00.000+02:00

I think this chocolate made cup is a brilliant idea. Fifty points to the one who thought of this idea. And it makes the presentation all the more special. Don't you just want to get into the picture and dig in? Image found here: Imgfave.

Chocolate Mondays have been created to banish Monday Blues, or at least lessen the sting of a new working week.

Birthday Loot

2011-08-25T06:31:00.000+02:00

This wonderful e-card from S.O.*

The flowers, junk food stash, mini skirt and iPANEMA slops from the S.O* And just in time for the upcoming summer!

This lovely chocolate spa set from S.O's sister and brother-in-law. It's got lip gloss, fizz ball, a candle, lotion and a bar of soap - all chocolate flavoured. And a great little book on chocolate too.

A photo frame from a friend at work

And as a surprising bonus, I won the AlexandraKate bag from a give-away that ran on Being Brazen's blog. She's got a new give-away already - so enter!

And I baked these mini savoury muffins, egg free! :)

More than the gifts though, I appreciate every warm wish I received, every call, every message. It really made my day. A huge THANK YOU to everyone!

*S.O - Significant Other

Into the land of fantasy

2011-08-23T11:52:00.000+02:00

I've always been a great fan of stories with fantasy and magical elements such as Chronicles of Narnia, Peter Pan, The Lord of the Rings and so many more. I have dozens of my own ideas dancing around in my head, I am only too scared to type them out. The fear of mediocre work overwhelms me and it paralyses me into immobility. Regardless, there are others who think like me and this image proves that. It gives me a little courage to bring my magical creatures alive on paper and into the hearts and minds of readers.

Chocolate Monday

2011-08-15T06:24:00.000+02:00

If some kind soul makes me a cake like this one fine day, they will have my eternal gratitude. Image taken from Imgfave.

P.S: To those who crave Chocolate Mondays, apologies for last Monday. My holiday took precedence over blogging.
P.P.S: Chocolate Mondays have been created to banish Monday Blues, or at least lessen the sting of a new working week.

Loving the African bush.

2011-08-10T13:59:00.000+02:00

A few pics from my recent holiday. I am still basking in the after glow.

Chocolate Monday

2011-08-01T08:37:00.000+02:00

OMG - words cannot express my excitement that there is a Lindt Chocolate Studio at Design Quarter in Johannesburg. And the cherry on the top is that we have just moved our work offices into Design Quarter! I am sure I will be very broke henceforth.

Stuck between two crazy choices

2011-07-29T07:33:00.000+02:00

Sometimes I wonder what is the lesser of two evils:

Waking up at 4:45am so I can get to work by 6:00am - only done to beat traffic. This way it takes me just under an hour to get to work - and that is with little or no traffic.
Or leaving home at 6:00am to sit for 2 hours in traffic, and that is just a one way trip.

At the moment I am doing the first option. Let's just say that waking up early is killing me. Then again, so would sitting in traffic. Sigh, I wish Johannesburg had a wide reach, safe and reliable public transport system. I cannot wait for the day that S.O* and I get a place together - something more central. Until then, I will stick to craziness.

*S.O = Significant Other

Crafty stuff

2011-07-21T08:05:00.000+02:00

I really do love winter for so many reasons. One of them is that it is easier to do craft work like knitting and crocheting. So this is my latest mitten like garment. I am making the same thing for a work colleague. And I am currently busy knitting a scarf.

Note to self: Do not ever become a hand model.

Chocolate Monday

2011-07-18T07:49:00.000+02:00

What happens when a chocolatier and a musical band come together? The release of a limited edition chocolate record. For the full story from Oddity Central, which you will want to read: click here. Thanks Tara for sending this to me.

We're dropping like flies

2011-07-15T07:11:00.000+02:00

The Johannesburg office of the company in which I work has been hard hit by the cold and flu. Yesterday two colleagues stayed at home, one left early, another one came late but slogged through the day, despite feeling under the weather. In addition the S.O* had the beginnings of the cold, and the Female Parental Unit is sick. So if I am bed ridden this weekend from illness, I shall not be surprised.

S.O - Significant Other

Chocolate Monday

2011-07-11T08:36:00.000+02:00

See - there is always reason for chocolate and chocolate flavoured products. Dig in. Images found here: Imgfave.

And on a total different note, a special mention to my S.O*. Today marks a decade we have shared a joint life path. Thank you! As the catchphrase from 'The Painted Veil' goes: "Sometimes the greatest journey is the distance between two people." May we continue to live with hope, learn together and love each other always.

*S.O: Significant Other

It is that time of the year

2011-07-07T08:05:00.000+02:00

Gosh, this winter in Johannesburg is really freezing! Not that I am complaining, I love the cold but I notice the following:

It is taking me much longer to dress up in the morning. If you're not from Johannesburg, you have to understand that homes do not come with in-built heaters. And since we have a generally warm climate, there are no such things as double glazed windows etc. You have to dress in multiple layers to keep warm, even indoors!
I am eating much more hearty foods like soups, toast and stews. And just eating much more in general. It's like I am always chewing. Hahahah.... If I am not chewing, I am drinking copious amounts of green tea.
I am not a person that snoozes my alarm, yet in this cold weather it is very tempting. Then again, I do wake up at 4:45am.
I get into my bed much much earlier....to cosy up with my fluffy, soft blankets.

Chocolate Monday

2011-07-04T08:38:00.000+02:00

I found this image immensely hilarious! I cannot take credit for any of the creativity though. I found and took the pic from Imgfave.

Trying to take the Blue out of Mondays

2011-06-27T11:07:00.001+02:00

Monday's bad rep is fully deserved for it is a day that forces us to face the end of the weekend, makes us wake up early for work and makes us take that all too depressing trek to the office. So to cheer myself (and hopefully others), I will be posting up pics of chocolates. Let's call it Chocolate Mondays. Dig in...

Image taken from here

Should I be worried?

2011-06-03T10:45:00.000+02:00

I'm so OCD that having my play list on shuffle makes me anxious. I've tried but it's better if you know what song will be playing next...better for me anyway.

Ah the satisfaction of a trip to the shops!

2011-03-23T09:48:00.000+02:00

Anyone who has shopped for a good pair of jeans knows all too well you may find a perfect fit - once every decade or so! Yes, really.

I popped into Woolies* yesterday after work. Much to my surprised pleasure, "Up to 60% off" signs in bold red and white, egged me on from every angle...how could I ignore it? I had to succumb! Into the paltry looking sale racks (only two!) I dived and emerged, victoriously with a few items, one of them being jeans.

Delight melted my knees into jelly in the changing room when I tried them on. No gaping waist? Check. Not overly tight at the hips? Check. A comfortable fit that is not too lose nor tight? Check. Perfect length? Check! Perfect length?! Anyone who knows me in person, knows that I am so vertically challenged, I consider it a valid disability. And the major reason the jeans was not too long for me? Kids clothing, people! I will be gracious enough to allow you a very small chuckle at my expense. But the biggest cherry on the cake? I bagged them for a mere R56!**

*Colloquial (and loving) term for Woolworths, a South African store selling food, clothes and other house hold items, much like the Marks and Spencer shops in the UK.

**That would be roughly 5 Euro, or US$8, or 4.9 Pounds! Price converted at XE.com

Let's...

2011-01-31T15:11:00.000+02:00

I found this tweet on the Postsecret and thought it was really touching and sweet!

If only...

2011-01-11T08:35:00.000+02:00

...I could get my hands on something like this!

A chocolate to start the day

2011-01-06T09:39:00.000+02:00

The company has recently moved offices. We are now near a Vida e Caffè and they hand out these small Lindt chocolates (as seen above) when you buy a coffee. Scott, a great work colleague, went there this morning to get his caffeine ration for the day. Lo and behold, he walks into the office, straight to where I sat and hands me this little treasure!

I shrieked in happiness, something along the lines: "Oh wow, really? This is for me?! Thanks! You've made my day!" My eyes shone bright with the thoughtfulness behind the gesture.

I love it when people support my choco-holism.

**content sigh**

The year of life paths

2011-01-03T07:56:00.000+02:00

Happy MMXI bloggerville! I hope this year is full of blessings for each and every one of you!

I guess it is expected to be pretty introspective at this time of the year, eh? Naturally it got me thinking what sort of a year this could be and I shall dub it the Year of Choosing Life Paths.

My reasoning is quite simple: most of the very important people in my life are making decisions that will impact pretty much the rest of their lives, things like leaving the country permanently and getting fabulous jobs in different countries. Hell, my choices are also going to be long,long, looooonnnnnggggg term too.

Needless to say everyone who are leaving be dearly missed. Many voids will be left which I wonder could ever be filled again. But my friends inspire me with their bravery and courage. Keep soaring dear ones!

Here's to 2011 - the mistakes, joys, laughs, tears, frustrations and everything else!

A rose by any other name...

2010-11-24T11:32:00.000+02:00

Through work, I came across some great/weird/quirky names of towns in South Africa.

Alldays: really, I cannot understand this one.
Estcourt: This can sound rude, if you have a mind that belongs in the gutter.
Giants Castle: Imagine how cool it will be to say: "Oh I live in Giants Castle. Yes, seriously."
Carolina: Now I have that tune "Oh Carolina" stuck in my head. **groan**

There were also a few strange street names in London. I used to always find them immensely amusing:

Knightrider Street: Now this just plain awesome, not to mention retro in this day and age!
Shoulder of Mutton Alley: again, I do not get this one.
Hanging Sword Alley: Awesome, retro, quirky and cool!

Can you think of any strange names where you are?

Just weird or epic fail?

2010-10-29T12:42:00.000+02:00

M1 told me one of the most bizarre things I have heard in a while:
"Mr X bought for his home an ice cream making machine, can you believe it?! Should I worry? Not a toaster or coffee maker but an ice cream making machine! I got weird friends."
"Now he is all about how delicious they are...still don't get it why..."
"Like you wake up in the morning and say: right, let's get up and get that ice cream machine."

First of all:

Is an ice cream making machine a necessity?

Second of all:

Is an ice cream making machine really necessary in a predominantly cold city like London?

I got to admit, it does not make much sense in my mind. But who can resist a treat like ice cream! Anyway, you tell me your thoughts!

Nerds, don't you just love 'em?

2010-10-21T15:02:00.000+02:00

So I got a wonderful response a Honorary Sister-Person via Google Buzz to my three day weekend concept mentioned in my previous post:

"i recently overheard some nerdy ppl talking about measurement units. The discussion started off with comments about the horror of imperial units and the ease of use of SI units.

It moved swiftly, to an a discussion about the day when imperial will be defeated to the awesome SI.

Until an Imperial supporter, a type from the old school- quite literally, put a spanner in the works by suggesting that the calendar would have to be rearranged. "This of coarse is because the number of hours in a day is based on the imperial system. So while SI uses simple tens and multiples thereof, imperial uses inches , feet , and yards etc where there are 3 feet in a yard and 12 inches in a foot etc. There are also 12 months in a year so 12 is the relating factor."

So 12 hours to reach midday wouldnt be internationally recognised under the SI time frame and we'd probably have 10 hours to midday with 100 minutes in each and then 100 seconds. I dont know if this works out but ...perhaps being all uniform we will have 10 months in a year and things will become verry bizzarre.

this leaves room for wonder. Perhaps there will be 10 day weeks...and hopefully , just hopefully

MORE WEEKEND:-) "

Some thoughts

2010-10-18T13:12:00.000+02:00

Weekends are for:

Leisurely sitting down and eating your breakfast.
Listening to great music while doing so.
Sitting in your baggy PJs for as long as you like.
Sipping your coffee instead of gulping it down while it is far too hot to drink and scalding your tongue in the process.
Jumping back into bed after all of that for some reading time.

These sort of simple things bring me an immense, deep sated joy!

As a standard going forward, I really think weekends should be three, instead of two days. Yes, I will be much more productive in the week if that is the case!

What a freaking treat!

2010-10-11T15:12:00.000+02:00

Dayum! Three words: Chocolate. Covered. Strawberries! Another two words: at. work.

Whoa!

Enough to convert the bluest of Mondays to the brightest cerise and orange! Much thanks to Pricsilla for this not-so-guilty indulgence.

The flaws of human nature

2010-10-06T10:22:00.000+02:00

It is possible that I am one of the last people on the planet to have watched the Stars Wars Sextet but hey, better late than never.

Before I started to watch it, I had to confirm with my two favourite brain boxes on watching Episodes IV, V, VI first and then I, II and III. One said to watch it consecutively, the other said watch it as they were released. Hmm...thanks guys.

So I decided to watch it as they were released. I must say Episodes IV, V, VI were rather simplistic with even simpler dialogue. Bleh...

BUT onto I, II and III! Whoa! Anakin's journey from obscurity to power hungry Sith is captivating. All the while knowing what is going to happen, I will still rooting for him to be good, remain good...very much like watching Romeo and Juliet - you know they're are going to die but you hope and pray that by some twist they won't!

Regardless, I feel a lot of compassion towards Anakin Skywalker for the simple reason that he is so flawed, so subject to his emotions, has much emotional baggage...it made him more human, more accessible. Evil manipulated that to their advantage so they could get the upper hand. But yes, Anakin did chose it himself as well even though he was only trying to protect what he held beloved. He is indeed a tragic hero, and now one of my favourites too.

In any case, seeing the character's demise made me think about how we all approach emotions - it can be so strong and can pull us to do so much - the very high of highs and the lowest of lows. The Jedi Masters, along with many religions in the reality we live in, preach about having that calm centre and disassociating the self from fears and attachments, especially in this physical world. That is something Anakin clearly did not practice. He had emotional baggage from the time he was a child, and I wonder how detrimental it is to people in their normal lives, if they do not deal with their emotional baggage. Are those from dysfunctional homes therefore more prone to snap at some point, if their issues are not resolved, or if they do not make peace with it? Are they at a natural disadvantage with all the chips on their shoulder? Does that mean that people who have led a relatively normal lives from childhood more prone to achieve all that they can, be all they can be? It made me think about being at peace with oneself, truly and fully, lest you go down your own dark path, whatever that may be for you.

Merde! Damn! Hell! And every other profanity around!

2010-09-30T11:46:00.000+02:00

There are times in your life when you really wish you could kick yourself. I have been having a few of those days. Reason being is that I am waking up before 5AM! I am not sure what the problem is, but I am not sleeping any earlier than usual so that certainly cannot account for the early rise into consciousness. And the worst part: I cannot fall back into slumber! So yeah, I have become my own worst enemy and even I cannot sort myself out.

**whimpers and pleads to the Gods for help**

Do you believe?

2010-09-17T14:52:00.000+02:00

I know it is nowhere near Christmas but this was much-too-darling NOT to share. I got it from here:
http://www.newseum.org/yesvirginia/

Eight-year-old Virginia O'Hanlon wrote a letter to the editor of New York's Sun, and the quick response was printed as an unsigned editorial Sept. 21, 1897. The work of veteran newsman Francis Pharcellus Church has since become history's most reprinted newspaper editorial, appearing in part or whole in dozens of languages in books, movies, and other editorials, and on posters and stamps.

"DEAR EDITOR: I am 8 years old.
"Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus.
"Papa says, 'If you see it in THE SUN it's so.'
"Please tell me the truth; is there a Santa Claus?

"VIRGINIA O'HANLON.
"115 WEST NINETY-FIFTH STREET."

VIRGINIA, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except [what] they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men's or children's, are little. In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.

Yes, VIRGINIA, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus. It would be as dreary as if there were no VIRGINIAS. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.

Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that's no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.

You may tear apart the baby's rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived, could tear apart. Only faith, fancy, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, VIRGINIA, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding.

No Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay, ten times ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.

Sorry honey

2010-08-27T12:41:00.000+02:00

Yesterday I had a missed called on my mobile from a private number. I called the S.O. to find out if it was him.

His reply: "Yes, it was me," and I smiled, "but I dialled the wrong number." My face fell. "Excuse me?! As if my number can ever be the wrong one when dialled by you!" I screeched, in jest, of course.

Hmph...what a cheek! **evil grin**

S.O= Significant Other

On the 21st of August:

2010-08-20T11:25:00.000+02:00

A town was founded. In 1760 the church of "Our Lady of Candlemas of Mayagüez (Puerto Rico)" was formed, establishing the basis for the founding of the city.
The British empire expanded. In 1770 James Cook claimed eastern Australia and named it New South Wales.
Freedom is fought for. In 1831 Nat Turner led a rebellion to free blacks from slavery in America.
History is snatched! In 1911 the Mona Lisa is stolen by a Louvre employee!
Royalty celebrates! King Mohammed VI of Morocco has his birthday. Happy Birthday Your Majesty!

Oh and this year I will also clock another year after my day of birth...and what a time to think, reflect, mope and perhaps even celebrate? Yes it is my party, and I can cry if I want to! **winks**

Please note: above info sourced from Wikipedia

Oh um, sigh....

2010-08-16T14:51:00.000+02:00

A radio show helped me stroll down memory lane this morning. They played the theme songs to classics from them days: The Gummy Bears tune, the Duck Tales song, the Heman song and even the Knightrider theme! I am sure the guys sitting in the bakkie* in front of me, thought me a tad insane smiling the way I did!

But it reminded me of time that was much more simple, when you though being an adult was easy, when the hardest decision was whether to play with a doll or a teddy and which imaginary friend to invite over for the tea party. It made me wonder about life in general and whether there is sense in this madness... How do we know what our path is? Why don't we get answers to our questions? Should we be asking questions? Is it wrong to think the way you do? Why are some people such selfish, cruel beings? And is it okay to give up and curl under your duvet till you feel ready (enough) to face the world again? So many questions...all rhetorical...

Bakkie*: Afrikaans word for van or lorry.

Let them eat cake!

2010-07-20T13:41:00.000+02:00

I like to scour around for treasures, my eyes constantly darting this way and that. It was a windy day and this little treasure found it's way into the S.O's driveway. Somehow it gave me a case of the very warm fuzzies. :)

A 'lil something something...

2010-07-14T09:03:00.000+02:00

...to brighten the blues after the fabulous soccer spectacle. And thanks to the Writer for being the brains and research unit behind this post. This is a small way to contribute to the betterment of humanity - we know you will come back to ogle, which will make you smile, which will improve your mood, which means you could contribute something good to mankind! Really, no need for thanks!

Van Persie - Netherlands

Canavarro - Italy

Alonso - Spain

Fabregas - Spain

Kaka - Brazil

Navas - Spain

Santa Cruz - Paraguay

*None of these visuals belong to me but it had to be used. :) *

Post World Cup Soccer depression:

2010-07-12T09:51:00.002+02:00

I am feeling it - it is here.

A tear jerker

2010-06-30T12:00:00.000+02:00

Found on Imgfave

World Cup Opening at Soccer City

2010-06-14T00:02:00.000+02:00

Pics taken by Prixie

'Nuff said...'cos no words are needed really.

Giddiness

2010-06-10T11:41:00.000+02:00

The vuvzelas sound over and over. Can you hear it? The world is visiting! Do you see them? The excitement and joy is tangible. Can you feel it? I am going giddy! Yes, the World Cup Soccer 2010 starts tomorrow here in Johannesburg, South Africa. Oh yay!

And the office is showing their support! Pics below!

Jolted out of slumber

2010-06-09T05:43:00.000+02:00

Sent text message to S.O* at 5.00AM that reads:

"Oh my God! I dreamed someone asked me if you proposed cos they seen a ring on my finger. Then they asked if it was diamonds and I said I hope he was not that stupid! Urg! Woke up with such a fright! PLEASE don't do stupid things in reality!"

A bit of background context to those who do not know me or us:

I do not believe in marriage for myself. But S.O and I have been together for nine years.
No, I am not a bitch hag from hell stringing him along. Neither is he very ready at this stage.
Now that we are of marriageable age, and part of an ethnic community, the pressure is on!
The only reason I will marry, is to be with S.O for the rest of our lives and he is traditional like that.
And I really don't like diamonds and proper jewellery.

*S.O = Significant Other

Holidays are...

2010-06-01T19:29:00.000+02:00

Zanzibar, pick taken by Prixie

... about walking back to your chalet and having sand in between your toes and all over your hair
... feeling the sun's fierce power on your head and feet as you step onto silver beach sand
... meandering exotic labyrinths of cities that carry memories and future hopes on it's walls
... seeing the world through a refreshed, revitalised state of being
... swallowing salty sea water as all too powerful waves knock you down
.... seeing a different way of life and remembering how it is the small things that make us fortunate
.... about falling in love again

Hacking it

2010-05-16T15:57:00.000+02:00

Oh and what may that be? A rope? Woven yarn? Nope... That, my friends, is the hair I cut off - 30CM! And now it is going to CANSA so they can make a wig. What a relief!

**Apologies for the bad quality photo. It was taken with my phone and the hair is in a plastic bag.**

It is still worth it, right?!

2010-05-11T09:30:00.000+02:00

So apparently:

However:

Thanks to that Skank* Writer for the top photo. Was she trying to get me to give up one of my greatest loves?! hmmmm..... :) The bottom photo is sourced from a great website: Imgfave.

* Before anyone gets huffy about my 'bad language' and 'name calling', it is a term of ENDEARMENT! There is also Slutty, Slag, Tramp and Vamp. If you have a name of that sort, then join the party too! :)

Such non-sense!

2010-05-05T11:53:00.000+02:00

There are those days when reality hits you like the worst bitch slap you have ever received. When all the work you've done blows up into tiny ashes, when your hopes are transformed into dust and you are left clutching the thin, thin air. It is on those days when your most vile, soul cataclysmic thoughts stare you in the face screaming: "You are powerless! What is, is and even you cannot change it!" You sit there, like a dumbfounded dope with your mouth hanging open. "Fuck!" seems to be the only word repeating the circuit of your mental processes. And the next day you have to get up, go to work and function like yesterday never happened. Yeah, this sort of shit really stinks.

The Peter Pan Syndrome

2010-05-03T10:27:00.000+02:00

I am currently having a lot of trouble finding the right words - hence the absence from Blogger-ville. My insides are a muddled, muddy mess. I cannot begin to wade through it at the moment. But I think this quote captures a bit of what I feel right now, but I could be wrong. Regardless it is still a wonder of words. I got it from Slutty's sister, who got it from another friend. :)

"I'm convinced that most people do not grow up. We find parking spaces and honour our credit cards.We marry and dare to have children and call that growing up.I think what we do is mostly grow old.We carry accumulation of years in our bodies and our faces; but generally our real selves, the children inside, are still innocent and shy as magnolias" - Maya Angelou

'Tis true, magic is real!

2010-04-07T10:56:00.000+02:00

A window on the University of Cape Town campus. It could be the gateway to another realm.

The buffet restaurant atop Table Mountain. Looks like a charming fairy cottage to me.

The sky flushed with hues of lilac, orange and pink as the sun sets, with table mountain in the distance. The magicians of sky art no doubt hard at work here.

I felt it, that sense of magic in Cape Town this Easter weekend. Yes, that flicker and spark of hope is ignited again. Yesssss!

All images copyright by Prixie

Just a lil sprinkle

2010-04-01T13:49:00.000+02:00

Wishing everyone a bit of magic on this Easter weekend (and maybe a chocolate induced coma too).

Closed door

2010-03-17T11:51:00.000+02:00

Oh look at that, my UK visa has expired *Sadness*

Truths that haunt

2010-03-09T13:42:00.000+02:00

And some times we have already, in vain, done that much...

Taken from Favourite Images.

"Love breaks - take aim!"

2010-03-08T10:34:00.000+02:00

The Writer emailed this quote to me. I love it. And I love the author.

“Have you ever been in love? Horrible isn't it? It makes you so vulnerable. It opens your chest and it opens up your heart and it means that someone can get inside you and mess you up. You build up all these defenses, you build up a whole suit of armor, so that nothing can hurt you, then one stupid person, no different from any other stupid person, wanders into your stupid life...You give them a piece of you. They didn't ask for it. They did something dumb one day, like kiss you or smile at you, and then your life isn't your own anymore. Love takes hostages. It gets inside you. It eats you out and leaves you crying in the darkness, so simple a phrase like 'maybe we should be just friends' turns into a glass splinter working its way into your heart. It hurts. Not just in the imagination. Not just in the mind. It's a soul-hurt, a real gets-inside-you-and-rips-you-apart pain. I hate love.”

~Neil Gaiman

Soft and warm, like a duvet cover

2010-03-03T19:48:00.000+02:00

Sometimes you read something, and you feel your heart rate go up a notch and your mouth hangs open, and the beauty makes you breathless. I had this moment and had to share:

"They met in the space between worlds, where the rule of quotidian concerns - prudence, common sense, customs, cupidity - like the law of gravity, at a distance from the earth's strong pull, attenuates into airy nothingness, and we are let be free to be ourselves; that liberty itself induces love, for who does not long to be secretly released from the cramp of self obsession and the prison of self regard? Somewhere in our being the scent of freedom lingers, like the elusive smell of cut grass from a dream of a lost summer, to the breeze of fresh and endless oceans. The everyday world is at once too carping and too cautious to admit such recollection, although, if we are lucky, it catches us fleetingly, as we ride, or run, or paint, or cook, or make love - or music, wine or stories. Only to the blessed does it return in a single quenching shaft..."

- Sally Vickers, "Mr. Golightly's Holiday

If you can, read this novel!

Unleashing my inner geek

2010-02-23T10:13:00.000+02:00

The ThunderCats team

I had a good few listening moments in the car this morning. A local radio station, Highveld, decided to talk about a wonderful, old cartoon that I adored when I was young: ThunderCats. And so they proceeded to play the theme song! It took me way back to a simple, happy time. So yeah, I smiled from ear to ear whilst in traffic and I think everyone who passed me thought I was a freak. But my question is: Do you remember this show? And what does your inner geek love?

Need to rattle those memory cells? More ThunderCats info can be found on ThunderCats Lair.

'Tis Award Season!

2010-02-17T11:48:00.000+02:00

Flying Stars awarded me the following badge:

**Thanks much!** So to pass on the honour, I hereby grant the Rock Star Blogger Award to (in no particular order):

Your turn to pass it on!

What's V.D* without cup cakes?!

2010-02-15T11:49:00.000+02:00

One way ticket to cupcake heaven!

A work colleague and soul mate, with a passion for cooking and baking that surpasses mine, created these divine V.D* creatures. She used a basic vegan recipe and made it into a gourmet master piece(s)! The sweetness mixed with a hint of coffee left me shivering and tingling from it's decadence. It is so good, I think it is sinful!

*No it is not that you little pervert. V.D = Valentines Day

Help Haiti - yes you can!

2010-02-10T09:20:00.000+02:00

Help them help Haiti! A fellow writer and soul mate (we call him Tramp) works at a South African organisation trying to do the following:

A month after the earthquake and the island of Haiti is still short of supplies! South Africans are willing to help but don't know how. Thankfully, Masimanyane Women's Support Centre has come to the fore, giving us the chance to help resurrect the lives of Haitians.

Masimanyane is looking to collect items that contribute to the welfare of women and children who have been victims of rape and robbery in the last month. The organisation encourages each person to provide one item each. These include:

Feminine supplies, combs, feminine wipes, panties, bras and clothes and other support (especially for pregnant women and new mothers).
Personal/household supplies for birth delivery and after: (rubbing alcohol or disposable anti-germicidal substitutes; baby wipes, baby wraps, pampers, socks and caps and supplies for nursing mothers/newborn; (It is cold at nights so there is need to cover the feet and heads of the newborns).
Clothing and under garments for women and young girls
Bedding and blankets for babies and mothers.
Urgent need for the morning after pill (rape of girls and young women is becoming a problem, as is common in the aftermath of most disasters).
Any items that you think would be useful for women and girls.
In general any supplies (such as toothpaste, tooth brushes, soaps, etc) that can be used for daily living for men, women, boys and girls are welcome.

By getting your employees to contribute at least one item you will help better the lives of hundreds who are suffering. You may collect the items at your offices and Masimanyane will arrange to pick it up.
For more information please contact Yulinda Sharrock on 084 481 2195 or 043 743 9169.

More information is a click away:
Masimanyane Haiti Initiative

Your assistance will be greatly appreciated.

Had to share!

2010-02-09T12:58:00.000+02:00

Happy 9.02.10 day!

* Gulp * Makes me feel kinda old

Some link love

2010-02-03T10:06:00.000+02:00

Once upon a time, Being Brazen, a wonderful blogger from Cape Town decided to start a book club with a difference. We don't meet, we do not have to read the same books, we all do not reveal our true identities but it is just as satisfying as a conventional book club. Hmmm...somehow I know feel part of an underground super hero gangs, very Watchmen-esque. Closeted and open book lovers can find all the fantasy, action, thrillers and romance here: Being Brazen Books

My very first review for the club on Alice in Wonderland can be read now too!

And they all lived happily ever after, between the covers of books.

"World Chocolate Wonderland" - I wish I was there!

2010-01-29T13:14:00.000+02:00

Taken from IOL:

Beijing - Thousands of Chinese on Friday flocked to a new chocolate theme park, gobbling the sweet treat and savouring the visual feast of replicas of the Great Wall, the Terracotta Army and even a sleek BMW.

Organisers are hoping that Beijing's "World Chocolate Wonderland", on the Olympic Green near the Bird's Nest Stadium, will boost the chocolate market in China, where the candy is not as popular as it is in Western countries.

"Hmmm!" exclaimed Dai Qing, a 20-year-old student, as she watched an expert make designs out of chocolate.

"I love eating chocolate, so I wanted to see the process of making it and to understand the chocolate culture," she said.

The 20,000-square-metre venue includes three halls full of exhibits and demonstrations, all temperature-controlled to keep the elaborate replicas - safely behind huge glass panes - from melting.

Long queues of people milled past the cocoa terracotta warriors - both life-size and a miniature army - the car, and a 10-metre-long model of the Great Wall.

One exhibit was dedicated to sport, with a chocolate basketball player soaring towards the hoop. The BMW, located in the same hall, attracted huge attention.

According to a report in the official China Daily newspaper, 10 craftsmen needed four tons of chocolate and six months to make the car.

In another display, a huge array of chocolate fountains sent 1.5 tons of the smooth, dark liquid spilling in various directions - recalling Roald Dahl's beloved book "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory".

"The break sound of the deluxe chocolate is clear and crisp, and the break line is straight," said one explanatory panel on the chocolate knowledge wall.

In the courtyard outside, techno music blared out as two clowns performed tricks with audience members on a stage, a bouncy castle stood - empty - and people dressed in chocolate-coloured costumes milled around.

Back inside, employees shouted "move forward" at regular intervals as more and more people - mostly students on holiday - filed past exhibits detailing chocolate traditions in countries such as France, Switzerland and Belgium.

The exhibit that attracted most people was the building devoted to candy, which housed interactive games and displays allowing customers to experience different sweet flavours from around the world.

At the entrance - where tickets cost a steep 80 yuan ($12), a high price for the average Chinese consumer - men dressed in purple cloaks and pointed hats welcomed visitors.

"It's great but the entrance fee is expensive, especially for students," said 21-year-old Liang Miao.

"I think this is going to be popular for a short period of time but not in the long term. It's right next to the Bird's Nest, and for 80 yuan, people would rather go there than here."

Organisers hope to attract one million visitors to the park before it closes in April, when the weather will begin to get too warm. It will then reopen next January, with all-new displays. - AFP

On Post Secret

2010-01-28T13:47:00.000+02:00

These two secrets got my attention:

Front

Back

Sorry chocolate, I have another vice!

2010-01-26T11:28:00.000+02:00

Popcorn. Don't you just love it? It is one of those happy foods that always always puts a smile on my face. I can have it a couple of times a week. And it is sold here at work! :) I am weak so I succumb to my temptation regularly. I only hate those crumbs at the bottom of the packet that becomes small, hard-to-pick-up bits! It is then I want to do the unladylike thing, open my mouth wide and pour the crumbs in. Knowing my luck, a rogue grain will make me choke! Hmm... wonder if any of my colleagues know the Heimlich, or will I end up blue in the face and look like an Avatar on my deathbed?!

* Stop rambling Prixie and go back to work! *

Is the isolation ward all that is available?

2010-01-19T10:36:00.000+02:00

I recently read a book where one of the characters needed to escape from a bad patch in her life, so she came to South Africa (SA). When another character asked why SA, she replied along the lines of: "Because it was the furthest place I could think of."

And I am feeling very very far way from the rest of the world. This sense of isolation is gnawing away at me. I feel stuck here, what I think of as the arse end of the world. My flight instinct is overwhelming my fight instinct.

Can someone point out the oxygen to me?

2010-01-09T09:25:00.000+02:00

As my body clamps down in shock, my lungs forget how to breathe and my brains struggles to make sense of non-sense.

Resolutions - twisted and sick

2010-01-03T13:43:00.000+02:00

It is hard to not thing about the new year without new beginnings. Hence resolutions. But they're all about self improvement and blah, blah, blah... I have been tagged to do a deliciously devilish version of resolutions by Standbymind. It is certainly thinking out of the box:

1. I would pack up and leave, start an entire new existence, besides keeping in touch with a few soul mates.

2. Practice the craft.

3. Lock the Family Unit up in a room so they can actually communicate, or start to.

4. If I could get over my fear of drugs - I would be curious to know it's effects.

5. I would like to beat the hell out of some people, till they get some sense knocked into them. (I am usually a non-violent person)

So, who is up to the challenge to expose some of their darkest thoughts?

Something ends

2009-12-31T10:30:00.000+02:00

And so it ends. I have decided to step away from S.O so I am able to think, reassess and re-evaluate the relationship. There really was no point in being miserable...together. I am not sure where my path will lead, or whether we will still have a joint path. There are so many questions, so many emotions and its feels like I am being swept away. I wish I could go numb.

It's time to party like its... MMX*

2009-12-29T10:41:00.000+02:00

A decade ago (or almost a decade ago, depending where you're coming from) I completed my last year of high school. It is difficult to grasp the concept of time passing at such a rate!

Do I feel the need to vent, reflect, cry out of joy and sadness? You can betcha your last Rand, or Dollar or Pound...

I certainly see a different person in the mirror compared to 2000. Most of my dreams - I have accomplished. The Plan involved strategically working towards them and suddenly, there I was living the dream, having the best of times life can offer.

Finding the S.O has never been part of The Plan. Then Life, with its bitchy mood swings, sees fit to throw a curve ball. And so The Plan looks very different to what I had always pictured. I certainly think S.O is in my life for a reason, but I cannot understand anything as yet.

And now it is all about survival, with a smile.

Hope MMX is as wonderful as wonderful can get for each and every one of you!

*MMX (roman numerals) = 2010

I know this post has been, erm, vague, but I fear the torrent of tears, while at my work desk, if details are mentioned.

When the world turns on it's head

2009-12-23T10:46:00.000+02:00

This holiday season, if you want peace and quiet:

1. Go to work

2. Avoid shopping malls

3. Stay-cations* in big cities

4. If you do not have kids, treat them as if they are the bubonic plague

And then sigh serenely...

Blessed be every single one of you!

*staying at home, not going on a holiday but not at work.

On Post Secret

2009-11-23T14:05:00.000+02:00

I found this on Post Secret today. So, besides a few quirky friends and erm, bloggers, there are other people like me out there. I feel less of a loner somehow. *big sheepish grin*

Damsel in much distress

2009-11-18T09:19:00.000+02:00

Yesterday, as usual, I rushed to my car after work. I put the key in the ignition and...nothing. I tried a couple of times but to no avail. I then realised I had left the headlights on for the entire day! MERDE! And DAMN! And every other profanity that will put a trucker to shame! Naturally the battery died. I needed it to be jump started so I called The Sister Person and the Brother-in-law Person because they stay up the road.

By the time they reached my office park, they could not get into the parking lot because there was so MUCH traffic to get out and all the lanes were blocked. Eventually I got 2 security guards to assist me and out of nowhere, these 4 construction guys started to help them. I was mortified and absolutely embarrassed, turning every shade of red and pink known to man, and a few new shades I am sure! They also tried to push start the car, but it did not work. The battery was deader than dead. I think it was already putrefying. One of the security guards then escorted The Sister Person's car against the traffic so the cables could be attached to their battery so mine could charge. It took half an hour to do that then another 45 minutes to GET OUT OF THE PARKING LOT. I eventually stayed at The Sister Person's place, being too tired to drive home.

I hope to find those who helped me and perhaps buy them something to show my gratitude.

I know this tale of misadventure made lots of people laugh yesterday, so maybe you can find a few chuckles too. At my expense, of course.

Oi... *another few new shades on pink and red on my cheeks*

Nostalgicating

2009-11-16T17:16:00.000+02:00

M2 is here from London for a visit. We were housemates there. We had a great time of shopping, chatting, eating, having ice cream, sitting in parks, museums and so on. Being together again reminded us both of what a great time we had in our house and how lucky we were to have housemates that were more like family. In a text message received today, she said: "I feel like in the old days when we lived together in peace and harmony. :)" Yes, me too. And it left me both yearning and rejuvenated.