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Meeting Overload?

The target audience for this item was my team @ work.

If, like me, you are feeling the pressure of meeting or email overload, have a read of this article about decluttering ... there are some good ideas so worth a read! Those of you who have got to know me will have heard me express similar sentiments and we have made some adjustments to the routine meeting schedule, but still a long way to go! It is in all of our hands.

Don't get me wrong, some meetings are important but every meeting should have a purpose. They must add value. What about the other attendees? When you sit in a meeting, silently consider each of the other attendees and question for yourself why they are there. Why are you there? If you can’t answer these questions, what does that tell you?

With only a little effort, many meetings can be replaced by a quick ad-hoc short chat, why not try it?

Think carefully about the default time allotted for a meeting - do you really need an hour? Can you achieve the same thing in 30 or 45 minutes? Consider starting a meeting at "10 past" the traditional start times - this gives attendees time to get from one meeting to the next, take a comfort break or do whatever it is people do when they have a spare 10 minutes ... it will also mean you can properly start your meeting on time and be more effective immediately.

Imagine if we conducted a meeting audit? How many technology minutes are spent in meetings? I think you would be surprised!

Vendor meetings too, must have a purpose, they must align with strategy and priorities. We must be wary of giving vendors the wrong message, it is very unfair on them for us to waste their time without clear goals.

What about emails? Too many? Consider more ad-hoc face to face contact ... With less but more productive meetings, you might even have more time for this!

Let's propagate and build a culture where we enable productivity and get stuff done, not fall into the trap of too much bureaucracy hindering progress.

Generation Gap - Am I out of touch?

Not so long ago, across the office, I heard an 18 year old colleague squeal: "OH! LOOK! I got my first dick pick". 

Now!! I pride myself on staying in touch, keeping up, I get the lingo and if I hear a strange one, well I know how to Google. When I heard these words however, passionately spoken, I immediately imagined something resembling a tooth pick but obviously intended for a different part of the anatomy ...  oh! And to be clear - in my head, this looked like some sort of utensil more typically accompanying a seafood platter!

Owwwwwwwch ... Why would you? Why would anyone?

My colleague went on to elaborate, the dick pick was accompanied by an invite for a drink. Oh! Right! Ok! Got it! Got it! Pic not pick, yep, as in photo , something you might post on Instagram ... Yep! Pic ... Ok ... Catching up ... WOW!! Thankfully I didn't humiliate myself with any embarrassing commentary about my own interpretation!

So then my mind turned to wondering, has the generation gap widened so much? When did the male anatomy become so attractive it is presented as temptation to "go for a drink"? Jeez, how can a girl resist? 

I guess it brings new meaning to cocktail hour!

But really? OMG! LOL! Does that actually work? I won't linger over my own experiences but "fetching" isn't my first thought!

Was the pic accompanied by any kind of gauge perhaps? Raised and presented in a pair of tweezers? Kitchen tongs? Or what about BBQ implements to show what a real man he is? 

Seriously? Was it attentive or just hanging around? I didn't dare ask and I gotta be honest, I don't think I actually want to know!! Honestly! I don't! Really I don't!

Is the generation gap so huge? Oh crap, I must be turning into my Mum although to be fair, at least she only had to contend with men with long hair!!!

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Dear Ian, No jetski for you this year!!!

A copy of a letter from Santa to my Brother in Law, December 2008

Dear Ian....

Called in on JayJinx today, she asked me to drop you a line to explain why there won't be a jet ski in your Christmas stocking this year.

 Courtesy of David Blackwell  cc

Truth is, I am strapped for cash, aside from the GFC and all of the usual Christmas expense, I had to fund Rudolph joining a gym, he has been overdoing the mince pies! 

Then there is Mrs Santa!! What a woman!

She wants to move house! Got a bit of a bee in her bonnet, about "moving somewhere warmer". Can you believe it? After all these years, she has suddenly decided she has had enough snow. An age thing probably, a bit wobbly on her feet and starting the feel the cold more than once upon a time.

I made her a new pair of slippers – one of our reindeer passed on in September and while we thought about a new rug in front of the fire, Mrs S. came first!

The elves aren't happy (surprise!), they don't think they will look good in swimwear, they are also quite fond of their little hats and don't feel they will be suited to a hot climate. Of course, they are all worried about the cost of relocating!

cc by Christmas Stock Images

They have started dropping hints about a pay rise!!!!  Making snide little comments about inflation and things like "OMG have you seen the price of a pair of sunnies?" They haven't had a pay rise since 1933, so perhaps a 1% increase isn't out of the question.

And the price of the removals! Can you imagine how much it is going to cost to shift the entire toy factory? The cost of real estate doesn't bear thinking about! Land here at the North Pole is "cost effective", after all, who wants to live here? Everywhere else you look, prices are through the roof! (Ouch, shouldn't have mentioned rooves!! Had a bit of a nasty landing earlier this week) I can't see how we will be able to shift this place quickly! We'll be lucky to get the asking price!

Anyway, I can hear you ask, what has this got to do with my jet ski? How about everything?

Jet ski's don't come cheap! Don't think we didn't try, even held an emergency summit with the Tooth Fairy and the Easter Bunny to talk it through. We had a couple of choices, either buy you a jet ski and deny thousands of little children that special moment on Christmas morning, or don't buy you a jet ski and proceed with the order of cinders. Rudolph (as always) stuck his big red nose in. He voted for the jet ski but then he hates doing the cinder run!

The Easter Bunny was in favour too, but he just wanted to test drive a few, typical, I find him a little selfish and … huh … LAZZZZZY!  You just wouldn't believe it! He thinks making a few chocolate eggs each year means he can sit back on his fluffy bobble tail for the rest of the time. He has no idea! He should try doing Christmas sometime!! A job swap would soon sort him.

Sorry! I shouldn't burden you with my problems. Stressed! Time of the year!! Washed the old red suit this morning and it has shrunk! Of course Mrs S hinted I had overdone the Christmas pud one too many times, but I am sticking with "its shrunk". Might have to go with the blue one instead, been dying to try it for years, really fancy something a bit different – for a change! Red is just so "retro" these days …

The Tooth Fairy was passionately against the jet ski!  I don't know what you have done to upset her, but she said you would only get one over her dead body!!  (As she wouldn't be much use dead (couldn't even knit a finger mitt), we would prefer to keep her happy).  She has had an expensive year too; apparently the price for teeth has sky rocketed so she is playing the stress card and making too many rash decisions.  She is even hinting at retiring!  That'll upset a lot of littlies ...

The arguments raged for hours until Mrs S stepped in. She reminded us to ask the "BIG question"! Have you really been a good boy? Well I can tell you, that stopped everybody! No more arguments! Yes! You know what I am talking about don't you? You haven't been totally honest have you? Remember? That little "incident" earlier this year? We'll leave it at that shall we? Let's just say that you will be lucky to find ANYTHING in your Xmas stocking this year!

Well I hope that explains it all for you. I have to dash ... Lots to do!

Have a great Christmas

Father C!

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The choices we make ...

So today is the first day of the rest of my life. The choices I make are mine, I can choose to be happy or sad, I can choose optimism or despair, I can be morose, ill tempered or cheerful. I can choose to be resentful, unkind, even cruel or I can be fair and honest and respect my own innate sense of justice - be true to myself. Whatever I choose will impact and possibly even influence those around me. 

So is the choice difficult? No, not when you put it like that.

It has been quite a week! An emotional roller coaster ride, from the worst to the best and everything in between. I began the week with a heavy heart and ended it with new memories, memories to treasure forever, valued friendships and most importantly, optimism and an acceptance that when you wake up in the morning, you really have no clue how the day might end.

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Scotland and ISIS!

Devolution of Scotland - say No!

By Emoscopes (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

You can be Scottish AND British!

Both in the news and my title for this post may suggest a link between the Scottish independence and ISIS, but little is less likely. The Scots are courageous, patriotic and rarely, if ever, cowardly, lets hope they are not brave to the point of stupidity. I am in the "NO" camp and fervently hope that our Scottish brethren are not so impassioned that they vote 'yes' on Thursday 18th August 2014.  Let's stay together!

Alex Salmond is a man hungry for power, perhaps lonely as recently suggested by one newspaper, but there is no doubt he believes passionately in his cause and is on a quest, but does that make him right? Is it truly just independence he wants? To be known forever as the man that broke a long standing union, a union that, at times, has had its troubles and disagreements, but one that stands united and strong on the world stage. How sad Alex, if your legacy is to destroy not build.

Accounting for just 8% of the UK population, can Scotland and its 5.295 million people truly survive without their staunchest supporters? Salmond's intent to keep Scotland a part of the EU is a contradiction to his promoting devolution, Scotland will inevitably become a small cog in the very large wheel that is, in the main, a dysfunctional Europe.

Forget the debate about debt and North Sea oil, such things are finite, surely this debate is about so much more. It is about patriotism, it is about politics, it is about independence and empowerment but it is also about collaboration, strength, a powerful voice on the world stage, not a measly croak all too easy to ignore. It is about a union of like minds, shared history, a shared future, access to education and medical resources. A shared military protecting our borders in times of uncertainty, freedom and global recognition of British citizenship and to be a part of the Commonwealth international community.

Being British and a part of the UK is something special, it gives you that warm fuzzy feeling when you think of it, it's quirky, it's a little odd, it has pomp and ceremony, it has the Queen and Prince Philip, it has a big history and a big future.  Let's stick together, vote no on Thursday!

Voting?

Perhaps the biggest injustice is for such an historic event as the potential breakup of the United Kingdom to be exclusively voted on by residents of Scotland from 52 Commonwealth countries, 27 European Union countries and yet nobody in England, Ireland or Wales is permitted a say. Isn't this fundamentally wrong?

Isn't it also wrong that just one vote in favour over those against will mean the bill goes through. A vote of 50.001% to 49.999% will mean the devolution of Scotland and a break up of the United Kingdom, surely just one person should not hold so much power? Isn't this fundamentally wrong?

Distraction?

And what of the distraction?  Here's where ISIS comes in! The world sits practically on the brink of war, thankfully, Russia and the Ukraine has gone off the boil but what of the Middle East? What of ISIS and their brutal murder today of a British citizen, a Yorkshireman brought up in Perth, Scotland. A man who's parents live in Ayr, Scotland. I was disgusted to read this morning a comment on a newspaper article about Scottish nationalism:

Who are we defending ourselves from? We're not going to be entering every single world conflict at the behest of the US like the UK currently does. Will we be invaded by sheep from Wales? Perhaps some Badgers escaping the cull in England. Scotland has a proud military tradition, it won't go to waste but our soldiers will not die fighting in foreign lands.

Should the vote go through as a yes, is this comment accurately representative of what the Scots actually think? I don't believe it is, no. The distraction of the Scottish referendum from such major world changing events and the threat of such cruelty, is at the behest of one man, passionate though he may be. Let's hope this vote results in a no and puts this debate to bed once and for all so the world can focus on the elimination of a barbaric, inhuman group who are propagating an evil culture.

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A Hackathon - GET-A-WAY - We Did It Our Way!

As the CIO, leading a team of 150+ passionate computer professionals, I was looking for something a bit different and inspirational.  I settled on the idea of a hackathon!!

Never heard of a hackathon? What about a hackfest? No? OK, well a hackathon is generally an event where computer programmers get to spend a pre-specified period of time, typically 24 or 48 hours having loads of fun and "doing their own thing".

So I set about doing some research ... looks like everybody's who's anybody's doing it! Atlassian, Facebook, Google and closer to home, realestate.com.au.

Location! Location! Location!

Did we do the same? Sure ... well no, not quite, we did it our way and so last week, our 1st ever 24-hour hackathon kicked off in Brisbane. Over 100 representatives from several departments came together for GET-A-WAY, an innovation themed event where anybody could create an idea, form a team and make IT happen – in 24 hours! Announced in early June, lunchtimes and personal time were soon sacrificed as teams formed and ideas blossomed! Secrets were whispered, ideas exchanged and non-disclosure agreements signed ... in blood!

Our hero, Captain Robin, convened his merry crew of 13 to support the event and determine the rules. A lot of thought went into the rules, "there are none just avoid using babies and animals for experimentation!"

Intensity!

2pm Thursday madness prevailed and a frenzy of activity overwhelmed as computers and teams arrived, goody bags and t-shirts were distributed, loud conversations and swaggering bravado flowed through the Grand Ballroom! Within 20 minutes, reality hit! This was it, time for serious conversation, concentration, passion and determined planning! Intensity soon followed!

So much to think about!

2pm Friday and the final bell tolled, well it sort of fizzled really but everybody got the message, it was over and each team had just 5 minutes for "the pitch!". The bar was set high, the ideas inspirational and our panel of 3 awesome judges [myself included of course] offered feedback and a range of prizes were awarded.

Time for beer and pizza!

Sweet 16 was the order of the day – 16 teams, 16 presentations and 16 metres of pizza consumed! So many stories to tell, so many pictures, some spent the night, at least one slumbered in a local hotel, others napped in cars! Yes really!

On Saturday, the surrounds of Brisbane reverberated to the gentle sound of snoring as adrenalin abated and normality returned!

Well done to all who took part, everyone a winner!  Congratulations team, you made it a resounding success!  We have new and innovative ideas, our teams are stronger than ever, motivated and passionate, all of us learned so much and we all had fun doing IT!  ... and for me personally? Definitely a highlight of my career! And what a relief!  A success!

Where shall we travel next? Shhhhh ...  GET-A-WAY Sydney is already set for mid October!!! Can't wait!

The Winners!  Lisa and Leila!

The Teams!

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I remember ...

As I approach mid life, I want to say to my Grandparents, I remember you! I want to capture memories before I am too old and forget them ...

Nanna, I remember the old folk's home, where we would visit you, where you were a day person, only on Saturdays.  It smelled of pee and old people, not you of course just others. You would give me a Shilling pocket money, every week, you told me it would have bought a loaf of bread many times over when you were a girl.  The equivalent of five new pence, but to me at 8 or 9 years old, 2 packets of crisps (potato chips) at the tuck shop and today a tiny coin that hardly has any value at all. You would religiously walk to our house - a kilometre or so (half a mile), leaning on your walking stick and stopping every few metres or so to catch your breath.  I think of you as old, but you weren't really, not by today's standards, only 20 years older then than I am now, so no, not old, not really.

Do you remember how my sister and I made afternoon tea in your shed? Inviting you and your friend in for your own tea and cake? The shed was all of 3 foot square but you humoured us, made us feel special.  You were born in 1903 and your friend around the same time, so I imagine she has gone too by now.

You took us for days out in school holidays, using your pensioner bus tokens to take us all over the Wirral, New Brighton, Parkgate, West Kirby, I remember.

Originally from Liverpool, home for you was a little ground floor flat, just along the road from the swimming baths at Overpool where Gladys took all the kids from our street swimming each school holidays. We had fun in those days, we didn't have much but with our pushbikes and jam butties (jelly sandwiches to the uninitiated) we would head off for the day, our Mum and Dad never worried cos we were safe, life was different back then.  I must be getting old!  Nostalgia is getting a stranglehold!

And Nanny ... you are as memorable in different ways ... I remember your orange decor - trendy in the sixties. We stayed with you once, slept in the back bedroom, we were kids, it smelled musty and old, with one of those big dark scary wardrobes people had in those days and I remember! I think it was cos Mum thought we had mumps and wanted us out of the house away from Dad.  We didn't, so maybe they just wanted us out of the house!  I'm sure that wasn't the only time you accommodated us, but its the time I remember best.

I tried to shock you by plucking my eyebrows, I was only 13 and dumbo me plucked from the top, well it hurt less, but I was devastated the plucking didn't result in the beautifully shaped brows of my imagination. I had to pencil them back on for weeks!

Dad would take us to see you every Sunday, you were only tiny, less than 5 feet tall.  I remember the stories of Dad's childhood.  How he marched up and down outside your Liverpool home in the war, pretending to be on Guard duty, protecting the street, he was all of 7 year's old at the time.  Or the time he thoughtfully decorated, painting the wall with strawberry jam, a rare commodity during time of rationing and leaving a sticky wall for you to remember it by for years!  Or what about his addiction to syrup of figs?  He only drank the whole bottle once after all! So many other stories lost in the mists of time.

And to my Grandfathers both, I remember you, one of you who limped with one leg shorter than the other, you served in the fire brigade when they wouldn't let you fight in the war, you brought us ice-cream slabs and wafers.  As a pensioner, you would walk the local neighbourhood with your lawnmower, petrol driven to cut the lawn for those less able, I imagine you would call on your lady friend too on your rounds, but I wasn't meant to know about her!  Rose I think her name was.  Tut tut!  I think there is more than a little of your influence in me!

And my other Grandad, I remember how you were a hoarder! You kept everything.  I remember coming to see you for my 11th birthday, you were in hospital, Dad had to get special permission as kids weren't allowed.  They snuck me in through a patio door!  You never came home but I remember.  I remember how they cleared out your shed and it was stashed full, you had even kept Dad's air force uniform from his National Service, 20+ years earlier!

What a lost opportunity that I didn't think to talk to you all more when I had the chance.  Things that we see now as history were things you experienced first hand.  What was it like?  To experience the 20th Century "as it happened"?  To see the increase in adoption of the motor car?  Air travel?  To live through the first world war?  The utter devastation of the flu pandemic that followed?  The early days of women's rights and the Suffragette movement?  What did you think?  The roaring 20's, did you have fun?  How did it feel in 1928 when women won the right to vote?  Did you vote for Winston Churchill?  The fashion changes, showing your ankles for the first time?  The nervous tension and political build up of the depressing 30's?  Then the 40's, and the harsh reality of unfinished business and a second world war, more new fashions and rationing? Then the sweep on the 50's, with Elvis Presley and the Rock 'n' Roll era?  The 60's must have shocked and I can't imagine what you thought when the 70's rolled in!   So much and more!  Sadly, none of you lived to see the end of the century and the advent of the digital age but somehow, I don't think you'd mind too much. You had good lives, but hard lives and I hope you feel your legacy made it all worthwhile, I remember you all so well.

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Life

Your life won't be defined by what you don't do ...

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D-Day 6th June 1944

After knocking out 3 photo albums (Provence, Paris, UK & Brunei - viewable on my Travel blog), it occurred to me this morning that it is way past time for a Blog post!  I have been neglectful but then, nothing has inspired me.  Not a lot of worth in pondering, deliberating, chewing over and thinking about nothing, although plenty do!

I wasn't inspired, until today that is!  On the 70th anniversary of the D-Day landings, the focus of the world is on the beaches of Normandy.  As I browsed the news, I surprised even myself, I cried.  I cried for D-Day, I cried for the many who lost their lives, I cried for those who lost their mobility and I cried for those who lost family, mates and neighbours.   I cried for those who lost their faith in mankind because it is their very act which reminds us we must never lose our faith in mankind.  I cried because I felt humbled that so many risked their lives for liberty on that day, 70 years ago.

I wonder if they would think it worth it today?  I hope so.

Veterans, re-enactments, world leaders speeches, fireworks, ceremony and many tears, all marking the 70th anniversary of a pivotal mission, the beginning of the end of 6 years of wretchedness in Europe, and an event that was, in the words of Winston Churchill - "undoubtedly the most complicated and difficult that has ever taken place", a mission involving 3 million troops and costing 250,000 lives.  Many nations coming together with a common goal, we could learn from them today.

Most people of my generation cannot begin to imagine the horror and fear that comes with such a war.  Yes, today, we hear talk of terrorists, likely exaggerated and of course there is the occasional bomb blast and events in the Middle East, none of which is pleasant but imagine, walking out of your front door every day and not knowing if you will return.  For 6 long year's, not knowing if your house will even be there when you return.   Hell!!!  What about going to bed at night not knowing if you or yours will waken and survive tomorrow and if you do, what nightmare will it bring?  The smell of fire, the noise of the air-raid warnings, the bombs, the destruction and the stench of death.  Then the elation of victory, followed by the horror and the discovery of the death camps.  The recovery and rebuilding, reconciliation and forgiveness.

As France played host, I dried my tears and smiled at pictures of lunch and "The Top Table"!  Centre stage Francois Hollande, France's President, surrounded by Queen Elizabeth and Presidents Obama and Putin!  Who'd want to work out that seating plan!  Fortunately Queen Margrethe of Denmark, a very gracious and elegant lady helped even up the numbers and made boy-girl-boy-girl-boy look like the plan all along!

Pictures in the Huffington Post were haunting, images from today overlaying those of yesterday!
 
The stories from the veterans, especially those who took the opportunity to sneak out of their care homes to attend makes for another tear followed by a smile ...

Inspirational!

Eversley Street, Liverpool - my Mum is in the midst of the crowd here somewhere!  Just 2 years old.

Note: I hope the creator of the D-Day image doesn't mind my borrowing it, I could find no accreditation.

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Our imagination is at risk!!!

I have this theory ... I am not a scientist, this is just my own personal opinion.  The electronic, digital, technology age will seriously and adversely impact evolution of the human race.

Imagination is fundamental to invention and yet the imagination of children is no longer being fed.  From birth they have access to free entertainment, TV, game-boy, computers and so much more ... it is no longer necessary for a child to invent a way to entertain itself, no need for make believe, no need to pretend or make up stories, build castles in the air, no need to make play from nothing ... and without this need?

I fear imaginations won't develop and so the evolution of the human race will slow down.

Just a thought ... one that makes me sad, how 'bout you?

Santa's elves go on strike!

An emergency fax to my Niece, December 2013

Sophie

Can you please check your newspapers?  I don't know what to make of the news bulletin below, what do you think?  If true, it isn't looking good for Ian's jet bike again this year!

I have been unable to contact Father C, but there is an official press release from Lapland, I suspect it may be a cover up and worse still, the elves are in the frame!! 

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE – LAPLAND 24TH December 2013

cc by Jamie C2009

This morning in Lapland, the elves were revolting.  Several elves, led by known troublemakers, have persuaded many in the elf community to go on strike.  The Father Christmas official Government body does not sanction this strike and orders all elves to return to work immediately, OR ELSE!!!

The elves are claiming that Santa ALWAYS gets the whiskey, the mince pies and that he steals all of the credit for their hard work.  They are claiming he sits around, dishing out orders for 364 days each year, then puts in an appearance on one night and takes all the recognition and credit.

It is believed that many of the elves are above themselves following their successful appearance as extras on the recent Hollywood blockbuster Lord of the Rings, when in fact they only made a very brief appearance as extras in the final scene.

GFDL by überarbeitet von mir

Further trouble is expected from Rudolph, who is concerned about the new brakes that have been installed on the sleigh this year.  As Lead Reindeer, he is concerned that without seat-belts (which are not compulsory for this group of merry men), he may be in serious trouble in the event of an emergency stop.

The Lapland Government is requesting that children volunteer to assist in the final stages of present preparation.  All children wishing to assist should prepare a letter to this Government, explaining why they feel able to do the job and also confirming they are not more than 3 feet 10 inches tall (this is standard Government approved elf height).  Children greater than 3' 10" may also apply explaining how they might fit into a uniform designed to fit a smaller form and may be considered if there is a shortfall in the number of children required.  If we are not successful in meeting the minimal numbers, there is a danger that Christmas will be cancelled this year or at best, all deliveries will arrive on Boxing Day, 26th December.

Children are asked to be asleep early on Christmas Eve to ensure letters can be collected in a timely manner.  Letters should be left under the volunteer's pillow and will only be collected once everybody in the household is asleep.  

Letter collection is being organised by the tooth fairy.

cc by Heather Sunderland

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Santa a Terrorist... Breaking News....

News Update, Christmas 2004, fortunately Santa was released, albeit a little late and all children's parcels delivered safely and on time!!

cc by Oren neu dag

It has been reported that a large gentleman with a white beard and a red suit has been apprehended in the United States.  The gentleman in question, seen driving a sleigh recklessly at high speed, and carrying surveillance equipment, was escorted by two  helicopters to the local airport and later transferred to Guantanamo Bay, where President Bash will take personal responsibility for his interrogation.

A gentleman of similar appearance has recently been identified in the UK as a "hoody" and has repeatedly been asked to leave several shopping malls.  Previously, he was thought to have relocated to the zoo, however this is now known to have been an impostor.

President Bash alleges that the bearded guy does not hold a valid passport and is wanted in approximately 43 counties for a range of offences, including breaking & entering and rooftop tile damage.

Bash claims the geezer with the beard has been known to operate under several aliases, including Santa Claus, St Nicholas and more recently, Father Christmas.

cc by Hermielou Maria

A lawyer for Mr Claus claims that he has been repeatedly abused and threats made against his reindeer.   Photographs backing this claim have unofficially been released, however the only thing identifiable on these photographs is an Aussie Barbecue. 

A large sack of unmarked parcels was also found in Mr Claus possession, he claims that these are to be marked up for children around the world once he has completed his annual surveillance of good and bad kids, presumably hoping this explains away the night vision goggles found in the front seat of his sleigh.

cc by debaird

Observers and analysts believe President Bash's behaviour is directly related to trauma in his own childhood, likely because nobody bought him a teddy bear.

cc by Tom Brogan

An official spokesperson for the Government has stated that they do not believe Mr Claus' claims that he was doing a practice run for Christmas.  The spokesperson went on to state that several pictures of the offender have been widely distributed this year and they are glad to have finally made the capture.

British and Australian Governments are working together to secure the release of Mr Claus in time for Xmas, time is running short though and his release is looking increasingly unlikely.

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Dear Sophie, Santa's lost weight....

A copy of a letter to my niece, December 2002

Dear Sophie

Santa's just popped in, he is looking well, lost a bit of weight!  Much better than last year, don't tell anybody but I had a quiet word with him, he had really let himself go but happy to say, it seems to have done the trick.  He has cut out mince pies, eats Rudolph's carrots instead, and he has cut down on the drinking! He tends to mix his drinks, especially when he does the present run on Christmas Eve.

That has created another problem though! Rather than disappoint all the little children and not eat his mince pies, and drinks his beer, Santa has been passing it on to Rudolph instead!  NOT a good idea! You should see the state of Rudolph, he won't even pose for a photo!  If he did you would have trouble fitting him in the view finder!!  Santa looks slim and healthy but Rudolph is so fat he can barely pull the sleigh.  The snow doesn't help – a very slippy take off from Lapland!  Rudolph's nose is redder and even shinier than ever from all the whiskey and his eyes don't look good!

cc by Walter Baxter

Santa claims flying with Rudolph is a bit like being on a roller coaster this year because Rudolph has drunk too many beers.  I have suggested to Rudolph that he share with the other reindeer but he is a bit naughty and keeps it to himself.  It was funny watching him take off from here, he nearly landed in next door's tree!  That'd be trouble!

Santa's face was a picture…

You will definitely hear him land when he arrives on Christmas Eve - listen carefully, he is bigger than an elephant!  You had best check in the morning to make sure he managed to take off OK and that Santa didn't leave him behind.

I told Santa that you are going to midnight mass so he will deliver your presents last. He doesn't finish until after 4 in the morning so thinks you should be home in bed asleep by then. He said if you aren't asleep when he arrives, he will pass by and give you double next year, assuming you are a good girl between now and then of course!

Lots of love

Aunty Jay

XX

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They made a difference - Abraham Lincoln

12 February 1809 to 15 April 1865, age 56

Like many great people, taken too young.  Long before the assassination of JFK, the first president to be taken in such a way, and only days after the war he fought so hard to end and yet one he believed in so passionately.

A man taken too soon by an assassin's bullet, not unlike the 35th President almost 100 year's later - President John F Kennedy, the 50th anniversary of who's death was celebrated just last month.

President Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, not a Founding Father and yet a man who influenced modern times in equal, if not greater measure. Without him, could the world we live in today exist? I think not.

Born around 100 year's after the death of Abraham Lincoln, I feel we shared many of the same values. Above all justice, but also a belief in equality and fairness, in my mind, the same thing.

Who is truly qualified to write about such a great man? Not me, for sure, however a series discussing 'people who make a difference' could never be complete without mention of Abe Lincoln. Personally, I have deep respect and admiration for a man who balanced personal values and politics through such traumatic and chaotic times, in the face of adversity from his enemies and even, at times, his allies.

Like another great man from history (Winston Churchill), Abe Lincoln suffered from depression and yet like Winston, he overcame his own challenges for the good of a nation.  A man who, along with his wife Mary, whom he married at their second attempt and from a slave-owning family herself, suffered the premature loss of three children.  Heartbreaking, how does any parent recover from the loss of one child, never mind three?   Of the surviving gene pool, their direct descendants died out on December 24th 1985 with the demise of their childless Great Grandson, Robert Todd Lincoln Beckwith.

Born on the American frontier, at a time when education was rare and to a harsh life in a one room log cabin.  Largely self taught, an avid reader, both brave and unafraid.  They say an eldest child is destined to be the leader, yet this was not true for Abraham Lincoln who, even as the second child,  met his destiny full on and truly made a difference.

From a young age, when he witnessed slavery first hand soon after arriving in New Orleans, his actions did more than suggest he couldn't support it.   He wanted and strove for a united nation, a United States, one that outlawed slavery, was innovative and offered opportunity to anybody who wanted to capture it in their hands.  Sadly, even today, over a century later, discrimination continues and yet, without his conviction, the first step on the ladder to a unified people may never have been taken.

Lincoln's Gettysburg Address of 1863 remains today, the most quoted speech in US history and we all owe him a great debt.

Famous Quotes

"Both parties deprecated war, but one of them would make war rather than let the Nation survive, and the other would accept war rather than let it perish, and the war came"

"Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt"

"You can fool all the people some of the time, and some of the people all of the time, but you cannot fool all the people all the time"

"Most folks are as happy as they make up their minds to be"

"Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power" (my personal favourite!)

and perhaps most prophetic of all:

"In the end, it's not the years in your life that count.  It's the life in your years"

Useless facts:

• Sun sign (astrology): Aquarius
• Birthplace                : Kentucky
• Myers Briggs           : ISFJ

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So Very Sad, Nelson Mandela ...

18 July 1918 – 5 December 2015

Whatever name you knew him by, Mandela his "English" name, Rolihlahla meaning "troublemaker"  ... Madiba, his clan name, Dalibhunga his grown up name denoting 'convenor of the dialogue', Khulu, meaning "Great One" or Tata, meaning 'father' a term of endearment used by so many South Africans ...  this extraordinary man was inspirational.

cc by South Africa The Good News / www.sagoodnews.co.za

Let us never forget, his momentous fight against discrimination, his relentless determination to reconcile a broken nation, his heroic struggle against adversity, his generosity, his compassion, even towards his jailors, his remarkable and amazing life.  A father, a teacher, a charmer, a man loved by women and men alike, an exceptional orator and a natural leader with a great sense of humour.

That his family fight over his remains is perhaps the biggest tragedy of all ...

On 4th August earlier this year, as I wrote of Nelson Mandela  in my  'They Made a Difference series'... I knew many of us were sad to hear he was fading and now he has gone.

May Nelson Mandela rest in peace ... the world will surely mourn the passing of this genuine and gentle man ... a revolutionary who became a peacemaker ... undoubtedly the greatest man of our times ...

Dear Sophie, Santa's lost his naughty children list...

Dear Sophie

Father Christmas just dropped by to ask me to contact you, he is too embarrassed to tell you himself.  He was very red faced, can you believe, he has LOST his "naughty children list"!  

Can please write him a letter and remind him of all of the times you have been naughty this year.  He remembers you being cheeky to Mummy at least once, in June and he is sure there is more, but he just can't remember.  

He did say that if you write and claim you have been good, Mummy, Daddy AND Grandma will all need to sign the letter too so he knows it is true and accurate.

cc by Michael Coté

Santa will be watching extra carefully over the next few says, while he decides which children will get their presents this year.

Please write quickly, he needs an answer by tomorrow night!!!!

Lots of love

Aunty Jayjinx.com

XX

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Wills and Kate ...

cc by Kate and William, Canada Day 2011

So I'll be honest, I am struggling to make up my mind about this couple.  They seem pleasant, she smiles a lot, she makes him happy or so it seems.

And yet his behaviour and tacit acceptance of her family suggests he craves an ordinary life, he has a very beautiful wife and a bonny baby, he has a privileged life he is the son of, possibly, the most famous woman in the world and the heir to the British throne, so what's the problem?

Well, I guess the catch is this!

 

The constant portrayal of ordinary, a close family, the emphasis on 'no nanny' for the new bub although that didn't last long, the portrayal of the Middleton clan and their homemade 'official' snapshots of Britain's new Prince. Yet surrounded by aides, pomp and ceremony which they quite clearly enjoy.

You see, the trouble is, they are not ordinary, they can never be ordinary, they are Royal, the titles are a bit of a giveaway, clearly enjoyed too and as a Royalist I say "I don't want you to be ordinary, I don't want a Royal family who are just like me, what would be the point?"

Perhaps  Prince William's upbringing has been too 'ordinary' to the point he clearly no longer wishes to be considered Royal?  Perhaps this hints that Prince William is not a Royalist and indeed plans to skip the King bit?  How very sad if that is his choice.

And Kate?

When I first read of their marriage, a few years back, it was put out that she would prefer to be known as Catherine, it seems she soon learned that the public will call you by their own preferred affectionate name, in this case, "Kate" and so it would appear this wasn't pushed by the palace (pretentious perhaps?)

IMHO Kate really needs to cut the apron strings and understand she has married into a very important family who are not and should not be viewed as ordinary.  Ordinary people don't live in Kensington Palace in grand 21 room apartments, ordinary people don't converse with our Queen on a regular basis or stay in stately homes such as Balmoral and Windsor.  The news of the new Granny flat is just one in a long line of items underscoring how the Middleton's will influence the future of our Kingdom and I for one don't feel comfortable with that.  I am sure they mean well but they are no different to you or I, they just have more money and a daughter who married a Prince.

Kate and Will, if you truly wish to be ordinary, by all means be "normal rich people" and lose the titles.  Until then, you are not "normal", you are not "ordinary" you are Royals, accept it or take a back seat and stay quietly in the background, minus your titles of course.  We prefer you don't, we want to respect you but between you and Prince Charles, you are not making it easy to remain a Royalist!  I like and respect Camilla, despite the challenges she has faced, she has remained dignified.  I loved Dianna too, but she isn't here anymore and life moves on.

Long live the Queen and Prince Philip!

What do they want?

We have been witness to news reports of many acts of terrorism in recent years, Kenya being the most recent.  We have been victims of Governments inhibiting our freedom in the name of terrorism in recent years, there are numerous examples.

So here is my question ... What do they want?  The terrorists I mean - what is their end goal?

I am not for a minute suggesting we give it to them (never) it's just that I still don't know, what are they proposing we do to make them stop?

Comment below...

They made a difference - Emily Pankhurst

cc by BBC Radio 4

15 July 1858 - 14 June 1928, age 69

Born Emmeline Goulden on 15 July 1858 in Moss Side, Manchester, educated in Paris and died, on 14 June 1928, age 69 in London, Emily Pankhurst was a powerhouse, a political activist and the champion of British suffragette's.

The eldest of five girls in a family of eleven children, with her maternal roots in the Isle of Man.  My own paternal roots also find themselves in the Isle of Man so it is amusing to fancy that a little bit of Emily's feistiness might also run through my own veins!

Perhaps not coincidentally, the Isle of Man was one of the earliest countries to grant women the right to vote in national elections, in 1881, albeit only property owners.

Much has already been written about Emily Pankhurst, so my intent is not to rewrite her biography, but rather post my own little tribute to a woman who dared to be different. By today's measures, Emily was a working mother with both a career and children, fighting her cause led to time in Holloway Prison and even hunger strikes in a bid to improve conditions for others, and this, long before Bobby Sands even took his first feed.

cc by Leonard Bentley

Emily's approach to women's suffrage took the movement in a different direction, after years of soft talking she encouraged a more militant approach. Their opposition to the draconian's of the time, including Winston Churchill often led to ridicule and casual references to "those ladies who are sometimes laughed at".....

No doubt her proposal to Richard Pankhurst that they enter into a free union was considered scandalous in their day, perhaps fortunately for Emily, he declined and so they wed in December 1879.

In 1914, Emily put aside her determined efforts and diverted her attention to war efforts, helping to recruit women into supporting roles and factories.  She expressed her desire to be consulted on matters of Government in a letter to the new Prime Minister, Lloyd George.
 
Through the achievements of women like Emily Pankhurst, women of Britain today can take for granted their right to vote. Without women like Mrs Pankhurst even the glass ceiling would be little more than a fantasy, we would still be oppressed, barefoot and chained to the sink, most likely pregnant!

In the United Kingdom in 1918, women over the age of 30 were granted the right to vote but it was another ten years and a little over two weeks after her death before women were granted a franchise equal to that of men when the Representation of the People (Equal Franchise) Act 1928 was finally given Royal assent on 2nd July 1928.

Thank you Emily Pankhurst!  You made a difference....

For more extensive history of related world dates .... Click here..... and for an interesting read about 'the story of Parliament and votes for women', try here....

Useless facts:

• Sun sign (astrology): Cancer
• Myers Briggs           : one can only wonder

cc by UK Government archives

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