Week 48 of 2025

 

Good morning, all, I hope all is well with everyone.

Sunday has arrived after good night’s sleep for me with 9hrs & 23 minutes, the app says I was awake for 41 minutes during the night. This may be due to Tim waking me at midnight saying he didn’t have his restless legs medication and had me get out of bed to look for it, turns out he doesn’t have any. I checked the chemist app and that says there is no script on file, he is going to go and speak to them at 9am when they open.

My BGL this morning was 7.1 and the temp at 6am was 19C or 66F.

It started raining around 8.30am and the temp was 21C or 69F but it didn’t last long. It turned out to be a nice warm day. We had a top temp of 25C or 77F.

Steps:10,609 = 5.3klm’s or 3.2miles

Good morning, everyone, I hope all are well this Monday morning, I had a good night got 9hrs & 30mins of sleep was awake for 30mins during the night that would be when I went to the loo.  It is a cool 18C or 64F my BGL is 5.9.

My Chrisco arrived today, I had forgotten that I ordered and ice cream hamper and had to get Sue to come and help me unpack it. The freezer is now choke ablock can’t get another thing in it.

Everything I tried to eat today ended up a mess, I had a caramel tart and got it all over my hands, then when I had lunch, I got mayo all over my hands. Then I had some yogurt and got that also all over my hands.

Steps: 9,960 = 5klm’s or 3mile

Hi all, I slept well, got up at 4.50 before the alarm, washed dressed and did the housework, including washing the sheets. It is going to be another hot day at 5.30 it waws 19C or 66F my BGL was 6.9.

Sue drove Sam and Jess to Sam’s doctor’s appointment as Jess didn’t want to wor4ry about finding a parking spot.

By midday it was 31C or 87F so I turned the air con on.

This afternoon Tasha and Blain came over to see me, which I liked, later Sam and Bailey came over. Then just after they left things went bad. I saw Jess coming over and she was crying their pet bunny called Opei died, Sam had just found him dead they had him for a long time as in like 10yrs.

Oddly Jess’s next door neighbour’s pet dog had died also around the same time.

I have arranged with Blain to take the Christmas gifts I have for my niece Kelli and her children to his dad’s place so they can be passed on at Christmas time.

Steps: 10,859 = 5.5klm’s or 3.5 miles

Had a good night was up at 4.30am as I was awake it is supposed to be another stinking hot day at 5.30am it was 23C or 73.4F and windy, the breeze was a little on the warm side, my BGL was 6.9.

While having breakie I knocked the plate of the table breaking it and spilling my scones on the floor, which I picked up and fed to the birds.

I got a phone call from Tim about the information we need from Youi for my DSP claim with Centrelink, he received an email with information and after a lot of hassle I have managed to find what I think we need and will scan them into my computer and upload to the claim.

It is now 9am and it is 30C or 86F, I have turned the air con on and shut the house up to keep the heat out.

Tasha came and wrapped the presents for Kelli and her kids.

At 3pm it was 32C or 89.6F

By 7.30pm it had dropped to 28C or 82.4F

Steps: 11,449 = 5.8klm’s or 3.6 miles

Good morning, everyone it is Thursday the 27th I hope all my friends, and readers in the USA have a good Thanksgiving.

I had a good night’s sleep got around 10hrs & 29min of sleep woke up with the alarm, it is a cool morning, but we are in for another stinking hot day at the moment the temp is 20C or 68F my BGL was 6.8.

Sue and I went shopping as it is her payday, we went early so we could get it all done and be home before the centre got too crowded and the day got too hot.

It reached a top of 33C or 91.4F today I didn’t do much after returning home from shopping, read some blog posts, sorted out my mail and wrote todays    blog post.

Blain came down to see me again today I have seen a fair bit of him this last week and have to say I love it.

Steps: 7, 994 = 4klm’s or 2.4 miles

I am up and running make that walking from 4.30am, I woke to pee and since I was awake decided to just stay up. I have cleaned the kitchen and will make breakie after Tim leaves, I will also need to vacuum after he leaves. I am waiting for him to get up before I go and get dressed.

It is 18C or 64.4F at 5am and we are headed for a top of 30C or 86F, so another hot day.

I had to use the walker when I emptied the recycle boxes into the outside bin.

I had the air con on for 3hrs but turned it off at 1.30pm as even though it was 28C or 82F there was a nice breeze outside and with the doors open and the fans going it was ok.

Saw Blain again he came down twice once just to say hi the second time to get me to print up his resume.

Steps:5,502 = 2.6klm’s or 1.6miles

I slept straight through the night waking when the alarm went off, I was getting dressed in the bathroom and decided I needed to wash my hair, so I   had a shower.

It is 19C or 66F at 6am and we are looking at a top temp of 31C again. At the moment it is nice with the doors open.

I am very unsteady on my feet this morning needing the walker to get around the house as I feel like I am going to fall.

My BGL this morning is 7.2

Tim has his works Christmas party today he will catch a ride to the pickup point with our neighbour Gary, and I guess that’s how he will get home again. Actually, it is Gary’s dad driving them to the station there is a bus leaving the station at 10am to take them to the party.

By 10 am it is 28C or 82.4F

At 5pm my legs came good, I could walk normally, and my feet no longer felt like lead weights.

Steps:5,971 = 3.4klm’s or 2 miles

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Caturday with Luca

 

Here we are at another Saturday, or should that read Caturday and this week we have Luca.

Hi there everyone this is me Luca trying to help mum with the laundry and by helping, I mean I was taking a nap in the laundry basket and mum had to take my photo before telling me to get out she needed the basket. I was not amused

 

Japan's National Anthem

 

This Friday we are looking at Japan’s national anthem it is one of the world's oldest and shortest anthems it is called Kimigayo. It expresses a wish for longevity and continuity, traditionally interpreted as honouring the Emperor’s reign.

The name Kimigayo roughly means “His Majesty’s Regin”

Even though it was long used informally, it was legally enshrined in 1999 under the Act on National Flag and Anthem.

The anthem is closely tied to Japan’s monarchy, which has sparked debate. Some see it as a symbol of continuity and tradition, while others criticize its association with pre-WWII militarism.

It is sung at official ceremonies, schools, and international sporting events. Its brevity and poetic origin set it apart from most other national anthems, which are often martial or celebratory in tone.

The English translation is

May your reign continue for a thousand, eight thousand generations,
Until the pebbles grow into boulders,
Lush with moss.

 

Cornea transplant

 

Ok this week we are looking at cornea transplant the cornea is the transparent outer layer of the eye that covers the iris and pupil. If someone’s cornea becomes damaged or diseased they will not be able to see correctly, a cornea transplant can be performed to fix the problem.

There are many things that can cause damage to the cornea such as bacteria or viruses, a chemical injury, a cut or scratch or just aging.

This operation is very difficult, surgeons work using a special operating microscope to magnify the eye 30 to                     60 times what it is.

The damaged cornea is cut with a circular blade with a hole in the centre, kinda like punching out a circle of pastry with a pastry cutter, after this is done the damaged cornea is removed.

Then the surgeon cuts a disc from a healthy donated cornea and places it carefully in the hole, with this new disc being held in place by stitching it to the edges of the cornea.

This new cornea will allow the person to see clearly again in a couple of months; however, the stitches need to be in place for a year.

After the operation the patient only needs to stay in hospital for a short while, but they must take great care, they will need special drops to help the eye heal and be kept clean. Only gentle movements are allowed for a few days to give the new cornea time to settle into place. After a few weeks things should return to normal.

After donated corneas are removed they can be stored in an eye bank for up to a month they are kept at between 2 & 6 degrees centigrade in a special solution containing chemicals and drugs. Which keep them healthy till needed, now days there are artificial corneas which are a synthetic implant that can be used if there is no natural one available or if there has been failures when transplanting in the past.

The first cornea transplant was in 1906, since then the advances in medicine have made it one of the most successful transplant operations. The cornea has no blood vessels and therefore the white blood cells of the immune system cannot reach it and the body is very unlikely to reject the new tissue.

The post with links to other posts

 

My post with links to other posts and a few photos as well

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/11/a-not-thanksgiving-hodgepodge.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/11/tuesdays-4_25.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/11/stealing-sunday_25.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/11/depression-and-parkinsons-disease.html

 

 

Emu

 

This week we are looking at the Emu they are the second-largest living birds in the world, native only to Australia, and known for their speed, endurance, and unique breeding habits.

They stand up to 1.75–2 meters tall and weigh 50–55 kg (110–121 lbs), with brownish feathers with a shaggy texture; long legs adapted for running. They have three forward-facing toes, which help them sprint and manoeuvre quickly.

Some may know and some may not know but emus can run as fast as 50 km/h which is 31 mph, and they can jump up to 2 meters which is 7 feet and to that they are damn strong swimmer and move through water damn fast when they want to.

These birds are omnivorous with their diet consisting of seeds, fruits, flowers, shoots, and insects like beetles and grasshoppers. They will travel long distances to find food and water, often forming loose groups called “mobs.”

They will mate for life in the wild, the female will lay 7–10 large dark green eggs, each about 13 cm long, but it the male who incubates the eggs for ~60 days and raises the chicks, while the female often moves on to mate again.

Now are you wondering what they sound like, well the female makes a deep, low-pitched sounds that can sound like drumming and often described as a hollow and resonant sound. These calls can carry for long distances and are used for communication, especially during breeding season. Males tend to sound like a soft grunt.

These calls are used to attract mates, signal territory, or keep contact with other emus.

Have you heard of the Emu War of 1932 this was a war us humans lost, the Australian army tried to cull emus damaging crops, but the birds proved too elusive. Despite firing 10,000 rounds of ammunition, fewer than 1,000 were killed, and the “war” was considered a failure.

Japan's Geisha

 

This week we are still in Japan, and I am going to share a bit about the Geisha.

Geisha originated in Japan during the Edo period as highly trained entertainers skilled in traditional arts—not prostitutes, as often misunderstood. The first geisha were men, but women soon became the dominant figures in the profession.

The earliest geisha-like figures were saburuko, female entertainers during the 7th century. Some performed dances and music, while others offered companionship or sexual services.

The modern concept of geisha emerged in Kyoto’s pleasure quarters. Initially, male performers entertained guests with music and storytelling. By the mid-18th century, women took over the role, specializing in refined arts like shamisen (three-stringed instrument), nihon-buyo (classical dance), and sadō (tea ceremony).

The Geisha culture thrived in Kyoto and Osaka, between 1688 and 1704, these women became cultural icons, versed in literature, poetry, and etiquette. They were distinct from courtesans, focusing solely on artistic performance.

Aspiring geisha trained in okiya (boarding houses) under senior geisha. Young apprentices, called maiko, learned through observation and practice before debuting as full geisha.

Between 1868 & 1912 Western influence challenged traditional roles, but geisha adapted by blending modern elements with heritage. Their popularity persisted, especially in Kyoto.

After WW11 during Allied Occupation abolished state-sanctioned prostitution, leading to confusion about geisha roles. Geisha reaffirmed their identity as artists, not sex workers.

 Today’s Geisha are mostly found in Kyoto’s hanamachi (geisha districts), they continue to perform at private banquets (ozashiki) and public festivals. Their appearance—white makeup, elaborate kimono, and traditional hairstyles—remains iconic.

They are now seen as custodians of Japanese performing arts. Some schools, like the Inoue school in Kyoto, teach exclusive dance styles such as kyo-mai, passed down only within the geisha community.

 

Week 47 of 2025

 

IT IS MY BIRTHDAY I AM 63 TODAY

Good morning everyone, I hope all are doing well.

Even though I don’t have an alarm set for Sunday I was still up at 5am this morning, it is a nice 19C or 66F, my BGL was 6.8 at 6am.

The first birthday message I received was from Kelli, then I got one from Jonathon, then Sue, Sandy and Jeannie.

It is starting to get hot and at midday it is 29C or 84F. Kathy came over to see me; she bought me a bible.

Tim cooked me a piece of rump steak with chips and gravy for lunch it was really nice.

By 3pm it was 31C or 87.8F

I have had a nice day, I did bugga all just wrote letters, watched YouTube and vacuumed once.

Steps: 4,691 = 2.3lm’s

Good morning, everyone in blog land.

I had a good night’s sleep getting 8hrs and 57mins last night, I know I didn’t wake till 4.10am to pee, then up at 5am.

It is 17C at 5.30am, my BGL was 6.8

After taking Sam to Tafe, Sue and I went to Big W and she bought me the cushion I wanted for my computer chair. However, when I sat on the computer chair it went down and wouldn’t go up again, damn the struts are gone. I had to get the old black chair I am glad I still have it.

It's been a warm day with a top temp of 25C or 77F

Steps:14,703 = 7.5Klm’s or 4.6miles

How is everyone this morning

LEIGH’S BIRTHDAY

I had a good night with around 7hrs 33mins of sleep, I have nothing on today and it is currently 12C at 5.30am.

My groceries will be delivered between 12 & 1 today that is late. After they arrived, I turn the air con on.

Tim has an appointment to get his Xray’s, and scans done. He is convinced they will show something bad but that is his negative attitude. He has thought things like this before and was wrong.

I started to sort through photos and add them to albums well I filled one album and sort the rest of the photos, tossing out a lot of duplicates. Still have a lot more to do and still can’t find my photo albums which is so annoying.

Steps: 12,075 = 6.1klms or 3.7miles.

Good morning everyone reading this, I hope life is treating you well.

After a rough start to the night, I ended up sleeping well and had around 6hrs and 30mins of sleep, this morning it is 15C or 50F at 5.30am but we are supposed to have a stinking hot day with a top temp of 30C.

I tossed a load of clothes in to wash and hung them out to dry and took the clothes hoists outside.

Sue and Sam came and helped me with the Christmas decorations; I am happier now.

At 1.30pm it is 29C or 84F, so I turned the A/C on.

It is 4pm and I am really starting to feel tired but I don’t have to do anything so I will stick it out till 7.30pm when I will go to bed.

Steps: 11,833 = 6klm’s or 3.9 miles.

Good morning everyone, hope you are all feeling good today.

I had a good night slept straight through getting around 9hrs sleep, even though my watch says I only got 7hrs & 42mins.

This morning it is a nice 17C or 62F, we are headed towards a top of 28C or 82F.

My BGL this morning was 6.5 at 5.30am before breakfast.

I started to feel unwell around 11am the hotter it got the worse in felt and had no energy. However, after a small bowl of ice cream and a 20m minute nap I felt better.

I had a phone call from Centrelink about my DSP claim they want more information about Tim’s compo claim after his accident.

We had some rain this afternoon, nothing heavy but we did have some thunder as well.

Steps: 7,142 = 3.8klm’s or 2.3miles

Hello everyone, it is the last day of the working week and it’s going to be a cool day here with showers throughout the day according to the weather app.

Another Friday has arrived, and it is going to be a much cooler day then Thursday was, we are looking at a top temp of only 21C or 69F. At 5.30 it is 19C or 66F. My BGL was 7.1 at 5.30am.

I had 8hrs and 51mins of sleep last night and was awake for 24 mins according to my watch.

I had to change out of shorts into 3/4 pants as my legs were cold. I also closed the front door.

By 5.30pm it was raining not heavy but steady and was still raining as I get ready for bed at 8pm.

Jessica gave Tim a present gardening tools, not for any special occasion but just because she loves her dad. She saw them and thought dad will like those, so she bought them for him.

Steps: 6,785 = 3.4klms or 2miles

Hello everyone, I all have a good day, here we are at Saturday, it is still cool the temp at 5.30am is 19C or 66F, there is no rain at the moment and my BGL was 6.4

At 9.30 Tim and went and picked our granddaughter Sydney up from her dad’s and drove her to her mum’s this we did so we could say goodbye to them as they are leaving tomorrow for a holiday in Bali.

This afternoon Tim sent an email off to Youi about his motorbike accident as Centrelink wants information he can’t find. This has stressed him out and he started yelling at me. He went on about why does Centrelink want to know all this stuff, I said I have no idea.

Tim also planned our week away in December and booked accommodation we are only going to Dubbo, Orange and Cowra but it will be nice to get away.

Steps: 5,998 = 3klm’s or 1.7 miles

 

 

 

 

 

 

Eye Colour

 

Ok time to write a bit more about our eyes, this week we will start with eye colour. Our eye colour is determined by the amount of pigment which is also called melanin is present, most dark-skinned people have a lot of melanin thus they have darker eye colour. If someone has pale skin their eye colour can vary from a very pale grey to blue, green or brown.

Iris colour is controlled by a single pair of genes one we get from our mother the other from our father, the gene for brown eyes is the dominant one so if your mum has brown eyers and your dad blue you will have brown eyes. I have brown eyes like mum, dad had hazel eyes, like Tim he has hazel eyes and all our girls have brown eyes like me.

Can we change our eye colour, well first why would you want to anyway if you want to have different colour eyes you can wear coloured contact lenses which is the most common and reversible method. Also, eye colour can appear to shift subtly depending on lighting, makeup, or the colours you wear.

Babies are often born with blue or grey eyes that darken over time due to melanin development.

Some people experience subtle changes in eye colour as they age, though it’s usually not dramatic.

 

The post with links to other posts

 

My post with links to other posts and a few photos as well

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/11/tuesday-4-on-wednesday.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/11/a-thankful-hodgepodge_19.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/11/what-is-sister.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/11/new-tattoos.html

 

Kookaburra

 

This week’s bird is the kookaburra, which is a large, iconic bird native to Australia and famous for its loud laugh. It is part of the kingfisher family. It has a loud, cackling laugh often heard at dawn and dusk nicknamed the “bushman’s clock”

They are between 39-45cm’s in length and weigh between 370-450grm. Or 15-18 inches and 13-16 ounces.

What do they look like well they have a cream-white underparts, dark brown wings, reddish tail with black bars, and a prominent dark eye stripe.

They are native to eastern Australia; found in eucalyptus forests, woodlands, parks, and suburban gardens, their diet is carnivorous they feed on eats insects, small reptiles, rodents, and even snakes; uses a “wait-and-pounce” hunting method.

They are monogamous and territorial and make their nests in tree hollows or termite mounds and it isn’t uncommon for the young to stay with parents to help raise future chicks.

The kookaburra is deeply embedded in Australian culture, featured in children’s songs like “Kookaburra sits in the old gum tree.”

Its call is often used in movies and TV to evoke jungle or wild settings — even in places where kookaburras don’t live!

They typically live 10–15 years in the wild but can reach 20–25 years or more in captivity. Despite their resilience, kookaburras are sensitive to environmental changes. Conservation efforts that protect forests and nesting sites help ensure their survival in the wild.

In the northern part of the country there is a blue-winged kookaburra, which I know nothing about.

 

Japan Pt 4

 

Time for another post about Japan this week I will share some facts like the population in 2025 is estimated to be approximately 123.1 million. It is the 12 most populous country in the world with a global rank of 12, the population density is 338 people per kilometre.

Japan’s population has been steadily declining since its peak around 2010 due to: low birth rates, high life expectancy and limited immigration. Over 28% of the population is aged over 65.

Now to Japan’s religious landscape is shaped by a unique blend of traditions, with Shinto and Buddhism as the two dominant faiths. Most Japanese people engage with both, often without exclusive affiliation.

Shinto means The Way of the Kami or the way of the Gods is Japan’s indigenous belief system, emphasizing harmony with nature, ancestor worship, and purification rituals. It lacks a founder, sacred texts, or rigid dogma.

Shinto shrines are common across Japan and serve as spiritual centres for festivals and life events.

Buddhism arrived in Japan from China and Korea in the 6th century. Multiple sects exist, including Zen, Pure Land, and Nichiren.

Surveys often show that 40–60% of Japanese identify as having “no religion”, but this typically reflects a lack of formal affiliation rather than disbelief. Many still participate in religious customs, festivals, and rituals for cultural or spiritual reasons.

Japan’s religious identity is fluid, ritual-cantered, and deeply intertwined with cultural life rather than doctrinal belief.

Now how about their flag, as I am sure most know it features a red circle on a white background, symbolizing the sun and most will know it reflects Japan’s identity as the Land of the Rising Sun.

The sun has been revered in Japan since ancient times, tied to the Shinto sun goddess Amaterasu, considered the mythical ancestor of the imperial family.

 

 

 

 

Week 46 of 2025

 

A good night’s sleep managed to get 8hrs & 56mins it is 17C this morning at 6.30am and my BGL was 7.1, it isn’t supposed to be as hot today.

By midday it was 25C so non need for the air con or fan just had the doors open. My BGL was 7.5 at midday before lunch.

I had to shut the front door at 2pm as the wind is now cold. At 4.30 my BGL wad 5.9.

It is now 7pm the temp is 16C and I am calling it a day; Tim is asleep on the lounge behind me.

Steps: 9,200 = 4.6klmns or 2.8miles

I slept for 10hrs, didn’t wake at all and I feel great this morning. My BGL at 5.30 was 6.5 and the temp was 14C or 57F

I spent 2.5hrs working on next year’s calendars but they are now done and ordered.

It hasn’t been that warm today top temp was 24C or 75F which is ok.

I have spent most of the day going around on autopilot especially this afternoon, but I did get stuff done other than the calendars I mopped the bathroom, laundry and kitchen floors. I vacuumed twice and swept the ramp out the front.

I also answered one letter still have a number to do.

Steps: 8,743 = 4.4klms or 2.7 miles

I slept for 9hrs & 20 Mins, didn’t wake at all and I am feeling good this crisp spring morning with a temp of 13C or 55.4F. I have physio this arvo which part of me doesn’t feel like attending but of course I will go.

I have been busy this morning with housework and exercising and reading and posting blogs, doing the laundry and running the dishwasher on a long wash to clean the machine as well as cleaning the dishes.

Tim finally went to the doctors to get his scrips and complain about his aching body; he now has to have more Xrays and CT scans done next Tuesday the 18th

By midday it is 25C or 77F, Sue and I went to my physio appointment, the new woman we saw was nice, she was young. I have been given new exercises to do, and I go back in January.

By the time we got back from the physio appointment it was 2.30 and 27C or 80.6F and my left arm is so sore.

Steps: 8,414 = 4.2klms or 2.6 miles              

I had another good night slept for 7hrs with waking only once to pee, my left arm is very sore this morning. It is only 12C or 53.6F this morning and thankfully it is not supposed to be hot with a top temp expected to be only 21C or 69F.

Sue took me to have the cortisone injection, it went well, we then went to pick up some photos I had printed. Then we went and got KFC for lunch.

Around 2pm I started to get a headache and remembered that I always get on when I have that injection.

By 5pm the headache was bad, and I was starting to feel sick, my BGL was 14.9 but that due to the injection, it should go down some overnight.

It is 6pm and I’m off to bed as I feel horrible.

Steps:9,832 = 4.9klms or 3 miles

I slept great had 10hrs ad 52 mins of sleep woke once at 4.10am to pee, then again when the alarm went off.

At 6am it is 10C or 50F, it is supposed to reach a top of 30C or 86F. My BGL is 9.4 due to cortisone.

I went shopping with Sue and all went well I was starting to feel exhausted by the time I got home.

I have decided to not walk on the cobblestones in the visitors parking area as it always makes me feel unstable.

At 1.30pm my BGL is 10.4 it is also 28C or 82.4F. I turned the air con on as the heat wasn’t helping my headache.

At 7pm my BGL had dropped to 7.9 which is normal.

Tonight is Sam’s formal; I hope to get a photo of her and Bailey.

Steps: 13,813 = 7klm’s or 4.3 miles

Had a good night sleep managed to get 7hrs & 20 mins, my BGL was 7.1 when I got up and the temp was around 10C or 50F, I was up at 4.30 due to the pain in my left side.

I had a nice shower after Tim left so after I get the tattoo I will not have to worry about a shower for another couple of days.

At 8am the temp was 19C or 66F

Sue picked me and Jess up at 9am and drove us to Hamilton but as we were early, we went and had a milkshake, and Jess had a bacon and egg wrap. The tattoo took I think 1hr and 50 minutes, but I may be wrong about that, I slept for a good part of it. I am happy with how it looks.

I also had the name Sam added to my right hand near the name Leo.

Steps: 4,263 = 2klm’s or 1 mile

Good morning world, I was up at 5am as per usual, cleaned the kitchen, swept outside, vacuumed out, tossed on a load of washing, mediated and now it’s about time to check my emails.

My BGL at 6am was 6.8 and I slept for 7hr & 54 mins last night.

It doesn’t feel like I have done much today, I did hang the washing out to dry and I vacuumed again. I then spent well over an hour sorting through my mail and starting one letter which I just must print.

Steps: 11,582 = 5.9klm’s or 3.6 miles

 

 

 

 

 

Friday 14 November

 

Hello everyone, today is Friday the 14 and I have had what feels like a long and busy week, Sue will be driving me and Jess into Hamilton so I can get at last the train tattoo in honour of my dad. I will post photos of it when it’s done.

I think the reason it feels like I have had a busy week is because I have gone out every day this week and I usually don’t do that.

Yesterday Tim bought me a small rechargeable desk fan which I have set up and will come in handy during the warm days.

I have done the usual housework this morning, vacuuming, unpacking the dishwasher, sweeping out the front as well as my usual exercises and of course I feed the birds this morning.

Ok it is now 12.45pm and I have just returned home from getting my tattoo done, it went well and I even managed to sleep for the first 75 minutes all up took around an hour and half.

Yes, I am happy with it. Thank you, Jess, for arranging it and thank you Sue for driving us there and home again.

Next week should be the usual stay at home and not go out type of week.

The post with links to other posts

 

My post with links to other posts and a few photos as well

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/11/tuesday-4-on-tuesday-dont-faint.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/11/stealing-sunday.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/11/just-some-more-hodgepodge.html

 

Eye Layers

 

Well, here we are at another Wednesday and this week we looking at the what makes up our eyes, many of us have never really looked at our eyes.

Our eyebrows are thickened ridges of skin covered with short hairs, they come over the bone of the skull above the eye, protecting the eye from dust and such. The stop sweat dripping into the eye, they also protect the eye from some blows to the head.

Then we have our eyelids which we all know are folds of skin that open at the front of the eyeball. However, did you know they are made up of four layers an outer layer of skin with hairs we call eyelashes, then there is a layer of muscle, which allow the eyelid to open and close. There is also a layer of fibres and oil glands as well as a thin transparent inner layer.

Our eyelids protect the eye from many things and as soon as something threatens the eye, it will instantly close this is a reflex reaction. Out eyelids also allow us to blink and when we do tears are spread over the eyeball keeping it moist.

Did you know our eyelashes have around 200 fine hairs, with each one lasting about four months before it falls out and is replaced.

The outer layer of the eyeball is made up of the sclera and cornea, the sclera makes up about five-sixths of the layer and the cornea is one-sixth. The sclera is a tough, fibrous membrane and is the part we think of as the white part of the eye. It gives the eyeball its shape and protects the structures inside the eye.  The cornea is transparent and lies in front of the iris and pupil, it makes a small bulge at the front of the eye. It has no blood vessels and it bends the light a little as it enters the eye.

Now to the conjunctiva this is joined continuously with the sclera, it is a thin transparent membrane that forms the inner lining of the eyelids. It also covers the whole surface of the eyeball except for the cornea.  As we need to move the eyeball it is slack around the edges.

Lastly we have the iris and the pupil with the pupil being the small black dot we can see which is actually a hole and around it is a coloured ring called the iris which controls the size of the pupil by opening and shutting.

Next week we will look at eye colour

 

Cockatoo

 

Last week I wrote about birds in general, this week I am writing about the Cockatoo.

Cockatoos are intelligent, expressive parrot’s native to Australasia, known for their dramatic crests, powerful beaks, and deep emotional bonds with humans. They’re among the most affectionate and long-lived pet birds.

There are around 21 recognized species, including the Sulphur-crested, Galah, Palm, and Major Mitchell’s cockatoos

They are native to Australia, New Guinea, Indonesia, and the Solomon Islands.

Typically white, black, or pink with dramatic crests; less rainbow-coloured than other parrots

Their beak is strong, curved with a unique “three-way bite” for cracking nuts and gripping objects

They live in flocks and form lifelong pair bonds, they are loud and expressive, you wouldn’t want one if you lived I an apartment due to their volume.

They like to eat seeds, nuts, fruits, roots, and insects; use their beaks and strong tongues to forage.

They have a lifespan: 25–60 years, with some living over 70 years in captivity, in the wild they live in tree hollows and both parents care for their young.

They reproduce through internal fertilization, followed by egg-laying and a dedicated incubation period of about 28–30 days. The female lays 1–3 eggs per clutch, typically spaced a few days apart. Eggs are laid in a nest cavity or nesting box lined with wood shavings or soft material. The eggs are white and oval, and both parents may take turns incubating them.

Incubation lasts 28–30 days, during which the eggs must be kept at a stable temperature (~37.2°C) and humidity (55–60%).

Eggs are turned regularly to ensure even development and prevent the embryo from sticking to the shell. They are born blind and featherless, relying entirely on their parents. Their feathers start appearing in a few weeks and by 10 to 12 weeks they are ready to leave the nest.

They are highly social and attentive parents, often forming lifelong bonds. They teach their young vocalizations, foraging, and social behaviours essential for survival.

 

Japan Pt 3

 

Time for some more facts about Japan we will start with the fact that it is the custom to remove shoes before entering a house.

This is a deeply intrenched tradition which is tied to cleanliness, respect and cultural boundaries. In fact, it dates back to the Heian period which was way back in 794. Back then nobles would remove footwear to protect raised wooded floors. However, it became widespread from 1603 thus evolving into the national norm across all social classes.

Now days the removal of shoes is a sign of respect for the homeowner and their space; it reflects the idea that the home is a sacred and private place.

Now many of you like me may wonder why they do this, well shoes carry dirt, moisture and bacteria into a house these things can damage delicate flooring like tatami mats. Tatami mats are used for sitting, eating, and sleeping, so keeping them clean is essential.

Japan’s humid climate makes homes vulnerable to mould, especially during the rainy season—removing shoes helps prevent this.

In Japanese homes there is an area called a genkan, this is a lower entry area where shoes are removed. This space marks the transition from the “soto” (outside) to the “uchi” (inside), reinforcing social and spatial boundaries.

So, what do there wear inside? Usually slippers if not barefoot, however, special slippers are used for bathrooms to maintain hygiene between rooms.

Many wear socks inside their homes, especially in formal settings or during the colder months.

When visiting someone’s home, it is considered polite to wear clean socks after removing outdoor shoes. Bare feet may be seen as too casual or unhygienic. It is normal for people to carry clean socks with them as not to be caught wearing socks with holes, as this would be highly embarrassing.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Week 45 of 2025

 

I woke at 6am up washed and dressed it is supposed to   be another warm day, I slept well got 7hrs 16mins of sleep. The temp this morning is 18C or 64F.

Tim and I went shopping and by the time we were done I was so exhausted, it showed so Tim told me to not walk so fast and to take it easy.

Today’s top temp was 25C or 77F and I have felt sticky most of the day.

By 7.30pm it’s 20C and I am so exhausted I am going to bed.

Steps:12, 710 = 6klm’s or 3.8 miles

BGL: 6.5

Up at 5am as per usual and waiting for Tim to leave for work till I have a shower, speaking of Tim he looks exhausted I asked how he slept only got a mumble reply, he said something about heat stroke but that’s not what’s wrong with him but what do I know. We are in for another very warm to hot day. At the moment it is 18C or 64F.

Sue’s Dr’s appointment was stressful as the doctor she saw went on about her weight, smoking and did she need her anxiety medication. Sue has her regular GP and only saw this woman because her GP was booked out. Her toe is healing well.

By midday the temp here is 28C or 82F and I had to turn the air con on.

BGL:6.0

Steps: 16,600 =n 8.5klm’s or 8 miles

It is 1.30am and I have had no sleep due to dyskinesia, and I am so tired but every time I lay down the jerking movements will not let me settle, I have been up and down for hours, and I am so frustrated.

At 3.15am I decided to come and sit in my recliner should had done that earlier as I fell asleep quick there.

I was still up at 5.45am dressed and reading blogs while I wait for the groceries to be delivered after that I will go back to bed for a little while. I had around 2hrs sleep.

I had a 1.5hr nap at 9am.

It has been a warm day.

BGL 6.0

Steps 7,307 = 3.6klm’s or 2 miles

I slept really well, got 9hrs & 54mins, didn’t wake at all. Sue took me to the doctors then we went to Woolies before coming home.

I have been referred to have a cortisone injection in my right hip area, as I do have bursitis.

It is a nice 22C today, well it was till around 1pm when it went up 25C or 77F.

I am feeling sad this afternoon, I don’t know why I just do.

Steps: 8,882 = 4.5klm’s or 2.8miles

BGL:6.1

I slept well had a good 8hrs sleep didn’t wake at all. It is 13C or 55.4F here this morning it is supposed to be 25C today.

I have had a busy morning, vacuumed twice, swept the kitchen floor, unpacked the dishwasher, did a load of laundry hung it up and took the clothes hoists outside to dry. Emptied a couple of bins and Sam took the bags outside to the black bin. Cleaned the skirting boards in the hallway. Checked emails and read some blogs.

Yes, Sam came over for food she made herself a toasted ham & cheese sandwich.

It has been a warm day with a top temp of 25C or 77F.

It has felt like a long day.

BGL @ 5.30am 6.1

Steps: 13,868 = 7klm’s or 4.2 miles

I didn’t have a good night I was unable to settle and at 12.40am I got up and checked emails, then I sat in my recliner and went to sleep, I only stayed there 50 minutes then I went back to bed and fell asleep pretty fast.

I got up at 5.30 after Tim left and had a shower, after getting dressed I came out opened the house up, tidy the kitchen and vacuumed out. Yes, I am still tired and yes, I could have stayed in bed longer, but this is my best part of the day, and I can have a nap later.

Last night when I was unable to sleep, I emailed the Xray place about an appointment and they rang at 9.30 to let me know that they have one next Wednesday at 10.20am.

I went and had a nap at 11am, I slept till 12.20 and didn’t move at all during that time.

The temp at 5.30 is 15C or 59F

The temp at 12.30 is 25C or 77F

The temp at 4pm is 29C of 84F

BGL @ 6.30 is 7.0

BGL @ 9.30 is 7.7

BGL @ 4pm is 8.1

Steps: 7,851 = 4klm’s or 2.5 miles

I slept well I was in bed by 6.40pm as I was so tired and slept through till 4.40am when I got up to pee. When the alarm went, I laid there for 20 minutes before getting up. No milkshake this morning as I took the blender apart and put it in the dishwasher which hasn’t been on yet. I might just have a glass of Milo instead.

Tim and I went shopping and it took a lot out of me and Tim started to fill unwell, so cut it short and came home.

It has been a sticky day, and I had to turn the air con on around midday, the wind is a hot one.

I am feeling exhausted and will be in bed early again.

The temp at 6am is 20C

The temp at midday is 27C or 80.6F

The temp at 2pm is 33C or 94.4F

BGL: @ 6am 6.1

BGL: @ 12pm 7.5

BGL: @ 5pm 7.0

Steps: 9,866 = 5klms or 3 miles