The post with links to other posts

 

My post with links to other posts.

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/08/august-questions.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/08/tuesdays-4.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/08/summer-hodgepodge-in-winter.html

 

Giant Panda

 

This week we are looking at the giant panda, which is a bear, I never thought of them as being part of the bear family.

Giant pandas belong to the bear family, whereas red pandas are in their own family, and they are more closely related to raccoons. Interestingly, giant pandas are more closely related to polar bears than to red pandas.

Giant pandas are typically 4 to 6 feet long and stand 2 to 3 feet tall at the shoulder. They can weigh between 220 and 330 pounds, with males tending to be larger than females,  Newborn pandas are very small, about the size of a stick of butter. 

Giant pandas live in the mountain ranges of southwestern China, specifically in the provinces of Sichuan, Shaanxi, and Gansu. They inhabit bamboo forests at elevations between 5,000 and 10,000 feet. Their habitat is characterized by humid, wet conditions and is often shrouded in mist and clouds.

A panda's daily diet consists almost entirely of the leaves, stems and shoots of various bamboo species. Bamboo contains very little nutritional value so pandas must eat 12-38kg every day to meet their energy needs.

Scientists are not sure how long giant pandas live in the wild, but they are sure it is shorter than lifespans in zoos. They estimate that lifespan is about 15-20 years for wild pandas and about 30 years for those in human care. Chinese scientists have reported zoo pandas as old as 35.

Pandas are dependent on their mothers for the first few months of their lives and are fully weaned at 8 to 9 months. Most pandas leave their mothers when she becomes pregnant again, usually at about 18 months. Gestation takes from 95-160 days. Pandas normally give birth to single young. Twins seem to be born more frequently in captivity, when artificial insemination is used. The reproductive rate is about 1 cub every 2 years.

They are friendly and cheerful, Pandas have bundles of energy and warmth. They are confident and love trying out new things. Sociable and party-loving, they enjoy seeing friends and often put their friends' feelings ahead of their own.

While pandas are known for their clumsy and lazy behaviour often observed in captivity or during feeding, they are actually proficient tree climbers and swimmers. 

There are the only two panda species found the giant and the red.. Despite their similarity in name, the two are not scientifically connected. They share the same geographical area and similar food.

Haiti

 

I  have written about some countries in the Caribbean area but will do a few more, the Caribbean is comprised of 13 independent island nations: Antigua and Barbuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Cuba, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Trinidad and Tobago, These nations are recognized for their shared cultural heritage and location within the Caribbean region. There are 12 dependencies and 7 overseas territories as well various disputed territories.

This week we will look at Haiti which is a country located in the Caribbean. It shares the island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic, located to its east. While it was once a plantation colony of France based upon slavery of Africans, Haiti gained its independence in the year 1804.

The population is 11.77millon, Haiti has two official languages, Haitian Creole and French, everyone in Haiti speaks Haitian Creole. Some scholars estimate that approximately 90-95% of the population is monolingual, speaking Haitian Creole.

The Haitian Gourde (HTG) is the official currency of Haiti, a nation located on the western part of the island of Hispaniola in the Caribbean.

Haiti’s capital city is Port-au-Prince, it sits on the Gulf of Gonâve. The Musée du Panthéon National Haïtien honours the nation’s history and founding fathers. The Iron Market, a large 1891 covered bazaar, has produce and handicraft vendors. Nearby is the immense Notre Dame de l'Assomption Cathedral, reduced to a ruin by a 2010 earthquake. Colourful gingerbread-style houses from the turn of the 19th century dot the city.

The Haitian flag is a bicolour flag with two equal horizontal bands of blue (top) and red (bottom). In the centre, there is a white rectangle containing the Haitian coat of arms. The coat of arms includes a palm tree topped with the liberty cap, surrounded by cannons, flags, and other weaponry. The motto "L'Union Fait La Force" ("Unity Makes Strength") is displayed on a banner below the coat of arms. 

Week 31 of 2025

 

Had another good night slept for 8hrs and 55min, I didn’t awake at all, I had 2hrs and 54mins of deep sleep.

This morning it’s not as cold with a temp of 11C.

It warmed up to 17C, I have had zero motivation today as well as a headache I did manage to do a load of washing and hang it up to dry, I also vacuumed.

Jess now has a few security cameras focused on her car and front door.

BGL: 5.6

Steps: 4,6092=2.38Klm’s

Had another good night slept for 8hrs and 55min, I didn’t awake at all, I had 2hrs and 18mins of deep sleep and 18mins awake during the night, which would have been when I got up to pee.

I have had a good day managed to do bugga all, other then blogging and folding clothes as well as vacuuming.

When Sue arrived to get Sam, I gave her the chair yoga sheets I bought her so she can give that a try, I like doing those exercises. I also gave her the slides/scuffs (shoes) I bought her. She tried them on when she got home and said they fit, and she liked them.

Around 5pm I started to feel drained, and I am finding it difficult to concentrate.

BGL:5.5

Steps: 8,302=4.23klm’s

Had another good night slept for 8hrs and 23min, I didn’t awake at all, I had 2hrs and 18mins of deep sleep and 24mins awake during the night, which would have been when I got up to pee.

I have turned the bathroom heater on as I will have a shower after Tim leaves for work.

Tim came home between his morning and afternoon runs.

It has been an ok day, I have been busy day this morning changed the sheets, and cleaned the kitchen, running the dishwasher and unpacking it when done and of course I vacuumed twice and fed the birds twice.

Sam told me that at school her and her friend are learning about what is involved with the types of jobs/careers they want to have when they leave school. Sam is interested in becoming a social worker or a counsellor.

BGL:5.8

Steps: 9,547=4.85Klm’s

Had another good night slept for 8hrs and 32min, I didn’t awake at all, I had 2hrs and 29mins of deep sleep and I didn’t wake at all during the night.

I also woke to the sound of rain, and it is supposed to rain all day, also it is a cold 9C this morning.

Last night I noticed one of the security lights in the driveway was out, so I reported it online and this afternoon someone came to check it out.

Sue asked me if I would like to go to Coles with her tomorrow she wants to get a few things. I said I would love to do that.

It has rained on and off all day

BGL: 6.1

Steps:7,094=3.55Klm’s

Had another good night slept for 9hrs and 24min, I had 2hrs and 29mins of deep sleep and was awake for only 13 mins.

It’s raining this morning and it’s cold with the temp being 10C.

Sue and I went down to Coles to get a few things and when she brought me home, she left the keys in the car, and I must have pressed down on the lock when I was getting out and her keys ended up locked in the car, I felt awful. We ended up ringing a locksmith to get into the car and Jess paid the man as I didn’t know how to do a payment with PayID, Jess showed me so now I know.

When I went to meet Sam this afternoon it was so damn cold, when I got back inside the house, I felt awful, headache and congested.

BGL:6.1

Steps:7,910=4.03Klm’s

Slept well didn’t wake at all during the night got 9hrs and 29min, I had 2hrs and 56mins of deep sleep. It’s raining again and at 10C I need the heater on for a bit. I have a headache due to the cold.

Sam told me this morning she is going to Bailey’s after school, so I don’t have to go up and meet her.

I sent Tasha a text at 11.50am but she didn’t reply so at 12.50 and told her to forget it she has replied to that either.

I had two soft boiled eggs for lunch.

At 3pm Sam rang she wanted to make sure I remembered she was going to Bailey’s after school and that I wasn’t waiting for her in the rain. I had remembered and I wasn’t waiting in the rain.  

Jess came over to drop off her work shirts for me to wash and we had a nice chat.

This evening when Tim went to use the portable gas cooker, he uses it would start so he rang Jess and asked to borrow hers, but he realised what he was doing wrong, but she still came over and was here for an hour and a half just talking to her dad.

I am having an early night as I just feel done in.

Steps: 7,708=3.88km’s

Slept well didn’t wake at all during the night got a good 10hrs sleep and didn’t wake at all, although the watch says I was awake for 33 minutes.

It is raining again and at 12C I need the heater on.

It has rained all day, this arvo there was thunder, no lightning just thunder and rain.

I turned the heater to face the clothes hoists to help dry the clothes while keeping the room warm.

I have to make an effort to lose weight.

Steps:7,120=3.59Klm’s

BGL: 6.3

 

National Anthem of Uzbekistan

 

Time to look at the national anthem of Uzbekistan, the anthem was officially adopted on 10 December 1991 by the Constitution of Uzbekistan, after gaining independence from the Soviet Union.  It uses the same melody as the anthem of the Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic, composed by Mutal Burhonov in 1947, but with new lyrics written by Abdulla Oripov. The adoption of the anthem signifies Uzbekistan's independence and its commitment to its rich history and traditions.

During the Soviet era, Uzbekistan, then known as the Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic, had its own anthem with lyrics by Timur Fattah and Turab Tula, and music by Mutal Burkhanov. 

Following Uzbekistan's declaration of independence in 1991, the Soviet-era anthem was replaced with the new anthem. 

The English translation of the Uzbekistan National Anthem, titled "Serquyosh, hur oʻlkam" (Sunny, Free Land), celebrates Uzbekistan's independence, prosperity, and the strength of its people. It highlights the nation's rich valleys, the courage of its ancestors, and the bright future led by its youth. The anthem also emphasizes the nation's commitment to knowledge, creativity, and peace. 

"My sunny, free land, happiness and salvation to your people, you yourself a companion to friends, Oh! Loving one!"
This verse emphasizes the nation's positive qualities and its welcoming nature towards friends. 

Verse 2:

"Flourish, Oh! Creator of eternal knowledge and science, May your fame for ever shine bright!"
This part focuses on the importance of knowledge, science, and the lasting legacy of Uzbekistan. 

Chorus:

"These golden valleys – my dear Uzbekistan, Our forefathers' manly spirits your companion! Strength of great people in turbulent times, Made this land the world's joy!"
The chorus celebrates the beauty of Uzbekistan's valleys, the courage of its ancestors, and the strength of its people. 

Verse 3:

"Oh! Generous Uzbek, your faith will not fade, Free, young generations are your mighty wings! The torch of independence, guardians of peace, Oh! Worthy motherland, flourish and prosper eternally!"
This verse speaks to the unwavering faith of the Uzbek people, the promise of their youth, and the nation's role as a protector of peace. 

The post with links to other posts and a photo as well

 

My post with links to other posts.

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/07/tuesdays-4-day-early.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/07/youre-my-sister-poem.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/07/last-hodgepoge-for-july.htmlcc

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/07/describing-me.html

                                                                      The Ugly Brooch

Some of you may recall that  I mentioned in my weekly diary post that I wasn't able to find what mum called the ugly brooch, well I found it and above is a picture  of it

The Nullarbor

This week we are looking at the area of Australia called The Nullarbor Plain, which means "no trees" in Latin, is a vast, arid region in southern Australia with a rich history, both for Indigenous Australians and Europeans. 

Historically, it was seasonally occupied by the Mirning and Yinyila Indigenous peoples, who knew it as Oondiri, meaning "waterless".

Europeans first charted the coast in the 17th century, but the interior remained largely unexplored until Edward Eyre’s epic crossing in 1841. The Nullarbor has since been a site of pastoralism, railway construction, and even nuclear testing, shaping its modern landscape and infrastructure.  They have a deep and continuing connection to the Nullarbor. 

The name "Nullarbor" was coined by surveyor Edmund Delissern in1865.  Pastoralists established stations along the telegraph and railway lines, and small settlements developed around these. 

The Nullarbor was used for nuclear testing in the 1950s, leading to the displacement of Indigenous populations.  The Trans-Australian Railway   completed in 1917, facilitated travel and trade across the Nullarbor. 

The Eyre Highway. A road across the Nullarbor, was completed in 1976, connecting South Australia and Western Australia. The highway is a 1,664-kilometre, it is signed as National Highways 1 and A1, it forms part of Highway 1 and the Australian National Highway network linking Perth and Adelaide.

Driving directly across the Nullarbor Plain (from Norseman to Ceduna) takes approximately 12.5 hours of non-stop driving. However, most travellers allocate 2-3 days for the journey to allow for stops at attractions, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the scenery. 

When driving across the Nullarbor people need to beware of trucks as there are triple-decker road trains which have brutal slipstreams, so slow down or pull over to let them pass. Also at night the road. turns into a marsupial rave party at night, from camels, kangaroos, dingoes and occasionally wombats. With no phone service, no other travellers, and emergency services hours away, getting into an accident could leave you stranded without help.

When camping Nullarbor, keep an eye out for scorpions, bird-eating spiders, eastern brown snakes, and death adders. Avoid setting up camp near bodies of water, high vegetation, rocks, fallen logs, or under trees. Also, remind curious kiddos that sticking hands in holes in the ground, under rocks, logs, or trees could disturb a creepy crawly!

If you run into trouble, do not leave your vehicle to search for help. Drones, planes, foot searches, and car trackers will see a vehicle and find you.

The area is known for its vast cave systems, some of which contain fossils and provide insights into the region's past climate. 

The Nullarbor continues to be a place of both natural beauty and human activity, with tourism and transport playing a significant role. 

  

Andean or Spectacled Bear

 

This week we are looking at the Andean Bear also known as the Spectacled Bear, this is a species of bear native to the Andes Mountains in northern and western South America. It is the only living species of bear native to South America, and the last remaining short-faced bear.

The bears are an endangered species, listed as Vulnerable, and it is illegal to kill them. The Andean bear is the last remaining short-faced bear spectacled bears are the only surviving species of bear native to South America, and the only surviving member of the subfamily Tremarctinae.

They are technically the largest land carnivore on that continent, although as little as 5% of its diet is composed of meat. South America’s largest obligate carnivore is the jaguar. Among South America’s extant, native land animals, only the Baird’s and South American Tapirs are heavier than this species. They are a mid-sized species of bear.

Overall, its fur is blackish in colour, though bears may vary from jet black to dark brown and to even a reddish hue. The species typically has distinctive, beige-coloured marking across its face and upper chest, though not all Spectacled bears have “spectacle” markings. The pattern and extent of pale markings are slightly different on each individual bear and bears can be readily distinguished by this.

They are relatively small compared to other bear species. 

Males typically weigh between 220-440 pounds and are 5.5 to 6.5 feet long, while females weigh between 80-180 pounds and are slightly smaller. They stand 2 to 3 feet tall at the shoulder. 

They have relatively large heads compared to their body size, as well as powerful claws and paws that help them climb trees and build nests.  Despite their size, they are known for their adaptability to different environments within the Andes, from cloud forests to coastal deserts. 

They inhabit mountainous regions of South America, primarily the Andes Mountains, from Venezuela to Bolivia. They are found in a variety of habitats including rainforests, cloud forests, grasslands, and even scrublands. They are known to build platform nests in trees for eating and sleeping and are generally active year-round.

They feed on fruits and bromeliads being there favored foods, but also eat berries, grasses, bulbs, cactus flowers and small animals such as rodents, rabbits and birds. Near settlements, bears sometimes raid cornfields. Andean bears climb trees and forage on the ground.

They have a lifespan of around 20yrs in the wild but up to about 38yrs under human care they have a gestation of between 160 to 255 days and can have between 1 and 4 cubs they are considered mature between 4 and 7 years.

They are the only bears are the only known to eat bromeliads. Has rings of white or light fur around its eyes. The rest of the bear's fur is black or dark brown.

Andean bears, also known as spectacled bears, are generally considered one of the least aggressive bear species towards humans. While they are capable of defending themselves if threatened, they typically avoid encounters with people and are known for their shy and elusive nature. Attacks on humans are rare, with only one confirmed human death attributed to a spectacled bear. They can run up to 30 mph.

 

 

 

 

Uzbekistan's National Things

 

This week we will wrap up stuff about Uzbekistan with some information about their national things like their national animal which is the Turkestan sand which is a nocturnal animal with long hair between its toes, which helps protect them from the hot desert sand. It is known for its resilience and ability to adapt to the challenging desert environment. 

Their national bird is the mythical Humo (or Khumo) bird. It is featured on the national emblem and symbolizes happiness, peace, and freedom. 

Uzbekistan does not have an officially declared national flower. While the tulip is widely recognized as a national symbol and represents beauty, love, and innocence in Uzbek culture, and is depicted on various national emblems, it has not been officially designated as the national flower. The cotton plant, though not a flower, is also a prominent symbol of Uzbekistan, featured on the coat of arms and as a major national crop. 

Their national dish is plov (also spelled osh or palov), a flavorful rice pilaf. It's a cornerstone of Uzbek culture and cuisine, often served at celebrations and large gatherings, and even recognized by UNESCO. 

The national drink of Uzbekistan is Tea, especially Green Tea. Due the Russian domination over centuries, Vodka is also popular here. The Uzbekistan Drinks are a must try on your Uzbekistan Tours. Tea is normally served normally everywhere including home, office, cafes, tiny stores too.

The national sport of Uzbekistan is Kurash, a traditional form of wrestling. It's one of the most ancient types of wrestling and is considered a popular amusement in Uzbekistan, often featured during holidays. 

Kurash is more than just a sport; it's deeply rooted in Uzbek culture and history. It's a martial art that emphasizes strength, dexterity, and mutual respect between opponents. The rules are relatively simple, with prohibitions against painful holds, choking techniques, and attacks below the waist.

However, football is the most popular sport in Uzbekistan. It is widely played and followed, particularly among young athletes, with increasing participation in grassroots programs and professional academies. The Uzbekistan Professional Football League is a key player in the region, and the national team is a strong competitor in Asian football.  There is also a women’s national football league.

 

 

                                             

Week 30 of 2025

 

I had a good night slept straight threw, didn’t wake at all had 8hrs and 52mins sleep. 

We have decided we need a new vacuum cleaner as the one we have isn’t picking up stuff very well, it does a half ass job, so we may go out to Target and get a new one today. We also bought a new toasted sandwich maker.

This morning was cold, but the day warmed up, Tim even changed into shorts and a tee shirt.

We picked up the photos that were printed and Tim has hung them on the wall, but he wants one of them in a larger size which I have ordered for him.

This afternoon I had a few scotches and cokes, didn’t get drunk just a little tipsy.

BGL: 5.6

Steps: 9,666=4.90Klm’s

First day of term 3.

I had a good night slept straight threw again, had 8hrs and 2mins sleep, although the watch says I was awake for 20mins.

Sue and I drove Sam to Tafe then I went to have my mamogram I was an hour early, but I was taken in quick.

After that we called in at a local cake shop to get a cream bun each, then we stopped at the post office so Sue could go in and get me stamps, the cost of stamps has gone up again it is now $1.70 to send a local letter.

The we stopped at the plaza so I could drop a script into the chemist.

Then home, I haven’t felt like doing much for the rest of the day.

BGL:5.7

Steps:7.727=3.92Klm’s

Another good night slept for 9hrs and 27min, didn’t wake at all, this morning it is 12C but doesn’t feel that bad at the moment.

Tim has work today which is good and Sam has school, and I have nothing.

I cleaned behind the toaster oven and behind the toilet, well as vacuuming and with Sue’s help I changed the cover on Tim’s chair. I tried the new toasted sandwich maker it is ok but for standard sandwiches I prefer the other one, the new one will be good when I have toasted spaghetti sandwiches.

I rode the scooter up to meet Sam just didn’t feel like walking.

BGL:5.5

Steps:6,101=3.08Klm’s

Another good night slept for 8hrs and 27min, didn’t wake at all, this morning it is 12C.

Tim has work again today, I am waiting for him to leave before I have a shower. I turned the bathroom heater on when I got up so the room will be warm when I go in for the shower.

Tim turned the heater off, so the bathroom was cold I was somewhat annoyed.

Had the pharmacist come to go over my medications, all is good he will follow up in a couple of months’ time.

Jessica discovered someone had written Fuck on her car in chalk, Tasha caught it on her security camera it was one of the neighbour’s kids.

BGL:5.4

Steps:12,083=6.13Klm’s

Another good night slept for 9hrs and 10min, didn’t wake at all, this morning it is 7C.

Tim has work again today, but not till this arvo.

Tim and Jess went to bunnings to get extra security cameras for her house.

I went shopping with Sue which was great doing this makes me feel like I am living a normal life, like I did before Covid. I can never thank Sue enough for making me feel somewhat normal again.

The afternoon was warm.

BGL: 5.5

Steps: 8,081=4.11Klm’s

Another good night slept for 9hrs and 17min, didn’t wake at all, this morning it is 1C.

Tim will be up and off to work in an hour or so.

By 10am it had started to warm up and by midday it was 17C.

I emptied the recycle boxes into the recycle bin outside and managed to fill the bird bath with water as well as toss out bread and bird seed for them.

I walked up to meet Sam and Jess came with me she wanted to show me a couple of clips on her phone, funny stuff it also, made me laugh. So, we were both there when Sam arrived.

BGL:5.2

Steps:8,157=4.14Klm’s

Had another good night slept for 8hrs and 59min, I was awake for only 12mis, this morning it’s not as cold with a temp of 10C

Tim will be up at 6.30am as he is working all day. Jess is also working today.

It started out wet but by 10am it had fine up, a parcel arrived from Temu today more gifts and a few things for me as well.

Sam and Bailey came over to make food, Bailey gave me a cupcake which was nice.

Tim home at 6.15pm.

BGL:5.3

Steps:9,192=4.66Klm’s

 

 

Caturday with Luca

 

Hello everyone, remember me I’m Luca the sleek, handsome black cat, it is my turn here on Nana’s blog I am very photogenic am I not.

Here are a couple of photos of me in bags, I like climbing into bags, maybe one day mum won’t notice and take me shopping with her if I hide in a shopping bag like I am in these photos.

A post with links to other posts

 

My post with links to other posts.

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/07/sunday-stealing-on-tuesday.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/07/tuesdays-four.html

http://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/07/time-for-hodgepodge.html

 

Sloth Bears

Time to learn about another bear, this week we have the sloth bear, also known as the Indian bear, is a myrmecophagous bear species native to the Indian subcontinent. It feeds on fruits, ants and termites. It is listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, mainly because of habitat loss and degradation. It is the only species in the genus Melursus.

Sloth bears have shaggy, dusty-black coats; pale, short-haired muzzles; and long, curved claws which they use to excavate termites and ants. A cream-colored “V” or “Y” shape usually marks their chests. Their shaggy fur does not have an undercoat, so it keeps them relatively cool in their native, warm climate and protects them from tropical insects. Sloth bears' nostrils can close completely, protecting the animals from dust or insects when raiding termite nests or beehives. They have a keen sense of smell, as well as near-sight similar to that of humans.

Adult sloth bears are missing their top two front teeth (incisors), which enables them to suck up termites and other insects with ease. Due to their diet of insects and fruit, their premolars and molars are smaller than those of other bears, but they have large canines to use for defence. It is thought that their feet are turned inward to increase digging efficiency.

They grow 5 to 6 feet (1.5 to 2 meters) long, stand 2 to 3 feet (0.5 to 1 meters) high at the shoulder, and weigh, on average, 200 to 300 pounds (90 to 140 kilograms).

They live in a variety of dry and moist forests and in some tall grasslands, where boulders, scattered shrubs and trees provide shelter. Their range includes India, Sri Lanka and southern Nepal.

They are noisy, busy animals. They grunt and snort as they pull down branches to get fruit, dig for termites and ants, or snuffle under debris for grubs and beetles.

If threatened, they will stand on two legs, brandishing their clawed forepaws as weapons. Their large canines are used for defence against tigers. Other potential predators include jackals, wild dogs, wolves, leopards and other Asian bear species.

They are considered myrmecophagous. They feed on termites, ants, also when trees are in fruit, usually during the monsoon season, sloth bears dine on mango, fig, ebony and other fruits, as well as on flowers.

Termites, dug out of their cement-hard nest mounds, and some ants are year-round staples. During non-fruiting season, insects constitute 95 percent of a sloth bear's diet. Sloth bears climb trees and knock down honeycombs, later collecting the honey from the forest floor. Beetles, grubs and other insects round out their diet. During food shortages, sloth bears will eat carrion. They also sometimes raid farm crops.

These bears adapt their sleep-wake cycle to their environment and may be on a nocturnal, diurnal or crepuscular schedule depending on how many other bears, people or predators share their habitat. In protected areas, for example, sloth bears may be more active during the day. Sloth bears are typically active for about eight to 14 hours each day, and they do not hibernate. At the Zoo, they tend to keep a crepuscular schedule, meaning they are active in both the morning and evening but sleep midday and overnight.

Theys are considered solitary, although they are occasionally seen in groups when resources are plentiful.

They only come together during breeding season. The female uses delayed implantation to decide the best time for her pregnancy and birthing. The female will then remain in a den for 6-7 months until she gives birth. The most common number of cubs is 2. After the mother and cubs leave the den, the cubs will ride on the mother’s back and cling to her long fur. No other bear species does this. As they grow, the cubs will begin to walk on the ground. The female nurses the cubs for one year and they will stay with mom for up to 2.5 years.

While not typically aggressive towards humans, can exhibit defensive aggression when surprised or feeling threatened, leading to attacks. These attacks are usually a result of the bear's defence mechanism and not predatory behaviour. Sloth bears are often involved in human-wildlife conflict due to habitat encroachment and encounters in agricultural areas.

 

Uzbekistan

 

Here we are at another Monday, I wasn’t sure I would do a post today due to feeling tired and worn out and not having a lot of motivation but here I am writing about the country of Uzbekistan, not a country I have heard of but I do like doing posts about places and other stuff I know little or nothing about.  This country has a population of around 36 million.

Uzbekistan is a Central Asian nation and former Soviet republic. It's known for its mosques, mausoleums and other sites linked to the Silk Road, the ancient trade route between China and the Mediterranean. Samarkand, a major city on the route, contains a landmark of Islamic architecture: the Registan, a plaza bordered by 3 ornate, mosaic-covered religious schools dating to the 15th and 17th centuries

The capital city is Tashkent, it’s known for its many museums and its mix of modern and Soviet-era architecture. The Amir Timur Museum houses manuscripts, weapons and other relics from the Timurid dynasty. Nearby, the huge State Museum of History of Uzbekistan has centuries-old Buddhist artifacts. The city’s skyline is distinguished by Tashkent Tower, which offers city views from its observation deck.

The official currency is the Sum, the country replaced the ruble with the sum at par in on 16 July 1994. No subdivisions of this sum were initially issued and only banknotes were produced, in denominations of 1, 3, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 5,000, and 10,000 sum. Further series, however, have introduced coins and a subunit, the tiyin. Because it was meant to be a transitional currency, the design was rather simplistic.

The flag of Uzbekistan is a horizontal triband with three equal bands of blue, white, and green, separated by two thin red stripes. In the upper left canton (hoist side), there's a white crescent moon and twelve white stars. The blue band represents the sky and water and is also associated with the Turkic peoples. The white represents peace and purity. The green symbolizes nature and new life. The red stripes are a symbol of the power of life. The crescent moon is a traditional Uzbek symbol, and the twelve stars represent the twelve months of the Islamic calendar and the constellations. 

Islam is the predominant religion, with the vast majority of the population identifying as Muslim. While Islam is dominant, there are also other officially recognized faiths, and the country has a diverse religious landscape.

Other faiths are also present, including Russian Orthodox Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism, there are also significant populations of Baha'is, Zoroastrians, and Roman Catholics. 

Uzbekistan's government acknowledges religious freedom, but it also maintains a system of state control over religious organizations, including registration requirements and oversight of religious literature. The Muslim Board of Uzbekistan (MBU) plays a significant role in managing Islamic affairs, and it works within a framework established by the government. 

Uzbek is a Karluk Turkic language spoken by Uzbeks. It is the official and national language of Uzbekistan and formally succeeded Chagatai, an earlier Karluk language endonymically called Türki or Türkçe, as the literary language of Uzbekistan in the 1920s.  However, many other native languages are spoken in the country. These include several other Turkic languages, Persian and Russian.

Week 29 of 2025

 

I slept well had a good 9hrs &24 Mins and I didn’t wake at all I even had 2hrs of deep sleep.

At around 9.am I started to feel really cold and super tired but after a couple of hours I was feeling better.

Tim cooked crumbed steak and veggies for lunch, it was nice although I did have trouble swallowing twice and Tim told me to stop putting so much food in my mouth.

Tim spent most of the day outside working on the back yard and his veggie garden.

BGL:6.1

Steps:5,521=2.79Klm’s

I slept well had a good 9hrs & 16 Mins and I didn’t wake at all I even had 2hrs 54mins of deep sleep.

Tim and I went to see our GP this morning both of us had no issues with our blood test results.

I had an appointment with my neurologist it was a video appointment she has made no changes to my medication and since the dyskinesia is often and doesn’t last generally for too long, she is not worried about it but would like me to keep a record of when it happens. My next appointment is in January that one will be a face-to-face appointment.

BGL: 6.5

Steps: 3,365=1.69Klm’s

I slept all night again, getting 9hrs and 11mins of sleep.

It is a cold day been raining on and off all day.

Blain came to see me he said he and his girlfriend have moved into a hotel in Adamstown as they don’t feel like they can live with Tasha anymore, why that is I don’t know.

I went and checked the letter box I had three letters, there was one for Jess and one for Tasha.

Tim cooked chicken kiev and chips for tea and it was nice, I liked it and so did Tim.

BGL: 5.4

Steps: 6,893=3.48Klm’s

I slept all night again, getting 9hrs and 19mins of sleep and was awake for 14mins.

It is currently 4C here so pretty cold, should reach a top of 16C.

Tim is working he will leave here around 10.15am and should be home by 6.30pm.

The day did warm up somewhat and I managed to get off my ass and vacuum and get the clothes off the line and folded and put away.

Sue sent me a text about going to see our sister Jeannie tomorrow, I said that will be fine with me, it is Jeannie’s birthday on Saturday.

BGL: 5.1

Steps: 5,522

I slept all night again, getting 10hrs and 39mins of sleep and was awake for 36mins.

It is currently 2C here so pretty cold, should reach a top of 17C.

Noticed Jess car gone this morning found a text from her she is working.

Saw on FB this morning that my niece Temika is having surgery today, what 6,379the hell no one told me she was having surgery. Turns out Sue didn’t know either and Jeannie only found out a week ago when she watched Sandy’s kids.

Sue and I went to see Jeannie and give her birthday presents from me and Sue it was nice seeing her.

It seems Temika was born with something wrong with her arm and need surgery to repair it, it is a big opp they have to break the arm to rest it right, she will have pins and plates in it. I hope it all goes well.

BGL: 5.4

Steps: 6,379= 3.27klm’s

I slept all night again, getting 8hrs and 39mins of sleep and didn’t wake at all.

It’s not as cold this morning with the temp being 7C.

Jess asked if she sent over the stuff would I do a casserole for her lunch. I said yes and have already put it on to cook, I do it in the slow cooker.

Jess & Sam came down and had lunch here that was nice.

This afternoon I started getting stabbing pains in the top of my head which has turned into a headache across my forehead and behind my eyes.

BGL: 5.4

Steps:5,979=3.05Klm’s

JEANNIE’S BIRTHDAY SHE IS 57 TODAY

I slept all night again, getting 8hrs and 56mins of sleep and didn’t wake at all.

It’s a cold morning again temp is 8C.

Tim is working this afternoon and bight he thinks he will be home around 1am.

Sam came over around 7.45pm to use my toilet and then she stayed awhile, and we had a chat about her day out in Sydney with Bailey. She said she had a good day, no issues with transport or anything else.

After Sam left, I went to bed.

BGL 5.4

Steps: 5,423 = 2.76 Klm’s