Caturday with Luca

Good morning, all here we are at another Saturday Caturday with the handsome Luca, to is just a shot clip of me and my house mate Molly sitting and looking towards the door, we were not up to anything, but mum thought differently. This may be because we are usually up to something but at this time we were not, or maybe I am just not going to confess anything here.

The post with Links to other posts

 

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

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/01/getting-to-know-me_24.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/01/sunday-stealing_26.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/01/hodgepodge-number-4.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/01/tuesdays-4-on-wednesday.html

 

 

 

Women's Clothing through time

 

When I wrote about identity it made me think about how long skirts has been considered women’s clothing.

Skirts are far older than the idea of “women’s clothing.”
According to historical sources, skirts were originally worn by both men and women in the ancient world.

There is archaeological and historical evidence showing that in Ancient Egypt men wore the shendyt, a wrapped linen skirt and women wore long pleated skirts.

In Mesopotamia, both genders wore wool or sheepskin skirts and in Greece & Rome, draped garments such as togas, chitons, stolas were skirt‑like for both sexes.

So, at this stage, skirts were not gendered. They were simply practical garments.

It was in the Middle Ages that things started to change, in medieval Europe men increasingly adopted trousers or hose. While women continued wearing long, flowing skirts.

This is the period when skirts began to be seen as primarily feminine clothing.

This shift was gradual and tied to climate, horseback riding, and cultural norms. It was from the 15th century that women’s skirts became wider, structured, and decorative think farthingales, hoop skirts and bustles. While men’s fashion moved firmly toward pants.

Birthday Cards for Tim

 

Turning 65 a milestone birthday

 

I mentioned recently to my daughters that their dad is turning 65 and that’s a milestone age and they wanted to know why it was. So, if anyone reading this wonders the same thing here is the answer.

The age of 65 is widely recognised as a milestone as it marks a cluster of cultural, financial, and institutional transitions that many societies treat as a major life threshold.

Many countries treat 65 as the traditional age of retirement, a moment associated with stepping into the so‑called “golden years.” Even thou the retirement age has changed in many countries; Tim can’t retire till he is 67. It was during the 19th‑century pension systems became a thing and the age was set at 65.

In the United States it marks eligibility for their Medicare, making it a key health‑care transition point.

Turning 65 is also when people commonly do things like review their retirement plans, update wills, and reassess health and lifestyle priorities. Not because of biology, but because of history, policy, and cultural meaning.

It’s a time when society pauses with you and says: you’ve reached a significant chapter, in your life.

 

Week 4 of 2026

 

I slept well, managed 7hrs of sleep, woke at 4.50am at 5.30 after Tim left for work I had a shower and shave before getting breakfast. My BGL was 6.4 the temp was 19c or 66f and it is raining.

It is now midday and it’s still raining the temp is 20c of 68f. Tim got home around 11.30am.

It stopped raining around 2pm so around 4pm Tim was able to go out the back and do whatever.

Steps:6,521 = 3.3k’s or 1.9miles

Had a good 7hrs sleep with some really strange dreams that mum and dad were part of mum was with me shopping and dad was at the doctors with a bleeding hand.

It is another wet day, and we are off to my appointment with Dr Babu my neurologist in Sydney a 2hr drive from here.

My appointment went well; she has increased the Sifrol to double it is now and has degreased the Madopar I take for tablets a day two of them have been degreased in strength to see if that helps with the dyskinesia.

We arrived home around 3pm

Steps: 6,663 = 3.3k’s or 2 miles

I am up way earlier then I would like to be but from 2.30am I was restless and unable to find a comfortable position to lay in so at 4.20am I got up and started my day. I may need a nap during the day we will see.

The temp this morning was 17c or 62.6f so somewhat nippy. My BGL was 6.6 so a bit high.

By 5am I had cleaned the kitchen, emptied the dishwasher, swept the kitchen floor and vacuumed the lounge and hallway, emptied the bins and had a wash and moisturised my body and of course got dressed for the day.

I tossed then towels into wash but after a while the machine made a noise and when I went to check the error code it was unable to drain. When Tim got up, he spent a couple of hours checking the drainage hose which was ok not blocked now when he gets home from work, he is going to take the pump filter out and check it.

I have asked Tasha to take the towels to hers and wash them for me she still hasn’t done it at 2pm. So, I asked Jess and Sam came down and took them back to her house to wash them for me.

Tim arrived home around 5pm and hour later than expected.

Steps: 5,446 = 2.7k’s or 1.6 miles

Another early start I got up at 4.20am due to a bad headache and feeling unwell. I had a good 8hrs of sleep.

At 5am my BGL was 6.5 and the temp a cool 17c or 62f, I have taken my morning meds and hopefully the headache will ease soon, I am having my morning egg flip which is helping with the unwell feeling.

I am going with Sue while she gets and Xray on her knee and then we will go to the post office as I need stamps and want to see about the concession stamps now that I am on a pension again.

Got the stamps no problem, went to Coles and then Sue went to pick up the scripts while I waited on a seat outside Coles, only to have Sue ring and say there was a problem she was being told that I owed $121 instead of $15. I went down brought up the app where it showed I’d paid, they then said it was ok all sorted.

Tasha was supposed to help go to bed only to be helping damn Benny again.

Steps: 6,153 = 3.11k’s or 1.9 miles

Had a good night sleep getting over 10hrs of sleep, I was up at 4.30am and had a shower and cleaned the kitchen before my 5am alarm went off.

I am going shopping with Sue and looking forward to it as per usual.

It is going to be another hot day. I am feeling so tired by midday.

Tim cooked lunch crumb chicken with baked spuds and carrots and peas, with cheesecake for dessert.

This afternoon Jess came over to get something, and Tim asked her if she was talking to him and she said no and left. This was the start of an argument between me and Tim as he acted like he didn’t understand why she would be like that. I told him she is supporting her child and doesn’t like the way he is treating Sam. This went on for 2hrs, at one point I said he was acting like he didn’t trust me and he said he didn’t, that hurt when I asked why he avoided the question and starter going on about Sam is Leo and Leo is a boy.

So, all in all a distressing afternoon.

Steps:8,026 = 4k’s or 2.2 miles

I had a rough night; I slept well till 1.30am after that I had trouble settling tossing and turning finding it difficult to lay on my left side due to the pain in my shoulder. I managed to get some sleep laying on my back but after a while that also started to hurt. I ended up coming out to the lounge room and sleeping for a bit in my armchair. All in all, I got around 6hrs of sleep.

This morning my BGL was 7.1 and it was 19c or 66f.

I was surprised to see Sue turn up she just came to check on me.

Steps: 7,750 = 3.9k’s or 2.2 miles

I slept well last night getting 7hrs of sleep my BGL was 5.9 the temp this morning is 17c or 62f.

This morning Tim and I went to Aldi as they had advertised office chairs for $60 but of course, they had none in stock. So, I spent some time looking online for one but then my internet started playing up so I got the shits and packed it in.

After going to Aldi Tim wanted to go to his favourite butcher which we did, and he got the meat he wanted.

It has been another hot day with a temp of 30c or 86f in my house without the air con going.

Around 6pm Jessica came down and showed me some clips she found funny and reminded her of me, it was funny.

It was then I was informed that her and Tim had a long talk and things are much better between them.

Tasha arrived at 7.15pm to help me get ready for bed.

Steps: 6,981 = 3.4k’s or 2 miles

 

 

Caturday with Archie

Well, hello everyone, here is a clip of me playing with Mick, now so you all know Mick is or was 6' 6" tall, yeah, he is dead passed away, he would be 55 on Monday which is Australia Day.

Mick was my human’s husband, and he likes to hang around and watch over her, even though I am here now and I look after her, but that’s ok because he plays with me a lot and I like him.

The man in the hat and the woman in red are my human's parents they also hang around here 

Beautiful, courageous woman

 

This is to a beautiful, courageous and outstanding woman, her name well it could be anything as we all will know at least one such woman.

Look in the mirror and see what I see, a talented uplifting and magnificent woman who can do anything and everything she wants, she just needs to believe in herself.

If she believes in her heart that she has the power to grab hold of something she can mold into things she dreams about.

She needs to trust in her soul that she is capable of doing all that needs to be done.

This woman needs to remember that she is incredible in every way, and she needs to see what others see, a survivor.

She maybe you.

This was inspired by a poem by Lamisha Serf-Walls

The Post with Links to other Posts

 

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

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/01/getting-to-know-me_18.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/01/share-your-world-3.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/01/a-bit-of-hodgepodge.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/01/tuesdays-4_22.html

 

Myopia aka Short Sighted

 

This week we are taking a look a short sighted which has the medical name “myopia, a short-sighted person may see things close to them very clearly, but other things may be blurry.

There are two main reasons for this one is an eyeball that is too long, the other is a lens that is too thick, the longer the eyeball or the thicker the lens, the more short sighted some will be.

Light rays are bent by the cornea and the lens, these should focus them so that an image forms on the retina, however, if someone is short sighted the light rays are focus in front of the retina. This causes the image to be blurry.

Being short sighted is generally picked up in childhood and can beia corrected with glasses or contact lenses, by doing so the light rays are bent outwards by a concave lens before they reach the eye.

Laser treatment is very popular and highly successful; this involves using a laser beam to alter the curve of the front of the cornea to make the image focus on the retina.

 

 

Komodo Dragon

 

Ok I mentioned the Komodo dragon last week, so this week I write a bit more about them.

Their venom lowers blood pressure, prevents clotting, and induces shock.

They rely on camouflage and patience, then strike with serrated teeth and powerful neck muscles. They dominate their ecosystems, feeding on deer, pigs, carrion, and even other dragons. Also, they can run quickly in short bursts and walk up to 7 miles a day.

Komodo dragons reproduce sexually, but females can also reproduce asexually through parthenogenesis — producing sons without a male present. It’s one of the most fascinating reproductive quirks in the reptile world. Their eggs incubate for 7–8 months, the hatchlings live in trees to avoid being eaten by adults, yeah you read that right they are cannibalistic. It takes 8–9 years for them to mature and can live up to 30 years.

Komodo dragons are listed as Endangered due to habitat loss and climate change pressures.

 

Cowra Japanese garden and cultural centre

 

Ok this week I am looking at bit of the history of the Japanese Gardens in Cowra, the gardens are a symbol of peace, reconciliation, and cultural exchange.

They stand as a testament to the power of reconciliation, cross-cultural friendship, and the enduring legacy of history. Renowned as the largest Japanese garden in the Southern Hemisphere, it draws visitors from across Australia and the world who come to admire its serene landscapes and to learn about the unique historical events that inspired its creation.

Cowra’s relationship with Japan is rooted in the tumultuous events of World War II. In August 1944, Cowra became the site of the infamous Cowra Breakout, when over 1,000 Japanese prisoners of war attempted to escape from the local POW camp. The breakout resulted in the deaths of 231 Japanese soldiers and four Australian soldiers. Despite the tragedy, this event laid the foundation for an unexpected post-war bond between Cowra and Japan.

After the war, the town of Cowra demonstrated remarkable compassion and respect for the fallen Japanese soldiers, ensuring that they were buried with dignity in a dedicated section of the Cowra War Cemetery. This act of humanity did not go unnoticed by the Japanese government and people, and it forged a spirit of reconciliation that would flourish in the decades to come.

As the friendship between Cowra and Japan deepened, the idea of establishing a Japanese garden took root in the 1970s. The vision was to create a living symbol of peace and understanding, celebrating the shared history and growing partnership between the two communities.

Construction commenced in 1977. The project was a collaborative effort, supported by local volunteers, the New South Wales government, and generous contributions from Japanese individuals and organisations. The first stage of the garden was officially opened in 1979, followed by further expansions over the next decade. The garden was completed in 1986 and has since remained a centrepiece for Cowra’s cultural and community life.

Japanese landscape architect Ken Nakajima was commissioned to design the garden. Drawing inspiration from the Edo period, Nakajima conceptualised a “kaiyū-shiki” (strolling garden) that would reflect the natural landscapes of Japan, including mountains, waterfalls, streams, and traditional plantings.

The Cowra Japanese Garden covers approximately five hectares and is designed to be enjoyed in all seasons. Its features include a large lake, waterfalls, streams, ornamental bridges, and teahouses. The garden also hosts annual cultural events, such as the Sakura Matsuri (Cherry Blossom Festival), and provides educational programs that promote understanding of Japanese culture and horticulture.

Beyond its beauty, the garden is a living memorial to the past and a celebration of peace. It symbolises the enduring friendship between Cowra and Japan and continues to inspire visitors to reflect on the importance of reconciliation and cultural exchange.

The history of the Japanese Gardens in Cowra is a remarkable story of healing and hope. From the ashes of wartime tragedy grew a unique partnership, culminating in a garden that stands as a symbol of peace, respect, and international friendship.

The gardens are still very popular attacking many tourist and is a good reminder of the strength of understanding and goodwill.

 

Week 3 of 2026

 

I slept well till 3am, after that I had a blocked nose and pain my left shoulder and right hip and just couldn’t settle, so I got up at 4.45am.

It is much cooler today only 20c at 5am with a top temp of only 24c, I am having a rough day.

I tried to have a nap but couldn't settle so after half an hour of trying I gave up, even though I didn’t fall asleep after spending that time laying with my eyes closed, I did feel a bit more with it when I got up.

Tim has spent a good part of the day working on the stand for the portable air con. The first one he did wasn’t right the front needs to be a tad higher than the back in order for it to drain correctly.

I think I will be having an early night.

Steps:9,207 = 4.6k’s or 2.9miles

Had a decent enough sleep, woke a couple of times but all in all managed around 8hrs of sleep. This morning it is cool and 18c or 64f we are looking at a top temp of only 23c or 73.4f

My BGL was 6.5 this morning. I have a doctor’s appointment at 11.20 this morning.

Sue took me to my doctor’s appointment; it was a waste of time, as I was right and I couldn’t get my care plan done yet not till next month.

It has rained on and off all day.

Tim home at 3pm.

Steps: 7,062 = 4.6k’s or 2.1miles

Had a good night got 9hrs and 37 mins of sleep, it is 20c or 68f and we are expecting a top temp of 25c or 77f, my BGL was 6.3

Tim has work but will be home for a couple of hours instead of sitting around in a hot bus waiting.

Had my physio appointment, it went well and it turned out to be my last appointment as the physio was very pleased with my progress. She also said it was a pleasure to see one who has some common sense.

It has been a hot day got up to 27c of 80.6f.

Steps: 7,336 = 3.7k’s or 2.2 miles

Had a good night’s sleep got around 9hrs again, my BGL was a bit high this morning at 7.5. The temp this morning is 21c or 69.8f we are looking at a top temp of 26 but we will see.

The day is warm with some rain but not much, thankfully the clothes Tim hung outside to dry did dry.

I had a moment of confusion just not with it, thankfully it didn’t last long.

Tim has at last got the stand for the portable A/C the way he wants it and he is happy, now he is going to work on the one for Sue.

Around 6pm I suggested we turn the A/C off, but no Tim said he was hurt, although when he went to have a shower, I turned the fans off.

Steps:5,523 = 2.7k’s or 1.6miles

Slept well although I had to get up 4 times to pee, so frustrating but at least my feet are not swollen. I managed 6hrs and 38mins of sleep. My BGL was 6.6 the temp at 5.30an was 21c or 69.8f.

Tim left for work at 9am he should be home around 3pm

The temp at midday is 27c or 80.6f, so I turned the air con on in the kitchen.

The order with the exhaust hose extension arrived, earlier than expected. When Tim went to attach it, he found it to be a tad small but with some thick black tape he attached it and made it work.

By 4pm I was having difficulty with my concentration and by 5pm I was having issues with trying to stay awake and functioning.

Steps: 9,099=4.6k’s or 2.8miles

I had a good night sleep with 9hrs and 11mins, I was up at 4.50am. my BGL was 6.4 and the temp was a nice 21c or 69.8f.

I spent an hour trying to get this damn computer to work, it wasn’t the computer it was the internet for some reason it took my that long to think turn the damn modem off and on again. After doing that the problem was fixed.

Tim had a dentist appointment cost him $350 I can’t remember what work he had done but he says he needs another filling and 2 extractions all up for that work will be around $900.

He is working this afternoon

When Tim got home, he wasn’t in a good mood, and it got worse by the time I went to bed he was saying that Tasha should be coming and helping me not him.  Just as I got into bed, he said something about being done with the girls they don’t love or respect him and next time he sees someone here he will just get in the car and leave, I didn’t catch what name he said though.   I asked if he wanted to talk about it he snapped no and walk out of the room.

Steps: 4,774

Not the best night, woke up feeling sad and with zero motivation, but I have so far unpacked the dishwasher cleaned up the birdseed from near the front door and cleaned the kitchen.

My BGL was 6.4 at 5.30am the temp was 20c or 68f.

I have now vacuumed and feed the birds, cleaned up more birdseed mess, put a load of washing on read some blogs, listen to 2 chapters of my book.

Tim has arranged the drink and Wi-Fi on the cruise cost us $1,100 extra.

Blain came and tossed the rat bat up into the ceiling.

Tasha came down to let us know that her and Jess have decided to get a skip bin Tim said he would chip in.

Steps:5,611 = 2.8k’s or 1.7mile

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Post With Links To Other Posts

 

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

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/01/hodgepodge-no-2-for-2026.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/01/getting-to-know-me_10.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/01/tuesdays-4.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/01/sunday-stealing.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/01/transgender-identity.html

http://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/01/share-your-world-number-2.html

 

 

 

 

Tears

 

Hi everyone, last week we looked at light & dark connected with the eyes, this week we are looking at tears. Did you know tears are produced all the time and not just when we cry, this is because they help to keep our eyes moist and clean.

Tears are produced via special glands under the eyelids, called the lacrimal gland which is around the size and shape of an almond these glands produce about 1 millilitre of lacrimal fluid aka tears each day and they drain away via our nasal cavity.

What do tears actually do, well they have four main functions they wash dirt of the surface of the eyeball; they keep the surface of the eyeball clean and moist. They carry water and nutrients to the cornea and lens, lastly, they help prevent infection, as our tears are made up of a watery solution that contain salt, mucus and an enzyme called lysozyme and it is lysozyme that kills bacteria which prevents infection.

Sometimes we produce more tears than the drainage system can cope with such when we are crying or having an allergic reaction which is one reason, we feel the need to blow our nose.

Our eyes produce more tears in response to emergencies such as in response to fumes from an onion or when a foreign object is in the eye.

Some people wonder why their eyes sting when they go to an indoor swimming pool this is because the disinfectants used to keep the pool clean contain chlorine.

Did you know that the ability to express emotions such as extreme happiness or extreme sadness as well as pain or shock by crying is thought to be a uniquely human trait.

 

 

Reptiles

 

Ok how about we have a look at reptiles, you know those cold-blooded animals that are covered with scales or plates instead of skin or feathers.

Most of them lay eggs but there are some that give birth to their young, most reptiles are lizards with over 3,700 different species.

The largest lizard is the komodo dragon, they can eat as much as 80% of their body weight in a single meal.

They reach up to 3 m in length and around 150 kg in weight and are native only to a handful of Indonesian islands, including Komodo, Rinca, and Flores.

However, the largest reptile is the saltwater crocodile, they are up to 6.32m or 20.7ft. they weigh around 1,000–1,500 kg 2,200–3,300lb.

They can be found in Northern Australia, Southeast Asia, Papua New Guinea.

 

 

Cowra

 

Today I am sharing a little about the town of Cowra which I visited on my recent holiday.

The town is located in the state of New South Wales, Australia. Situated on the banks of the Lachlan River, Cowra is approximately 310 kilometres west of Sydney and is known for its rich history, picturesque landscapes, and warm country hospitality.

It has a notable historical significance, particularly related to World War II. It was the site of the infamous Cowra Breakout in 1944, where hundreds of Japanese prisoners of war attempted to escape from a local camp. This event has shaped Cowra’s identity, and the town now features commemorative sites such as the Japanese Garden and Cultural Centre, which symbolise reconciliation and friendship.

The region’s Aboriginal heritage is also significant, with the Wiradjuri people being the traditional custodians of the land.

Cowra is an agricultural area, with farming being the backbone of the local economy. The area is renowned for producing quality wine, beef, lamb, and various crops.

Cowra also has the Japanese Garden and Cultural Centre this is  one of the largest Japanese gardens in the Southern Hemisphere, providing tranquil walking paths and vibrant seasonal displays.

There is the POW Campsite and Memorial, which is a site dedicated to the memory of the Cowra Breakout and its impact on Australian-Japanese relations.

It is part of the Lachlan Valley, which offers beautiful natural scenery, bushwalking, and birdwatching opportunities.

The Cowra wine region is home to several cellar doors and vineyards, attracting wine enthusiasts from all over.

Cowra is accessible by road, with regular coach services connecting it to Sydney, Canberra, and neighbouring towns. The nearest major train station is located in nearby Bathurst, while regional airports provide flights to larger cities.

Life in Cowra is relaxed and welcoming, with a strong sense of local pride. Residents enjoy a blend of country living, community events, and access to beautiful parks and riverside areas.

Week Two of 2026

 

When I woke up it was 5.15 and my first thought was how did I sleep through the alarm, it took a few seconds to remember it was Sunday.

This morning my BGL was 7.1, it was 19c or 66f and I had 10hrs & 22mins of sleep.

By 9am it is 24c or 75f and we have thunder & lightning with rain, so it is muggy. Due to how muggy it is I have the air con on.

Tim left for work at 12.30pm

It has rained on and off all day

Steps:7,198 = 3.6k’s or 2.1m’s

       TEMIKA’S 16^TH BIRTHDAY

Had a good night sleep got 8hrs & 20mins, my BGL was 7.5 and at 6.30am it was 18C or 64.9f

Sue picked me up and we dropped a birthday card and gift card off for Temika, then we went to Daves and dropped of Dawson’s Christmas present after that we went to Kathy’s work and dropped of Kelli’s Christmas gifts after that we went to Warners Bay Plaza and did some shopping.

When we got back here, we found that Tim had locked the door and I couldn't get in we rang the doorbell and bashed on the door, then our neighbour called for him to let us in as he was out the back.

It is damn hot today had to turn the air con of for a while.

Steps: 8,860 = 4.5k’s or 2.7 miles

I got up at 4.25am as after going to the loo at 3.20am I wasn’t able to go back to sleep only dozing on and off till I got fed up and decided to get up. I had 8hrs of sleep so that’s good.

The temp at 5am was 19c or 66f, my BGL was 6.5.

I have the portable air conditioner going and the room is comfortable.

I am feeling emotionally today.

Dawson turned up around 3pn he came to say thanks for the Christmas gift.

When Tim arrived homed, he complained about me not having the air con on, but I had not long turned it off as there was a cool breeze, so I opened the doors and turned the air con off.

Steps: 5,066 = 2.5k’s

What a morning, I was up at 5am as usual and by 6.45am I was so tired that I went back to bed till 7.30am when Tim left for work. After that I was ok for a bit but became very tired again and found myself zoning out. I had 7hrs 22mins of sleep and my BGL was 6.4 and it was 20c or 68f.

By 11am it was 28c or 82.4f and I had to turn the kitchen A/C on as well. The portable A/C was already on.

It reached a top of 32c or 89.6f

Tim got home from work at 2.15pm so not a long day.

I managed to write one letter which made me happy.

Steps:7,516 = 3.8k’s or 2.2miles

 

It feels like a busy start to the day, I was up at 4.50am, I opened the house up and vacuumed and tidy the kitchen before having a shower.

My BGL is 6.1 at 5.30 and the temp is 20c or 68f, we are in for a hot day.

Sam came over just to look through the kitchen for food and while she was here Tim got up so I gave her, her birthday gift a $50n gift card for EB Games.

Sam liked what I gave her for her birthday the gift card and what I wrote in the card.

This afternoon I received a parcel which contained 2 dresses and a top I hadn’t ordered checked and they were free gifts from Temu. One of the dresses was what I was thinking about for Sam. Sam tried it on and came and showed me and I thought she looked nice.

I haven’t mentioned it to Tim as he would only go on about me encouraging feel I am being supportive.

The temp reached 35c or 95f, the heat made me sick, Jessica asked me if I wanted to go to lunch with them for Sam’s birthday, but I felt too sick to do so.

Tim went on and on about me giving Sandy a small bottle of “his” Fanta so much that I snapped at him that I got it and to let it go, he just got more pissed.

Steps: 8,786 = 4.5k’s or 2.7miles

A rough night I was up and down to pee about 5 times during the night and woke feeling tired but decided to get up anyway so I could get some stuff done before the heat arrives. I had around 7hrs of sleep.

It is a pleasant 20c or 68f, but we are in for a stinking hot day with a top temp of 34c.

Tim has caught the bus out to Toronto I think to meet up with some work mates he isn’t driving so he can have a couple of beers.

Tim arrived home at 2pm also at 2pm it was 33c or 91.4f.

Tim realised that the portable A/C is leaking from the front and there is water all over the floor. He has spent ages trying to figure out why. He now has it sitting with the front raised up a tad and I am worried it will fall but it stopped the leaking.

He is now working tomorrow.

Steps:10,112

I had a good night getting around 7hrs of sleep. However, I am feeling depressed and want to cry, why? Well, there is more tension between Tim & Jess over Sam. Jess is fed up with how Tim treats Sam refusing to refer to Sam as she and going on about just being truthful and that Sam is male not female.

When Tim mentioned it and I read what he wrote to Jess I could understand her feelings and because I didn’t 100% side with him Tim became angry with me and ended up saying he didn’t want to discuss it.

So, I am not feeling that good this morning.

It has been another bloody hot day got up to 40c here or 104f.

Steps:8,650 = 4.3k’s or 2.3mikes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Caturday with Luca

 

Good morning all, here is my first Caturday post this week we are looking at Luca

Links

 

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

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/01/books-read-in-2025.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/01/getting-to-know-me.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/01/hodgepodge-number-1-for-2026.html

https://joannerambling.com/2026/01/05/the-dish/

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/01/first-tuesdays-4-for-2026.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/01/share-my-world-number-1-for-2026.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/01/this-is-for-sue.html

    

My brother Dave and our dad

 

 

The Iris

 

Time for another post about the human eye, this week we are looking at the iris, I’m sure we all know that the iris is part of our eyes but how many know its purpose or how it’s made up.

Light has to enter the eye in order for us to see, too much light can damage the eye, but too little light means we can’t see clearly. The eye has its own built-in mechanism for regulating this, the iris.

The iris is made up of two sets of muscle fibres; there is the radial muscles that run from the outside edge of the iris towards the centre. Then there are the circular muscles that form the inner rim of the iris and are arranged is a series of rings.

These muscles contract in response to signals from the brain, when one contracts the other relaxes, we cannot make them contract by thinking about it, they just do it when needed. Controlling the size of the iris controls how much light enters the eye.

The radial and circular muscles have opposite effects, when the circular muscles contract they pull the radial muscles inward, shrinking the size of the pupil, when the radical muscles contract they pull the circular muscles outwards the size of the pupil increases.

So, in normal light they are balanced, when in bright light they contract and in dim light they increase.

The drops that are put in your eyes when they are being checked cause the pupil to enlarge making it easier for them to be examined.

 

The Kiwi

 

When you think about New Zealand what do you think of?

Many would think of the Kiwi, so this week’s creature is the kiwi.

It is a flightless bird native to New Zealand, they are small to medium-sized bird with a round body, long slender bill, and coarse, hair-like feathers that give them a shaggy look. Unlike most birds, kiwis have nostrils at the tip of their beak, which helps them sniff out food like insects, worms, and berries. Their wings are tiny and hidden under their feathers, making them completely flightless. Kiwis also have strong legs and claws for digging and running, but they’re quite shy and rarely seen during the day.

They are found in forests, scrubland, and grassland across New Zealand’s North, South, and Stewart Islands. They are nocturnal, preferring to forage for food at night. Kiwis are solitary animals, coming together only to mate. They are known for their keen sense of smell and their ability to detect prey underground.

The kiwi lays one of the largest eggs in proportion to its body size of any bird species. The female lays a single egg, which can weigh up to 20% of her body weight. The male usually incubates the egg for about 75 days, and once the chick hatches, it is fully feathered and independent within a few days.

Due to habitat loss and predators like stoats, dogs, and cats, they have declined significantly. Conservation efforts are ongoing to ensure the survival of these iconic birds.

The kiwi is more than just a bird in New Zealand—it’s a national symbol. New Zealanders are often colloquially referred to as “Kiwis,” and the bird features on coins, emblems, and sports teams’ uniforms. They represent uniqueness, resilience, and a strong connection to the land.

 

The Dish

 

As most will know that early in December Tim & I went on a short holiday, so I decided to kick of my Monday’s post with information about some the places we visited then.

Let’s start with the Parkes Observatory, which can be found on the outskirts of the town of Parkes in New South Wales, it is where “The Dish” is located.

If you are wondering what the dish is well it’s a 64-metre radio telescope, it was officially opened on 31/10/1961. The facility is managed by CSIRO (Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation) and was constructed in collaboration with both Australian and international experts. Its 64-metre diameter radio telescope was, at the time, one of the largest and most advanced in the world.

The observatory is perhaps best known for its role in relaying television signals of the Apollo 11 moon landing to the world in July 1969. This historic event was dramatised in the popular Australian film "The Dish," cementing Parkes’ place in space exploration history, back in 2000.

The telescope only receives signals from space and never sends them.

The observatory is open to the public and features a visitor center with interactive displays, a café, and the opportunity to view the dish up close. Educational programs and guided tours are available, making it a popular destination for school groups, science enthusiasts, and travellers passing through regional New South Wales.

Here are some statistics

Dish Diameter: 64 metres (210 feet)

Surface Accuracy: Maintained to within 1 millimetre (after upgrades)

Height: Approximately 55 metres from ground to top of the dish when vertical

Weight: The moving part of the telescope weighs about 1,000 tonnes

Frequency Range: 700 MHz to 26 GHz (after multiple upgrades)

Current Receivers: Multi-beam and single-pixel receivers for various radio frequencies

 

Week 1 of 2026

 

SUNDAY 28 December 2025

Had a good night’s sleep getting 8hr’s & 16mins, it is 15c or 59f at 5.30am, my BGL is 6.3.

I am in long pants as it is somewhat cold here.

Tim and I went to Officeworks to check out computer chairs, but they didn’t have in stock what I wanted, and I decided to wait instead of getting something different.

Then Tim decided to get KFC for lunch all I got was a go bucket and I couldn’t even eat all of that.

Steps:10,206 = 5.1k’s or 3.2miles

Another cool morning only 15c or 59f and I had a good 8hrs sleep and my BGL is 6.5

Sue and I went to Lake Fair so I could go to Big W and Woolies which I did, I wore long black pants and a sleeveless top with knee hi stockings and sandals and when we left Woolies, I had to remove my shoes and stockings as my feet hurt so much.

It's not as cold today.

Steps: 7,652 = 3.7k’s or 2.3 miles

I had a good night’s sleep with around 8hrs again. It is 14c or 57f at 5.30am, my BGL is 6.5

Tim got up at 6.30am this is the third morning he has been up early. I haven’t done much today, just the usual housework and blogging.

Sandy came over this afternoon just to say hi and pick up her Christmas presents.

I asked Tim if he could take me to have my blood tests done tomorrow at 6.30am when they open, he said 7am and for some reason that has put me in a mood, when he told me he 662 hang the washing on the outside line and for some reason that also annoyed me. I am just being difficult and I don’t know why.

Steps:4,776=2.4k’s or 2.4miles

NEW YEAR’S EVE

Last night was a good night 8hrs & 30 mins, my BGL was 6.9 and qat 5.30am it was 15c or 59f

Tim took me to have my blood test done at 6.30am.

I received a text from Centrelink informing me I had not reported Tim’s income, and I can’t be paid till I do, so I went online and did that straight away. I was not surprised I had to report his income.

Tim is in a mood over is new printer as he is out of black ink and he doesn’t think he should be, so he has taken it to Officeworks for someone to look at it. Well after taking the printer to Officeworks it was sent off to be repaired.

At 11am it was 22c or 71.6f.

I also had an appointment with the pharmacist for a medicine review all went well.

Tim has finally cut my hair, so I am much happier with it.

Steps:6,501=3.4k’s or 1.9m’s

NEW YEAR’S DAY

I had 8hrs & 45mins of sleep. My BGL was 6.9 at 6am, the temp was 17c or 62f.

It is a coldish day, and we have had rain on and off. Kathy said it’s a blah day and she is right.

Tim is mopping around the house looking tired and bored and is complaining he is tired from doing nothing.

I have been feeling restless on and off all day.

Steps: 4,756 = 2.5k’s or 1.5m’s

Had a good night sleep, getting 8hrs of sleep, my BGL was 6.5 and it was 17c or 62f at 5.30am the ground outside is wet.

Sue will pick me up around 12.30 as we have an appointment with the podiatrist, but we have to go to Service NSW so Sue can renew her licence.

When we walked into Service NSW there was so many people, I was lucky to fine a seat, I set an alarm for 1.10pm as if not seen by then we would have to leave and go back we walked in at 12.06 and out at 12.53pm so it took less than an hour.

Sue was expecting to have her toenail partly removed but as it turned out all that was needed was to have the in-grown part removed again.

Steps:7,366 = 3.7k’s or 2.7m’s

I slept well woke only once to pee, I got 8hrs or 10mins, the time at 5.30am was 17c or 62f, it is supposed to be a hot day with a temp of 27c, but we will see. My BGL was 7.0

Tim left for work at 1.25pm, I will be in bed when he gets home, it has been a warm day.

I received a parcel this morning stuff from Temu.

This afternoon mw and my 3 siblings facetimed and all had a drink, Jeannie however was at the hospital with her partner Pete, he was having tests done.

Sandy said that when she saw Jeannie & Pete, she told Jeannie that she thought Pete looked like he is dying.

Steps: 7,226 = 3.6k’s or 2.1m’s

It did reach 27c or 80f