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

 

 

 

 

 

Caturday with Archie

 

Good morning all, today Nana is sharing a clip of me checking out this strange human mum brought home, it doesn't have skin like other humans and it doesn't have fur either, it has weird smell, mum calls it Barry. I guess if its going to be m around I will have to get use to it.

 

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/fridays-fave-five.html

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

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

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

 

Eye Issues Pt 1

Good afternoon we are looking at some of then issues that can arise with our eyes.

Now you may or may knot know there is a clear layer of membrane that covers the eye, this is usually colourless, and it has tiny blood vessels which are too fine to see.

First off is bloodshot eyes, this happens when the eye becomes infected or irritated these tiny blood vessels which is seen as fine red threads thus the name “bloodshot”. Bloodshot eyes usually return to normal slowly after the cause has gone.

Second off we have conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, this is caused by infections, allergies, or irritants that inflame the membrane covering the white of the eye and inner eyelid.

There are three different types, viral, bacteria and allergic.

Viral is most commonly caused by adenoviruses but can also stem from herpes simplex or varicella-zoster viruses. Often associated with colds or respiratory infections. It is highly contagious.

Bacterial infections are caused by bacteria like Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, or Haemophilus. Spread through contact with contaminated items (e.g. towels, cosmetics, hands). This is also contagious.

Then we have allergic which is triggered by allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, or certain cosmetics. Typically affects both eyes and may accompany hay fever symptoms like sneezing and itchy nose.

Third we have spots and floaters, these are quite common and appear as black or gray spots, squiggly lines or could be blurry or shadowy spots. They move as your eyes move and are most noticeable against bright backgrounds like the sky or a white wall.

They are caused by changes in the gel-like substance inside your eye, but sudden or severe symptoms may signal a serious condition.

You should seek medical attention if, floaters suddenly increase in number, you see flashes of light, there's a loss of peripheral vision or floaters begin to impair your vision.

More next week

 

 

 

 

Birds

 

Hello everyone, this week we are looking at birds, did you know there are over 11,000 species of birds throughout the world and 800 different species in Australia.

Now I expect everyone knows that all birds have feathers, beaks and wings but not all can fly. I will talk about those that don’t fly next week.

The country with the largest number of different species in Colombia with about 1,917.

This remarkable avian diversity is due to Colombia's unique geography and climate.

The country with the fewest bird species is Vatican City, due to its extremely small size and limited natural habitat. However, if you're considering larger countries with more ecological context, Iceland is often cited as having notably low avian diversity.

Do you know the diet of birds, most eat plants and seeds but there are some that eat meat, meat eaters are considered birds of prey. However, there are some that are not like the Butcher bird and the Magpie both are native to Australia.

Birds that have musical voices are called songbirds; they have specially developed vocal cords which are called the syrinx which they use to produced sounds resembling songs. They also have a special section in their brain which helps them learn their songs.

The birds that fly do so to find food and avoid predators; birds have a very light skeleton and strong muscles and wings. The shape and size of their wings determine the distance between and type of flight they can do.

Birds have feathers for flight, insulation, communication, camouflage, and protection—making feathers one of the most versatile and essential adaptations in the animal kingdom.

However, their feathers are not just for flight, they have bright, patterned feathers are used in courtship rituals to attract mates. Males often display more vibrant colours than females. Birds fluff, spread, or raise feathers to signal aggression, readiness to mate, or submission.

Many birds have feather colours and patterns that match their surroundings, helping them avoid predators or sneak up on prey.

Some species molt into different plumage depending on the season for better camouflage.

Feathers protect birds from UV radiation, wind, rain, and physical injuries.

Dense feather layers help shield sensitive skin from harsh environments.

Japan Part 2

 

Good morning, all another Monday has arrived, Sam is off to Tafe and I am now going to write some more about Japan.

The population is 126 million, the country has the longest life expectancy with many over the age of 100.

The country is known for its cleanliness with the culture emphasizes personal responsibility for littering. A person can be fined anything between $45 and $4,500USD, and repeat offenders may find themselves in jail. People often take their trash home as public bins and often scarce, they can be found near convenience stores, train stations, and vending machines.

Speaking of vending machines, the country has more vending machines then any other country with a large variety of products.

In Japan bowing is deeply ingrained in cultural practices and is used to express gratitude, apology as well as social hierarchy. The angle, duration, and context of the bow all convey different meanings, and mastering this etiquette is key to navigating Japanese society gracefully.

Men typically bow with arms straight at their sides, women often place hands together in front of their legs. Eyes should be cast downward—not making eye contact during the bow is considered polite.

Bowing is used for the following, greetings and farewells, apologies and expressions of thanks, ceremonies, religious rituals, and martial arts. Even in customer service interactions, even train staff bow to passengers!

Japanese people may even bow during phone calls, out of habit.

While bowing is standard, handshakes may be offered to foreigners in business or casual settings.

If unsure, follow your host’s lead. A slight bow is always appreciated and shows cultural awareness.

Now for a bit about the Japanese flag, known as the Hinomaru features a red circle on a white background symbolizing the sun. It reflects Japan’s identity as “The Land of the Rising Sun.”

The red circle represents the sun, a sacred symbol in Japanese mythology and the white background symbolizes purity, honesty, and peace. The current design was formally adopted in 1999 under Japan’s National Flag Law.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Week 44 of 2025

 

I slept well 8hrs and woke only once to pee, I woke at 6am, I am not setting an alarm for Sunday mornings just waking when I do. The temp at 6.30am is 14C or 57F.

Sunday’s will be my easy don’t do much day, I think, we will see how that works out.

Tim and I went to the shops all was good but when we got home, he parked on the lawn and when I was walking to the door, I found myself unable to move and called for help but couldn't yell loud enough for him to hear me he was already inside. After a bit I managed to get inside.

It has been a nice day not hot nor cold just lovely, but it has been a long ass day, it has drawn on.

Steps:12,512 = 6.4klm’s or 3.8miles

BGL: 6.9

I slept well 9hrs & 38mins of sleep, didn’t wake at all, it is a cool start to the day. Although the temp is 18C or 64.4F.

I got up to a messy kitchen yet again; I have been up an hour and have vacuumed and cleaned the kitchen and put the dishwasher on.

It has another very warm day with the temp being 27C or 80.6F had to the air con on around midday, tried to have a nap and failed, just couldn’t settle so gave up after 20 minutes.

At around 3pm I went to check the mail, and it was lovely out, so I turned the air con off and opened the door.

Around 4pm the temp dropped to 17C or 62.6F and it got windy, had to shut the door, but I was finally sitting comfortably so I sent Sam a text to see if she would come and shut it for me and she did.

It's 6pm and I am not with it, I am going to have a shower and go to bed, I am aching all over and feel like a zombie not that I really know any zombies but going on how we see them on TV I am like one this evening.

Steps:14,573 = 7.4klm’s or 4.6 miles

BGL: 7.0

SUE’S BIRTHDAY SHE IS 56 TODAY

I slept well 9hrs & 18mins of sleep, didn’t wake at all, it is a cool start to the day. It is 13C or 55.4F and it is supposed to rain most of the day.

By midday then temp was only 15C or 59F but we haven’t had any rain.

The rain started around 12.30pm and it hasn’t stopped, and it is bloody cold temp dropped to 12C or 53F.

I tried to have a nap, but my body wouldn’t settle so I gave up after 20 minutes, when I got up, I felt lightheaded and not really with it. I was ok after an hour or so, but I am so very tired this afternoon I will be in bed early again.

Tim decided to walk up in the rain to check the mail there was only one letter for him from Care Super.

When I spoke to Sue this afternoon, she was drunk, but it’s her birthday and she is allowed to get drunk, she would miss not being in touch with 3 of her 4 children and 6 of her grandchildren. It hurts me that those children do not see how far she has come in the last couple of years, I am so proud of her.

Steps: 15,623 = 8kllm’s or 4.9 miles

BGL: 5.6-0

A wet morning and I have an appointment with the podiatrist this morning, I slept well got 8hrs & 26mins of sleep woke twice to pee and feel good this morning.

Had a podiatrist visit this morning mine was routine but Sue’s wasn’t she ended up having two lots and numbing stuff as her ingrown toenail was so deep it was extremely hard to remove. Sue cope wonderfully even though she doesn’t thing she did as she did end up in tears, but I do not think I would handle the procedure as well as Sue did.

I hope Sue is ok to go shopping tomorrow but I will not be surprised if she isn’t up to it.

Steps: 11,703 = 6klm’s or 3.8 miles

A good morning, Sue and I went shopping, not a cold day nor a wet day. I slept all night had 9hrs & 33mins of sleep woke only once to pee.

By the time we were done with the shopping we both felt exhausted and in need of a rest, Sue’s foot was hurting a lot, and I am always exhausted after doing anything at all.

The day has gone fast, I feel like I have done bugga all today.

I ordered my personalised Christmas card postage stamps; I do this when they are reduced in price. Yes, they do cost more but I like doing them.

BGL: 6.4

Steps: 16,310 = 8klm’s or 5miles

DAVID’S BIRTHDAY HE IS 47 TODAY

A nice morning, I had a sleep-in till 6am as I had a rough night, I am now awake, dress and having my morning milkshake.

Sue will pick me up around 10am and we will go see Dave at his work to wish him happy birthday and give him his presents, which is Jack Daniels.

We arrived 20 minutes early for my ultrasound appointment, but we got in straight away which was good.

It has been a nice day warm not hot.

This afternoon Sam and Baliey came over to show me some books they just bought I like what they got.

At 7pm I heard thunder, and it is raining not heavy rain now.

BGL: 6.5

Steps:12,507 = 6.3klm’s or 3.8 miles

Today’s top temp was 26C or 78.8F

A nice morning had a good night slept for 9hrs 30mins, at 5.30am it is 18C or 64F.

Tim’s up early it is only 6.30, he said he woke up and was too restless to go back to sleep.

I did a load of washing and hung it up to dry by the time I was finished I was drenched in sweat, and it is only 20C or 68F.

When I was doing my morning exercises, I had to ask Tim to turn a fan on because I was sweating so much.

It has rained on and off most of the day. The top temp was 23C or 73F.

BGL:6.0

Steps:13,940 = 7.5klm’s or 4.6miles

 

 

 

 

 

 

Caturday with Luca

 

Hi everyone, it’s Caturday and it is my turn to show off how handsome and adorable I am, I of course, am Luca I am older and more knowledgeable than Archie not that I know what that word knowledgeable means, but do I need to me thinks not.

Here I am watching mum drive, trust me when I say mum is scary when she drives.
 

Here I am relaxing on top of a cupboard watching what's going on around the house.

Don't I look handsome laying on top of the cupboard, I think this is a good shot of me.

Halloween in Australia

 

Well today in Australia it is the 31 October, in my family that means it is my baby brother’s birthday, however for some it means it is Halloween.

In the past, Halloween was not a major event in Australia, for many it was something we saw in American movies and TV shows.

Early European settlers, including the Irish, brought some customs with them, but these traditions were largely overshadowed by other local and British influences.

However, in recent years, things have been changing due to the influence of American media, globalisation, and the internet now in some parts of the country there has been a significant rise in Halloween festivities. There has been a gradually growth in popularity, particularly in the past two decades, bringing with it a mix of imported customs and unique local touches.

Participation varies by suburb, with some areas embracing the tradition and others remaining less involved.

While many Halloween customs come from overseas, Aussies have added their own flavour. Costumes sometimes feature native animals like kangaroos or kookaburras dressed in spooky attire. Given that Halloween falls in spring in Australia, costumes and decorations may be lighter and more suited to warmer weather compared to the autumn chill of the northern hemisphere.

Some Australians combine Halloween with other local traditions, such as backyard BBQs or gatherings in local parks. The lollies handed out often reflect local brands and tastes, with Freddo Frogs, Caramello Koalas, and Minties being common treats.

Halloween’s rise in popularity hasn’t come without debate. Some Australians see it as an unwelcome American import, while others enjoy the sense of fun and community. In some areas, neighbours signal their participation by decorating their homes or placing balloons on their letterboxes, letting trick-or-treaters know where they are welcome.

Trick-or-treaters are encouraged to travel in groups and only visit homes displaying Halloween decorations.

Costumes should be safe and visible, especially as the sun sets later during the Australian spring.

Respect for those who choose not to participate is important—no eggs or flour should be thrown at houses that don't join in.

Halloween in Australia is a lively and evolving celebration. While it may have started as a minor event, its popularity continues to grow, fuelled by media, community enthusiasm, and a desire for light-hearted fun. Australians have made the festival their own, blending traditional customs with local culture to create a unique and enjoyable occasion for all ages.

 

Eye Care

 

Ok I am going to share a bit more about our eyes today I am focusing on eye care. Our eyes are so important, and we need to try and take care of them.

One simple thing we can do is to wear eye protection not just when working around or with things that capable of harming our eyes, but we now know that our eyes also need to be protected from the sun thus, the reason we should wear sunglasses. Most of us know we shouldn’t look directly at the sun.

However, there are some who do not realise that snow reflects a lot of light and the glare can also damage our eyes through snow blindness, this is why snow goggles should be regarded as essential when enjoying the snow.

Something many don’t think about is cleaning our eyes this is simple to so by washing our face of a morning to remove what many will call the sleep around our eyes overnight. We also should remove any make up before going to bed at night. Then there are those who wear contact lenses, some have left their contacts in longer than what is considered safe and do not clean their contacts as often as they should.

Now days there is the damage that can be done by sitting in front of a computer screen, if you are finding your eyes feeling itchy and dry then you need to take a break from staring at the screen. Apparently when we are looking at the computer screen we don’t blink enough, anyone who finds their eyes feeling dry or itchy they should consider using some dry eye drops also know as artificial tears.

As we age having our eyes checked by an optometrist which here in Australia is free to do. I have my eyes checked every year as I have diabetes.

I will write more about the different conditions that can affect the eyes in future posts.

 

The post with links to other posts

 

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

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/10/stealing-sunday.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/10/a-bit-of-hodgepodge.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/10/tuesday-4.html

 

Pygmy Jerboa

Last week we looked at the worlds largest rodent so this week will look at the smallest rodent, this is the Baluchistan pygmy jerboas it is also known as dwarf three-toed jerboas, they are native to the arid regions of southeastern Pakistan — Baluchistan.

 Adults average only 4.3 cm’s (1.7 inches) in head and body length, with the tail averaging eight cm’s (3.1 inches). Adult females weigh only 3.2 grams (0.11 ounce). At birth newborns weigh an average of 0.48 grams (0.017 ounces).  But the tiny body doesn’t hold it back, for they can jump up to over 9 feet, according to the World Wildlife Fund. The colour of the fur matches with the colour of their environment, providing camouflage, so it’s usually beige, yellow or brown in colour.

They have a mouse-like head with large eyes and whiskers and small ears. As they live in the desert, a small flap of skin is present to prevent sand from entering their ears and nose. Their hind legs, which are designed for hopping, are four times larger than their short front feet. Its back legs have five toes, but the middle three are fused. That, and the fact that the Baluchistan Pygmy Jerboas are the smallest of the 33 species of the Jerboas gave them the name “the dwarf three-toed jerboa”. 

Don’s let its small size fool you. It’s incredibly resilient, and it has to be to survive in Baluchistan — one of the world’s harshest desert environment, and one that decimated Alexander the Great’s army. There is hardly any water and daytime and nighttime temperatures vary significantly. They live in burrows generally excavated under small bushes and feed on windblown seeds, succulent leaves of desert-adapted vegetation, and various dead animals such as other rodents and lizards. When plants dry up, they dig up roots of desert plants and eat them.

They may appear cute and defenceless, but their teensy size helps them do much more than just look adorable. From climbing across delicate branches while hunting for insects to dodging predators by hiding in thin crevices, their petite frames work to their advantage.

They are nocturnal creatures that move through the dry using long hops, balancing themselves with their tail.

 

They can slow down their respiration and blood circulation dramatically — a process called facultative hypothermia — that helps them make the most of their low nutritional diet. Animals that prey on them include the leaf-nosed vipers, trans-Caspian monitor lizards and sand cats

The pygmy jerboa hopped into the spotlight when it became a viral YouTube sensation in 2010, looking like a cross between a mouse and a baby kangaroo

 

Japan

 

Hi everyone, this week we are looking at Japan, known as the Land of the Rising Sun, it is a country with a mixture of cultural heritage as well as advanced technology and has some unique traditions.

Japan isn’t just one island but has as many as 4,000 small islands and 4 main islands, which are Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu and Shikoku.  It stretches approximately 2,400klm’s or 1,500 miles.

It is a mountainous place with about 80% of the land covered in mountains, including Mount Fuji.

Mount Fuji is not only Japan’s highest mountain; it has been a sacred site for the Shinto religion since the seventh century. The cool thing is that Princess Konohanasakuya is the Kami (divine person) of Mount Fuji in the Shinto religion. The cherry blossom is her symbol.

It is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire which makes it prone to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, and it has around 1,000 earthquakes each year. Most of these earthquakes are minor and unnoticeable, but large and destructive earthquakes do occur from time to time.

The capital is Tokyo and is considered the largest city in the world, with around 374 million people living there.

It is one of the most technologically advanced counties and is well known for its innovations in robotics.

They give a great deal of attention to education and is one of the most literate in the world. A distinctive awareness of natural beauty and interest in shape and balance are obvious.

The country is 98.5% Japanese and yes this may seem absurd, but the modern world is becoming increasingly multicultural. However, this is not the case in Japan. That is largely due to stringent visa requirements and a cultural mindset keeping its distinctive and ancient culture steeped in old traditions.

I expect when you think of Japan, you’re probably thinking of the country’s numerous cities or its main islands. You may be Surprised that 67% is covered in forest. It is not uncommon to see signs on forest trails warning to look out for black bears.

Ok that will do for this week.