Mobile Phone Use While Driving in NSW, Australia

 

Hi everyone today I am writing about using a mobile phone while driving.

I think we all know that using a mobile phone while driving is a serious road safety issue not only in New South Wales but pretty much everywhere. A phone can distract a driver by taking their eyes off the road, their hands off the steering wheel, or their mind away from driving. Even looking away for a few seconds can increase the risk of missing hazards, slow reaction time, or causing a crash.

Drivers must not hold a phone in their hand or rest it on any part of their body while driving. Mobile phone detection cameras operate in NSW and can detect illegal phone use at any time. If a driver breaks the rules, they may receive a fine and demerit points, and double demerits can apply during holiday periods.

The safest choice is to avoid using a mobile phone while driving. Drivers can put their phone on silent, use “Do Not Disturb While Driving”, ask a passenger to help, or pull over and park safely before using the phone. Following these rules helps protect the driver, passengers, pedestrians, cyclists and everyone else on the road.

However, the rules are stricter for learners, and those on their “P’s” these drivers must not use a mobile phone at all while driving, even when stopped at traffic lights or stuck in traffic. This includes calls, texting, music, social media, maps and hands-free use.

In NSW, “P’s” refers to provisional licence stages. A P1 driver is a new solo driver who displays red P plates, while a P2 driver is a more experienced provisional driver who displays green P plates. Both P1 and P2 drivers still have special licence conditions because they are gaining experience on the road.

Full licence holders may use a phone only in limited ways, such as hands-free voice calls or audio, or when the phone is secured in an approved holder and used for calls, audio or navigation.

Airway Problems

Today I am looking at the problems we can experience with our airways, ya know those passages that carry air into and out of the lungs.

Problems can arise when said passages become narrowed, blocked, irritated, or inflamed. These passages include the nose, throat, voice box, windpipe, bronchi, and smaller breathing tubes in the lungs. When airflow is reduced, a person may find it harder to breathe, speak, sleep, exercise, or clear mucus from the chest.

The common causes are infections, allergies, asthma, chronic lung disease, smoke exposure, choking, swelling, injury, or structural narrowing of the airway. Some problems are short-term, such as a cold or allergic reaction, while others can be long-term and need ongoing medical care.

The signs and symptoms to look for include

·       Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

·       Noisy breathing, such as wheezing, whistling, or stridor

·       Persistent coughing or chest congestion

·       Tightness in the chest

·       Difficulty speaking, swallowing, or sleeping because of breathing symptoms

·       Blue, grey, or pale lips, gums, or fingernails in severe cases

As a severe airway problem can be life-threatening, we need to call for help sooner than often we may if someone is choking, cannot breathe or speak, has swelling of the face or throat, becomes confused or very drowsy, or develops blue, grey, or pale colouring around the lips or fingernails. It is time to stop scrolling and time to ring your emergency number here in Australia that is 000.

Treatment depends on the cause. It may include inhalers, allergy medicines, antibiotics for certain infections, oxygen support, removal of a blockage, or procedures to open a narrowed airway. Prevention can include avoiding smoke and known allergens, following an asthma or lung disease action plan, staying up to date with recommended vaccinations, and seeking medical advice when breathing symptoms are new, worsening, or unusual.

Next week we will look at specific conditions that block our airways.

 

Week 35 of 2026

 

I slept well and was up 3 minutes before the alarm went off. Tim didn’t get home till 2.30am and I have no idea what time he went to bed.

I feel good this morning and managed to sweep, vacuum and clean the kitchen.

I also went for a walk to post my letters.

Blain came to see his mum and came to see me as well, while here he helped Papa check the damage to my chair and Tim decided that he will be able to repair the chair.

Steps: 7,669 = 4.7k’s or 2.9miles

I slept well enough but was up at 4.15am.

Sue came and picked me up and we went to Officeworks to pick up some documents I had printed. We then went to the chemist to get more needles for Tim’s insulin.

Tasha told me she lost it with the workers, whenever she asked a question all they would say is “don’t know” at one point because she was frustrated and angry one of the workers started laughing at her which is when she told them to pack up and leave, she had to tell them 3 times to leave before they did.

She doesn’t know if they will come back or what. Because she is only 4’ 7” tall or 140cm tall some people think she is a push over she is not.

Steps: 7,712 = 4.8k’s or 2.9 miles

A new day has arrived; I got up at 4.45am and after feeling a bit sluggish this morning I am at last starting to feel ok.

I went to Tasha’s to wait in case workmen arrived they didn’t.

This afternoon I fell over, not much damage a bruised knee and a sore elbow, I didn’t hit my head but trying not to hit it I strained a muscle I suspect.

At first, I just laid on the floor, but when I tried to get up I couldn’t so I rang Tasha no answer so I rang Sue and said 6 words I've fallen and can't get up the next thing I knew l had Tasha, Sue and Sandy here. Tasha had rung me back and I said the same 6 words to her.

In order to make others happy I am seeing the quack on Thursday morning.

Steps: 5,709 = 3.5k’s or 2.1 miles

A new day is here and a wet day it is my left knee and elbow are very sore, and I have a nasty small bruise on my knee.

I have had issues all day with my left leg and pain and not feeling stable when standing.

At 3pm I went to have a 30-minute lay down only to fall asleep for an hour.

Steps: 5,598 = 3.4k’s or 2.1 miles

Another day has arrived and it’s a somewhat cold start to the day.

My knee is really sore and has a dark bruise on it, my Dr’s appointment is at 8am, as it’s not raining, I will walk up to the top of the driveway to meet Sue.

Ok the doc said my knee and arm are fine and to use ice packs on my knee not heat packs as they can make the area bleed more darking the bruise and causing more pain.

The arvo has been fine done some housework, read some blog posts had little energy to do much at all.

Steps: 7,005 = 4.3k’s or 2.6 miles

Another day is here and it’s the last day of the working week. I have woken with not just a headache but an earache as well, so no hearing aids till that eases and as I am alone that should be ok

Did an email to our tendency officer about how I am concerned about Natasha’s state of mind due to all the shit going on with the workmen at her     place. She replied and acknowledged my concerns.

I was sitting here at my computer when in walks Sam and Jess, I felt so happy seeing Sam, I get the same way when seeing Blain and the girls, but I don’t see the girls much due to distance and their ages 13 & 16.

Had 2 naps today

Steps: 4,879 = 3k’s or 1.7miles

 

The Behaviour of Tuxedo Cats on Caturday with Luca

 

This week it is Luca and all tuxedo cats time to shine here, as todays Caturday post is about the behaviour of tuxedo cats.

Tuxedo cats are often known for their striking black-and-white markings, which make them look as though they are dressed for a formal occasion. However, a tuxedo cat is not a separate breed; it is a coat pattern that can appear in many different breeds and mixed-breed cats. Because of this, their behaviour is shaped more by their individual personality, upbringing, breed background, and environment than by their colouring alone.

Many owners describe tuxedo cats as confident, curious, playful, and affectionate. They may enjoy following people around the house, investigating new objects, and joining in daily routines. Some tuxedo cats are very social and vocal, while others are quieter and more independent. Like all cats, they communicate through body language, sounds, and habits such as rubbing, kneading, purring, or choosing favourite resting places near their humans.

Play is an important part of tuxedo cat behaviour. A bored cat may become restless, scratch furniture, or seek attention in mischievous ways, so toys, climbing spaces, scratching posts, and regular interaction can help keep them settled and happy. Puzzle feeders and short play sessions are especially useful for cats that seem clever, energetic, or easily bored.

Although tuxedo cats have a reputation for being charming and full of personality, it is important not to assume that every cat with this coat pattern will behave the same way. The best way to understand a tuxedo cat is to observe its individual preferences: how it likes to be touched, when it wants attention, what kind of play it enjoys, and where it feels safe. With patience, enrichment, and respectful handling, a tuxedo cat can become a lively, loyal, and entertaining companion.

 

Links And Life

 

Here are this week’s links

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/08/sharing-my-world_0223426885.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/08/last-august-hodgepodge.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/08/friendly-fill-ins_045024667.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/08/getting-too-know-you.html

 

              Living a Go-With-the-Flow Life Over an Intentional Life

Ok I have been thinking about how I live my life going with the flow over some who live what some may call an intentional life.          

I feel there is a quiet beauty in living a go-with-the-flow life. It does not mean being careless, passive, or without ambition. Instead, it means allowing life to unfold without needing to control every detail. It is the art of trusting the moment you are in, adapting when plans change, and believing that not every meaningful experience has to be scheduled, measured, or perfectly planned.

An intentional life may be praised because it gives direction. It asks us to set goals, make plans, choose our values, and move through the world with purpose. There is strength in that. But sometimes, a life that is too intentional can become heavy. Every choice can start to feel like a test. Every delay can feel like failure. Every unexpected turn can seem like evidence that we are falling behind.

Going with the flow offers a different kind of wisdom. It teaches patience. It reminds us that life is not only something to design, but something to experience. Some of the best moments arrive unannounced: a conversation that changes your perspective, an opportunity you did not expect, a detour that leads somewhere better than the original plan. When we loosen our grip, we make room for surprise, growth, and ease.

This does not mean giving up on dreams or drifting without care. A go-with-the-flow life can still have values, hopes, and direction. The difference is that it leaves space for change. It says, “I know what matters to me, but I do not need to force life to happen in one exact way.” It is less about abandoning intention and more about softening it.

Some may feel a peaceful way to live is to carry intention lightly by knowing yourself and remaining open to whatever. while noticing the scenery along the way. A go-with-the-flow life invites us to trust that we do not always have to chase life so tightly. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Using A Roundabout

 

Today I am looking at roundabouts which are common here in Australia. They began appearing in Australia in the late 1960s, with the first official Australian roundabout reported to have been built in Canberra in 1969. They became more common in later decades as traffic planners used them to improve safety and keep vehicles moving through intersections.

They are designed to keep traffic moving safely through intersections. In NSW, the most important rule is that drivers entering a roundabout must slow down and give way to any vehicle already in the roundabout. You should only enter when there is a safe gap.

When approaching a roundabout, be prepared to stop. You must give way to all vehicles already in the roundabout, including vehicles coming from your right, from directly opposite, or from your left if they have already entered. Giving way means slowing down or stopping to avoid a collision.

If turning left you must indicate left before entering the roundabout, stay in the left lane unless signs or arrows say otherwise, and keep indicating until you exit.

When going straight ahead do not indicate on approach. When leaving the roundabout, indicate left if it is practical to do so.

If turning right or making a U-turn you must indicate right before entering, use the right lane unless signs or arrows allow another lane, keep indicating right while turning, then indicate left when exiting if practical.

On multi-lane roundabouts, always follow the arrows and signs on the road. Plan ahead so you are in the correct lane before entering. If the left lane is marked for left turns only, you must not use it to go straight. If the right lane is marked for right turns only, you must not use it to turn left or go straight.

You should avoid changing lanes inside a roundabout if possible. If you need to change lanes, you must indicate, check your blind spot and give way to any vehicle in the lane you are moving into. You may only change lanes where the line is broken. When exiting, signal left if practical and stop indicating once you have left the roundabout.

Simple safety tips

·       Slow down as you approach and look for signs, arrows and give way lines.

·       Enter only when there is a safe gap in traffic.

·       Watch for cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians near the roundabout.

·       Do not assume another driver’s signal is correct; wait until it is safe.

·       Keep your speed low and be ready for traffic to stop suddenly.

 

Our Lungs

 

This week we are looking at our lungs.

The human lungs are a pair of soft, spongy organs located inside the chest, protected by the rib cage. They are an essential part of the respiratory system, which allows the body to take in oxygen and remove carbon dioxide. Every breath brings fresh air into the lungs, where oxygen moves into the bloodstream and is carried to cells throughout the body.

The rib cage plays an important role in protecting the lungs. The ribs form a strong, curved frame around the chest that helps shield the lungs and heart from injury. The rib cage also helps with breathing because the ribs move up and out when a person breathes in, allowing the lungs to expand, and move down and in when a person breathes out.

Air enters through the nose or mouth, travels down the trachea, and then passes into two main bronchi, one leading to each lung. These bronchi branch into smaller tubes called bronchioles, which end in tiny air sacs called alveoli. The alveoli are surrounded by small blood vessels, making them the main site where oxygen and carbon dioxide are exchanged.

A person’s lung capacity or the amount of air the lungs can hold varies from person to person depending on age, body size, fitness level, and overall health. People who exercise regularly often use their lungs more efficiently, while smoking, illness, or pollution can reduce how well the lungs work. Measuring lung capacity can help doctors understand how healthy a person’s breathing system is.

The right lung has three lobes, while the left lung has two lobes to make room for the heart.

The diaphragm, a large muscle below the lungs, helps pull air in and push air out during breathing.

Healthy lungs help supply oxygen for energy, remove waste gases, and support the body’s overall function.

Week 34 of 2026

 

I had a rough night waking every few hours to pee and ended up getting up for the day at 4.45am.

It is raining and the temp is 10c or 50f at 5am.

It stopped raining by 10.30am, Tim left for work around 11am he will be home between 8.30 & 9pm.

I have had a good day but now at 6.3pm I am ratshit and will soon be in bed.

Steps: 7,337 = 4.5k’s or 2.7 miles

I had an ok night was up at 4.10am my left knee was bothering me due to me knocking it twice Saturday night.

I walked up and around the driveway this morning while it was lightly raining.

I also broke the long handle dustpan when I was sweeping stuff into it and lost my balanced and put too much weight on it. I will get Tim to look at it.

I had a 50-minute nap between 11 & 12pm, however by 5pm I am fighting to stay awake. I will be having another early night.

Steps: 6,456 = 4k’s

I slept trough to 2am got up and pee the back to bed and straight back to sleep till 4.25am when I needed to pee again and decided to stay up. At 5am the temp was 8c or 46f by 6am it was 10c or 50f.

This morning I manage to spill my drink, drop popcorn all over the bench it was annoying, but I cleaned up the mess. Then I sat down put my feet up and noticed Tasha’s car in her carport so I rang and asked if she was home, she wasn’t she had taken Jess’s car so she could put petrol in it for Jess. When she said she wasn’t home I said good, told her about cleaning up the mess and thought if she was home, I could had rung for help, but she wasn’t home so all good.

It has been a cool day, I managed a 30-minute nap

Steps: 7,603 = 4.7k’s or 2.9 miles

 

 

 

I slept just not a good sleep up and down since midnight. After Tim left I had a nice hot shower and shaved my legs.

Also noticed this morning that I hadn’t ordered milk or eggs when I did the shopping which is odd as they are generally the first two items I order.

Tasha had more workers arrive at her place today and they caused a lot more damage, Tasha rang the big boss who came and looked and was shocked, there are now major cracks in the ceiling and down the walls. The ceiling is creaking and she is worried it will collapse.

She is now waiting to hear what happens next.

Steps t,205 = 4.4k’s or 2.5 miles 

KIRSTY & VAUGHAN’S BIRTHDAY THEY ARE 36 TODAY

I had an ok night and managed to stay in bed till the alarm went off.

Sue and I went shopping and by the time we got to the checkout I was exhausted and ended up taking my shoes off.

Today more workers arrived to repair the damage and discovered that the back part of the ceiling is riddled with termites including living ones she is really upset and angry, she is being told it is limited to the dining room and isn’t in the walls she isn’t convinced.

It has been a nice day warm and pleasant.

Steps: 8,538 = 5k’s

I had a good night was still in a deep sleep when the alarm went off. I had to go back to bed for a bit.

I went to Tasha’s to wait for workmen to turn up, when they arrived, they were pest control men and sprayed more to kill the termites. Someone will be back on Monday to do more work.

Also, they noticed that her back wooden door was ruined from termites, but housing told them not to worry about it.

This afternoon when Tasha came down to help me, she brought down 2 jars of jam that Drew (her neighbour) bought and found out that it wasn’t the one her partner wanted.

Steps:5,940 = 3.7k’s

I had a good night till 3am when I was unable to settle after going to the loo, I was so bad I got up for an hour then I went back to bed for another hour when I got up and had a shower.

I cleaned behind my armchair and discovered why it isn’t working there is a part that has snapped so will need a new one.

I had to go and have a nap at 10am.

Tim is working this afternoon/night he won’t be home till around 2am.

Steps: 5,166 = 3.2k’s

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Links

 

Here are this week’s links

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/08/a-flying-hodgepodge.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/08/sharing-my-world_0151277207.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/08/friendly-fill-ins_0673683324.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/08/getting-to-know-me.html

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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The History of Sheep Shearing Clippers

 

 

Sheep shearing clippers have a long history tied closely to farming, wool production, and rural life. For centuries, sheep were shorn by hand using blade shears—spring-like metal tools like large scissors. These early clippers required strength, skill, and patience, and a shearer’s speed could make a major difference during the busy shearing season.

During the 19th century, there was a rapid growth of the wool industry, especially in Australia and New Zealand this created a need for a faster and more efficient method. By the 1860s and 1870s, inventors began experimenting with mechanical shearing machines. A breakthrough came from Frederick York Wolseley, an Irish-born pastoralist and inventor in New South Wales, who helped develop the first commercially successful mechanical shearing system. His machines used a powered handpiece connected to an overhead drive, reducing strain on the shearer and cutting wool more closely than traditional blade shears.

This transformed the shearing shed, in 1888, Dunlop Station in New South Wales became famous as one of the first properties to shear an entire flock by machine. Although many hand shearers initially resisted the new technology, mechanical shearing soon became widely adopted because it increased productivity and produced a more even fleece. So by the early 20th century, the use of machine shearing had become the standard method in many wool-growing regions.

Today sheep shearing clippers are lighter, faster, and more precise than their early predecessors, but they still follow the same basic idea: a powered cutting handpiece designed to remove fleece safely and efficiently.

From simple blade shears to electric clippers, the development of shearing tools reflects the broader story of agricultural innovation and the importance of wool in rural economies.

The Role of the Trachea and Bronchi

 

Today I am writing about the Trachea and Bronchi, after passing through the larynx the air moves into the trachea, read on to know a bit about the roles of the trachea and bronchi.

The trachea and bronchi are important parts of the respiratory system. Their main role is to carry air between the outside environment and the lungs so that oxygen can enter the body and carbon dioxide can be removed. Together, they form part of the airway system that connects the throat to the smaller air passages inside the lungs.

The trachea, also known as the windpipe, is a strong tube that runs from the larynx down into the chest. It is supported by rings of cartilage, which help keep it open so air can move freely during breathing. The lining of the trachea contains mucus and tiny hair-like structures called cilia. These help trap dust, germs and other particles, then move them away from the lungs to help protect the respiratory system.

At the lower end of the trachea, the airway divides into two main bronchi: one leading to the right lung and one leading to the left lung. The bronchi act like large branches that carry air into each lung. Inside the lungs, they divide into smaller and smaller tubes called bronchioles, which eventually lead to the alveoli, where gas exchange takes place.

In summary, the trachea provides a clear, protected passageway for air, while the bronchi direct that air into each lung. By keeping air moving, moist and filtered, these structures help the body breathe efficiently and protect the delicate gas-exchange surfaces of the lungs.

If the trachea becomes blocked, air cannot pass properly from the mouth and nose down into the lungs. This means the body may not get enough oxygen, and carbon dioxide may build up.

A blockage can happen because of something stuck in the airway, swelling, injury, mucus, or a medical condition. If the trachea is completely blocked, it is a medical emergency because the person may be unable to breathe.

A blocked trachea can cause:

difficulty breathing

coughing or choking

wheezing or noisy breathing

blue lips or skin if oxygen levels drop

loss of consciousness in severe cases

Week 33 of 2026

 

Slept through the night waking at 4.50am and it is a cold morning with a temp of 5c or 41f.

I am dressed in my black track pants and a long sleeve black top, but I expect to change later.

Tim went to help a colleague move stuff he left at 8am and got home at 1pm. He has spent the rest of the day out the back doing whatever he does out there.

At 10am I changed from the trackies into something not so warm.

This afternoon he cut my hair at last only been asking for weeks.

Steps:5,234 = 3.2k’s or 1.9 miles

Slept through the night waking at 4.58am and it’s not cold with the temp being 13c or 55f.

Sue sent me a message saying she was going to Kmart and asked if I wanted to go with her, so I did. The store we went to didn’t have the top she wanted, but Sue spoke to a helpful woman who said she would let Sue know when new stock arrived.

I bought new undies and a $5 set of knifes.

The wind is so very strong, but August is known for strong winds, as we would say it is blowing a gale outside.

The temperature reached 17c or 63f

Steps: 6,980 = 4.3k’s or 2.6 miles

Didn’t sleep as well last night woke a few times during the night to pee but thankfully, I managed to go back to sleep without much effort and I got up for the day at 4.50am, the temp was 13c or 55f. Tim said it is supposed to be a warmish day.

It has been a good day reached a top temp of 19c or 66f. I went for a walk around the driveway when I went to check the letter box only took 15 minutes but at least it was something.

Steps: 5,427=3.3k’s or 2 miles

I slept well although I was up at 4am as I woke to pee and felt awake and with it so decided to get up. When I walked into the kitchen it was a right mess, dirty dishes in the sink the bench had bits of whatever all over it but that is often how it is when I get up. It was 5c at 4.30am and at 6c at 5.30am.

At 8.25 I decided to walk down and post the three letters I have written. I was exhausted by the time I got home.

By midday it was 18c or 66f

I changed the sheets and the cover over Tim’s armchair.

Steps: 8,433 = 5.2k’s or 3.2 miles

I had a good 8hrs sleep and was up at 4.10am again it was 8c or 46f I woke to pee and since I was unable to settle again, I got up and started my day.

It has been a hard start to the day, with me not feeling that with it till around 10am. That said I still managed to clean the kitchen, sweep out and vacuum, I also washed the sheets I took off the bed yesterday and folded the clean laundry and put it away. I also decided to mop the kitchen and bathroom floors.

I decided to walk up and check the letter box at 2pm that was a mistake as I had trouble walking.

Steps:7,250 = 4.4k’s or 2 miles

I had a good night slept till just before the alarm went off, it was only 5c at 5am but it did warm up a bit during the day. It reached a top temp of 21c.

I walked down and posted three letters off at 8.10 took me 30 minutes as I walked around the driveway before doing that. I was exhausted by the time I got home.

Had a mixed day part of it I felt good and other parts I felt tired and in pain.

By 3pm I was so tired and worn out that I found it hard to concentrate and had to put my feet up and close my eyes for half an hour.

Steps:7,530=4.3k’s  

I had a good night slept till 4.30pm when I woke up to pee and decided to stay up. It is 6c or 43f at 5am by 8am it was 9c or 48f.

Tim went out to buy more crumb cutlets/chops and did a baked lunch, but he added some kind of seasoning which burnt my tongue.

It has been a busy day although I feel like I did nothing all day.  

Steps: 7,567 = 4.6k’s

 

The Behaviour of Ginger Cats

 

Hello everyone, it’s Caturday with Archie who is a ginger cat so todays post is about the behaviour of ginger cats

Ginger cats, often called orange tabbies or marmalade cats, have a reputation for being friendly, confident, and full of character. While many owners describe them as playful, affectionate, vocal, or highly food-motivated, it is important to remember that coat colour does not determine personality on its own. A cat’s behaviour is shaped by genetics, early socialisation, environment, health, and individual temperament.

One common observation is that ginger cats are often sociable. Many enjoy being near people, following their owners from room to room, or settling close by for attention. Some are also quite talkative, using meows, chirps, or trills to ask for food, play, or company. Their boldness can make them curious explorers, especially in homes where they feel safe and stimulated.

Ginger cats are also frequently described as playful and food oriented. They may respond well to puzzle feeders, short training sessions, and interactive toys because these activities give them a chance to use their curiosity and energy. Regular play can help reduce boredom-related behaviours such as excessive meowing, scratching furniture, or demanding attention at inconvenient times.

However, not every ginger cat behaves the same way. Some are outgoing and cheeky, while others are quiet, cautious, or independent. The best way to understand any ginger cat is to look beyond the colour of its coat and pay attention to its body language, routines, preferences, and past experiences. With patience, enrichment, and consistent care, ginger cats can make affectionate and entertaining companions.

Links

 

Here are this week’s links

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/08/sharing-my-world_0866100596.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/08/just-some-hodgepodge.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/08/friendly-fill-ins.html

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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The Invention of Scissors

 

Today I am writing about scissors something most of us use all the time, they are one of the most useful everyday tools, but they were not invented all at once by a single person. Their design developed over thousands of years as people looked for better ways to cut cloth, hair, leather, plants, and other materials.

The earliest scissors were probably spring-style shears used in ancient civilizations such as Egypt and Mesopotamia. These early tools were usually made from bronze and had two blades connected by a curved strip of metal. When someone squeezed the blades together, they cut; when the pressure was released, the metal spring opened them again.

A major improvement came during the Roman period, when craftsmen developed pivoted scissors. This design used two separate blades joined by a central pin or screw, allowing the blades to slide past each other. This made scissors easier to control and closer to the type we use today.

Modern scissors became more common in the eighteenth century. In 1761, Robert Hinchliffe of Sheffield, England, is widely credited with making scissors from cast steel and helping produce them on a larger scale. Steel made scissors stronger, sharper, and more durable than earlier bronze or iron versions.

Today, scissors come in many forms, including sewing scissors, kitchen scissors, hairdressing scissors, safety scissors, and surgical scissors. Although their shape has changed over time, the basic idea remains the same: two sharp blades working together to make cutting faster, cleaner, and easier.

The Role of the Pharynx and Larynx

This week we are looking at the roles of the pharynx and larynx. They are important parts of the throat that help with breathing, swallowing and speaking. Although they are close together, they have different roles. The pharynx acts like a shared passageway for air, food and liquid, while the larynx helps move air into the lungs and produces sound.

The pharynx, commonly called the throat, is a muscular tube located behind the nose and mouth. Its main role is to direct air from the nose or mouth toward the larynx and lungs, while also guiding food and liquids toward the oesophagus and stomach. Because both the respiratory and digestive systems pass through this area, the pharynx is essential for breathing and swallowing.

The larynx, also known as the voice box, sits below the pharynx and above the trachea. It allows air to pass into the windpipe and lungs and contains the vocal cords, which vibrate to produce sound. The larynx also helps protect the airway during swallowing, as structures such as the epiglottis help prevent food and liquid from entering the trachea.

Together, the pharynx and larynx help separate the pathways for air and food. The pharynx directs air and food to the correct places, while the larynx keeps the airway open for breathing and supports speech. This coordination is especially important when swallowing, because it helps reduce the risk of choking or inhaling food into the lungs.

The Adam’s apple is the visible bump at the front of the neck that is formed by part of the thyroid cartilage of the larynx. It helps protect the vocal cords inside the voice box and provides support for structures involved in speaking and swallowing. The Adam’s apple often becomes more noticeable during puberty because the larynx grows, which can also contribute to a deeper voice. Although it is usually more prominent in males, everyone has this cartilage to some degree.

 

  

Week 32 of 2026

 

Had a decent enough sleep but I’m not good this morning, tremor wise. I suspect this is due to me feeling like I have a cold or flu. I have sat and closed my eyes twice this morning.

Around 11am I went to put my feet up and couldn’t get the footrest to rise causing me to get frustrated. I used the Everfit and then decided to go and have a lay down.

After a 45-minute rest I started to feel better and even though the footrest still wouldn’t go up I was able to deal with it better.

It was around 3pm when I was able to get it to raise. I need a new remote.

Steps: 5067 – 3k’s 

Had a decent enough sleep but I was still up at 4.15am, it was only 4c or 39f when I got up. No milkshake this morning as I only have a small amount of milk left.

Sue and I had doctor appointments, the doctor said my iron levels are a bit low and my fasting BGL is a but high, then we went to Woolies before coming home.

This afternoon I started feeling awful I have a head cold and ache all over.

Steps: 6,585 = 4k’s

Had a good night woke a couple of times but managed to go back to sleep and woke with the alarm at 5am. I am feeling awful I am blowing my nose constantly.

Dawson and his girlfriend turned up for a short visit just to say hi and see how I am.

It is a warmish day, one of those days when it is warmer outside then inside.

I tried to lay down for a nap but wasn’t able breath so just sat in my armchair shut the curtain and muted the TV while I closed my eyes for 30-minutes.  After which I felt more with it.

Steps: 6,688 = 4.1k’s

I slept till 4am when I woke up and felt good so got up, it was 5c when I got up. I still don’t feel good with the damn head cold.

By 11am it was 13c and I was still feeling rotten. Managed a 30-minute nap which helped.

I still managed to do the housework and swept out the front.

Blain and a mate came to see me they were here about 20-minutes.

Steps: 6,593 = 4.1k’s 

I slept till 4am when I woke up and felt good so got up, it was 5c when I got up. I still don’t feel good with the damn head cold.

Went shopping with Sue and was exhausted by the time I got home, my feet felt heavy and I needed to rest and put my feet up for a while.

After lunch I was able to empty the recycle boxes into the outside bin and did some other things around the house before needing to put my feet up again.

Tim rang to let me know he will be late home again as after his run was over, he had to pick up a different bus and take it to West Gosford, then get another bus bring it back, I think that’s what he said.

Steps: 7,761 = 4.8k’s

Slept well, I was up at 4.30pm it is only 4c or 39f, I have an appointment to have my eyes checked which I do once a year due to being diabetic.

It feels really cold this morning, but it feels colder inside then it does outside.

Before going to see the optometrist, we went and posted off Sue’s, and my birthday presents to Kirsty who is one of Sue’s daughters her birthday is the 20^th. She is the only one who has anything to do with her mum.

I am feeling extremely tired this afternoon and cold still.

Steps: 13,059 = 8k’s or 5 miles

I slept well, I woke at 4.40am and decided to get up the temp at that time was 4c according to my phone.

By 5.30 it was 5c or 41f and I had a wash and dressed, I had cleaned the kitchen and tossed a load of clothes into wash and made my breakie.

I am feeling more like myself but still not 100%. I have decided not to go for a walk till it’s not as cold each morning.

Tim off this weekend, he walked round to Mitre 10 to get a few bolts and screws on the way he noticed an abandoned chair that he said he will go back after dark and if it is still there, he will bring it home as it looks like a nice chair.  

Steps: 4,997 = 3k’s or 1.8miles