Becky's Kaleidoscope

Writer's Wednesday: The Rose and the Star by Elisabet Holst

2012-02-01T13:59:00.000+01:00

This week's Writer's Wednesday is Rosen og Stjernen (The Rose and the Star) by Elisabet Holst. As previously mentioned, I'm trying to make some headway on the many Danish books on my list of books to read, and you might not find this review too relevant, if you can't read in Danish, as this book hasn't been translated into English.

Rosen og Stjernen is a historical novel about the noble woman Karen Gyldenstjerne (many members of nobility in Denmark, during the middle ages had names with literal meanings, in this case Gyldenstjerne means Golden Star). It deals with her life from childhood until her death, and as such gives a glimpse of life in Denmark during the beginning of the Renaissance in the 16th century.

Karen is intelligent, arbitrary, independent and she dabbles with healing and has visions at times. While only born to lesser nobility, she marries into the inner circle around King Frederik the Second, and interacts with famous personalities from the time, including her husband Holger Ottesen Rosenkrantz (Rose Wreath), Birgitte Gøye, Herluf Trolle and Tycho Brahe (I know most of these names might mean nothing to non-Danes, to be fair, most Danes probably won't recognize them either, unless you're into history like me).

I hope the name Tycho Brahe rings a bell though, as he was one of the most famous astronomists and scientists of his time, today he's buried in Prague. He had to move to Prague, as he got into an argument with the next king, King Christian the Fourth (who happens to later become one of the greatest kings of all time in Danish history, he's also known as the builder king, as his castles and monuments are still all over the city and have a huge place in the architecture of Copenhagen.

From a literary point of view, it wasn't the most well-written or exciting book I've read, but it did keep my attention, and I love historical novels, and learning more about history in general, so I do recommend it to other Danes who are into history.

Challenge Updates

2012-01-31T18:10:00.000+01:00

Hey All,

So time for the last of the challenge updates.

I decided to end my 30 day gluten free & sugar free challenge early, and quit it last Wednesday actually, I know I know, shame on me, but I just had several things happening all at once. It is still the longest I've gone, and while it helped me to lose a couple of pounds (I've always said if I quit sugar I lose weight, it's the only thing that keeps my weight stable), I have to be honest and say I didn't feel all that different. Maybe part of the reason is I needed to eat even less carbs, but I'm not sure.

As for gluten, I have felt no negative effects by re-introducing it, which actually quite surprised me, as I expected to feel a difference, so I don't know.

Sugar... well I can tell that it still seriously affects my blood sugar, but I've always known that. I'm going to continue to try and limit it more in the future.

The blog challenge went a fair bit better, this is my 31st post, so I managed to do the required amount of blog posts. I had hoped to do even more, and more interesting ones, but as usual, life got in the way :P (Isn't that always how it is?)

If you've had any challenges/goals for January, please feel free to let me know how it went!

My Love Language(s)

2012-01-30T17:01:00.000+01:00

So I've finally finished writing about all five love languages, which, just to remind you, are: Words of Affirmation, Quality Time, Receiving Gifts, Acts of Service and Physical Touch.

I told you at the beginning, I didn't want to tell you straight away what my love languages are, got some good guesses though, and some were also correct.

They have actually changed slightly, I did the test just before I started writing about them, and then again yesterday.

In the first test, I got Words of Affirmation (12/12) as number one, then Quality Time (8/12) & Physical Touch (7/12) as number two and three, whereas I only got a few points in Acts of Service and none in Receiving Gifts.

Well, in the new one, Words of Affirmation and Physical Touch were actually dead even (10/12 each), and with Quality Time at (7/12), so the priorities have shifted a bit I suppose.

I'm very much a words girl though, I crave compliments, especially personal compliments that show that the other person really "gets" me and knows me. I'm also much more likely to truly accept a personal compliment, than a generic "you're pretty".

Accepting compliments is something I've had to work on actually, even though it's my primary love language. I'm getting better at it though, which is also making me happier :)

Having Words of Affirmation as my primary love language also means that words are the fastest and quickest way to bring me down - even when it's a lack of words.

Physical Touch is my number two, and I'm sure my friends aren't surprised about this, I'm always hugging them, touching arms when talking and stuff like that, it's just ingrained in me.

Quality Time, well, that sort of speaks for itself, it's important to me to spend time with the people I love. When that is said though, if for some reason you can't spent time with me, writing me a personal message saying how sorry you are, and how you wish you could etc. etc., would almost make up for it :)

So, what's your love language? Please tell me what you thought of this series, you know I love to hear your thoughts and comments :)

Love Languages: Physical Touch

2012-01-30T14:11:00.000+01:00

The fifth love language is Physical Touch. You can read about the four other love languages in my first post.

Physical Touch is not just about sex, although that's important as well, but it's just as much about cuddling, hugging, holding hands, playing with hair, play-wrestling, poking etc.

It's important to keep in mind, that all human beings need physical touch in order to live an optimal life, but, for some people it's even more important. If your beloved always wants to hold your hand, hug you, touch you and be physically close to you, there's a good chance his or her primary love language is Physical Touch.

Again, it's important to emphasize, that it's not just about sex, as sex is often important to people, even when they don't have physical touch as their primary love language. Rather, you need to pay attention to how much time you spent having physical contact, outside sex.

If your beloved's primary love language is Physical Touch, you need to hug and caress them daily, hold their hand, run your fingers through their hair, play-wrestle with them and so on. You also need to remember, that when they do this to you, it's their way of showing love, as we often express love, through our own primary love language.

Do:

Hug, caress, play-fight, tickle your beloved several times a day.
Remember to be physical outside of sex.
Remember that it can be both very soft touches, and rather rough ones depending on your beloved's preferences.

Don't:

Limit physical touch to sex.
Punish your beloved by withholding physical touch.

Musical Monday: Saybia

2012-01-30T11:32:00.000+01:00

This week I've decided to share a song by a band I used to absolutely adore when they first came out about 10 years ago. It's a Danish band called Saybia, but I have actually heard this song played on someone's car stereo, when in the US.

The song I've chosen to share is called 'The Second You Sleep', but if you like it, I also recommend checking out 'The Day After Tomorrow' and 'I Surrender'.

My cover of the song, beneath the original:

Lyrics:
You close your eyes
And leave me naked by your side
You close the door so I can’t see
The love you keep inside
The love you keep for me

It fills me up
It feels like living in a dream
It fills me up so I can’t see
The love you keep inside
The love you keep for me

I stay
To watch you fade away
I dream of you tonight
Tomorrow you’ll be gone
It gives me time to stay
To watch you fade away
I dream of you tonight
Tomorrow you’ll be gone
I wish by God you’d stay

I stay awake
I stay awake and watch you breathe
I stay awake and watch you fly
Away into the night
Escaping through a dream

I stay
To watch you fade away
I dream of you tonight
Tomorrow you’ll be gone
It gives me time to stay
To watch you fade away
I dream of you tonight
Tomorrow you’ll be gone
I wish by God you’d stay

Hey
Stay

I stay
To watch you fade away
I dream of you tonight
Tomorrow you’ll be gone
It gives me time to stay
To watch you fade away
I dream of you tonight
Tomorrow you’ll be gone
It gives me time to stay
To watch you fade away
I dream of you tonight
Tomorrow you’ll be gone
I wish by God you’d stay

Stay awake
Stay
Stay

I wish by God you’d stay

Link Love

2012-01-29T17:44:00.000+01:00

Thought-provoking:
Change Blindness - You Are Not So Smart

Our Need for Privacy: The Blueprint of Abuse - The Current Conscience

When we NEED Shari'a Law in the United States - the fatal feminist

Religious Courts - Little Steps Home

British Airways Mistakenly Tells Passengers Their Plane is About to Crash - Twice! - Jezebel

Women Across the World:
Government ups pressure on Aligarh Muslim University over gender bias - India Today

Pakistan: "An unforgivable sin" - IRIN

Unmarried women not eligible for legal protection - Today's Zaman

In Iran, Ahmadinejad joins battle over women's fashions - The Washington Post

Pakistan: Low awareness of hidden FGM/C practices - IRIN

Religion:
Imaan, deen, adaab and the niqaab - Metis' Blog on Muslim Feminists

Women's Issues:
Joelle Caputa: Why Women in their 20s Get Hitched When They Should've Ditched - Huffington Post

The Parallels Between Breast Augmentation and FGM - Feministe

How to Handle Molestation: A Real Encounter - Personal Excellence Blog

You can't touch a baby through a woman's body: pregnancy and maternal personhood - Hugo Schwyzer

I have to admit, I actually love Law & Order SVU: "You watch that?" Why we consume violence against women as entertainment - The F Word

Women & Men's Issues:
Does Stripping Gender From Toys Really Make Sense? - NYTimes

Homosexual & Trans Issues:
Why Gay Parents May Be the Best Parents - LiveScience

Get ready to shit your pants. I'm going to use the word "trans." - Rage Against the Man-chine

First Openly Gay Miss California Pageant Contestants - Care2

Health:
Video: How to Best Swallow Cod Liver Oil - The Healthy Home Economist

Perfect take down of why the "everything in moderation" slogan is BS: Blubb Blubb, Moderation, Blubb Blubb - My Funny Little Life

Why you should eat more (not less) cholesterol - Chris Kesser

Top Five Foods to Never Buy at the Healthfood Store - The Healthy Home Economist

Wheatin's cheatin' - how paleo are you exactly? - The Cave Lesbian

Sugar: Q&A; What and Why - Paleo Parents

Why Skim Milk Will Make You Fat and Give You Heart Disease - The Healthy Home Economist

Recipes:
Chocolate Mousse - Robb Wolf

Gluten-Free, Grain-Free Apple Pie Cupcakes Recipe - Paleo Parents

Cocoa Loco Nutty Bites - Robb Wolf

Maple Whipped Cream - The Nourishing Gourmet

Coconutty Bon-Bons - Robb Wolf

Beauty & Body Image:
Mirror Mirror or Your Wall - The Beheld

The Body Warrior Pledge - Rosie Molinary

Full Busts and the Golden Mean Take Your Measurements - Hourglassy

Inspirational:
Love for No Reason by Marci Shimoff - Tiny Buddha

You Are Loved - DivineCaroline

How to Zone Out When You're in Hell - Jezebel

How to practice compassion - Good Life Zen

Professional:
How to Write a High-Quality eBook in 30 Days - Copyblogger

Why writing and blogging is good for you - The Dexterous Diva

Develop Your Greatest Skill - Language - Life Hack

10 Cover Letter Mistakes and How to Fix Them - LearnVest

8 Qualities of Powerful Writing - Life Hack

Relationships:
5 Keys to a Better Love Life - Life Hack

Laurie Puhn: 'I Love My Husband, But I Don't Like Him' - Huffington post

It's OK to Be Abandoned - The Good Men Project

The Power of the Candid Compliment - Simple Marriage

3 Tips to Warm Up Your Marriage This Winter - Marriage Gems

Misc.:
How to "Age" Your Wine 5 Years in 20 Seconds: Hyperdecanting - Tim Ferriss

Your Natural Hair Questions... Answered - Crunchy Betty

Grow $700 of Food in 100 Square Feet

Hendrix vx Gaga - The Good Men Project - I'm Hendrix all the way, although I really do like that specific Gaga performance.

Love Languages: Acts of Service

2012-01-29T17:00:00.002+01:00

The fourth love language is Acts of Service. You can read more about the other love languages in my first post.

If your primary love language is Acts of Service, you feel loved and treasured, when your beloved make's sure the house is tidy, helps you run errands, or helps you with something else, that is important to you.

As with the third love language, Receiving Gifts, it's important that the things you do, aren't random things, or things that are important to you, but rather the things that are important to your beloved. If s/he really loves that the kitchen is always tidy and clean, washing their car for them, won't make them feel loved, and vice versa.

Having Acts of Service as your primary love language, doesn't mean you expect your partner to wait on you hand and foot, but more so, that you feel loved and taken care of, when they do certain things for you.

Do:

Pay attention to which things are important to your beloved, and focus on those areas, whether it be cooking, cleaning, tidying, running errands etc.
Go the extra mile to do some of those things, especially if they have been requested of you.
Pay special attention to the things, that you don't care about, but your partner does.

Don't:

Think it's enough to use one of the other love languages to show your love.
Ignore the things you consider unimportant.
Forget the little every-day things that count the most, such as a shiny sink, or a bed that's made.

Thankful Thursday

2012-01-26T18:51:00.000+01:00

Hey y'all, hope you've all had a great week so far! This week I feel very lucky, blessed even.
I've had a busy day today, and there are several new videos up on my YouTube Channel.

This week I'm thankful for:

Finishing and handing in my internship report Monday. Once it, and my exam two weeks ago, have been graded, and I've passed, I'll officially have graduated, and finished my BA in Information Management.
My boss at the Cancer Society gave me the most wonderful evaluation.
Going to say goodbye to my colleagues at the elevator company tomorrow, and I have my last days of work at the Cancer Society next week. I'm not happy to be finishing, as I've loved to work both places, but I do feel ready to begin a new chapter in my life.
Still loving my self-defense class!

Writer's Wednesday: The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafrón

2012-01-25T17:41:00.000+01:00

Sorry I didn't get to finish The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafrón in time for last week's Writer's Wednesday. I was too busy with my exam, then my internship report to get it done on time. I really enjoyed it though!

The Shadow of the Wind is a literary mystery, which begins on the day 10-year-old Daniel is allowed to pick one book from the "Cemetery of Forgotten Books", he picks The Shadow of the Wind by Julián Carax, but he soon discovers this isn't a normal book, and the author, Julián Carax, is not an ordinary man.

I loved the author's writing style, his language, the way he inter-weaved the different stories. Although I did guess part of the plot, there were many parts I was wrong about, and the author did manage to make me doubt myself several times.

I greatly recommend it to anyone who is interested in Spain during the first half of the 20th century. It's a great mystery novel, beautifully written.

Quotes:
"'This is a place of mystery, Daniel, a sanctuary. Every book, every volume you see here, has a soul. The soul of the person who wrote it and of those who read it and lived and of those who read it and lived and dreamed with it. Every time a book changes hands, every time someone runs his eyes down its pages, its spirit grows and strengthens. This place was already ancient when my father brought me here for the first time, many years ago. Perhaps as old as the city itself. Nobody knows for certain how long it has existed, or who created it. I will tell you what my father told me, though. When a library disappears, or a bookshop closes down, when a book is consigned to oblivion, those of us who know this place, its guardians, make sure that it gets here. In this place, books no longer remembered by anyone, books that are lost in time, live forever, waiting for the day when they will reach a new reader's hands. In the shop we buy and sell them, but in truth books have no owner. Every book you see here has been somebody's best friend. Now they only have us, Daniel. Do you think you'll be able to keep such a secret?'"

"'My father knew from the start what was going to happen,' Clara explained. 'He stayed close to his friends because he felt it was his duty. What killed him was his loyalty to people who, when their time came, betrayed him. Never trust anyone, Daniel, especially the people you admire. Those are the ones who will make you suffer the worst blows.'"

"'Never before had I felt trapped, so seduced and caught up in a story,' Clara explained, 'the way I did with that book. Until then, reading was just a duty, a sort of fine one had to pay teachers and tutors without quite knowing why. I had never known the pleasure of reading, of exploring the recesses of the soul, of letting myself by carried away by imagination, beauty, and the mystery of fiction and language. For me all those things were born with that novel. Have you ever kissed a girl Daniel?'
My brain seized up; my mouth turned to sawdust.
'Well, you're still very young. But it's that same feeling, that first-time spark that you never forget. This is a world of shadows, Daniel, and magic is a rare asset. That book taught me that by reading, I could live more intensely. It could give me back the sight I had lost. For that reason alone, a book that didn't matter to anyone changed my life.'"

"Had I paused to reflect, I would have understood that my devotion to Clara brought me no more than suffering. Perhaps for that very reason, I adored her all the more, because of the eternal human stupidity of pursuing those who hurt us the most."

"'Television, my dear Daniel, is the Antichrist, and I can assure you that after only three or four generations, people will no longer even know how to fart on their own. Humans will return to living in caves, to medieval savagery, and to the general state of imbecility that slugs overcame back in the Pleistocene era. Our world will not die as a result of the bomb, as the papers say - it will die of laughter, of banality, of making a joke of everything, and a lousy joke at that.'"

"'Someone once said that the moment you stop to think about whether you love someone, you've already stopped loving that person forever,' I said."

"I gulped down the last of my coffee and looked at her for a few moments without saying anything. I thought about how much I wanted to lose myself in those evasive eyes. I thought about the loneliness that would take hold of me that night when I said goodbye to her, once I had run out of tricks or stories to make her stay with me any longer. I thought about how little I had to offer her and how much I wanted from her."

"'Books are boring.'
'Books are mirrors: you only see in them what you already have inside you,' answered Julián."

Challenge Updates

2012-01-23T17:30:00.000+01:00

Well, this week I've gotten quite behind on the blogging challenge, but I plan on making up for it later this week. I handed in my internship report, which means that once I've passed it, I'll officially be gratudating! Exciting stuff, but it has also kept me really busy, so that's why I haven't been posting as regularly. It is also the reason why I've been doing so many link loves, they are time consuming, but they're also relaxing, cause I don't need to think too much while doing them, as all the work is already done. I also really needed to clean out my list of links to share, it's now down to a more manageable 20 or so, and don't worry, there'll be a new one coming out either tomorrow or Friday I think :)

As for the no sugar & gluten challenge, could be better. I've kept away from gluten, but I broke down and had a coke a few days ago, I know I know, bad Becky. But, the positive here is, I did not finish it! It tasted waaay too sweet and nasty. Bad side is, I still crave coke... it just doesn't taste right anymore :P But yeah, I've been making banana bread, hopefully I'll post a recipe later this week, cause it's really good.

Musical Monday: Oasis

2012-01-23T13:28:00.000+01:00

This week I wanted to share a song from Oasis, the British band most known for 'Wonderwall'. I used to listen to them heaps when I was 14-19 years old, so about 5-10 years ago. The song I'll be sharing today is called 'Stop Crying Your Heart Out', and I do realize it's a bit atypical for Oasis, but it was one of my favourites, cause it's really beautiful.

I also uploaded my cover of the song a few days ago, you can find the video of that beneath the original.

Lyrics:
Hold up, hold up
Don't be scared
You'll never change what's been and gone

May your smile
(May your smile)
Shine on
(Shine on)
Don't be scared
(Don't be scared)
Your destiny will keep you on

'Cause all of the stars have faded away
Just try not to worry, you'll see them some day
Take what you need and be on your way
And stop crying your heart out

Get up
(Get up)
Come on
(Come on)
Why you scared?
(I'm not scared)
You'll never change what's been and gone

'Cause all of the stars have faded away
Just try not to worry, you'll see them some day
Take what you need and be on your way
And stop crying your heart out

'Cause all of the stars have faded away
Just try not to worry, you'll see them some day
Just take what you need and be on your way
And stop crying your heart out

We're all of the stars, we're fadin' away
Just try not to worry, you'll see us some day
Just take what you need and be on your way
And stop crying your heart out

Stop crying your heart out
Stop crying your heart out
Stop crying your heart out

Link Love Inspirational Special (20/01/2012)

2012-01-20T11:52:00.005+01:00

With the new year coming, I've become so backlogged with lovely posts and articles that would normally fit under the inspirational category, so I've decided to just post them all in one post and get my long collection of links cleared up, hope you enjoy :)

Becoming the Best You.:
7 Obsessions Guaranteed to Improve Your Life - Pick The Brain

Avoid these 5 regrets by living and loving to the fullest - Marriage Gems

5 Steps to Reinvent Yourself - Tiny Buddha

10 reasons to stop being sarcastic, with action plan - Modern Mrs Darcy

How to Deal with Criticism Well: 25 Reasons to Embrace It - Tiny Buddha

7 Ways to Demonstrate True Strength - Life Hack

10 Ways to Complain Less and Be Happier - Tiny Buddha

How to Have Mental Toughness - Life Hack

How to Be Happy: 10 Timeless Principles for Lasting Happiness - Personal Excellence

Getting Through Tough Times:
40 Lessons for Finding Strength in Hard Times - Marc and Angel

Looking After Yourself:
What Unmet Expectations Mean - Tiny Buddha

A Powerful Tool for Your Happiness Arsenal: REBT - Abundance Blog

Do Your Beliefs Empower You or Limit You? - Life Hack

Lisa Ellis: Secret to Success in the New Year? Listen to Yourself - Huffington Post

3 Simple Steps to Great Self Esteem - Pick The Brain

Let Go of Fear by Stopping the Stories in Your Head - Tiny Buddha

Why Being a Perfectionist May Not Be So Perfect - Life Hack

What You Need to Give Yourself - Tiny Buddha

Goal Setting:
Kickstart New Habits with a 30-Day Challenge - Get Rich Slowly

12 Most Realistic New Year's Resolutions - 12 Most

Procrastination:
13 Strategies to Jumpstart Your Productivity - Life Hack

Look Lazy, Be Productive - Scott H Young

How to Overcome Three Common Causes of Writing Procrastination - Aliventures

Dealing With Other People:
Don't Be a Drama Queen: Friendship Lessons from Anne Shirley - Modern Mrs Darcy

9 Helpful Tips to Deal With Negative People - Life Hack

7 Reasons You Should Compliment Total Strangers - The Frisky

Misc.:
Five Lies Personal Development Gurus Like to Tell - Dumb Little Man

The Law of Attraction is a Dangerous Delusion - Life Hack

The Fear of Spending Too Much Money - Tiny Buddha

The Not-Do List: 9 Things You Need to Stop Doing - Life Hack

5 Tips for Becoming an Early Riser - Life Hack

Link Love (19/01/2012)

2012-01-19T19:35:00.001+01:00

Thought-provoking:
The Lunacy of the American Lawn - The Healthy Home Economist

Classmates Beat Girl Unconscious Over Seat on the School Bus - Jezebel

16 is not 16 is not 16: age, maturity, and drawing lines - Hugo Schwyzer

This actually happens to me... Obsessive smart phone users hear 'phantom vibrations' - Telegraph

Women Across the World:
A Victory for Saudi Women - susie's big adventure

Israeli Women Enraging Some Men by Refusing to Move to Back of the Bus - Jezebel

Female politician helps victims of violence in West Pakistan - Deutsche Welle

Abused Afghan Girl Speaks, Wants Her Horrid In-Laws Jailed - Jezebel

Court reverses veiled TV presenter ban - Al-Masry Al-Youm

World's Worst Paramedic Sexually Assaults Woman While Heading to Hospital - Jezebel

Religion:
The Bible is a Good Book, But God Didn't Write It - (A)theologies - Religion Dispatches

Discrimination Is OK if You're Religious - Feministe

Women's Issues:
Jay-Z's Mention of Beyoncé's Miscarriage Is Actually Groundbreaking - Jezebel

Why I Am Pro-Choice - Feministe

"Modern Women" and Rape - Gori Rajkumari

Women & Men's Issues:
But he's supposed to want it more! The crushing expectation of higher male desire - Hugo Schwyzer

Libidos, Assumptions, and Miscommunication - No, Seriously, What About Teh Menz?

Rape Culture: Men, Women, and Power - The Good Men Project

On Good Consent, Part One - No, Seriously, What About Teh Menz? & Part Two

I'm Mad at You Because You're an Idiot, Not Because I'm a Woman - Jezebel

Homosexual & Trans Issues:
Proposed bill in Tennessee would essentially legalize anti-LBTQ bullying - Feministing

Meet the Miss California Pageant's Lesbian Contestants - Jezebel

Racism:
Marketing 101: Ron Paul Knew and Approved His Racist Newsletters - Intercultural Talk

Health:
How "The Pill" Can Harm Your Future Child's Health - The Healthy Home Economist

What is Inflammation? - Mark's Daily Apple

Think Raw Veggies are Best? Think Again - The Healthy Home Economist

How to Live Healthy in 2012, Part 1: Your Mind - Three New Leaves

6 Little Known Signs of Adrenal Fatigue - The Healthy Home Economist

Recipes:
Chocolate Almond Coconut Bites - The Food Lovers' Primal Palate

Paleo Banana "Cream" Pie - Robb Wolf

Flourless Fudgy Brownie Bites - Paleo Parents

Mini Chocolate Coconut Cream Pies - Robb Wolf

Garling Ginger Chicken - The Food Lovers' Primal Palate

Beauty & Body Image:
Teaching Children Body Positive Habits - Daily Bloom

Every human body is distinct. And that's a GOOD thing. - Already Pretty

What's Up with the Super Skinny Demonic Pregnancy in "Breaking Dawn"? - Adios Barbie

You are the one who cares the most - Rosie Molinary

Inspirational:
40 Ways to Let Go and Feel Less Pain - Tiny Buddha

How to survive the most wonderful time of the year when it sucks - Mirabai Galashan

The Urge to Make Other People Wrong - Tiny Buddha

24 Things I've Learned in 24 Years - Three New Leaves

Peacefully Imperfect - Tiny Buddha

Four Questions that Will Help You to Stay on Track in 2012 - Positivity Blog

Avoiding the Urge to Numb Pain - Tiny Buddha

7 Secrets to Making This Year the Best Year Ever - Dumb Little Man

20 Things to Do When You're Feeling Angry with Someone - Tiny Buddha

Don't overkill your resolutions - Jon Acuff's Blog

Professional:
Twitter Hack: 5 Ways to Up Your Visible IQ - Life Hack

Why self employment makes you and breaks you - Dexterous Diva

11 Practical Ways to Stop Procrastination - Life Hack

5 Things You Must Know Before Your First Day at Work - Classy Career Girl

How to Shine in a Job Interview - Life Hack

Job Hunt Help: 7 Resume Don'ts and Do's - Bankrate

31Proven Ways to get More Comments on Your Blog - Life Hack

Relationships:
Similarities Will Help Your Future Marriage - PreEngaged

What Are You Not Getting from Your Husband? - Assume Love

How to commit to the end - Simple Marriage

What I Wish Someone Had Told Me About Marriage - DivineCaroline

How score keeping can hurt your marriage - Project Happily Ever After

Misc.:
The Secrets to a Phenomenal Hot Oil Hair Treatment: Part 1 - Creating - Crunchy Betty & Part 2 - Indulging

Homegrown Ginger - 5 Acres & A Dream

Thankful Thursday (19/01/2012)

2012-01-19T16:55:00.000+01:00

So, it's time for another Thankful Thursday! So, first to get the things that I'm less thankful for this week out of the way... My application for dispensation to begin in the 2nd Semester in New Zealand was declined, because they only want people to start in the 1st Semester, I have however been offered a new placement, for February 2013, so yeah I guess that's what's happening at the moment. I'll keep you updated with whatever changes is happening.

Also, it looks very likely that the British friend is moving back to the UK within the next couple of months, and I'm going to miss her and her daughter so very much, even though I know it's probably the best choice for her right now.

Also, the lovely lovely Kath @ My Funny Little Life has awarded me with the Liebster Blog Award. I'm so grateful to have received it, it really means a lot to me, especially coming from her, since she's such a sweetheart. Also, she had the sweetest things to say about me and my blog: "I love your keen spirit, the profound way in which you dig into a wide range of topics, and your motivation to change things for the better. I discover so many interesting things through your blog!" Thank you! Liebster means 'dearest' in German, and it's a special award for blogs with less than 200 followers. Isn't it cute?

So, I get to choose five of my favourite blogs with less than 200 followers, here's what to do if you get it (if you want):

Thank your Liebster Blog Award presenter on your blog.
Link back to the blogger who awarded you.
Pick (up to) 5 other blogs who fit within the award parameters (less than 200 followers).
Inform them that you have chosen them by leaving a comment on their blog.
Post the award on your blog (you can take it from this post).

So, the five people I'd like to give this reward to, are (and btw, it was really difficult for me to limit myself to just five):

Almost a Muslimah, whom I haven't been following for a long time, but who feels like a kindred soul, just because so many of her thoughts concerning religion and what she went through, is so similar to mine.
Susanne @ This & That because she has such an open heart, and a wonderful curious mind who's interested in people, culture and religion. Also, I'm always impressed at how many books she manages to read.
Amber @ Little Steps Home, she's just crazy about books! I mean, how on earth has she managed to read 11 books already this year? She gives the best thought-provoking commentaries to the books she reads, as well as interesting posts in general on religion and politics.
Wafa' @ My World and More, is such a wonderful, optimistic and encouraging person. An avid reader who writes wonderful posts on the topic of religion, politics and human rights issues.
Organica, who is a lovely, unconventional Muslim feminist. She's not afraid to do away with stereotypes, or talk about "sensitive" or taboo subjects. I love her bravery, honesty and her commitment to justice for all. She has wonderful posts on religion, feminism, homosexuality, human rights and much more. Also, she's a Paleo warrior, and my inspiration.

So, this week I'm thankful for:

The British friend, who has been the best support any girl could ask for in the past couple of months, letting me stay at her place every week when I've had to be in Copenhagen for work and studies. I'm so incredibly grateful.
Almost done with my bachelor! I'm handing in my internship report on Monday, and then I'm DONE! (Assuming I pass it, and my last exam, which I had last Friday). The good news is I'm really AHEAD of schedule for a change. I know! It's crazy, like I said, it's due on Monday, but I just finished writing the entire first draft, so now I just have to proof it, and fix the appendix and I'm DONE.
Self defense! I'd been wanting to take a self defense class for years, but life got in the way. Then I got thinking about it Monday, did a quick search online and realised a class was starting up yesterday, so I joined. It's a class specifically for women, which I love, and it was so much fun. I learned so much in just that one class, and I'm really excited for the next ones :) Although I must admit my upper arm and shoulder muscles are sooooo sore today.

What are you thankful for this week? Anyone else take self defense class? What are your thoughts?

Link Love (17/01/2012)

2012-01-17T18:45:00.000+01:00

Thought-provoking:
The fight goes on - The Bloggess

Women Across the Globe:
Lingerie Shops Have 14 Days to Employ Women - Saudi Gazette

Saudi Women Allowed to Vote Without Male Permission, Can't Do Much Else

French Muslim Jailed for Punching Nurse Who Removed His Wife's Burqa - Fox News

Human Barbie Puts Liposuction Voucher in 7-year-old Daughter's Christmas Stocking

Religion:
Why are imams telling us about nail polish? - Nushin Arbabzadah - Guardian.co.uk

Hope - Little Steps Home

Women's Issues:
"I Have So Much Love to Give": Young Women and Self-Flattery - Hugo Schwyzer

Yes, "Hate *Atheists*" - Geek Feminism Blog

Obama's Plan B Move Gets an F From Us - Adios Barbie

Men's Issues:
"Guilty until Proven Innocent" - Hugo Schwyzer

No right to be assumed harmless - more on men and suspicion - Hugo Schwyzer

Lust doesn't cancel our empathy: thoughts on an all-male sexuality workshop - Hugo Schwyzer

Women & Men's Issues:
If Men Had Periods: Women Would Know All About It - The Current Conscience

In Defense of Storytelling - The Good Men Project

Health:
7 Reasons You Should Eat Eggs for Breakfast - Life Hack

Top 10 Ways to Stay Healthy This Winter - Care2

4 minimum requirements for vibrant living... are you meeting them? - Simple Mom

10 Surprising Health Benefits of Cinnamon - Care2

Are You Low on Magnesium? - Wellness Mama

How leaving the toilet lid up during flushing can aid spread winter vomiting bug - Mail Online

Recipes:
Thin Mint Cookie Balls - Robb Wolf

Paleo Pizza - Paleo Diet Lifestyle

Sublime Key Lime Pie - Robb Wolf

I made these, so delicious! Dark Chocolate (Velvet) Banana Bites - Paleo Parents

(Sort of) Healthy Holiday Nog - Robb Wolf

Beauty & Body Image:
Media Matters - Rosie Molinary

Inspirational:
6 Ways to Find Composure When You Feel Panicked - Tiny Buddha

20 Ways to Be Grateful - Think Simple Now

How "Anchoring" Sways Your Decisions - Get Rich Slowly

Cultivating Patience - The Change Blog

20 Simple but Powerful Changes - Life Optimizer

5 Suggestions for Next Week - Rosie Molinary

Acupuncture and America's Biggest Martyr - Mirabai Galashan

Professional:
Negotiation Styles - DivineCaroline

Tried, Tested and True: 3 Ways to Get Writing Done - Life Hack

10 Types of Hypercorrection - Daily Writing Tips

Relationships:
10 Things to Stop Doing in Your Relationships - Life Hack

Sin Boldly: The Trap of the Emotional Affair - Hugo Schwyzer

Why Men Cheat - Project Happily Ever After

On My Anniversay: My Best Advice for a Happy Marriage - Modern Mrs Darcy

Knowing When to Walk Away from Unrequited Love - Tiny Buddha

Misc.:
12 Most Fascinating Things About Sparkling Wines - 12 Most

Musical Monday: Jebediah

2012-01-16T18:59:00.000+01:00

This week I'm portraying a slightly more "proper" rock band, the Australian band Jebediah. I've previously written about Bob Evans, which is the pseudonym for Kevin Mitchell, the singer in Jebediah's solo performances.
I adore this song, because it's so upbeat, happy, and it just puts me in a good mood. Proper rock song is what's needed at times :)
Here's a live performance from '98:

Lyrics:
Were you laughed at by your friends
And were you lost for words when everybody finally told you what they thought
You can't keep up with the trend
It makes you lose but somehow everybody always makes up in the end
Oh, was it something that I ate
Oh, didn't even touch my plate
Oh, suddenly I'm feeling great
Do you like me now
Leaving home, life was never good to me
Leaving home, I smell the morning air
Leaving home, life was never good
You can work it out we're leaving home

I could hear them through the door
As people came in laughing at the way they acted when they were alone
And an argument can start with nothing more than this
To be the light and leave you standing on your own
Oh, am I doing it again
Oh, I'm a loser now and then
Oh, and I smile at everything
Do you like me now

Leaving home, life was never good to me
Leaving home, I smell the morning air
Leaving home, life was never good
You can work it out we're leaving home

Hope I like the life I find when I leave everything behind
I hope I'm sure I've made my mind to go and leave home

Leaving home, life was never good to me
Leaving home, I smell the morning air
Leaving home, life was never good
You can work it out we're leaving home

Challenge Updates

2012-01-15T17:16:00.000+01:00

Hey all, it's been another week, so I thought it was time for another update on the challenges.

The Ultimate Blog Challenge is still going strong, I've been posting every day, so that's going good so far :) I'm hoping to keep it up for the next week, but if there's a slight lag in posts, I hope you'll forgive me, and I'll make up for it in the last week of January. The reason why there might be less posts, is because I'm finishing my internship report, which is due on Monday the 23rd. Once that's handed in, I've finished my bachelor! Assuming I've passed my exam Friday, and the internship report of course. So yeah, exciting!

The Sugar Free Challenge / Junk Free January challenge has been a bit harder. I've kept to it, but I haven't felt huge changes, and I know why. I've been travelling so much, and often, the only "allowed" stuff I've been eating has been fruit, in too big quantities and without enough fat and protein. I'm keeping a personal food journal, and I can just see my percentage of carbs / fat / protein (my aim is around 25% protein, 25% carbs and 50% fat) is just way skewed on some days, which I think is the main reason why I'm not feeling much better. Hopefully that'll change though, as my life quiets down, and I'll be more stable at home. I have lost 2kg's though, and am down to 68kg, only 2 more to go before I reach my goal :)

If you have any challenges / resolutions, how are they coming along?

The Danish Queen's 40-Year Jubilee

2012-01-14T15:21:00.001+01:00

Today, the Danish Queen, Margrethe the 2nd of Denmark, has been on the throne for 40 years. She became queen after her father, King Frederik the 9th of Denmark passed away.

Official portrait of the Queen in 1972
Rigmor Mydtskov/Scanpix

Denmark is the second oldest monarchy in the world, the eldest being Japan. The Danish monarchy has been constitutional since 1849, meaning that today, the Queen has no real political power (i.e., she cannot affect parliament, the making and enforcement of laws etc.). Technically, however, she's still the one who accepts the new cabinet after an election, but these are symbolic showings of power. Most Danes have a great love for the royal family, but Denmark has also been blessed as there has been no big scandals to really test that loyalty.

Official Portrait 2005
Photographer Steen Evald

I don't quite know where I stand, in terms of supporting the monarchy. I think both royalists and republicans (meaning people who are in favour of a republic, rather than a constitutional monarchy in this case, and not referring to the Republican Party in the US) make very good and valid points.

I am however proud of our royal family, and I think they do a great job of representing Denmark. They're a huge tourist attractions, and as long as they continue the way they have, I don't have an issue with keeping them.

Personally though, I'm very grateful I wasn't born into the royal family, the immense pressure, and never being able to control your own life, would not suit me at all.

Here's a short video CNN did, in honour of her jubilee. You can also read more about the Danish monarchy and the Danish royal family on the official website.

Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary with their children
Prince Christian, Princess Isabella, Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine
Photographer Steen Evald, 2011

Does your country have a monarchy? How do you feel about the monarchy?
Would you like to see more posts on the Danish monarchy, past and present, or is that of no interest?

Link Love (13/01/2011)

2012-01-13T13:16:00.000+01:00

Thought-provoking:
Unlearning Sexism and Other Oppressions - Muslim Reverie

On Change and Accountability - Feministe

Women Across the World:
This makes me so angry: Orthodox Israelis Spit on Whoris 8-Year-Old Girl for Going to School - Jezebel

Bangladesh man 'admits' cutting off wife's fingers - BBC News

More Moroccan women propose to men - Al Arabiya

Kuwait: Woman's car smashed for ignoring admirer - Gulf News

The perils facing Pakistani women - The National

Religion:
What is Morality? Why Bother? - Delphinian

Quranist Belief: The Myths and the Realities - Cover(ed) Girl

Women's Issues:
Gender essentialist marketing hurts young girls - Feministing

Ironing Out the Wrinkles of Wanting Plastic Surgery - Adios Barbie

"First, Last, and Security Deposit": Financial Freedom and the Courage to Say No - Hugo Schwyzer

The alpha woman in love - does your success hurt your sex life? - Mirabai Galashan

Men's Issues:
Nice Guys Part Four: Ozy Forgets Post Titles and Noah Can't Count - No, Seriously, What About Teh Menz?

Some of My Favorite People Are Moms - Role / Reboot

What's in it for men? - Hugo Schwyzer

Defining At Home Dad - Role / Reboot

Women & Men's Issues:
Liberating Loss - Role / Reboot

A few good men? New research on problems with male "allies" - Hugo Schwyzer

Yashar Ali: A Message to Women from a Man: You Are Not "Crazy" - Huffington Post

Racism:
Jesus was a Palestinian and Why it Matters - Muslim Reverie

Health:
Why Sugar Makes Us Sleepy (and Protein Wakes Us Up) - Wired

Losing 'Virginity': Olive Oil's 'Scandalous' Fraud - NPR

iVegetarian2: The Eating Disorders of Steve Jobs - Weston A Price Foundation

Biggest urban threat to your hearing? MP3 players, study finds - Yahoo! news

Too Many Holiday Treats? Give Your Body a Sugar Break - Simple Organic

Recipes:
Paleo Apple Crisp - Robb Wolf

Spunky Holiday: Nona's Chocolate Easter Eggs - Paleo Parents

Silky Maple Chocolate Fudge - The Nourishing Gourmet

Garlic and Parsley Deviled Eggs - Paleo Diet Lifestyle

Berries 'n Cream Chia Pudding - Healthful Pursuit

Beauty & Body Image:
The Courage to Accept Your Own Beauty - Tiny Buddha

The Right Way to Talk to Young Girls About Beauty - Jezebel

When the Body Betrays: Infertility and Body Image - Nourishing the Soul

Disney Show Jokes About Eating Disorders - Care2

Inspirational:
Forgiving Yourself - Think Simple Now

Thanking Your 2011 Self - Tiny Buddha

What to read when you're on the edge - Mirabai Galashan

Whatever You're Going Through, Hold On - Tiny Buddha

30 Challenges for 30 Days of Growth - Marc and Angel

Professional:
What Not to do to Get More Done - Life Hack

Seven Ways to Overcome Inertia and Get Yourself Unstuck - Abundance Blog

A Quick and Dirty Guide to Your First Guest Post - ProBlogger

Relationships:
Advice for the Bride - Happy Wives Club

The Foundation of Love: Releasing Judgments and Expectations - Tiny Buddha

12 Most Essential Principles for a Long and Happy Marriage - 12 Most

Misc.:
Natural Stain Treatment Reference Sheet - Wellness Mama

Quick Shoe Storage Tip - Already Pretty

5 Ways to Survive Christmas - Kandeej

How to Care for Wavy Hair - Small Notebook

The Two Biggest Mistakes People Make When Starting to Live Frugally - Wise Bread

Thankful Thursday (12/01/2011)

2012-01-12T15:41:00.001+01:00

The past week has been pretty busy, I have my last "proper" exam tomorrow, a 4-hour written exam in Global Strategic Management, so I've been busy studying.
I also have to hand in my internship report on the 23rd of January, but it's only graded pass or fail, so I'm not too worried about that one. The school has 3-4 weeks to grade the papers, so I'll officially have graduated some time in February.

This week I'm thankful for:

Having the British friend back home.
My guitar, playing it helps keep me sane.
Visiting my mum's aunt last weekend.
Being done with exams and finally having time to relax at the end of the month.

Also, I recorded a new cover, this time of Not As We by Alanis Morisette. I don't know if you guys want me to post it here whenever I upload a new video, or if you'll just keep updated on my YouTube page yourself?

Writer's Wednesday: Kick Me in the Traditions by Leif Panduro

2012-01-11T12:03:00.000+01:00

The actual title for this week's book review is 'Rend mig i traditionerne'. It's a Danish classic, originally published in 1958, which I had to keep reminding myself of, because honestly, I'd keep forgetting, because the mindset is so like today. This is one thing that continues to amaze me, it really is true, nothing ever changes under the sun. We are dealing with the same major issues, the same thoughts and ideas, as always. Yes, technology changes, fashion changes, work changes, housing changes etc. etc., but the feelings, the thoughts and the ideas, the problems and issues are always the same.

Okay, moving on, the official name of the book in English is 'Kick Me in the Traditions', but I feel that's too literal a translation. "Rend mig" is a more polite way of saying f you (we have nothing quite as harsh as that in Danish), so I guess it's really more like screw you. However, the way it is said, it has me as the object, rather than you, the way it is in English. This is when translating idioms and sayings can get really difficult. Personally, I'd probably translate the title more along the lines of "Screw the traditions", as I feel that's closer to the original meaning, but that's neither here nor there.

So, I read Kick me in the traditions in Danish, as I always prefer to read a book in it's original language, as long as I understand it of course. I'd love to read a couple of translations of Danish books, just to see how close they stay to the original meaning. I think I'll do a separate post soon on reading books in Danish and English, the importance of translations etc.

The book takes place in the 1950's, and is the story of the high school student Daniel, who's upper class, spoiled and very confused and unhappy. He's unhappy, he feels like he's carrying a nuclear bomb in his stomach, and that no one understands him, and he's very cross with everyone. One day he snaps, and he starts running, and then biting people in their legs - even the ones he like, especially the people he like. The authorities stop him, and get him places in a sanatorium, and this is where he's telling his story, to another deaf patient.

I liked the honesty of the novel, how refreshing it was (probably especially at the time). I don't think it would've become a classic today, because we're quite used to this kind of writing now, at least here in Denmark, but I can see why it is a classic, and how it must've just shook everything up back in the 1950's. It's a break with tradition, societal norms, and a big fat question mark and why should I bother to everything that is "normal" and "just because that's how it's always been".

If you can find an English translation, I do recommend it, it's a short read, it's entertaining, and it's refreshing.

Quotes:
(Translated by me.)

"-Lift your right hand! he said.
Hell no. No way, once you start doing, what they want, they'll make their way in and want you to do all sorts of stuff. And in the end you can't decide anything for yourself any more. I know them!"

"We came into my room, I got my clothes off and got into bed, and doctor Smith brought a needle and stuck it in my thigh. I can't stand it when people give me needles. I wanted to tell him, that he should give the needle to the others. They needed it more. But nothing came of it.
By the way, nothing ever does."

"I noticed there were bars in front of the window. They were pretty and freshly painted, but they were bars nonetheless. They are there, so you won't throw yourself out of the window with a stifled scream. Yes, society is good, like the guy with the violets said, he was in a wheelchair in Tivoli [an old amusement park in the middle of Copenhagen] - society is good. It keeps you both from living and dying."

"That's what my brother Hugo is like. He's also one of those guys who do everything for the sake of humanity. You must guard yourself against guys like that, they are dangerous.
If Hugo goes to watch "Petersen and Passer", then he does it firstly to have a good laugh, and secondly, because a good laugh makes you happy, and thirdly, because humanity must be happy. Once he really gets himself worked up, he's ready to swear, that the real reason he's going to watch "Petersen and Passer" is for the sake of humanity.
That's how it is with everything. With his ads, his clothes, his car and his opinions. They are all for the sake of the poor humanity."

"...But I didn't want to write anything after all, or maybe I couldn't, because no matter what I'd write, it would be a lie. A lie that is, because you can't write everything after all."

"I told Hugo about it afterwards. I was probably a little shaken, if you understand. But he wouldn't hear about it. He said, I must've misheard. He's so strangely narrow-minded. Once I asked him, how he'd felt about girls when he was young. He became incredibly uncomfortable and said, you didn't talk about that kind of stuff. Yes, he's strange. If you saw him, you'd immediately be fascinated by him. He's so proper, and he has such a charming smile. But there's nothing behind the smile, no humour, if you understand, it's only like like an item for sale. If, for example, you saw him, and said: - Well, how's it going old seagull? Then he'd very thoroughly explain to you, that he is not a seagull. You see, a seagull is a bird, and he isn't. He only has two things on his mind, the future and the revenue. To be honest, I think both are rather boring."

"I don't know, when you first realize that you are lonely. What I mean is, lonely deep inside. Of course you can be with lots of people, but you are still lonely. You can tell other people, how you feel, and they can tell you, how they feel, but it will never become more than words. No matter how well you know each other, you can never get closer than the words. Of course you can touch each other or bite each other, but that's another kind of words."

"...Yes, to be honest I love them. And then I'm such a nice and polite guy who thinks, I should be like them. There's some submission there. And such a guy, who submits, becomes really angry inside. He might kick someone in the ass. And if he doesn't dare to, then he might run away. He's even so nice and polite, he won't acknowledge, why he's running. He just does it, and says, there's something strange about his legs. No Sir, legs like that aren't so stupid after all."

We Teach Life, Sir

2012-01-10T21:08:00.001+01:00

I just had to share this powerful video with you.

I don't know how you feel about Palestine, and those issues, I do hope, that if you are reading this blog, you do at least care about the human tragedies that are the result of this conflict. Either way, I hope you'll watch the video, listen to the words. I dare you to not be affected.

I had tears in my eyes as I watched and listened to this.

If you want to know more about the Palestinian conflict, I suggest you read some of the articles by Amira Hass, she's an Israeli journalist who has lived in Gaza for a number of years. Her writing has greatly affected my views (I grew up in a very pro-Israel family, as I got older I became more 50-50, and I'm mostly pro-Palestine these days, although I don't think it's a black and white issue at all).

Today, my body was a TV'd massacre.
Today, my body was a TV'd massacre that had to fit into sound-bites and word limits.
Today, my body was a TV'd massacre that had to fit into sound-bites and word limits filled enough with statistics to counter measured response.
And I perfected my English and I learned my UN resolutions.
But still, he asked me, Ms. Ziadah, don't you think that everything would be resolved if you would just stop teaching so much hatred to your children?
Pause.
I look inside of me for strength to be patient but patience is not at the tip of my tongue as the bombs drop over Gaza.
Patience has just escaped me.
Pause. Smile.
We teach life, sir.
Rafeef, remember to smile.
Pause.
We teach life, sir.
We Palestinians teach life after they have occupied the last sky.
We teach life after they have built their settlements and apartheid walls, after the last skies.
We teach life, sir.
But today, my body was a TV'd massacre made to fit into sound-bites and word limits.
And just give us a story, a human story.
You see, this is not political.
We just want to tell people about you and your people so give us a human story.
Don't mention that word "apartheid" and "occupation".
This is not political.
You have to help me as a journalist to help you tell your story which is not a political story.
Today, my body was a TV'd massacre.
How about you give us a story of a woman in Gaza who needs medication?
How about you?
Do you have enough bone-broken limbs to cover the sun?
Hand me over your dead and give me the list of their names in one thousand two hundred word limits.
Today, my body was a TV'd massacre that had to fit into sound-bites and word limits and move those that are desensitized to terrorist blood.
But they felt sorry.
They felt sorry for the cattle over Gaza.
So, I give them UN resolutions and statistics and we condemn and we deplore and we reject.
And these are not two equal sides: occupier and occupied.
And a hundred dead, two hundred dead, and a thousand dead.
And between that, war crime and massacre, I vent out words and smile "not exotic", "not terrorist".
And I recount, I recount a hundred dead, a thousand dead.
Is anyone out there?
Will anyone listen?
I wish I could wail over their bodies.
I wish I could just run barefoot in every refugee camp and hold every child, cover their ears so they wouldn't have to hear the sound of bombing for the rest of their life the way I do.
Today, my body was a TV'd massacre
And let me just tell you, there's nothing your UN resolutions have ever done about this.
And no sound-bite, no sound-bite I come up with, no matter how good my English gets, no sound-bite, no sound-bite, no sound-bite, no sound-bite will bring them back to life.
No sound-bite will fix this.
We teach life, sir.
We teach life, sir.
We Palestinians wake up every morning to teach the rest of the world life, sir.

Musical Monday: Damien Rice

2012-01-09T20:05:00.000+01:00

It's been a while since I shared a song by Damien Rice, who, as I've mentioned before, is one of my favourite singer-songwriters. I really wish he'd bring out a new album, though there's a good chance I'd be horribly disappointed, since he has a lot to live up to. But yeah, I just love his soft voice, guitars, beautiful and haunting lyrics.

The song I'll be sharing tonight is no exception, Delicate:

Lyrics:
We might kiss when we are alone
When nobody's watching
We might take it home
We might make out when nobody's there
It's not that we're scared
It's just that it's delicate

So why'd you fill my sorrows
With the words you've borrowed
From the only place you've known
And why'd ya sing Hallelujah
If it means nothing to you
Why'd you sing with me at all?

We might live like never before
When there's nothing to give
Well how can we ask for more
We might make love in some sacred place
The look on your face is delicate

So why'd you fill my sorrow
With the words you've borrowed
From the only place that you've known
And why'd you sing Hallelujah
If it means nothing to you
Why'd you sing with me at all?

And why'd you fill my sorrows
With the words you've borrowed
From the only place that you've known
Why'd you sing Hallelujah
If it means nothing to you
Why'd you sing with me at all?

Edwardian Farm

2012-01-08T16:08:00.000+01:00

So earlier in the week, I wrote a review of the book Victorian Farm, which included a link to the documentary series filmed by BBC, which the book is based upon. I have now finished watching the series, and I must say it's really enjoyable. Whether you'd like to watch it in addition to reading the book, or instead of reading the book, I greatly recommend it.

Whilst watching it, I also discovered that after finishing the Victorian Farm, Ruth Goodman, Alex Langlands and Peter Ginn go on to spend a year living on an Edwardian Farm (the Edwardian time period being from just after the turn of the century until World War I). This year was also recorded by BBC in an even longer documentary series (twelve episodes instead of six), which can also be watched for free here. I've just started watching it, and I'm enjoying it just as much thus far.

Apparently it has also been turned into a book, but for the moment, it doesn't look like my library has it, so I probably won't be reading it any time soon.

Challenge Updates

2012-01-07T21:24:00.001+01:00

Hey, so I thought it might be time to update you all on my challenges this month.

As for the blogging challenge, I'm right on schedule for that :) Following the rules, I don't need to publish one blog post every day, as long as I have 31 of at least 100 words at the end of the month. I do aim to publish every day though, but sometimes life gets in the way.

In terms of the paleo/primal challenge, it could be better, but it could also be a lot worse.

We visited my mum's aunt today, and she shows her love through food. Specifically old traditional gluten-y Danish food and lots and lots of sugar. I thought by eating a slice of the traditional rye bread, that wouldn't be too bad as it's sour dough, and rye not wheat. Well, I was wrong, I felt so sick and nauseous, and ended up having to lie down and sleep for 2 hours. I'll be prolonging my gluten-free time until the 7th of February now :)

When that is said however, I am also proud of myself, because I did not drink any coke, or artificially sweetened soft drinks, try any of the 3 different kinds of dessert (including one of my favourites), have any chocolates, or candy, or anything like that. So I think I did well :) I did have dessert however, some fresh fruit with lots of whipped cream. Delicious.

It's been a tough first week though, I've felt so incredibly drained for energy, and at times I've struggled with mood swings and especially feeling very very fragile and on the edge of tears for no obvious reason. And I've been so so tired, sleeping lots of hours and still struggling to get up. I've been told it's normal, but I really hope it passes soon, because it's not fun.

My Mum also pointed out, that not only am I changing my diet, which my body has to get used to, but emotionally I'm also dealing with a lot, all the New Zealand stuff, exams, travelling back and forth to Copenhagen twice a week (3-4 hours each way). I do have a lot going on, so I guess it's only natural that I'm more exhausted than usual. And btw, I do make sure I get enough sleep, 7-9 hours and sometimes even 10 these days.

Who else has challenges/resolutions things going on? How are they going for you? Do you find it hard or easy?

If anyone has shifted to a paleo/primal diet or avoided sugar & gluten for a while, how long did it take for your body to adjust? Did you go through a similar period of time where you just felt crap?