Debbie Stevens/Author

Her name was Tammy

2024-12-19T13:08:00.000+11:00

It's that time of year once more, and for myself and immediate family, it will be a time of sad reflection.

It was only 2 months ago that bad news came calling, totally unforseen, and throwing my family into a state of shock and deep sorrow. It's only today I feel I'm in a place where I'm comfortable enough to write about it, and be that Christmas is upon us, chose now, to share.

The act of suicide is a tragic end to someone's life with devastating effects on those they've left behind. Those closest to the person are left with heartache and many questions....questions that only add to the grief. Why?What drives someone to the point they no longer feel they want to be here? Too often, it's because that individual was living with depression, an illness which can lead the individual down some very dark roads and ultimately bring about even darker thoughts. Sadly, this illness had been tormenting my sweet niece for many years and though I didn't completely understand Depression, I soon learned of it's consequences.

Her name was Tammy, and though we weren't blood-related we were family, through marriage, friends, by choice. Our friendship had grown stronger over the last couple of years and much of this because we shared a common thread, both mothers to an estranged child, both wanting a resolution to the heartache. For me, time had clocked up more than twenty years of separation from my daughter and whilst it's been an ongoing cruel battle for me, could now see dear Tammy experiencing much the same after her youngest boy decided to run away from home.This was bound to have had a detrimental effect on her current state of mind and it did! We would spend hours via phone calls, both desperate to locate his whereabouts; finding him, but then learning he'd been staying with a woman who had in fact been grooming him all the while! The search was now focused on chasing up legal support for Tam, and this in itself another battle!

12 months on, we were still no closer to bringing her boy home and he was now at the age where Tammy had even less parental power, so the situation now dire and so too her mental health!

My partner and I did all that we physically/emotionally could do to help, helping her relocate to a new address whilst NDIS stepped in to provide her with some ongoing support, and for a little while it looked like there was some light on her horizon! Christmas had arrived and for the first time in her life, Tammy bought herself a Christmas tree, enlisting the help of her eldest son and girlfriend in the decorating, then sharing the finished project with me! I was so happy for her and felt confident things were on the up and up and even made plans for another trip back up to spend time with her!

But sadly, it was all short-lived and unbeknownst to me, all the while those dam dark thoughts had already taken full control. Our darling Tammy had finally succumbed to them and for her, suicide was her only way out.

With only days leading up to her 55th birthday, we bid Tammy a heartfelt farewell on the 4th October, 2024.

So this Christmas, I decided to dedicate to her memory, as that is all we have left to hold onto now. Tammy's struggles with depression took her from us but now her spirit runs free.

Merry 'heavenly' Christmas dear girl❤️

30/10/1969 - 30/09/2024

Feel Teal Twibbon

2016-10-15T15:30:00.001+11:00

Everyone knows about the colour PINK and Breast Cancer, the campaigning to promote their Pink Ribbon obviously a huge success....but now its OUR turn!
The Feel Teal Club is inviting everyone interested in promoting the colour TEAL for Ovarian Cancer, to join the FEEL TEAL Campaign. All you have to do is upload the TEAL Twibbon to your Twitter profile, or choose from a selection of TEAL Facebook covers....that's it!
http://twibbon.com/Support/feel-teal

Currently there are no tests effective enough for a population based screening program for ovarian cancer.

In addition, there is no evidence to suggest that screening will reduce the number of deaths from ovarian cancer.

Symptoms that may indicate ovarian cancer are vague and may include one or more of the following:

abdominal bloating
difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
frequent or urgent urination
back, abdominal or pelvic pain
constipation
menstrual irregularities
fatigue
indigestion
pain during sexual intercourse.

These symptoms are often related to more common, less serious health
problems and most women will have these symptoms at some time. However,
if you notice any unusual changes or these symptoms persist, visit your
doctor.

Remember, if you have any concerns or questions, please contact your doctor.

open access - May 2014: Ovarian Cancer (Cancer Network) Ovarian Cancer and Us OVARIAN CANCER and US Ovarian Cancer and Us

2014-11-15T14:47:00.001+11:00

open access - May 2014: Ovarian Cancer (Cancer Network) Ovarian Cancer and Us OVARIAN CANCER and US Ovarian Cancer and Us

It's Always Something... - FEEL TEAL CLUB

2012-10-09T16:15:00.001+11:00

It's Always Something... - FEEL TEAL CLUB
with comedian/titan, Shelly Ryan

Passing the teal buzz around

2012-09-02T17:17:00.003+10:00

Teal buzz!

Sep. 2nd, 2012 at 2:47 PM

There's a real TEAL buzz in the air and it's all because of ovarian cancer!
This month,across the United States, people are making noise to raise further awareness and attention to this gynaecological cancer, and with very good reason. You see, unlike that of Breast & Cervical cancer, Ovarian cancer still has no guaranteed way of detecting the disease, not unless some of its symptoms have been clearly identified. The problem here is during early stages of ovarain cancer, many women go undiagnosed simply because there were NO symptoms, a very common and quite frustrating problem for both patient and doctor. With this being the case, far too many women advance into the later stages of the disease, an extrememly dangerous situation! The later the stage, the lower the percentage of survial rate.
I have personally experienced this cruel disease, losing my mother only 4 months after her original diagnosis. In the years following, I devoted my time (and much of my life) to spreading the crucial facts about this disease,in an effort to prevent others the heartache associated with a late diagnosis. If caught early enough, ovarian cancer is curable with the right treatment. Sharing the symptoms, has become the ONLY guide in fighting this cancer, and this is why women everywhere join forces, reaching out to tell others the importance of "awareness"and encouraging them to share the information.
It is my hope that this post will be received the same way, and from it perhaps many more will become well informed and proactive within their own communitites.There are more and more ovarian cancer websites/blogs popping-up, providing details of news & events, especially during their respective "Awareness Months".
Why "teal"?
It is the colour which represents Ovarian cancer and you are sure to be seeing much more of this colour as the message FEEL TEAL continues to spread!

What it is

Ovarian cancer is a disease in which some cells of the ovary undergo changes and develop into cancer. Cancer can develop in one or both of the ovaries and can sometimes spread more widely. More than 1200 Australian women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer every year.

There are four types:

Epithelial ovarian cancer: Affects the outer cells of the ovary - the epithelium. The most common type of ovarian cancer evident in nine out of 10 cases.
Germ cell ovarian cancer: An uncommon form. Forms in the cells in the ovary that make the eggs and usually affect younger women.
Sex-cord stromal cell ovarian cancer: An uncommon form. Occurs in the cells which release the female hormones and can affect women of any age.
Borderline tumours: A group of epithelial tumours. A less aggressive ovarian cancer.

Both germ cell and sex-chord stromal cell ovarian cancers are curable. If they only affect one ovary, women may still fall pregnant after treatment.

A lack of symptoms during the early stages of ovarian cancer makes it difficult to diagnose. Two of the most common symptoms of abdominal pain and bloating can be confused with many other health issues. Other symptoms include:

Loss of appetite
Unexplained weight gain
Changes in bowel or bladder habits
Feeling tired
Pain during sex
Vaginal bleeding

The cause of ovarian cancer is still unknown but risk factors for women include:

Living in a developed country.
Having been through menopause.
Having few or children.
Starting periods early and going through menopause late
Being overweight.
Smoking.
Endometriosis.
A family history of cancer.
Inheriting genes called BRCA1 and BRCA2.
Ovarian cancer may be less common in women who have:
Had children.
Taken the contraceptive pill.
Breast-fed children.

To diagnose ovarian cancer a doctor will discuss your symptoms and medical history. Other tests include:

Physical examination of the lower abdomen and pelvis.
Blood tests – to test for the protein CA 125 that can be high in ovarian cancer.
Ultrasounds and other imaging tests.
Surgery – the only definitive way to find out if you have ovarian cancer.

Treatment depends on the type of ovarian cancer and where it has spread. For most women, the ovaries, fallopian tubes, womb, omentum and nearby lymph nodes will need to be removed. Sometimes parts of the appendix and bowel will also have to be taken.

Chemotherapy uses medicine to kill cancer cells and is almost always necessary after surgery. It causes side effects.

Radiotherapy uses radiation to kill cancer cells but is only used occasionally. It also has side effects.
Who it affects

Any woman can develop cancer but a family history of the cancer or other factors (see 'causes' above) can increase your risk. The median age for the first diagnosis is 64.
How to prevent it

There is no known cause of cancer but those at risk should let their doctor know the relevant medical or family history. Pap smear tests detect cancer of the cervix, not ovarian cancer.

Further information in Australia:

National Breast and Ovarian Cancer Centre www.nbocc.org.au (02) 9357 9400
Ovarian Cancer Australia www.ovariancancer.net.au 1300 660 334
Cancer Council Australia www.cancer.org.au 13 11 20

In the United States:

Estimated new cases and deaths from ovarian cancer in the United States in 2012:


	New cases: 22,280
	Deaths: 15,500

Epithelial ovarian cancer is the leading cause of death from gynecologic cancer in the U.S. In 2004, 25,580 new cases were diagnosed and 16,090 women died from this disease. The incidence of this cancer increases with each decade and peaks for women in their eighties. Each pregnancy reduces the ovarian cancer risk by about 10% and breast feeding and tubal ligation also appear to reduce the risk.

Further reading:
http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/ovarian/statistics/state.htm
http://www.ovarian.org/
Be sure to visit us at the FEEL TEAL CLUB where we raise awareness to ovarian cancer 7 days a week, 52 weeks a year!

Riding for Ruth

2012-03-15T16:45:00.007+11:00

Saturday, March 31, 2012

10:00am until 5:00pm

Our friend, neighbor and founder of WeFightLikeAGirl, Ruth Helton, said those dreaded words...."my cancer is back". Ruth and WeFightLikeAGirl has helped hundreds of women with ovarian cancer and raised thousands of dollars for ovarian cancer research. Ruth is undergoing chemo therapy and fighting her cancer and her husband is working....but she needs a little help with her daily bills while she continues her brave battle. Let's give Ruth our support and show her our appreciation by "Riding for Ruth" on March 31st. Visit www.wefightlikeagirl.com for information on ovarian cancer

Cuffs are cool!

2012-02-25T15:35:00.006+11:00

This post is especially for the ladies!

I don’t know about you, but I love finding new items to add to my wardrobe, especially if it is something unusual. Well, thanks to the designers from Lee’s Hope Jewelry, I have included my latest accessory and wanted to share with you!
These adorable little items, are called “cuffs”, and can be worn through all seasons with just about anything you like!
When I first heard about "cuffs", I was busy working on some updates to the Lee's Hope Jewelry page at Deliberately Debbie website. Sarah Weighknecht, (jewelry store designer) was promoting her latest collection via Facebook (where we first met) and was gracious enough to give me a personal tour!
I quickly fell in love with these unusual little numbers, and was over the moon when I received my very own!
Whether you are going formal, or just kicking about in your jeans, there's a design to match any occasion!

And like the jewelry, each design has its own unique style so you will definitely want to own more than one!

Following photo's:

My collection (Teal & Burnt Orange cuffs) followed by the latest collection available from Lee’s Hope Jewelry

"Cuffs" are definitely going to be all the rage so don't miss out, grab yours, today!
Check out the official website at www.leeshopejewelry.com and/or pop on over to the Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lees-Hope-Jewelry/100866219973725?ref=ts

NEWSFLASH>>>>>>Blow out sale on bracelet cuffs all cuffs...$12.. Those originally marked $12 now only $10 Get them while they last!

HappyTeal Year!

2012-01-14T17:46:00.002+11:00

Another year over, and a new one has begun…..so now what?

Our road trip for awareness!

Don’t let it be said there are never plans for the future, especially within the ranks of our Feel Teal Club members! It seems every time we think one event/project is complete, someone is already thinking of another…the brainstorming can be contagious, and so much fun!

The pace has seriously picked-up on our “awareness” campaigning, a weekly podcast production via the Feel Teal Talk show and the Feel Teal Club’s monthly magazine releases-the 2012 January edition just went out and is already receiving great feedback! Thank-you to all our readers!

We never want our followers to miss a beat, so here’s a couple of tips to keep you in the TEAL-LOOP!

Feel Teal Talk show has its own embeddable player….a simple code which you copy/paste onto a webpage or blog and giving you instant access to each episode! If you’d like an example of how they look, check-out our links here:

http://www.feeltealclub.com/feeling-teal.html

http://titansofteal.yolasite.com/news.php

http://debra2760.tripod.com/tokensofteal/what-s-new.html

Just visit the show’s website: http://feeltealtalk.podbean.com/ and click on Embeddable Player!

This year, apart from sharing each Feel Teal Club Magazine publication “online”, we are encouraging readers to “subscribe”….be among the first to get a copy as it hits the web-stands!

You may also like to have it embedded in a reader-friendly digital format with both Issuu.com and FreeYudu.com offering easy-to-handle codes! Here are some examples:

http://www.feeltealclub.com/news-events.html

http://titansofteal.yolasite.com/news.php

http://1stopawareness.weebly.com/

To “subscribe” follow link here:

http://issuu.com/msd23/docs/jan_mag/1

Feel Teal Club Magazine

2011-07-03T00:18:00.005+10:00

The start of another month and the beginning of another chapter in awareness....
The Feel Teal Club has launched their first magazine, complete with monthly updates from supporters, this is just one more step in their journey of raising much needed awareness for women worldwide. The July edition shares details of Ovarian cancer events with special highlights from the many contributors. Comedian Shelly Ryan takes time out (from publishing her 1st book) to share a Gilda Moment, we meet a young Australian Entrepreneur with a dream, catch up with what's happening in the music biz and news of a song to support the Feel Teal campaign...this issue is available at the following link. Be sure to download a copy and show your support for this worthy cause!
http://issuu.com/msd23/docs/mag_cover_1

http://titansofteal.yolasite.com/resources/mag_cover_1.pdf

Titan's fight for ovarian cancer

2011-04-12T02:42:00.000+10:00

OVARIAN CANCER

A gynaecological cancer that affects women & girls worldwide.

When I first learned of its existence, apart from the “fear” that comes from hearing the word

“cancer”, another emotion kicked-in.... anger! Time was against me, so trying to research

something so I could better understand was not an option, it was a necessity!

Mum had just turned 63....four weeks prior, she'd been told that all those weird symptoms she'd

mentioned were now all related to the tumour which had attached itself to her ovary.

Everything mum tried relaying to me over the phone somehow got “lost in transit” as I fumbled to

understand....another part of me had already decided we would simply have to “fight”!

But how do we fight something we know so little about?

Three months later, mum was gone...........

I have told my story in many forms; it's been published in many places, discussed in forums &

doctor's surgeries and spoken about at charity events. I write about the disease, the promise made to

my mother and the need for “awareness”, but it will never be enough until I know it has been passed

on....until we recognise ovarian cancer, the same way we recognise breast and cervical cancer.

It's not just about the colour of the ribbon, it's more a case of the right to protect the future

generations.....the right to well equip our younger females, so that they have better odds to prevent

this disease! Teach them about the “symptoms”, for until we have a better method for screening,

these are the only tools available. We teach them about menstruation, sex and all the risks

attached,so it makes perfect sense someone should teach them about this.

FEEL TEAL CLUB'S CAMPAIGN

If I was to sit and write about every reason for the need to raise “awareness”, I could publish a

journal...instead, I will leave you with the details of our current campaign....

The TITANS of TEAL consists of people raising awareness within their community/s, survivors,

supporters, family & friends....we all have the same vision, and it is represented by the colour teal.

You know to “THINK PINK”....well now it's time to “FEEL TEAL”!

Are you a titan of teal? Please send us your details so you that your wonderful contribution can be

recognised alongside others....a force like no other! We are, silent no more....

AWARENESS AFFILIATES

2010-11-23T20:13:00.000+11:00

AWARENESS AFFILIATES

The Feel Teal Club made a promise to its supporters...and we plan to keep it!

The 2010 ovarian cancer awareness campaign was launched with great anticipation, and it continues to grow....there is still NO fool-proof method for detecting this gynecological-cancer, so our women, are still at risk!
The idea that a "pap-smear" will protect you is a complete myth, this is ONLY used when identifying cervical issues....NOT the ovaries.

The Feel Teal Club works tirelessly promoting awareness so that the correct information is available to the public-
Educating is an integral part of our "awareness" campaign, always ensuring the public are well-informed means they are also well-equipped!
Our Awareness Affiliate programme plays an important role by sharing this message through our members, and their personal/business connections.
Support from Musicians/Artists, Magazine Editors, Comedians, Writers & Entrepreneurs means we are definitely in "good company"....so why not join us?

We do not ask for donations or any form of monetary contribution as our club is purely not-for-profit.
To become an Affiliate you will receive ongoing FREE promotion via the official website and all we ask in return is a link back to us!
We are doing this for women & girls worldwide and welcome any who wish to be a part of this wonderful campaign.

Thank you,
Debbie Stevens
Founder/Creator
Feel Teal Club
WHAT IS OVARIAN CANCER?

It's when the cells in the ovaries grow abnormally & the body's natural defences can't stop them.These abnormal cells form growth

WHO IS AT RISK?
Ovarian
Cancer, the second most common female reproductive system cancer, can
strike at any age, but it is most common among women just before
entering menopause (perimenopause) and then during and after menopause.
This
disease also tends to run in families, so women with first-degree
relatives (a mother or sister) who have had ovarian cancer are at higher
risk) Others at risk include women who have not had children or delayed
their first pregnancy until after age 35 and those who have had colon,
breast or endometrial cancer. The causes of Ovarian Cancer are not
known. Some factors seem to put women at a higher risk of developing
ovarian cancer. Many women who develop ovarian cancer do not have these
risk factors. At the same time many women who do have the risk factors
do not develop ovarian cancer. Other possible risk factors include long
term use of genital deodorants & other products containing talc,
& treatment with fertility drugs.

'What are the symptoms?'

Most common symptoms are:

Unexplained
weight gain; abdominal swelling and vague pelvic discomfort; change in
bowel habit ie: diarrhea or constipation; urinary changes ie: frequency
or urgency; bleeding, apart from normal monthly period; feeling of
fullness and bloating; indigestion or feeling 'sick'; tired; loss of
appetite

SEE A DOCTOR IF THESE SYMPTOMS LAST LONGER THAN 2 WEEKS!

Are you raising awareness? Do you have a Website/Blog or FaceBook page?

If you answered "yes" to any of the "above", then we want to hear from you!

The Feel Teal Club
remains committed to sharing relevant links and always happy to
promote. Constantly updating our pages to keep the public informed, the
Feel Teal Club has you covered!

"Awareness" is contagious so let's keep spreading the message.Send your emails to debbie@feeltealclub.com

http://www.deliberatelydebbie.com/awareness_affiliates.htm

The Feel Teal Club was especially designed for the general public & Artists of every industry. Worldwide, the colour TEAL was chosen to represent Ovarian cancer, though sadly, it is still yet to be widely recognised.

GET REAL.....FEEL TEAL!!

2010-11-12T21:09:00.002+11:00

Staying in touch is what builds good communication skills between people and business.
The same applies when networking...promoting, advertising and marketing, all play a considerable role if you intend to keep traffic flowing while gaining more public interest.

Raising awareness is no easy task, so, keeping all the "above" in mind is necessary if we are to succeed!
With a lot of hard work, long hours, and NO pay, we forge onwards....always working towards the same goal and for the ultimate result.....an early screening method for detecting ovarian cancer.

Awareness for ovarian cancer is growing-

More and more people are getting on-board the "awareness" phenonmenan which is great news for the cause and even better for those involved.

There's still a long way to go, especially if we are to carry the same status as that of our "Gynaecological-sister"; breast cancer.
The words "Teal" & "Awareness" are synonymous with ovarian cancer, the results evident when using the Google search engine.
For example, type in 'teal" 'awareness' 'ovarian cancer' and a Google search will deliver 51,200 results....however, type in 'pink' 'awareness' 'breast cancer', (9,690,000 result) and you see exactly what we are up against!
However, progress is being made and we owe much to the internet and the use of Social networks.
At Facebook, there's definitely signs of "change" with new "awareness" pages sprouting; new designs and logo's,and more contacts! Let's face it, it's the list of friends which we all rely on when building our awareness-pyramid............and the Feel Teal Club is no exception. We pride ourselves on cross-promotion, giving everyone an equal opportunity to share their information whilst sharing the crucial awareness message further!

The Feel Teal Club remains committed to sharing relevant links and always happy to promote. Constantly updating our pages to keep the public informed, if it's in the news, the Feel Teal Club has you covered!
Our message is still the same but with one small difference—we’re committed to raising awareness, 7 days a week, 52 weeks a year, until a diagnostic test has been found!

UPDATES.......To encourage the public interaction, a Guestbook is now operating to accept messages of support.....Stay tuned for the Club's Chat-room!

http://www.feeltealclub.com

"Awareness" is contagious so let's keep spreading the message.

FEEL TEAL CLUB - Wagatale

2010-11-03T19:42:00.000+11:00

FEEL TEAL CLUB - Wagatale

FEEL TEAL CLUB AWARENESS

2010-09-14T16:38:00.003+10:00

The Feel Teal Club was especially designed for the general public & Artists of every industry.

Worldwide, the colour TEAL was chosen to represent Ovarian cancer, though sadly, it is still yet to be widely recognised.
Globally we know to “Think Pink” for Breast cancer and there’s a constant source of funding flowing as a result-

For Ovarian cancer to achieve the same status, “Feel Teal” came into existence.

We continue to raise awareness for Ovarian cancer, 7 days a week, 52 weeks a year, with the focus on the need for an early diagnostic screening test which will save more lives of the women & girls around the globe.

As a Club, we are all contributing to a common purpose, supporting the Community, while supporting each other.
Our community-based website & forum, endeavors to serve all those who join, including FREE promotion & advertising resources for its artist members.

FTC (Feel teal club) also offers everyone equal opportunity to share their "personal stories" & "experiences" with Cancer, while enjoying the benefits of a wonderful community spirit!
We invite our members to actively participate within our safe & friendly environment making the most of all available resources.

FEEL TEAL, FOR ALL REASONS!

2009-10-16T01:44:00.003+11:00

This SEVEN TIME Grammy Award winner, producer, arranger, bassist, songwriter and co-founder of KC and the Sunshine Band brings an array of amazing artists and fresh new music to the masses in this 11-song compilation CD.
Available at http://cdbaby.com/cd/rfp

Rick Finch, has generously offered to donate 50% of sales from his latest CD, “For All Reasons”, to the GO RESEARCH FUND http://www.goresearchfund.org.au/
which in turn will help fund the need for an early detection test for ovarian cancer.

We are encouraging the public to hop ‘online’ and purchase their own copy of Rick’s album, which is available at http://cdbaby.com/cd/rfp
Also Available for download too!

The Go Research Fund, legendary Songwriter/Producer/former bass-player/co-founder of “KC & the Sunshine band”& seven-time Grammy Award winner; Rick Finch, Awareness campaigner/author; Debbie Stevens, song lyricist, poet; Lance Toohey & Australian Rock/Pop musician; Anthony Snape and our friends at Flip Side To Music, have joined forces to raise awareness & funds, for Ovarian cancer.

If you’re a musician who’s seeking more public-exposure, prepared to support our cause, we’d love to hear from you!

Please contact Debbie Stevens for further details.
debbiestevens1@optusnet.com.au

Our videos:
http://www.youtube.com/user/MsDStevens

DUE TO PUBLIC POPULARITY WITHIN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY, THIS CAMPAIGN HAS BEEN EXTENDED UNTIL DECEMBER 31ST, 2009

"FEEL TEAL FRIDAY & DANCE AGAIN"

2009-08-11T00:57:00.004+10:00

Friday, September 4th 2009 has been designated:
"Feel Teal Friday and 'Dance Again' Supporting Ovarian Cancer Awareness Day."
Rick is honored to have been asked to be this year's spokesperson for this very important cause.
Please join Debbie Stevens (creator and founder of the "Feel Teal" effort), the GO Research Fund, Rick Finch and a host of others in our joint effort to raise awareness for Ovarian Cancer.
Rick has produced a PSA and video for the cause --- check it out:

Deliberately Debbie

2009-07-10T02:40:00.000+10:00

Deliberately Debbie
Ovarian cancer event, September 4th, 2009...Rick Finch & GO research fund have come together with Debbie, to support the need for an early screening test!
"Feel teal Friday & dance again for ovarian cancer awareness &research!"

The month of May at FSM!

2009-05-19T20:56:00.000+10:00

We have all kinds of new and interesting things posted at the ezine for May so be sure to go check them out!

Latest edition includes:

All the latest interviews and articles
http://flipsidetomusic.com/

New member on staff- Linda Alexander
You can read all about her at:http://flipsidetomusic.com/about/

Dave's Media Menagerie May Picks
http://flipsidetomusic.com/daves-media-menagerie/

For a ride down the Hilarious Humor Highway go to:
http://flipsidetomusic.com/humor-highway/

And last but definitely NOT least go check out all the cool new videos by the artists at our broadcasting channel!
http://www.mogulus.com/flipsidetomusic

If your looking for a great place to hang out with artists, and other people who love music........
JOIN US at Friends of Flip Side to Music
http://flipsidetomusicfriends.ning.com/

Keep the music playing...........
Flip Side to Music

FSM INTERVIEWS-Check them out!

2009-05-07T00:22:00.000+10:00

Be sure to go check out our newest inteviews!!!!
Flip Side to Music Ezine- http://flipsidetomusic.com

Also playing videos 24/7 at our Broadcasting Studio
Flip Side to Music Broadcasting -http://www.mogulus.com/flipsidetomusic

POWER TO MY HUBBY!

2009-05-01T17:28:00.003+10:00

Have you ever had a burning desire for some justice in your life???? Been 'ripped off', lied to, given the run-around??? Well my friends, today, my hubby FINALLY took a stand against the corruption that lines the hides of our society!
Walking into the office of Fair Trading, hubby demanded his right to be heard, and was!
You see, the story goes like this....we once owned a mortgage, purchased shortly after the death of my dear mother. My father's grief led him to sell up, moving into this newly aquired house alongside myself, hub and two sons...oh, and my collie. My eldest had reached a point in his adolescence where he wanted 'space', so we located a flat not too far from us[being an epileptic was cause for concern]where we could keep an eye on him. He wasn't working at that time, so hub put his name to the lease just to secure the cheap dwelling, this meant us sharing the rent while paying off our own home. Long story short, after a terrible seizure which left my boy sporting two black eyes & a broken nose, it was time to come back home! Packed up furniture, carpets cleaned and the keys returned to the real estate, that was that. So we all thought? Fast forward three years- Our house, sold,Dad's returned to the central coast,and we'd joined the list of people 'renting' to survive. Nothing keeping us in the area, we decided to make steps back to where we originally lived, prior to the mortgage. Submitting a few unsuccessful applications, scratching our heads with dismay,hub decided to investigate.....lo & behold, someone's placed his name with TICA! But who?? And what's TICA?? TICA is a central register of tenants who have defaulted under their tenancy agreement or a history of where they have rented.But he hadn't defaulted??? Months of anguish later, hubby arrived back home today, feeling rather victorious! Knowing this was a clerical error on behalf of a real estate agency, my hubby went on a hunt for the person responsible, after all, this slight against his name was WRONG, and causing many problems for him.
Today, he took on the Lord Mayor and a few shocked-councillors, leaving them rather red-faced and gob-smacked!! After chatting with the RIGHT people, hub has regained control, the real estates stumbling for words, and justice likely to be served! Power to the people....especially when you dare to speak up!

FAME-Makes a woman think things over!

2009-02-22T19:54:00.003+11:00

Create Fake Magazine Covers with your own picture at MagMyPic.com

Yes, Debbie finally made it! [Thanks bev] This marvellous experience can also be YOURS!
Your face, on the cover of a magazine, for al the world to see. How cool is that? I'd stopped by Beverly Mahone's Blog;http://babyboomerbev.blogspot.com/2009/02/baby-boomer-diva.htm l
I came across this cool item. So easy to use and soooooooo much fun! You can purchase your own copy once you've finished, and share with all your mates. When will I, will I be famous?

H2O Fed To Aussie bear-

2009-02-11T16:30:00.005+11:00

"How much can a koala bear??" This fireman lends a loving hand...he said she/he drank 3 bottles of water!

It's not your average photo, and not an average koala bear. This gorgeous picture was shown right across all TV News channels here in Australia today, and thanks to my Victorian BBDiva,Kathie M Thomas;Author and Founder of Virtual Assistance here in OZ, I was able to share here with the rest of the world.
As we still keep a close eye on the fires, and continue to watch in horror the images generated from all various media outlets, all we can do is pray. Australians have been pulling together, doing whatever they can to help those who have fallen victim to this disaster. I was about to say 'natural disaster', but as each hour passes, we are hearing adamant word now that these fires were helped along by the hands of arsonists!
There will be charges laid when they are found, our Prime Minister speaking openly, declaring this an act of MASS MURDER, and am sure like me, many would agree!
As the search continues for people still missing, it's a very anxious and nerve-wrecking wait. Tents are lined up in various townships, making use of Football grounds as their make-shift home, to hundreds!!Donations have been pouring in from all over the Nation, and around the globe, every little bit helps. We still have fires burning, some caused from lightening strikes, and they are moving about, in and out of the bushland in Victoria's , 19 blazes still out near Yea area being fuelled by 70km winds, but firefighters are joining hands from NSW and other states to get these under control. Keep up the prayers!

Teleseminar-Parenting:What we know for sure

2009-01-15T22:26:00.008+11:00

Diva Pat Montgomery will be partnering with parent coach, Barb Desmarais for a discussion on: Parenting: What We Know For Sure
This event is FREE, so worth tuning into! It is on the 2ND FEBRUARY at 7 pm EST The link to register is http://www.teleclasscatalog.com/

Listen to Parents Rule! radio show every Thursday 2-3 pm EST on www.radiosandysprings.com

Author: Now You Know What I Know: Parenting Wisdom of a Grandmother

For further information and topics of interest, visit Pat here:

Pat Montgomery

www.parentsrulewithpat.com

www.parentsrulewithpat.blogspot.com

Will the real Dorothy Dix, please stand up!

2008-12-22T03:29:00.008+11:00

I can still hear the words of my father, "Here comes Dorothy Dix!" and yet for years, never quite understood who this character was, and why my father insisted on comparing me to her? "WHO ON EARTH IS DOROTH DIX?" I'd ask. He would never explain, but came to an understanding this mystery woman, had some mighty resemblance to me, it was always Dorothy, never any other name. As years went by, there'd be moments where I'd recollect and associate the moments this statement would be made to me. "Why you want to help so many people all the time, is beyond me...." this usually right after I would be sharing my concerns for another in need...my concerns often proceeded by news that I'd managed to find a way to assist someone, or pleading with my parents to allow some 'lost sorry old soul' into our home..."Ahhhh! Dorothy Dix!" my dad would mutter, and so I became to believe this person just must have been like me, the 'good samaratin', the one who 'had all the answers' yet had such a hard time sorting out her own life?? haha Well, after a search of Google and the helpful folk from http://www.ask.com/ I finally investigated the name, I had to know if this woman existed! Surprise surprise!! She did! Thanks to the history pages of the internet I can now identify the reasons behind my father's constant remark.

Born November 18th, 1861, as Elizabeth Meriwether Gilmer, this lady and I do share some similarities....spooky! Please read on!

At the age of twenty-four[I married at 20] she married George O. Gilmer. “Having finished school, I tucked up my hair and got married as was the tribal custom among my people,” Elizabeth said. Her marriage was not a happy one,[nor mine] but Elizabeth remained married to George, who was mentally unstable and something of a misfit, until his death in 1929. After eleven years of marriage Elizabeth suffered a nervous break down, and her family brought her to the Gulf Coast for relaxation and time away from her husband.

Here she met the owner and editor of the New Orleans Picayune newspaper, Eliza Holbrook Poitevent Nicholson, who bought a story from Elizabeth for publication in the Picayune. Soon thereafter Elizabeth was hired by Mrs. Nicholson as a reporter for the newspaper. This is how Elizabeth got started on her journalism career. Elizabeth took her work seriously, “I had a passion for newspaper work, and I set about learning my trade with the zeal of a fanatic,” she explained. Soon she was writing a weekly column for women titled “Sunday Salad,” which was followed by her most famous writings “Dorothy Dix Talks.” Readers liked her views on women, and she became a great success in a very short time.In 1901 Dix, her pseudonym, accepted an offer to work for the New York Journal, owned by William Randolph Hearst, and for whom she was asked to write “dramatic accounts tersely written in a personal style,” depicting the temperance crusaders of the day, followed by murder investigative reporting. However, she continued to write the “Dorothy Dix Talks” column which by 1908 had become a daily, prominent and widely read column. During her years in New York she published several books on relationships between husbands and wives, foibles of society, and domestic life in general. Her books were mainly collections of her column writings and became best sellers at the time they were published. Her writings were published in newspapers across the world, and she became known as the most widely read, as well as the highest paid journalist writing for newspapers. She said people told her things they wouldn’t even tell to God, she became known as the “confidante of the nation” and the “mother confessor to millions,” as she received thousands of letters each week from readers around the world.

Dix was the most widely read woman writer of her times, women and men sought advice from her for over fifty years. At the peak of her popularity around 1940 her writings were printed in 273 newspapers and read by an estimated 60 million people. Her career as an investigative newspaper reporter included twenty years as one of the most widely known woman reporter of her time.
Miss Dix died of a heart problem at the age of 90. “For over fifty-five years her name appeared over the column in which she gave advice to the lovelorn and which was noted for its sympathy, common sense and realism.” She left an estate to her family of two and a half million dollars. Much hard work, diligence and smarts had made the lowly paid reporter to the best known and highest paid woman journalist in the country.

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During the years of my 1st marriage, I too had dreamed of becoming a journalist, but those aspirations never came to pass, not until later in my life where my writing took me down many new paths! Gaining more information about this woman, has placed a special place in my heart, an endearment for a lady I never knew yet have a great deal of respect for. Thanks dad!

Annotationhttp://library.apsu.edu/dix/research/guide.htm
http://library.apsu.edu/dix/dix.htm

Internet connections

2008-12-14T05:05:00.003+11:00

How are you connected to the net? Not until my recent unexpected departure had I even given this a second thought. But I am honest when saying I missed my pc more this time around, not because of work reasons, no my removal actually allowed time for me to hibernate while reflecting....then began with the curiosity, asking others [I knew had a connection] what they'd been doing online, then needing to depend on their goodwill when asking for personal favours.

Luckily I'd been distracted most times by more serious affairs, and in the end found all I could do was to accept the Lord's choices over me.

But I did try numerous methods of getting 'online', from the internet cafe; ours being under new management with better prices/hours, this something I'd never considered once-

when I first accessed this odd looking shop, I really felt like thte fish out of water, an alien! My keyboard skills still in tact just a touch rusty, so everything seemed to be going in slow motion as others came and went. Relying on instructions "Umm, excuse me Bob, but how do you get to MSN from here? Can I use your printer? How long have I been online? Are you open tomorrow?" What a pain! Yet, had it not been for Bob and his cafe, things could have been a far sight worse! Today, I rely on a new device...a wireless modem, prepaid! So, this is my entry process, what's yours?