Annie Fox!

The Last Post - update 10, with pics, music & ongoing tributes. Latest tributes: Maria Woolf & Marc Le Roux

2009-12-04T12:05:00.006+13:00

This is Peter Cresswell from the NOT PC blog here.

You know why I'm here already. Or you might have guessed.

This is the last post Anna promised we would have to make for her one day. The day we all wished would never come, but did.

Anna died on Wednesday, at 12:05pm, at the Mercy Hospice. She died peacefully with family and friends around her.

In her last days you shared your thoughts with her and for her, so many of you, on blogs all over the local blogosphere. We thank you for that.

Over the last month Anna's cancer progressed to the point where she was no longer able to blog, then no longer able to live as she would have wanted-- not even to get on with her bucket list -- until finally she is, or would have been, in constant pain, if not for the ministrations of her favourite medical bods.

At the end she had family and friends with her round the clock -- she died with people she loved and who loved her.

Who could want for more at the end?

Funeral time and location is 2pm tomorrow, Saturday, December 5th, at North Harbour Stadium’s function centre. (Carpark A.)
Come along and pay your respects to a remarkable woman.

All welcome.

(Thanks to Lindsay Perigo for the perfect musical tribute.)

UPDATE [by PC]: Thank you to everyone who came to Anna’s funeral yesterday. I’d like to think we all did her proud.

Just for the record, here’s the music Anna talked about having and (based on suggestions from family and friends) that we included in the funeral programme.

First, the call to order, a lament:

For the processional:

And for the two quiet moments:

And finally, for the recessional, the song Anna called NZ’s greatest love song:

UPDATE 2: Anna’s brother Tony, and Jacqui Knowles, Anna's classmate, put together this montage for the programme. You should be able to click on both pages to see them full-size.

UPDATE 3: Here’s the tribute from Anna’s DN’s, her darling nieces Zoe and Julia, in case you couldn’t hear what they read out on Saturday:

Roses are red, violets are blue, honey is sweet and we will miss you.

Julia: Unu was a very caring aunty with great humour and a loving personality she was a great role model and still she will be.

Unu is a variation of Anna. It will take time to get used to her not being around. And I guess that will apply for everyone.

Zoe: With Unu we had some great times. Today we have just listed a few.

Babysitting where we had some fun times.

Shopping, we had a great time getting lost in the clothes.

Watching Avatar and relaxing at the Bach.

Gymnastics she loved to watch us doing handstands and flips.

We play a lot of sport and she cheered us on enthusiastically.

She kept us in order like wiping our nose, posture, and keeping the house tidy.

When we first heard Unu had a problem with her Kidneys we thought it was okay.

Over the next few months our time at grandpa and grandma’s place were filled with stories of CT scans and injections. Unu had many opinions on things. She hated Hokey Pokey but on the other hand she loved many things like the stock market, sorbets and wished for a cat named Seizure.

J: Over the period of time that she was sick we went to the hospital for brief visits although they were short visit we knew exactly what was going on. Unu enjoyed foot and head massages. Once we turned her room into an equivalent of Bliss ( which she enjoyed as well). While we massaged her she talked to us about how she wanted to see the world and do everything possible. Eventually she would drift off and we would sneak away. She never told a lie to us. And when she said she wanted to do everything she really meant it. In the Gold Coast she went down a water slide in complete darkness, I remember her screaming at the top of her voice as she plunged through the darkness.

A: All those fun times will never be lost. We will always remember you Unu!

UPDATE 4: Fresh from cooking for the Dalai Lama, Anna’s sister-in-law YokeHar Lee pens a beautiful tribute at her blog Ramblings & Rumblings: Till we meet again -- Anna Woolf (Apri 68-Dec09).

UPDATE 5: Blogger XChequer at HomeOffice reflects on the round-the-blogosphere reaction to Anna’s death, and compares it to Princess Diana! Crikey!
Read Sod it..... Lets Get Morbid!.

UPDATE 6: Peter Cresswell’s tribute appears here at his blog.

UPDATE 7: Here’s Carol Potts’ tribute to Anna, which she delivered on Saturday:

A few words about the part of Anna’s life spent with us at The Castle.

I met Anna in 1996 at a party thrown by Lindsay Perigo. At that time my partner and I were living at the Castle & for any of you that don’t know of THE CASTLE , it’s a glorious old stately concrete structure in Epsom - built in 1867 - that was originally the family home of Josiah Firth of Firth Concrete. Today it is 7 apartments and Peter and I still reside in one of them.

Peter and I were living in The Castle, and although we started out in the servants quarters we set our sights on the apartment upstairs that has the sea views. On a good day. Though in order to move upstairs we needed to have a flatmate.

As we got to know Anna a little better, that apartment became available and fortuitously Anna was also looking for somewhere to live – and so the 3 of us moved into the gallery apartment and we danced along very happily for the next 4.5 years. Not easy to live with a couple but she allowed us to shine and I’m really grateful to her for that.

It was a sociable place to live, pretty soon became party central – that’s party central in every sense, since Anna and I were doing the admin for the Libertarianz. Most people have a lounge , y’know a cozy place to relax at the end of the day – not us. We had an office where we’d we spend many an hour composing letters which essentially were asking for money for the party and then compose gracious responses when they gave it!

These were busy, political times, where we raged and laughed, drank and laughed a lot! We loved Anna’s love of life, her can-do attitude, the devilish twinkle in her eye and her rosy cheeks after a glass of wine!

During this time Anna was working in Real Estate and soon emerged a standard pattern to Anna’s morning – one that meant we never needed an alarm clock. She’d listen to Morning Report ever morning upstairs, and invariably we’d hear her arguing with the radio as Sean Plunket announced the latest Government shenanigans. Then she’d stomp downstairs - still chuntering, mind you - and open the Houses for sale section of the Herald. Invariably there was a typo on one her ads and the paper was thrown down in disgust before she stomped off to work.

We missed these fiery displays once she moved out of The Castle, but have remained great friends and I’ll cherish my memories of Anna – she was remarkable, passionate, honest, eloquent and a beautiful friend. And one to whom I don’t lightly give my favourite tea towel!!

Carol Potts – (Anna lived at The Castle from 1996 – 2001, approximately)

UPDATE 8: This was Marc le Roux’s moving tribute to Anna:

When I hear friends and family speak of their experiences with Anna I am struck by the contrast of Anna’s multi-dimensional character. My experiences were formed in the trenches of the market….. and you want an Anna next to you when you are in the trenches. I’d like to take a few moments to give you a glimpse of the Anna I know.

Anna and I have been friends, trading and business partners for the last 13 or so years.

"It was by chance we met . . . By choice we became friends."

Soon after Anna heard that I trade in the international markets she presented me with a proposal; she would do all our research for free, if I would show her how the markets work.

Soon I would find that she had all the characteristics to be an ideal trading and business partner, so much so that Anna took over the entire trading operation within 3 years.

Anna was perfectly wired for the unforgiving world of trading and investing…….. Those character traits that may have seemed harsh and uncompromising to many of you was what made Anna a world class trader.

I do mean world class – I’m not talking here about measuring against local benchmarks but by international standards. Every day she pitted her hypothesis, her vision of the world and the markets against the full spectrum of the PhD’s, quants and Wall Street insiders. And you would have one heck of a challenge to find anyone that has a track record of positive returns consistently, year after year for the last 10 years of trading. At times I quote “our” trading record – truth be told, it is Anna’s trading record. I was privileged enough to be able to hitch my name to it.

Yet, she never boasted about it….. Who of you here today had any idea ….

At one stage I asked Anna; why trading? There are but a handful of successful women in trading in the world …… because there is no BS, no smoke and mirrors, no place to hide when you get it wrong. If an option close at 5pm on Friday and you are one minute late, …. One second late… its gone. You cannot get on the phone and call the counter party and say I’m sorry “I got stuck I traffic or the internet connection was down” …. half a second has the same effect as an eon. Anna enjoyed the black and white world of trading.

In line with that Anna modified a Winston Churchill saying to read-

“The three most difficult things for a man to do are
to climb a wall leaning towards you,
to kiss a girl leaning away from you,
and trade a trend going against you.”

But it was not only in trading that we were partners, but also in property. Most people go through life, not being able to distinguish the difference between price and value, but Anna instinctively understood that and more importantly had the discipline and values required to implement that. Values that Brian and Margaret instilled…. Work ethic, discipline, patience, honesty and above all integrity.

A short recollection to illustrate; Anna did not shy away from work and as a result she was most frequently saddled with the administration of Investment-, Trading-, business- and club accounts. Some years ago, in order to make our own lives easier, it was decided to give Anna power of Attorney on all these accounts. One evening all the account holders got together to sign the documents. The solicitors had prepared all the documents, but in each case recommended that “if you give someone unfettered access to all your accounts”, then you should incorporate some safeguards, conditions and rules. Yet not one – not one person there even looked at the “safeguards” document. As one venerated partner said; “Integrity has no need for rules.”

Some people work to enrich themselves, others to define themselves, Anna truly did it because she loved it. She had found her vocation…… her niche in the world. This provided her with the freedom to read, learn, travel, and help many other friend a step or 2 closer to their own goals.

During one of our scouting expeditions I asked Anna, what is still outstanding?..... was there anything else we needed to implement or do. What advice do you want to give…. Just this advice from Baz Luhrmann, she said, ‘Everybody's Free.’

So, on Anna’s behalf I dispense that now…..

Enjoy the power and beauty of your youth; oh never mind; you will not understand the power and beauty of your youth until they have faded.

But trust me, in 20 years you’ll look back at photos of yourself and recall in a way you can’t grasp now how much possibility lay before you and how fabulous you really looked.

You’re not as fat as you imagine.

Don’t worry about the future; or worry, but know that worrying is as effective as trying to solve an algebra equation by chewing bubblegum.

The real troubles in your life are apt to be things that never crossed your worried mind; the kind that blindside you at 4pm on some idle Tuesday.

Do one thing everyday that scares you.

Sing.

Don’t be reckless with other people’s hearts,

Don’t put up with people who are reckless with yours.

Floss.

Don’t waste your time on jealousy; sometimes you’re ahead, sometimes you’re behind. The race is long, and in the end, it’s only with yourself.

Remember the compliments you receive, forget the insults; if you succeed in doing this, tell me how.

Keep your old love letters; throw away your old bank statements.

Stretch.

Don’t feel guilty if you don’t know what you want to do with your life - the most interesting people I know didn’t know at 22 what they wanted to do with their lives; some of the most interesting 40 year olds I know, still don’t.

Enjoy your body, use it every way you can. Don’t be afraid of it, or what other people think of it, it’s the greatest instrument you’ll ever own.

Read the directions, even if you don’t follow them.

Get to know your parents; you never know when they’ll be gone for good.

Be nice to your siblings; they are the best link to your past and
the people most likely to stick with you in the future.

Travel.

Respect your elders.

Don’t mess too much with your hair, or by the time it’s 40, it will look 85.

Be careful whose advice you buy, but, be patient with those who supply it.

I would like to finish with one last item ….

A thank you…..

A thank you, on behalf of Anna….

To you all, - her friends and family.

You are indeed a remarkable group of people…..

I stand astonished when I look at this group of people,

people that were there when it was required……..

Who said; …… life is slippery here... take my hand.

Anna is lucky to have you as her friends and family……

And we…

We are lucky to know someone who it is so hard to say goodbye to.

UPDATE 9: Tribute from Maria McFadden:

Dear friend,

You have been in my life as long as I can remember and will be in my thoughts and heart forever. My love to you and to your very dear family who likewise feature in special memories throughout my life and who are right now very much in my thoughts. Love from me - and from both my boys, who so utterly adored you.

Maria McFadden

NB: Due to time constraints, not all the tributes were able to be read at the funeral.

Please do feel free to post your tribute in the comments section, below, and we will post them here on the front page.

UPDATE 10: Here’s the beautiful tribute Anna’s sister Maria gave at the funeral:

While death is never pleasant it is part of the natural process.

We’re born, we grow up, we grow old and then we die

However the death of a younger person breaks this natural pattern

Parents shouldn’t out-live their children, young people don’t expect to lose their siblings or friends.

When death has come after an illness like cancer, as with Anna, there is a sense of relief that her suffering is over--but this doesn’t lessen the grief for the Woolf and Robins families and her many friends and colleagues that have turned out today.

When a life is cut short we have not only lost what we had with them, but also the hopes and aspirations for their future.

Anna bravely looked death in the face, did all the paperwork, closed bank accounts, gave away clothes, dotted all the is, crossed all the ts and then lived another year. Her strength and courage was a source of amazement to me and no doubt everyone that visited her and read her blog detailing her treatment over the last couple of years

She created a bloggers’ evening at Galbraith for the first Thursday of each month, a legacy I hope continues as it did last Thursday night.

But the most valuable legacy she has given us was to encourage greater appreciation and enjoyment of life. Something which is going to be difficult in the coming months . . .

Bucket List

2009-11-04T15:22:00.006+13:00

I was asked what was on my Bucket List the other day and I said I really didn't have a list. But on thinking about it further, I realise I do have a list, which basically amounts to the table of contents of the Metro 2009 Restaurant Guide - Auckland's 50 Best Restaurants.

For the past year I have sacrificed my waistline (blaming it all on the steroids) and made a concerted effort to visit all 50 of these fine eateries. I like to think that I single-handedly prop-up the fine dining sector, but I can assure you, Aucklanders seems to be eating their way out of the recession - restaurants always full and always merry. Bookings are still hard to come by - no Friday or Saturday nights bookings at my next target, Merediths, until 2010.

This week I knocked off two more:

Pure: we bundled over to Jervois Road for a most perfect night celebrating flatties birthday - we heard that they did a lime brulee and just had to be there. Wonderful wine, food, service and most importantly company. Highly recommended.

Cibo: with friends up from the mainland I thought Cibo should be the next target. Strangely I had never managed to get myself to Cibo and it's been around forever - 10 years? What a great night we had - once again we were the last to leave (twice in one month!). I have to say everything was perfect - just like Pure - and the service was totally amazing and again the company made for a perfect night. As a treat they gave us passion fruit marshmallows to roast over the pond fire - yummy!

I think now I only have nine restaurants left on my Bucket List. Once completed I'll visit my favourites all over again.

Bloggers Bar Bash

2009-11-03T13:11:00.005+13:00

Bloggers Bar Bash is on again this advancing Thursday night (5th) at Galbraiths - 6.30pm onwards.

Last month a great night was had by all - although there was one that left rather abruptly - what was that about? I managed to stay until closing time - which quite frankly was weird.

Cactus Kate popped in for a surprise visit and we had David Farrar the month before. All these celebrity bloggers - who will be next?

We are also starting to get interest from the non-political bloggers, which is great - all welcome.

See you there.

How profound

2009-10-27T12:47:00.014+13:00

You know those little things in life that just frustrate the hell out of you. Those little irritations that make you wonder if you're really might have a mental illness for finding it so annoying, until you speak to others and find the same frustration has been brewing within them too.

Lately it's the pure lack of absorbency of 90% of the teatowels on the market - they are frankly quite waterproof (although I'm sure the ones pictured work a-okay). Yes I can see that this might sound like the rantings of a brain tumour patient, but this illustrates a long line of business incompetence and shocking productivity. From the manufacturer who obviously doesn't use the product, to the wholesaler who doesn't use the product to the retailer who doesn't use the product. Hours of manpower wasted, tonnes of materials wasted, shipping tonnage wasted ... all this activity for nought. They could have done the truly productive thing and shipped me Tanquery Gin instead.

Before anyone jumps on and says one needs to wash the teatowels before they are used, I'm up with the play here and can assure you that this practice is adhered to - in fact I wash them up to 10 times - but to no avail. I'm not sure what is deemed an acceptable number of wash times at the Teatowel Absorbency Commission, but 10 sounds excessive. Anyway at this point the teatowel is fired on the spot and lives out its short life as a useless welfare rag, just taking up space and contributing nothing. Eventually one of us uses it to wipe up some vile thing or other and it is sent on its merry way to the landfill - good riddance!

Anyway, I'm one of those people that dreams most every night and remembers it most every morning. My mind just throws together a strange mix of characters and thoughts into a weird - but not too often disturbing - tale. The other night I had a dream where I was making a speech (yes that bit was weird) proclaiming that the best ever possible gift, the gift that truly shows ones love and the gift that proclaims the highest respect, was the gift of your own rare and valuable pre-loved absorbent teatowels. How's that for profound?

Tune in tomorrow for the outrageous concept: politicians are just a bunch of arse!

The fact that there hasn't been one assassination on these 'troughers' probably says more about the tolerance of the Kiwiman or his stupidity. Mind you just about everyone are 'troughers' now days, and the rest are too busy working trying to keep this country afloat - hey, good luck with that one.

Mind you the fact that no one tried to burn down Mark Bryers (Blue Chip) house or at least give him a jolly good smack around the head, totally mystifies me too.

PS: You even need to wash Chux dishcloths now to get them working - what's with that.

Various

2009-10-20T21:09:00.010+13:00

God this blog has taken me five days to put together and is still a load of bollocks.

Sunday: Wanted to head out for a nice meal, so we checked all over the place, nothing much open. But Non-Solo Pizza was and is a good as ever - great night.

Monday: Em took myself and Em's parents up to Whangarei to check out some LabraDoodle puppies - very, very cute - would love to have one - but no.

On the way up we thought we would do our public service and review the Skyline Cafe at the top of the Brynderwyns for you. This cafe has always been an absolute dog, but every five years or so someone needs to put their life on the line and actually eat there - just in case a new owner with business brains takes over.

Well I'm sorry to say that this hasn't happened and the place has slipped down even further, if that is at all possible. Every aspect of the place is appalling: food, decor, hygiene, toilets, furniture and service - totally unbelievable. The outlook is the only aspect that is amazing - it's such a shame - fantastic location.

Monday night: So headed back home to the lazyboy to rest up. Unfortunately the pain in my shoulder went into overdrive, once again I woke poor Em and the ambulance was called. No laughing gas this time, but they helped me with my medication and stayed with me until the pain was under control - ambo team once again the heros.

Knowing how to control the pain when it gets to that level is reassuring. Hospice have switched the daily pain medication back to Methadone from Codeine and I am comfortable again.

Wednesday: Another visit to the lawyer to have a document signed for the bloody council - I'm not going into details as it winds me up so much. Anyway had lunch at the O'Connel Street Bristrol, so that made up for it - talk about the extreme of Brynderwyns - fantastic food, service and wine.

Thursday: Went to daystay for another bout of chemo and then dinner down the road at a friends place - all good.

Labour weekend: Off up to the bach for the weekend with the family. Neck pain seems to have moved along somewhat - fingers crossed.

Summary: Well wasn't that an exciting week :o/

Bad Film Warning

2009-10-16T15:24:00.006+13:00

Samson & Deliliah is currently playing at Rialto, which I just viewed this afternoon and felt an urgent need to rush home and give a strong health warning. Here is the film teaser:

Samson and Delilah’s world is small - an isolated community in the Central Australian desert. When tragedy strikes they turn their backs on home and embark on a journey of survival. Lost, unwanted and alone they discover that life isn’t always fair, but love never judges.

Rating: R16 - Violence & Drug Use, 101 mins
Genre: Drama

Oh my god it was torture - poking my eye out would be preferable - it ends a run of great films. There was no journey of survival, just misery played out so slowly I shut my eyes shut for most of the 101 minutes (100 minutes too long). The Violence & Drug Use was boring and Drama it most certainly wasn't. Peter Calder gave it a 4-star rating - I'll never trust his reviews again - he must have been drunk.

I'm sure there are plenty of art fart academics that rate it highly, but only because it is an Aboriginal politically correct topic. I'm sure the poor Aussie taxpayer fronted up for this rubbish.

Slow crap films like this most certainly make it on to my "dying young has a plus side" list.

You have been warned.

Slacker

2009-10-15T21:12:00.009+13:00

Well I've been told I've been rather slack lately and need to whacked out blogs more regularly, I don't really have much to talk about, but here are some things I've got up to:

Movie: Down the road we are lucky to have our local Capitol Cinema that has recently undergone a renovation by the owner of the Lido. So on Monday we headed off to see In the Loop a brilliant political satire. It is a scriptwriters dream movie and I found myself rather tired at the end due to concentrating on the script delivered by a great team of actors. Rating 4/5 - highly recommended - lots of laughs. Negative - no fruit icecream only sweet chocolate stuff - yuck.

Sleeping: Neck pain has been increasing over the last week, so sleep has been somewhat shallow - thus I've been sleeping in rather late. Lazyboy is about to be delivered, which will mean I can sleep sitting up which will help massively.

Treatment: WBC was good enough for a lumber puncher chemo on Tuesday which went well. Another due next Thursday, hopefully this will reduce the pain and lump in the neck.

So sorry not much to report. I'll leave you with the thoughts of others:
Not PJ: Too Big Not To Fail
Cactus Kate: P for Pathetic
Perigo: Key Tackles G
Whaleoil: ACC

Another Update

2009-10-07T11:31:00.008+13:00

Headed to Daystay for some chemo today, but my WBC was too low, so I was sent back home ... again. This was rather strange, as two days ago WBC was fine. We will try again next Tuesday.

Feel fine, except for a headache that is slowly getting worse each day - can't figure out why. Think that someone has been spiking my decaf flat whites so now I'm in withdrawal, or maybe it's the cold thing I'm still trying to conquer, or maybe a brain tumour - yep let's go with the dramatic one - tumour it is.

Probably just exhaustion actually - I had a rather busy week last week (Photo: Julia & I in Mt Maunganui for Organ Donation Walk), and still haven't managed to find much time to relax - off to the couch now.

Julia & brother off to Japan today for the Japanese Transplant Games - lucky, lucky.

Because I would have moaned and thrown an eppy if they hadn't done their job, I feel that I should say that Labtests got my results to the doctors as directed - problems seem to be sorted - excellent.

Update

2009-09-23T13:37:00.004+12:00

I was meant to have another dose of intrathecal chemo today, but my white blood count was too low, so no-can-do. In addition they have taken me off all the chemo tablets - except the steroids.

In addition, addition, I have started a course of antibiotics to try and fix my cold and hacking cough.

I go back in a fortnight to see if I’ve improved enough for further treatment.

But otherwise I feel just fine - although rather tired with all the coughing and poor sleep. Appetite is rather lacking, but I'm not suffering any pain and currently am not on any painkillers.

Best flags in the world

2009-09-18T13:56:00.004+12:00

Yes I'm showing off again - just had confirmation that Julia managed to set two new records in the 9-11 year olds in both the 50m sprint and long-jump.

But another reason for the photo is to show the three best flags in the world, all in one place. The maple leaf and the rising sun are beautiful symbols that the world recognise and admire. The silver fern is equally beautiful and loved by Kiwis. The most vigorous trading of uniforms at the Transplant Games was between the Canadians and New Zealanders - we appreciate good style when we see it.

My dying wish* for my country is that we dump the current flag that no-one really likes (or uses) and replace it with the Silver Fern that everyone likes and more importantly, everyone uses. It is the flag every Kiwi athlete grabs when they win, the flag every backpacker stitches to their pack, the flag the world recognises, admires and coverts. It is this recognition that will also make the transition from our confusing Ozzie-like flag incredibly easy and above all incredibly cheap (watch the trough feeders squeal about that). No PR hacks need be involved, no designers employed to come up with some ugly creation (South African flag springs to mind), and above all no need for bureaucrats, Maori and whiny white liberals to stuff it all up, because they too like the silver fern.

* I do have other wishes but it appears that the non-productive, welfare mentality is here to stay and is why this country best embrace the diary industry rather than hampering it, because that's all you've really got. All other commodities will be stuck in the ground for ever. But no need to worry about your kids, they'll find work ... overseas.

Mid-month Bloggers Bash - Update

2009-09-14T18:53:00.004+12:00

There is a impromptu mid-month Bloggers Bash at Galbraiths. David Farrar from Kiwiblog and other bloggers from Wellington are in town and want to catch up with the Auckland bloggers. Kick off is 5.30pm this Thursday the 17th.

Update: What a night - never seen so many people. Unfortunately I was rather tired so didn't last the whole evening, but glad I turned up. Thanks everyone for making the effort - great to meet you.

Labtest

2009-09-12T22:28:00.007+12:00

I know the Labtests contract was a controversial decision. Personally I could never figure out why you would replace one monopoly with another. If you truly wanted to keep costs down then surely a competitive system makes more sense. But maybe I don't understand the complexities of the situation.

Anyway, I was happy to give Labtests the benefit of the doubt, and headed off on Monday to have my first sample taken. Speed to process me was a little slow, but every business needs time to settle in, so I wasn't worried. The collection technician was a lovely lady and didn't freak out with my difficult veins - double bonus.

However, the sample was taken on Monday and needed for treatment assessment on Wednesday (I decided to give them an extra day just in case). Diagnostic Med Lab would usually have it with my Doctor that afternoon or at the latest the next morning. It's Saturday today and I still don't have results.

This means I can no longer use Labtests for my tests - one way to decrease the queues I suppose. Now I have to go in an hour early for each chemo treatment so the overworked nurses can take the sample and give it to the hospital labs. I then sit around for an hour taking up space waiting to see if chemo will be administered.

For the system to work as it should, will not just require them to double their speed, but increase it six-fold. Can't see it happening.

Sniffy update

2009-09-11T11:17:00.011+12:00

I saw the Doctor on Wednesday, to have confirmed what I was expecting, that we have kind of come to the end of any real treatment options. Can't have any more Radiation Therapy, so the tumours that remain and new ones will just be. Basically the Intrathecal and PEP-C chemo that I started this week will hopefully slow the cancer growth some and give me as much extra time as possible. On day three of the PEP-C and I seem to be tolerating it well - only slightly nauseous, only 27 days to go. The Intrathecal will probably create ulcers in my mouth, so will probably stop these weekly injections at that point.

The lovely Hospice Nurse is coming over next week to start discussing pain management and palliative care. Going to beg, borrow or steal one of the those lovely lazy boy chairs to recline on and enjoy MySky. But not at that stage yet, feeling remarkably good at the moment and look deceptively healthy. My cold has dissipated and I seem to be have the cough under control - although god my ribs hurt.

So, for the third time, I start the process of getting 'my affairs in order'. It seems no matter how much you try there's always something outstanding, but I've discovered that I just can't make it perfect.

So off to the movies this afternoon and will be ordering the works - popcorn, icecream and Snifters - damn no Snifters! My work here can never be done :o(

Update

2009-09-04T10:06:00.007+12:00

Health
Just finished my 10th Radiation Therapy this morning. See Doctor on Wednesday to discuss next treatment(s). Steriods have really kicked in now, so turning into Michelan Man again. Feeling fine.

Movie
I watched 'District 9' this week. Really it deserves an Oscar for best film and best actor - never seen anything like this before - fantastic.

She's a winner!

2009-09-02T12:37:00.010+12:00

3 Golds
1 Silver

Just like Usaine Bolt, Julia just ran down the track in an effortless style and won - very cool.

Results:
Tennis - Gold
Swimming - Silver
Running - Gold
Long jump - Gold

It was a fun time in Brisbane, nice and hot, probably a little too hot for the athletes. Great team was the NZ Transplant Team along with the supporters (see below). NZ pulled together 30 medals, 14 of them Gold.

The World Transplant Games Federation has been holding international sporting events for transplant athletes for 20 years. This shows how successful transplant surgery truly is and at the same time it raises awareness of the need to increase organ and tissue (bone marrow included) donation.

Update

2009-08-20T21:06:00.005+12:00

Rather busy week, starting with a CT scan on Tuesday to check out why I had pain around my hip. As predicted the cancer has returned to the central nervous system (CNS) and the doctors asked me to come in on Wednesday to Acute Oncology to have an MRI and discuss immediate radiation therapy. They seemed to be surprised that I only suffered some pain and hadn't lost movement in my legs.

My steroid dose was increased from 4mg to 8mg on Tuesday night and the pain went straight away. On Wednesday it was increased to 16mg. The mood swings and appetite haven't changed as yet, but I imagine it will shortly - you have been warned.

Anyway MRI results revealed a few more tumours that the CT missed, three that were touching the spine, some that aren't. So I had my first dose of radiation this arvo and will have one each day until Monday. Then (fingers crossed) I can fly to Brisbane to catch the end of the Transplant Games, returning Sunday. On my return I will be given another five doses. It was great that they were able to accommodate my trip, I have been looking forward to it for ages.

Moral Dilemma #1

2009-08-17T21:20:00.003+12:00

You have been given six months to live unless a suitable liver can be found. You are a strange blood type and five months have past - no suitable donor is found - the clock keeps ticking.

Finally in Wellington a particularly bureaucratic civil servant sticks his head too deeply into the trough, inhales and starts choking. He staggers around his sea view office and blinded by his own shortsightedness he trips over the his latest economic death legislation and tangles himself in his own red tape. An ambulance is called but he dies a slow, painful death on the way to the hospital, where they find his donor card and harvest his organs - a perfect match has been found.

Do you accept his liver?

Donate Life

2009-08-15T15:24:00.010+12:00

Next week most of the Woolf females are heading to Brisbane for the 17th World Transplant Games. There will be 24 organ transplant athletes competing for New Zealand, my niece Julia being one of them. The main aim of the games is to raise awareness of the lives saved by talented surgeons using organs donated by individuals and their families.

I've been asking my friends if they are donors, most say they are, but when I ask if they have discussed it with their family members nearly all of them say they haven't. This I found extremely odd, as I've always known of my family's wishes and I would go out of my way to make sure that these wishes were undertaken.

I know discussing death can be a difficult topic, but it is important to tell your next-of-kin of your wishes. Just because you have "donor" on your licence, doesn't mean the doctors will use your organs upon your untimely death. They will always ask the family and ultimately your wishes will be ignored if the family have a problem with organ donation.

By talking to your next-of-kin, you will give them the knowledge they need to make sure your values are upheld at a time when you most probably can't communicate and at a time of extreme stress for your family. Knowing what you wanted will reduce this stress and people will usually honour a person by carrying out their wishes.

Blood donation
Most people I know don't donate blood. This is not because they don't want to, but because they lived in the UK during the mad-cow scare and the blood donation services have decided they won't take our blood. There are of course many other reasons why people can't donate blood and so arises a shortage, but of course you all know this by now, they don't advertise for donors for the fun of it. There are a couple of reasons for non-donation that can easily be avoided by following the "harden up" rule to life:

* needle phobia - if it hurts at all, it is only for a few seconds.

* fainting - relates to the above - apply the "harden up" rule and anyway you are lying down so there's nowhere to fall.

As I'm often in the Hematology department I watch bag after bag of blood being hooked up to grateful patients every hour of the day - the blood banks are often running short. If you're not donating then just think how hypocritical you'll feel when you land up in hospital with a bag of blood attached to your arm.

Same goes for non-organ donors - they cringe at the thought of giving their organs, but if they suddenly needed an organ themselves, they'd be fighting to get to the front of the queue.

Cost of Government Day

2009-08-13T16:59:00.005+12:00

Today is the Cost of Government Day in the US. In other words:

"... the day that you stop working to pay for the total cost of government (spending plus regulation)."

If this doesn't horrify the US tax slaves, then the fact that in just one year this day has jumped - from mid-July (16th I believe) to 12 August - should make them shake in their boots - nearly a whole bloody month. Amazing!

Milton Friedman

2009-08-11T15:09:00.008+12:00

From the great Milton Friedman an Open Letter to Bill Bennett on drug legalisation.

Milton Friedman - Brilliant Economist
Bill Bennett - Bush's Drug Tzar

Hat tip: Paul Walker

Legalise ALL drugs

2009-08-10T16:55:00.005+12:00

Now I've been working on a blog for the last month in regards to ending the War on Drugs and legalising the consumption and trade of all drugs. But my ability to write is alluding me at present and sitting for more than 10 minutes is just too painful.

So here is a blog that says exactly what I think - thanks Peter.

B3 Bloggers Bar Bash

2009-08-06T12:33:00.002+12:00

Don't forget it's drinks tonight at Galbraiths for the monthly B3 Bloggers Bar Bash. See you there from 6.30pm onwards.

122 slimey MPs on the wall ...

2009-07-31T16:07:00.024+12:00

Now the politicians are trying to cut down on our drinking by making it more expensive and difficult to find, all in the name of saving us from ourselves because hell, I've made it to 41 and they know better than me - after all most of them haven't work it a productive job all their lives, but still this qualifies them to act like my Nana.

Now here's my theory why some (SOME I might add - not ALL of us) drink too much. We live in an unproductive economy, earning less than just about every significant OECD country. We are treated like a bunch of moronic, clueless children. The pathetic wages that we do manage to claw together is heavily taxed and handed to the most incredibly ungrateful bunch of beneficiaries ever. So the more money you take from us the less prosperous we are, the less fun we have, the more likely we are to drink and the more likely we are to drink cheap rubbish, which we all know makes you a horrible drunk. Russia being proof of this, in all it's depressing socialists regimes.

The more restrictions you put on substances, the stronger they become, the more they are abused. Drugs being the obvious demonstration of this problem all over the world and particularly in the US. Prohibition of alcohol early last century being another. But the mindless middle class just love trying to control the rest of us with their pious domination - its like living in society that's not run by individuals but run by the teachers union.

And don't you just love how the MPs think that we should pay more for our alcohol, of course it's not like the increase will effect their pocket given that they get us to pay for their drug high, along with holidays and living expenses.

Not PC, covers this insane proposal more eloquently and with just the right amount of profanity.

What is love worth?

2009-07-31T15:14:00.006+12:00

Jack wakes up with a huge hangover after attending his company's Christmas Party. He didn't even remember how he got home from the party. As bad as he was feeling, he wondered if he did something wrong. Jack had to force himself to open his eyes, and the first thing he saw were a couple of aspirins next to a glass of water on the side table. And, next to them, a single red rose! Jack sits up and sees his clothing in front of him, all clean and pressed. He looks around the room and sees that it is in perfect order, spotlessly clean. So is the rest of the house.

He takes the aspirins, cringes when he sees a huge black eye staring back at him in the bathroom mirror. Then he notices a note hanging on the corner of the mirror written in red with little hearts on it and a kiss mark from his wife in lipstick: "Honey, breakfast is on the stove, I left early to get groceries to make you your favorite dinner tonight. I love you, darling!

"He stumbles to the kitchen and sure enough, there is hot breakfast, steaming hot coffee and the morning newspaper. His son is also at the table, eating. Jack asks,"Son ... what happened last night?"

"Well, you came home after 3am, drunk and out of your mind. You fell over the coffee table and broke it, and then you puked in the hallway, and got that black eye when you ran into the door. "Confused, he asked his son, "So, why is everything in such perfect order and so clean? I have a rose, and breakfast is on the table waiting for me?"

His son replies, "Oh that! Mom dragged you to the bedroom, and when she tried to take your pants off, you screamed,"Leave me alone, I'm married!!"

Broken coffee table $239.99
Hot breakfast $4.20
Two aspirins $0.38
Saying the right thing, at the right time ... priceless.

Weather, weather, weather ...

2009-07-23T12:21:00.005+12:00

I was moaning about TV1's 6pm news, with the weather coverage just going on and on and on. I'm sure it must take up 15 minutes of the hour and is so dreadfully boring.

My brother mentioned that TV3 doesn't make such a meal about the weather, so that night I watch TV3 news and he was right, it was great, I think it probably only took up 5 minutes. They also didn't do those weird teasers that seem to make little sense to the actual news item - similar to those women's magazines teasers. Also missing from TV3 were the chronic spelling mistakes and strange sentences. They just seem to get on with it without all the fluff.

The week that was 'crap' - updated

2009-07-12T13:17:00.006+12:00

Well the mouth ulcers have reached epic proportions, making my face puff up and of course eating no fun at all. Add to this a head cold of runny nose and coughing I am simply rather pissed off and unhappy.

However not to give in to all this too much, Em and I headed down to Rotorua for a good long soak in the hot pools and some massage therapy - fantastic - wished we had this kind of thing on our doorstep.

Off to hospital tomorrow for the last chemo - well last one of this course anyway. Might be given platelets as well, depending on bloods and hopefully a new mouth is available also - just can't believe the ulcers just keep popping up, over and over and over again, surely at some point the mouth falls out?

Update: Final chemo was cancelled as my bloods are too low and ulcers causing concern. Happy with this as I don't think I could continue much longer in this state. Anyway my spinal fluid has been running clear for long enough we all think. Fortunately my head cold appears to be clearing now also.

Looking forward to getting back to normal soon.

Ministry of Whining Affairs - Updated

2009-07-01T13:49:00.011+12:00

I always marvel at how loyal National Party voters are to this left of central nonsense of a party. There doesn't seem to be anything the politicians do that upsets them.

Maybe this might do it (but unlikely)? Those trough guzzlers that are seeking jobs in the public service have been told of a rumour that jobs will be available at the Ministry of Women's Affairs. Apparently extra money is being sent to this abomination of a Ministry. God there really is no hope for this country.

Why feminists and lesbians support this Ministry is totally beyond me, it is just such a patronising and pathetic symbol to all woman. Why National supports it isn't really that surprising being the pro-government, legislate, legislate, legislate kind of people that they are.

It would be interesting to know the ratio of public servants to productive private jobs. It must be getting totally out of control with the number of jobs being lost in the private sector and very, very few job loses in the trough.

Update: Mark Hubbard informs me that "The number of people working in the private sector, compared to public servants and beneficiaries is something like 1.8:1.7."

Of course any halfwit can see that this is impossible to maintain, but watch them try. The only way to fix this is to abolish all unnecessary ministries, and start slashing and burning public jobs where ever possible and fast.

My suggestion? Vote with your feet and leave. Even in these economic times it's better to be on the ground where things will start happening than languishing in NZ where it never will. Such a shame, it truly has turned into a big retirement village where you come to die. If it wasn't the fact that I'm going to do just this I'd have been gone long ago.

Holey fricking moley

2009-06-30T16:41:00.007+12:00

Other patients have complained to me over the years about the sore mouth that comes with chemo. I've had some problems, but never really anything to write home about. Usually just goes away after a few rinses of salt and baking soda.

But this time it's unbelievable. Eating, drinking, swallowing, existing is so uncomfortable. I thought I was being a bit precious when I presented myself to the hospital at Monday's chemo, but you could see them physically recoil and say "we haven't seen something that bad for awhile". Nearly every part of the mouth is effected - ouch!

So I now have little sponges on lollipop sticks for toothbrushes, about three different mouthwashes and a course of Fluconazole to try and get on top of it. Don't really feel much better, but food like rice pudding and custard go down a treat - well maybe not a treat, but with less pain. So I think I should just stay home as much as I can and try and build up some kind of strength.

I have chemo on Thursday and then only Monday for three weeks. The spinal fluids are still running clear of cancer.

Update: Oh my god, then I sneezed!!!!!

My Hero

2009-06-25T12:09:00.005+12:00

Gisela Dulko knocked that screaming nightmare Maria Sharapova out of Wimbledon. The Telegraph describes this as the "Shock of the day", all I can say is Gisela you are truly a hero and should be given a knighthood for services to women's tennis.

Michelle Larcher De Brito is even bloody worse, we can only hope that she screams herself into a heart attack. Why the umpires allow this annoying mindless noise is beyond me. If I was playing against her I would have to slam my racket across the court at her. Jesus!

Updatedty Updated Update

2009-06-19T20:19:00.003+12:00

Frick what a week last week was. Just after my last posting I was watching the Ambulance program 'Rapid Response' thinking they're kind of cute, gosh my shoulder hurts bad, let's give them a call, maybe they'll come out.

Well okay it wasn't quite like that - but after an afternoon of putting down continuously different pain killers I finally admitted defeat and asked Em to call the hospital to see if I should go to Ward 62 or A&E. My screaming caused them to say phone 111, which Em duly did and the lovely ambo team turned up. Out came the laughing gas to get me under control and stop the screaming - 10 puffs later, no pain - amazing! Unfortunately this stuff only lasts a couple of minutes so it was decided that admission overnight might be a good idea just in case the pain came back. So I got to suck on the juice of angels for a good 20 minutes and was rather chatty by the time I was admitted.

After a night of no sleep (god it's noisy there, nurses just stood outside the rooms talking in daytime voices that borded on outside voices), I headed home in the morning to have a shower and back to the hospital for #2 radiation therapy. Took Methadone for the rest of the week, which seems to work the trick for me. No pain now, and radiation therapy seems to be working a treat and my dead left arm is coming back to life.

Being sick is a busy life I would have you know. Was at the hospital 10 times last week, 6 for me and 4 for my flatmate who visited A&E twice on Wednesday night with an extremely painful eye - she didn't scream like me, but was in more pain. Anyway we are all fine now and I'm enjoying a more relax treatment schedule of chemo into the spine twice a week. This should go on for a few more weeks until my spinal fluids run clear of NHL.

Updated update

2009-06-15T18:33:00.003+12:00

After a rather sleepless night I was dozing uncomfortably at 8am when the hospital phoned and said come on in for a consultation and possible treatment pronto. So bounced out of bed, into shower and stumbled into car.

So the day was spent in Acute Oncology being seen by the radiotherapists, being sized up for radiation and then my first of five treatments at the end of the day. Finish on Friday.

Rather painful now, so taken all the drugs I can take & just trying to get comfortable and waiting for 'Spooks' to start.

Update

2009-06-10T14:19:00.003+12:00

Bad news from the MRI that I had Friday last week. It shows cancer on the C3 & C4 vertebrae and a lump under my arm. All this of course explains the massive pain and discomfort I've been having in my neck and shoulder.

In the meantime I've been put on 16mg of Dexamethasone every day and this killed the pain within 4 hours of my first dose - arh bliss. I wasn't going to handle all this so well being in that amount of pain.

Also I am on Methadone which works much better in pain reduction than Pethidine and unlike the Morphine doesn't make me throw up two or three times per day - a relief to finally get on top of all this - without the horrible side effects.

Treatment is unknown at this stage, still under investigation at the hospital. Will update you as soon as I know.

Little House of Horrors (Updated)

2009-05-30T18:13:00.004+12:00

Yesterday I headed up to the bach for Queens Birthday weekend. With me came four Monarch Caterpillars to be replanted on the swan plants that are all over the property.

Replanted them in a nice sunny spot and wandered around to check out the caterpillar population on the other plants. To my delight I found a big fat juicy one, hanging by its bum, ready to turn itself into a chrysalis. Returned half-an-hour later to find it was half way thru the process. It was so amazing, the speed of the transformation is so fast, you can watch it happening. So I stood there for about 10 minutes watching the magic that is nature. He wiggled and jiggled and with great effort he shed his furry skin to reveal a green slug which was partly chrysalised. It was truly an amazing event to behold when horrors-of-horrors he fell – splat on the ground – dead instantly. I was mortified – I felt a mother losing her child – I was devastated.

No wonder the Monarch Butterfly are supposedly* struggling for survival. All that effort for nought.

* Personally I see Monarch Butterflies all over the place, so wonder about this shortage report.

Update: Look at this for horror.
Hat tip Lolly Scramble.

Media 7

2009-05-26T16:09:00.001+12:00

Watch the first 4 minutes of the latest episode of Media 7. Ha, ain't that the truth.

Fanny Adams

2009-05-25T13:02:00.003+12:00

I just spent a lovely long weekend in Nelson with my dear school mate and her hubby. Great region of New Zealand and I can list numerous wonderful places to go in the Nelson area - one of the best place is the Saturday Market.

Here I found this wonderful underwear! They are just fantastic with jeans and they don't move anywhere all day - brilliant. They come in full brief and hipsters and available online.

Nemesis goes down

2009-05-20T13:40:00.007+12:00

Back in July last year I posted about my parent's dog Boss who was making life difficult for me (and the rest of the world) when I was living at home for a period.

Well his behaviour hadn't changed one iota since and on the food/biting front, he was actually becoming worse. The lasted incident was a rather scary attack on Dad - blood was drawn, bandages were applied, doctor was sought. Dog got away with it scotfree. Don't get me wrong, he's a beautiful dog, who is lovely to be around 99% of the time. But he does manipulate the folks and doesn't know his place.

Anyway in the interests of harmony and fear that he might go at the girls one day, I decided that a Dog Whisperer (DW) was required. So on Tuesday I headed over to Mum & Dad's for a group lesson. Just like on TV Boss knew that DW was the real boss and she had control of the house instantly.

We did lots of role playing around the issues that we have with Boss and learnt what we were doing wrong and how to train him - super fun. The feeding bowl was the real problem, Dad showed DW how he feeds the dog, which meant grabbing a dog biscuit and throwing it at the bowl from a distance of about 3m - very funny.

During this lesson Boss broke into his rage and surprisingly went for DW, but more surprising, she just took her hands out of way, stood on his lead and commanded that he lay down. He kept trying to attack, but finally submitted - huge respect DW.

It was a great couple of hours, we learnt so much about how to control him and move ourselves up the pecking order. As you can imagine the easiest way was via food treats - very effective when you've got a golden retriever. Training him will be great fun, just have to make sure Dad (the big sook) doesn't let the side down.

So if you are visiting M&D, just knock on the door, give them time to arrange the dog, wait to be invited in and simply ignore Boss, don't touch, don't look him in the eye. You can say hello later, he just has to know that he is the least important thing in the room.

So Boss is no longer be my nemesis! I'll just have to find another.

BTW: I tried the training techniques back home on Foxy the cat - doesn't work!

Pain, pain go away

2009-05-20T11:38:00.005+12:00

Yes I'm still very much here, have been offline due to a painful neck & shoulder - made more painful the more horizontal I got - thus sleeping became impossible and no painkiller seemed to work for longer than a day - never a night. Physio has been helping me for the last month and GP prescribe Pethidine and the pain is now bearable and sleepable. Anyway Oncologist suggests I have an MRI to check the cancer hasn't moved into the bone. I don't think this has happened, but it will be good to know for certain.

Anyway on a more positive note, today represents one year since my grandmal brain seizure, at the time I had an expected survival time of approximately 6-months, this estimate didn't improve when the chemo failed. Brain radiation was the next treatment and that seems to have done the trick. So one year means I can now legally drive again - must say totally ridiculous law banning me for a whole year. Epileptics and even Narcoleptics are allowed to drive as long as they are on medication - I'm as likely to have a seizure as you are, and you haven't even had the reassurance of a brain CT. Making blanket restrictions on patients isn't particularly productive, surely this should be a decision of the doctor and as I have proven each time I've been treated, I've outperformed each expectation. Some people just respond to treatments better than others.

First 100 Days

2009-05-07T16:38:00.002+12:00

They once said that a black man would be President when pigs flew.

His first 100 days and - wham!! Pig's flu!

B3: Bloggers Bar Bash

2009-05-05T13:04:00.007+12:00

Don't forget it's drinks on Thursday night at Galbraiths for the monthly B3 Bloggers Bar Bash. See you there from 6.30pm onwards.

PJ: He came, we heard, he conquered

2009-05-01T12:52:00.026+12:00

I sit today in the hills of Christchurch watching the clouds sweep in and the rain fall - arh true bliss. Mind you rather cold down here - ekk not nice - but no one dies of the cold right?

Anyway I sit in a friends lounge which is probably the warmest spot known to man - fantastic. I'm visiting for a long weekend and struggling to stay awake after only four hours sleep in the last two nights - reasons?

1/ Sore neck that doesn't like it if I lay down or sit up or stand around or anything for that matter. It likes it if I go for a walk or make muesli at 3am or for reason #2 ....

2/ Up at 4.30am to catch the red-eye to Christchurch - what was I thinking? I must be mad, particularly as I knew I would be out late (1am) with reason #3 ....

3/ Late night with PJ O'Rourke - thanks to the CIS team, wonderfully organised.

Mr O'Rourke didn't fail to amuse all, he really is the most entertaining and long serving satirist in the world. At some point during the evening he commented that he doesn't have the intelligence that the great economists have. But to reduce a concept down to its core, add current events and brilliant observations, mixed it all together with fine humour shows a massive comprehension and fine intellect. As all writers can attest, it's hard enough doing the first, adding humour without sounding like a bitter fool makes it nigh on impossible.

PJ has the skills to point out a person's stupidity/weakness/hypocrisy, create a brilliantly revealing and entertaining story as to why, and then make us all laugh, hoot and cheer - but here's where a special talent is exposed - the victim of the humour will be laughing along with the rest of us (the Topp Twins and Jon Stewart seem to possess this skill also), very cleaver.

PJ's skills are highly useful in an era where the majority of the population possess little to no concentration skills. If you can reduce a concept down to a few words or sentences, then make them memorable by injecting a huge dose of humour, then you're there.*

Later in the evening I had the great pleasure of talking to the honoured guest face-to-face, which was all a little overwhelming. I've never meet anyone that I really admired before, it's hard to think of what to say and you forget every question you always wanted to asked - really you want to just grin and say 'you're fantastic' - over and over again. But we did talk about 'The Troubles' that we have both experienced - the fact that he has flown half way around the world for a grueling media fest in both Australia and New Zealand is to be admired. I would have to take the rest of the year off.

Of course the Libertarianz were beside themselves that we had tables right in front of the stage and like a bunch of kids we had grins from ear-to-ear. At the first opportunity we pinned him down for a group photo.

* Lynn Truss taught me more about grammar in one evening with Eat, Shoots & Leaves, than I learnt after 13 years of education. Mind you 'chemo brain' stops me putting this into practice - that's my story and I'm sticking to it - I can get a doctors note if you don't believe me. Bill Bryson inspired some kind of interest in the English language - over and above pig ignorance - with Mother Tongue, as well as bringing science to the masses with A Short Story of Nearly Everything. All this via humour.

Update - CT Scan

2009-04-30T18:40:00.001+12:00

On Monday I had a scan to check that my latest chemo had destroyed the tumours. On Wednesday, Doc and I looked at the pretty patterns - I freaked out when I saw a round white tumour - turned out to be my heart - ha, kind of need that. So I decided to leave conclusions to those more knowledgeable than I. Doc couldn't see anything, but we waited for others to check out the CTs and as usual they confirmed Docs original opinion.

We also scanned my brain for re-staging purposes, curiosity and my sanity and it all looks the same as before - so all good there as well - phew!

My very sore neck is being drugged into submission - if the pain doesn't go away I might need an MRI, but I think it is a bad posture problem rather than a cancer problem.

So there you go, you are now informed.

Geographic Board

2009-04-24T11:57:00.006+12:00

Without a doubt the Geographic Board seem to be running out of things to do, given their bizarre actions of late. They appear to be trying to avoid redundancies by creating work. Mind you I suppose ultimately this is the modus operandi of all government departments.

But seriously - for being time wasting irritants - they really should be next to be investigated for over staffing.

Not PJ writes on this matter over at Not PC.

IRD - hahaha

2009-04-22T17:05:00.008+12:00

Oh joy, 250 IRD staff are to lose their jobs - not really enough for my liking of course, but it's a step in the right direction.

To all you softies out there that say "but what about the the poor workers" I say, working for any government agency makes one morally bankrupt - unless of course it is a temporary job in HR that lays off hundreds and thousands of workers. Working for the IRD makes one morally bankrupt and the scum of the earth. So no I don't feel sorry for any one of them. Save your sympathy for workers and businesses that contribute to the growth of New Zealand, not to its demise.

Another idea for redundancies is the whole of Ministry of Women's Affairs - yes 100% of it - its mere existence is patronising and an embarrassment to us all. Killing this gravy train will show the world that we are a nation that has moved leaps and bounds in regards to the female standard of living and any improvements is totally up to the individual - not the government - mind you I never attributed any gains to the government in the first place.

All ex-MOWA can go and work for a charity that try to raise the standard of living of women in those many barbaric countries that seem to be Islamic in nature. And I don't mean an admin job, I mean an on the ground posting in the middle of Afghanistan or such like. Mind you if they really cared about women that's where they would be already. Really they just want their snout in the trough.

Avatar Nerd!

2009-04-20T12:23:00.014+12:00

I'm one of those strange people that just love winter, I love rain and I especially love storms and can't understand when people moan as soon as any of the above arrive. So I loved yesterday particularly - pity there was no thunder and lightening.

With the chill in the air, the central heating system has been switched on, along with the electric blanket and the Winkie sees the light of day - so to speak.

I have been entertaining myself reading books and going to the odd movie:

* Topp Twins 8/10 By the by, I met them once - at a Bayleys awards dinner - where they stole my bag and made me come up on stage to get it back. Great fun, fantastic ladies.
* Gran Torino 8/10
* Welcome to the Sticks 7/10
* Slumdog Millionaire 7/10
* In Bruges 7/10

And a whole list to view over the next month: The Wrestler, The Reader, The Boat That Rocked, Milk and Dean Spanley,

Great viewing, but none so great as Avatar - the last airbender, which is a Nickelodeon series that seems to grab kids and adults, male and female alike. I highly recommend the three 'books' in the series and would love to know when series two is due out.

But in the meantime, under production and screening in 2010 is a fantasy film of the first series, with our own Cliff Curtis to play Fire Lord Ozai, ooooooh I can't wait - another event to aim for.

So yes - as this photo demonstrates - I've become an official nerd and now I rue the years I've wasted in boring world. Or am I regressing back into my childhood? Oh well, either way, all good.

Cool

2009-04-15T13:14:00.003+12:00

Sorry if you've seen this already - I know I'm always behind the eighth ball, but this is excellent.

Although you might get a better view if you go to the YouTube page.

And by the way, I've noticed that my spam mail has decresed by 90% of late. Does anyone know why?

New Zealand's Loser Models

2009-04-05T17:52:00.015+12:00

Complaints have been made that the latest reality abomination - New Zealand's Next Top Model - does not meet some kind of racial diversity criteria.

Those races that are not represented in this appalling show should be proud that their young woman haven't joined the ranks of these shrieking, grumpy, miserable, underfed, female embarrassments. Christ my pre-teen nieces don't scream like that anymore - well except when they jump into a pool set at 14 degrees celsius, but fair enough, even their Aunty would let out a few choice swear words at that temperature and that's coming from a woman that doesn't even squeak when bungy jumping .

Please, put your brain in gear and spend your hand ringing hours worrying that your young women aren't represented in science, engineering, business, finance and the such like, not some useless modelling programme that is just designed to make them all look like fools.

Happy Birthday to Me!

2009-04-03T10:42:00.009+13:00

For those that know me will understand that I'm not much into celebrating birthdays, but they do mark the passing of a persons life and represents one more milestone that I have passed.

No one thought I would make it to 41 years (including myself) and I make it to this stone feeling just fine and dandy - except for a slightly sore back - and somewhat tired due to late night at Galbraith's. A most enjoyable night discussing abortion, leaky homes and pedophiles, amongst other highly unimportant matters I'm sure. For a moment there we bloggers were outnumbered by non-bloggers, but that was quickly rectified.

I'm due my last chemo next Tuesday and that is that for this round, hopefully I can have a big break before the next bout of cancer rears its ugly head all over again. But we shall see.

I have booked some trips around the country, so it's Easter with the family at the big new bach, early May in Christchurch (apparently some hot air ballooning is on the cards) and the end of May in Nelson.

Next milestones: P.J. O'Rourke dinner and eating cheese again - both at the end of April. Oh and some time during the month I should be able to have the odd glass of wine, not that I'm too fussed on the wine front, but a really, really expensive glass of wine when one is out for dinner is a luxury I've been denied.

B3 - Bloggers Bar Bash

2009-03-18T14:33:00.007+13:00

It can be a lonely life, that of the blogger, as we thump away on our keyboards so we can inform, amuse and yes sometimes even bore our fellow man.

But fear not, we have a solution: bloggers are welcome to join the Bloggers Bar Bash - B3 - which is to be held the first Thursday of every month. The next B3 is on the the 2nd of April from 6.30pm onwards at Galbraiths, 2 Mt Eden Road, Mt Eden, Auckland.

There are many seating areas in Galbraiths, so you may need to look around. Last time we were outside, but it might be too cold/wet for that? Peter and I have committed to attending so just look out for me in the head scarf and Peter, he's tall.

Non-Dorklanders: please stop in whenever you are in town, it would be great to meet you.

Obama's First 100 Days - Privileged Executive

2009-03-17T17:05:00.003+13:00

I know he finds it hard, but Jon Stewart does occasionally manage to have the odd go at Obama - I think Jon would secretly like Bush back in office.

The Daily Show With Jon StewartM - Th 11p / 10c

Obama's First 100 Days - Privileged Executive

Daily Show Full Episodes
Important Things w/ Demetri Martin

Political Humor
Jim Cramer

Done

2009-03-16T13:33:00.008+13:00

Righto, the shave was performed last night by the lovely and safe hands of Carol Potts. Still do not have a digital camera by which to take a photo of the results, so in the meantime I present myself in 2007 when a first lost my hair.

Thanks to everyone for their kind and generous donations. If you were waiting until I had performed the deed before donating then go for it here.

I'm suffering from heat transfer, it was amazing how warm the peach fuzz (or bum fluff as my lawyer so kindly called it) kept my head. Have to wear the head scarf all the time at the moment.

And isn't it cold at the moment - every night at about 6.30pm I turn into an iceblock and have throw myself under a hot 30-minute shower to thaw. Made all the more pleasant without that annoying thing you peasants wear called hair.

Update: raised so far $3,950!

Shave for a Cure 2009

2009-03-08T11:36:00.002+13:00

It's that time again - Shave for a Cure - to raise money for the Leukaemia and Blood Foundation to assist with blood cancer research to find a cure - please quickly, quickly.

It's hard to believe that it's been a year - yay I made it. I was bald in 2007 and most of 2008 and I'm bald now, makes it difficult to do the shave thing, but there is a layer of white fluff all over my head that could be done away with, so I'm going ahead with the shave - donate here!

PS: being a good strong Kiwi woman not many things bring tears to my eyes, but this ad does.

The Economist

2009-03-08T11:00:00.008+13:00

Anti-Dismal and The Economists: Drug War 20 years on.

The video below doesn't accurately represent Obama's views - he is actually pro the War on Drugs.

Ron Paul has the idea.

Fun Friday

2009-03-06T16:30:00.002+13:00

I know, I know it's old, but I still think it's funny.

Ugly Bat Boy

2009-03-04T18:27:00.003+13:00

Hey PC I've found a cat uglier than yours - ha ha!

But this is where the likeness ends because "He loves being petted, has a terrific disposition and is beautiful on the inside".

Juno you need to step up to terrific.

He's coming!

2009-03-02T15:14:00.008+13:00

American satirist P.J. O'Rourke is in town on the 30th of April for the The 25th John Bonython Lecture and CIS Annual Dinner. Topic is 'Invisible Hand Versus Visible Fist' - I'll be there with bells on.

Phone or email me if you want to join a 10-person table.

Identity theft

2009-03-02T11:31:00.008+13:00

David Beckham, Sean Connery and Keanu Reeves have had their images/identities stolen by a Chinese company to promote a Viagra-like product. Justifiably they aren't happy with this theft and nor should they be - China is notorious for copyright theft but being the tricky dickies they appear to be, I can't see it ending anytime soon.

But this kind of thing goes down here in New Zealand by the biggest tricky dickies of all, the government. The government proudly promote Fred Dagg (John Clarke) on this website, whilst over at Kiwibank they advertise the bank using Fred's voice and character - without John Clarkes permission and definitely no payment. Of course none of us can really be surprised by this, the government is the biggest thief of all and why would we expect it's entities to act honourably, especially one set up by the biggest thief of all, Dr Cullen.

Update

2009-02-25T22:18:00.004+13:00

Chemo #5 started yesterday even though blood count was a little low. Doctors reduced my dose somewhat and there is discussion of not doing #6 for fear of stuffing my lungs - but no biggie either way - we shall wait and see. Don't you just love all the complicated medical jargon I use :o).

This week in daystay I have been inflicted by women talking, talking, talking - rather too loudly and with no regard for the rest of us - god they just go on and on. In all cases there was no need for the patients to bring along their extras. The only time I can really see a need for visitors in daystay is as an interpreter for the patient, when the patient is young, when patient goes the first couple of times or is sick or upset. Definitely none of these applied this week. Add to this that there is very little space for patients let alone extras and the stress levels rise. Wards are for visitors.

At the same time I've met some extremely lovely extras who have lit up my day and often make tea for their patient and everyone else in the room. But talking loudly in the middle of the room is not what they do - so maybe my real issue is they are just too loud - if only chemo would take away some of my near perfect hearing.

Update

2009-02-18T21:25:00.007+13:00

Well chemo #5 was put off for a week as my white blood count was too low. There are no problems with this as it doesn't make any difference to the outcome of the treatment.

The bonus is - I get to go to Waiheke half a day early - yay!

From the Cactus

2009-02-18T20:01:00.008+13:00

Read
this!

I told you so

2009-02-16T18:44:00.008+13:00

I commented last week:
New Zealanders generally lack enthusiasm [for investing], so much so that they saw finance companies as a safer bet than shares. This ignorance of risk and investing is wide spread - now they head over to bonds and I can bet they won't read the prospectus this time either.

So it was with a good dose of "I told you so" that I read Brian Gaynor's article on the recent Fonterra bond issue. He opens with:
There are a number of disturbing features regarding the gigantic Fonterra bond issue.

In particular the overwhelming response from investors, and their advisers, before offer documents were widely available clearly indicates that we have learned little from the finance company debacles.

Exactly!

According to the Securities Commission: "If an investment is recommended by a financial adviser he or she should have read the prospectus." How many advisers had read the Fonterra prospectus before they registered their firm allocations?

My question: even if they did read the prospectus in it's entirety, how many understood the contents?

Another concern is the Fonterra Bond Issue was to raise $300m, but to date they have raised $800m. They appear to be willing to take on the extra $500m of debt - what for? Surely if the needed more than $300m they would have asked for it. This make me very nervous.

One other fact that Gaynor raises that should concern all is the lack of disclosure:
Neither the investment statement nor the prospectus contains any specific information on Fonterra's performance for the first half of its 2009 financial year, which ended on January 31.

This omission is unsatisfactory because the company probably had a poor six months and its debt levels may now be materially higher than they were at the end of its 2008 financial year.

Untrustworthy management - take care.

Why do we continue to make these mistakes?
Whenever I bring up money matters with Kiwis they tend to just shut down. They don't want to even discuss in on a general level, let alone on a personal level - especially if they are in financial trouble. Surely this is the best time to talk openly, the time you need the most help.

I've been lucky in my money education, I've had one smart mentor plus five other investors that I speak to whenever I have a question. Add to this membership to two investment clubs and you get the idea that money education requires some effort, a reasonable amount of natural inquiry and is a lifetime pursuit.

I'm not saying I've never made a mistake with my investing or trading, I most certainly have and will continue to - I'm after all not the smartest cookie in the jar. The difference between me and most Kiwi investors is that I learn from my mistakes and I don't whine that I was 'ripped off' or try to blame others. But the main difference is I talk to people who are wealthier than me - even if I look stupid or don't particularly understand everything they say - eventually it sinks in.

So get into it, it has boring moments, but it isn't hard, and eventually becomes very exciting, as your wealth and security grows.

If this is global warming ...

2009-02-09T12:51:00.004+13:00

The 'if this is global warming then bring it on' rally

Yes, yes, alright!

2009-02-06T11:05:00.026+13:00

I know it's been ages since I last blogged, I'm not sure why, I just didn't feel like communicating, but I'm being hassled by certain people to get to and write something, so ...

Tennis ruined
January brought us, once again, the ATP Women's and Men's Tennis at Stanley Street - yay! I missed the Women's as I was away and sick, but enjoyed watching proceedings on TV. Then the men's tournament started, I was on the improve, so went for an evening in a corporate box (thanks Dad).

Now tennis has been one of the few sports I enjoy watching (add to this skiing, gymnastics and hockey). But horror of horrors an evil spirit has invaded Stanley Street, the unholy addition is ... music!

Yes I know the 'E' word is not something one usually associates with music*. But anytime the players came off the court they would play LOUD, CRAP music. Apparently this happened for all centre court games for both men's and women's. It was so bad I marched off to find the DJ and to plead with him (yes it could only be a man that could make it that loud and irritating) to 'cease and desist' or at least turn the volume down so I could talk to the person next to me. Fortunately for his personal safety he was on the other side of the court and I didn't have the energy to walk all the way around and back again - why no one else tried to sort this out is beyond comprehension (we Kiwi's can be too useless for our own good). I actually think I might of been able to get the music turned off completely - who could turn down a ranting, weak, bald, cancer patient on a mission for 'higher standards and order'.

The atmosphere at the tennis has always been great fun, a wonderful buzz of excitement in between plays, with fans shouting out support to players and funny little comments flying around the court. All this ruined because some tosser (most probably from outside NZ) has tried to force a format on a wonderful game and a unique venue. Mind you I can't imagine that music is suitable at any tennis venue - surely the don't play music at Wimbledon?

In fact there are very few sports that loud music would enhance the event:
* Basketball - kind of makes sense, mainly because it is such a tradition.
* Netball - it's already ruined by the fans using those moronic clapping sticks, loud music would probably enhance the viewing.
* Rugby - I don't watch, so couldn't care-a-less, ruin away. Actually on this, I was developing into an avid fan, but then they just kept playing and playing and playing all the time - too much, too boring.
* Cricket - don't watch.

I've heard that the tennis players like the music - but surely it is the audience that is paying and I'm sure they would rather have an audience than empty stands - more prize money after all.

Complaints can be made here.

Investing
As we watch Mark Weldon - CEO of NZX - run around doing god knows what (Cactus Kate comments here and here), I put my head in my hands and imagine how much bigger our economy would be today if we were in possession of a robust capital market. An effective market requires great liquidity (definitely not available at NZX) and at least some enthusiasm for share participation by it's citizens. New Zealanders generally lack this enthusiasm, so much so that they saw finance companies as a safer bet than shares. This ignorance of risk and investing is wide spread - now they head over to bonds and I can bet they won't read the prospectus this time either.

I am told by the big softies amongst you that I should feel sorry for all those that lost money in these financial collapses. But the likes of these investors (if you can call them that) call traders like me crazy gamblers with little idea of what we are doing, nor the risks we are taking. Worse they think that we are responsible for the losses that they made on the sharemarket in the past. So frankly I don't feel sorry for them, if I did I would be saying to them that they did no wrong.

Anyway back to the NZX - the sooner they are taken over by the ASX and all NZ companies listed on the main ASX board the better. An effective market requires great liquidity and market enthusiasm. The public listings via the NZX generally have been disappointing to both investor and the listing company, my advice to any businessman thinking of listing their company on the NZ stock exchange is don't - go over the ditch.

Kiwis will never buy shares in enough numbers to make the NZX a viable market. They rarely seem prepared to buy the shares and join the business for the long term, these days Kiwi investors will only buy bonds and property - spreading risk is once again still an unknown concept - learning by experience strangely fails again. The Australians are eager participants on the sharemarket, this participation provides excellent liquidity and a healthy sharemarket.

NZX does nothing to encourage share participation. ASX run seminars all the time - I'm constantly sent emails inviting me to attend. My broker also provide regular speakers and events to attend. The only one I've seen run in NZ is by ABN AMRO Craigs for women - get in there gals and do it for yourself, your lack of ego makes you a better investor apparently.

My Health
I've taken to avoiding germs by shaking hands, rather than hugging and kissing people. All very awkward as the huggor/kissor heads for me and I dodge and dive out of the way, with an apologetic "no I don't do that at the moment". I was starting to wonder if it was worth all the bother until I looked at my latest blood report - white blood count low, low, low. So I think I'll carry on with this no kissy/huggy policy, along with my short nails and handwashing regime. Fortunately it is "too bloody hot" to go out much, so I'm not out in public much anyway.

Low white blood count plus lack of steroids equals lack of energy, but other than that I feel great. Feel like I can conquer the world actually, until I try to - bugger - back to the couch.

* except of course anything religious, country and western, disco, hip hop and probably a few more styles that have slipped my mind.

Update

2009-01-15T14:00:00.005+13:00

Well I got back last week from a great holiday to an incredibly sore throat - couldn't eat, drink, swallow or blog. So headed to hospital on Friday for assistance and was given extra drugs and two bags of IV fluids. All improved from there and I fronted up on Tuesday for Chemo #4.

Because of my irritating ongoing cough and spiking temperatures my doctor wanted to do a chest xray. Came up clear but chemo had to be rescheduled for a week.

I must have played on the mind of my doctor who called me back in today for a CT scan. Two matters came out of this:
* I don't have any problems in my lungs.
* The tumours have pretty much gone.
So we carry on with the last three chemos and this course should be all over by mid-March.

I came off the Dexamethasone steroids I've been taking since May, so energy levels are very low. As much as I hate steroids I was kind of looking forward to my 10-days of Prendazone that I have as part of my chemo, anyway I should perk up again as my body adjusts to the steroid flux.

New Year 2009 - crikey!

2008-12-24T19:25:00.008+13:00

Yes I know I'm early, but I'm going away on Boxing Day and I'm not taking my computer with me.

Well this is a milestone I didn't think I'd get to and I'd like to thank all of you that helped me get through the last 7 months since my grand mal seizure and brain tumour discovery. I am really lucky to have such great friends and family who have helped me in so many ways - some just entertaining, some talking through the cancer/dying process, some both - all good.

And yes I know I wasn't really meant to get to this stage, but given the number of visitors I received I wasn't the only one who thought I was on the way out in 2008.

Now that I've thank you all I now must apologise for any tantrums I have thrown (and will continue to). I blame the following:

* constant doses of steroids - by the end of my CEPP treatments it will be a whole year.

* people fussing around me - I know you mean well but if you knew me you'd know I'm not going to react rationally. Fortunately for me my darling flatmate Em is not anywhere near close to fussy - much appreciated.

* annoying national and international events - remember I get to watch ALL the news and read ALL the magazines (not the woman's ones).

* just generally not caring what people think actually. I know quite a few of you hadn't realised my 'worldly' opinions on matters and found them not to your flavour - frankly don't care - life's more fun this way - try it out. Unless of course you read woman's magazines, then we don't give a rats arse what you think, cause you obviously don't.

Anyway next milestone is a visit to the majestic South Island and my 41st in April 2009.

Have a great Xmas day - don't eat too much - it's all about quality, not quantity.

Much, much love to you all.
Annie Fox!

PS: oh my god I forgot to thank the amazing working bee team who fixed the garden. You'll all be pleased to know that the plants have all survived and the grass has grown lush and thick and looking fantastic. Particular thanks to Allan (brother) for organising all of this, without a foreman we would have failed and special thanks to his team of church friends. We've finished!

Matchmakers

2008-12-18T15:57:00.011+13:00

Matchmaking is a process that most singles are forced into at some time or other. Personally I think that it's great that friends partake in this process for their single friends. Sometimes it is extremely successful (a friend of mind was matched into a blind date dinner in the opposite island - now married and extremely happy), but most of the time it isn't, but that's fine as long as the matchmaker shows a little bit of sensitivity:

1/ Put some thought into it - just because your single female friend (SFF) and single male friend (SMF) are both fancy free, doesn't mean they will fall for each other. They are after all single for a reason, fussiness is probably it. However if you follow rule 2 below you can put in less thought as it won't really matter.

2/ If you are planning to match your SFF and your SMF at a party/dinner/BBQ, then please only tell one party to the match. It is just incredibly awkward if both know about the potential match. My suggestion is that you tell the man. Woman generally like to be pursued and men like to pursue*. Of course some discretion can be applied here depending on their personalities.

3/ Do not under any circumstances tell other people at the party about the matchmaking. You may have got all excited by the prospect of fixing up SFF/SMF and think it's all terribly fun, but an audience can be rather humiliating.

4/ But not telling either party to the match is probably the best plan - just organise a party and see what happens.

* Not sure the rules of engagement for the gay and lesbian matching, but I'm sure it's more fun than the heterosexual dance that goes on.

P.J. O'Rourke's visit to Australia rescheduled

2008-12-17T17:39:00.006+13:00

When you have terminal cancer you find yourself planning to live to see the New Year or birthdays or concerts or breakfast. One of my big plans was to survive to see P.J. O'Rourke visit New Zealand in November this year. Unfortunately he also was diagnosed with cancer and so the visit was postponed. But he seems to be back on his feet again because the following was announced recently:

The CIS is delighted to announce that US political satirist and journalist, P.J. O'Rourke, is doing well after his cancer treatment and will travel to Australia in April 2009 to deliver the postponed 25th anniversary John Bonython Lecture. At this stage, the Sydney event will take place on either 21 or 22 April, with possible interstate and New Zealand lectures under consideration. Further details will be available in the new year.

So if he doesn't come to New Zealand I'll have to take a trip up to my favourite Aussi city, SYDNEY!

Hat tip: Not PC

Update

2008-12-16T21:53:00.006+13:00

Just to let you know I started Chemo #3 today - all going well, feeling stronger than a month ago. It is looking like I'm going to do six rounds instead of the planned four.

I can have a scan after the 4th round, but I think I'll wait until after the 6th.

Pain is increasing across my back, but not enough to take painkillers or to be a real problem, it just constantly reminds that I have cancer.

Patronising

2008-12-14T15:57:00.013+13:00

I've often been heard ranting something along the lines of "god I'd hate to be Maori" or Tongan or Samoan and I can assure it's not because I'm pleased to be Pakeha, I really couldn't give a toss what ethnicity I am - after all it is just like gender - only an accident of birth.

My dislike of being born Maori/Tongan/Samoan completely relates to the patronising way they are dealt with by the government - particularly noticeable with the 'social education' campaigns. The campaigns will portray a stereotypical Maori/Tongan/Samoan - usually obese and acting semi-ridiculous (or is that just standard for TV these days?). In fact the only time I don't see an obese Maori/Tongan/Samoan in a TV advert is when it is a non-government campaign.

The only 'social eduction' campaigns I can think of that don't focus on the Maori/Tongan/Samoan is the 'Buy NZ' and 'Retirement Commission' adverts. Maybe the overpaid, braindead policymakers in Wellington think that Maori/Tongan/Samoan don't have any money to buy NZ or the brains to invest*.

Must be frustrating to be treated like you are a basket case purely based on your ethnicity. Awhile back I saw an interview with a Maori women - now living in Melbourne - she loved living away for New Zealand where she is now treated as an individual and judged on her character attributes - good or bad - not by the fact that she is Maori.

The Daily Show has a wonderful skit highlighting the changes in patronising practices now that Obama is nearly President - well worth the view.

* I can assure you when it comes to investing, ALL New Zealanders lack the brains.

Update: Well maybe not ALL, but 97% would be a fair estimate.

Blogs of the week

2008-12-12T10:16:00.004+13:00

Not PC: A message from American car makers.

Not PC: Recession doesn't have to mean unemployment.

Cactus Kate: Lamb to the slaughter.

Liberty Scott: So you are a Minister now.

Lindsay Mitchell: Talking about the Families Commission.

Micky's Muses: Quote of the day.

Mark Steyn: Vunerable Muslims. Hat tip Micky's Muses

RobiNZ

2008-12-10T16:53:00.003+13:00

RobiNZ appears to be from the "this pisses me off" brigade - welcome.

New Zealand quiz shows always have chatty irritating people - I actively hope they don't win, in fact a sudden brain aneurysm would be fantastic. So I don't watch them and it's such a shame as I love quiz shows and every single New Zealand quiz show is absolutely appalling.

Also I wonder if they are rigged - how does one get on this show if one is not a bubbly dimwit with the IQ of a 2-year-old.

TV advertising - stop the abuse

2008-12-09T12:10:00.013+13:00

Now speaking of advertising, I have to complain bitterly about TV adverts - yes I know this isn't new complaint - but I have some solutions.

TV & advertising executives are concern about the lack of eyeballs watching the adverts. They believe that viewers switch the volume off or watch via MySky and skip the ads altogether. Now the MySky issue I believe is relatively minor - not that many households have MySky and don't always view TV via MySky anyway - but this could become more of a problem with MyFreeview.

But the mute button is most definitely an issue and one that I practice regularly, for my own sanity. Remotes have been around for decades, but I haven't bothered with muting until more recently. Adverts and their presentation have changed for the worst, it is the advertising executives that are to blame and here are some of my suggestions to slow the eyeball drain.

* decrease the volume of adverts - yes I know you say that the volume isn't increased, but really you're either lying or deaf. The result is we reach for the remote to decrease the volume and since we have bother to pick it up, we might as well just mute the whole ad break.

* stop the impossibly stressful high rotation of ads. The Cigna funeral ad is by itself a good ad, but once you see it twice every ad break I'm ready to smash my head against a brick wall.

* stop the shouting male voice over - I'm not deaf, once again you stress me out and I'm not going to think positively about your product/service.

* stop making the adverts so aggressive with continuous violence and smashing - once again BLOODY STRESSFUL.

* stop using voice over woman that talk either like a little child or a porn star. It frankly sounds ridiculous - I land up just mocking the product and make a point of not buying it.

And here's an idea - try programming some decent shows and we might bother to switch on in the first place. 2008 produced the shortest list of quality TV I've ever seen:
* House MD
* City Homicide
* The Daily Show
* M*A*S*H (yes it's replaying on Prime)
* Ice Road Truckers
* Outrageous Fortune
* Rove
* Back Benches
* Agenda - sadly cancelled
* Media 7
* Piha Rescue
There are possibly others? But can't think of them at the moment.

So put simply, stop ANNOYING, STRESSING and BULLING the poor TV viewer - you'll find that if we are in more relaxed frame-of-mind we will just sit there and mindlessly watch your ads - possibly even happily.

Side Issue 1: To combat the eyeball problem, product placement has become more common practice. Don't mind this at all, great idea, but suggest that it needs to make sense or it will just look stupid - for example - the latest 007 movie placed Gordons Gin in a cocktail recipe on a first-class flight. You have to be kidding - Bond would never drink Gordons and first-class would never serve it. They would have Tanqueray - or maybe the lesser Bombay Sapphire!

Side Issue 2: What's with the perfume ads lately - they look like they are made in Europe and are frankly bizarre and amateurish. Maybe they should think about making them in New Zealand - because I may complain about the issues around our TV advertising, but our advertising production teams do come up with some classic ads.

Buy the world

2008-12-08T13:22:00.005+13:00

I didn't expect to see cuts in government advertising until next year - if at all - so this 'possible' cut came as a nice suprise.

Liberty Scott has already posted on this issue, so I'll leave it with him.

Please National don't stop with just this campaign, there are plenty more that need the chop - ie. all of them.

Steven Joyce goes left

2008-12-08T11:33:00.005+13:00

Taxi security reviewed after killing

"Transport Minister Steven Joyce will review the use of distress buttons, video cameras and safety screens to separate drivers and passengers."

Does the government have rules on the use of buttons, cameras and screens? If they do have these rules then the only thing Joyce needs to do is get rid of them.

But let's presume that they rules don't exist - why is the government wasting time and resources on this matter - surely it is the responsibility of the taxi driver what security he would like. Just like they decide if they are going to have a Navman or CD player or air freshener. Just like I decided to have an alarm system installed in my home - the neighbour didn't and was burgled on the weekend - she will now install an alarm.

Or is Joyce thinking about using our money to pay for taxi security? Please no - that would be a major slide down for this successful entrepreneur. Didn't take long.

The Daily Show

2008-12-05T12:54:00.004+13:00

My day ends each night at 10.30 tucked up in bed watching The Daily Show with Jon Stewart on C4.

Here is a classic from Dec 2 - Obama/Clinton Sarcasm - brilliant, sarcasm is truly the highest form of wit! It's my experience that those that think the opposite tend to be from the "PC/offended" brigade.

Some of you may have been introduced to The Daily Show when Jon Stewart had a go at the NZ Government July 2007 on freedom of speech violations.

Modern Maths

2008-12-03T09:00:00.000+13:00

1. Teaching Maths In 1970: A logger sells a truck load of timber for $1000. His cost of production is 4/5 of the selling price. What is his profit?

2. Teaching Maths In 1980: A logger sells a truck load of timber for $1000. His cost of production is 4/5 of the selling price, or $800. What is his profit?

3. Teaching Maths In 1990: A logger sells a truck load of timber for $1000. His cost of production is $800. Did he make a profit?

4. Teaching Maths In 2000: A logger sells a truck load of timber for $1000. His cost of production is $800 and his profit is $200. Your assignment: Underline the number 200.

5. Teaching Maths In 2008: A logger cuts down a beautiful forest because he is totally selfish and inconsiderate and cares nothing for the habitat of animals or the preservation of our woodlands. He does this so he can make a profit of $200. What do you think of this way of making a living?

Topic for class participation after answering the question:
How did the birds and possums feel as the logger cut down their homes? (There are no wrong answers. If you are upset about the plight of the animals in question, counselling will be available.)

Hat Tip: Lang Mama

Big Girls Blouse

2008-12-02T18:07:00.007+13:00

Kiwis travellers are complaining that they have been stuck in Bangkok for four days and NZ government hadn't managed to bus them out.

Honestly what's wrong with these people - just go to the train station and get a train down to Malaysia - New Zealanders were once known for their ability to look after themselves - the socialist system has turned too many into useless, whingers with limited problem solving abilities.

Best Blog of the Week

2008-11-23T11:25:00.005+13:00

Not PC found Hugh Laurie giving us timely advice on "fixing everything".

Goverment Workers

2008-11-21T10:45:00.003+13:00

The Four Cats

Four men were bragging about how smart their cats were. The first man was an Engineer,
the second man was an Accountant,
the third man was a Chemist, and
the fourth man was a Government Employee.

To show off, the Engineer called his cat, 'T-square, do your stuff. 'T-square pranced over to the desk, took out some paper and pen and promptly drew a circle, a square, and a triangle. Everyone agreed that was pretty smart.

But the Accountant said his cat could do better. He called his cat and said, 'Spreadsheet, do your stuff. 'Spreadsheet went out to the kitchen and returned with a dozen cookies. He divided them into 4 equal piles of 3 cookies.

Everyone agreed that was good. But the Chemist said his cat could do better. He called his cat and said, 'Measure, do your stuff. 'Measure got up, walked to the fridge, took out a quart of milk, got a 10 ounce glass from the cupboard and poured exactly 8 ounces without spilling a drop into the glass. Everyone agreed that was pretty good.

Then the three men turned to the Government Employee and said, 'What can your cat do?' The Government Employee called his cat and said, 'CoffeeBreak, do your stuff.'
CoffeeBreak jumped to his feet.......
ate the cookies........
drank the milk.......
pooed on the paper.......
beat up the other three cats.......claimed he injured his back while doing so.......
filed a grievance report for unsafe working conditions.......
put in for Workers Compensation...............and went home for the rest of the day on sick leave!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

and that is why the many losers in this country want to work for the government!

Random or Weird

2008-11-19T20:04:00.008+13:00

Lea White tagged me to list 7 random or weird facts about myself. Now this proved rather difficult - nothing seemed random or weird enough. Anyway was on PCs couch this arvo and told him of my dilemma and he just headed for the computer and hey presto he emailed me a framework to work on - easy to see why he can do so many postings each week. Anyway thanks PC and sorry to those I've tagged, but I am actually interested to see your list.

1) With predictive texting, my name comes up as 'bomb'. Which some of you might say is perfect.

2) I'm related to Lord Nelson and Abraham Lincoln. True.

3) I've played four musical instruments in my life - violin, piano, bassoon and of course the recorder. Piano is my favourite, bassoon the most fun. Why I stopped playing them all is one of my regrets.

4) I used to be a lefty loser. I recovered from this socialist cancer, but it stuffed my immune system so now I can't overcome Non-Hodgkin's :o).

5) I own a house with a woman - but I’m not a lesbian (I know you all wonder). This is an increasing trend amongst those who don't want to live miles out of town, but can't afford a decent home, in a decent location by themselves. Now this definitely doesn't suit everyone, but Em & I are naturally brilliant - the key is keeping the money issues straight and keeping the palace clean and ordered.

6) My favourite album is the ‘Stranglers Collection 1977-1982.’

7) I hate, hate, hate, hate the colour purple. And I’m not too big on whistles either.

and a bonus fact
I'm a trader, an objectivist and a libertarian. Which means I make my own money, and I like to keep it.

So here's my tag list:
Not PC
Lang Mama
un-PC Lesbian
Mr Lineberry
Liberty Scott
Oswald Bastable
and probably in a vain attempt to end her idle blogging ways - Idle Vice - please come back!

Bureaucrats

2008-11-17T20:33:00.009+13:00

Was at the hospital last Thursday for a checkup with my Haematologist. Went to sit down in the comfy lazy boys to wait, to find three ladies discussing how to brighten up the space. They had a couple of complaints that it was too dark - strange really because the rest of us keep wanting the lights turned off.

Anyway the discussion went on and on, so I couldn't help putting my two cents in - especially when the solution was going to cost money. So I stated - what should have been bloody obvious to anyone with half a brain - that there was no spare cash in the health system. I think they decided not to go with the idea that cost money - couldn't be sure of course because they were taking the recommendation to some committee - jesus!

So that was a complete waste of 15-minutes of one receptionist and two administrators, the former being a valid position. This is the sort of thing that doctors and nurses - valid employees - and us poor taxpayers complain about. Administrators are like rabbits, get two together and they just keep multiplying. Culling is the inevitable solution, but a majority of managers don't do their jobs by keeping the non-productive to an absolute minimum.

The new pragmatic National government only plan to maintain bureaucrats at its current level - which is just a massive cop-out. They know that the bureaucrats levels are so high they are slowing New Zealands growth and prosperity, yet they do nothing about it. Pragmatic policiticans - aren't we lucky - not!

Okay, I give up

2008-11-16T17:44:00.004+13:00

On election night I stopped by the dairy to get some snacks. Selected the desired junk food and headed to the till to pay, to discover that I'd forgotten my wallet. Turned around mumbling that I was an idiot and couldn't pay. A lovely young English girl offered to pay. I automatically declined, but she insisted a few more times. I thought to myself if situation was reversed I'd want to be able to help out and pay - so I took her up on kind offer.

Which brings me to my insistence on paying when friends take me out. I now know that you are just trying to show your love and support and don't deserve my wroth. So I apologies for my un-graciousness and agree that we take go back to the normal 'turn and about'.

On to a more serious issue. Many of you are aware that my niece is a liver transplant recipient. Over at Ramblings and Rumblings Lang Mama introduces us to David Poa ...

John Boy's first mistake

2008-11-10T18:51:00.005+13:00

Well John Key has made his first and worst possible mistake (didn''t take long) by not bring Rodger Douglas into the cabinet as Finance Minister.

Douglas is the only one that has the economic brains that could have limited the pain New Zealand is going to go through.

It is the current tax payers that will suffer as they watch their hard earned money being handed out to useless businesses and equally useless citizens who have been living beyond their means.

The elderly will lose significant chunks of their savings to inflation - mind you that generation has stolen from my generation by borrowing too much in the past, my generation paid all that off and now they are going to take up new loans for non-GDP raising infrastructure - do they never learn.

Freedom of Speech

2008-11-07T18:54:00.004+13:00

Over at No Right Turn - Idiot/Savant attacks the National Party supporters for being Anti-Freedom of Speech after Labour supporters made a racket in Palmerston North when John Key came to talk to National Party supporters.

I know I'm stating the obvious but surely impeding John Key's Freedom of Speech was what the Labour protester wanted to do?

Anyway protesting during the election is kind of strange, especially coming from the party that is in power. Election time is really for campaigning not protesting, but of course I defend their right to protest - especially when it makes them look like a bunch of twats.

I'm staying in tonight to preserve my energy for tomorrow nights election party. I'm been rewarded by an hour long special of Eating Media Lunch.

Jeremy Wells for Prime Minister!

Couldn't agree more

2008-11-07T11:09:00.007+13:00

Brain and fingers aren't the best all the time, so I'm just going to link you to blogs that I agree with - I know it's cheating, but they are better at writing than I am anyway ...

* Maori Party $500 blugging
* Nanny State Myth
* Obama - the great black hope
* Beware the Celebrity Endorsement

and finally humour or horror, not really sure, but well worth a watch and a reason not to vote Green.

Elections '08 (Updated)

2008-11-06T18:11:00.015+13:00

Was watching Tito Phillp Fields on the news on Tuesday night when he was asked about the cost of his campaign. He commented that donations were coming in from churches and the such like. Journalist asked if the Brethren had donated - with true balls and without blinking he said "I hope they have contributed" (or something like that). Truly excellent - John or Helen would have blustered and weaseled on.

Why is it considered wrong that Brethren are involved in NZ elections? All other religions are in on the game - and unlike those religions I don't think the Brethren have been involved in any ethnic cleansing, mass murders or crusades (although I could easily be wrong, it is a religion after all).

Hopefully John Key gets a spine like Tito's soon - three years of spineless mumbling is just going to be so painful for you all. Mind you Nationals socialist policies are painful enough by itself.

Once again I look forward to casting my vote on Saturday - it's great to be able to do so for policies I totally agree with. This, plus finding my place in life with my success in trading makes me extremely proud and satisfied. Pity I can't enjoy it for longer, but best to get there rather than not.

A million thanks to all the Libz team for their massive efforts in campaigning and education over the years - particularly to Peter Cresswell for his blog.

Update 1: Sean Fitzpatrick said...
Since you raised the issue, yes the Mormans were responsible for an atrocity - in 1857 Bishop John D Lee, under orders from Bringham Young massacred 150 non-Morman new migrants - it became known as the 'Mountain Meadow Massacre'.

Update 2: Just pointed out to me that it was the Brethren not the Mormons (in origianl posting) that was asked to Tito - gee whizz I'm losing it - so all corrected now.

Question: Have they been involved in any mass murders or crusades?

Chill

2008-11-02T11:37:00.013+13:00

How others react to my terminal cancer ranges from funny, to confusing, to just plain annoying.

It was portrayed to me that my month long blog silence upset a few people the other month. Some thought I had walked off this mortal coil (or was about to) and thus they started to freak out. Sorry about that I'll try to be more communicative, but at the time all I would have said was "I feel sick - god I'm going to vomit - shit this sucks - where are the real pain killers?" As you can see I'm a big baby when the pain kicks in - after all it was just for a sore shoulder.

Now I have to say I don't understand this getting all stressed out and freaky. What is there possibly to freak out about, we all know the outcome of this illness, we just don't know when, there's been plenty of time to come to grips with it. So stressing every time I go to see the doctor or just have an off day is really going to make life hell for all of us.

For the record, so you can relax a little, after I die a friend will post a blog letting you all know - so there's no need to second guess what's going on or freak my family and friends out with hysterical emails/calls/txts.

Others have said that they are scared to phone me. I have asked close friends what this might mean, but all they say is that they "understand". That doesn't answer my question and quite frankly makes me slightly paranoid - am I really scary? I know I can throw a wobbly if you don't let me buy lunch, but to be quite frank I've already told you I'm paying (can't take $$ with you) and the fact that you ignore me or make a stupid fuss of it all is just plain annoying and you're lucky a wobbly is all you get. Maybe they really mean 'uncomfortable' rather than scared - please don't - if I'm not up for a conversation or a visit I will tell you. Sometimes you might catch me in a bit of a mood, but I don't think that this qualifies as scary.

Now I appreciate that this is a difficult period - some of you have been through this, usually with an older relative true, but still it can't be easy. I try to help you all by talking about it - surely I must bore the pants off you all with the talk, talk, talk. But really the fact is we all die eventually and sure cancer isn't the greatest way to go, and sure 40 is way too young, but I can think of a lot worse so let's just make the best of it, relax and get on with life.

Ringo Starr would say "peace and love", I say "chill".

Update

2008-10-23T15:09:00.002+13:00

Started CEPP chemo on Monday (Day 1) and just finished Day 3. Back to hospital for Day 8 next Tuesday and then nothing again until Day 28 when it starts all over again.

Yes I know this was earlier than first indicated, but I was getting more and more tired and was worried that the pain was going to come back, so thought I'd just get on with the job.

Feeling good and heading up north with the family for the long weekend.

TTFN

I'm back!

2008-10-17T11:50:00.004+13:00

Sorry for the silence on my part, since coming back from Fiji I've been in somewhat of alot of pain, which meant going on some morphine based pain killers which meant I was nausea, which meant I was vomiting, which meant I felt bad.

However the pain has subsided now and I'm getting my appetite back (lost 6kgs in 2-weeks) and can communicate again.

Had a CT scan of my head, chest and stomach. The brain tumour is just about non existent now, but I have three new tumours, two on my lung and one under my arm. So I will be taking on some more chemo starting on the 4th of November. Fortunately, it is all outpatient stuff on a 28-day cycle. So we'll see how all this goes - I never seem to have much problem with treatments so hopefully it's the same this time. Anyway I can stop the treatments whenever I like.

Guest blogger #3

2008-09-21T21:39:00.001+12:00

This has got to be the hardest thing you could ever have to do. I really want to write something to/for my sister Anna. How do you do this when you know one day you will not ever be able to talk to her again, moan at her, laugh out loud with her, get annoyed by her, sit and have a wine with her – a drink I mean. Okay and a whinge. All my life you have been there through thick and thin cliché, cliché, cliché. I have no idea how I am going to feel when you are gone but I do know that right now this whole thing is unbelievable.

Seriously Anna – no-one can write down clearly what they think – they don’t know what they think as it is too hard to think – way too hard. So if there is anything I can do, should do, you want me to do or not do – just let me know.

One thing I will never know is 'will the dog miss you so much too?'

AIG - welfare pigs have nose in trough

2008-09-18T14:17:00.010+12:00

I heard a rumour last night that there was private capital prepared to take over AIG, but the AIG boys scuppered all attempts because they didn't want to lose their jobs. This doesn't surprise me at all - bloody corporate welfare recipients all of them. They stuff up what was one of the safest and stable companies and expect the taxpayer to foot the bill. If you were a US citizen you'd be looking for an exit. But don't come here this country isn't going anywhere fast - try Hong Kong.

Not PC sums up the situation best here!

The Markets

2008-09-18T14:17:00.004+12:00

Loving this market correction - have been waiting for it to happen for over two-years now. For you non-shareholders, you should be starting to read up on companies and markets and look at putting some money in - these corrections only come round every 20 or so years and provides a perfect opportunity to get in. No rush though I'm sure there will be more pain to be had, but some sectors will bounce back quicker than others. First step is to open that brokerage account.

My advice is make the investments directly into the markets yourself - none of these investment funds/unit trusts - they rarely beat the indexes and charge you large fees for the privilege. If you not sure which individual share to buy then look at Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs). The management fee is low and allows you to invest in industries or countries that are otherwise too difficult to access.

I'm totally jealous that I won't be around to ride this one.

Guest blogger #2

2008-09-12T10:37:00.002+12:00

This blog belongs to Anna but since you are all reading it and she is on holiday I will address it to you (which puts her in third person). My apologies for being so rude – Anna’s friend Jaqui.

Talking about death is hard – we’re unpractised and unwilling for it to feature in our lives. When someone has been told they have a definite timeline on this earth – it becomes something we reluctantly consider. We think about their death and then inevitably ours too. All my attempts so far to discuss the topic in a meaningful way have ended up sounding trite.

Anyhow, this is how it went for me when Anna called with the news that she had Non-Hodgkin’s Disease. At first, I was thrilled to hear her voice as we hadn’t spoken for some time. So I prattle on until she calmly states the reason for her call. Afterwards I am quiet for a long time. I remember thinking “some sort of religious framework would be helpful right now”.

I knew it was serious but I had a friend who had survived this disease and I knew of others too so I remained optimistic. Well, actually, although I thought about the fact it was a possibility she could die - it didn’t really register - it wasn’t real. At least not until an email arrived months later after she had collapsed and been taken to hospital – on the same day she got the all clear from the doctors. “Isn’t that unreal?” I keep repeating to myself “…on the same day!”

With this news I feel completely ineffectual in terms of how I might help and waiver between disbelief and being upset – trying to approach it all pragmatically. But I’m all over the place. I have heard that a number of terminally ill people experience severe loneliness as many friends and relatives stop or limit contact because they don’t know what to say or don’t want to intrude. This is not the case with Anna. She has dozens of people who want to “be there”. I try to find a way to be there too in a way that will not cost her a lot of energy and I know to limit my “helpful” suggestions. On one visit we talk about how strange it feels to be having so much communication when we generally make contact once or twice a year. I am careful when I ring not to talk twaddle. Nor do I want to ring and be morose or too chirpy but I do want to talk with her and stay close by. I definitely care but it’s awful to ask “how are you?” and in this sense the blog she has been publishing is helpful. The fact is that everything I do say sits alongside the reality that my friend is dying. Nothing seems appropriate or even really matters. My difficulties at work are trivial. My plans for the weekend or even next year... who cares? You get the picture.

I have thought about what it will be like knowing that she isn’t there and I just can’t. She always has been there since I was a younger version of the me I am now. It’s a long time but I haven’t actually changed much in that 25 years and I don’t think she has either. I can remember lots of things she said that made me laugh or sometimes even gasp in horror at her different take on the world. It didn’t matter that we didn’t always agree – Anna was rock solid and straight up. For a long time she and I pursued careers that were at best non-linear and unpolished. I derived a certain degree of comfort from this fact that I wasn’t alone so I do think it’s crappy that just as she really finds her niche in the business world this happens.

Much respect to Anna for nudging me get a grip by sharing what has been happening to her. It’s really helpful when people do talk about their death. I am going to get things sorted, make a will and if anyone I know gets sick I’ll talk to them about it – if they want to.

It’s a dual task remaining optimistic and being realistic. I’ve reached the stage where I am aware that this probably won’t be a miracle story. It doesn’t seem right but at last it seems I have accepted that it is so.

--------------------------------------------

Bula from Fiji. It's sunny, tropical and hot. Off to sit by the pool. Hope it's raining in Auckland :o)

Whew!

2008-09-09T19:42:00.005+12:00

After a couple of months of testing for cancer and weeks in hospital for liver complications, the unstoppable Julia has come up clear on last weeks Melbourne PET Scan and Bone Marrow test.

As you can imagine this is a huge relief for all the family and anyone that knows my full-of-life niece. Stress levels have dropped and we can all take a huge sigh of relief.

For anyone who's had the pleasure of meeting Julia they remember a kid with a fantastic sense of life and easy humour - she will go on to remarkable things and will be remember for amazing feats.

Big hug Jujus.

Busy, busy ...

2008-09-08T22:03:00.009+12:00

Well it's been a rather busy week, popped over to Melbourne with Mum and Yoke Har & Julia for Julia's annual PET scan - no results back from this scan as yet, waiting, waiting - very impatiently I might add!!!

Also went to see my cousin and his family who now live in Melbourne. It's great to see them happy and successful with two cute little girls with characters to match - a real credit to their successful parenting.

It was a whirlwind tour of just two nights so arrived back rather tired, but all well worth it - especially as I was able to buy Season Four of 'House' - very happy about that as I needed another fix of Hugh.

I have started to make up milestones I'd like to see - surviving to see Season Five of House is one of them, along with seeing P.J. O'Rourke who apparently is coming over in November for the CIS annual dinner. Obviously Xmas would be good and my 41st would be even better. But in the meantime I head off on holiday to Fiji on Wednesday for 6 nights - yay - never been there before.

Also managed to survive a Housewarming Party with a 1am bedtime - great to see everyone there and a success if I say so myself. Thanks for all the presents - if we haven't thank you directly it's because we had quite a few with no cards.

The house is now officially open.

Guest blogger #1

2008-09-01T15:46:00.017+12:00

Fortunately for me I have great friends and family that are prepared to talk to me about dying. I'm aware that some would rather not hear it, but hey it's good for me and ultimately I think it's good for them. But the discussion rarely goes to how they feel about me dying and the emotions that they go through - I'm sure they are trying to protect me (no need, I'm not a wuss) and I'm now more than ready to find out. So I am inviting guest bloggers to share their views.

If anyone wants to put their views, just send it through - love to hear from you - you don't even need to know me.

First up is my great friend and supporter, the lovely Carol ...

====================================

I am delighted to be invited to post a wee piece - as guest blogger - for dear friend Annie Fox! But that doesn't make it easy to write.

Our story: Anna (her real name) lived with PC and me (CP) for several years. Now, living with a couple is not often an easy arrangement but the three of us muddled along very happily together.

We parted our flatting relationship as firm friends - moi as her life long hairdresser (yes, I'm the Carol responsible for the latest shave to the head!) and PC as her architect and fellow political compatriot.

In between permanent jobs, I'm now in the truly fortunate position of spending a little time with Ms Fox as her sometime driver, fellow massage-mate, and No.1 tea maker -- for as long as she'd like ...... and long I hope it will be!

But as often happens when you're faced with the realisation that someone you're close to will not always be just around the corner, thoughts are triggered about life and the profundity of it.

My thoughts (some of them) have been on motivation, particularly Anna's unyielding display of self-motivation. Every single thing we do in life leads us to do something else more successfully, more creatively or more productively. Every road has a destination. So what motivates someone who is terminally ill to do anything?

I appreciate the cathartic value of sorting out one's affairs in advance, but how Anna has the motivation to jump out of bed in the mornings beats the hell out of me. But jump up she does, and we're out each day on a mission or adventure!

And would I want to know if I was the one with finality ahead of me? Doctors these days are as up front with prognoses as we're said to want them to be, but do we really want to hear this news?

I won't say Anna's inspiring 'cause she said I'm not allowed too -- as she says: 'I'm not being inspiring, I'm just facing reality' -- but Anna's relentless reality-focus, her refusal to fake reality, is something few, if any of us, ever master, and it's something to behold. It's this character of hers that forms part of my reward for spending time with her.

Now, let's make no mistake, for all the uplifting tales however, this is not a feelgood story. It's an absolute tragedy, and there's no softening of the blow as time passes. But Anna, I have to say this, you're an absolute darling to spend time with -- here's to our next adventure!

Working Bee

2008-08-31T16:36:00.013+12:00

Yesterday we had a big working bee at home to get the landscaping finished in double quick time. At one point we had 25 workers and the whole place was finished and looking fabulous by the end of the day (photos to follow) - a bit like Mucking In, but without the cameras. We just need a new fence built and then we can lay the grass and finito - wonderful!

Thanks soooo much to all who helped, both Emilija and I very much appreciated the energy exerted and the time sacrificed on our behalf. Especially big brother Allan, who helped us buy the plants, plan the whole thing and organise the troops, mammoth effort all round - we love you all.

Hope you enjoyed the food & drinks, you were here so late we must have done something right. Also hope you aren't too achy today - I know I am and I didn't even do anything.

The little things that really piss me off!

2008-08-29T15:21:00.003+12:00

My brain function has changed somewhat - I get flustered very easily, which I suppose isn't that unusual for me, but I now rave every time it happens. Poor Emilija has to listen to me rave at the TV all night - suppose it has its humours moments, but when I start to repeat myself that I get worried. Maybe I've got torettes :o)

But I thought I'd share with you some of the things I've been raving about for the best part of two weeks - all very minor really, but hey they're always the most annoying aren't they ....

Median Strips: The median strip is designed so drivers that are turning right across the road can sit whilst they wait for a gap in traffic. Too many of you pull into it at the last second, leaving your butt sitting out in the left lane so no one can drive past. Don't do this - it's really bloody annoying - start moving into the median strip as soon as you start to slow down (yes you are allowed to). Then you are out of the way and traffic doesn't have to slow down for you and in many cases stop.

Indicating: New Zealanders (particularly Aucklanders) just can't seem to indicate to save themselves and the ones that do only do so for a maximum of 1-second. They seem to be of the opinion that other drivers are psychic and automatically know what their next random move will be. Mind you having psychic ability wouldn't help much as there rarely seems to be any conscience thought granted to their driving. For your information you are meant to indicate for a minimum of 3-seconds. And for the record, no I don't believe in psychics.

Net curtains & blinds: Everywhere you look there are net curtains or blinds or curtains blocking out all the sun, so houses are damp and smelly. Please open up your houses let the light in and live healthy. No wonder we suffer from Asthma and mouldy houses. Stuff trying to insulate all the houses in NZ - just let in some healthy sun each day and fresh air and we'll save the taxpayer 1-billion dollars. And that's another thing that pisses me (and housemate off), we've just spent a small fortune on insulation and heating for the house and now we have to pay for the every other blugger to have their houses done. At least by dying I won't have to pay for anymore of this kind of crap (see it is torettes) and most of the rest of you support either Labour, National, NZ First or Greens so it serves you right - you voted for it.

Privot: You see it everywhere - especially on Council and Transit NZ land. This is a weed, it spreads like wildfire and smothers any plant or forest it grows near. It is not suitable as a hedge and it is not an attractive tree for your garden - kill it.

Toothpaste ads: I don't know why - they just really, really annoy me. And they must all use the same advertising company.

Kissing pets: They seem to have stopped showing owners and pets touching mouths in adverts, finally. But why people kiss their pets or let their pets lick them is beyond me - surely they must know where their pets mouth has been. If you do this vile activity you should be required to have a warning tattooed on your forehead, so I can avoid kissing you.

I'm sure there's plenty more that I've temporarily forgotten about - I'll get them off my chest as they come to mind. What little things annoy you - go on entertain me?

Daffodil Day

2008-08-27T18:30:00.004+12:00

On Friday we have The Cancer Society's Daffodil Day.

Just thought I'd give you all an easy link so you can donate - or not - no pressure.

Hair today, gone tomorrow

2008-08-20T11:06:00.010+12:00

Just when I was wondering if the radiation was actually doing anything to my head, my hair fell out - so Carol got out the buzz cutters and I'm back to the commando look. I kind of look like this photo, but add on a gazillion kilograms and a big moon face and you'll get the picture - but not from me - I'm now advocating censorship.

I can tell you that cancer treatments is no beauty spa. What between the steroids, chemo, radiation and biopsies - I'm looking a little worse for wear. The only plus is the steroids make ones skin very smooth - just like a babys bottom. Fortunately for me I don't have to look at myself - tough luck for the rest of you.

Why not?

2008-08-15T20:31:00.010+12:00

Not a bad week actually. Have finally settled in to the house both physically and mentally. And also settled into the short life mentality. Had a couple of weeks of feeling rather sorry for myself with thoughts of 'why bother' about lots of things. But had a long meeting with my Haematologist on Thursday and talked about many things including just getting on with doing whatever and not worrying about the 'why' all the time. It was a great meeting actually, just what I needed at that point and I came away feeling less like I was eminently about to kick the bucket - which of course I'm not.

So this week in the pursuit of my new philosophy called 'why not', I had a long massage at Bliss. Have decided that dying whilst having ones feet, hands or head being massaged will be the ultimate. As opposed to just holding my hand, which will quite frankly just piss me off.

Yesterday I saw The Dark Knight with big brother at the Gold Class lounge. Very good movie actually, made even better by paying $30 per ticket to have food brought to my reclining leather seat - arhhh bliss all over again. Also had a very fine lunch at One Tree Grill - well worth a visit.

Olympics has occupied some of my time, but not enjoying it as much as I thought I would, although loved the cycling street races and of course the gymnastics. I see that the Chinese have taken on those incredibly annoying slapping tube things that the bloody netball fans use here in New Zealand. Being a libertarian I'm not in to banning as a rule, but that f*ing contraption should not only be banned but come with a death sentence. It has completely ruined netball in this country and if it continues will ruin most every sport in the world. Now it's typical when you gather woman together en mass that they turn the situation into a screaming, ear-piercing, witch-like noise fest. But when men are doing the same thing, you know we are all going to hell in a hand basket.