Homesick

I have lived for over 4 years now in Johannesburg, a 700 km (7 hours) drive away from my parents.  This is my home now, I work, I play and love Johannesburg, but every once in a while I really miss HOME.

They say home is where the heart is; my family is very important to me and every now and again my heart longs to be closer, to get a big hug and just know my parents are there :)


So normally how I deal with the home sickness is:
Email mom and let her know I love and miss Make a lovely HOME cooked meal to try and feel more HOMELY.

Play all the golden oldies and reminisce the holidays on the beach, music, sand and sun was always present.
Cuddle up with my favourite teddy bear and tug myself in tightly in bed.

Only 80 more sleeps then I get to see my parents again :)

only...

***82 sleeps till its Christmas***

HAPPY BDAY DAD

From morning till night
May your birthday be bright
And nicer than ever before……
And as years come and go
May your happiness grow
And your dreams be fulfilled
Even more

Happy Birthday DAD

** LOVE YOU LOTS **

 

FASHION!

BAG LADY:   In Paris, a model presents a creation by Belgian designer Dries Van Noten for his Spring Summer 2010 ready-to-wear collection. (Jacques Brinon, AP) (source www.news24.com)

 

Must say I have been looking at the various fashion weeks photos etc and really LOVE the colours!

Cant wait for summer gear to really settle in – going to be a summer full of colour, lots of GOLD jewelry!

 

FrIdAy

Friday :) - My second favorite day of the week (Sunday being my favourite)

 

Its TIE day at the office and everyone is looking very smart and cute.

The FD is wearing a BOW TIE (looking like a butler), drivers are wearing very smart shirts and tie, Stores Department are wearing Cow Boy Ties and I am wearing my pant braces and black tie.

 

Looking forward to the Birthday Party later this afternoon as well.

We have so much in-store, lovely eats, drinks, music and even a LUCKY DRAW!!

 

 

My year so far

 

January – Really hating my job and wishing that I could get out of recruitment!

 

February – offered a job (still in recruitment) and keen for a change, resigned on my birthday and was asked to leave 2 weeks earlier than expected.

Had my sister come visit and though it was a hectic week we still had a good time.

 

March – Started my new job.  Kinda was my own boss and had to learn to be very productive!

Went to Coke Fest and saw SNOW PATROL – was super cool!

 

April – Month full of holidays J Got to see the family again!

 

May – working like a machine – feeling depro that things are not working out so great L

Still partied allot with friends and just had some fun!

 

June – did my first semi PHOTOSHOOT was fun and learnt that a good photo speaks a thousand words.

Found out that I am being retrenched – heartbroken.

 

July – still trying to get a job and finally was offered a role – something different!

CHANGE IS AS GOOD AS A HOLIDAY!

 

August – working so hard, waking up extra early, travelling 2 hours a day

 

September – Its finally SPRING!

My family come and visit and we attend the wedding of James and Dionne my dear friends.

 

October – Its here and still enjoying my job!

Counting down to xmas already – ONLY 85 more SLEEPS!

 

TIE DAY!

Friday is TIE DAY!

 

We are having some fun at the office tomorrow with it being our TIE DAY!

Cant wait to see what the people come up with – we have a few creative brains in the office.

Will post a pic on Monday if I can get everyone to pose for the shot!

 

Ooooooooo I still have to make myself a tie!

Darn it leave everything for number 99.

 

DO AS I MEAN...

I really love getting instructions – then I know what to do and how to do it.

 

But some people give instructions, you complete the task (as instructions), then get told its ALL WRONG!

 

It’s a case of DO AS A MEAN NOT AS I SAY!

 

It drives me a little insane, as I get to look like a IDIOT!

Arrrgggggggggggh but now I have learned to question, question some more and even send a dummy out first.

I do not want to be spoon fed, but PLEASE! PLEASE! PLEASE! Tell me what you MEAN and SPEAK what you MEAN!

 

So lets see what happens – I give it 2 days and ill be writing about this again!

 

P.S. But it is only with ONE person?  Who is the common denominator?

 

ART CLASSES

I am soooooo excited!

Just last week I was talking to my friend about next year wanting to start taking art lessons again.

Low and Behold on Monday I got a leaflet with Art Classes being offered in my complex.

This is just so convenient! I can come home, grab a meal, go to class and no need to travel too far!

 

So I am off tonite to my FiRsT aRt cLaSs tonite – soooooooooooo excited!

 

Watch this space – hopefully my art will be good enough to show on the blog hehehe

 

 

SISTERS :)

A nice pic of my sister at the wedding – im peeking over her shoulder :)

SEAFOOD!

Ahhh I wish I could have seafood all day everyday!

 

Luckily for me we have been invited to join some friends Wednesday night for sushi :)

I am so excited as I can not remember when last I had some good sushi.

 

MMMMMMMMMMMM now I feel like some sushi for lunch!

MUST HAVE!

BIG SMILE!

-          It always seems to brighten up my day

-          Is highly infectious

 

 

the sun is out!

What a lovely weekend – the sun was out!

I actually spent some time in the sun – swimming, reading, gardening and fixing the table outside.

Ahhh cant wait for it to be really hot so we can laze away the days next to the pool

 

 

The best things in life are free.

 

Fresh Air

LOVE

Happiness

Moonlight

SMILES

Laughter

Cool breeze

HUGS

Kisses

Playfulness

Sunshine

Sea

Sky

Earth

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thought for the day

If you are still chasing a dream – your not running fast enough.

 

99 sleeps to CHRISTMAS

Oooooooooo I am like a little kid when it comes to Christmas :)

Really can’t wait this year is going to be a good one – with the WHOLE FAMILY together again!

SONG OF THE DAY

This song has been playing non-stop on the radio – its just gets me in a party mood!

 

I gotta feeling that tonight’s gonna be a good night
That tonight’s gonna be a good night
That tonight’s gonna be a good good night (x3)

Tonight’s the night night
Let’s live it up
I got my money
Let’s spend it up
Go out and smash it
Like Oh My God
Jump off that sofa
Let’s get get OFF

I know that we’ll have a ball
If we get down
And go out
And just loose it all
I feel stressed out
I wanna let it go
Lets go way out spaced out
And loosing all control

Fill up my cup
Mozoltov

Look at her dancing
Just take it off
Lets paint the town
We’ll shut it down
Let’s burn the roof
And then we’ll do it again

Lets Do it (x3)
And live it up
I gotta feeling that tonight’s gonna be a good night
That tonight’s gonna be a good night
That tonight’s gonna be a good good night (x2)
Tonight’s the night
Let’s live it up

I got my money
Lets spend it up
Go out and smash it

Like Oh My God
Jump off that sofa
Lets get get OFF

Fill up my cup (Drink)
Mozolotov (Lahyme)

Look at her dancing (Move it Move it)
Just take it off
Lets paint the town
We’ll shut it down
Lets burn the roof
And then we’ll do it again
Lets do it (x3)

Let’s live it up
Here we come
Here we go
We gotta rock
Easy come
Easy go
Now we on top
Feel the shot
Body rock
Rock it don’t stop
Round and round
Up and down
Around the clock

Monday, Tuesday,
Wednesday, Thursday,
Friday, Saturday,
Saturday and Sunday
Get get get get get

With us you know what we say
Party everyday p-p-p-party
Party everyday
I gotta feeling that tonight gonna be a good night
That tonight's gonna be a good night
That tonight's gonna be a good good night(x2)

AWKWARD PHOTOS?

Do you have a family photo that is just plain silly or awkward???

We all have them, mom dressed you up in a silly costume, or you where forced to take a PAID for family picture???

 

Check out this website for a good laugh!

 

http://awkwardfamilyphotos.com/

 

 

4 THINGS

TIPEX – CORRECTIVE PEN (whatever you call it) is AMAZING!

I have not used it since High school, but the company that I currently work for has supplied me with some, I am addicted!

Not by making mistakes and correcting them, but just being all creative, writing with them and then color over with high lighters :)

But then again small things amuse small minds hehehe

 

HATS are cool

Yeah they are – we had a fun HAT DAY for Spring Day yesterday and was so much fun.

Really think I should start wearing them more often – they can hide a bad hair day!

 

DIARIES

I need 7 to keep up with everything, but so useful!

Especially if you have a man in your life that cant remember anything – write it down and he can see and remember :)

 

FAX MACHINES

They still exist – what would we do without them?

Old school maybe, but works pretty well and some people can not live without them!

IM BACK!

Oooooooooooooooh my has been way to long!
But I am back and keen to start a fresh :)
Spring has made its way to South Africa and its finally the SUNNY SOUTH AFRICA I LOVE!

So watch this space - so much is gonna happen!

Loved this qoute for Spring day - this is how I feel

SPRING IS NATURE'S WAY OF SAYING, "LET'S PARTY!" ~ROBIN WILLIAMS

4 THINGS

Again I got the email with the 4 things - you would rather be going, where you have lived, who have you spoken to etc.

Been thinking it would be a good thing to add to the blog my 4 THINGS!

Today is 4 THINGS that MAKE ME HAPPY!

Getting Flowers when its not my birthday, anniversary or any special day. Just getting them out of the blue for no reason, makes me feel special.

SMILE RIGHT BACK AT YA.
Walking in the mall or street and I smile at someone and they smile back - this doesn't often happen in the city so always nice to see.

Getting kisses - yeah I am a romantic at heart and love being spoilt by kisses. Love it even when Matthew sends me a text and adds xxx - makes me feel super special!

Eating Cake or Cupcakes.
I just have a weakness for everything bad for me!
(Think I might stop at Cupcake Boutique again)

LESSONS LEARNT

Lessons Learnt

I missed out on writing Lessons Learnt as it was a Public Holiday – must say we are really spoilt in South Africa with all the holidays we get. Was a nice relaxing day with me doing as little as possible. I thought about what to write in the Lessons Learnt section and thought this week I would write about WORK and the lessons I have learnt.
I have been working since high-school doing part time jobs and worked full time after school, I have worked for different companies and with so many different people that I think in the last 6 years I have learnt a great deal about myself, what to do and WHAT NOT to do!

Always Be honest.
There is a old saying that I love – Honestly is the best policy.
I have always tried to be as honest as possible, it is not always easy, but easier than lying.
You can have peace in your heart that you were honest, admit you messed up and move forward.

FACE IT 2FACE
This is a very valuable lesson I have learnt, there are always going to be two-faced people, people you do not get along with or people who want to ruin you. You have to face up to it and get through it. You will be fine, but remember in every company there are people like this and you cannot escape it.

DO YOUR BEST
Yes, we all hate working sometimes. We feel that it is draining our lives etc. But always try and do your best. It saves time as you would not have to redo too much, you will be proud and will know you gave your all. You can always see how you need to improve etc.

BE ON TIME
People think that being 5 min late that no one will notice. In fact people do notice a GREAT DEAL! I remember at the one company I worked for I was always on time or early. I mean deadly punctual, one day I was 10 min late, everyone noticed, but my boss was nice about it and said no worries. I could be late at least one a week for a year and he did not mind. I set the foundation that I was always early from the start – good habit!

THINK before you SPEAK
We all sit in those boring meetings and people speak the whole time, no relevant information and generally waste people’s time. I always hope that oeioke would really think before they speak – to save everyone some time.

LUNCH
DO LUNCH – Really go out with co-workers, meet up with friends but get out of the office.
Even if you go and sit at another desk – get a proper break and get away from your office.
I tend to sit and chat and not really eat my meal, but at least you can be social and forget about work for one those few minutes.

KEEP YOUR DESK NEAT
This is one thing that drives me crazy – a messy desk is not a nice thing to see.
If you can thrive in mess than its ok, but make your desk neat and tidy before you leave at the end of the day.
I remember one co-worker being sick on day, her desk was a mess, I had to look for a file on her desk, when I was looking for it I found personal documents, half eaten candy and a ants nest on her desk. IT WAS A SCARY DESK!

DON’T BURN THE BRIDGES
You really don’t know who you might need in the future, so always leave a company with dignity and be civil of not nice.
You will need your pass employers as referees and you can’t ruin a relationship that could cost you a future job.

BE THANKFULL
You might not have the greatest salary in the world, but be thankful for your job.
There are so many people out there who have NOTHING, who have just lost jobs or can’t find jobs. Be thankful for the little cubical you might have, the salary you get, the co-workers and a BOSS!

PIC OF THE WEEK

Celebrate YOUTH day!
In South Africa this day is to celebrate our youth, our future and our country. The freedom that has been fought by all, but this day especially for the YOUTH of South Africa that sacrifices more than 30 years ago for every youth in South Africa to have a voice and rights.
History Lesson of youth day: When high-school students in Soweto started protesting for better education on 16 June 1976, police responded with teargas and live bullets. It is commemorated today by a South African national holiday, Youth day, which honors all the young people who lost their lives in the struggle against Apartheid and Bantu Education.

Confederation Cup
The Confed Cup has kicked off less than 24 hours ago and we are in the swing of things. Do yourself and try and get a ticket for at least one game! It is something magical to watch a live game.
I am ready for the Semi-finals next week and look forward to the road trip to Bloemfontein to see hopefully SPAIN!

SMS Bundles
Great day of saving money to sms – you will pay as little as 25c for a sms.
Not bad considering one almost pays R1 during normal hours.

Start a Diary
I am so lazy with this one, but have been thinking I should really keep up with it.
I used to write a diary almost every day from the age of about 10 years old, it always so funny to read what I wrote back in the day. So get starting, it does not have to be detailed, but can be used to capture memories for times when you have forgotten them.

Budget and start saving
YES YES YES – Recession recession recession
I have been hearing this non-stop since last year.
So what can one do? Check the net for advice as I see there are daily news article on advice for saving and budgeting.
Budgeting is key to see if you have enough to spend on and where you can possible cut back on.
I have done it and finally after so many years can finally SAVE properly!

BE THANKFUL
Got this email last week talking about being thankful.
You will never ever complain again about eating veggies or studying or having an old car.
There are people who have NOTHING – Absolutely nothing in this world!
I have just been told some bad news, that I might not have a job in a few months time… and guess what I am thankful for what I have.
I will survive, I will be able to get through this, I will be able to find something else… I AM THANKFULL!

FRIDAY FASHION

R400 or less


With the talk of recession and everyone adapting to spending a little less, I thought it would a R400 OR LESS outfit would be appropriate.


These items are available in most chain stores – so if you are sticking to a budget and looking for a look – LOOK NO FURTHER!



I am wearing Black Long Sleeve V-Neck Shirt (MR Price R35.99), Grey and White Waist Coat (MR Price R89.99), Blue Flare Jeans (Edgars KELSO R159.99) and Gold Shoes (MR Price *Sale 2007 – R99.00).

TOTAL COST = R384.97
(With the extra R15 you can get a cup of coffe or some hoop earrings)

Photography done by Bertus Ras www.bertusras.com @ Tuks University 2009, Model, Make-up and Styling done by Claudette (Me)

FASHION?

I loooooooooooooooooove fashion!




Not that I follow it or live bye it, but like trying out new things and experimenting. I am addicted to shows like Project Runway, Americas next top model, Fashionista and all the makeover shows!

My fashion sense is has no specific style, but if it is compy, looks good and hides anything that needs to be hidden I will wear it!
I love dark colors, blue, white and green (this all related to my star sign) and feel most confident when wearing a black suit.

FASHION FRIDAY
This will be what the newest post will be called, I will add some bargain finds, my look for the week, blogs to be recommended, hot or not or anything I can think of on that Friday.

So stay tuned every FRIDAY for your fix of some FASHION!

(Why did I chose Friday – this is always the day I ditch the regular work outfits for more fashionable wear)

PIC OF THE WEEK

It’s so cold and wanted to try and stick to the WINTER theme for my pics of the week.

BLOGGIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIING
On those cold night do some surfing on the web.
I would suggest reading a few blogs of other people, it’s really interesting what people write about.
I have been following www.keikolynn.blogspot.com as I really enjoy her DAILY fashion pics.
So start clicking on NEXT BLOG and see who is way what and when!

KNITTING
To do something different and give back to someone less fortunate?
I am starting next week to knit a few blocks so I can make a blanket to donate to a charity.

MAKE LOVE
Yes, keep warm with your lover 

WINTER CLEAN
Pack the summer wardrobe away and make more space in your cupboards.
It’s always a cleansing experience for me to give away unwanted items and clean.

TAKE MULTIVITAMINS
They really improve your immune system, to fight off any colds or flu bugging you.

EATING OUT
Winter is a time where restaurants are not that busy on week nights. Find a possible venue with fireplace for a lovely romantic evening out.

DANCING
Go dancing – it’s a perfect idea to keep warm and get out and have some fun.
Even more fun would be joining a dance class and learn a few new moves?

TORRES

The man of my dreams (only my dreams as I have an AMAZING BF allready) The Spanish HOTTIE Fenando Torres is coming to play is Sunny (Yet freezing) South Africa in the Confederations Cup. I have just bought my tickets and so excited to see him play right infront of me :) oooooooooooooooo going to be cold, but amazing to see real international players kick some butt! The other bonus is I get to see some of my family for the weekend!

Countdown has begun 13 sleeps!

SA ANTHEM

Learn it. Love it. Live it.

An IBurts initiate to help all South Africa’s learn the National Anthem – no we are not stupid, but after 15 years most people still sing it wrong or don’t know the words to the somg.

Most countries pride themselves in knowing that each citizen knows the anthem and can sing it. Not the case in South Africa! We sang “Die Stem” for so many years and in 1994 when south Africa changed to a new government so did the National Anthem to Nkosi Sikeleli iAfrica.
For most young South Africans is was easy to adapt to the new song as schools learned it and sang it at each assembly, but for the older generation it was a little difficult to adapt to the 5 different languages used in one song!

So now in 2009 - after 15 YEARS of the Nkosi Sikeleli iAfrica we finally get a website www.myanthem.co.za to teach us the history, meaning and words of the song.

I went on to investigate, interactive website where you can learn the history and meaning (5 Different languages used and the meaning of each verse) of our national anthem, you can download the song and enter competitions. FANTASTIC.


So here is the full translation of our national anthem – BEAUTIFUL!
Proudly South African

BERTUSRAS = GENIUS!

www.bertusras.com

The man behind the camera is a self-thaugh GENIUS photographer in my opinion!
THANK YOU for making me FAB and SEXY in these pics :)
Look forward to doing a shoot again!


Ampitheater at TUKS

Wayne Brady

You just have to see this guy LIVE!

This talented artist has captivated us for years now on Who’s Line is it Anyway? and more recently Don’t Forget the Lyrics. He is highly talented entertainer, a comic genius, master of improvisation and you can see entertainment runs through his veins! He has even been nominated for a GRAMMY for best r&b male singer this year!

I had the privilege to go and see him at Carnival city this weekend, I did not have the best seats in the house, but with big screens in the arena it felt like we were in front row. This show is fully improvisational, music, comedy, singing and even dancing all based with the audience participation.
Audiences were giggling, laughing out loud and even gave a standing ovation – something not often seen in SA.
This was a top class act and this his material is always fresh, everyone relates young and old.

He is heading off to Cape Town today to do a few shows in the Mother City – to book log onto www.computicket.com.
Good luck Wayne with the shows in Cape Town – the mother city will be proud to host you.

Just one thing that really disappointed me was the fact that M-Net that was sponsoring this event did not advertise ENOUGH!
In SA that is key to pulling the crowds, by actually letting EVERYONE know the man is in town, on radio, tv, billboards and not a week before the time!

Look out for his CD on www.AMAZON.COM (They do deliver to SA again)
More info on Wiki http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayne_Brady

PICS OF THE WEEK

SOUP OF THE DAY
It is winter and good idea for lunch is SOUP. I would recommend the Mexican Chicken Soup from Mugg and Bean, but if your budget is a little tight pop over to your nearest groceries store and pick up ‘n R* packet of Cup of Soup, or just make your own? Either way it’s a good way to keep warm and get some veggies into your diet.

GOLDEN OLDIES
Google music from the 60’s or any decade you would see as the GOLDEN OLDIES and ENJOY the the sound of REAL MUSIC.

GIVE BACK
Check in your house for things you have not returned to people, there is always a jersey, board game or coller box. Call up the person and arrange to drop off, it’s a good way to pop by and see friends you have not seen in ages?!

HAHAHA - COMEDY SHOW
Have booked my tickets for WAYNE BRADY at Carnival City –excited to see an international comedy act like his. Did some research too and have just realized we have about 5 venues in a 10 km radius of my house that does COMEDY NIGHTS. I will be checking out the venues and let you know what I think. (Parkers Comedy and Jive, Tanz Café, Cool Runnings, Jet Night Club and Tony’s Pizza has Open Mic)

FACEBOOK
Switch off Facebook for a week, change your status, add a funny pic of yourself – see the comments!

OOPS
Google a movie you know really well, check if you can find out about the bloopers or mistakes in the movie - see if you can spot them when you watch it again.

SONG OF THE DAY!

Listen to it on YOUTUBE.COM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nU0Lqt8t9Ig

Milky - Just the Way You Are

Turutu, Turuturutu
Turutu, turuturutu
And it goes

The way you walk
The way you understand me
The way you move
The way you just whisper me
The way you touch
The way you used to kiss me
I want to just
just the way you are

your still the same
don�t ever change
I want you just the way you are everyday now
Say you stay
don't go away
I love you just the way you are
the way you are

The way you talk
The way you movin� closer
The way you kiss
The way you did beside me
cause everytime
Everytime I think about you
I want you just
just the way you are(x8)

JUMP JUMP JUMP!

JUMP FOR JOY! JUMP FOR FUN! JUMP JUMP JUMP!







As a kid I used to love jumping on the trampoline for hours, it was the most fun you could have on a sunny day :)
This weekend while staying at Monateng Game Farm (close to Pretoria) Matthew and I just had to go play in the park. We went down the slides, thru the tunnels and jumped on the trampoline. (As seen in the Action Shots) It was so much fun to just PLAY and have FuN like a KiD again!
Guess the older you get the more you miss your youth... it is wasted on them, cos they do not realise what they have!

SHOCK (Static)

You walk across the rug, reach for the doorknob and..........ZAP!!! You get a static shock.

This weekend and today at work think I have shocked myself senseless :)
Going to do some googling about Static Schock and if there are any experiments I can test out. I never really understood science but love the experiments!

Better go get that white lab coat as to make sure I am ready for the experiments!
Will keep you posted.

Romatic at Heart

aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah gotta love the LOVE :)

Mental over the MENTALIST!

I don’t know what it is?

Is it the sexy cast including Simon Baker (Patrick Jane), Owain Yeoman (Wayne Rigsby) and the famous guest stars?
Or is it the intrigue of trying to figure it out with the Mentalist who the killer is?
Or is it the fascination that without any SUPER POWERS, but with pure OBSERVATION the Mentalist always figures it out?
Or is it that the Mentalist is an average (deadly handsome) man, seeking the killer of his wife and child?
Or or or???

I love the fact that the episodes are all independent from each other, if you miss a few episodes you can catch up easy, without getting too LOST!
The fact is it is a BRILLAINT show, the comic timing is good, one never knows really who the killer is till the end and SIMON BAKER IS HOT HOT HOT!

Only 4 more episodes left of the first season – so try and catch at least ONE.
MNet Wednesday evening 20:30 and repeats on SERIES on Sunday 15:00.
























Viewers mental for Mentalist
28/05/2009 22:10 - (SA) / See full article on www.news24.com

Los Angeles - Television crime drama The Mentalist was not only the best new show of 2009, it also boasted the sexiest cast, according to a viewers poll released on Thursday at the close of the 2008-09 US TV season.
The Mentalist, CBS's program starring Australian actor Simon Baker as a police consultant with acute observational powers, took 58% of ballots cast for top new program.
The cast of The Mentalist, which includes Robin Tunney, also was overwhelmingly deemed the sexiest cast, beating teen high society favorites Gossip Girl and 90210.
A winning 56% decided that Baker, 39, had the best comeback from his appearance in the short-lived drama Smith in 2006.
The poll was conducted by AOL Television between May 22-27 and attracted a total of 353 953 votes.

Lessons Learnt

This is going to be a new feature - will add once a month the LESSONS LEARNT from various scenarios in my life regarding dating, cooking, friendship etc. ENJOY!

I have dated 14 guys in my life (since the age of 5) and these are the lessons I have learnt from each of them :)

Kissing secretly is fun, but if he is kissing you secretly all the time what is he hiding???

He is just not into you – get over it!

Making a girl kiss you in public for the first time isn’t cool.

Kissing for hours is fun, but know when to draw the line.

Dating the Jock is awesome, but people make assumptions.

Your longtime crush might be (always is) an asshole!

Never let a guy make you feel unworthy of his time.

Don’t ever let a guy break up with you without you knowing it. If he cant do it face to face he is not a man.

A real man will always do the right thing – Even if it means breaking up with you.

A person has to love you for who you are and whom you will become – they will give you space to grow.

Always be open and honest. Don’t say you love someone when you don’t mean it!

If he will not fight for you, he is not worth your time.

If he can’t introduce you to his friends or parents he is using you.

A man should treat you like his Queen at all times!

A FEW THINGS

4 names you go by – Claudette, ClaudiClauds, Tokkelossie and Babe

3 things you are wearing right now - Jean Pants, Boots and Underwear

3 things you want very badly at the moment - A Cup of Tea, The day off and A foot massage

3 things you did OVER THE WEEKEND - Went to the movies, Had a awesome Lunch at Meat Co. and Went out to Billy’s

2 things you ate today - Nothing yet

1 Person you last talked to on the phone - Mom last night on the pone.

2 Things you are going to do tonight – Sleep and Watch the Mentalist

2 favourite beverages – TEA and Juice / Smoothies

Thought For The Day...

Have you ever wondered if the one hundred rand/dollar/pound bills in your
wallet were ever in a stripper‘s butt crack?

If not, you're wondering now.

More thought: in Nigeria they believe that urinating on your money will return it to you!

HAHA

The 'Middle Wife' by an Anonymous 2nd grade teacher

I've been teaching now for about fifteen years. I have two kids myself, but the best birth story I know is the one I saw in my own second grade classroom a few years back.

When I was a kid, I loved show-and-tell. So I always have a few sessions with my students It helps them get over shyness and usually, show-and-tell is pretty tame. Kids bring in pet turtles, model airplanes, pictures of fish they catch, stuff like that. And I never, ever place any boundaries or limitations on them. If they want to lug it in to school and talk about it, they're welcome.

Well, one day this little girl, Erica, a very bright, very outgoing kid, takes her turn and waddles up to the front of the class with a pillow stuffed under her sweater.

She holds up a snapshot of an infant. 'This is Luke, my baby brother, and I'm going to tell you about his birthday.'

'First, Mom and Dad made him as a symbol of their love, and then Dad put a seed in my Mom's stomach, and Luke grew in there. He ate for nine months through an umbrella cord.'

She's standing there with her hands on the pillow, and I'm trying not to laugh and wishing I had my camcorder with me. The kids are watching her in amazement.

'Then, about two Saturdays ago, my Mom starts saying and going, 'Oh, Oh, Oh, Oh!' Erica puts a hand behind her back and groans. 'She walked around the house for, like an hour, 'Oh, oh, oh!' (Now this kid is doing a hysterical duck walk and groaning.)

'My Dad called the middle wife. She delivers babies, but she doesn't have a sign on the car like the Domino's man. They got my Mom to lie down in bed like this.' (Then Erica lies down with her back against the wall.)

'And then, pop! My Mom had this bag of water she kept in there in case he got thirsty, and it just blew up and spilled all over the bed, like psshhheew!' (This kid has her legs spread with her little hands miming water flowing away. It was too much!)

'Then the middle wife starts saying 'push, push,' and 'breathe, breathe. They started counting, but never even got past ten. Then, all of a sudden, out comes my brother. He was covered in yucky stuff that they all said it was from Mom's play-center, (placenta) so there must be a lot of toys inside there. When he got out, the middle wife spanked him for crawling up in there.'

Then Erica stood up, took a big theatrical bow and returned to her seat. I'm sure I applauded the loudest. Ever since then, when it's show-and-tell day, I bring my camcorder, just in case another 'Middle Wife' comes along.

PICS OF THE WEEK

FANCY SMANCHY!
Go have a lovely dinner, lunch or breakfast at a fancy restaurant.
It’s a nice way to do something different if your budget allows and you can dress up.

PROFESSIONAL PORTRAIT
This is a way to capture your image, for yourself and others to remember you by when time has passed.

MOVIES ARE BETTER ON THE BIG SCREEN
Be one of the first to see the movie – or be the last – JUST GO AND WATCH A MOVIE
Nothing beats the pop corn and big screen
Very easy to book online at www.sterkinekor.com and saves some time.

PHONE A FRIEND
Call a friend or family member you have spoken to in a while.
Make a connection and stay in touch – feel that with technology that human element is lacking in most relationships.

HIGH TEA at NOON
The age old English tradition of having TEA.
Have TEA and spoil yourself with some sandwiches, biscuits, cupcakes and serve in REAL TEA CUPS!
Really an experience and think by spoiling yourself with the little things in life is wonderful!
Even better invite someone over for high tea and enjoy the merriment of company :)

Maybe??

Definitely Maybe – this is the movie I watched on Sunday.
A really chick flick, but really good.
But got me thinking MAYBE is a stupid word!

It is either yes or no in my books.
A MAYBE is only valid if you can come back with a YES or a NO.
A MAYBE is not cast in stone, it is not a definite and people cannot plan anything with a MAYBE.

Like for example, I invited people to my birthday party in Feb – do you know how many maybe’s I got?
12 YES 12 people who did not know YES or NO. Out of the 12 only 2 made up their minds and said YES.
The other 10 where still thinking about it – like what else could I do on that day, or ill see last minute and arrive if I don’t have anything better to do.
Out of the “maybe” YES people only one showed up???
What is up with that??

I mean – Have a look at the invite of the event, check your diary, check with whomever your suppose to and say YES or NO.
It’s as easy as that! People can then plan the event with the right amount of foods, chairs etc?
Sooooooooooooooooo this is my motto to say YES or NO – never MAYBE!
It really is like saying to a kid, maybe we can go to Disney land???
Maybe what??? What is that suppose to be??? So should I hold my breath for a yes or no???

Maybe is banned from my vocab – YES OR NO!
YES OR NO – Not both just one!
YES YES YES YES!!!

Faces

Totally random and had to add this to my blog!

I was a little bored and took some pics of me - Hahahaha
Really had fun and you can see that I really dont care what I look like :)
Gotta love the FULL TEETH IN YOUR FACE PIC

(Please feel free to comment on this masterpiece)

Brrrr

Finally it is Winter in Johannesburg!
I have never really loved Winter, always seen it as dull and dreary, but this year I am embracing it!

It is time for electric blankets, heaters, cuddling in bed, making soup, hot chocolate and staying indoors.
VIVA Winter VIVA! This is going to be my new favourite season :)

Secrets...

I really do love keeping secrets!
(Not bad ones but the things that people tell me, that I can not tell anyone else)

Silverstar

This casino based in Krugersdorp (Mogale City) is a small but lovely venue. Really unlike any casino's I have ever seen. I must say the BEST part of the place must be the Fountain, every 30 min there is a 5 min show. Really awesome and at night you can really enjoy the water with a rainbow of color lights adding so much MORE! Have a look at the clips below of the 3 shows i captured. GO AND HAVE A LOOK - Its a nice day out! :)

Nature

Nature is all around us... yet is seems that we have lost touch with it?
I grew up soaking up the sun each day at school, breathing in the fresh air and enjoying the ocean breexe. Now 5 years later I am sitting here and wondering when last I experienced that?? It has been a while and way too long.
I can see how people tend to forget about Nature, living the concrete jungel, matchboxes for houses, small gardens and limited to everything GREEN! This life has made it so very easy to forget the GREEN GREEN GRASS, TREES, FLOWERS...

This weekend Matthew and I are going to do some exploring in nature. It is winter and not that green, but will be fun. I am really looking forward to getting out the house and getting in some fresh air.

Ahhhhhhhhhhh scarf, hat, jersey, blanket and Nature with my boy sounds like a perfect weekend out.

Men - WHY??

Just a few things men do that I just don’t understand?

TOILET SEAT (UP)
Down please that is what I prefer – don’t get why men don’t just do it.

EMPTY CARTON
Yes milk cartons with no milk get placed back in the fridge – for what reason?

GAMING
Ok so I love gaming too but cannot sit the ENTIRE day playing some battle game.

BEING NAKED
Men just don’t seem to care about this, will walk around the house in just their underwear – SO UNATTRACTIVE.
Please put a shirt on I say!

SEXY PICS OF LADIES
Great to see you are interested, but do they all have to be so hot and seriously airbrushed?
Come on do you know they do not REALLY look like that in real life????

WEARING THE SAME THING OVER AND OVER
Please don’t do it – change the shirt and pants from yesterday.

SHORT SHOWER TIMES
Do you get to wash everything that needs to be washed???

SHAVING ONLY WHEN ASKED
Please please just shave that beard already!

WATCHING WWE (Wrestling)
This is not sport and such a waste of time.

PICS OF THE WEEK

5 PICKS FOR THE WEEK:

1. STUDY!
If you are writing an exam or test i advise you to study - less stressful

2. Visit CUPCAKE BOUTIQUE (Lonehill)
Yum yum yum - really good value for money and will be a treat!

3. Send a random email to a friend.
This should just be a random message of Hi and catch up.

4. Send Flowers
Yes yes send flowers to someone you care about - just ordered my mom flowers to say I miss her and think she will be suprised!

5. Google your name

LOL wait... LMAO

http://www.textsfromlastnight.com/

Check this website for some random messages from last night - (DRUNK) people actually send these messages to other people and have a read to LAUGH YOUR LIL BUTT OFF!

Enjoy - some of the messages are bad so be warned!

Some of my favourites for the day:

You are possibly the most enthusiastic, likable bad influence I've ever met.

The new term for farting is butt boxing.

Your horoscope this morning...very interesting...good luck today

Obsession...

Things I am semi-obsessed with:

Music – cannot live without it and love listening to the golden oldies.
Brushing my teeth – cannot leave the house without it.
Eating Chocolates – spoil me with Flowers and Chocolates and you are my hero!
Men in Bark Colors – I just love the way it looks and drives me wild.
Earrings – LOVE THEM AND WISH I HAD MORE!
Decorating – If I could I would do this all day everyday!
Taking pictures – A little obsessed when I take my camera with to an event.
TV – Really love watching anything and everything.
Facebook – I just have to know what is happening and who is doing what.
Emailing – This is one thing I can sit and do all day – just like writing even tho not very well I enjoy it.
Blogging about myself – if not me who else :)

%^&*

Four letter words are just my favourite way of expressing myself - please leave me the %&*%$ alone!!!

CRUNCH TIME

Had to study my lil butt off for my exam on Monday, but just didn't get around to it.
So lets see in the next few weeks what the results will be???
HOLDING THUMBS

STATUS

Gotta love some of the things people have to mention in their status via TWITTER and FACEBOOK.

From silly things like “I HATE THE WORLD”, “I cant get enough of you baby”, “Gym was GREAT”, “I’m hungover”, “is thinking what if this is it” and then the totally random “…”

If I was updateing my facebook this morning this is how it would be:

Cant get out of bed – please can I stay and cuddle.

Hate not doing grocery shopping and expecting to see food in the fridge.

So nothing fits me anymore – need to lose weight or get new cloaths.

Just got paid :)

Just paid everything and averyone that needed to be paid.

Im soooooo broke :(

Stuck in traffic.

No tea in the office and milk is sour :(

Off to meeting – all good.

Sent CV’s to client and can now start all over again.

Should start writing my report, but addicted to the www and need to get some surfing in.

Ok its 10 am need to try and get some coffee.

All of this just in 2 hours???
That is why I do not update my status all the time :)

SO

Today I am back at the office after yet another relaxing weekend on the coast.
I have realized that there are a few words that I really should stop using, not only the swear-words but words like SO, YEAH and the all confusing JA-NEE. This weekend I listened to a friend of my saying that he hated the word “so” and dumped his one gf because she said it too (SO) often. I thought it was (SO) silly till I realized I said SO (SO very much) often. (SO) My mission for this week is to (SO) get over the word and use it for what it is was meant for. This will be (SO) fun to see if I can actually change my habit of speaking – as I (SO) often speak hehehe.
(SO) Watch this space and I will give some feedback on my progress.

(Please note all the SO’s added in the above text is where I would SO probably use them)

Drink like a fish???

I never understood this term really - but this weekend I drank a FISHBOWL and now I understand the term.

Fishbowls are meant for fishes or people that drink like fishes :)

PICS OF THE WEEK

5 PICKS FOR THE WEEK:

1. Go and see a comedy show
(Good for the mind and soul as for a few hours you can just laugh at others and forget about your problems)

2. Take a trip to the coast at least once a year
(Fresh air will do you good)

3. Read books about fairies, gremlins and anything magical
(They open the mind to imagination)

4. Write a journal in your own words.
(Keepsake for when you are older and can no longer remember what you got up to)

5. Act like a monkey every now and again - just let loose

Dear Diary,

So started this game plan of mine, the six simple steps to a better me 

• Registered for the B.Com officially start in July with my 2 modules
• Tried to study and will continue next week again.
• Changes my attitude at work and IT WORKED – Actually got allot done today.
• Did the Budget and will be buying my plane ticket on the 31st of August
• Creating a wall of photography next weekend – just need to buy frames this weekend on the coast and maybe take some photographs too.
• Last night met up with friends in Sales and gave me some advice to keep your chin up and to work smart.

So far so good – I actually think that anything is possible if you REALLY put your heart and soul into it.
It’s all about the blood, sweat and tears!

Also wanted to add this to the list - GET OUT THE HOUSE MORE!

Toodles off to the coast to soak up some winter sun!

Making a change...

Sooooooooooooooo it’s back at the office today.

Been thinking allot about studies and where I want to be in next few years.
Do I want to be rich, do I want to be famous or do I want to do something different???

I have had this idea of going overseas since well I was in school – to see the world and gain international exposure.
Lately I have just felt a little stuck in one place, yet I have made so many changes.
My theory is growing stronger and stronger each day if you don’t change the feeling you have inside, you will never feel complete – NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE! Even if I sold everything, packed my bags and jetted off – I still would not be entirely complete!

My mission is to truly discover a passion this year, been difficult as I have so many. I love to create things, from beading a necklace, to redoing and old shirt. I want to be creative every day. I want to be outside and souk up the sun and air. I want to be ME – is that such a bad thing.
I want to own my own company – I WANT TO ADD TO MY COUNTRY! I want to create opportunities for others… I want to make a difference.

So yeah not allot of time I have given myself to make this DIFFERENCE.
Have devised a plan for now just a simple 6 step process… to see if I can do this… I have 7 months to do these 6 steps! Sounds easy???


1.Complete Short Course in HR (May)

2.Register for B.Com and complete 2 Modules (Going to need this in the future) – (June – Dec)

3.Do well in my current job and change the “attitude” (NOW)

4.Go on that all important holiday and soak in all the INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL one can do in a week. (Dec)

5.Be more positive with what I have – create at home by redoing some of the furniture, clothes, desks, canvasses whatever I can get my hands on. You don’t need to buy all the special equipment and gadgets just yet. Create with what you got is more exciting! (NOW)

6.Interact with people who are doing well in their lives and get advice – might not own the company now but can find advice on building that stepping stone. (NOW!)

Seven months it is and counting – let’s see what happens!
HAPPINESS IS HERE AGAIN – I actually feel more positive just writing down my plans!

Me, me and me :)

This is a picture I took with my cell phone in Feb 2009 - Really think this is one of my better pics taken. - LOVE BLACK AND WHITE!
So wanted to write more about me me me as I love myself and not ashamed of it :)
My teachers always said you must love yourself before you can love others, I battled allot with truly loving myself in the past... But now I have no problems!

Here is a few things about me you might not have known:

• I am afraid of frogs – so much so that I will burst into tears!
• I love tea and feel it is a treat to have someone make it for me.
• I have never collected anything in my life before (seriously NOTHING).
• I am fascinated by various religions and finding out more about them.
• I always worry about what people think of me because I care what they think of me.
• If I had my life over I would have studied harder, partied harder and be more adventurous.
• I spend most of my day behind a desk and can keep myself entertained for hours.
• Chocolates are part of my daily diet 
• I could live without a phone of pc – but need to have ppl around me.
• Secretly I wish I was famous.
• I don’t like makeup, but feel I have to wear it.
• I have bad habits I can’t get rid of, watch too much TV and chew nails.
• I have blue eyes, naturally brown hair and am considered short.
• I hate talking about other people or gossiping but tend to do it allot.
• I have a creative nature and love trying new things.


Ok thats enough now :)

Shaping my tomorrow…

I have registered to vote and ready to shape my tomorrow by making my X.
It is the first time I am voting and so excited.
I have it within my power to make a say for what I believe in and what I want my country to be.

GO OUT AND VOTE 22 APRIL 2009 for SOUTH AFRICA
– Vote for who you believe will make this place better for all of us.
Shaping my tomorrow, your tomorrow and our tomorrow together

Trees

(This picture was taken in December 2006 with my camera I got for Xmas)

Got to love the magestic image of it, so delicate yet so hard with the thorns and hight.

Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeekend baby :)

yeah yeah yeah so its the weekend (finally)!
So dont have that much planned for the weekend except for watching some sport, going round to the hockey to support, 21st birthday dress up party (im going as Marge Simpson), chill and hopefully get some studying done.
So all be safe and will be back blogging on Monday about the weekend.

:)Toodles

DREAMS

Last night was very weird wrt my dreams.
Must be that I watched Fringe or something but kept on dreaming that I was locked in a tnnel with limited air to breath. I became a pale and sad person???
WEIRD WEIRD - But it must be Fringe.
HAVE TO STOP WATCHING IT - ITS BAD FOR MY DREAMS.

Photography

So stumbled onto this photgrapher Sean Brand this week.
He took amazing photo's at the Coke Zero Festival 2009 I attended this weekend.
Have contacted him and convinced him to get a BLOG :) to showcase his work.

www.seanbrand.blogspot.com

PERSONAL GOALS FOR APRIL!

• Reach work target.
• Have a romantic weekend (Easter Weekend)
• Study for exams daily!
• Register for BCOM (R900)
• Go to gym at least 4 times a week
• Loose 3 kg’s
• Eat healthier (Drink more water / NO TAKE AWAYS)
• Save money around the house / saving electricity etc.

IM BACK!

So it has been a while since I have been able to blog...
Just been doing allot of thinking and thought I better start blogging again :)

So... IM BACK!
Whoop whoop here is a toast to Claudette being back and blogging again!

Izette Fourie (RIP)

I have been trying to process what has happened and it just has not sunk in...

I lost one of my closest friends (one of the three muskateers) yesterday morning.
She was an amazing person who touched my heart and soul.
We had ups and downs, but she was ALWAYS there no matter what.

You will be sorely missed my dear friend.
I know that you lived your life to the full and were on the right track, I know you are in a better place right now my friend.
I LOVE YOU LOTS AND YOUR MEMORY WILL LIVE ON FOREVER!

Grandpa(ppies) 80th Birthday

Brunette

You can take a Blond or Red to bed…

but you will never have any sleep with a Brunette

 

This is my favorite quote for the week :0)

anyone got a toothpic?

 

(My fav word this week)

 

H

 

E

 

Y

 

 

Wise Words

"To be free is not merely to cast off one's chains, but  to live in a way that enhances the freedom of others" - Nelson Mandela

 

H2O

WATER... HOT BODS... GOOD MUSIC... MUST BE H2O!

Whowhoooooooooooooooooooooooo!
It was pretty cool!

Ellen, Matthew, Tye and me :0)

102

102 DAYS / SLEEPS LEFT of the YEAR 2007

 

How scary is that random little fact right there?

 

Time for a Song!

San-Mari a dear dear friend of mine send me the below email and it was just soooooooooooooooooo fitting.

I was having one of those days!

 

Thanks San YOU ARE THE BEST!

:0)

 

I like the HATE SONG BETTER tho!?

 

_____________________________________________________

 

From: San-Mari Swart
Sent: 12 September 2007 01:47 PM
To: Claudette Crouch
Subject: time for a song

 

...Barney:

 

I love you, you love me, we're a happy family...

 

..with a great BIG hug....

 

 

This is suited for ages 6 and under, so I do believe it would be appropriate for the occasion?

 

 

On this day

1977

- Convicted murderer Hamida Djandoubi is the last person executed by the guillotine in France.

CHANGE IS AS GOOD AS A HOLIDAY