The hourglass figure

Some ladies and I measured our vital statistics
(aren’t womanfolk odd)
Most surprised to find I possess the perfect hourglass
according to the measurements and ratios
All these years I just thought I had a massive butt!
Isn’t life great;
positivity can be found in everything
I love myself just the way I am.

The beard of knowledge

Really flattered today. I was asked to consider an off campus part-time marking/teaching role for a NZ tiertiary institution. “We usually require a post grad qualification…” - I definitely don’t have one of those. “You are an outstanding student and technical writer…” – Err… thanks, I’ve been one for all of about 9 months! But keep on with the compliments eh, I don’t mind at all!

I see it all just as the beginning of achieving my goal of becoming NZ’s technical writing poster girl! The industry could definitely do with a shake up. The time is nigh. Rome wasn’t built in a day and all that, but still, watch this space…

In saying all that, a few years ago I never would have believed I would be working for myself, let alone aiming to actually stand up and be noticed. Part of it’s that underlying determined streak I was born with, but a lot of it is due to the really cool people around me in their various guises. Whether they realise it or not, they are a continuous source of inspiration and motivation for me. Thanks y’all - love u lots :)

Ladies will appreciate this

If you’ve spent much time around me, you’ll know that I’m pretty much a low key jeans and t-shirt sort of gal. Every now and then I make an effort, but I’m really a tomboy at heart. That was until earlier this year when I took an evening class in style and fashion. I was quite surprised at how much I enjoyed it and how much it motivated me.

I am a woman; obviously I don’t need a lot of motivation to shop! More to step outside my comfort zone every now and then and try different things to see what works. Admittedly, sometimes the results are particularly tragic, but other times I feel like a million bucks. The best part is how much fun I have playing dress-ups just like I'm eight again!

My tutor told me the art of being stylish comes down to buying wisely and co-ordinating well. Did you know that most people wear 10% of their clothes 90% of the time? So this week I’ve put it all to the test. Every couple of months I head off for a few days of business/pleasure in Wellington. I always end up lugging this humungus bag around and most of its contents come home unworn. Last time the airport even plastered a HEAVY BAGGAGE >20KG sticker on it!

Not this time. Six days. A 3-day conference. Business meetings. Nights out on the town. Rugged adventures. What have I packed in my bag? My own personal record of only 14 separate articles of clothing. Please bear in mind it's wild windy Wellington, not known for its tropical climate. Wearing an average of 3 garments at any one time with no repetitive ensembles, I am ready to step out looking stylish for any and all occassions.

I’m taking bets on how many articles will come back unworn this time. See if I can get down to 10 items or less by next trip. I prefer to travel light…

Today

I came across this poem written by NZ author Anne-Louise Philpott back before I was even born. I really liked it though; some days I can really relate and I've great admiration for those who can smile at themselves through their own confusion.

TODAY
I've smoked
a little
McKuen,
read a
banana
or four
eaten my
correspondence
and posted
a packet
or more
and TOMORROW
I"ll run
over my
hair with
a toothless
comb,
stalk in
a park
or three,
fritter an
hour or
two typing,
and wonder
what's
happening
to me.