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Monday 22 December 2008

Will the real Dorothy Dix, please stand up!




I can still hear the words of my father, "Here comes Dorothy Dix!" and yet for years, never quite understood who this character was, and why my father insisted on comparing me to her? "WHO ON EARTH IS DOROTH DIX?" I'd ask. He would never explain, but came to an understanding this mystery woman, had some mighty resemblance to me, it was always Dorothy, never any other name. As years went by, there'd be moments where I'd recollect and associate the moments this statement would be made to me. "Why you want to help so many people all the time, is beyond me...." this usually right after I would be sharing my concerns for another in need...my concerns often proceeded by news that I'd managed to find a way to assist someone, or pleading with my parents to allow some 'lost sorry old soul' into our home..."Ahhhh! Dorothy Dix!" my dad would mutter, and so I became to believe this person just must have been like me, the 'good samaratin', the one who 'had all the answers' yet had such a hard time sorting out her own life?? haha Well, after a search of Google and the helpful folk from http://www.ask.com/ I finally investigated the name, I had to know if this woman existed! Surprise surprise!! She did! Thanks to the history pages of the internet I can now identify the reasons behind my father's constant remark.
Born November 18th, 1861, as Elizabeth Meriwether Gilmer, this lady and I do share some similarities....spooky! Please read on!


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

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

Dix was the most widely read woman writer of her times, women and men sought advice from her for over fifty years. At the peak of her popularity around 1940 her writings were printed in 273 newspapers and read by an estimated 60 million people. Her career as an investigative newspaper reporter included twenty years as one of the most widely known woman reporter of her time.
Miss Dix died of a heart problem at the age of 90. “For over fifty-five years her name appeared over the column in which she gave advice to the lovelorn and which was noted for its sympathy, common sense and realism.” She left an estate to her family of two and a half million dollars. Much hard work, diligence and smarts had made the lowly paid reporter to the best known and highest paid woman journalist in the country.
-----------
During the years of my 1st marriage, I too had dreamed of becoming a journalist, but those aspirations never came to pass, not until later in my life where my writing took me down many new paths! Gaining more information about this woman, has placed a special place in my heart, an endearment for a lady I never knew yet have a great deal of respect for. Thanks dad!


Sunday 14 December 2008

Internet connections

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



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

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

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

Monday 14 July 2008

Ministry Misplaced

Are you misplaced?
This is a special message going out to ALL women of the world!
As a Christian woman, I have a yearning to be closer to God, to listen more to His word and to walk closer in his steps. This hasn’t been an easy task, and it is something many of us shy away from in conversations. Why?
Why are we so ashamed of who we are? Why do some of us lack the courage, the conviction to tell others how we truly feel?
Today I received a phone call from one of my dear Diva sisters, [not sure what a diva sister is, look us up here
http://www.boomernation.com] and as always, she spoke words to me that hit home!
She shared an interesting, but oh so powerful article,
Let me say it another way. Do you feel as if you have been forgotten, or you don’t know where you belong? A feeling of despair, anguish, pain and continual suffering….these are just some of the emotions that afflict our soul, and as women, we often feel we get what we deserve. We have a little tape-recorder playing inside our head, one that can become stuck, repeating the same words over and over…until we believe them, and act upon them!
Back to my earlier phone call-
Ora Stearns Smith, CEO & founder of Ora International, a ministry committed to spreading the Good News, around the world. Ora is a visionary, and is MY vision! We met through the Diva network, a wonderful group of ladies, all over 40, all striving to make a difference in this world. Her words are like jewels to me, each one is as precious as she, and words that we as women, all need to hear!
Today’s call was like all others, a blessing! But today, apart from her own visions and hopes for us, Ora shared the words taken from a recent BYU Women’s Conference; Awake, Arise, and Come Unto Christ, as told by Sheri Dew.
Sheri spoke of sisters, coping with every situation imaginable. Those who have
never been happier and others, still grappling with unseen ordeals, weeping into their pillows at night, but putting on that ‘brave face’ to face another day.
Does that sound familiar?? This is what Sheri followed on with:
It is because of the range of our experiences that we as women can be a tough crowd. We
sometimes pounce if a speaker doesn’t say just what we want to hear. But here is the
reality: We each have our own customized opportunities to deal with disappointment, yet
our disappointments don’t change the doctrine. My heartache about not yet marrying or
bearing children in this life does not change the doctrine about marriage or motherhood.
None of our lives are perfect, and neither are we. Nonetheless, in the spirit of not
offending or overwhelming one another, it can be tempting to water down the message.
But I don’t want to run that risk today. I believe in who you are too much to soft-peddle
the truth. So today, I wish to speak the unvarnished truth. My message is a plea and an
expression of complete confidence in us. Recently I learned a principle I should have understood but didn’t—that it is actually easier to motivate someone to do something difficult than something easy. That’s because the status quo is uninspiring. Our spirits crave to progress, and if we aren’t moving forward, we’re not happy. We believe in progression, and progression is by design difficult. How inspiring would it have been if our Father had said, “Be ye therefore mediocre”? Though our knees buckle at times under life’s pressures, none of us wants to stay just like we are. Embedded within our spirits is the need to become more and more like our Father. We are far more motivated to do something difficult than something easy.-
http://ce.byu.edu/cw/womensconference/archive/2008/pdf/sheriDew2008.pdf
These are powerful words, a message that is for ALL women, everywhere!
Whatever your journey, wherever you may be in life, if you can take these words and put to good use, you have made that first step. Here I go….I am a mother, a wife, but first and foremost, a WOMAN! God decided long ago that I was needed, so much so His only son would lay down his life for me!
As women, we wear many names, labels, some that we have grown accepting as part of who we are, but is it who YOU are? Is that tape in your head merely an earlier recording of rules and ideals, passed down after one generation to the next? Think about it! Then think about this:
[From Sheri Dew]
We are here to influence the world rather than to be influenced by the world. If we could
unleash the full influence of covenant-keeping women, the kingdom of God would
change overnight. No one has more influence on husbands than wives, on children than
their mothers, or on young men than young women. Show me the women of any family
or community, and I will show you the character and soul of that family and community.
I repeat, if we would unleash the full influence of covenant-keeping women, the kingdom.
This was just some of what Ora and I shared today, and it awakened my soul!
For too long I allowed negative words, labels others felt the need to attach, cruel actions and unjustly decisions to rule my life. I felt guilt, unworthy and lost.
I now know better! God saw something in me, that for too long I had ignored. He has been speaking to me, but his words were blocked by liars, by evil, by Satan!
As a woman, I know how other women think, how we feel. Why is it we feel ashamed to admit our faults, or to admit the silly competitive natures we have allowed? It’s one thing to compete in a race, but there’s no need to fight for riches. To look better, dress better, live better and on it goes….Women look at their bodies and find faults, never finding the beauty! It’s high time we worked together, at being more concerned about our souls.
Whatever your faith, stand united, share the joy of ministering, encourage other women to follow suit. This doesn’t require door-to-door ‘preaching’, women have a natural flair for sharing and supporting others, we are good talkers and listeners, we cry together, we laugh together. Let’s now minister together!
Please stop by Ora’s website for some real inspiration:
http://www.oraintl.org

Thursday 26 June 2008

Kathie M Thomas-Worth More Than Rubies



Special offer (24 hours only): From midnight 27th June 2008 AEST (10am 26th June - 9.59am 27th June US EDT)



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The Value of a Work At Home Mom-


This book is all about women, just like you, who want to be home for their families, while still contributing to the household income.
Listen to what the author had to say:
Hi, I'm Kathie M. Thomas and I've been working at home for over 14 years. In that time I have been able to watch my five daughters grow into young women whilst also running a full time business at home. It is a decision I've never regretted and I know it will be the same for you too!
This book will inspire you and give you ideas to return home to work and the gifts below should help you on your way with various aspects of your business.
What you will learn in Worth More Than Rubies: The Value of a Work At Home Mom:
The value of women working at home and being present for their families.
The benefits both children and spouses receive from a mother home fulltime.
Cost savings from being at home.
Examples of connections you can make outside of the home so you don't feel all alone.
A list of 64 different types of businesses that you can operate from home, ... and much much more!
See this link for more details

Thursday 22 May 2008

Monster or Menopause?

Why is it that so often, the best ideas/thoughts come to us when we are nowhere near a pen or computer?? Like tonight, for example-Here I was, enjoying the warmth of the shower, knowing that all my work had been completed, dinner dishes already washed and packed up, nothing for me to do but think of a good night sleep....So why on earth did I start thinking about Menopause & those affected by it? Seriously! What a strange thought to begin with, and why the shower? The next thing I knew my thoughts were becoming quite comical, with one image after the other, again sceaming out "Pick me! Pick me!" Okay, so rather than waste these strange, but slightly amusing thoughts, I'd like to run them by you.

Menopause was something I never really knew a great deal about, it was almost an alien -like monster that only existed on other planets! I'd come across a few women who at the time of our meeting, had the strange desire to share thier 'menopausal moments'. I'd hear bizarre accounts of intense body perspiration, headaches, the jitters, insomnia and mood swings!As much as I would offer my deep sympathy, to me, they were indeed, one of these strange creatures, and as they told their stories I suddenly realised that perhaps, they were victims of alien abduction? It just didn't seem humanly possible for any one to go through such a nightmare, then live to tell the tale? How could they live a 'normal' life with such horror and worst of all, having no control over it!? Well, here is one story of a real, close encounter...I won't use names, let's just say the woman is Lady X.
It was a lovely sunny afternoon, mid-summer in typical suburbia. My 2 boys sat happily playing their video game in the comfort of our air-conditioned livingroom, I, feet up sipping a nice cup of tea. Suddenly, a loud THUD on my doorstep, followed by a crashing sound! When I opened the door, I was shocked to see Lady X, cussing while she threw her luggage out of her car, onto my verandah! Her clothes drenched in sweat, her face, a firey red colour and her mood...well, scary! Now, Lady X had been staying in our home during her transition stage of moving house, a kind offer from my dear hubby...he had felt sorry for her and her predicament. I carefully stuck my hand out to offer support and almost had it bitten off! She was raging like a mad bull and I knew now was not the time to get in her way, so as she managed her own luggage, I gestured her direction to the back of my house, my children my first thought! Lady X could barely gain control, barely able to speak, she muttered "Just leave me alone, and I will be alright"
For the next half hour, while the kids still continued with their game, I found myself hiding in my bathroom, calling a friend for advice! Soon, the storm passed and it was safe to come back out....now, let's get back to the shower....I recalled this event, and I then wondered....Why is it, that whenever a woman plays the role in a scary film, or a thriller, of a witch or a crazed lunatic, she usually appears to be of the age a woman who may very well be going through Menopause?

Let's face it, the Wicked Witch in The Wizard of OZ, Cinderella's wicked step-mother, the evil grandmother from "Flowers in the Attic", all women portraying evil, scary and sometimes demonic characters, by women of middle age! Is there some sinsister hudden message here? Is this what we become?? I then had a vision of Jason's crazed psychotic mum from "Friday the 13th", the strange woman who worked in Mandalay serving sweet Rebecca...look how whacko she was! I now have a real feeling of pity. Perhaps if someone had stopped and asked if they were having a 'hot flash', or maybe offer them some hormone replacements? My point here is never underestimate the severity of the symptoms...they really do exist but, we are NOT monsters, we merely need some tender loving and understanding. I know this for I too now join the line up.....you better be nice to me!

Saturday 10 May 2008

Mother's day-again

I sat at my computer, staring at all the many documents saved on file. Those already in use, somewhere across cyber-space, and those yet to make their appearance. The latter sit tucked away for a greater purpose, one I know exists but still needs more work. The day they are set free will hopefully, be the day I am able to give the project some closure.
Mother's Day brought about this moment-my memories, my pain. Though in between the sadness, a friend gave me some comfort with her own personal reflection as she too shares the day without her mother. I have no doubt that I will continue to miss my 'mum', but this time round, I am going to look at the event with a more positive outlook, thanks to the words conveyed to me today-

Hope your Mother's Day is filled with every single thing your dear heart desires. Know that you are loved and in my thoughts on this day when mothers are remembered for all the care given without thought of self. I will be remembering my own mother more today and missing her terribly and I know the ache in your heart for your own Mum will be a little sharper today. But lets not be sad, dear one. Let us try to find joy in the fact that God graced us with their presence. There's nothing that will shape the lives of children more than the loving care of a devoted mother and we were both so blessed.
Thanks to my dear sweet friend....this helped me and I pray it will do likewise for any other 'motherless daughters' who might be reading...I'd alos like to share a poem, and a piece of who I am-All thanks to my mother.


“SISTER O SISTER”

Sister o Sister
I know each thought you think
Sister o Sister
I taste the salt that you drink

Together we share the blood of our mother
Two sisters, one love
For her, no other

Do you feel we have drifted?
Two ships lost out at sea
No anchor now holds us
We both sail aimlessly

Sister o Sister
Let’s not float further apart
Know that I need you
I speak from my heart

We cannot discard all we were taught
Such wisdom and much love
Are gifts given, not bought

I too feel frightened
What rules come with ‘grief?’
Simply follow your heart
That is my true belief

Sister o Sister
Mum was brave to the end
Her murmurs kept silent
So broken hearts would mend

Sister o Sister
Let us never lose touch
Sister o Sister
We owe her that much!


Broken hearts broken dreams
Future hopeless, so it seems
Desperate souls crave advice
Words of truth not always nice
Who shall say it without fear?
Trust the words of mother, dear
Friends mistaken for acquaintance
Lessons in the art of patience
Wear a heart upon your sleeve
The mother warns one so naive
Cups of tea poured with sympathy
Warned of misery seeking company
Lead the way, don't just follow
Set examples for tomorrow
Dare to cross each path unknown
Use mistakes as stepping stones
Now a daughter without a mother

These words stand out like no other
I hear her voice through conversation
Bestowed for future generations!
Debbie Stevens Ó 2007

It was the gloomiest day-overcast in their hearts and their minds. The two girls were today saying goodbye to their mother and they were both so afraid.-
from the book, "Follow a Freesia" by Debbie Stevens

Friday 25 April 2008

Anniversary of an Anzac-memory of a mother


APRIL 25th is an important date-it symbolizes many things to me, but across Australia, it is the one day of the year we commemorate the landing of Australian and New Zealand troops at Gallipoli back in 1915. The date, 25 April, was officially named ANZAC Day in 1916.
ANZAC stands for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. In 1917, the word ANZAC meant someone who fought at Gallipoli and later it came to mean any Australian or New Zealander who fought or served in the First World War. During the Second World War, ANZAC Day became a day on which the lives of all Australians lost in war time were remembered. The spirit of ANZAC recognises the qualities of courage, mateship and sacrifice which were demonstrated at the Gallipoli landing.
Commemorative services are held at dawn on this day,and each service as emotional as the next. Just speak with those who have taken part either as spectator, or addresing the onlookers.Our returning soldiers drifting home from the First World War, up until present day-These soldiors initiated this memorial, a tradition steeped in every patriotic heart, our form of remembrance. The first official dawn service was held at the Sydney Cenotaph in 1927, which was also the first year that all states recognised a public holiday on the day. Originally, these services were for all veterans, their personal homage to one another , time for them to reflect among fellow commrades in arms, almost a millitary wake, their respects shown by way of the two minutes of silence.....usually leading into the sound of a lone piper playing the 'Last Post'. Later in the day, there were marches in all the major cities and many smaller towns for families and other well wishers.
Today it is a day when Australians reflect on the many different meanings of war. Gatherings are held at war memorials across the country and families and friends form a unified alliance to reflect-It is a day for the heroes of every regiment of every era. A day to catch up on the old days, and old buddies. A day these soldiers receive their own recognition by their home, their country.
The battle at Gallipoli, our thoughts drift back to a painful and bloody sacrifice where the hallow word, ANZAC would be born.Hereafter, we will never forget them.And even today, we can salute the anzacs, with national pride..all the men and women who contributed so much, through great tragedies, sacrificing their lives, to protect us.Young Australians and New Zealanders, brave and young, dying to bring peace.The defence on our own shores against the Japanese, a time I as a baby boomer will always remember from the many stories passed down through my own ancestors.Those who were the many prisoners of war and those who sadly became their own prisoners to many awful demons that would follow them home. Endless nightmares, memories that would scar and memories that would still manage to kill.
World war II,Borneo, Timor Korea, Vietnam the list goes on....The anzac spirit will always be with us, making us the proud Australians we are still to this day.To all the sons, fathers, brothers..to my own family, my grandfather, my uncles and their fallen comrades in arms...this day shall be a day for all Australians, for those who served their country, for us.
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn
At the going down of the sun, and in the morning
We will remember them.
Lest We Forget.
A Digger's Slouch Hat
A slouch hat is a wide-brimmed felt hat with a chinstrap most commonly worn as part of a military uniform. It is a survivor of the felt hats worn by eighteenth century armies. The distinctive Australian slouch hat, sometimes called an Australian bush hat, has one side of the brim turned up or pinned to the side of the hat in order to allow a rifle to be slung over the shoulder.



THE REST OF THE STORY

April 25th, 2000-


This was the day I said goodbye to an old rival, a thorn in my side. Most had a hard time understanding my reasons, many believed I would succumb. But I had an ace up my sleeve and it was a mighty powerful weapon, one I had never imagined owning.

My head was still reeling from the news of mum's diagnosis, my heart carried a pain I never knew possible, just getting from one day to the next all I could face-Soon weighed down with more personal blows, the fight to survive all that mattered now.

I'd heard many words of wisdom from those who 'meant well', it would not sink in, not until I had a need to get angry-really angry! Ovarian cancer had come to town, our town.Sneaking into my mother's space, it had rudely interupted....a life!
So as i struggled to comprehend the disease and its own power, I found my own. The habit I'd picked up at age 15, was about to feel my wrath! For twenty-five years it held me down...for every past effort to quit smoking , I had failed. I was weak.

Mum had long hoped I'd see the light, so this fight, was for her.
When asked why I chose Anzac Day to stop? Simple... I wanted a date to remember, all that had happened, all that was about to happen....I won't forget.
My 8th anniversary as a non-smoker....only 2 days short of my mother's birthday. Miss you mum, the void always present, the love eternal.



Judith Burns







27/4/37 - 3/7/00

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Saturday 12 April 2008

Kookaburra laughs while Matilda does a waltz`


It took me by surprise to learn that many of my American friends, were under the assumption a Kookaburra may well be a myth.

With this in mind, I thought I should do them all a favour, and share some real Australian heritage. Enjoy!

Even though Australia's National Anthem is "Advance Australia Fair", in 1974 it came very close to becoming "Waltzing Matilda". The latter a song written by our own Banjo Paterson.
Born Andrew Barton Paterson, in [Narrambla Station] near the NSW country town of Orange in 1864.
His earlier years spent near Yass, NSW he attended school in the small town of Binalong, then later in Sydney. Once working as a clerk for a lawyer, Banjo soon became a solicitor. The publication of The Man From Snowy River and Other Verses in 1895, saw him something of a literary celebrity in Australia. His travels took him all over the country, he was a correspondent during the Boer War in S.Africa, then later on became editor for the Sydney Evening newspaper,and the Australian Town and Country Journal. When the first world war broke out, Banjo had hoped to be right there, covering the battle but didnt make it to France, so returned home to Australia, joining the Remount Service which supplied the Australian cavalry with horses. After the War he returned to Sydney, journalism and writing poetry and prose. Paterson is best remembered as the the author of "Waltzing Matilda" - Australia's unofficial national anthem.

I was fascinated when I found out there have been 3 versions of this song, the original written by Banjo, Harry Nathan wrote his around the turn of the century and last, but not least, Marie Cowan's 1902 version. Hefre is the most popular sung by all 'aussies':-

Once a jolly swagman camped by a billabong

Under the shade of a Coolibah tree

And he sang as he watched and waited till his billy boiled

You'll come a waltzing Matilda with me
Waltzing Matilda, Waltzing Matilda

You'll come a-waltzing Matilda with me

And he sang as he watched and waited til his billy boiled

You'll come a-waltzing Matilda with me
Down came a jumbuck to drink at that billabong

Up jumped the swagman and grabbed him with glee

And he sang as he shoved that jumbuck in his tuckerbag

You'll come a-waltzing Matilda with me
Waltzing Matilda, Waltzing Matilda

You'll come a-waltzing Matilda with me

And he sang as he watched and waited til his billy boiled

You'll come a-waltzing Matilda with me
Up rode the squatter mounted on his thoroughbred

Down came troopers one two three

Whose that jumbuck you've got in the tuckerbag?

You'll come a-waltzing Matilda with me
Waltzing Matilda, Waltzing Matilda

You'll come a-waltzing Matilda with me

And he sang as he watched and waited til his billy boiled

You'll come a-waltzing Matilda with me
Up jumped the swagman and sprang into the billabong

You'll never catch me alive said he

And his ghost may be heard as you pass by that billabong

You'll come a-waltzing Matilda with me.

Slang terms explained:
Waltzing
walking along a bush track
Matilda
a bedroll
Swagman
an unemployed drifter
Billabong
Aboriginal word for a waterhole
Coolibah
Aboriginal word for a type of Australian tree
Billy
a tin with a wire handle used for boiling water and heating food
Jumbuck
Aboriginal word for sheep
Tucker Bag
bag containing food (tucker)
Squatter
a landowner
Troopers
Policemen

_______________________


The Kookaburra-This amazing bird is from the family of Kingfishers, having a stout[fat]yet compact body with a short neck, short legs and a rather long bill. I love this bird for so many reasons. Have you really listened to his laugh? They are known as the 'laughing jackass' of Australia.Appearance:
Kookaburras are 17 inches in height, the upper parts dark brown, the wings spotted gray-blue. A white band separates the head from the body. There is a dark stripe through the eye, and the under parts are white. The strong bill is black.
Kookaburras ican be found in woodland areas of eastern and south western Australia, through many suburban towns and various water outlets, such as beaches and lakes. Many zoos around the world have fallen in love with this little cutie, which is a great opportunity for the Kookaburra to share its laughter!
The Kookaburra's rolling, laughing call is one of the best-known sounds in the animal world. The birds raise a wild chorus of crazy laughter as they go to roost in the treetops at dusk, and again wake everyone within hearing just as dawn breaks, so regularly that in the hinterlands of Australia they are know as the "bushman's clock."
They're also handy to have around to keep any rats, mice or snakes away! The Kookaburra seizes snakes behind the head and kills them by dropping them from a height, or else carries them to a perch and batters them senseless with its big bill before swallowing them.
See the video here on Blog, and see why Australians treasure this quirky friend of the fauna!


http://debra2760.tripod.com/my_kookaburra.htm


Note: Steve [croc hunter] Irwin was just one huge fan, like me.

Sunday 6 April 2008

Booming business

It's been awhile since I sat in on one of the Blogtalk radio shows, but being a Sunday here in OZ, I figured all my other online work could wait! This was one topic that is of huge interest to me, and I felt others might also benefit from its results. So here we go....take it away Bev!


Blogtalk Radio- Our Host: Baby Boomer Diva Queen, Beverly Mahone

The topic: Women in business

What works for one, doesn't neccessarily work for another-

Two lovely guests: Pamela Archer & Bonnie Birchfield

Both ladies have more than one business, both are successful, sassy and here to share their own background while offering great tips for us! Here's what they had to share-
Bonnie Birchfield's latest venture has quite a catchy title, and I am not the only one who thinks so, just ask Bev! :) 'BUZZ OFF' is the business, 'lazars for women', the product.
Question:Did you know you wanted to be in this business?
Bonnie had worked in the corporate world for years, not wanting to work for another employer, this time working for herself. With her jewellery business already secured, the latest project was appealing because it was a hot item,offered security[which Bonnie has years of experience in] a protection device for women who don't want to carry around fire-arms and if in a dangerous situation, something that would give them time to get away.
Bonnie located this business via an article in a newspaper.
Pam also has more than one business, both originally began as mere hobbies, but quickly took on a life of their own, leading to bigger things.
Beverly asked Bonnie how she found her second business:Reflecting on her jewellery, she explained how this was now something still loved and can now sell 'on the side', the business has already kicked off and only needs people to market.

When describing her lazar business, Bonnie explains the great desire she has to see all women are protected.

Was it difficult to start? Not at all, it was just a matter of getting out and selling, going through the paperwork, getting a sales-rep to assist!
Like anything, there's always the pro's & cons, the disadvantages/advantages along with risks-
Both women agreed on pretty much each question, giving some very helpful feedback.

Should someone about to start a business, simply step out on faith, or wait until they are financially comfortable?
Pam: Don't jump! Even though she jokes she is typically one for doing so lol She would, however, insist you 'go for it!' Bonnie agrred, adding that 'everyone is different'.

How do you handle those things that stop you from pursuing your goal?
Bonnie: Have a back-up plan, see about a loan if financially needed...through friends or other means. Always depends on the problem.
Pam:This applies to anyone, things such as hidden expenses. Consider if you are the main person in the business and whether or not you have anyone to fill your spot should something go wrong. Think out on paper, what your ack-up plan might be and whether you want to continue? A plan in place!

GOALS FOR 2008 ON PAPER? Example, Beverly has her own Vision board!
Pam: A calander with dates & my projected income.
Bonnie: Plan where I am going to sell enough of my tazars to be in the company,seel enough over my coming website.

Good networking sales skills:

Pam: Offering your products online! Pam believes having her business available online, will help to kick-in in the internet.
Bonnie:Out of town networking, family members and friends and of course, the coming website!
Alot of people in business don't like the door-to-door approach, so I prefer to use the telephone.

Do you think you'll stick with what you are doing now? Is there something else out there? Both of today's guests agreed to keeping their doors open to any other possibilities, while sticking with their current roles.

The risks of owning your own business: For Bonnie, being a single mother is a task in itself, especially in this day and age of high technology where there are usually 2 working from home.
Bonnie: Your own business can be tough when it comes to insurance, a steady pay cheque, but the upside is i don't have to 'clock-in'! I work 24/7 and often on-call. Bit of a toss up...if you can afford it, and feel you can be successful then have a go.
Pam:I'm a risk taker! lol The word, 'impossible', is not in my vocabulary. My job never ends, around 70hours a week! I once had an office outside the home where people didn't see what i was doing. I feel some don't respect your time and hours...balancing this is a real challenge!

In hindsight, is there anything you would have done differently?
Pam:NO..if you don't make a plan, you won't disappoint! lol Perhaps more focus placed on advertising. ie: Opposed to advertising our bridal business in newspaper, we should have done through a bridal magazine. Business quadripled once we changed!
Bonnie:Sometimes things move so fast, you just have to take off with both feet running!
Pam:With a business plan, I did sit down to do, but kept being taken in other directions.

BUSINESS BUDGETS?
Pam:Had a business advisor-Told me certain things like the amount of % we should spend on advertising in the business. Need money to re-coup!
Bonnie:Haven't really spent alot-More word-of-mouth and networking. Will be doing some advertising, just not yet. Although, you never know?

List two ways of networking- The advantages/disadvantages:
Pam:I prefer the one-on-one meetings. "What can I do for this person?" approach, in a room with others.
Bonnie: Disadvantages: No vacation or sick days,but the benefits definitely out-weigh!
Pam: Advantages have been the progression of my business-
Archers Fitness: Became certified, then one thing led to another...videos, teaching other instructors.
Wedding Plan Events: Had done as a hobby for many years, but I got so busy that I went into business!

CHALLENGES:
Bonnie:Have to network!Get involved with all organisations, putting on sales-reps to help which includes using contatcs, getting the word out.
Pam:Networking essential and a strong website presence.In this 'tech' world, the hardest thing was how quickly the events moved, employees and tax a real challenge. Trying to keep up with growth.
Bonnie:I'm still overwhelmed. Have the website launching in approximately two weeks. Everybody wants this product so it won't be hard to sell!

Beverly researched the use of tazars-The service behind the need...surprisingly, not only designed for the police.
Beverly:Are you concerned someone might get hurt, or are mis-using?
Bonnie:Not like selling a fire-arm, this product is in-active while there is a background check by the manufacturer. They have a one million dollar, law-suit interim policy to protect with tazar form in place.

Unique Business: Best tips why someone should work for you

Bonnie: For personal gratification, protection, safety over over loved ones. Very successful business with plenty of room for growth,profitable!


Telephone [b] 904 327 6041 Business hours 24/7

Why would you say Fitness or Wedding Planner to consider?
Pam:Either one, you have to be totally passionate! Set yourself apart and be different. Making things beautiful, eligant, the reward is seeing the the results! Our motto: 'If the bride doesn't cry, we haven't done our job right!'

DAYTONA BEACH RETREAT-Do you feel Trade Shows/Venues are important?

With the Girlfriend retreat around the corner, this was the perfect opportunity to discuss this topic! Both Pam and Bonnie will be attending, so look out for them!

Bonnie:Very important! Make friends while networking.
Pam: On a scale of 1-10, I give it a 30! It's critical! Bridal shows-any networking, someone knows someone etc etc..Quite often, some who have attended a wedding will another customer.
Bonnie: Haven't done any trade shows.
Pam: They are explosive! Looking to include bridal shows!

At this stage of my blog, i'd like to stop to add my own feedback-

When working as Awareness Co-ordinator for Ovarian Cancer Network, I became heavily involved in Trade Venues. They are the best way to meet the public in a pleasant, non-threatening, sales-promoting enviroment! My stalls were always fun! That was my main focus, to capture the attention of the crowd, we presented everything with a real WOW factor, and even if a sale wasn't made, people left with plenty of good information! These venues often carried a variety of local business, established and the new...the atmosphere is great, and you can count on creating a good network if you use your head and imagination! Like anything for sale, you have to think on your feet, to keep the attention.

Okay, back to Bev and her guests.........

Do's and Don'ts of a business:Deciding to choose a business
Pam: Do research! The need of the product, the dempgraphics. Don't let the 'nay sayers' discourage your dream!
Bonnie:Research a need! The don'ts:'Nay Sayers'

If you truly believe, believe in yourself! Put your foot forward, your own risk to fill your own passion!

Thanks to Diva Tally [chat room]


Ten Years from Now:Where are you?
Pam:Built to sell! [Wedding pan/Events] Archer fitness...just to be around! :) Have ideas for a 'Dancing for boomers'....New video production in the works...
Bonnie:Continue to work both-Love to have my own jewellry line! The tazars, where everybody is working for my business, allowing more time for me!

ADVICE TO OTHERS:
Pam:Find good business advisor!
Bonnie:A small business organisation or look for someone who has retired from their business and get their advice.

End of programme


Pam Archer's website/blogs







Well done ladies, imformative show!
PS: See here for details on Divas at Daytona!

Thursday 6 March 2008

Shake it up!


GMS continues to thrive! Have you seen the current issue? WHY NOT? For all you disco-dancing-divas, lovers of pop and rocking readers, the March edition is HOT!!

But don't take my word for it, see for yourself!

When you get to the Audio/Video section, do yourselves a favour and turn up those speakers to truly appreciate the sound that awaits...


There's a fun little competition over at 'Around the Globe' and it's so easy! To top it off, I decided to give you a helping hand, so have left a clue....you won't know unless you go!!!


There's heaps more going on and I really don't want to spoil it for you, so click the link here


I'll be back to give you a sneak preview of what we have in store for April! :)
Picture: KRILL taken at their recent Sydney single launch-
photo courtesy: Brendon J-GMS Photographer
See our GMS BLOG

Monday 25 February 2008

You're a part of, THE ZONE!


NATIONAL OVARIAN CANCER AWARENESS WEEK>>>>> Sunday 24th February - Sunday 2nd March 2008. OvCa Australia will be running a number of events across the country and we encourage our supporters to be involved by coming along or running their own 'Catch up & Check up' session with friends, family or within your local community
Drawing by Tammi Bloom-2003
_________________________________________________-

Youve reached your destination, and log in.
You hand over your details...a name, a passowrd. You have gained access into another world. You have now crossed over the dimension. You have entered, Internet Zone.......


Yes, here you are, in the immediate future. You are welcomed by the many cyberspace connections, who here, are your closest friends! Those that aren't, are either now deleted, possibly black-listed...work is at your fingertips, and you have every available tool known to cyberman. Though you are always trying to keep up with the next creation, which makes life on the internet, an even faster race! Life lives on a page....the very existence or this cyber-community and each page is linked to another, then another and so on...Google is our guide. This daddy of all search engines, knows where EVERTHING is! Boy, he's good! How often does he tell you:"I'm sorry, there is no listing of that person" and then suddenly disconnect from you!?

The lists of homes include the recently more affordable, simple and chic style, known as the Blogs! This page is a home like no other. It has made room for it's visitors to be on your door-step, but by announcing themselves, almost immediately as they enter! There's no need to take your turn in the still popular, Guestbook pages; this simply held back by the fact it sits within someone's premisies, usually requirung a visit to more pages to become familiar...No, with the Blog, what you see is pretty much what you're going to get, so most are now jumping frequently from one, to the next.

We have been introduced to their own set of inredibly handy, and quite promotional set of tools!

Everything from your feedburners to blidgets! RSS/atoms, they are both what starts a page on the road to popularity, but with these little beauties, we can take them with us and have them shaped into our own promotional ads. What's best, they're free! We get a feed, and we get to dress it up...our many designers offer the cyberian, ONLY what they want. So you can get a widget, have it tailored to your specific needs, or a cool blidget, which will amuse your own visitors..let's face it, we STILL like to 'keep with the Jones's'! I spent an entire day window shopping for mine! I picked up a widget, a blidget and then, went back for a chiklet! While on my way home, I saw a sign flashing from another home, so i followed it and now have a 'headliner', and it TOO flashes! Well, when i checked my purse, sure enough, I still had a list of feed urls just waiting to be fed! They all have their own section, so we like to call them our folders...they fit just about anywhere, and if you haven't had time to stop at the folder depot while out on your daily rounds, you know it's best to have them on you!

I just LOVE shopping at Newsgator, but have noticed that Grazr is catching up, and most of our feeds can now be passed onto our community networks FOR US! LOVE their clipboards! How nice of them. Saves time copying that code then having your poor old mouse dragging it all over town! He's really only needed to see the load has been saved okay..Yes, we are moving rapidly towards the future, we stumpleupon, snipperoo, Hikkup, twitter, Typad, pagii, taggfy, myspace, yahoo, facebook, msn,bepo and so on...then you stop. The groups are calling and there are posts to reply to! Minimize the networks, turn off your YouTube, concentrate! But when God says, ENOUGH ALREADY....you are BOOTED!



Where in the world are YOU right now?????

Sunday 24 February 2008

Another teleseminar!!

Want to get some great scoops on 'Aging gracefully'? Then you need to hook up for the next Teleseminar!
The past seminars were of great success and so much fun!

We had the Creative Writing then the Blogging seminar which were wonderful tools for many listeners, incluidng yours truly, and I hope to tune in for this next little gem!
Beauty of Aging with experts Jacqueline Wales and Eileen Williams, plan to give you their unique perspective on how to age with grace, dignity and style. Jacqueline's website is http://www.fearlessfifties.com Eileen's is http://feistysideoffifty.com The two fabulous divas are holding this teleseminar, on TUESDAY, March 4 at 8pm.

Don't miss out, be sure to sign up at: http://www.talk2bev.com

Thursday 14 February 2008

TREASURE HUNT-Legs eleven!

Come join in on the fun! Sign Up to play the Treasure Hunt!
Visit all our sponsor sites to find all the 56 pieces to the puzzle for a grand prize the "Trinity Rose Bracelet".
HOW TO PLAY:
Find All 56 pieces and collect all 56 puzzle codes. By visiting participating websites.
Each website has a puzzle piece or pieces hidden within their site content. When you find the puzzle piece, click on it then copy and paste the code next to that puzzle piece. Keep a record of codes found for each particular puzzle piece (i.e. puzzle 1 = code, puzzle 2 = code, etc. . . . You will need to submit the information to validate and confirm that you have indeed found all of the necessary codes for each piece.
There are 3 prizes and 3 chances of winning. The first person who submits the correct information wins the grand prize. The second person wins a set of earrings, winners choice, from our site AngBkr Treasures. The third and final prize is a 20% off gift certificate for any purchase from AngBkr Treasures.Sign Up for the Treasure Hunt Mailing List. This is how all contestants will be notified when prizes are won. The mailing list is only used as notification of prizes won. However, if you like playing Treasure Hunts, sign up to receive news of upcoming Treasure Hunts.

GUESS WHAT?? I am just ONE of the many who have hidden jigsaw puzzles inside the pages of our websites....in fact, I have given you an extra winning chance by placing a total of ELEVEN puzzle pieces right across the website! All YOU have to do is find them!
Go stop by Angie's Treasures on Valentine's Day, and click on Deliberately Debbie![Deb Stevens]

You will need to go to
http://treasure-hunt.cmorgansweb.us/sites/angbkr-treasures/


Good luck to all!
Angie's Treasure Hunt starts February 14th, 2008.

Wednesday 13 February 2008

Romance-What women want!


As a writer, I am often challenged to write differently.
As a woman, and a baby boomer diva, I am now writing more on romance and was recently invited to submit a small piece I'd included in a previous book, and turn it into something more. Okay, so what is more? A novella! With so much Chick Lit buzzing about the literary scenes, my publisher and I put our thinking caps on, and decided it was high time we found out what women readers, really want in a romance book?!
Thanks to the genius of SCuppari Publishing, I have my ideas already flowing and once a few loose ends elsewhere are tied up, I will be plunging deep into the romance story, "Turning Right"-
Meanwhile, we would LOVE to gather some feedback from other women, those reading romance and longing for more! Here's your chance, especially if you are anywhere between the ages of 35+ to surf on over to Writing Edge, and fill in the online survey! Helps us, help you! We want to deliver the kind of romance fiction older women, mature women, sassy wome want to sink their teeth into! Check it out: http://writingedgemagazine.tripod.com/id174.html
If you have any queries, or would like to submit your own little piece of romance, drop us a line at enquiries@scuppari.com or magazinestaff@bigstring.com
As deputy editor for this magazine, I am open to any new ideas so put on those thinking caps ladies, let's inspire others!
If you would like to subscribe to our magazine, stop by http://www.scuppari.com/ or http://www.writingedgemag.com/
A cool heavy-duty canvas, cotton tote bag courtesy of Writing Edge, with your subscription order!

Thursday 7 February 2008

Michael Winslow on BlogTalkRadio-


A couple of nights ago, I tuned in to hear the baby boomer diva Queen, on her BlogTalkRadio show-
Segment: PASSIONS
Following the wonderful on-air topic of Internet Dating, Beverly Mahone once more brought us some fun entertainment when she had guest-celebrity, Michael Winslow on her programme! Yes, that man of many voices is also a man of many faces!
Michael has a list of TV & Movies which he has played various roles, but many will remember his performance, as the cheeky & loveable, 'Sargent Larvell Jones' in the hit comedy classic, "Police Academy"-The role was apparently created around him, saying to Bev, "I got real lucky!"
He had been involved in jazz gigs, 2 shows at the 'Red Light' where Count Basie picked him out!
Michael's character was the result of his love to mimic, something he had begun as a child when growing up near and Air-Base. He shared some wonderful memories with Bev, had us in stitches as he so naturally fell into his amazing entourage of characters and sound effects. He kicked the show off with his greetings to all listeners, and this included a GREAT 'aussie' G'DAY MATE!! I LOVED IT! With a couple of baby boomer divas in the chatroom, I was on the other side of the globe, tuning in with my PC....Michael reflected on his childhood, sharing with Bev his habit of making jet plane noises to which his poor mother was always caught off guard! lol Then he shared the story of the 'dog noises'...warning us never to make the barking sounds, near a real dog, just as he had once...it was so funny, and when he began to bark, my own dog began to growl so he had captured her attention as well! His sound effects were so good, he was once asked to put on tape, the sound of a tiger..this was then compared to the real-deal, and guess what?? Michael's mimic was so close he scored a whopping 90%!
His career moved along once attending the IMPROV school, where he met Robin Williams. They were in different classes, and Michael laughed saying he'd heard that in Robin's class, he had basically taken over! lol Yeah, I can see that! lol With his 'gift', Michael had been given advice from other actors, saying he should JUST do voices, not sounds...well, the rest is history!
Apart from the success of Police Academy, which in all, there were a total of seven films spanning ten years, [1984 through to 1994]
Michael has other acting roles to his credibility, beginning back in 1980-
"Heidi's Song" where he played a character known as Mountain, he also appeared in a couple of Cheech & Chong films,1984 saw him playing the role of 'Spencer' in "Grandview", 1984 saw him usie his voice as the mean 'GIZMO' in the smash comedy-horror, 'The Gremlins"his FEET did that hillarious 'moonwalk' for Michael J Fox in "Back to the Future III"-
In the 1987 Mel Brooks comedy,"Spaceballs", he played 'Radar Technician', and today, is about to show us more in the new movie, "The Great Buck Howard", which stars Tom Hanks and John Malkovich, along with Tom's son, Colin Hanks to name just a few!

Michael shared how Mel Brooks "Made we work" and was grateful, and how "Malko was a professional, and dead on target", inspiring Michael to 'step up his game!' And it would seem it all rubbed off! He is popular just about everywhere he goes, and has fans from all around the world.
Michael has made 3 German films, and says in the UK, the Sci-Fi conventions are so BIG, they attract easy, 120,000 people over a 3 day period, Michael being one of them.
The softer side shows a man dedicated to children, and has helped them through shows on the subject of Breast cancer...helping them to understand what their mother's are going through. I applaud the man! I enjoyed my trip down memory lane as he revisited the days of 'Laugh-In', and good ol' Flip Wilson! "I LOVED 'Geraldine'!" he laughed...So did I!
Seems this baby boomer attracts attention wherever he goes, and on winding the show down, he hinted there MIGHT be a P.A # 8 in the wings, and when asked by a listener if he might ever team up with the likes of Robin Williams [thanks diva sister!] he replied "Anything is possible if you put your mind to it!"
INDEED Michael, you are living proof of that! Thank you Michael, and thank you Bev! I enjoyed every minute of this interview!

Cheers :)

Wednesday 6 February 2008

BlogTalkRadio-'Internet Dating'


BLOGTALKRADIO PRESENTS.....



INTERNET DATING



After a hectic couple of weeks, I finally got a chance to chill out and tune into our bubbly boomer radio host, Beverly Mahone.

Bev is the host of BlogTalkRadio and her programmes offer the listener a great variety of topcs.

As i'd missed a couple, I decided to grab the links and as soon as I finished work, logged in for each one...we will begin with the topic, 'Internet Dating'-

Did you know there are around 7 MILLION registered people online, all looking to hook up??

Amazing stuff! Apparently, more and more of these 'cyber-connections' are baby boomers. They even have their own group for Sci-Fi fans! How cool is that?!

As Beverly ran through some statistics, and different groups meeting online, the queue of callers were all waiting for their chance to share their own experiences. I have included just a sample of various opinions and views from these callers, along with Beverly's own advice.

There are obvioulsy many situations and scenarios that play out between these online couples, so how do you know the do's & don'ts of online dating? Here are a few pointers:
  • Don't get caught up in fantasy! Let's face it, it really is anyone's guess who that other person really is on the other end of space, so you are quite vunerable if not guarded.

  • Proceed with caution. This is your best bet!

  • Some people are not always planning on hooking up, so it might be a good idea to be prepared before joining a dating site. You don't want to be seen as someone wasting another's time?

  • Use your common sense! Just as you do in your daily life, you need to be aware of those people who may not neccessarily have good intentions.

One of Bev's callers came from our Diva group, and she said something even i won't forget: "Kiss alot of frogs until you find your prince" [I think I have that right?? lol I am sure it will be corrected if it is wrong]

  • Chemistry-How do you know you have this over the net? One lady pointed out that because of this reason, she was one who went in prepared, jotting down a list of things that she was looking for, then began her search. This particular lady was married, and had found her husband online! Success!
    This seemed to be quite a common event with other callers announcing the same news, and some had been married for 4 years and over, one mentioned a terrific ten years of marriage! All still going strong, so there is definitely something to say for this dating service, and for those over 40! Let's face it, we ARE slightly more at risk when we have been in a long-term relationship, then find ourselves middle-aged, and suddenly single. What to do, where to go?:
  • Meet in a public place when hooking up after meeting 'online'.

  • The internet CAN be a good place to meet as long as you as cautious online, as you are off...
    BREAKING NEWS>>>>>>A woman conversing online with man in Nigeria, fell for his idea to pack a bag and purchase a one-way-ticket to his country, all with the proviso of then going back together to the United States. GUESS WHAT????? He was a NO SHOW!!!! Worse still, this woman was a mother, of 8 young children!!! Upon her return home, she was confronted with Foster Care who had taken custody of all her children! WHAT WAS SHE THINKING?????? She WASN'T! As discussed on the show, if she was that quick to drop everything on a whim, who knows if this was something she would have done elsewhere?? Those poor kids...my heart really goes out to them. See? This is the part where CAUTION screams ALERT ALERT!! If you are destined to meet someone, you will. As Bev so wisely added on her wind-up of the show..
  • DONT BE ANXIOUS!

  • Be mindful...work from the inside, out!

And just as we thought the show had ended, on popped a genteman caller from the UK, with a voice that had Bev intrigued! lol Dont woory mate, as soon as he spoke I was in the same trance! lol My hubby, who had decided to join us for the show was ALSO just as intrigued, saying he knew his voice!! haha The accent reminded him of a familiar rock star?! When he has figured out his assumptions, I'll be sure to let you know Bev! lol Anyway, getting back to what this nice British man had to say on his internet dating experience... He believed in using a level of 'steps'...


*First, deep conversation

*Meet face-face

*Get married[and I found this funny...IF NECCESSARY lol]

Sadly, for our throaty Brit, his online experience went nowhere, fast! The girl was from Russia, and she had asked he spend his money on airfares, but something told him not to risk so he didn't...he was a very honest guy! He was also very wise!
And then we came to the end of the programme, and Bev still had some spare-time on her hands before the show closed...this was where she had me and my hubby in stitches! Oh i love ya Bev, you are so cute! lol Instead of serenading us, we did the countdown! Walla! End of show...with someone busily typing in the background! Beverly is your real star, the show must go on and any gaps, well, IMPROVISE!!! So mate, as you signed off, we sat here applauding you!! :) (((clap clap clap woohoo clap clap & a couple of whistles! ))))))

Thanks for a great programme!

NOTE: A very special mention to another special listener..Pop Art Diva's cute little four legged princess[you think I am kidding, this dog has her own tiara] PIXEL!