tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16228270850225160652024-02-19T01:49:56.492+00:00Whispers From The Heart...Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16378021619114862018noreply@blogger.comBlogger15125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1622827085022516065.post-26017319603163962672011-12-12T21:23:00.003+00:002011-12-14T05:39:27.418+00:00In remembrance of Dr. Ibrahim Nahel Othman!.<br />
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<b><i>DR. IBRAHIM NAHEL OTHMAN</i></b><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLRjGTOx2SI2P44yleIltl1_RdbXqwSFnH-U5YagvX1WR_1SogvXgubEImGLOxzzAuAe09z2ilchQKdRbgX2hfke7_UEuv1_7L0mqc4DcunqSmYAzrscyuM1N2m9iX2QulpO6AkxxhcVxn/s1600/387387_10151094994570727_420796315726_22367706_1044416565_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="240" width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLRjGTOx2SI2P44yleIltl1_RdbXqwSFnH-U5YagvX1WR_1SogvXgubEImGLOxzzAuAe09z2ilchQKdRbgX2hfke7_UEuv1_7L0mqc4DcunqSmYAzrscyuM1N2m9iX2QulpO6AkxxhcVxn/s320/387387_10151094994570727_420796315726_22367706_1044416565_n.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Yesterday Dr. Ibrahim Nahel Othman was assassinated by Assad regime as he was fleeing to the Turkish border. Ibrahim was a great, courageous, caring and proud Syrian. Just 27, Ibrahim was training to be an orthopedist. Shocked and appalled that victims would be to afraid to come to hospitals and clinics when they were injured, hospitals and private clinics have been raided by the regime, and many injured victims and orthopedists have been taken and killed. Some 700 physicians are missing as of today. Ibrahim couldn't sit back and do nothing and along with fellow physicians started up the Damascus Physicians Coordinating Committee. He was a key member in setting up many secret field clinics, not just in Dasmascus but also in surrounding cities like Hama and Homs. For this reason he was wanted and killed. Another example of how corrupt the Assad regime is. Another powerful and strong innocents man's life taken. <br />
<b>Rest in peace Ibrahim Nahel Othman</b>Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16378021619114862018noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1622827085022516065.post-19606690978666597552011-12-06T11:17:00.000+00:002011-12-06T11:17:28.212+00:00Free Razan Ghazzawi petition!<b>Free Razan Ghazzawi petition.</b><br />
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Please sign this petion. <br />
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<a href="http://www.avaaz.org/en/free_razan/?fOfnmcb&pv=9">http://www.avaaz.org/en/free_razan/?fOfnmcb&pv=9</a><br />
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Please also continue to spread the word, don't let it become covered up by other stories. We need to get Razan home and all the other detainees released who have also been arrested unfairly and are being exposed to most likely horrible torture from the Assad regime. <br />
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There were rumors that Razan was going to be released last night (5th December) so the pressure is clearly working. <br />
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Write some emails to Syrian Embassy's. <br />
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This case really means a lot to me. <br />
Thank you again.Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16378021619114862018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1622827085022516065.post-15713458404795585062011-11-26T02:03:00.000+00:002011-11-26T02:04:52.859+00:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuZCsJbk83hR8CoaYPfoeE3kjgwVoQMKbHB3_2Na9FILyWuHG8gYWEJRrwshYu1bbfhzfUFYL-O24mndi4tpb9W1k3sfE7XdOUSkQWxQq1kCpgLn4Zyzf48T1g7yqORWzHgzrECDI1wlit/s1600/248933_214819618551901_214817898552073_702498_6362680_n.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 290px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuZCsJbk83hR8CoaYPfoeE3kjgwVoQMKbHB3_2Na9FILyWuHG8gYWEJRrwshYu1bbfhzfUFYL-O24mndi4tpb9W1k3sfE7XdOUSkQWxQq1kCpgLn4Zyzf48T1g7yqORWzHgzrECDI1wlit/s320/248933_214819618551901_214817898552073_702498_6362680_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679114203670774370" /></a> I would like to start by noting that I do not think I know everything, and that I understand everything that is going on in the world right now, nor will I pretend too.. but I would like to say that I am as eager as I can possibly be to at least try. I am intrigued,drawn in and there is so much that I have to learn and I cannot wait. I believe all these changes are one's for the better. I believe that people are finally opening their eyes and standing up, together. Countries are uniting and even though half of the news we read is not pleasant, and I sorely feel for all the lives that have been lost, I am excited. This change is thrilling. I wish so strongly that I could be experiencing these uprisings and protests from the solid ground where they are happening, watching the news is one thing,but none of us can deny the fact that it is biased. <br /><br />I am writing this post I think, mainly because these ideas and questions are driving me insane, swimming constantly around my head, but in hope that some of you will read and give me your thoughts, your opinions and share them with me. <br /><br />I want to start with Syria. What we're seeing is yet another Country which has risen up to stand for its Rights. Over 3500 people have died in this 8 going on 9 month uprising. (according to the UN) That is a lot of lives to have been lost in protests, that actually started off, non violent. How did it escalate to this? How is Bashar al-Assad not reacting to the loss of this many of his peoples lives? Is that maybe a naive question of mine? Again, I won't pretend to understand what the conflict between him and his people are, but I can't help feeling angry at how stubborn he is acting. What does he think he will achieve? Is he afraid? I don't know.. but I want to try and understand, and I have been reading so many blogs, talking to so many people, trying to get as many points of views, to try and understand as much as I possibly can. This is all I have to write now to be honest.. I can't sleep with all of this in my head.. I had to let it out in some shape or form. I just want to say however, that even though I am nowhere near you in body, I stand by the the people of Syria in soul, and besides every other person out there who is stepping up for change. <br />Please leave comments with your thoughts on the uprisings, the protests or anything you feel like sharing. Links, blogs, videos! <br /><br />Thank you.Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16378021619114862018noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1622827085022516065.post-32476366467986455762011-06-19T11:18:00.002+01:002011-06-19T11:35:18.607+01:00Australia - First impressions.Sheesh. Where to start? <br /><br />Like any and every Country you enter for the first time, there is so much to take in! <br /><br />Three weeks down and I have to say, I like Australia very much! <br />Where I am now is rural as $#@! but it is very very relaxing and knowing that I won't have to stay here for the full six months is very comforting. It makes it all a little easier to deal with. I haven't seen or talked to anyone since I got here... and I've left the rarm property once... Its very very lonely. But, as I have told the family, that I cannot stay the full length of time.. I think this is perfect for me.. I have learnt a lot and had a lot of time to think things trhough and see things clearly. <br /><br />The family, as such, are FANTASTIC!The kids are three little terrors I'm telling you... Sam, who is 4. Lucy who is 3. Tom who is 2 and Max who is 8 months.. they are a total hand full and all of them are going through a very demanding grumpy stage in life! One day I'm there best friend and the other I'm the wicked witch.. (mainly because I don't give into them screaming and trying to hit me... )<br />The parents are also great.. within boundries. I'm not sure if the mother realises how much work she is actually asking of me, and how difficult and offensive she can be sometimes. She got really pissed off at me because I folded a jumper up the wrong way.. I've also hung out the washing the wrong way before.. but... she is nice.. I know she means well and she's given me some pretty useful tips on raising kids, as she definitely has her share of experience! <br />The two dogs, are my new best friends!! Finally, I have my "own" dog. They are huge and bad ass and I lvoe them to bits! Bibs and Buck. I love rugby tackling with them. They usually win.. but ach well! ;) <br />The property is just stunning... I have my own little flat, which is actually pretty damn big! Its all quaint and wooden, which right now, makes it damn freezing in the night, but a big advantage in the summer when its 40 odd degrees outside. There s nothing around us, for around an hour, at least.. no people, nothing, but flat, dry fields, hectres upon hectres of (now empty) cotton fields, fascinating landscape, trees and kangaroos, nakes and a bunch of exotic birds are frequent visitors un the Garden. And I get to call this my home. It is definitely a part of Australia that most "tourist" just don't get to experience, at least not properly. I am very grateful for my time here but can not begin to explain how damn happy I am to leave here. <br />I have found a few job options in Darwin in the Northern Territory, which is perfect, as it is one part of Australia I want to travel extensively, I can't wait. <br />Before that however, I get to explore Sydney, maybe a little around the area, and I also get to go to Fiji. SO things are good, I can't complain. I know I am so lucky to be out here and experiencing this all but I had no idea, how "hard" and alone I would feel out here by myself. <br /><br />Thank you to everyone who has been so supportive to me, through the last couple of tough weeks. Sometimes I ask myself why the crap I moved away from all of you!?Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16378021619114862018noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1622827085022516065.post-15852531174521721422011-01-16T03:09:00.002+00:002011-01-16T03:14:52.045+00:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0X-TrfmF4W4NqRj_IfRBOEMoMlD0fk1eV7UuAg3sJW74jAjAYnjpbUnRHgKDMD_SF8UlGp2Ggj7uYEXFff507ex_9w-hiHyATzyY5poRAb0jAnxB1O-VsG-TvQJ0brhi-ypurUdsPr7uB/s1600/Bob+Marley.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 226px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0X-TrfmF4W4NqRj_IfRBOEMoMlD0fk1eV7UuAg3sJW74jAjAYnjpbUnRHgKDMD_SF8UlGp2Ggj7uYEXFff507ex_9w-hiHyATzyY5poRAb0jAnxB1O-VsG-TvQJ0brhi-ypurUdsPr7uB/s320/Bob+Marley.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562616735224167522" /></a><br /><strong>"Every little thing, is gonna be alright... </strong> - <em>Nesta 'Bob' Marley.</em> I have so much Love, Peace and Respect for this man.Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16378021619114862018noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1622827085022516065.post-14579280132487360482011-01-15T18:11:00.011+00:002011-01-15T19:57:26.879+00:00Peaceful, Easy, Feeling ..<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8_9Jekw5ZJRQLIe38srhnxU1gsPkE9Luqy4dVLEnS6S1FoSE4VsozGm4OXgUwNR27iPtJJuLx4MUaqvSFA2L2HYr-kmZhfxRWi2_JYd4PZpvuhfxpueJ4qb64M5YJZ2zSvTnXWoJ9XhK1/s1600/36254_10150353150720153_602855152_16525166_5922907_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8_9Jekw5ZJRQLIe38srhnxU1gsPkE9Luqy4dVLEnS6S1FoSE4VsozGm4OXgUwNR27iPtJJuLx4MUaqvSFA2L2HYr-kmZhfxRWi2_JYd4PZpvuhfxpueJ4qb64M5YJZ2zSvTnXWoJ9XhK1/s320/36254_10150353150720153_602855152_16525166_5922907_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562498455334839778" /></a><br /><br /><div>Do you ever wonder how people pereive Beauty? </div><br /><br /><div>Is Beauty something like a simple walk in the snow, rain, wind or Sun? Is Beauty a simple gesture of Kindness like a smile from a friend or stranger? Is it a bigger gesture of Love and Affection like a hug, kiss or something more intimate... Is it an object, a plant? </div><br /><br /><div>I often ask myself how people choose their perception of what's Beautiful and what's not. Trying to keep my personal perspective out as much as possible I will just quickly add that I can find something like different coloured pieces of washing hanging out to dry in a small Fijian village with the voices of children playing beautiful, or the Elders of the village singing in the Church Beautiful but I can walk out of that village and into town and see a person, a human being and find them "ugly". A Psychology enthusiast I ask myself constantly what makes everyones perceptions of Beauty different? The fact everyones perception of it is different, is Beautiful in its own sense. What triggers us to automatically find something Beautiful or Unattractive though? </div><br /><br /><div>Nativists or 'Naturists' believe we're born with certain capacities which determain how we perceive the world in particular ways, these 'ways' develope as we mature. They believe that very little or no learning at all has any impact on our percetion. Empiricits by contrast are 'Nurturists' believing that all our perception, knowledge and abilities are required through experience and learning. Perhaps even if we do not necessarily consider ourselves a 'Nativist' or 'Empiricist' everybodies way of perception strengthens in one of these areas? Naturally, things that maybe trigger a bad memory from the past are going to have a more negative reaction on us than something that triggers a memory that has once brought us joy. But can we learn to see Beauty in something we find Unattractive? Can we learn to Love whom and what we Hate? </div><br /><br /><a><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 242px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguM77E42Zp0libD5Bvdy4FhaCRWZVz5b8s1DkUeIYuxpdlIqV4vENdhjb-KOTQSUZzH8TZi4AAcO1eEm1GNECpLi2YjtiQbeNq953qboqVW5s98mdPcyZ7i3RPMxQRX5eoUMxs60sjmK88/s320/agy-vogue-082.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562501762564040130" /></a><br /><br /><div>Do the women in the Fashion Magazines or any other tabloid articles and pictures force us to think what's Beautiful and not? People are argue that they do, that they brainwash us. But how do they choose what they find Unatrractive and not? What influenced them? </div><br /><br /><div>I'd be interested on people's opinions. Comments or Messages. :) </div> <br /><br /><strong>"No object is so Ugly that, under certain conditions will not look Beautiful. No obeject is so Beautiful that, under certain condiotions will not look Ugly."</strong> - <em>Oscar Wilde</em>Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16378021619114862018noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1622827085022516065.post-75687729680779929512011-01-13T20:29:00.000+00:002011-01-13T20:58:10.834+00:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji8Ccw3xGuCOcF2udcmdqb892xYcutTl-x9m6dolXGWtI4XJyTpkGyhzR2gZW7I8ilUsKvTWpbsvKBlnvz3bVbhgsD1uRjzj0fiyzOTJrC71ZgkWKOZ-zX62FUOE0uJ8sI9ZiydjB7OJAx/s1600/37925_1625917735061_1450064411_31660303_7508059_n.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561771056917479522" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji8Ccw3xGuCOcF2udcmdqb892xYcutTl-x9m6dolXGWtI4XJyTpkGyhzR2gZW7I8ilUsKvTWpbsvKBlnvz3bVbhgsD1uRjzj0fiyzOTJrC71ZgkWKOZ-zX62FUOE0uJ8sI9ZiydjB7OJAx/s320/37925_1625917735061_1450064411_31660303_7508059_n.jpg" /></a> .<br /><br />Looking back on my time in Fiji, I realise that it would not have made the impact on me that it did if I had flown over any sooner or later. Fiji was the right thing for me at the right time. Perhaps its me Psychologically tricking myself into thinking this but I feel like my experience in Fiji, in some sense saved my life. Not that I was on the verge of death but I was on the verge of loosing myself. Everything I thought I had wanted, I didn't anymore. My aims and goals were changing. My health was bad, I was going crazy! Stressed all the time. I had nothing absolutely nothing figured out. The beautiful Island Fiji held onto that struggling last piece of me and built on it. I rediscovered myself; I had a much better persona than before and for the first time I genuinely liked who I was and the feeling was fantastic! So many incredible new things opened up to me in my first two months there.. I experienced feelings I'd never felt before. Languages and stories I'd never heard. Met people from all over the world and learnt about their homes which before then, I had known so little about. I ate food I'd never eaten - as a whole you could say I tasted <strong><em>life</em></strong> like I had <em>never</em> tasted before. This whole new World opening up infront of me captured my heart and drew me into not only experience it but to become entirely part of it. I keep trying to find the right words to describe how this Island and its Lovely people made me feel but I can't ..because I don't really know what I'm feeling, but the feeling is strong and the more days that past, the harder it gets to be away. Every spare minute I have I spend thinking about Fiji, browsing through pictures, watching videos, listening to local music and most of all, finding the quickest way back out there.<br />It's a bizzar feeling, being in Love, especially when its not directly at a person but rather to a large population of people .. and land. I honestly don't think I'll Love anything as much again. Part of the reason for that being, anywhere else my travels take me, the experience won't be as new to me as Fiji was. I guess the quote "You don't forget your first Love" would be appropriate here. ;) As would "Distance makes the Heart grow fonder."<br />My eyes sting when I look at pictures of my Family and Friends. Every day I check my Inbox and hope that one of them will be from a friend ir relative in Fiji. Friends and Family back in Scotland think this feeling will pass and I'll move on but the more time passes by the more I hold on.... May! May! May! Hopefully then I will be back... Let the countdown begin. Again .....Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16378021619114862018noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1622827085022516065.post-55507253869294680792010-12-23T15:08:00.000+00:002010-12-23T15:52:42.724+00:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyzi_bPa_m7U2i3BG2YgJP5xVBO4R5IyI71YAqm2jssi54GKkQ1oS1R84LVM3z1pFAtON0oltFJdaqiu7cE5byQ3vmh4Fse0nalQN3x7kub_QLp7yq8V1EwvdO0Rj-uCWqUyyv8qDg5sBH/s1600/DSCF1968.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 320px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 240px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553895711556831938" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyzi_bPa_m7U2i3BG2YgJP5xVBO4R5IyI71YAqm2jssi54GKkQ1oS1R84LVM3z1pFAtON0oltFJdaqiu7cE5byQ3vmh4Fse0nalQN3x7kub_QLp7yq8V1EwvdO0Rj-uCWqUyyv8qDg5sBH/s320/DSCF1968.JPG" /></a><br />Bula, Bula! Time has come and gone already. Just like that Fiji has past me by already. I don't know where to start to sumarise my placement there. I obviously didn't write as many blogs as I had planned but then again, the internet wasn't great and I had to much to do and to little time to waste on the internet. I can honestly say that I did not expect what I got out of this trip. I'll try break this down as best as I can. This is going to be a looong blog though. Grab some coffee and snacks if you're going to read it all. ;) I should start off with my family...<br />I didn't have a younger sister before Fiji and I left the Island with two. Jackie and Tara have got to be two of the most precious little girls in the world. They are so dear to me. No matter what I write about them, words won't give my "host" family justice. Words won't give anything in Fiji justice but there you go. The family have been more than incredible to me. I love every single member with all of my heart. My room mate and me were incredibly lucky to be placed in the 35 Northern Press Rd. My "host" daddy is one of the most interesting people I've met. He was full of interesting new things to tell me and talk about from my first evening there. My "host" mami and me clicked pretty fast and got on so well. I miss her like crazy, I have so many good memories with her. I could talk to her about everything! My dads daughter and son came across from Australia too and there was two more siblings to add to my family. They're brilliant too, so much fun. I just wish I could of spent more time with them. Not forgetting to mention Tau and Tara again, who left back to Suva a few weeks after my arrival. I miss them but they along with the rest of my family will always have a space in my heart and memories. <br />Nadi Special School - Wow, where do I begin with this place... The school had me captured the minute I met my class and they all repeated "Madame" back to the main teacher Andrew. There smiles were so big and it didn't take them long to all introduce themselves and chat to me. It only took a few hours after finishing work for me to miss the kids. I loved the work I did with them, even though I would of liked to do more, it was one of the most rewarding things I have done and probably ever will. It is so rewarding working with children with special needs. I know now that I definitely don't want to be a teacher, not that it was ever an idea for me. It is very challenging, especially in a foreign country when some of the kids can't speak let alone hear you. The teachers were a great brunch too, super friendly, very approachable and I can't wait to go back and visit the school on my return to Fiji. A supermarket/mall branch line in Fiji called Jacks, sponsored a end of term party in Hard Rock Cafe Fiji for the school. It was so much fun and the kids loved it! I'm so grateful to them for organising it. Its great that the kids get to do these things.<br />The volunteers.. We were an awesome bunch! Even though I didn't actually end up spending so much time with them in the end, they made a huge impact on my stay there. The crazy nights at Eds, Ice, Smugglers and the afternoons at the pools in Denarau *sigh* .. lets say, close to nothing can compare to them, so thank you!<br />Saving the best till last ;) My KAUNAHOGA - I'll try my best not to cry when I type this bit ...<br />Where. On. Earth do I start with you lot? You made my stay in Fiji. You introduced me to the locals and the culture. You helped me ground and find myself. You made me the happiest I have been in my life as far back as I can remember, and I haven't been pretty damn happy before! Leaving you, the Blue House, The Kava Shop, Namaka and the beautiful Island of Fiji was the hardest thing I have done in my life. It was more painful than anything I've ever felt. I'm not entirely sure what it is that had you guys make such an impact on me but you will all be in my hear forever. Even though I sucked, dancing with Tafag Hanua at Smugglers on that Wednesday night is now one of my strongest funnest memories of Fiji and I'm honoured to say I had the chance to do that with you boys. The kava sessions and the songs you sung during them are whats dearest to me. The feelings that came with them and that come back when I think about those times are overwhelming and they fill my whole body. The peanut butter, the kavuru's.. the egg plan, Fiji Bitter, Taki! I could go on forever but this blog is already a long one.<br />I love you all. I love you Fiji. You are my home now. Everyone is born somewhere, brought up somewhere but there comes a point in life when you go out and find your own home, whether thats where you were born and brought up or further out. The Fiji Islands happens to be where I have found myself and where I have found comfort, where I've found home. I'll return as soon and as often as I can untill I can move over forever.<br />Vinaka, Faiaks'ea.Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16378021619114862018noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1622827085022516065.post-78223283363490014642010-12-03T07:07:00.000+00:002010-12-03T07:20:20.484+00:003rd DecemberTime keeps flying by here and I can hardly keep up. I failed a little on the weekly blog. The problem is there is so little time to sit down and actually think straight and write everything up. I can hardly keep up with each passing day. The last week has been party, party, party and christmas crafts as the schools are closed for summer vacation now. It was my last day at the Special School today and I had my final farewell lunch which the teachers held for myself and three other volunteers who are alo leaving in the next couple of weeks. Full on Indian food, super spicy! Saying goodbye was one of the most painful things. The last few days and evenings with them have been so much fun.<br />Bula Festival is all up and running again as the rides and stalls had to be taken down due to the cyclone warning we got given. It never happened!! Not even a frickin chair got blown over. It just built up for three weeks, raining, continiously but ended up with nothing! I have to say I was very disappointed. I guess its a good thing nowhere flooded though. A few years back Nadi had it pretty bad and you could swim along the high street, fancy that! Anyway, its all running again and the festival will just finish a little later this year. I've found another group of lovely locals to drink kava with at the end of all the stalls. :)<br />This weekend I will go up to the mountains and Waterfalls with the dancers as they have a show there. I'm very gratful because I was dying to go up there but due to my card being blocked and being skint I haven't been able to do much so being able to go as part of the family with them for free is super super kind of them! I'm excited to move in with them all on Wednesday but at the same time I really don't want to leave my family.<br />I think that's everything up to date!Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16378021619114862018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1622827085022516065.post-34495028375961778812010-11-07T11:21:00.000+00:002010-11-07T11:50:57.512+00:007th November.The longer I'm here, the words to write about this place decrease. No matter what I write or what I say, doesn't give the Island justice. I guess I'll start with; Monday .. First day up again. The kids and teachers were so happy to see me and I them. I didn't make the full day, so I missed the Muslim School. The sun is to intense. Tuesday; I headed into work but only got to town before I face planted myself onto the pavement out of the bus due to me conveniently fainting, due to my headaches. It was embarrassing, but I got over it pretty fast. I make it in Wednesday and get invited to lots of Diwali dinners - which I am so so glad I got to be here for. Fairy lights everywhere, all the houses are lined with beautiful fairy lights. I went to celebrate it in town with my host mum and sister, along with my room mate and another volunteer. It was bizare. A part of the main road had been shut off the last few days and there was a stage where various people performed different things. I "met" the Fijian Prime minister there. There was also a big fire work show and heap of food and pretty looking Indian woman in Saaris. Its all I can write right now, I've gone mind blank, there's to much on my mind to be able to concentrate long enough to write it all down. Atleast you know roughly, what I've done in the last week. Tomorrow I go to the Muslim school again and start, properly, with the Health & Safety course. Excited! I also go to the Radisson with Ella tomorrow and cheer on our new friends, as they start a new contract and fire dance there.<br /><br />Bula. <3Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16378021619114862018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1622827085022516065.post-37655561488976821102010-10-30T00:01:00.000+01:002010-10-30T00:24:43.812+01:0030th October.Everything is set for my Health and Safety course and I'll be starting it on Monday. I'm actually incredibly nervous. My first class, in the Muslim school will be 40/42 students. All to myself, yay! I'm really looking forward to it though. I can't wait to see the result and award them their certificates. I've made up the little exam test for the end of it and have got different things printed of for them to do excercises with. I've also thought of activities for them to do, to make it more fun, and as I'm an active learner myself, hopefully the message will stick for longer.<br />As for the Centre for Special Education - I haven't been there all week, due to me falling ill last Sunday. I miss them terribly, its crazy how fast people can make an impact on your life. Thinking about me by the time I have to leave them for good is horrible. I feel like I'm achieving more and more with them each day and they're also teaching me, everyday. I adore the teachers there so much, they're brilliant! Mark's gone now though ... :(<br /><br />Last Sunday, I did my first Island trip to Monuriki, which is where Castaway was filmed. It was stunning! I went snorkelling and found Nemo! He head butted my goggles. We also stopped by on this small Island, in the middle of nowhere, more so than Fiji, where there was actually a small village and people living there! They had a Library, a school, church and their houses. Their only source of water was the rain ... It was incredible, I don't know how else to put it. Instead of walking around the whole village with everybody, I tried to communicate with the kids there. It was hard, as their English is poorer than that of the kids on the main land, but I managed to get through and I ended up playing with 15-20 of them for a good 30 minutes. We played 'catch' piggy in the middle' and tried football. All of this we played with an empty plastic coke bottle. Yet, I don't see I've seen kids that happy. It was heartwhrenching leaving them behind. However, this beautiful day, that's going to stick in my mind forever, ended, I guess typically for me. After getting pretty badly sunburnt which lead to sun-stroke which lead to a Migrain - which lead me to going half blind! But I'm okay, it was a fun experience and the Doctor here knows me already, which makes me feel even more at home. ;) It was a littl frightening, as they were giving me pretty heavy medicine, saying stuff that I knew was wrong but I wouldn't want to be anywhere else in the world. Other than that, my last week has been spent in bed, sleeping off the medication and as the doctor told me to do "stay out of the sun" - I did point out it was going to be incredibly hard because I'm in Fiji at which he laughed, stopped shortly, and very bluntly told - "stay inside." Nice man! :D<br /><br />Bula.Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16378021619114862018noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1622827085022516065.post-78569435366059893332010-10-18T05:42:00.000+01:002010-10-18T06:20:56.479+01:0018th October 2010Time is flying already. I've been at work in the special school for a full week tomorrow, even though it feels like I've lived and worked here forever, I can't believe how fast it's gone. Everyday brings something new. The rain has stopped .. not to sure whether I'm to pleased with it to be honest, the sun is melting me alive. ;)<br />The Special school is brilliant. I love it there. The teacher's are all amazing and I grow closer to these children every single day. I know they always say "don't select favourites" but obviously I have a stronger connection to some more than others, funnily enough it's the reall trouble makers that I've become quite close too.<br />On Tuesday a big group of us went to St Andrews Kindie to do some prep work, ie; sanding everything, as we're going to give the place a paint job. Which was fun!!<br />On Wednesday I experienced the first fire dance show at Smugglers, quite impressive I must say! As are a few of the dancers bodies. Haa! I also went to the famous 'Ed's Bar' where some of the other volunteers played pool with a few of the fire dancers. While the others watched a prostitute do her moves on a pole. Nice!<br />I think Thursday was the first day that I felt totally comfertable in school and was able to pluck up the courage to be more strict with the children, even the older/bigger blokes. Some of which, don't know their own strength I tell you!! In the evening I sat for (probably too long!) drinking Kava with my host family and some friends. I slept well/ish though.<br />Friday was my first night out. I partied Fiji style. Didn't get home till 6:45am on Saturday morning apparently. Wey! When Pei asked me, I said I wasn't really quite sure, then Rosa told me she'd heard me come in when she got up for a shower. Tehe. I'm pretty sure it was a crazy mental night though, from what I remember! :D<br />Saturday I slept through my alarm so I missed the bus to the mud baths, so instead hung out with Anne and had a splendid pasta dinner in her new pad.<br />Sunday; Headed to Hilton with Anne and a few other volunteers to soak up some sun. Life can be such a chore.<br />Today I did my morning in the Special School and was introduced to my new class in the Muslim school which I'll be teaching three afternoons a week for a bit. They will be my first lot of children who I'll do the Health and Safety course with. :)<br /><br />I can't attach photo's to my blog or emails in Fiji, for some strange reason but I've uploaded a few onto my facebook so if you don't have an account, maybe you can look at them through somebody else's account? Hope I'm not boring you all! ;PGwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16378021619114862018noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1622827085022516065.post-14527126044479608602010-10-13T04:00:00.000+01:002010-10-13T04:41:07.403+01:00BULA FOLKS! <div>Where on earth do I begin now... I guess to mention the fact that I am ACTUALLY here now is a dream come true let alone Fiji being more amazing and welcoming than I could ever have imagined. I love every single thing about this place, from the lovely friendly people to the warm weather, to the insects that totally murder your arms and legs to the wrecked roads and jam packed full buses which play incredibly loud music. Even when it rains, which it seems to be doing a lot right now, this beautiful Island feels and looks like Paradise. My host mami and dad and there friends blame me for the rain, saying I brought it from Britain with me, as it didn't rain before I arrived. So for those who I promised to bring sunshine back, I can't promise anything ... :P<br /><br />The train journey down to Heathrow felt like any train ride to be quite honest.. it really didn't sink in until I was lying in my hotel room on my bed listening to the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong on Friday that I realised it was really happening. Hong Kong was a bizarre experience on its own. When I finally left the airport the city was just thousand upon thousands of lights towering above you and all around you. I was physically breathless when I opened my blinds in the morning and these huge grey/glass towers stood 20+ floors all around me and here and there randomly situated were lush green hills in between them.<br />As I entered the arrivals area on Sunday morning, myself along with other eager holiday goers were greeted at the door by three men wearing lazy shirts singing a welcoming song and I think that's when I confirmed my opinion of Fiji - I was going to love it here.<br /><br />As I got out of the car at my new home Tarra, the daughter of a close family friend ran into my arms and gave me the warmest smile ever. My host family have been more amazing than I could of asked for. They are perfect. There humour is brilliant and my room mate and me have been completely excepted into the family. I have already experienced my first Cava! Surprisingly, I quite like it! I'm called a Grub Monster there, as "tourists" usually don't like it. I love the feeling you get from it, after about 5 coconut shells full of it you feel so slow and relaxed, its brilliant. For those of you who don't know what Cava is, its a traditional Fiji drink made out of the ground up root of the Cava plant mixed up with water, so pretty much mud! Yay!<br /><br />The Centre for Special Education is amazing. I'm with the Vocational Training class at the end, so I help teach a class with a pretty large age range and they are also the most severely disabled in the school, its pretty damn tough but I really like it. The first morning I was introduced to the teacher and he ran through the names of the 22 students and their disabilities and then he was off and I stood there to teach them ... maths. I know a few of you will be laughing at the idea of me teaching maths thinking 'she can't even do maths! .. Try imagine how I felt!! But I survived. A lot of the kids are very difficult but I think I am already getting through to some of them and that I will really be able to succeed something with these kids. They are precious.<br /><br />All in all, three, four days? I've lost track already, seems likes months. I have completely fallen in love with this place.<div>P.s - something went faulty with uploading pictures to this blog, so you guys will have to wait a little longer till I can be bothered to upload them all up. :) </div></div>Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16378021619114862018noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1622827085022516065.post-88309343382962604032010-09-16T17:47:00.000+01:002010-09-16T17:56:55.379+01:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKSJVFJSnma1WLeiYevgUWcJN2KMh5z2yNqgw9RC9lxBbDcDYdMu6RT8MOD70TFgbx-LNKUk1IJTttLj0UFYh38SHJP0c932Le61bBZEIx00X3dtMRyIxS9u_ngu8ReTOS1U7r37uG0O_n/s1600/6.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKSJVFJSnma1WLeiYevgUWcJN2KMh5z2yNqgw9RC9lxBbDcDYdMu6RT8MOD70TFgbx-LNKUk1IJTttLj0UFYh38SHJP0c932Le61bBZEIx00X3dtMRyIxS9u_ngu8ReTOS1U7r37uG0O_n/s320/6.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5517554538739437330" /></a><br />Suddenly months have flown by and Fiji is a mere three weeks away (20 days, so one day less than a week) but that is beside the point. The point is that it is really here, it's happening. I'm going to the other side of the world to volunteer and give Fiji everything I have to offer. I'm not sure if a lot of people really understand how much this is/does mean to me. I still can't quite grasp what it is that makes me feel so strongly about it. <br />Anyway, I got my accomodation and placement details. The family I will be staying with have a three year old daughter who sounds like an absolute delight. Apparently my Fijian "mami" cooks very well, so I know I won't be going hungry! I will also be sharing that house with a girl from Germany. <br />My placement for the first month will be in The Nadi Centre for Special Education. I'm really really looking forward to the challenge. The hours will probably be tought to get used to (8am - 3pm) but I'll get through it. There is currently 168 pupils at the school and a few more who get home visits as they are unable to attend the actual centre. The Projects Abroad Team have been absolutely wonderful. Everyone I've talked to has been so so helpful and welcoming. I can't wait to get out there and meet them all.Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16378021619114862018noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1622827085022516065.post-70874641422137920452010-03-03T02:31:00.000+00:002010-09-16T17:39:03.959+01:00Fiji!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqW8s1x1mESAbpNegpphz2oXoJou_gaH6eHpigTmUFNTISXMa3APZn8mQ87Ip9q83tRPabwBk7nRjg0hcHxYhLV3anuXFxbcQvtnLtRlF_MMYDU0ULACOfbJOPT_HMkpjYU396kZ911A6F/s1600/dcafrg.bmp"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqW8s1x1mESAbpNegpphz2oXoJou_gaH6eHpigTmUFNTISXMa3APZn8mQ87Ip9q83tRPabwBk7nRjg0hcHxYhLV3anuXFxbcQvtnLtRlF_MMYDU0ULACOfbJOPT_HMkpjYU396kZ911A6F/s320/dcafrg.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5517551630402711922" /></a><br /><br /><br />The plain tickets for Fiji are booked. I can't begin to express how excited I am. <br />October seems like such a horribly long way away now.. <br />Now, to get through prelims! Fun, fun times.Gwenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16378021619114862018noreply@blogger.com3