International Talk Like a Pirate Day

Ahoy me hearties, today 19th September is International “Talk Like a Pirate Day” now who would of thought such a day even existed? So grab your eye patches and read on..

Ye landlubber! Listen to me tale o’ Talk Like a Pirate Day, a holiday so absurd, ye won’t be able to resist joinin’ the fun. ‘Twas back in 1995, when two jolly mateys from Oregon came up with the idea while sweatin’ off their brows playin’ racquetball. At first, ’twas a secret affair, shared only among a small band o’ miscreants. But then, in 2002, they had a brilliant notion: they wrote to the famous humorist Dave Barry and begged him to be the spokesperson for this nonsensical celebration. And ye know what? That mighty pirate-lovin’ fella said aye! He penned a column that be shouted from the mountaintops, spreadin’ the joy o’ Talk Like a Pirate Day far ‘n wide.

Now, let’s talk about pirates – those scurvy sea dogs with peg legs and eye patches that make our imaginations run wild. They’ve been searchin’ for booty across the seven seas for centuries. The first recorded accounts of these salty buccaneers be from the Asian waters after the Chinese Han dynasty fell way back in the 2nd century. And as technology improved and ocean trade expanded, piracy became a profitable profession worldwide. Ah, the Golden Age of Piracy! Whenever we think of it, we can’t help but envision Robert Louis Stevenson’s “Treasure Island” – that swashbucklin’ adventure novel that plum shaped the way we think of pirates. Think treasure maps, talkin’ parrots, and hidden riches! Arrr, it’s become the ultimate pirate cliché.

And let me tell ye about Disneyland’s legendary “Pirates of the Caribbean” ride, me heartie. Opened in 1967, it was the last project Walt Disney worked on afore he set sail to Davy Jones’ locker. Set in a picturesque Caribbean port under siege, the ride is a delight full of intricate details and epic plunderin’.

Now, don’t ye be disappointed when I tell ye that most o’ the jolly pirate phrases ye know be nothin’ but hogwash! But fear not, me matey, that won’t stop ye from havin’ a rip-roarin’ good time on this hilarious occasion. So gather ye grog (only if ye be of age), round up yer mateys, and let yer imaginations run wild as ye embark on an adventure o’er the treacherous high seas! Yo ho ho and a bottle o’ rum!

While we are in pirate mode lets take a look at some Pirate movies to enjoy on this pirate talk day according to IGN.com

Top 10 Pirate movies

1- Treasure Island 1934 starring Jackie Cooper is Jim Hawkins

2-Peter Pan 1953

3- Treasure Planet 2003 based on Treasure Island this movie has a similar narrative but is more sci fi based oddyse for kids

4- Captain Phillips 2013. This modern day pirate movie stars Tom Hanks and is based on a true story around modern day Somalli pirates.

5- The Princess Bride 1987, Classic part pirate, part romance.

6-Hook 1991. A Stephen Spielberg classic which is underreated but well worth a watch. Starring the late great Robin Williams.

7- Muppet Treasure Island 1996. What can we say about this its a muppet caper with classic jokes and some great cameo roles.

8- Porco Rosso 1952, One ive never even heard of Likely the most off-the-wall addition to this list, Porco Rosso is a fantastical tale from Hayao Miyazaki that deserves a spot nonetheless. Cursed to have the appearance of a human-like pig, Porco Rosso (Shûichirô Moriyama) is an Italian World War I fighter pilot that takes to the skies to fight off pirate aviators and stop their immoral acts. Celebrated by some as one of the more obscure, quality Miyazaki films, Porco Rosso holds a special place in the hearts of many.

9-Serenity 2005 loosely based around the Sci Fi series Firefly

10- Pirates of the Caribbean 2003, We couldnt leave Jack Sparrow off the list. Probably the most famous pirate in the world Jack Sparrow played by the inimitable Orlando Bloom. Pirates is the mother of all pirate franchises.

Spooky Season

Sure thing! Halloween, also known as Samhain (spooky season), is coming up soon. I haven’t really celebrated it much in the past, but as I get older, I’m starting to enjoy it more and more. I don’t know if it’s the hype or the fun or the American influence, but I really like it, and I can’t wait to buy more stuff to decorate our home.

Samhain is all about the time when summer and winter mix and meet. It originally started in Ireland, and it’s all about the living and the dead coming together. It’s said that spirits of ancestors visit their homes and communities during this time, so people would welcome them by preparing food, gathering around bonfires, and dressing up in special clothes and masks. They even used to carve faces into turnips to scare away evil spirits.

Halloween gives us the chance to face death and our fears in a playful and safe way. We can watch horror and thriller movies and enjoy all the creepy things that go bump in the night. It’s a time to have fun and enjoy the spooky atmosphere.

Even Primani are getting in on the act this year with a halloween collection such is the hype but my fave way to buy for Halloween and any other Celebratory events is to buy from small businesses they have such a lot to offer that the big stores dont and I much prefer the individual service you get buying this way either online or in person.

One such shop ive found this year is The Ghost Next Door, and independent shop that has just started out, and im more than happy to support and watch grow.

Autumn Vibes

As the dark nights seem to be drawing in early we thought ig would be a great time to bring out the autumn decorations .

We havent bought any new ones yet but last years have been safely stored away.

Autumn Vibes

Now we cant wait to have our autumn break next week to the Norfolk Broads. Then it will be roll out the Halloween decs.

We do love this time of year.

Workplace Banter

New study reveals what Brits REALLY think about workplace banter

With the average Brit spending 36.7 hours of their week at work, banter is bound to enter the workplace, from a self-deprecating joke to poking fun at something or someone.  But is banter in the workplace really welcomed? A new study conducted by language learning platform Preply reveals just this.  https://preply.com/en/blog/uk-banter-capitals/  According to the results, the majority of colleagues (41%) found banter in the workplace to be acceptable, ‘as long as it is light-hearted and appropriate’, for example, teasing a colleague about a favourite sports team or sharing funny stories from the weekend. The cities that were the biggest advocates of bantering at work were Plymouth (55%), Leeds (54%), and Norwich (54%).  Women (41%) were also slightly more likely than men (40%) to enjoy a pun with colleagues, whilst those 55+ were having the most laughs at work (42%). The second largest percentage of Brits (36%) believed banter should only be accepted if ‘it’s not offensive or disrespectful to any employee’.  On the flip side, a smaller 11% of Brits felt that there was no place for banter at work, stating ‘it should be avoided in the workplace for the sake of professionalism’. See the full breakdown of Brits’ attitudes toward humour on the job below…

Opinion
Percentage
It should be accepted as long as it is light-hearted and appropriate
41.00%
It should only be accepted if it is not offensive or disrespectful to any employee
36.00%
It can be an effective way to build relationships and create a positive work environment
29.00%
It can cause tension between colleagues and reduce productivity
14.00%
None of these
16.00%
All forms of banter should be avoided in the workplace for the sake of professionalism
11.00%

What day is today? tuesday 22nd August.

Well Happy Tuesday would you just believe it today is Tuesday 22nd August International Tooth Fairy Day

Today we celebrate the wonder and excitment of our children losing their milk teeth,, and leaving it under the pillow in exchange for a treat, when my girls where little the going rate was 20p-50p but I believe its now anywhere up to £2. (cant blame that on brexit) or can we?

Ah, let me sprinkle some humor on the mystical tales of our beloved Tooth Fairy! Picture this: in a world filled with Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy joins the ranks of these legendary figures. But while Santa and the Bunny hog the limelight, our winged friend remains an enigma, an elusive creature. It’s almost like a game of hide-and-seek, but with teeth!

Now, brace yourself for a history lesson, with a twist of laughter. Way back in the 13th century, in good ol’ England, a clever fellow named Gervase of Tilbury introduced fairies to the world. But wait, there’s more! Medieval Europe took the tooth-loving tradition up a notch. You see, kids would receive a little “tooth fee” from their parents for each lost tooth. It’s like getting paid for growing up—one pearly white at a time. Those teeth were considered lucky charms, so imagine Viking warriors, all tough and fearsome, wearing tooth necklaces into battle. Talk about fashion-forward, toothy bling!

So there you have it, the whimsical roots of the Tooth Fairy. A mystical creature who tiptoes into children’s bedrooms, swapping those precious lost teeth for a tiny treasure. Let’s just hope that fairy floss isn’t involved, or things could get a little sticky. Happy tooth hunting, young ones!

Once upon a time, in a land not so far away, there was a mischievous little creature known as the Tooth Fairy (cue mysterious music). Legend has it that this tooth-stealing bandit originated from an 18th-century French fairytale called “La Bonne Petite Souris” (try saying that three times fast). But it wasn’t until a crafty author named Lillian Brown hatched a brilliant plan in 1908 that the Tooth Fairy really took flight.

Picture this: parents struggling to tug out their kids’ loose milk teeth. Enter Lillian Brown, with a stroke of genius. She planted a seed (or should we say tooth?) in parents’ minds—a myth about a magical creature who roamed the night, snatching up teeth and replacing them with a shiny coin. Ingenious, right?

Fast forward to 1927, when Esther Watkins Arnold penned a play called “The Tooth Fairy.” That play spread like wildfire, infecting schools everywhere with visions of a tooth-snatching fairy paying top dollar for chompers. Suddenly, kids were willingly parting with their teeth, hoping for a hefty payday.

And thus, the Tooth Fairy epidemic began to spread worldwide. From the United Kingdom to Canada and Australia, this sneaky sprite was on the prowl, pillaging pillows and leaving treasures in its wake. So, remember, next time you lose a tooth, keep one eye open, for the legend of the Tooth Fairy lives on, ready to make a trade: your precious pearly whites in exchange for a shiny surprise. Sweet dreams—and watch out for those missing molars!

What Day is it Today

What Day is it Today

National Senior Citizens Day, Aug 21st 2023

Today is a special day dedicated to honoring and celebrating our beloved senior citizens. It serves as a reminder to cherish the valuable wisdom and experiences they bring to our lives. Growing older is a natural part of life, and we are fortunate to be living in a time where people are living longer lives. However, we must acknowledge the financial and health challenges that often come with the aging process.

National Senior Citizens Day not only acknowledges the increased life expectancy but also highlights the importance of respecting and supporting our elders. It is a day to recognize the struggles some seniors face, such as loneliness and being disconnected from loved ones. If you have older relatives or friends, make the most of this day by reaching out to them, whether it be through a simple phone call or spending quality time together. Your gesture can truly brighten their day and remind them that they are loved and valued.

In the past century, advancements in technology and healthcare have significantly contributed to the rise in life expectancy. The average life expectancy has surpassed previous records, with notable improvements in health services. In the 1950s, life expectancy was around 48 years. By 2014, it had risen to 71.5 years, and currently, in the UK, it stands at over 81.65 years (2022).

The origin of National Senior Citizens Day dates back to 1988 when former US President Ronald Reagan delivered a heartfelt speech emphasizing the importance of expressing gratitude towards our senior citizens. He called upon communities to ensure that older individuals are provided with the necessary support and services to maintain their independence and dignity.

Today, let us come together to show our appreciation for the remarkable contributions and resilience of our senior citizens. Together, we can create communities that embrace and uplift our aging population, making them feel cherished and valued every day of the year.

C’mon England

Today is a freakin’ big day, folks! The badass England Ladies Football Team is going head to head with the Spanish ladies in Australia for the Women’s World Cup final 2023. These gals have come a long way, man! They’ve gone from being practically unknown a few years ago to dominating their game with passion that even the dudes can’t match.

Ladies’ football has been around since 1972 and it’s been gaining major popularity year after year. And these kickass ladies are the ultimate ambassadors for the sport.

Their coach, Sarina Wiegman, is a former player herself and she’s got an insane track record. She’s lost only once in 37 games, won a European cup, and now she’s leading the team to the World Cup final. Can England finally bring it home? The men have been trying since 1966, man. Let’s hope these girls can do it!

This team is made up of ladies from all over the UK. They started their careers at local clubs, just like any other footballers. But I gotta say, they show more freaking passion than any male football team out there.

England has a pretty solid record against Spain, man. They’ve only lost 2 out of their last 13 encounters, with the most recent one being in the Euros where England emerged victorious with a 2-1 score. Overall, they’ve won 7, drawn 4, and lost 2.

Leading the team onto the field is Millie Bright, who’s a total badass Chelsea defender. She used to play for Doncaster Belles and Leeds Ladies. Let me tell ya, she’s an absolute boss when it comes to defending and she sets a badass example for the rest of the team.

We’ll find out the rest of the starting lineup right before kickoff, man. Fingers crossed it doesn’t go to penalties, but if it does, you better believe these ladies will be giving it their all!

No pressure, ladies, but the entire UK will be rooting for you at 11am today. Go get ’em!

Bring it Home.

World Photography Day

Hey there! Today is World Photography Day, so I wanted to share something cool with you. Let’s talk about my absolute favorite hobby – photography!

World Photography Day is a momentous occasion that allows us to wholeheartedly celebrate the incredible art, craft, and rich history of photography. It is a day that honors the remarkable science behind capturing captivating images that hold the power to evoke emotions and immortalize precious moments. Join us in embracing the beauty of this art form and appreciating the brilliant minds behind the lens on this extraordinary day.

In the mesmerizing realm of history, we find ourselves transported to the glorious year of 1837. It was during this momentous time that two extraordinary Frenchmen, Louis Daguerré and Joseph Nicéphore Niepce, embarked on a journey that would forever alter the course of photography. With their ingenious creation known as the Daguerreotype, a captivating new world of visual storytelling emerged, igniting a fiery passion within the hearts of artists and visionaries alike. It is with great fervor that we celebrate the birth of this revolutionary technique, for it paved the way to capturing the ethereal beauty of our world and immortalizing it in a single, awe-inspiring image.

Oh, how exhilarating it is to celebrate World Photography Day! This year, get ready to immerse yourself in the breathtaking wonders of “LANDSCAPES.” Let your passion for photography guide you as you capture the beauty of nature’s grandeur. It’s time to unleash your creativity and embark on a visual journey that will leave a lasting impression. So grab your camera, find the perfect vantage point, and let the world be your canvas. Happy World Photography Day!

On this glorious World Photography Day, let us delve into the captivating world of “PORTRAITS.” Portraits have long been a beloved genre in photography, allowing us to capture the essence and personality of individuals, frozen in time. Whether it’s a touching family portrait, an intimate self-portrait, or a striking portrait of a stranger, each photograph tells a unique story and reveals a glimpse into the human experience.

In the realm of portraits, the photographer becomes a storyteller, skillfully weaving together the subject’s emotions, expressions, and surroundings to create a narrative that resonates with viewers. Through careful composition, lighting, and the art of capturing the decisive moment, photographers have the power to capture the raw and authentic beauty of their subjects.

A great portrait not only showcases the physical features of a person but also reveals their inner essence. It is the photographer’s responsibility to create a comfortable and relaxed environment, allowing the subject to truly be themselves in front of the lens. By building a connection with their subjects, photographers can capture genuine and emotive moments that become cherished memories for years to come.

As we celebrate World Photography Day, let us take a moment to appreciate the skilled photographers who have mastered the art of portraiture. Their ability to capture the depth of human emotions and the uniqueness of each individual is truly awe-inspiring. So, whether you’re behind the camera or in front of it, embrace the power of portraits and let your own story be told through the lens.

Happy World Photography Day!

On this extraordinary occasion, I cannot contain my excitement as I present to you a curated collection of my absolute favorite photographs captured throughout the years!

Allow me to divulge one of my invaluable secrets of photography: always remember to look behind you! While the scenery ahead may be enchanting, it is often when we turn around that we discover breathtaking perspectives and captivating moments that others may have overlooked. The world is an endless reservoir of beauty just waiting to be immortalized through your lens.

Embrace this opportunity to embark on a thrilling visual journey, immersing yourself in the wonders of photography. Venture out, immerse yourself in the thrill of exploration, and share the magic of your experiences with the world. Let your passion shine through every frame you capture!

May this fervent inspiration ignite your creative spirit and push the boundaries of your photographic prowess. Unleash your imagination, seize the moment, and paint the world with the colors of your singular vision. Happy capturing, and enjoy the undeniable joy that comes with sharing your extraordinary adventures with others!

Not a Barbie Girl