This week’s bird is the kookaburra, which is a large, iconic bird native to Australia and famous for its loud laugh. It is part of the kingfisher family. It has a loud, cackling laugh often heard at dawn and dusk nicknamed the “bushman’s clock”
They are between 39-45cm’s in length and weigh between 370-450grm. Or 15-18 inches and 13-16 ounces.
What do they look like well they have a cream-white underparts, dark brown wings, reddish tail with black bars, and a prominent dark eye stripe.
They are native to eastern Australia; found in eucalyptus forests, woodlands, parks, and suburban gardens, their diet is carnivorous they feed on eats insects, small reptiles, rodents, and even snakes; uses a “wait-and-pounce” hunting method.
They are monogamous and territorial and make their nests in tree hollows or termite mounds and it isn’t uncommon for the young to stay with parents to help raise future chicks.
The kookaburra is deeply embedded in Australian culture, featured in children’s songs like “Kookaburra sits in the old gum tree.”
Its call is often used in movies and TV to evoke jungle or wild settings — even in places where kookaburras don’t live!
They typically live 10–15 years in the wild but can reach 20–25 years or more in captivity. Despite their resilience, kookaburras are sensitive to environmental changes. Conservation efforts that protect forests and nesting sites help ensure their survival in the wild.
In the northern part of the country there is a blue-winged kookaburra, which I know nothing about.
Time for another post about Japan this week I will share some facts like the population in 2025 is estimated to be approximately 123.1 million. It is the 12 most populous country in the world with a global rank of 12, the population density is 338 people per kilometre.
Japan’s population has been steadily declining since its peak around 2010 due to: low birth rates, high life expectancy and limited immigration. Over 28% of the population is aged over 65.
Now to Japan’s religious landscape is shaped by a unique blend of traditions, with Shinto and Buddhism as the two dominant faiths. Most Japanese people engage with both, often without exclusive affiliation.
Shinto means The Way of the Kami or the way of the Gods is Japan’s indigenous belief system, emphasizing harmony with nature, ancestor worship, and purification rituals. It lacks a founder, sacred texts, or rigid dogma.
Shinto shrines are common across Japan and serve as spiritual centres for festivals and life events.
Buddhism arrived in Japan from China and Korea in the 6th century. Multiple sects exist, including Zen, Pure Land, and Nichiren.
Surveys often show that 40–60% of Japanese identify as having “no religion”, but this typically reflects a lack of formal affiliation rather than disbelief. Many still participate in religious customs, festivals, and rituals for cultural or spiritual reasons.
Japan’s religious identity is fluid, ritual-cantered, and deeply intertwined with cultural life rather than doctrinal belief.
Now how about their flag, as I am sure most know it features a red circle on a white background, symbolizing the sun and most will know it reflects Japan’s identity as the Land of the Rising Sun.
The sun has been revered in Japan since ancient times, tied to the Shinto sun goddess Amaterasu, considered the mythical ancestor of the imperial family.
A good night’s sleep managed to get 8hrs & 56mins it is 17C this morning at 6.30am and my BGL was 7.1, it isn’t supposed to be as hot today.
By midday it was 25C so non need for the air con or fan just had the doors open. My BGL was 7.5 at midday before lunch.
I had to shut the front door at 2pm as the wind is now cold. At 4.30 my BGL wad 5.9.
It is now 7pm the temp is 16C and I am calling it a day; Tim is asleep on the lounge behind me.
Steps: 9,200 = 4.6klmns or 2.8miles
I slept for 10hrs, didn’t wake at all and I feel great this morning. My BGL at 5.30 was 6.5 and the temp was 14C or 57F
I spent 2.5hrs working on next year’s calendars but they are now done and ordered.
It hasn’t been that warm today top temp was 24C or 75F which is ok.
I have spent most of the day going around on autopilot especially this afternoon, but I did get stuff done other than the calendars I mopped the bathroom, laundry and kitchen floors. I vacuumed twice and swept the ramp out the front.
I also answered one letter still have a number to do.
Steps: 8,743 = 4.4klms or 2.7 miles
I slept for 9hrs & 20 Mins, didn’t wake at all and I am feeling good this crisp spring morning with a temp of 13C or 55.4F. I have physio this arvo which part of me doesn’t feel like attending but of course I will go.
I have been busy this morning with housework and exercising and reading and posting blogs, doing the laundry and running the dishwasher on a long wash to clean the machine as well as cleaning the dishes.
Tim finally went to the doctors to get his scrips and complain about his aching body; he now has to have more Xrays and CT scans done next Tuesday the 18th
By midday it is 25C or 77F, Sue and I went to my physio appointment, the new woman we saw was nice, she was young. I have been given new exercises to do, and I go back in January.
By the time we got back from the physio appointment it was 2.30 and 27C or 80.6F and my left arm is so sore.
Steps: 8,414 = 4.2klms or 2.6 miles
I had another good night slept for 7hrs with waking only once to pee, my left arm is very sore this morning. It is only 12C or 53.6F this morning and thankfully it is not supposed to be hot with a top temp expected to be only 21C or 69F.
Sue took me to have the cortisone injection, it went well, we then went to pick up some photos I had printed. Then we went and got KFC for lunch.
Around 2pm I started to get a headache and remembered that I always get on when I have that injection.
By 5pm the headache was bad, and I was starting to feel sick, my BGL was 14.9 but that due to the injection, it should go down some overnight.
It is 6pm and I’m off to bed as I feel horrible.
Steps:9,832 = 4.9klms or 3 miles
I slept great had 10hrs ad 52 mins of sleep woke once at 4.10am to pee, then again when the alarm went off.
At 6am it is 10C or 50F, it is supposed to reach a top of 30C or 86F. My BGL is 9.4 due to cortisone.
I went shopping with Sue and all went well I was starting to feel exhausted by the time I got home.
I have decided to not walk on the cobblestones in the visitors parking area as it always makes me feel unstable.
At 1.30pm my BGL is 10.4 it is also 28C or 82.4F. I turned the air con on as the heat wasn’t helping my headache.
At 7pm my BGL had dropped to 7.9 which is normal.
Tonight is Sam’s formal; I hope to get a photo of her and Bailey.
Steps: 13,813 = 7klm’s or 4.3 miles
Had a good night sleep managed to get 7hrs & 20 mins, my BGL was 7.1 when I got up and the temp was around 10C or 50F, I was up at 4.30 due to the pain in my left side.
I had a nice shower after Tim left so after I get the tattoo I will not have to worry about a shower for another couple of days.
At 8am the temp was 19C or 66F
Sue picked me and Jess up at 9am and drove us to Hamilton but as we were early, we went and had a milkshake, and Jess had a bacon and egg wrap. The tattoo took I think 1hr and 50 minutes, but I may be wrong about that, I slept for a good part of it. I am happy with how it looks.
I also had the name Sam added to my right hand near the name Leo.
Steps: 4,263 = 2klm’s or 1 mile
Good morning world, I was up at 5am as per usual, cleaned the kitchen, swept outside, vacuumed out, tossed on a load of washing, mediated and now it’s about time to check my emails.
My BGL at 6am was 6.8 and I slept for 7hr & 54 mins last night.
It doesn’t feel like I have done much today, I did hang the washing out to dry and I vacuumed again. I then spent well over an hour sorting through my mail and starting one letter which I just must print.
Hello everyone, today is Friday the 14 and I have had what feels like a long and busy week, Sue will be driving me and Jess into Hamilton so I can get at last the train tattoo in honour of my dad. I will post photos of it when it’s done.
I think the reason it feels like I have had a busy week is because I have gone out every day this week and I usually don’t do that.
Yesterday Tim bought me a small rechargeable desk fan which I have set up and will come in handy during the warm days.
I have done the usual housework this morning, vacuuming, unpacking the dishwasher, sweeping out the front as well as my usual exercises and of course I feed the birds this morning.
Ok it is now 12.45pm and I have just returned home from getting my tattoo done, it went well and I even managed to sleep for the first 75 minutes all up took around an hour and half.
Yes, I am happy with it. Thank you, Jess, for arranging it and thank you Sue for driving us there and home again.
Next week should be the usual stay at home and not go out type of week.
Well, here we are at another Wednesday and this week we looking at the what makes up our eyes, many of us have never really looked at our eyes.
Our eyebrows are thickened ridges of skin covered with short hairs, they come over the bone of the skull above the eye, protecting the eye from dust and such. The stop sweat dripping into the eye, they also protect the eye from some blows to the head.
Then we have our eyelids which we all know are folds of skin that open at the front of the eyeball. However, did you know they are made up of four layers an outer layer of skin with hairs we call eyelashes, then there is a layer of muscle, which allow the eyelid to open and close. There is also a layer of fibres and oil glands as well as a thin transparent inner layer.
Our eyelids protect the eye from many things and as soon as something threatens the eye, it will instantly close this is a reflex reaction. Out eyelids also allow us to blink and when we do tears are spread over the eyeball keeping it moist.
Did you know our eyelashes have around 200 fine hairs, with each one lasting about four months before it falls out and is replaced.
The outer layer of the eyeball is made up of the sclera and cornea, the sclera makes up about five-sixths of the layer and the cornea is one-sixth. The sclera is a tough, fibrous membrane and is the part we think of as the white part of the eye. It gives the eyeball its shape and protects the structures inside the eye. The cornea is transparent and lies in front of the iris and pupil, it makes a small bulge at the front of the eye. It has no blood vessels and it bends the light a little as it enters the eye.
Now to the conjunctiva this is joined continuously with the sclera, it is a thin transparent membrane that forms the inner lining of the eyelids. It also covers the whole surface of the eyeball except for the cornea. As we need to move the eyeball it is slack around the edges.
Lastly we have the iris and the pupil with the pupil being the small black dot we can see which is actually a hole and around it is a coloured ring called the iris which controls the size of the pupil by opening and shutting.
Last week I wrote about birds in general, this week I am writing about the Cockatoo.
Cockatoos are intelligent, expressive parrot’s native to Australasia, known for their dramatic crests, powerful beaks, and deep emotional bonds with humans. They’re among the most affectionate and long-lived pet birds.
There are around 21 recognized species, including the Sulphur-crested, Galah, Palm, and Major Mitchell’s cockatoos
They are native to Australia, New Guinea, Indonesia, and the Solomon Islands.
Typically white, black, or pink with dramatic crests; less rainbow-coloured than other parrots
Their beak is strong, curved with a unique “three-way bite” for cracking nuts and gripping objects
They live in flocks and form lifelong pair bonds, they are loud and expressive, you wouldn’t want one if you lived I an apartment due to their volume.
They like to eat seeds, nuts, fruits, roots, and insects; use their beaks and strong tongues to forage.
They have a lifespan: 25–60 years, with some living over 70 years in captivity, in the wild they live in tree hollows and both parents care for their young.
They reproduce through internal fertilization, followed by egg-laying and a dedicated incubation period of about 28–30 days. The female lays 1–3 eggs per clutch, typically spaced a few days apart. Eggs are laid in a nest cavity or nesting box lined with wood shavings or soft material. The eggs are white and oval, and both parents may take turns incubating them.
Incubation lasts 28–30 days, during which the eggs must be kept at a stable temperature (~37.2°C) and humidity (55–60%).
Eggs are turned regularly to ensure even development and prevent the embryo from sticking to the shell. They are born blind and featherless, relying entirely on their parents. Their feathers start appearing in a few weeks and by 10 to 12 weeks they are ready to leave the nest.
They are highly social and attentive parents, often forming lifelong bonds. They teach their young vocalizations, foraging, and social behaviours essential for survival.
Time for some more facts about Japan we will start with the fact that it is the custom to remove shoes before entering a house.
This is a deeply intrenched tradition which is tied to cleanliness, respect and cultural boundaries. In fact, it dates back to the Heian period which was way back in 794. Back then nobles would remove footwear to protect raised wooded floors. However, it became widespread from 1603 thus evolving into the national norm across all social classes.
Now days the removal of shoes is a sign of respect for the homeowner and their space; it reflects the idea that the home is a sacred and private place.
Now many of you like me may wonder why they do this, well shoes carry dirt, moisture and bacteria into a house these things can damage delicate flooring like tatami mats. Tatami mats are used for sitting, eating, and sleeping, so keeping them clean is essential.
Japan’s humid climate makes homes vulnerable to mould, especially during the rainy season—removing shoes helps prevent this.
In Japanese homes there is an area called a genkan, this is a lower entry area where shoes are removed. This space marks the transition from the “soto” (outside) to the “uchi” (inside), reinforcing social and spatial boundaries.
So, what do there wear inside? Usually slippers if not barefoot, however, special slippers are used for bathrooms to maintain hygiene between rooms.
Many wear socks inside their homes, especially in formal settings or during the colder months.
When visiting someone’s home, it is considered polite to wear clean socks after removing outdoor shoes. Bare feet may be seen as too casual or unhygienic. It is normal for people to carry clean socks with them as not to be caught wearing socks with holes, as this would be highly embarrassing.
I woke at 6am up washed and dressed it is supposed to be another warm day, I slept well got 7hrs 16mins of sleep. The temp this morning is 18C or 64F.
Tim and I went shopping and by the time we were done I was so exhausted, it showed so Tim told me to not walk so fast and to take it easy.
Today’s top temp was 25C or 77F and I have felt sticky most of the day.
By 7.30pm it’s 20C and I am so exhausted I am going to bed.
Steps:12, 710 = 6klm’s or 3.8 miles
BGL: 6.5
Up at 5am as per usual and waiting for Tim to leave for work till I have a shower, speaking of Tim he looks exhausted I asked how he slept only got a mumble reply, he said something about heat stroke but that’s not what’s wrong with him but what do I know. We are in for another very warm to hot day. At the moment it is 18C or 64F.
Sue’s Dr’s appointment was stressful as the doctor she saw went on about her weight, smoking and did she need her anxiety medication. Sue has her regular GP and only saw this woman because her GP was booked out. Her toe is healing well.
By midday the temp here is 28C or 82F and I had to turn the air con on.
BGL:6.0
Steps: 16,600 =n 8.5klm’s or 8 miles
It is 1.30am and I have had no sleep due to dyskinesia, and I am so tired but every time I lay down the jerking movements will not let me settle, I have been up and down for hours, and I am so frustrated.
At 3.15am I decided to come and sit in my recliner should had done that earlier as I fell asleep quick there.
I was still up at 5.45am dressed and reading blogs while I wait for the groceries to be delivered after that I will go back to bed for a little while. I had around 2hrs sleep.
I had a 1.5hr nap at 9am.
It has been a warm day.
BGL 6.0
Steps 7,307 = 3.6klm’s or 2 miles
I slept really well, got 9hrs & 54mins, didn’t wake at all. Sue took me to the doctors then we went to Woolies before coming home.
I have been referred to have a cortisone injection in my right hip area, as I do have bursitis.
It is a nice 22C today, well it was till around 1pm when it went up 25C or 77F.
I am feeling sad this afternoon, I don’t know why I just do.
Steps: 8,882 = 4.5klm’s or 2.8miles
BGL:6.1
I slept well had a good 8hrs sleep didn’t wake at all. It is 13C or 55.4F here this morning it is supposed to be 25C today.
I have had a busy morning, vacuumed twice, swept the kitchen floor, unpacked the dishwasher, did a load of laundry hung it up and took the clothes hoists outside to dry. Emptied a couple of bins and Sam took the bags outside to the black bin. Cleaned the skirting boards in the hallway. Checked emails and read some blogs.
Yes, Sam came over for food she made herself a toasted ham & cheese sandwich.
It has been a warm day with a top temp of 25C or 77F.
It has felt like a long day.
BGL @ 5.30am 6.1
Steps: 13,868 = 7klm’s or 4.2 miles
I didn’t have a good night I was unable to settle and at 12.40am I got up and checked emails, then I sat in my recliner and went to sleep, I only stayed there 50 minutes then I went back to bed and fell asleep pretty fast.
I got up at 5.30 after Tim left and had a shower, after getting dressed I came out opened the house up, tidy the kitchen and vacuumed out. Yes, I am still tired and yes, I could have stayed in bed longer, but this is my best part of the day, and I can have a nap later.
Last night when I was unable to sleep, I emailed the Xray place about an appointment and they rang at 9.30 to let me know that they have one next Wednesday at 10.20am.
I went and had a nap at 11am, I slept till 12.20 and didn’t move at all during that time.
The temp at 5.30 is 15C or 59F
The temp at 12.30 is 25C or 77F
The temp at 4pm is 29C of 84F
BGL @ 6.30 is 7.0
BGL @ 9.30 is 7.7
BGL @ 4pm is 8.1
Steps: 7,851 = 4klm’s or 2.5 miles
I slept well I was in bed by 6.40pm as I was so tired and slept through till 4.40am when I got up to pee. When the alarm went, I laid there for 20 minutes before getting up. No milkshake this morning as I took the blender apart and put it in the dishwasher which hasn’t been on yet. I might just have a glass of Milo instead.
Tim and I went shopping and it took a lot out of me and Tim started to fill unwell, so cut it short and came home.
It has been a sticky day, and I had to turn the air con on around midday, the wind is a hot one.
I am feeling exhausted and will be in bed early again.
Good morning all, today Nana is sharing a clip of me checking out this strange human mum brought home, it doesn’t have skin like other humans and it doesn’t have fur either, it has weird smell, mum calls it Barry. I guess if its going to be m around I will have to get use to it.
Jo-AnneRamplings 