Father’s Day in Australia

Yesterday was Father’s Day here, it saw Sue picked me up and we went to the cemetery meeting up with Dave & Leigh with Liarna and her boyfriend, Sandy with Temika and her boyfriend, Denni and a friend and Skylar. It was great everyone being there except for Jeannie who as usual didn’t attend. 

Father’s Day in Australia is celebrated on the first Sunday in September, marking the beginning of spring and giving families a chance to spend time together as the weather starts to warm. It is a day to recognise dads, grandfathers, stepfathers, careers and other father figures who support, guide and encourage the people around them.

Across Australia, families often celebrate with breakfast in bed, handmade cards, small gifts, a barbecue, a walk outdoors, or simply a phone call to say thank you. While Father’s Day is not a public holiday, it remains an important occasion for showing appreciation in personal and meaningful ways.

Historically, Father’s Day in Australia appears to have first been recognised in the early 1930s. The first recorded celebration took place in Melbourne in April 1930, although it took some time before the occasion became a regular national tradition.

More than anything, Father’s Day is about gratitude. It is a reminder to pause and acknowledge the everyday efforts, quiet sacrifices and steady presence of the people who help shape our lives.

I didn’t give Tim a present but I did give him a card with this written in it. 

Happy Father’s Day to My Beloved Husband

My dearest husband, Tim

On this Father’s Day, I thank God for the blessing of you — my husband, my partner, and the loving father you have been through the years. For 41 years, we have walked this journey together, held by God’s grace, strengthened by faith, and blessed with a love that has grown deeper through every season.

I am grateful for your steady heart, your prayers, your sacrifices, and the way you have cared for our family with love, patience, and strength. Your life has been a reflection of God’s goodness, and I honour you today for the man of faith, husband, and father that you are.

May the Lord continue to bless you, keep you, guide your steps, and fill your heart with peace. May He reward you for all the love you have given and surround you with the joy you so richly deserve.

Happy Father’s Day, my love. After 41 wonderful years, I still thank God for you every day.

With all my love,

Your wife Jo-Anne

Week 36 of 2026

Had a good night, slept well and was up at 4.30am, took a while to get going but I did.

Tim and I went out this morning he went to see if he could get the part for the chair, he couldn’t and was given the name of a man in Sydney who would look at it. I, however, would rather just get a new chair.

We then went Lake Fair to do some shopping and buy the time we was done I was done in and struggled to walk and at one point Tim seemed annoyed that I was struggling and kept stopping, after I said I was sorry I was so slow his attituded changed and he became more helpful and patient.

The rest of the day I have been so so not great but not too bad either. Which of course is what so so means.

Steps: 7,087 = 4.3k’s or 2.6 miles

Sunday is here and I am up and dressed after a nice shower, although I realised while I was getting dressed that I only shaved one leg oh well not doing anything about it now.

Tim went to Charlestown Square and bought himself a new pair of work pants.

It started out cool but warmed by 11am.

Tim has constructed a work bench from some old pallets he had out the back and is quite happy with it.

Steps: 7,689 = 4.7k’s or 2.8 miles

Here we are at the start of another working week and the last day of August also the last day of winter.

I have been up since 4.15am, it was a chilly cold start with a temp of 6c or 43f.

Workmen have been working on our next-door neighbours’ roof, he is at his daughters while the work is done.

It warmed up to 22c or 71f.

I feel like I have done bugga all today

Steps: 7,738 = 4.8k’s

Fpirst day of September. I slept well it was 4.57am when I got up. It was also only 6c or 43f at 5.30am.

A quiet day didn’t do much felt like going for a walk but had grocery deliveries at times that made me not want to go.

I did the usual housework and used the vibration board twice and I walked up and checked the letterbox had 3 letters for me and a small parcel for Tim.

Reached a top temp of 25c or 77f

Steps: 6, 128 = 3.8k’s or 2.4 miles

A new day after a good night, getting up with the alarm had a shower after Tim left and shaved both legs…lol

Spent 90 minutes looking at lift chairs online and finely ordered a new one. Of course it was the first one I looked at.

It is supposed to be another warm day it was 13c at 5am and by 11am it was 23c but didn’t feel that warm.

I managed to walk down and post 3 letters which felt good.

Steps: 10,644 = 6.6k’s or 3.5miles

Shopping day, I like shopping days because I like shopping, been up since 4.30am it was 15c or 59f.

I did a load of washing and hung it up to dry.

By the time I got home from shopping I was exhausted as usual, so I had something to eat and laid down for half an hour.

By midday the temperature had reached 27c or 80f, I had to turn the air con in the kitchen on for a short while to cool the house down.

The recliner I ordered yesterday arrived today, which was a surprise.

Tim came home from work in right foul mood taking his anger out on me or he was angry with me for something I did, I don’t know what I do know is that I am too exhausted to deal with his shit, so I am going to bed.

Steps: 8,259 = 5’s

Slept well woke with the alarm at 5am, Tim is in a better mood this morning at 6.30am it was 12c or 53f

Sue picked me up at 9.20am and I went to the post office and sent off Kathy’s birthday present, we then went to the Plaza to get a few things.

It has been a warm day top temp of 22c or 71f.

Other than going to the shops, I did not much else except for the usual housework.

Steps: 9,501 = 6k’s

I had another good night woke at midnight and 4.10am and was out of bed by 4.25 as I felt awake.

It is a hot day, and I have no energy today the heat drains my energy.

The day started cool but warmed up with the temp reached 29c and we are not in Summer yet, it is only the start of Spring.

Steps: 6,971 = 4k’s

Why Trans People Matter

Trans people matter because every person deserves to live with dignity, safety, and respect. A person’s gender identity is part of who they are and recognising that truth is a basic expression of human kindness. When trans people are accepted for who they are, they are better able to participate fully in families, schools, workplaces, communities, and public life.

Trans people matter because their lives, experiences, talents, and relationships matter. They are friends, parents, children, colleagues, classmates, artists, workers, leaders, and neighbours. Reducing trans people to a political debate overlooks their humanity. Like anyone else, they deserve to be seen as whole people with hopes, responsibilities, struggles, and contributions.

Supporting trans people is also about fairness. No one should have to hide who they are to be treated with courtesy, to access healthcare, to feel safe in public, or to be included in everyday spaces. Respect does not require everyone to have identical experiences or beliefs; it asks people to recognise each other’s humanity and act with compassion.

When trans people are affirmed, communities become more inclusive, honest, and humane. Standing up for trans people means standing up for the idea that everyone should be able to live without fear, shame, or exclusion. Trans people matter because they are people—and that should be enough.

A Poem and some links

When I look at you sister, this is what I see, think and feel.

I see a remarkable woman with a kind heart who is beautiful in ever sense of the word.

I see a smile that lights up the room and laughter that is truly contagious.

I see strength and wisdom beyond anything I have ever known.

I see love that’s pure and true compassion and thoughtfulness.

I see a woman who walks through this world with gentleness and grace.

I admire you for all that you are and all that you do.

You are everything wonderful in this world and if I had just one wish it would be that you could see what I see when I look at you.

By: Elle Mastro 

Here are this week’s links

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/09/septembers-first-hodgepodge.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/09/just-some-fill-ins.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/08/sharing-my-world_0223426885.html

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Mobile Phone Use While Driving in NSW, Australia

Hi everyone today I am writing about using a mobile phone while driving.

I think we all know that using a mobile phone while driving is a serious road safety issue not only in New South Wales but pretty much everywhere. A phone can distract a driver by taking their eyes off the road, their hands off the steering wheel, or their mind away from driving. Even looking away for a few seconds can increase the risk of missing hazards, slow reaction time, or causing a crash.

Drivers must not hold a phone in their hand or rest it on any part of their body while driving. Mobile phone detection cameras operate in NSW and can detect illegal phone use at any time. If a driver breaks the rules, they may receive a fine and demerit points, and double demerits can apply during holiday periods.

The safest choice is to avoid using a mobile phone while driving. Drivers can put their phone on silent, use “Do Not Disturb While Driving”, ask a passenger to help, or pull over and park safely before using the phone. Following these rules helps protect the driver, passengers, pedestrians, cyclists and everyone else on the road.

However, the rules are stricter for learners, and those on their “P’s” these drivers must not use a mobile phone at all while driving, even when stopped at traffic lights or stuck in traffic. This includes calls, texting, music, social media, maps and hands-free use.

In NSW, “P’s” refers to provisional licence stages. A P1 driver is a new solo driver who displays red P plates, while a P2 driver is a more experienced provisional driver who displays green P plates. Both P1 and P2 drivers still have special licence conditions because they are gaining experience on the road.

Full licence holders may use a phone only in limited ways, such as hands-free voice calls or audio, or when the phone is secured in an approved holder and used for calls, audio or navigation.

Airway Problems

Today I am looking at the problems we can experience with our airways, ya know those passages that carry air into and out of the lungs.

Problems can arise when said passages become narrowed, blocked, irritated, or inflamed. These passages include the nose, throat, voice box, windpipe, bronchi, and smaller breathing tubes in the lungs. When airflow is reduced, a person may find it harder to breathe, speak, sleep, exercise, or clear mucus from the chest.

The common causes are infections, allergies, asthma, chronic lung disease, smoke exposure, choking, swelling, injury, or structural narrowing of the airway. Some problems are short-term, such as a cold or allergic reaction, while others can be long-term and need ongoing medical care.

The signs and symptoms to look for include

·       Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

·       Noisy breathing, such as wheezing, whistling, or stridor

·       Persistent coughing or chest congestion

·       Tightness in the chest

·       Difficulty speaking, swallowing, or sleeping because of breathing symptoms

·       Blue, grey, or pale lips, gums, or fingernails in severe cases

As a severe airway problem can be life-threatening, we need to call for help sooner than often we may if someone is choking, cannot breathe or speak, has swelling of the face or throat, becomes confused or very drowsy, or develops blue, grey, or pale colouring around the lips or fingernails. It is time to stop scrolling and time to ring your emergency number here in Australia that is 000.

Treatment depends on the cause. It may include inhalers, allergy medicines, antibiotics for certain infections, oxygen support, removal of a blockage, or procedures to open a narrowed airway. Prevention can include avoiding smoke and known allergens, following an asthma or lung disease action plan, staying up to date with recommended vaccinations, and seeking medical advice when breathing symptoms are new, worsening, or unusual.

Next week we will look at specific conditions that block our airways.

Week 35 of 2026

I slept well and was up 3 minutes before the alarm went off. Tim didn’t get home till 2.30am and I have no idea what time he went to bed.

I feel good this morning and managed to sweep, vacuum and clean the kitchen.

I also went for a walk to post my letters.

Blain came to see his mum and came to see me as well, while here he helped Papa check the damage to my chair and Tim decided that he will be able to repair the chair.

Steps: 7,669 = 4.7k’s or 2.9miles

I slept well enough but was up at 4.15am.

Sue came and picked me up and we went to Officeworks to pick up some documents I had printed. We then went to the chemist to get more needles for Tim’s insulin.

Tasha told me she lost it with the workers, whenever she asked a question all they would say is “don’t know” at one point because she was frustrated and angry one of the workers started laughing at her which is when she told them to pack up and leave, she had to tell them 3 times to leave before they did.

She doesn’t know if they will come back or what. Because she is only 4’ 7” tall or 140cm tall some people think she is a push over she is not.

Steps: 7,712 = 4.8k’s or 2.9 miles

A new day has arrived; I got up at 4.45am and after feeling a bit sluggish this morning I am at last starting to feel ok.

I went to Tasha’s to wait in case workmen arrived they didn’t.

This afternoon I fell over, not much damage a bruised knee and a sore elbow, I didn’t hit my head but trying not to hit it I strained a muscle I suspect.

At first, I just laid on the floor, but when I tried to get up I couldn’t so I rang Tasha no answer so I rang Sue and said 6 words I’ve fallen and can’t get up the next thing I knew l had Tasha, Sue and Sandy here. Tasha had rung me back and I said the same 6 words to her.

In order to make others happy I am seeing the quack on Thursday morning.

Steps: 5,709 = 3.5k’s or 2.1 miles

A new day is here and a wet day it is my left knee and elbow are very sore, and I have a nasty small bruise on my knee.

I have had issues all day with my left leg and pain and not feeling stable when standing.

At 3pm I went to have a 30-minute lay down only to fall asleep for an hour.

Steps: 5,598 = 3.4k’s or 2.1 miles

Another day has arrived and it’s a somewhat cold start to the day.

My knee is really sore and has a dark bruise on it, my Dr’s appointment is at 8am, as it’s not raining, I will walk up to the top of the driveway to meet Sue.

Ok the doc said my knee and arm are fine and to use ice packs on my knee not heat packs as they can make the area bleed more darking the bruise and causing more pain.

The arvo has been fine done some housework, read some blog posts had little energy to do much at all.

Steps: 7,005 = 4.3k’s or 2.6 miles

Another day is here and it’s the last day of the working week. I have woken with not just a headache but an earache as well, so no hearing aids till that eases and as I am alone that should be ok

Did an email to our tendency officer about how I am concerned about Natasha’s state of mind due to all the shit going on with the workmen at her     place. She replied and acknowledged my concerns.

I was sitting here at my computer when in walks Sam and Jess, I felt so happy seeing Sam, I get the same way when seeing Blain and the girls, but I don’t see the girls much due to distance and their ages 13 & 16.

Had 2 naps today

Steps: 4,879 = 3k’s or 1.7miles

The Behaviour of Tuxedo Cats on Caturday with Luca

This week it is Luca and all tuxedo cats time to shine here, as todays Caturday post is about the behaviour of tuxedo cats.

Tuxedo cats are often known for their striking black-and-white markings, which make them look as though they are dressed for a formal occasion. However, a tuxedo cat is not a separate breed; it is a coat pattern that can appear in many different breeds and mixed-breed cats. Because of this, their behaviour is shaped more by their individual personality, upbringing, breed background, and environment than by their colouring alone.

Many owners describe tuxedo cats as confident, curious, playful, and affectionate. They may enjoy following people around the house, investigating new objects, and joining in daily routines. Some tuxedo cats are very social and vocal, while others are quieter and more independent. Like all cats, they communicate through body language, sounds, and habits such as rubbing, kneading, purring, or choosing favourite resting places near their humans.

Play is an important part of tuxedo cat behaviour. A bored cat may become restless, scratch furniture, or seek attention in mischievous ways, so toys, climbing spaces, scratching posts, and regular interaction can help keep them settled and happy. Puzzle feeders and short play sessions are especially useful for cats that seem clever, energetic, or easily bored.

Although tuxedo cats have a reputation for being charming and full of personality, it is important not to assume that every cat with this coat pattern will behave the same way. The best way to understand a tuxedo cat is to observe its individual preferences: how it likes to be touched, when it wants attention, what kind of play it enjoys, and where it feels safe. With patience, enrichment, and respectful handling, a tuxedo cat can become a lively, loyal, and entertaining companion.

Links and Life

Here are this week’s links

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/08/sharing-my-world_0223426885.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/08/last-august-hodgepodge.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/08/friendly-fill-ins_045024667.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2026/08/getting-too-know-you.html

              Living a Go-With-the-Flow Life Over an Intentional Life

Ok I have been thinking about how I live my life going with the flow over some who live what some may call an intentional life.          

I feel there is a quiet beauty in living a go-with-the-flow life. It does not mean being careless, passive, or without ambition. Instead, it means allowing life to unfold without needing to control every detail. It is the art of trusting the moment you are in, adapting when plans change, and believing that not every meaningful experience has to be scheduled, measured, or perfectly planned.

An intentional life may be praised because it gives direction. It asks us to set goals, make plans, choose our values, and move through the world with purpose. There is strength in that. But sometimes, a life that is too intentional can become heavy. Every choice can start to feel like a test. Every delay can feel like failure. Every unexpected turn can seem like evidence that we are falling behind.

Going with the flow offers a different kind of wisdom. It teaches patience. It reminds us that life is not only something to design, but something to experience. Some of the best moments arrive unannounced: a conversation that changes your perspective, an opportunity you did not expect, a detour that leads somewhere better than the original plan. When we loosen our grip, we make room for surprise, growth, and ease.

This does not mean giving up on dreams or drifting without care. A go-with-the-flow life can still have values, hopes, and direction. The difference is that it leaves space for change. It says, “I know what matters to me, but I do not need to force life to happen in one exact way.” It is less about abandoning intention and more about softening it.

Some may feel a peaceful way to live is to carry intention lightly by knowing yourself and remaining open to whatever. while noticing the scenery along the way. A go-with-the-flow life invites us to trust that we do not always have to chase life so tightly. 

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Using A Roundabout

Today I am looking at roundabouts which are common here in Australia. They began appearing in Australia in the late 1960s, with the first official Australian roundabout reported to have been built in Canberra in 1969. They became more common in later decades as traffic planners used them to improve safety and keep vehicles moving through intersections.

They are designed to keep traffic moving safely through intersections. In NSW, the most important rule is that drivers entering a roundabout must slow down and give way to any vehicle already in the roundabout. You should only enter when there is a safe gap.

When approaching a roundabout, be prepared to stop. You must give way to all vehicles already in the roundabout, including vehicles coming from your right, from directly opposite, or from your left if they have already entered. Giving way means slowing down or stopping to avoid a collision.

If turning left you must indicate left before entering the roundabout, stay in the left lane unless signs or arrows say otherwise, and keep indicating until you exit.

When going straight ahead do not indicate on approach. When leaving the roundabout, indicate left if it is practical to do so.

If turning right or making a U-turn you must indicate right before entering, use the right lane unless signs or arrows allow another lane, keep indicating right while turning, then indicate left when exiting if practical.

On multi-lane roundabouts, always follow the arrows and signs on the road. Plan ahead so you are in the correct lane before entering. If the left lane is marked for left turns only, you must not use it to go straight. If the right lane is marked for right turns only, you must not use it to turn left or go straight.

You should avoid changing lanes inside a roundabout if possible. If you need to change lanes, you must indicate, check your blind spot and give way to any vehicle in the lane you are moving into. You may only change lanes where the line is broken. When exiting, signal left if practical and stop indicating once you have left the roundabout.

Simple safety tips

·       Slow down as you approach and look for signs, arrows and give way lines.

·       Enter only when there is a safe gap in traffic.

·       Watch for cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians near the roundabout.

·       Do not assume another driver’s signal is correct; wait until it is safe.

·       Keep your speed low and be ready for traffic to stop suddenly.