Week 52 of 2025

Here we are at another Sunday, I hope everyone who reads this is well.

Had a good night, Tasha came and helped me get ready for me as Tim is working.

Being Sunday, it is no alarm day so up at 6am not 5am at 6.30 it is 22C or 71F and I am already starting to sweat.

I had a good 10hrs & 15 mins of sleep. My BGL is 7.0

I cleaned the kitchen, threw a load of clothes on to wash, hung it out and took clothes hoists outside, swept the flood as didn’t want to disturb Tim and fed the birds all by 6.30am.

Speaking of Tim he didn’t get home till 2am.

By 10am it was 34C or 93F, at midday I started to feel unwell, I have a headache and my concentration is terrible, it is now 37C or 98.6F.

This afternoon Tim decided he wanted to buy a portable air conditioner for the lounge room, so did some checking found on at Big W in Mount Hutton and bought it, he should be able to pick it up tomorrow. They had some in stock, but I didn’t want them to be sold out by the time Tim would get there to buy one had that type of thing happen in the past.

Tim checked the thermometer outside at 2pm and it read 45C or 113F.

Steps: 13,821 = 8k’s or 5 miles.

Up at 5am, showered and dressed it is very warm with a temp of 28C or 82.4F, I had a good night’s sleep getting BGL was 6.5 at 6am.

When Tim went pick up the new portable air conditioner, I had him dropped off me off at the plaza so I could do some shopping.

This afternoon it rained for a while, then stopped only to start again.

I have not felt well on and off all day and think I will be in bed early.

Some people have senior moments I have Parkinson’s moments, lately what is in my head comes out wrong from my mouth and it is so depressing, I am getting names wrong calling him her or her him I feel distressed when I do this and wonder what others are thinking about my stuff ups.

I went to share the above paragraph to Facebook only to get a message that my account had been, they wanted me to verify who I was I did what was asked and I will see tomorrow if it has been reinstated.

Steps: 7,411 = 3.7k’s or 2.2 miles

I had a good night’s sleep getting 9hrs, it is 20C or 68F at 5.30am we are headed for a top temp of 30C. My BGL was 7.0

When I checked Facebook, my account had been permanently deleted, so I tried to create another account, but it was rejected. I then came across the account in the name Anne Meadows, and it works do that is what I am using.

Sue and I took Jeannie’s Christmas present from me then we went to visit mum & dad.

I opened Sue’s gift to me, 2 diaries, a small calendar and a small plaque with a message to a sister.

Tim went and set Sue’s new air con up in her bedroom and he also set ours up in the dining room area and it made a big difference. I could tell Tim was surprised how well it worked.

It reached a top of 33C or 91.4F

Steps:9,768= 4.9k’s or 3 miles

Had another good night which 9hrs & 30mins of sleep, my BGL was 6.7 and the temp at 6am was 20C or 68F. we are looking at a top temp of 30C or 86F.

I mopped the bathroom and kitchen floors as well as vacuum out. At 9am it was 24C or 75F.

My brother and Sister in-law came over to drop of some were here e turkey while they were here, I gave them their presents, Leigh seemed to really like her gifts.

By 3pm it was 28C or 82.4F, we don’t have the air con on.

I feel so sad this afternoon, I can’t say why because I don’t know. Sue sent me a photo of Archie and that made me smile and feel a little less sad.

Tim has been helping Natasha with a few things without complaint, she has stripped and repainted one of her bedrooms, wall and ceiling and door, she removed the door and replaced it herself after she sanded it and repainted it. The room looks good, when she is done with this room she is going to start on another one.

Steps:13,385 = 6.8k’s or 4.1 miles

CHRISTMAS DAY

I have been up since 4.35, as I was having trouble sleeping, couldn’t lay on my left side it hurt my shoulder, couldn’t lay on my right side it hurt my hip and laying on my back made that ache.

Jessica and Sam came over at 7am and opened their presents, Tim got up to watch. After they left Tim asked why I gave Sam a skirt and how I was enabling him in his silliness. I said I am supporting her in her decision.

Tasha came down to let us know she will prepare dinner for us not lunch as Jess is sleeping most of the day as she is working tonight.

Later, around 11.15am Blain and Ta’lia arrived and I gave them their presents T was surprise that I gave her so much but seemed pleased with everything.

Kathy rang around 2pm to wish me Merry Christmas.

Dinner was at 4.15pm, Tim cooked the meat and Tash made potato bake, it was ok.

Sandy rang to wish me Merry Christmas

Steps: 6,220=3l’s or 1.8miles

BOXING DAY

Here we are at the 26 Dec. 25 and down here we refer to this as Boxing Day don’t ask why, I don’t know we just do.

I am up showered and dress it is a nice 17c or 62f at 5am, my BGL was 6.5 and I had 9hrs and 55mins of sleep last night.

It is a cold day I am in long leggings and socks to keep my feet warm.

I was so very tired that at 10.30 I went and had an hour nap, after that I was more awake and with it.

We went to Kathy’s for lunch which was wonderful, I had a good time, and I think the gifts we gave were liked.

The top temp was only 19c or 66f.

Steps:6,820=3.4k’s or 2.1miles

Had a good night’s sleep got 8hrs & 35mins, I am now up washed and dressed the temp this morning at 5.30am was 14c or 57f. My BGL was 6.6.

Tim and I are going out to lunch at the Eastern Tiger.

I got motivated to clean the bathroom and do some dusting this morning. By 9.30 it was 20c or 68f.

Lunch was ok I didn’t eat much just no appetite. Got a text from Leigh and it has been decided to cancel the siblings gathering this year as none of us are feeling it.

Kathy rang this afternoon and she was in a right mood; she is pissed that no one other than her and Sue gave me a Christmas present as she feels I do so much for everyone else. She said I shouldn’t be getting them any gifts for them. I said that’s not how I am.

Steps: 8,451 = 4.2k’s or 2.6 miles.

The Importance of Christmas

Today I am looking at the importance of Christmas as we all know Christmas is one of the most widely celebrated holidays across the world, particularly in Australia and other Western nations. Christmas holds deep cultural, social, and spiritual significance for people of many different backgrounds. Its importance extends beyond religious beliefs, influencing community life, family traditions, and the economy.

For Christians, Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, a central figure in Christianity. This event symbolises hope, redemption, and the promise of peace. Many people attend church services, listen to Christmas carols, and reflect on messages of kindness and goodwill during this period. The spiritual aspect also encourages selflessness and generosity, inspiring charitable acts and community support.

This is a time when families and friends come together, often travelling long distances for reunions. In Australia, it’s common to celebrate with backyard barbies, beach picnics, and such but not in my family.

Many people like to decorate their home inside and out; me I do some decorations inside as well as some window stickers outside but not a lot.

The Christmas season stimulates economic activity, with retailers experiencing a surge in sales as people buy gifts, decorations, and food. Many Australian businesses rely on the holiday period for a significant portion of their annual revenue. Additionally, Christmas markets and local events provide opportunities for small businesses and artisans to thrive, contributing to the broader economy.

Christmas is also associated with giving and helping those in need. Many Australians participate in charity drives, donate to food banks, or volunteer their time. This spirit of generosity reinforces community values and reminds us of the importance of compassion, empathy, and looking out for one another. Locally as in where I live, we have the bikers for Christmas toy run. I am including a couple of links for those who want to know more about the toy run.

Christmas and Boxing Day are public holidays here and for those who have to work on these days they get paid either double time or double time and a half.

Generally speaking, Christmas is much more than a public holiday; it is a complexed celebration that enriches spiritual life, strengthens relationships, boosts the economy, and encourages kindness. Whether celebrated for its religious roots or as a time for family and community, Christmas holds a special place in Australian society, making it one of the most important times of the year.

Christmas Stories

Ok how about we take a look at some Christmas stories that are well known when you think of Christmas stories what comes to mind?

Over time and across generations and cultures, some Christmas stories have become beloved classics, read and cherished every festive season.  Here are few that popped into my head while thinking about this topic.

The first one being a Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens which tells the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly old man who is transformed by visits from the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come. Dickens’ tale is not only a critique of Victorian society but also a powerful reminder of the joy that generosity and compassion can bring.

The one I would read to my daughter’s every Christmas was The Night Before Christmas by Clement Clarke Moore, this story is also known as ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, and this classic poem paints a vivid picture of a visit from St. Nicholas.

Another book liked by many is How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss but I am not one of them, in fact I am not a fan of Dr. Seuss. This playful and rhyming tale follows the Grinch, a green and grouchy creature who attempts to steal Christmas from the Whos of Whoville. With its message that the true meaning of Christmas lies in togetherness rather than presents, this story remains a festive favourite for children and adults alike.

I like the movie Polar Express but didn’t realise it was a book by Chris Van Allsburg, it is a beautifully illustrated story, The Polar Express tells of a young boy’s magical train journey to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. This tale of belief and wonder captures the imagination and the spirit of Christmas in a profoundly touching way.

There are some popular Australian stories because in Australia, Christmas falls in the summer, so there are some unique festive stories that reflect our local culture and traditions. Popular tales include ‘Wombat Divine’ by Mem Fox, which follows a lovable wombat who wants to be part of the nativity play, and ‘An Aussie Night Before Christmas’ by Yvonne Morrison, a humorous reimagining of the classic poem featuring kangaroos and utes instead of reindeer and sleighs.

Germany and Christmas

Today is thefirst of December and in December I like to do some Christmas related posts. I will kick this off with the country most often associated with Christmas.

This country is Germany, thanks to its iconic traditions like Christmas markets, the Advent calendar, and the decorated Christmas tree.

Christmas is celebrated by 81% of Germans, including many who aren’t religious.

Are you asking why Germany?

Germany celebrates Christmas with deep-rooted traditions that blend festive cheer, family gatherings, and unique customs like Advent calendars, Christmas markets, and St. Nicholas Day. It’s one of the most beloved holidays in the country, marked by rituals that have influenced celebrations worldwide.

The modern decorated Christmas tree originated in Germany in the 16th century, before spreading worldwide.

Also, there are the Christmas markets, Germany is famous for its enchanting Weihnachtsmärkte, with stalls selling ornaments, mulled wine (Glühwein), and festive foods. These markets are thought to have started in Germany and are now replicated globally.

We can also thank them for The Advent calendar and Advent wreath as both began in Germany, shaping how many cultures countdown to Christmas. Most will have heard of the calendar but maybe not the Advent wreaths these involvefour candles being lit on successive Sundays leading up to Christmas.

St. Nicholas Day is on December 5th, children polish their boots and leave them outside. By morning, they’re filled with nuts, candy, or small gifts from St. Nicholas.

In Bavaria, there is Krampus Night men dress as Krampus, a devilish figure who punishes naughty children, accompanying St. Nicholas.

On Christmas Eve families decorate the tree, exchange gifts, and share a festive meal. Potato salad with sausages is a surprisingly common traditional dish.

Both of their Christmas Days the 25 & 26 are public holidays. Families gather for larger meals, often featuring roast goose, carp, or duck.

Popular gifts include vouchers or money (44%), sweets (37%), toys (34%), clothing (32%), and books (30%).

Other countries strongly linked to Christmas include the United States (for popular culture and Santa Claus imagery) and the United Kingdom (for customs like Christmas crackers and carols). Which I will cover in another post.