Tuesday 30 November 2010

WEDNESDAY 1st DECEMBER 2010 06:25(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (1.12.1940)
Over Britain... Bristol is attacked by 120 planes during the night (December 1-2). Heavy damage to residential areas is caused by the bombing.
In the North Atlantic... The British armed merchant cruiser Forfar (16,400 t) is sunk by U-99 west of Ireland.
In the North Sea... The formerly Norwegian liner Oslofjord (18,700 t) and a British tanker are sunk off the Tyne.
In Italy... Rationing is introduced for flour, rice, spaghetti and macaroni.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
The day started with the hot water only tepid and the boiler making banging noises - fortunately I knew from experience what to do - pour boiling water over the condenser runoff pipe outside. In a prolonged cold snap, this pipe freezes solid and stops the boiler working - this seems a fundamental design flaw to me! Never mind, at least it's easy to keep on top of. Marketing and me time - I may get some time to work on my book.
Twitter Followers = 946 (up 5)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Rapid recovery from emotion is now becoming automatic, being permanently centred in the face of adversity proving a tougher challenge - you have to be very conscious all the time.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
For how much of your day are you paying attention to the moment?

TODAY'S ONELINER
I didn't say it was your fault, I said I was blaming you. : D

GOTH GIRL OF THE DAY
If the girl who works the checkout at Tesco's got bitten...
http://www.flickr.com/photos/alastair_padgett/5132855427/in/pool-11399776@N00

TRIVIA
Duelling is legal in Paraguay as long as both parties are registered blood donors.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Each moment has a blessing that I will appreciate!

Monday 29 November 2010

TUESDAY 30th NOVEMBER 2010 06:30(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (30.11.1940)
In the Balkans... The Greek advance from Macedonia continues. They win an important victory near Pogradec, in southeast Albania, capturing the town after a seven day battle.
In Tokyo... Japan officially recognizes the Nanking government led by President Wang Ching-wei.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
At home all day but nonetheless rather busy - all sorts of stuff from laundry to online marketing to paying the monthly bills. I will need to do some house tidying particularly as I am the only one who does any without needing to nagged!
Twitter Followers = 941 (up 5)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Feeling calm and in the flow of things and tending to recover quickly from outbursts of emotion. I am achieving my prime aim of being in the moment and noticing quickly when my mind is generating suffering by thought. A consolidation period.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Gratitude begets more things to be grateful for.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
When you were last really upset, what helped you to recover?

TODAY'S ONELINER
A good friend will bail you out of jail. A really close friend is the one who sits next to you in jail and says man we made assholes of ourselves last night! : D

GOTH GIRL OF THE DAY
Dare YOU tell this Goth to get her shoes of the sofa?
http://www.flickr.com/photos/misslollirot/5193305220/in/pool-11399776@N00

TRIVIA
A typical American eats the equivalent of 28 pigs in a lifetime

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Right now is what matters!

Sunday 28 November 2010

MONDAY 29th NOVEMBER 2010 08:30(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (29.11.1940)
Over Britain... During the night, there is a German bombing raid on London and Home Counties by about 330 aircraft.
From London... Free French leader, General de Gaulle, makes an address directed at the radio audience in France claiming to command forces numbering 35,000 trained troops and 1,000 air crew.


TODAY IN MY LIFE
On the face of it it's a busy day with three clients to see, but with heavy snow forecast, it's only 50/50 that they'll make it. All part of the passionate uncertainty of life. Even without clients, loads of blogging, writing and prep to do, as well as a three-month marketing campaign of the Bradford FIT FOR PURPOSE initiative. Watch this space!
Twitter Followers = 936 (no change)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Quite pleased at rapid recovery from "the negatives". I now need to move on to learning how to stop them arising at all in the first place, so a focus on gratitude and the positive today.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
A harsh word stirs up anger, a gentle word calms it.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
What will be the consequence of what you are doing?

TODAY'S ONELINER
One Tequila, two Tequila, three tequila, floor! : D

GOTH GIRL OF THE DAY
Pensive on the bench
http://www.flickr.com/photos/living-dead-geisha/5148479585/in/pool-11399776@N00

TRIVIA
Donald Duck's middle name is Fauntleroy.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
I take full responsibility but no self-condemnation.

SUNDAY 28th NOVEMBER 2010 09:15(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (28.11.1940)
Over Britain... British Spitfire fighters intercept a German Me109 formation off the Isle of Wight. Flight Lieutenant Dundas shoots down the German ace Major Wick (with 56 victories) and is himself killed seconds later. During the night, there is a German bombing raid on Liverpool by about 300 aircraft. A parachute mine explosion kills 164 and injures 96.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Ironing morning! Some "me time" and marketing in the afternoon, marital quality time in the evening.
Twitter Followers = 936 (no change)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
A combination of acceptance, submission and fatalism is keeping my mind in the right place.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
An unhappy goldfish needs no therapy, only the right pond.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Can you remember the last time you felt you really belonged? What made that environment just right?

TODAY'S ONELINER
Early to bed, early to rise, a long boring road to a dull demise. : D

GOTH GIRL OF THE DAY
Happy Goth
http://www.flickr.com/photos/lauren_sanderson/5133683422/in/pool-536840@N24

TRIVIA
Raw eggs really do ease hangovers - they contain the headache relieving chemical n-acetyl-cysteine, which is destroyed when heated.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Today I will pay close attention to my own thoughts

Friday 26 November 2010

SATURDAY 27th NOVEMBER 2010 07:45(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (27.11.1940)
In East Africa... The 10th Indian Brigade withdraws from Gallabat after losses to the supporting tanks and in the air. The Italians reoccupy the position.

In French West Africa... Colonel Leclerc leads a Free French force in landings north of Libreville. There is some fighting.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Usual commitments but no plans! Just going with the flow today.
Twitter Followers = 936 (up 1)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Woke up early happy after a great birthday - what was great about it was just getting on with everyone and a few small treats (taxi home, a Trappist Beer, a Southern Comfort chaser) - I could not have felt better after even the wildest party. Gratitude and appreciation is kinda self-fuelling. Continual gratitude seems to bring more things to be grateful for. This is an experiment still in progress, and I think it probably only works when accompanied with the disciplines of acceptance, submission and centering.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Love is the only thing that grows by giving it away.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
The last time you felt really good, what was it about it that made it so great?

TODAY'S ONELINER
I used to be really early for everything, but there was never anyone there to appreciate it! : D

GOTH GIRL OF THE DAY
This one is stunningly beautiful
http://www.flickr.com/photos/b4l33/3179656847/in/pool-25698784@N00/

TRIVIA
On average, right-handed people live 9 years longer than their left-handed counterparts.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Today I will keep my attention on my inner being.

Thursday 25 November 2010

FRIDAY 26th NOVEMBER 1962 06:50(GMT)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!

THIS DAY IN WW2 (26.11.1940)
In Occupied Poland... Work begins on the creation of a Jewish ghetto in Warsaw in which the Germans intend to herd the local Jewish population under dreadful living conditions. The Germans describe the move as a "health measure."
In the Mediterranean... Aircraft from the British carrier Eagle raid Tripoli. In another operation the carrier Illustrious attacks targets on Rhodes.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
After an explosive and mutually wounding encounter with family member, a day of quiet contemplation is in order.
Twitter Followers = 935 (up 1)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
I range from hero to villain in the perception of others. Since I am always the same person from my own viewpoint, I am led to conclude that life itself is a question of perception.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Most of us are doing our best with what we know and what we have,

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Would your enemies be friends in a different time and place?

TODAY'S ONELINER
Sex for love is free. Sex for money is much cheaper : D

GOTH GIRL OF THE DAY
My birthday treat
TRIVIA
Gothic Subculture as a social grouping originated in England in the early 1980's but Gothic literary style originated with the novel The Castle of Otranto by Horace Walpole, published in 1794
TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
If I'm not given a chance I'll create my own!

Wednesday 24 November 2010

THURSDAY 25th NOVEMBER 2010 06:25(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (25.11.1940)
In the Mediterranean... The SS Patria is blown up and sunk at the port of Haifa, in Palestine, by members of the Zionist terrorist organization Irgun Zvai Leumi to prevent the use of the ship to deport Palestinian Jews.
Over Britain... The prototype of the De Havilland Mosquito makes its maiden flight from Hatfield airfield.
Over Germany... RAF Bomber Command raids Kiel and Wilhelmshaven during the night.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Shopping, marketing, client session prep and book writingas well as "me time" and family time.
Twitter Followers = 934 (up 1)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Applying everything I have learned regarding intuition into my daily life. Feeling proundly peaceful at this moment.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Thought scattered is diffuse and powerless - thought focused on a sole objective is frighteningly powerful.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
In what is your hope?

TODAY'S ONELINER
A father is someone who has a picture of his children in his wallet where there used to be money. : D

GOTH GIRL OF THE DAY
It was Miss Scarlet in the graveyard with the Doc Martens
http://www.flickr.com/photos/lauren_sanderson/5133092325/in/pool-536840@N24

TRIVIA
The aroma given off by fresh coffee contains around 700 different chemicals.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
There is nothing wrong with me! I'm as valid as anyone else!

Tuesday 23 November 2010

WEDNESDAY 24th NOVEMBER 2010 07:00(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (24.11.1940)
In Berlin... The prime minister of the German sponsored state of Slovakia, Tuka, joins the Tripartite Pact powers in a meeting.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
I need to start marketing my Fit For Purpose-sponsored sessions for launching in December.
Twitter Followers = 933 (up 6)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
On something of a roll, at this moment - I intend to use it to strengthen my connection to the Divine, focusing particularly on gratitude.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Past and future exist only in the mind, but through the mind can be brought to life in the present.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Can you see things from where the other guy stands?

TODAY'S ONELINER
It's so simple to be wise. Just think of something stupid to say and then don't say it : D

GOTH GIRL OF THE DAY
Are these two plotting or just lamenting?
http://www.flickr.com/photos/alastair_padgett/5136484143/in/pool-11399776@N00

TRIVIA
The famous shower scene from the film Psycho took seven days to shoot to give Alfred Hitchcock enough choice of angles to edit together the most frightening effect.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Today I will expect nothing and be grateful for everything!

Monday 22 November 2010

TUESDAY 23rd NOVEMBER 2010 08:00(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (23.11.1940)
In Berlin... Marshal Antonescu, the leader of Romania, agrees to join the Axis powers. There are also talks on preparation for a German attack on Greece by the forces based in Romania. Germany is putting pressure on all the Balkan states since the Italian invasion of Greece in an attempt to ensure the stability of food and oil supplies.

In New York... The new British Ambassador to the United States, Lord Lothian, talks in New York of the possibility of Britain running out of ready money and securities to pay for arms and says that Britain will need financial help in 1941. In fact by April 1941 British reserves of gold and dollars will be as low as $12,000,000 -- a mere pittance when set against arms expenditure.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
It's Colleague Double Discount Day at ASDA - The day I go on the Christmas booze run! Two decorators coming later to look over the house and a double consultation in the late afternoon.

After a meeting with the Bradford Fit For Purpose team I was delighted to be informed that I can now offer 1-2-1 sessions as well as classes, so now I have to get out there and publicise it! Clients need only pay a fiver and Fit For Purpose will pay the rest! 50 sessions on offer, and offer closes in March.
Twitter Followers = 927 (up 4)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
I am pleased to be conscious for much of the time, it's now just a case of maintaining the concentration.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Every moment is some form of opportunity, every action, incuding no action, has a consequence.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Have you stopped to appreciate what you have recently?

TODAY'S ONELINER
A guy know's he's in love when he loses interest in his car for a couple of days : D

GOTH GIRL OF THE DAY
As Goth as Goth could be!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/lauren_sanderson/5133690980/in/pool-536840@N24/

TRIVIA
You're more likely to be a target for mosquitoes if you consume bananas.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Who will judge me? Only me!

Sunday 21 November 2010

MONDAY 22nd NOVEMBER 2010 08:10(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (22.11.1940)
In Albania... Greek forces capture Koritsa, a town in the southeast of Albania. They capture 2000 prisoners and some heavy equipment. Almost all the invading Italian forces have now been driven back to Albania.
In Brazil... The Willington Trade Mission arrives in Rio de Janeiro to promote British interests.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
A day of prolific writing and blogging!
Twitter Followers = 923 (up 1)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
To be truly conscious all the time I am having to work hard at the discipline of submission - not easy after a lifetime of resistance and resentment, but highly rewarding - my recovery from emotional triggers is now highly rapid, usually minutes.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
He who waits for great opportunities fails to realize that they are made of many small ones.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Are you clear what you are doing and why you are doing it?

TODAY'S ONELINER
A girl phoned me the other day and said "Come on over, there's nobody home." I went over. Nobody was home. : D

GOTH GIRL OF THE DAY
You get the feeling this one has no self-consciousness issues
http://www.flickr.com/photos/lauren_sanderson/5133692550/in/pool-536840@N24

TRIVIA
D'Artagnan was NOT one of the Three Musketeers, but only their friend. The actual three were Porthos, Athos, and Aramis

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
One day I may give up, but it is NOT this day!

SUNDAY 21st NOVEMBER 2010 10:00(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (21.11.1940)
In the United States... A report on German and Communist espionage and subversive activities is published. As in the similar investigations which have been made in Britain, the strength of these disruptive elements is wildly overestimated and accompanied with call for preventive measures.
In Sydney... The Australian government presents its war budget for the coming year. Twenty percent of the national income is to be devoted to war expenditure and it to be financed by considerable increases in taxation.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Not exactly a return to normal with daughter and all her worldly goods occupying downstairs, but with a brand new washing machine in place, at least no trip to the laundrette is necessary. Still all the ironing to do though, but I can do that in the morning, enjoy a beer before lunch have a post-lunch nap then have some "me time" in the afternoon.
Twitter Followers = 922 (no change)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Did particularly well at being truly conscious yesterday. A further breakthrough has occurred in that when I concentrate I can distinguish both thoughts and feelings from consciousness itself. However it is surprisingly hard work, like working a previously little-used muscle.

I have accepted that there are times when I will be "lost in the game" - this no longer bothers me because I know I will always inevitably return.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Even the deepest most sincerely-held and sacred ideas and beliefs will die if a better-fitting one is given attention for long enough.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Is the possibility of being wrong too painful to contemplate?

TODAY'S ONELINER
I was so poor growing up, if I wasn't born a boy, I'd have had nothing to play with. : D

GOTH GIRL OF THE DAY
It iss a great night for a bite comrade, indeed I have had quite a few of those recently!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/32058362@N04/5150029278/in/pool-536840@N24

TRIVIA
The longest name in the Bible is Mahershalalhashbaz (Isaiah 8:1). His mates probably called him "baz" for short : D

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
At any particular moment I know what to do in that moment.

Saturday 20 November 2010

SATURDAY 20th NOVEMBER 2010 08:30(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (20.11.1940)
In Germany... In Vienna, Hungarian Prime Minister Count Teleki and Foreign Minister Csaky agree to signing the Tripartite Pact.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Daughter now staying until Monday week! : / The door on her new flat apparently needs replacement. However apart from a minor but upsetting altercation (with BOTH children!) on Thursday night, we have got on OK. Will have to muddle through.

We were pleased to discover that the impending endowment will mature at £5000 greater than last year's estimate, making all planned projects and outings secure.
Twitter Followers = 922 (down 7)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Focusing on listening.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Your only real concern is your next move.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Are you using contempt for others to hide a deeper self-loathing?

TODAY'S ONELINER
Naps prevent old age, especially if taken while driving. : D

GOTH GIRL OF THE DAY
Fancy one, fancy another for free.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/melanienicol/4455761492/in/pool-gothicsoul

TRIVIA
A cluster of bananas is called a hand and consists of 10 to 20 bananas, which are known as fingers.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
This ordinary day is packed with opportunities for me to make a difference!

Thursday 18 November 2010

FRIDAY 19th NOVEMBER 2010 07:30(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (19.11.1940)
In the Balkans... The Greeks claim to have driven the Italians back behind the Kalamas River. There is heavy fighting near Koritsa.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Some prolonged contemplation!
Twitter Followers = 929 (down 4)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Been brutally reminded that I'm defenceless when "raw nerves" are trod on! However, at least I know what to do. Withdraw to "the cave", take time out, quiet the mind, contemplate.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Human hope, the belief that something better is round the corner, relentlessly wears down every evil.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Would you rather live with the uncertainty of your passion or the security of drudgery?

TODAY'S ONELINER
I stopped to think, then forgot to start again. : D

GOTH GIRL OF THE DAY
It's back!! All-new Goth Girlies to brighten (sorry darken) your day. This one would pretty up any graveyard http://www.flickr.com/photos/dhutchinsonphotography/5187757352/in/pool-11399776@N00

TRIVIA
The current tallest building in the world and also the tallest structure ever built is the BURJ KHALIFA (re-named after originally being called the BURJ DUBAI) in Dubai. It is 828m or 2,717 feet tall, an impressive 300m taller than the previous record-holder, the Taipei Tower in Taiwan. It has 160 floors, the world's fastest elevators (40mph or 18m/s) and on the 158th floor, the world's highest mosque.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
I count! I make a difference and will keep on making it!

Tuesday 16 November 2010

WEDNESDAY 17th NOVEMBER 2010 06:40(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (17.11.1940)
Over Germany... British bombers conduct a raid on the Gelsenkirchen oil plant, in the Ruhr, during the night.
Over Britain... There is a nighttime raid on Southampton by 150 German aircraft.
In London... Air Marshal Dowding is replaced at Fighter Command by Air Marshal Sholto Douglas. Dowding is sent to work for the Ministry of Aircraft Production in the section dealing with orders for American planes. A new RAF Command for Army Cooperation is created, to be led by Air Marshal Arthur Barratt.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
A busy day away from the keyboard with a client and then "other job" where I will practise my centering skills. In fact I won't get back to the keyboard until tomorrow afternoon with an important networking meeting then shopping in the morning. Heads down and get to it!
Twitter Followers = 933 (down 1)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Been in a very neutral/centred mood since my Thai massage birthday surpise yesterday. Today I am focusing on positive feeling, a technique I will be going into in my book next year, EMOTIONAL MANAGEMENT.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Measure your worth by the number of people you make happy.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Are you just existing or truly living?

TODAY'S ONELINER
I am NOT trying to show you contempt. On the contrary, I'm trying to hide it. : D

TODAY'S TUNE I LIKE
Here's a very obscure surf music song that later got turned into a hippie number by Vanity Fair. I couldn't find the latter, which I prefer, so here's the surf original by the Sunrays.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N6BM_Iu9-_g

TRIVIA
An ostrich's eye is bigger than its brain.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
I need only concern myself with what I can change

Monday 15 November 2010

TUESDAY 16th NOVEMBER 08:15(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (16.11.1940)
In Mexico... Three German cargo ships leave the port of Tampico but fail to evade the British blockade. The Phrygia is scuttled while the Idarwald and Rhein return to Tampico.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Daughter staying another week - her flat is still not ready. Clearly an exercise in tolerance is coming! She is giving my brand new washing machine some serious "hammer", washing her entire wardrobe - I haven't used it once yet! She needs another 24 hours to get the last of it through.

Though my birthday isn't until the 26th, missus has organised a surprise for me in Ilkley at 3pm where she has made an "appointment" for me to have some kind of experience. Normally she's useless at surprises but this one has me foxed! You got any ideas? In any case, she is off work today (school closed for Eid-Al-Adha) so from 10am we are having a "quality time" day.
Twitter Followers = 934 (up 3)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Spent much of yesterday in a low mood but I was pleased how I managed it - I seem to have raised some smiles and caused no harm.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Only you can do what you can do.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Is it time to take stock of your life and see if you're making the best of it?

TODAY'S ONELINER
A man in love is incomplete until he has married. Then he's finished. : D

TODAY'S TUNE I LIKE
My fave Rolling Stones song! Sing along with this version.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Kve_N8rmmQ

TRIVIA
The World's best-selling toy is RUBIK'S CUBE - 350 million have been sold worldwide. The current world record for single time on a standard 3×3×3 Rubik's Cube was set by Feliks Zemdegs, who had a best time of 6.77 seconds at the Melbourne Cube Day 2010.

It is always possible to solve a Rubik's Cube in a maximum of 20 moves.

There are now several widely known algorithms for solving the cube which means that the intellect is no longer required to solve the cube, simply memorisation of the algorithm.

Since the 3x3x3 cube is no longer very challenging to enthusiasts, Rubik's Cubes come in a variety of more challenging varieties, the most popular of which is the 5x5x5 cube.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
I do not drive my vision - my vision drives me! I am COMPELLED to follow it.

MONDAY 15th NOVEMBER 2010 11:20(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (15.11.1940)
In the Balkans... The Greek counteroffensives continue with especial success for the advance from western Macedonia in the area around Mount Morava.
In the Caribbean... US flying boats begin patrols from bases in Bermuda.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
We're all waiting to see if daughter's flat is ready so she can move in. All day at my Practice today, a meeting in the morning and a wellbeing class in the afternoon.
Twitter Followers = 931 (up 1)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Focusing on centering today. I have been surprised at how relatively scarce good teaching on this discipline is. It doesn't even get an entry in Wikipedia. Fortunately it's as simple as it is powerful so it will be at the heart of my focus today.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
He with a powerful inner focus runs off the mains while others run on batteries.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Is any ending really an ending?

TODAY'S ONELINER
I tried to make a comeback but I forgot I hadn't been anywhere : D

TODAY'S TUNE I LIKE
An r'n'b song that I actually like, and she looks fab in this vid
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CvBfHwUxHIk

TRIVIA
Pluto is no longer considered a proper planet, but is a "Dwarf Planet" - it doesn't have an orbit clear of other objects or orbit on the same plane as real planets. The largest dwarf planet is Ceres.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
I will focus all my power on this moment!

Saturday 13 November 2010

SUNDAY 14th NOVEMBER 2010 08:10(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (14.11.1940)
Over Britain... There is an especially heavy and effective German attack on Coventry involving 449 planes. Factories and historic buildings are badly damaged. Warning has been received during the afternoon of the day and the few precautions possible at this short notice have been taken by the relevant authorities.
In the Balkans... All the Greek forces have gone over to the offensive against the Italian invaders. Reinforcements have been brought from the troops facing Bulgaria. British aid to Greece begins to arrive. Over the course of the next two days, four cruisers ferry 3400 troops and airfield staff from Alexandria to Piraeus. By November 20th another 4000 have arrived.
In Singapore... The new British Commander in Chief for the Far East, Air Marshal Brooke-Popham arrives.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Expecting the new washing machine today, but it's too late to avoid a second "Laundry Day" - Morning at the laundrette, ironing in the afternoon. Fortunately I don't mind it - kinda meditative/therapeutic.
Twitter Followers = 930 (down 3)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
More of a sterner test yesterday - but pleased with my rapid recovery from distractions. Focusing now particularly on my intuition.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Happiness cannot be found, only grown, by giving it.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU?
Are the super-rich carefree and untroubled?

TODAY'S ONELINER
Death to extremists! : D

TODAY'S TUNE I LIKE
I LURVE this song! Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fHo5w2WGZWA

TRIVIA
Pumice is the only rock that can float.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
All I have to do is shine!

Friday 12 November 2010

SATURDAY 13th NOVEMBER 2010 07:30(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (13.11.1940)
Over Germany... British bombers conduct a night raid on Berlin.
Over Italy... RAF aircraft bomb the Italian naval base at Taranto.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Despite the opportunity of a lie-in, woke at 6.30 for a wee, fed cat and stayed up! Kinda stuck at the laptop with temporarily homeless daughter sleeping downstairs and everyone else asleep too. A good opportunity for online TV and general "me time".
Twitter Followers = 933 (down 4)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Settling in very well to being the Steward Of The Moment - the best technique I've found so far for letting go and embracing impermanence.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
You have everything necessary within you to bring whatever is necessary to this moment.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Is anywhere truly safe?

TODAY'S ONELINER
If you like cats too, write to me and we'll exchange recipes : D

TODAY'S UNFORTUNATE COCKUP
And now - a vid those those who like to see ladies falling over
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pCgHY5BfWO4

TRIVIA
The 1st personal computer, the Apple II, went on sale in 1977.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
I choose love, joy and freedom, open my heart and allow wonderful things to flow into my life!

Thursday 11 November 2010

FRIDAY 12th NOVEMBER 2010 07:25(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (12.11.1940)
From Berlin... The Soviet Commissar for Foreign Affairs, Molotov arrives in Berlin for discussions with the German leadership. Although talks are being conducted with the Soviets, German planning for the attack on the Soviet Union continues, as are the preparations for the attack, code named Marita, on Greece, and Felix, the advance through Spain to Gibraltar. Hitler issues Directive 18.
In Batavia... Agreements are concluded (today and tomorrow) between the Japanese and the principal oil companies whereby the Japanese are to receive 1,800,000 tons of oil annually from the Dutch East Indies.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
With housework impossible until daughter moves out (Monday earliest) focusing on marketing, self-development and service.
Twitter Followers = 933 (down 2)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Very happy in my growth in understanding - this is bringing me great peace of mind.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Your true worth lies not in your achievements but in the capacity to achieve more.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
What will be made better by you today?

TODAY'S ONELINER
There is no "I" in "Team", but there are four in "Platitude-Quoting Idiot". : D

TODAY'S UNFORTUNATE COCKUP
Hey mama, the power's gone off!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4hlJqz6-i_w&feature=aso

TRIVIA
Ginger has been clinically demonstrated to work twice as well as the standard prescribed drug Dramamine for fighting motion sickness, with no side effects.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Today someone will smile because of me!

Wednesday 10 November 2010

THURSDAY 11th NOVEMBER 2010 07:15(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (11.11.1940)
In the Mediterranean... The British Mediterranean Fleet attacks the Italian base at Taranto. During the night 21 Swordfish aircraft attack in two waves and gain three torpedo hits on the brand new battleship Littorio and one each on Caio Duilio and Conte di Cavour. Two other ships are damaged. The aircraft have come from the carrier Illustrious and only two are lost. This brilliant attack will certainly is subsequently studied by other navies, particularly the Japanese.
Over Britain... In a postscript to the main actions a force of Italian bombers, protected by biplane fighters, is sent to attack Harwich. They are intercepted and lose six planes for no loss to the RAF. The Italians make other attacks, mostly by night, on east-coast ports during the next nine weeks.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Providing temporary shelter for daughter and all her worldly goods while she is "between digs" for a few days. Shopping and marketing - housework impossible due to daughter's storage boxes everywhere! Everyone getting on so far.

Whilst so far tranquil indoors, looks like I will have to venture out shopping through a storm. Oh well never mind! I intend to make progress on my book and switch gas/electric supplier.
Twitter Followers = 935 (up 4)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Really pleased with progress - sailed through "accursed day job" but still have much to learn because I'm still cursing - however I'm now observing the cursing rather than living it - it's kinda amusing.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
You'll be amazed at how much you can give when you have nothing.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
What right now is the greatest thing to be thankful for?

TODAY'S ONELINER
Republicanism in a nutshell: You have two cows and a house. Your neighbour lives in a shack and has no cows. So? : D

TODAY'S TUNE I LIKE
A good 70's rock instrumental, big at the time, now long forgotten, revisited by me. Interesting tribute vid.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fPgS4gz9vVI

TRIVIA
Nearly 50% of all bank robberies take place on Friday.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Today I will relish my uniqueness!

Tuesday 9 November 2010

WEDNESDAY 10th NOVEMBER 2010 07:00(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (10.11.10)
In East Africa... British forces recapture Gallabat in the Sudan.
From Rome... The Italian Undersecretary for War, General Soddu, replaces General Prasca as the Commander in Chief in Albania.
Over Britain... London is bombed by 170 aircraft.
Over Germany... RAF conducts numerous raids despite stormy weather and icing. A total of 5 aircraft are lost.
In Romania... An earthquake causes damage from Bucharest to the Ploesti oilfields. An estimated 400 people are killed.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
A combination of domestic stuff and "me" time.
Twitter Followers = 931 (up 3)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
I have been reminded of the benefits of the Dharmic practices of Acceptance and Surrender, and been introduced to the Silent Prayer of Communion. I will apply them when doing the "accursed other job" and see if it makes it no longer "accursed".

TODAY'S THOUGHT
The world is a bottomless pit of need. Within you is a bottomless well of blessing.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Who will you help today?

TODAY'S ONELINER:
I swapped food for sex, and now I can't even get into my own pants : D

TODAY'S TUNE I LIKE
A rare foray into bubblegum surf music
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Og7LLZEAW4c

TRIVIA
The "O" when used as a prefix in Irish surnames, and "Mac" in Scottish surnames both mean "descendant of."

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
I am going to make someone else smile today!

Monday 8 November 2010

TUESDAY 9th NOVEMBER 2010 07:55(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (9.10.10)
In the North Atlantic... The liner Empress of Japan (26,000 tons) is attacked by a German Focke-Wulf Condor but manages to reach port.
In Britain... Neville Chamberlain, the former prime minister, dies at the age of 71.
In the Mediterranean... The Gibraltar based Force H attacked Cagliari with aircraft from Ark Royal.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Saw an inspiring video yesterday by Brendon Burchard that has motivated me to finally start writing my audiobook COMPLETE EMOTIONAL MANAGEMENT. I aim to have it complete by the end of the year ready to market in 2011. This morning I am working on it, I also have a client and general marketing. Home for lunch - a little "me time" and housework in the afternoon, and more "me time" in the evening - hooray!
Twitter Followers = 928 (up 1)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Having a really good spell at keeping in the moment - morale high, focus sharp.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Increasing knowledge makes you more frightened. Increasing wisdom makes you less frightened.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Is there anything in your day that offers a smile?

TODAY'S ONELINER:
They told me to follow my dream, so I ran around naked at work : D

TODAY'S TUNE I LIKE
The greatest instrumental ever written, trust me!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_bpS-cOBK6Q

TRIVIA
More people are killed annually by donkeys than die in air crashes.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Today I will have a good laugh at least twice!

MONDAY 8th NOVEMBER 2010 09:00(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (8.11.40)
In the Balkans... The Italian 3rd Alpini Division is trapped in the area of the Pindus Gorges by the Greek counterattacks. The Greeks take over 5000 prisoners by November 10th.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
All day at my Practice. A combination of marketing and learning, contemplation and revtalizing strategy.
Twitter Followers = 927 (up 4)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Been thinking a lot recently about thinking itself, particularly how to develop intuitive thinking. Working my "focus muscle" hard to keep "in the moment".

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Advice is great but the decisions about you should be made by you.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Are you doing what you want, what you should, or neither?

TODAY'S ONELINER:
Never put two Goldfish in a tank. They will argue over who drives and who fires the gun : D

TODAY'S TUNE I LIKE
Another r 'n' b star does rock
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qH-rPt1ftSo

TRIVIA
The Kinsey Institute records the longest erect penis it ever measured as an impressive 13 inches, and the smallest at an embarrassing 1.75 inches.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
I have everything I need and will encounter everything necessary to make this day a success.

Sunday 7 November 2010

SUNDAY 7th NOVEMBER 2010 08:05(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (7.11.40)
In East Africa... The 10th Indian Brigade withdraws from Gallabat after losses to the supporting tanks and in the air. The Italians reoccupy the position.
In French West Africa... Colonel Leclerc leads a Free French force in landings north of Libreville. There is some fighting.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Mega-laundry day. Being between washing machines, this means a trip to the laundrette and the whole week's washing done at once. I actually don't mind so much, it's an opportunity for contemplation, reading and watching PACIFIC on DVD
Twitter Followers = 923 (up 1)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Coming to terms with the fact that mood is managed not eliminated, but pleased that mood management is coming along really well. I could actually get to like this game! I have been reminded of the importance of gratitude.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
A triumph at the end makes up for a multitude of defeats

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Are guiding your thoughts, or are your thoughts guiding you?

TODAY'S ONELINER:
One goldfish says to the other, "If there's no God, who changes our water every week?" : D

TODAY'S TUNE I LIKE
A rare but enjoyable foray into rock for this r 'n' b star
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=up7pvPqNkuU&ob=av3e

TRIVIA
The saying "In the kingdom of the blind the one eyed man is king" orginates from a historical incident when Byzantine emperor Basil II(976-1025CE) defeated a Bulgarian army at the Battle of Kleidion in 1014. Basil was said to have captured 15,000 prisoners and blinded 99 of every 100 men, leaving 150 one-eyed men to lead the rest back to the Bulgarian king.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
My life is a joy filled with love, fun and friendship all I need do is stop all criticism, forgive, relax and be open.

Saturday 6 November 2010

SATURDAY 6th NOVEMBER 2010 09:00(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (6.11.40)
In the Balkans... The Italian advance in along the coast reaches Igoumenitsa.

In East Africa... General Slim's 10th Indian Brigade attacks and captures Gallabat from the Italians.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Family time and contemplation
Twitter Followers = 922 (down 1)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Concentration is like exercise with all the benefits and difficulties. What keeps you going is the knowledge that it's doing exactly what I want - clearing my perception.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
The less wants you have, the stronger the power behind them.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
You've been told the Earth is round. Why do you believe this when every sense tells you that it is flat? Remember at one time, to believe otherwise was a sin. What influences YOUR beliefs?

TODAY'S ONELINER:
668 is the neighbour of the beast : D

TODAY'S TUNE I LIKE
A bit of epic glam AOR to start my Saturday

TRIVIA
Devon is the only county in the United Kingdom that has two separate coasts .

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
I need only put one foot in front of the other

Thursday 4 November 2010

FRIDAY 5th NOVEMBER 2010 06:10(BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (5.11.40)
In the North Atlantic... The German pocket battleship Admiral Scheer finds the British convoy HX-84 of 37 ships while on a sortie into the Atlantic. As this point in its route the convoy is only escorted by a single armed merchant cruiser, the Jervis Bay, which, although totally outgunned, engages the Admiral Scheer to gain time for the convoy to scatter. Jervis Bay is, of course, sunk but only five ships of the convoy fail to get away. The British suspend convoy sailings until November 17th but their pursuit fails to find the German ship which has moved toward the south Atlantic.

In the United States... President Roosevelt is elected for an unprecedented third term. His majority in the popular vote is 10 percent -- 27,000,000 to Willkie's 22,000,000. In the Congressional elections the Democrats lose four Senate seats and gain eight seats in the House. They retain their majority in both chambers.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
All-domestic
Twitter Followers = 923 (down 4)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Lots of fatalist contemplation going on - my main focus is to be in the moment as the observer watching/experiencing all the doing going on.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Sunshine is always out there, regardless of what you see.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
What if you were everything you were looking for? What would be the implications of that?

TODAY'S ONELINER:
The next annual time-traveller's convention will take place 400 years ago : D

TODAY'S TUNE I LIKE
An epic metal number better known in N.America but an absolute headbanging belter http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s6BTTJo1KmM

TRIVIA
A recent study indicates when men crave food, they tend to crave fat and salt. When women crave food, they tend to desire chocolate.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Be here now!

THURSDAY 4th NOVEMBER 2010 12:45(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (4.11.40)
In the Balkans... The first Greek counterattacks begin in the northern sector of the front. The Italian offensive, despite its numerical strength, is already in difficulties.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Networking and other business follow-up, housework and family time
Twitter Followers = 927 (up 3)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Quite pleased with my own rapid recovery from low mood - I now have a very determinist/fatalist attitude which is helping me relax into the moment.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Never make an important decision when your body's impatient for lunch!

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
What do you really mean by "I" - what actually is this "I" that is conscious of your experience?

TODAY'S ONELINER:
I just can't get enough minimalism : D

TODAY'S TUNE I LIKE
A great track by Free that often gts missed in the shadow of ALL RIGHT NOW
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Vv_WbNH3z4

TRIVIA
The honeybee kills more people worldwide than all the poisonous snakes combined.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
All I need do is put one foot in front of the other!

Tuesday 2 November 2010

WEDNESDAY 3rd NOVEMBER 2010 06:40(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (3.11.40)
Over Greece... Italian aircraft bomb Salonika again.
Over Britain... For the first night since September 7th that there is no raid on London. There have been 57 consecutive nights of attack. An average of 165 planes has attacked each night dropping 13,600 tons of high explosive and many incendiaries.
In the North Atlantic... Two British armed merchant cruisers, the Laurentic and the Patroclus are sunk by Kretschmer's U-99.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
All-domestic today

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
My enhanced sense of awareness doesn't protect me from experiencing low mood - Learning to observe it from a distance.
Twitter Followers = 924 (up 1)

TODAY'S THOUGHT
The determined are not put off their objective by disappointment. The completely determined are not put off by anything.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
What right now at this moment is the best thing to do?

TODAY'S ONELINER:
A journey of a thousand miles begins with a cash advance. : D

TODAY'S TUNE I LIKE
I always seem to turn to this number when in a low mood. Here's a rare TV recording of it being performed live. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OVJwDgSEijc

TRIVIA
Ghosts appear in 4 Shakespearian plays; Julius Caesar, Richard III, Hamlet and Macbeth

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
The only thing that can stop me is me!

TUESDAY 2nd NOVEMBER 2010 08:15(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (2.11.40)
In the North Atlantic... German submarine U-31 is attacked and sunk by the British destroyer HMS Antelope. This is the second sinking of this submarine (see March 11, 1940).
In Greece... Italian aircraft bomb Salonika.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
A Networking appointment in the morning, some organisational loose ends to tie up, home for lunch and domestic stuff thereafter.
Twitter Followers = 923 (up 4)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
This morning I got it - I really did, I finally understood - my mind slotted into the right place. I'll be alright now. I've arrived! The end of seeking has come.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
It's good to know what you're doing, better to know why.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Will you be happy when you get this thing you want? Are you sure?

TODAY'S ONELINER
Marriage is not a word. It's a sentence : D

TODAY'S TUNE I LIKE
A little sunny Jamaican reggae to brighten this dark, wet & windy English Autumn day
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kIjkW6iyXNo

TRIVIA
Seven suicides are recorded in the Bible: Abimelech by the sword (assisted) in Judges, Samson by crushing in Judges, Saul by the sword in 1 Samuel, Saul's armour-bearer by the sword in 1Samuel, Ahithophel by hanging in 2 Samuel, Zimri by fire in 1 Kings, and Judas Iscariot by hanging in Matthew. However, in Acts, Judas dies by accident. In the non-canonical Gospel of Judas, he is stoned to death, and according to St.Paipas of Hierapolis (68-155AD) he was run over by a chariot.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Right now is an opportunity to .....

Monday 1 November 2010

MONDAY 1st NOVEMBER 2010 08:40(GMT)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (1.11.40)
In the Balkans... The Italian advance reaches the Kalamas River in the Epirus district. A small British bomber unit is sent to help the Greeks. This force is increased at Churchill's order during the next few days. About half the RAF strength from Egypt is sent. The British government believes that it is vital to fulfill the guarantees given to Greece to bolster neutral opinion, especially in the Balkans and Turkey.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Not a great start from an organisational standpoint, but I was pleased with my rapid recovery from my initial frustration. I was subsequently cheered by an all-time record hit count of 6888 on my website in October.
A morning of throwing dead wood out of the basket before a consultation and seminar in the afternoon.
Twitter Followers = 919 (up 5)

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
It's all about focus! Keeping my attention in the right place.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
If you're going to play, play it to win.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Does hope drive you onward?

TODAY'S ONELINER
Can we ever really know when our philosophy assignment is due? : D

TODAY'S TUNE I LIKE
A rallying cry to the determined
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cLTYMN8iD00

TRIVIA
Banana plants are the largest plants on earth without a woody stem. They are actually giant herbs of the same family as lilies, orchids and palms.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
I WON'T BACK DOWN!!