It's New Years Eve

Yep it's new Years Eve and I'm sitting here at my iMac playing a game and maybe later I will watch a movie depending if I get in the movie mood. It be a quite new year's eve again for me, surfing the net, chatting to my online friends and I'll be watching Sound of Music tonight.

I got some chip n dip and some drinks to keep me going, hopefully I can stay up till the New Year! I will also give my family a ring to wish them a happy New Year and texting some friends too, might have to do that early as the Vodafone network will get overloaded.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!..See you'all in the New Year XD

I Enjoyed Christmas Day

Christmas day already and almost over but it was a very nice day with Mum and Dad. The weather was warm, sunny at times and a little overcast at times, just right for a day out.

We headed off to Cornwall Park for a Christmas picnic lunch and a walk. We arrived to find the park was 'packed' *looked like half of town was here* and it was hard to find a car park but we found one after 5 minutes of driving around the park. Mum found a nice area for us to have our picnic and we set up our portable table and chairs and got the food out as we needed it. We had some wine with our yummy lunch which was very nice. We had some fruit as well then went for a walk.

We came back to my place for late coffee, cold drinks and heated fruit mince pies and to open up some pressies. We all got some neat presents too. Mum and Dad later left to go home. I did some texting to thank people and also wish them Merry Christmas. It's been a great Christmas and relaxing too.

Early Christmas Dinner with Family

My brother Ben and his wife Ang are going to Australia in the weekend for there Christmas break so we all had a Christmas dinner and exchanged gifts last night. Ben picked me up and took me to Mum and Dad's place for the dinner. Mum, Dad and Ang were busy in the kitchen when we arrived.

The table was decorated with a white table cloth and Ang had made up three simple but nice flower arrangements for the table. It was a silver and white theme with crackers, wine glasses, white plates and a small silver wrapped gift by our plates.


We pulled our crackers and wore our hats and went over the jokes from the crackers. Dinner was very nice with roast pork, roast vegs, roast potatoes, gravey and a green salad. I love my roast meals and it was yummy. We then had a variety of fruit and xmas pudding which I had a little peice of as I was pretty full.

We all had a good laugh and talked then exchanged gifts and I got a JB Hi Fi voucher which was kewl. I gave Ben and Ang some wines. It was a fun night. Below is the Christmas Card I got from Ben and Ang

Bits n Peices

I haven't done much over the past week, just relaxing, mucking about on my iMac and surfing the net. I finished my xmas shopping about two weeks ago which was good, means I can try and save some money and pay bills that seem to come at the end of the year.

I took some photos of Casey the other day sitting out on the grass checking out for some birdies hehe. Below is a photo and a small video or her..enjoy
This is where Casey waits for me to come home XD


Casey relaxing on the lawn (video)


Yesterday I went out to the mall with my friend and we window shopped mainly but did get some vegs. We had some pizza for lunch which was yummy. The shops in the mall were being packed full of stuff to sell making it uninviting for me to enter (and the rest of the wheelchair users) as it's easy to knock things over or not even get inside the shops. This is the time I really don't like going to the malls as I can't get in many shops. Richie and I exchanged Christmas gifts too and omg he has given me a 'huge parcel' and I have no idea what it could be...*wonders what's inside*

Job Work in Process - RE RE Email to Support Person

I sent them an email today regarding the letter from Poly-Emp I got yesterday. I have edited it for here too.

I hope S and you have not misunderstood my letter. Having finally sorted out a desk with R (the OT), the workplace Employer's and OfficeMax that would enable me to work there, I was upset that one of the employers raised more questions about the desk size. I was sorting this out with him (employer), and I simply said in my letter to S that "it would be easier for me now to finish the purchase and delivery of the desk and set the starting date on my own....". It is just easier for me to solve the final problem directly with the employer and he has suggested R (OT) phone him when she gets back to work after Christmas to help with this.

I did not say that that I was declining any future offer of support from Poly-Emp. I actually thanked S twice in my letter for her help and said I would contact her when I started the job. I'm sorry that I seem to have upset you but all the hassles with WorkBridge etc have been very frustrating.

Thanks again to you both and Merry Christmas.


I then got a 'fast' reply from the Manager saying--> Nope we are certainly not upset and support you sorting things out on your own. I just wanted some clarity around the fact that we will still be in contact with the employer's and still involved with the arrangements.


Gahhhh, Well if they are supporting me to sort things out on my own THEN why can't they respect what I asked them in doing which was to back-off and let me orgainse the desk concerns and delivery!!! There is nothing S can do at this point as it's simply solving the desk issue then getting it delivered.

Job Work in Process - RE Email to Support Person

I just got a letter from Poly-Emp today from there Manager and I wasn't impressed with it. S and the Manager seem to have misunderstood my email I sent to S on 27 November.

Just saying that S has been keeping her up to date with the process of negotiating an offer of employment for me. That she understands when I was offered the position I chose to negotiate everything for myself regarding setting up my requirements for my employment and have endeavoured to keep everyone in the loop. (This is not 100% correct)

The Manager then explained that--> This has been un unusual way of working for us and not one we often find ourselfs in as as our sole purpose is to offer a seamless supported Employment Service to people with Interllectual disabilities. (This they told me at the first appoitment we had and they accepted at the time that I was going to be a challenge for them and was happy to help me)

The Manager continues with--> Wheras it is completely your decision to decline any future offer of support from Poly-Emp, we believe that we have a duty to the potential employer to continue to see through our negotiation of the position. We will continue to be in contact with the employer untill the contract with yourself is signed and a start date has been arranged. (First of all I never declined any future support from them and second I have asked them nicely to back-off while I coordinate the desk delivery once I've sorted out the employers concerns with the desk length as at this stage S has left everything else for me to do)

I was really annoyed with this letter as they haven't got some of there facts right and it's over the top and defensive. I will reply by email to her tomorrow.

Job Work in Process - One Employer Not Happy With Desk Length

I rang one of my Employer's to arrange a date for the desk to be delivered, sometime over the xmas holidays to find out he is not happy with the desk length. G was saying that the desk length wouldn't be long enough and he's not happy about adding another table to add extra length as it not really suitable for them as they work more hours than I will be doing. I suggested the spare shorter desk they have but G said no as he doesn't like that desk and it would be shorter height wise (they could raise the height with blocks to fix that!). Well dam if he wants the extra length then he shouldn't be complaining about how the desk looks, it be covered anyhow with paper and work stuff.

I explained that most standard corner desks will not be the same length as there current 'custom made desk' and the one I'm getting is also height adjustable to suit all of our height needs. G wants to talk it over with R (OT) and the other employer in the office and I said that probably won't work as WorkBridge has to pay for her to go out again so I said I will see if I can get R to ring him. I said that the whole point of the workstation assessment was to get a suitable workstation for me to work off and that would suit all staff as well. M the other employer was there during the whole workplace assessment and was fairly happy with it all but I think G is the main one that gives the yes or no. I bet that they only use the end length of the desk to store stuff on anyhow.

There current L-Shape 'custom made desk' measurements are below
270cm (2700mm) length/width - main working part
190cm (1900mm) length/width
70cm (700mm) depth

Height Adjustable Desk Ordered for me is
160cm (1600mm) length/width - main working part
160cm (1600mm) length/width
70cm (700mm) depth

DIFFERENCE (in length/width - main working part) = 110cm (1100mm) 1.1metre

R (OT) said at the assessment it's either a height adjustable corner desk or nothing as it's such a small office and we don't have anymore solutions.

So much for things turning around from being a nitemare to going smoothly.

Last Sports Practice for the Year

It was a beautiful day for our last sports practice today, the sun was out and it was fairly warm inside the gym today as well as outside. Everyone arrived on time so we were able to start quicker than we usually do which was great. We played hockey and it was fun as we were able to have 4 vs 4 with positions and two parents were the goalies. My team changed positions a few times during the game as requested by my team players. Our team won 8-0. Mum took some photos of some of us playing.

After playing hockey we all went outside and had some afternoon tea in the sun. Some of the younger players did some racing around. I talked to my friend's and enjoyed some strawberry's dipped into chocolate sauce..yummy. The coach and one of the player's (acting as Santa) gave out the gifties to all the player's including his gift haha that was funny!!

We had a Team 2008 photo taken too...

Job Work in Process - Headset Arrived

I just got my headset which arrived via Courier. I unpacked it out of it's box and it's nice and lightweight. I will have to try it out on my phone sometime.

I will be using this at work so I can have both hands free if I need to take a message or use the computer.

Job Work in Process - Desk Ready for Delivery

I got a call this morning to say my desk is ready for delivery and can they arrange a time today. I said not today and that it be most likely in January sometime and I have to orgainse a date and time with my employers. I got his details and will contact him when I know.

Job Work in Process - Headset Update

I got a letter from Workbridge yesterday about where I'll get my headset from, it will now be provided from Orb Communications in the South Island. I had to contact them at 'my cost' (they didn't have a 0800# to ring) and left a message with them. I wasn't going to ring them again so I googled them and found that the particular shop I'm getting the headset from dosen't have an 0800 either so I emailed them hahah.

I finally got a call today regarding the headset and he knew I was a Workbridge client as he had talked to T last week about it. He asked me to email him my mail addy and it be couriered to me by the end of the week.

Relaxing and Enjoying the Sun

Woah it's the 1 December today so for anyone reading this, I'm first in... A Pinch, A Punch, For the First of the Month! muahaha

I've been out at the mall doing some shopping, spending $$$$ for a change which I don't normally do as I window shop more. I then met up with a friend and had some lunch.

Otherwise I've been enjoying the sunshine at home and mucking about online. I changed my desktop wallpaper too to something a bit brighter and has purple in it, as I love that colour.

Job Work in Process - Email to Support Person

I decided to sent an email off to my Support Person S, to thank her for her help so far and to also let her know I won't need anymore help at the moment. I just need to discuss the desk concerns with my employer's and then coordinate the delivery of the desk. Below is my email.


I would like to thank you very much for your help in finding a job and supporting me through the interview part in late July. As you know it has been a bit of a nightmare since then and you have been involved with some of the early contacts with WINZ and others.

I have spent hours in the last 12 weeks phoning and e-mailing WINZ and Workbridge about funding, getting quotes, contacting DRC, NMA, MDN and CCS to find an OT and organising OT appointments, contacting OfficeMax, DRC, Telecom re equipment, and keeping the two Co-Managers up to date. It's ridiculous that all these government bodies can't provide one person to solve someone's problems in a few weeks. At this rate it will take nearly eight months from finding the job to actually starting!

It would be easier for me now to finish the purchase and delivery of the desk and set the starting date on my own and I will deal directly with the employer's until that is all done.

I hope you would be happy to leave me to it now and I will contact you again after I have actually started in the job and I can tell you how it is getting on.

Job Work in Process - Frustrating Day

Yesterday I was down at the mall so I went into the Telecom shop to ask about the headset to find they don't supply those headsets. I contacted T at Workbridge and informed her that I tried the Telecom Shop and nothing happened, she also had done some phoning around and also contacted the Telecom shop I visited and found out the same thing, they don't supply those headsets. T said that she will arrange to get them from another store like DickSmith or Noel Leemings and to wait for another letter to come in the mail.

TODAY has been quite stressfull thanks to S my Support Worker. S rang this morning to say she has heard that Workbridge have approved the equipment I need to work and I said yes they have, how did you find out? and that I was going to email you an update by the end of the week. S said she went to the workplace this morning to catch up and found out that way (I had told S that I would keep her up to date yet she still goes ahead and trys to get info via another way). S then said that the employer's wanted the information about the desk length to see how it will fit and some other stuff. S also said I need to keep them up to date, well that kinda offened me as I have right through this whole process.

I then rang one of the employer's and talked to them about how the equipment is being delivered and payed etc and gave her the desk measurements. She checked the measurements while I was on the phone and said that the desk will be shorter in length than there current desk, so I suggested that they put in one of there smaller desks there to make the length longer. She said she will sort something out with the other employer. Basically all this was discussed months ago at the time of the OT assessment and even before that. I asked about my start date and we all agree that it be best to start in the new year. So things were all sorted and everyone happy.

S rang me up this afternoon again to say that the other employer wasn't happy about the desk as it was too short and I told S that the desk won't be the same length excatly as there current desk as it was purpose made for them, the desk I'm getting has certian length. S then wanted to arrange a meeting with employers and me and I said no, its not needed and anything can be solved or discussed over the phone. I told S I will contact the other employer and sicuss his concerns re desk. I was really frustrated at this time as S was basically getting in the way!! and creating the process to be longer. I had everything all planned and orgainsed and everyone was happy, we just had to wait for things to arrive. I was communicating directly with the employer's too.

Job Work in Process - Reacher Arrived, Desk Ordered

This morning I heard a knock at my door at around 7.45am and I was in bed still sleeping. After I'd got ready for the day I went and opened the door to find a package, I opened it to find the Reacher/pick up stick DRC has provided me. The courier was meant to drop this off after 10am which was clearly written on the package in black, and I also had to give my signature so DRC could be payed via Workbridge.

I ray up the Courier company and told them the situation who were not impressed with the driver, and got him to return so I could sign the deliver slip.

I tested out the Reacher and it was pretty good and I was able to pick up paper etc from the floor. One item down, two to go.

Desk - I also got the three colour samples from OfficeMax and decided what colour I wanted for my desk, I choose NZ Tawa which is a light brown. The desk has been ordered and will be ready in 10 working days. Then I can arrange dates for delivery with my employer's and OfficeMax XD

Job Work in Process - Organising Equipment to be Delivered

HAHA my next steps... I wasn't going to contact the three company's where my equipment is coming from as they all would of just got their letter today. I have got a copy of each letter stating what equipment they are providing me and the detailed cost info and that I have to sign the delivery slip for each item.

Disability Resource Centre (DRC) - They rang me this morning telling me that they had to ring T at Workbridge to get my contact details and between the two of us we can arrange for delivery of the Reacher. We talked about the reacher and the one I currently use as they are different, so I'm sticking to the one that has been picked for me at extra cost LOL. DRC will ring me once they have arranged a Courier so I can be home for them.

Telecom Retail Holdings Ltd - I looked them up and couldn't find their contact details and again I only had their postal address on the letter. I rang T for the contact details and she gave me a number which didn't go far. T said to try getting the headset from any Telecom Shop and show them the letter and see if they can do it that way. I also said to T that I will wait till Friday to hear from them, as Telecom will have to contact T to get my details.

OfficeMax - I looked them up and couldn't find the right OfficeMax that went with the postal address on the letter I had so I ended up ringing there 0800# and the lady told me to contact Workbridge as they needed an account#. Rang T at Workbridge and told her the situation and she said to ring the number again and give them the REF#, did that and they still didn't know about the order from Workbridge but will pass the info onto their Manager who might know. Later I got a call from OfficeMax saying they will order the desk and get back to me about delivery. I did tell them that it can't be delivered till Dec 8th onwards and they were good with that. I then got another call about what color I want the desk to be.

I did contact my Employer who said they are too busy at the moment to have a desk delievered till December 8th onwards and that he is on his own as the other Co-Manager is away, they also are going on a course. He was happy to hear things are coming along.

Basically Workbridge sent me a letter saying this is what I'm getting with cost details and from where, with no company contact details. They send the same letter to the company and again without my contact details, meaning the company has to call Workbridge to get my details and I have to contact Workbridge to get there details. That is dumb if you ask me.

Job Work in Process - Workbridge Approved Equipment FINALLY!!

I just got a call from T at Workbridge letting me know that everything is approved!! and I should receive a letter in the weekend from her about it all. The desk is coming from OfficeMax who have been paid to deliver and setup the desk for me at my work place, the Reacher is coming from DRC a more expensive one for some reason but hey that's all good and the Headset is coming from Telecom. The letter will give me a lot more information.
Actiforce Mechanical Height Adjustable Desk

Long Handled Reacher

M214c Plantronics Headset

Once I get the letter I can contact OfficeMax about delievery time etc as I need to let my Work know so they can re-arrange there office. Will update on this more later next week.

My New Shoes Arrived.. Whaoooo

Yep my awesome new shoes arrived today and they look nice and warm, can't wait to get my feet into them tomorrow. The inside is lambs wool, the warmest wool they had and should help with my circulation. I choose the sole and how I wanted the shoes designed too.

I need to see if I can get them off without too much trouble, getting them on is ok. I don't think I will have any problems though.

Early next year I will go back to order some more shoes I can wear during the warmer seasons, but this time I'll have no seams on the shoes, just all leather and black.

Job Work in Process - Workbridge Update

I contacted T at Workbridge this afternoon asking her for any updates about the equipment application and she said that she is awaiting to get another quote for the adjustable desk with lever as they need two quotes. T said I should get a letter at the end of next week letting me know what they have approved and declined and what to do next. If desk is approved then I will be given contact details about where it's coming from and the desk people will also get my details, so we can arrange delivery time and I'd need to contact the Co-Managers so they can remove the desk from there office and get ready for the arrival of a new one.

I just looked at R (OT) email and she said she had sent Workbridge two quotes on a desk so humm wonder why T has to get more.

So maybe I'll start work at the beginning of December but it be up to the employer

Been busy in iTunes

Over the last two day's I've been busy in iTunes, adding album images to all my songs and adding some song information too. I view my songs in Coverflow and it looks good having album pictures now. I finally finished this project around 4pm today.

My coverflow looks like this

From now on when I add new songs, I will add the album image and song info as I go.

New Zealand Election '08 - Update

Well Phil Goff is now the Labour Party leader, taking Helen Clark's place. Phil has more experience than John Key too.

I met Phil Goff years ago when I opened up a Kitchen at Grammar School which was used by disabled students, I still have the paper cutting.

Job Work in Process - Rang Workbridge

I contacted T from Workbridge asking her if she got the report from R (OT) and she said she has and she will talk to her Manager over the next couple of days about whether Workbridge will fund it all or WINZ will need to fund some if it!! This annoyed me a bit as Workbridge should fund it all, knowing that this is now an urgent case and asking WINZ to fund some of it will make the process even longer. T will contact me near the end of the week.

I asked T once it's been funded, what would the time frame there abouts.. would it be to get the equipment I need?? and she didn't know, she couldn't even give me a timeframe.

T at Workbridge doesn't seem to know anything and acts like a brick wall towards me, well that's how I feel about her after talking to her. She just doesn't seem to give a shit! let alone check on me on how I'm getting on.

I then rang the main number at Workbridge and said I'm ringing up for some info for a friend and asked her the same question I asked T, what's the time frame that it takes to get equipment once funding is approved and she couldn't or wouldn't give me an answer, so I asked her again with an example and she said it depends on where the equipment is coming from and if there is any in stock or they have to order the equipment, so I said 1-2 weeks then and she said I can't tell you that. I asked her to put me through to the Manager so I can ask him but he wasn't there. I don't understand why Workbridge can't give a client a simple time frame on getting equipment so they can go ahead and make other arrangements re job.

New Zealand Election '08

It was voting day on Saturday for the Election of the two party's National - John Key and Labour - Helen Clark, we also had to vote for someone in our electorate. The voting ended at 7pm and counting started and the result came in around midnight Sunday morning. TV One and TV 3 both had a special program called Decision 08 on all night talking about it and keeping us all updated with the party vote counts % and the Electorate votes.

National - John Key took the win by quite a bit which shows that some New Zealander's wanted a change in leadership of the government for the next three years. It be interesting to see how John Key does over time as he's just started in this area. Helen Clark congratulated John and then later in her speach said she is now resigning from the Labour Party which none of her staff knew till the point she said it. Maybe Phil Goff will take her place, we shall see.

At Friends Place, BBQ and Fireworks

I went to my friend's place last night for a BBQ, some drinks and to watch some fireworks. It was a fun and awesome nite and a late one at that too. We sat outside and talked while some cooked the meat on the BBQ. The kids that were there played on my friend's xbox and outside.

One of the guys had a really small remote controlled helicopter (length of a coke cola can) and flew it around and it was funny watching that. It flew past our heads and hitting into things. The kids ended up having a turn later and the helicopter got tangled up in one of the lady's hair haha that was so frreakin funny. I said get some scissors but that was not going to happen, they untangled the blades in the end.

Click HERE TO VIEW INFO
We ate around 8.30pm and I was pretty hungry by then. I had a little chicken, some steak and a chop, potato salad and a salad and it was all yummy. I love food that's cooked on a BBQ. I had some bubbles wine too.

Around 9pm we let off some fireworks and the kids loved it. They ran around with sparklers as well as watching the fireworks. One spinner went spinning near me and I took off in a hurry hehe. We ended up letting off four boxes of fireworks in one night. I gave some of the younger kids a ride on the back of my chair too, they stood on the back and I wheeled up and down the driveway, they loved it as it was nice and fast. I didn't get home till midnight after getting a taxi.

Job Work in Process - Workplace Assessment Report Sent

I got an email this afternoon from R the OT letting me know that she has completed and sent the workplace assessment report off to Workbridge who should get it next week. It took R two weeks to complete it due to getting the appropriate information she needed.

R suggested I contact Workbridge on Monday to see how long it take for the funding to get approved.

Orthotic's - Shoe Fitting

This afternoon I went to Orthotics for my shoe fitting appt with my Dad. The lady I see is really nice and she knows what she is doing. She put the new shoes on my feet to see how they fitted and they felt good on.

She adjusted the left shoe a little which took about 5 minutes and then put it on my foot again. I decided on what laces I wanted, what sole I wanted added to the shoes.

I should get my completed new shoes in two weeks time. Then I can see how well I can get them off in the evening, getting them on isn't a big problem.

Another Cold

I have another cold, more of a head cold I think. Last night my throat felt funny and I didn't sleep too well as I was hot and abit stuffed up. Today I have been sneezing, have a runny nose and a funny throat still.

I don't usually get a lot of colds but it maybe the change of weather at the moment. Today the weather has been windy, on and off rain all day with the sun shining between the rain falls.

2008 End of Year Tour

It's now time for the end of year tour for the New Zealand rugby team, go NZ. New Zealand have a game tonight that I'll be watching on Prime tonight and hope to see us win!! Will update this after each game.

01 Nov | New Zealand vs Australia | Hong Kong | Result: 19-14
09 Nov | New Zealand v Scotland |Edinburgh | Result: 32-6
16 Nov | New Zealand v Ireland | Dublin | Result: 22-3
19 Nov | New Zealand v Munster | Limerick | Result: 18-16
23 Nov | New Zealand v Wales | Cardiff | Result: 29-9
30 Nov | New Zealand v England | London | Result: 32-6

NZ WON all those games!!!

Kinda Busy Week

This week has been pretty good. Monday was Labour Day so I went out with my brother and his wife to Mission Bay for the afternoon. We got some lunch and went over to the grass area and sat there in the sun and ate our lunch. There were lots of people there enjoying the sun, kicking the ball around, kids playing in the water fountain and people just having a good day out. We later left to go to St Luke's mall for awhile then we came home.

On Wednesday and Frienday I went out shopping with my friend Richie.

Friday was Halloween so I had stayed up and watched the movies on tv and nibbled on some food. I was up till about 1.30am Saturday morning.

Job work in Process - Workplace Assessment Done!!

Yep the title pretty much sums it up, I finally had my workplace assessment done today!! I feel a lot better now as this was something that needed doing and I feel like I can 'still work' at this office. I met up with R (OT funded by Work Bridge) at my work along with M who is one of the Co-Managers there and we discussed options for a workable workstation for me and that was suitable for the other staff on the day's I'm not there.

My Solution 1 was good and the two Co-Mangers would be able to work off the raised desk BUT R (OT) said it involves to much maneuvering in my chair to get from one point of the desk to the open window where I greet customers and she said I shouldn't have to do that. She said that finding desk raisers for the height I need might be a problem as I need more height than what the desk raisers give. Back to square one of finding another solution.

R came up with the idea of getting a corner desk and I said I can't sit at corner desks with a curve in the middle of it and I drew her a picture to show her what I meant and also saying I wouldn't get close enough to the desk as it would curve over my lap basically.

R said the best solution is to get a corner desk 'without' the curve in the middle and get it custom raised as this will cost less as well. R said an electric height adjustable desk is costly and Work Bridge will not fund it unless it's the only way. Headset for phones and reacher/pick-up stick were discussed as well and she agrees that I need these.

So basically:
1: R will write up a report and do whatever else is involved in her part and send that to Work Bridge, this will be done in the week.
2: R will then contact me to say she has sent the report and give me any other updates that she's found.
3: Then I wait for Work Bridge to contact me about their final decision. If I haven't heard from Work Bridge in after a week, from hearing from R saying she sent the report, I'm to contact Work Bridge. (R said she doesn't know the time frame of when Work Bridge will contact me after they get her report, but she will write down it's fairly urgent)

I asked R about how I get the equipment etc and she said with the desk she will need to order that and get the desk custom raised by some people, who she goes through and then the desk will be delivered and installed by those people. R said to M (my co-manager) that the Community Centre will have to have the other desk moved and make sure the space is clear for the new desk. But R will most likely contact her when all this will take place.

R will also come and see me at work to make sure it's all working and if any changes or more adjustments are needed and that things are working for me.

I may not start work for 2 - 3 weeks depending on how long this process goes. But R said once funding is approved, equipment shouldn't take long to get.

I feel much better now that I had an OT that totally understands what I need and has the knowledge of what will work better for me and know where to get certian equipment without paying a fortune. *big smile on my face XD*

Diwali Festival of Lights

I went to the Diwali Festival of Lights yesterday which was on over the weekend down at the Viaduct Basin waterfront. The Diwali Festival of Lights gives the Auckland Indian communities the opportunity to share this much-loved cultural tradition with other New Zealander's and their families. This event celebrates the traditions of Diwali, and is also a celebration of Indian culture with scrumptious food, non-stop free family entertainment, Bollywood dancing, traditional crafts, and much more.

It was a really nice and hot day and I enjoyed seeing the Indain crafts, jewellery and their different foods, even there sweet food. I tried a Mango milkshake which had an Indain name, it was ok and I tried one of their ice blocks too.
I'm sitting on a bridge beside some designed Elephants


Diwali, also known as Deepavali (a "row of lamps"), is perhaps the most important and ancient of the Indian festivals. Dancer at Diwali Festival of Lights. It is celebrated throughout India as well as in Indian communities around the world. It is colloquially known as "The Festival of Lights" - the time when families light small oil lamps (known as diyas) and candles around the home and set off firecrackers and fireworks.

Two lady dancers


Below is a small video I took of the dancers..enjoy

Finally - Apple Store to hit Newmarket!!

I just came across some exciting news, well it's exciting for me since I use a iMac XD and like Apple products. Kiwi fans of the Apple brand will shortly have a dedicated venue at which to celebrate their devotion when the first New Zealand-based megastore opens soon in Auckland’s Newmarket district.

Construction has already begun on the new megastore located in the centre of Auckland’s Newmarket shopping precinct.

The store will serve as a replacement for MagnumMac’s existing location in Newton, for which the lease expires this December.

The new concept-store is located on the corner of Broadway and Khyber Pass Roads at what was previously Sounds Plus, which combined both Games Plus and Sounds stores in one location.

Split over two levels, the space, which has been dormant since Sounds Plus vacated, is said to be modelled on the successful Apple owned stores overseas, where the customer experience reigns supreme. The US-based stores are situated at high profile street or mall locations and are focused on enticing potential converts to the Mac platform.

The Newmarket store is owned and will operate under the MagnumMac brand. Existing MagnumMac customers, who wish to remain anonymous, were initially concerned about the area’s notoriously bad parking but understand the appeal of such a high profile location.

Taken from NetGuide

Apple’s new MacBooks

Woah look at these awesome looking MacBooks...

*drools over the MacBookPro* - which I wouldn't mind having with these specifications: 15-inch widescreen, 2.8GHz Intel Core Duo 2, 320GB Serial ATA @ 7200 Hard Drive, 4GB 1066MHz DDR3 SDRAM - 2x2GB. Even having a MacBook would be just as good. I could then sit anywhere and use the computer. Time to buy some lotto tickets ay

MacBook family that redefines notebook design, and at the same time lowers the entry price for advanced notebook features including all-metal enclosures and pro-performance notebook graphics by $NZ800. The new MacBook and 15-inch MacBook Pro both have a precision unibody enclosure crafted from a single block of aluminium, resulting in thinner, more durable designs. In addition, every member of the new MacBook family includes NVIDIA graphics, instant-on LED-backlit displays and new large glass Multi- Touch trackpads that offer almost 40% more tracking area and support more Multi-Touch gestures.

The entire new MacBook family meets stringent Energy Star 4.0, EPEAT Gold and RoHS environmental standards, and contains no brominated flame retardants, using only PVC- free internal cables and components, and uses energy efficient LED- backlit displays that are mercury-free and made with arsenic-free glass.

The new MacBook line features the powerful new NVIDIA GeForce 9400M, a revolutionary new 3D integrated graphics processor that features 16 parallel processing cores and delivers up to five times the 3D graphics performance as previous MacBook and MacBook Air designs.

The new smooth glass Multi-Touch trackpad on the MacBook and 15-inch MacBook Pro makes it even easier to use Multi-Touch gestures like pinch, rotate and swipe. New gestures allow users to activate Exposé or switch between applications at the touch of a fingertip. The entire trackpad surface is also a button, allowing users to both track and click virtually anywhere on the trackpad. Users can easily enable multiple virtual buttons in software, such as right-clicking.

The new MacBook has an entry price (RRP) $NZ2399 inc. GST.

Featuring the new NVIDIA GeForce 9400M graphics processor, MacBook delivers outstanding 3D game play on a consumer notebook, with up to five times faster graphics performance than the previous generation. The new MacBook is available in two models: the 2.0 GHz MacBook with a 160GB 5400 rpm hard drive, and the 2.4 GHz MacBook with a 250GB 5400 rpm hard drive and a backlit keyboard.

The new 15-inch MacBook Pro starts at a recommended retail price $NZ3699 inc. GST. It uses the latest Intel Core 2 Duo processors available, running up to 2.8 GHz, and a new graphics architecture that allows users to switch between the NVIDIA GeForce 9400M integrated graphics processor for better battery life and the powerful NVIDIA GeForce 9600M GT discrete graphics processor for higher performance. The new MacBook Pro is available in two models: a 2.4 GHz model with a 250GB 5400 rpm hard drive and a 2.53 GHz model with a 320GB 5400 rpm hard drive.

Apple has also updated MacBook Air and the 17-inch MacBook Pro. MacBook Air, measuring only 4mm at its thinnest point, 19mm at its maximum height and weighing just 1.36Kgs, now includes new NVIDIA GeForce 9400M integrated graphics and a faster architecture to provide robust support for 3D games and enhanced performance. Starting at recommended retail price $NZ3299 inc. GST, MacBook Air is available with a 120GB 4200 rpm hard drive, a 50% increase from the previous generation, or a new 128GB solid state drive.

The updated 17- inch MacBook Pro keeps its original aluminium design, and now comes standard with a high resolution 1920 x 1200 LED-backlit display and a larger 320GB hard drive or an optional 128GB solid state drive. The new MacBook, 15-inch MacBook Pro and MacBook Air include a next generation, industry-standard Mini DisplayPort to connect with the new Apple LED Cinema Display featuring a 24-inch LED-backlit widescreen display with a built-in iSight video camera, mic and speakers. Part of the next- generation DisplayPort industry standard, the new Mini DisplayPort delivers a pure digital signal that can drive up to a 30-inch widescreen display. Adapters are available for using the MacBook’s Mini DisplayPort with older generation VGA, DVI/HDMI and Dual-Link DVI displays.

Every Mac in the Apple lineup comes with iLife ‘08, Apple’s award- winning suite of digital lifestyle applications, featuring iPhoto and a completely reinvented iMovie, both seamlessly integrated with the MobileMe Gallery for online photo and video sharing. Every Mac also includes the Leopard operating system which features the Time Machine backup system (separate hard drive required); a redesigned Finder that lets users quickly browse and share files between multiple Macs; Quick Look, the best way to instantly see files without opening an application; Spaces, an intuitive feature used to create groups of applications and instantly switch between them; and major enhancements to Mail and iChat.

Pricing and availability
The new MacBook, 15-inch MacBook Pro and 17-inch MacBook Pro are now shipping and the new MacBook Air will be available in early November through the Apple Store (www.apple.com/nz) and Apple Authorised Resellers. An updated 13-inch white MacBook featuring 2.1 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processors, a 120GB 5400 rpm hard drive and a slot-load 8X SuperDrive is now available for a recommended retail price of $NZ1848 inc. GST. Other prices as follows:

The 2.0 GHz, 13-inch aluminium MacBook: $NZ2399
The 2.4 GHz aluminium MacBook: $NZ2899
The 2.4 GHz, 15-inch aluminium MacBook Pro: $NZ3699
The 2.53 GHz aluminium MacBook Pro: $NZ4599
The 1.6 GHz MacBook Air: $NZ3299
The 1.86 GHz MacBook Air: $NZ4599
The 2.5GHz 17-inch MacBook Pro: $NZ5099
Taken from NetGuide

Job work in Process - Work and Income Update

I just got a phone call from T (WINZ Employment Co-ord) asking me if I had got in contact with anyone from WINZ today and I said no not unless S has. T then informed me that someone contacted WINZ Manager this morning, about my case and saying that Work Bridge won't help me and that the Manager contacted Work Bridge to tell them this isn't on and to start moving my case!!! I didn't know what to say to T, due to the hours I had spent this morning with my boss. T from WINZ said that I should hear from Work Bridge tomorrow or soon about arranging to meet there OT at my Work to do a workplace assessment.

I have a feeling S has contacted WINZ manager as she asked me if I had talked to them about getting funding for an OT as T (WINZ co-ord) had said no)

Job work in Process - Talked to my Boss

Today I went to my work place and talked to one of the Manager's. I spent two hours with him working out a solution for a workstation for me which will be suitable for me and the two staff members. I had the measurements of the desk height I needed which was between 75cm and 77cm.

Solution 1 - Remove the L-Shape desk from the office and replace it with the longer non-corner desk and put storage cabniets at each end for files and stuff. Raise the desk with wood or something so I can get under the desk. The Manager will have to replace the desk for the person who was using the non-corner desk, who again works PT like me. The desktop computer would sit near the right end of the desk. This solution will 'only work' if the two manager's can work at the desk height, when I'm not in the office.

Solution 2 - Go through WINZ first (Work Bridge 2nd) to get an Electric Adjustable desk that would be suitable for all of us to work off. Remove the L-Shape desk from the office and put the height adjustable desk in it's place with storage cabnets on either side. The desktop computer would sit near the right end of the desk. This solution will defiently work as anyone can adjust the desk via a push of a button.

He will contact me on Thursday about the above once he's talking to the other staff

Bathurst 1000: Winners 2008

Well I reckon Greg Murphy would of won if Graig Lownde's hadn't knocked the side of his car on the 3rd lap giving Murphy's Holden more damage than tire trouble. Murphy ended up around 25 spot and I thought that's it for him and he finished the race in second spot!! Murphy was stuck behind another car slowing him down and giving Murphy's car hot air. Finally Murphy passed and got some cool air intake and came second, if this happened on the 10th or so lap then Murphy would of caught Lowndes and passed him and won.

Congrats to Graig Lowndes and Jamie Wincup in there Ford on winning Bathrust, they became the first men in 24 years to win a hat-trick of Bathurst 1000 titles.


Some info and Photo take from NZ Hearld

Bathurst 1000: Top Ten Shoot-out qualifying times.

Garth Tander and Mark Skaife (HOLDEN) steal pole for Supercheap Bathurst 1000 in Top Ten Shoot-out. Way to go guys!!

1. Mark Skaife/Garth Tander Toll/HRT Holden 2m 07.2963s 2m 07.3645s
2. Mark Winterbottom/Steven Richards FPR Ford 2m 07.4206s 2m 07.1920s
3. James Courtney/David Besnard SBR/Jeld-Wen Ford 2m 07.7025s 2m 07.2972s
4. Paul Dumbrell/Rick Kelly Autobarn/HSV Holden 2m 07.8022s 2m 07.6094s*
5. Craig Lowndes/Jamie Whincup 888/Vodafone Ford 2m 07.9513s 2m 07.2699s
6. Greg Murphy/Jason Richards Tasman Holden 2m 07.9876s 2m 07.2333s
7. Will Davison/Steven Johnson DJR/Jim Beam Ford 2m 08.2511s 2m 07.4599s
8. Paul Morris/Russell Ingall Morris/Supercheap Holden 2m 08.7800s 2m 07.7974s
9. Fabien Coulthard/Alex Davison PCR/Glenfords Ford 2m 08.8051s 2m 07.7321s
10. Max Wilson/Brad Jones Team WOW Holden 2m 09.1940s 2m 07.8022s

Bathurst 1000: Practice Sessions News

New Zealander Paul Radisich crash occurred in the earlier practice session today, leaving the New Zealand driver with a broken ankle. The throttle stuck, causing the 46-year-old to clip the wall at about 180km/h before hammering the safety barrier head on.

New Zealand's Paul Radisich receives medical attention after he came to grief during practice for the Bathurst 1000 yesterday. Photo / Getty Images

Two years ago Paul Radisich was involved in another serious crash at the mountain and had to be airlifted to hospital after being extracted from the wreckage. He also suffered a broken ankle then. Paul Radisich's crash saw the No 15 car scratched from today's big race, leaving Kelly without a drive. But in bizarre scenes, the co-driver in HSV's No 16 entry, David Reynolds, was pulled out for "exceptional circumstances" leaving a spot free for Kelly to join regular fulltime team-mate Paul Dumbrell. Reynolds has been on the drip this week battling gastroenteritis but still drove in the second-tier Fujitsu series race yesterday. In the end, the team deemed Reynolds would not be capable of completing his full stint in the gruelling 1000-kilometre event. Dumbrell and Kelly will start from fourth on the grid. "I'm obviously stoked to be able to have a car but it's a hard one because my thoughts are still with Paul," Kelly said. "It's mixed emotions, to be honest." Info taken from NZ Hearld

Cold is Gone

My cold is all gone now so I'm feeling 100% better. I do still have a slight cough but that go eventually as it's usually the last to go. Hopefully that be the last cold now as Summer is arriving soon XD

Bathurst 1000 Weekend

Yep, it's Bathurst 1000 weekend again FORD vs HOLDEN and I'm a HOLDEN fan XD
The V8 cars have been practicing today and will later do the Top 10 Shoot-out for pole position. I love watching the Big Race and have watched it every year. Below is a map of the track, I'd love to wheel around Mount Panorama Circuit one day and go to the bathurst 1000 race live.


Practice Runs today
Team Kiwi Racing have been dealt a major blow ahead of Sunday's Bathurst 1000 after a serious crash resulted in Chris Pither's car being withdrawn from the race on Mt Panorama.

V8 Supercar driver Paul Weel is expected to be cleared of any serious injury following the heavy accident during practice this morning. Weel, 29, had to be extracted from his car after an accident involving Pither that left him with lower back pain. He was airlifted to a nearby hospital for precautionary tests.

The accident occurred near the McPhillamey Park area of the Mount Panorama circuit. Weel had made contact with a safety barrier and slid sideways onto the track. Pither approached from behind and collided with the rear drivers' side door. Pither walked away unhurt. Weel was fully conscious throughout the ordeal and was talking to the medical team. The lower back pain meant the medical team decided to airlift the PWR driver. Both cars have been withdrawn from the weekend due to the extensive damage.

Taken from stuff.co.nz

Job work in Process - Community OT & WINZ

I finally got in contact with T from Work and Income today and asked if they will pay the Community OT who does the workplace assessment, the answer was no. So basically Work Bridge won't pay for an OT to do an assessment as I have to go through WINZ first and WINZ won't pay for the OT either. So where the heck do people like me get funding for an Workplace OT? I was told my Employer is over budget and most likely won't be able to pay the OT either but I need to find out for sure. If they can't then I will contact MDN and try them.

I've just been looking at the office photos I took awhile ago and I may have a solution!! They have enough desks that possibly they could move there main L-Shape desk to where two normal desks are sitting in another part of the office. Then move the 2 normal desks and place them where the L-Shape desk was. I would then need to get some wood wedges made to make the desk high enough for me to get under. The computer would then be put onto my desk so I can use it when needed. On the day's I'm not there, the other two staff can use my desk and the other desk. I just hope that the height I need for my desk will be suitable for the two staff member's. If not I might apply to Work Bridge for a laptop for me to use and it would stay on my desk and there desktop computer would go on the other desk which is at a suitable height for them. If I have to pay something towards getting a laptop I will send some support letters off to company's that could help.

Job work in Process - OT and Moving Start Date Forward

Last night I got the information from the Workplace OT about what she will help me with and cost details which was great. I talked to my support person S about it and said that I'm going to contact T and Work and Income tomorrow to see if they will provide funding to pay the OT and move on from there.

I also said that 'starting work next week is not going to happen' as the workplace isn't suitable for me to start work. Even with her suggestion of raising the desk so I could get under it, won't really help. S said she would come in each day I worked and raise the desk with some peices of wood and remove them at the end of the day so the desk suits the other staff, but there is more to that for me to have a suitable workstation. They would need to move the computer as I can't sit at a corner desk in my powerchair. I said I want to start work when my workstation is all setup for me and I have the equipment to work. There is more to just a suitable workstation at a Workplace than S realises.

S has contacted the workplace Employer and let them know I can't start next week and will ring me tomorrow to give me an update about it.

In the weekend I also got a letter from Work Bridge 'Approving' my Job Application for taxi transport to and from work, which was great, at least they have approved something for me! I will have to contact them to say when I will start working and the taxi company as my start date has changed. Actually I don't even know when I start at the moment.

Have a Small Cold

On Thursday evening I developed a dry scratchy throat and thought nothing of it really. I have a small head cold now I think as I have a cough and a dry throat still which is annoying. I'm having to drink more which is good lol but it helps keep my scratchy throat less irritable.

A part from that I'm going to do some work work on my website and liten to my iTunes XD

Job work in Process - Community OT Contacted

Today I contacted the Workplace OT (DRC referred them to me) and she is going to email me the details of what she can provide for me and the cost details over the weekend. I will most likely ask Work and Income to provide the funding for the workplace assessment since they provide the Modification Grant, if they won't fund the OT, then I have to ask my employer. If my employer is unable to provide the funding then I will go to one of the organisation's I'm a member with.

Rib Update

My rib area is much better, it's healed pretty quick which is great. I went off my pain relief 4 days ago as I wanted to see what the pain was like without the pain relief. I was able to last during the day and over night without pain relief, although overnight I still had some discomfort.

I think my magnetic underlay on my bed helped and also having my electric blanket on before I went to bed helped as I had some warm heat against my rib area when lying on that side. So I'm pretty much back to normal.

Job work in Process - Community OT Update

I have contacted everyone I know that might be able to help me and all of them have referred me to Workbridge un-aware of Workbridge's new changes. I have also checked with a the organizations I'm a member with as they might be able to provide me with an OT that works there if they have one.

Disability Resource Centre (DRC): I talked to a friend who works at the Disability Resource Centre (someone who has used Work Bridge for their work and again was shocked to hear Work Bridge won't help till I try elsewhere) who gave me some OT contacts. Only one of those OT's maybe able to help but I'm waiting to hear from them on Friday.

CCS: I contacted another friend who works at CCS who also has a physical disability and used Work Bridge for their work and again were surprised to hear what I told them. They have no Workplace OT's available.

MDN: I've also contacted the Muscular Dystrophy Branch Northern (MDN) and talked to them (another friend who has a physical disability and used Work Bridge) about Work Bridge and where I can find an OT to do a workplace assessment or someone in that Profession. MDN found it hard to believe that Work Bridge won't help me as my first source of funding for equipment. MDN contacted Work Bridge in another area and checked this out and was surprised to find out — that if someone was currently on a benefit, they have to apply to WINZ first as Work Bridge are what they call themselves 'last resort' for funding. If I wasn't on a benefit it be a different story. We found this really strange as Work Bridge are there to help, yet they are putting another barrier in front of us, before we can actually get into the job.

My Community OT: Only does home and home equipment assessments via Ministry of Health (MOH)

Wheel Skating is so much Fun!!

I went to the Paradise Ice Skating Arena today with my friend Richie, his carer and her daughter. I had so much fun wheel skating/drifting, doing sliding 360's hahah I felt like a kid!! It was 4 degrees in the arena too, but I was having too much fun to worry about the chill in the air. We found a very slippery icy part and just went full speed into it and then into a turn on the icy part. I'd love to try this is my Arrow on a very fast drive as I'd do a lot more sliding XD

Where we wheeled onto the ice


Me and Richie on the Ice




Not sure about getting on the ice

Daylight Savings

It's daylight savings time again. Last night before I went to bed I put my clocks 'forward' one hour. I lost an hour of sleep last night but I got up at 9.30am this morning which would of been 8.30am and I do feel tired today.

We get more light in the evenings now... YAY more BBQ time, I love BBQ's and also like havng more light in the evenings. It be dark in the mornings but that won't affect me really.

Brought an Apple iPod Universal Dock

I didn't go to sports today as I don't want to aggravate my rib area and make it worse. Instead I went food shopping with Mum and Dad and had some lunch at The Coffee House, which I had yummy fish n chips.

I finally brought myself a iPod Universal Dock, which my iPod Nano will sit in and charge and synchronize my iTunes music.

I don't have to unplug and plug in the USB cable all the time now. It looks kewl too sitting on my desk.
Apple Universal Dock Overview-----CLICK ME

Managing my rib pain with Codalgin

I'm managing the rib pain with some pain relief called Codalgin which I take morning and night, I can take some during the day if needed. I can now carry on with doing things without too much pain now which makes things easier for me. During the night I can feel some discomfort in the rib area but can get some sleep. I still wake up more needing to get comfortable again, but once this lessens then I know it's healing.

Dr's, Bad Night and X-Rays

Yesterday I decided to pick up a prescription and see the Dr about my sore rib area as it's not getting any better pain wise. The Dr poked around the back and side of my ribs to see where it was tender and check for bruising. The pain is towards the front side of my rib cage, not right next to the sternum/breast bone and not right on the side underneath my armpit or at the back. I could have done a few things, a rib strain, cracked a rib or even popped off the cartilage holding the rib to breast bone but treatment is pain relief for all injuries and may take up to 3-6 weeks. Gah that's a bit too long so I hope the pain relief kicks in fast, mainly at night. The Dr ordered an x-ray which I can do this week at another clinic, covered under ACC. I wheeled home and my rib area around the front really hurt on movement and when I breathe, the pain was worse that afternoon than anytime before.

Last night was awful, I was in so much pain while trying to get myself ready for bed. I couldn't get my right leg compression stocking off so went to bed with it on. It took me about 30 minutes to get into bed, compared to 5 minutes. I couldn't lie flat on my left side as it was making breathing hard and very sore so I had to sit the head end of the bed up into half sitting position to get some comfort. I lasted about an hour like that as I got pressure on my heels and bottom so I had to turn over to my right side. I had the head end sitting up a bit again and slowley over time lay down flatter. I didn't sleep much at all last night due to not getting comfortable and the pain, the Nurofen I took before I went to bed did nothing at all.

Getting up, showered and dressed for today was easier as I was warm after my shower which helps my legs be less tight/stiff and less pain in the rib area. Once I was in my powerchair I felt more comfortable.

I rang the nurse at my Medical Centre asking if my Dr can prescribe me some stronger pain relief for nightime so I can get some sleep and feel more comfortable. I got this delivered to me this afternoon.

I went with Dad to the Clinic to get a chest/rib x-ray done. The two lady's were very good with me and they were able to take the x-rays while I sat forward in my chair with foam pieces behind me, oh and the x-ray film. I had 4 x-rays done and took copies home and was told that my Dr should have the report in the afternoon.

I've just rang the Medical Centre to see if the report has gone to them and it has, I asked for a copy to be sent to me. Report say's that the ribs are all in tack which is good, no pneumothorax or pleural effusion. The left lung and cardiac area is all clear and normal.

Basically I may have damaged the area where my rib cartilage attaches to my rib bone at the front/side (not the front/side where the cartilage attaches from rib to sternum/breast bone)

Spring has Arrived

A little late in posting but Spring is finally here. The weather is a little warmer now and the grass is growing like it's weed hehe

I have to get my grass cut soon as it hasn't been cut for a couple months due to the wet weather we had over the Winter. I will be trying to get outside more now and making the most of it.

Job work in Process - Phone Calls Update

A busy day today which was good, had a hair appt this morning and did some other things this afternoon. I also had three conversations with another Community OT called C who helped me out. She had talked to T from Workbridge saying that I need their OT to come and do the work place assessment as my Community OT doesn't do that, they do Home assessments only. T from Workbridge and T from Work and Income talked and got back to C. C rang me at the end of the afternoon telling me that the Workbridge OT will do the work place assessment and I just need to wait for her to contact me.

S rang me this evening too and I updated her with the above info.

Hurt My Rib Area

I had Wheelchair Service over this afternoon about 4pm to replace my seat and back on my manaul chair and fix the loose rim. It took them 4 trips to complete this job as they got the wrong parts, but it's all fixed now.

The tech was putting new rubber push handles on as he had to remove the old to get the back seat cover off the back canes. The chair kept moving as he was hitting the rubber push handles on with a hammer and he asked me to hold the chair still as much as I can. I was sitting side on and twisted my upper body so I could rest my right hand on the seat of the chair and I had my left hand on the armrest and when the tech hit the rubber push handle and the chair moved forward as I couldn't hold it still and I heard a 'pop' type noise and felt a sharp pain in my rib area and shortness od breath for a minute or two. I then hurt every move I did. humm not sure what I've done. Hopefully I haven't broken anything and it heals fast as this is slowing me down.

Job work in Process - Phone Calls

Today I did some phone calls to get more information so I know what steps to take next. I'm stressed out a bit as this is more work than I expected to get into a job.

I talked to T from Workbridge asking her what is going on and T said that my application is open, not accepted or declined BUT I have to first look else where for funding support. S my support worker didn't quite give me the right information on Friday so I'm glad I talked to T myself. I asked about my transport funding and T said that Workbridge will probably be able to fund that still. Basically T needs a written letter from Work and Income stating they 'will' or they 'won't' fund equipment then T can get my application accepted or declined depending on Work and Income outcome.

I have contacted my Community OT R and talked to her about the job and workstation. I've asked her to meet me at the work place sometime soon and give me a recommended report on equipment/desks/tray/laptop etc that will suit my working needs. Once this is done we can move on to the next step.

I then contacted T (Employment Co-ordinator) from Work and Income and talked to her about the above and asked her what the Modifications Grant is for. I don't think I need this grant as I don't need any permanent modifications done to the work place. T said the first step is to get the report letter from my OT then call her back and she can tell me if Work and Income will be able to help me or not, then we can go from there.

I went up to the Work place today and got photos in case I need them.

Sports Practice Today

Today wheelchair sports was even better than the usual practices as today we had plenty of player's turn up. We were finally able to play 5 vs 5 with positions, which we haven't been able to do in over 2 years!!!

In hockey our team decided to change positions at times to give each other a go in a different area on the court. Our team did really well and we won the hockey. We had another new player turn up too who really enjoyed playing hockey today.

We then played balloon soccer but we didn't play positions, everyone plays everywhere, it was fun even though our team took the loss.

Job work in Process - Workbridge Meeting Update

Well I just got a call this morning from my support person S letting me know that the T from Workbridge I met on Monday said that Workbridge won't fund any equipment for me as they are the last source of funding!!!! For god's sake, why didn't Workbridge tell me this before I even completed the Job Support Application form and got all the other pieces of information I needed. Why didn't T not ring me herself and tell me the day after our meeting? she had all my contact details as well.

We were told to go to Work and Income to try the Modifications Grant to help get the equipment. I googled this and read about what the grant is for etc. It sounds like it might work but then again there are a few issues that come into it. The workstation is the biggest thing that needs changing or a tray/desk funded for me. I also need a ID's and other stuff to attach to my application...so here we go all over again. I'm meant to start in October.

I almost feel like turning the job down and looking for another job that has a better size work area!! Getting equipment and transport funding is just as hard as finding a freakin job.

Job work in Process - Workbridge Meeting

Today I met up with a lady (will name her T) from Workbridge to talk about funding for equipment for me to use at work and a workstation. I had my support person (which we will name S) with me too. We met at the job place so she could see where I'll be working. I had most of the 'Job Support Application' filled out and had everything else that I needed to attach to the form all ready. We talked about trasnport to and from work and the workstation. T accepted my Job Support Application.

An OT from Workbridge will contact me sometime soon to met me at the workplace to look at the office and see what is needed for my needs to work there.

I checked out the back to see where the taxi could drop me off and pick me up and checked some other things out before I left. I needed to change my hours and that was all good and I start in October.

Dinner at Peral Garden Yum Cha

I went to my friend's 22nd birthday dinner last night at Peral Garden Yum Cha. Dad and I went and it was a very nice night out and a yummy dinner. I was able to catch up with another friend who went, so that was good. We had a Banquet of different dishes and they were all good.

One of the Harley Davidson Owner's Group members was at Peral Garden Yum Cha too and came over to me to say hello, it was good to see them again, it's been about 5 yrs since I last saw him and his wife.

Beijing Paralympic Games 2008 Opening Ceremony

I watched a replay of the Beijing Paralympic Games 2008 Opening Ceremony today. The ceremony was really good, it's Paralympic theme was of "Transcendence, Equality and Integration."

The cauldron is lit by Chinese Athletics athlete Hou Bin. He uses a wheelchair and pulled himself up to the cauldron via some rope, all on his own.
I saw the NZ team enter the bird's Nest and saw some athletes I knew. I look forward to watching some of these games on tv one over the week.

Some fireworks going off

Job work in Process

I've been in contact with Workbridge trying to sort out things for my work as I will need a workstation and other equipment to help me work. I have a meeting next week with a lady from Workbridge to fill out a 'Job Application Form' which needs support letters attached. Once this form has been processed (may take up to two weeks) Workbridge will orgainse a Community OT to meet me at the workplace and see what is needed for me to work.

Over the last week I have got quotes for some equipment I think I will need, getting support letters started and getting other things ready to attach to the application form. The quicker I get the application form in and the OT out the quicker I can start.

I've been waiting for my work contract and I recieved it this afternoon. So I have almost everything now. My next battle is finding some transport to and from work with a taxi company that can fit me in around school runs.

Still got Chillblains

I still have these chillblains on my toes, the main chillblain that is still sore is the one on my second to last toe.

It get's a bit sore in my shoe during the day and gets worse when it's really cold. At night it can get sore when it's resting on the mattress. I have a electric bed so I'm able to lower the leg end right down to help relieve pressure on the toe but it doesn't lower enough. I have a magnet underlay which helps with the circulation in my legs at night. I hope the chillblains go soon.

Closing Ceremony of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games

Last night I watched the closing ceremony of Beijing Olympics, which went through into the early hours of the morning. I thought the ceremony was awesome and well done. Beijing handed the games over to London who will host it time. David Beckham was there too and kicked a soccer ball into the crowd.

This shows the Birds nest

I thought the Beijing opening and closing ceremony's were one of the best ever out of all the Olympic games, they made it very spectacular.

The sacred flame is doused at the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games

Valentines

I was at Valentines for dinner tonight with my friend Mandy and some of her friends and family. Mandy is off to the Beijing Paralympic's to compete in Boccia.

Dinner was very nice, I had salads and a bread roll first then I had some roast meat and gravey, roast potato's, chicken and vegs. For pudding I had some kind of hot peach crumble and some chocolate moose. I had a Mango Colada cocktail drink which was so yummy and a coke on the side.

Mandy and I had a good time catching up and talking about the games, wheelchairs and more.

Olympics Games

I've been watching the Olympics games on TV One most days and have been enjoying it. I've kept up with the NZ Mens Hockey games and stayed up and watched one of the games but unfortunately we didn't get a medal, but we did come 7th in the hockey. The NZ Women's didn't do well either so that was a bit sad to hear. We got a few medals in the rowing and some other sports so that's good.

There's quite a variety of sports in the games, some sports I've never seen like Handball. I enjoyed watching the swimming, diving, waterpolo and the water rafting.

Only a couple days left for the Olympics games then it's all over.

Out for Lunch

Today I went out with my friend Richie to Newmarket for lunch at Peral Garden Yum Cha, we met up with John and his carer too. When Richie came to pick me up in the taxi, the taxi drove a little bit onto the grass, then as the taxi went into reverse, the front wheels were spinning and got stuck in the wet grass. It took 30 minutes for us to get unstuck, the taxi driver ended up contacting one of his other drivers to come pull us out haha. The taxi left a mess on my grass!!

Lunch at yum cha was very good, we had chinese food and it was so yummy. Different kinds of food were brought out to the table and we could decide if we wanted that or not. My favorite was the spring rolls and the mango desert. Richie, John and I and the carers had a good chat and a laugh.

Richie and I then went and had a look at a few shops then we went home.

Mould is Back - Update 1

A lady from Housing NZ came around to check out the mould situation. I showed her photos of the mould that used to be there and she asked me to email the photos to her, which I did. She can see the outside problem and also suggested I open my windows to help with moisture in the flat. I have my main door open most of the time but will open up some windows.

I now wait for her to get back to me and tell me what is going to happen to get rid of the new mould growth and if they will get the drain in outside.