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.
Friday, November 07, 2008
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
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.
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.
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.
Saturday, November 01, 2008
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!!!
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!!!
Friday, October 31, 2008
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.
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.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
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*
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*
Monday, October 20, 2008
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
Friday, October 17, 2008
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
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
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
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
*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
Monday, October 13, 2008
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)
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
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
Sunday, October 12, 2008
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
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
Saturday, October 11, 2008
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
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
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
Friday, October 10, 2008
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 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.nzWednesday, October 08, 2008
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.
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.
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
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.
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.
Sunday, October 05, 2008
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
A part from that I'm going to do some work work on my website and liten to my iTunes XD
Friday, October 03, 2008
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.
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.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
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)
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
Me and Richie on the Ice
Not sure about getting on the ice
Sunday, September 28, 2008
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.
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.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
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
I finally brought myself a iPod Universal Dock, which my iPod Nano will sit in and charge and synchronize my iTunes music.
Apple Universal Dock Overview-----CLICK ME
Friday, September 26, 2008
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.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
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)
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)
Thursday, September 18, 2008
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.
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.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
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.
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.
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.
Monday, September 15, 2008
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.
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.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
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.
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.
Friday, September 12, 2008
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.
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.
Monday, September 08, 2008
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.
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.
Sunday, September 07, 2008
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.
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
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
Thursday, September 04, 2008
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.
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.
Friday, August 29, 2008
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.
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.
Monday, August 25, 2008
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
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
Sunday, August 24, 2008
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.
Saturday, August 23, 2008
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.
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.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
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.
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.
Monday, August 18, 2008
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.
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.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Accepted a Job
I was offered a part time job last week which was great. I had a think about it over the weekend and the last couple of days and 'accepted' the job today.
I now have to wait to hear back from them and check in with Workbridge about transport and other equipment I may need, as they will be able to help me with that.
I now have to wait to hear back from them and check in with Workbridge about transport and other equipment I may need, as they will be able to help me with that.
Saturday, August 09, 2008
Beijing Olympics 2008 Opening Ceremony
I stayed up last night to watch the coverage of the Beijing Olympics Opening Ceremony which started around midnight. I couldn't stay up all night to watch it, but what I did see was awesome and amazing. The young 9yr old girl singing to the world was really amazing, she had a smile on her face while she sang. The olympic rings display was really neat, here is a picture below
and pictured below is: Fireworks go off after the torch is lit during the Opening Ceremony for the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics at the National Stadium on August 8, 2008 in Beijing, China.
Friday, August 08, 2008
Poly-Emp Rang - Job Available
S from Poly-Emp rang me up today to say that the job at the BHBCC is available if I want it!!
I didn't really know what to say as I wasn't sure that particular job is what I wanted, but I said that's great and I would like to think about it over the weekend and I will get back to you next week.
I didn't really know what to say as I wasn't sure that particular job is what I wanted, but I said that's great and I would like to think about it over the weekend and I will get back to you next week.
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
Mould is Back!!
I can't believe this but I have mould growing through the freaking carpet again in the corner of my lounge.
Housing NZ were meant to add a retaining wall outside the back of the flat last summer, to prevent the water building up and blocking the air gaps in the concrete bricks and mould from returning!! But guess what?? it's not done!! and you know why?? because of $$$$$.
I was told it will be done when the funding comes through and it'll be done in the Summer, of 2007 ready for the following winter. I'm really annoyed about this as it makes it inconvient for me when they have to replace carpet like this. It's about time Housing NZ really took some care about there homes!! and complete the jobs that they said they would do. Now I have to run around to get this problem sorted.
If I ever move into another flat, appartment or house, it won't be Housing NZ!!
I was told it will be done when the funding comes through and it'll be done in the Summer, of 2007 ready for the following winter. I'm really annoyed about this as it makes it inconvient for me when they have to replace carpet like this. It's about time Housing NZ really took some care about there homes!! and complete the jobs that they said they would do. Now I have to run around to get this problem sorted.
*I complained about the mould and thin carpet, in 2005
*Flat was measured up for new carpet, in May 2006
*Flat was measured up for new carpet again, in June 2006
*Carpet has been ordered, in July 2006
*I had my carpet replaced, in August 2006
*Flat was measured up for new carpet, in May 2006
*Flat was measured up for new carpet again, in June 2006
*Carpet has been ordered, in July 2006
*I had my carpet replaced, in August 2006
If I ever move into another flat, appartment or house, it won't be Housing NZ!!
Monday, August 04, 2008
Poly-Emp Catch-Up
S came over this afternoon for a coffee at the Cafe across the road and to talk about what she has done and other things relating to job search. Basically she has contacted all the local schools and none of them have jobs. We talked about other jobs I could do at the Malls and other places when the time came.
S said she had a meeting with two people at BHBCC, who were looking for someone to work in reception while they go out and do visits or other small jobs in the community. I said I was kinda interested and S said it's a good opportunity for me and the work has a variety of jobs to do.
I basically want to work out in the Community with other people, not work where I'm stuck on my own, as I do that at home.
S said she had a meeting with two people at BHBCC, who were looking for someone to work in reception while they go out and do visits or other small jobs in the community. I said I was kinda interested and S said it's a good opportunity for me and the work has a variety of jobs to do.
I basically want to work out in the Community with other people, not work where I'm stuck on my own, as I do that at home.
Sunday, August 03, 2008
All Blacks thrashed Australia
Ben and I went to the last Tri Nations game at Eden Park for 2008. Eden Park was a complete sell out and even Helen Clark (Prime Minister) was there watching the game.
The All Blacks whipped Australia's butt and took the win 39-10 which should keep the All Black's alive in the Tri Nations and Bledisloe Cup. It was an awesome and exciting game to watch in the freezing cold wind which was on our backs. The rain held off for pretty much of the game although the wind was there which didn't affect the kicking too much for Carter. The All Blacks got an amazing tri at the end which has given them a bonus point.
CLICK ME for the Tri Nation scores
The All Blacks whipped Australia's butt and took the win 39-10 which should keep the All Black's alive in the Tri Nations and Bledisloe Cup. It was an awesome and exciting game to watch in the freezing cold wind which was on our backs. The rain held off for pretty much of the game although the wind was there which didn't affect the kicking too much for Carter. The All Blacks got an amazing tri at the end which has given them a bonus point.
CLICK ME for the Tri Nation scores
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Job Interview
I had a job interview today at the BHBCC and I was a little nervous. S from Poly-Emp took me in my van and we arrived on time which was good.
I meet the two Co-Manager's and they seemed very nice. They talked to me about what they are looking for and what I'd be doing and asked me what I had to offer, skill wise. I handed them my CV which they had a look over and were impressed with. I told them I had good computer skills with both Mac and Windows software, front desk skills and more. One of the Co-Managers showed me there booking system and some other things that I'd be doing.
One thing that S didn't overlook and I noticed was that the office is very small and there is a window where they greet people and discuss bookings, yet I can't get near the window and the desk is to low as I can't get under it. There is enough room for me to do a 360 turn in my wheelchair. This was kinda off putting to me a little and the other thing I was concerned about is they want me to be at the front desk while they are out of the office in meetings and such. I want to work with people, not on my own.
They do have a disabled bathroom with a left handed rail which was perfect so that was one less worry for me. I could in fact have drinks at work without worrying about where the nearest disabled toilet is or not having a drink and waiting till I get home.
Overall the job sounded good.
I meet the two Co-Manager's and they seemed very nice. They talked to me about what they are looking for and what I'd be doing and asked me what I had to offer, skill wise. I handed them my CV which they had a look over and were impressed with. I told them I had good computer skills with both Mac and Windows software, front desk skills and more. One of the Co-Managers showed me there booking system and some other things that I'd be doing.
One thing that S didn't overlook and I noticed was that the office is very small and there is a window where they greet people and discuss bookings, yet I can't get near the window and the desk is to low as I can't get under it. There is enough room for me to do a 360 turn in my wheelchair. This was kinda off putting to me a little and the other thing I was concerned about is they want me to be at the front desk while they are out of the office in meetings and such. I want to work with people, not on my own.
They do have a disabled bathroom with a left handed rail which was perfect so that was one less worry for me. I could in fact have drinks at work without worrying about where the nearest disabled toilet is or not having a drink and waiting till I get home.
Overall the job sounded good.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Two Weather Bombs!
The weather has been crap over the last few weeks!!! The North Island was hit with a bad weather bomb, the worst storm in a decade with winds gusting to hurricane force at 167km/h. There was lots of flooding, powerline's down and trees up rooted. There was power cuts in different area's but I was lucky not to get a single power cut, just lights flickering. I stayed inside and kept warm with the gas heater on.
Check out the wild storm photos from the NZ Hearld here
Check out the wild storm photos from the NZ Hearld here
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Meeting with Poly-Emp and WINZ
I just had a meeting with S from Poly-Emp and T from WINZ, T is an Employment Coordinator and is really nice. We had this meeting as I had quite a few questions regarding pay and my benefit and how much would my benefit be knocked down. I also wanted to know if working 6 hrs with so much was worth it etc.
Basically working 10hrs at $15 an hour is worth working. If I was working 6hrs then I would have to see how it affect my benefit with the amount of pay I get, sometimes it may not be worth the 6hr work.
When I used to work and I got a pay rise, it was basically removed from me as my rent would go up and my benefit would go down, this happened at every pay rise, leaving me with no achievement in the end. T suggested that instead of a pay rise I could ask for a day off with pay or something similar and this would be a pay rise for me.
I got a lot of questions answered and felt good at the end of the meeting.
Basically working 10hrs at $15 an hour is worth working. If I was working 6hrs then I would have to see how it affect my benefit with the amount of pay I get, sometimes it may not be worth the 6hr work.
When I used to work and I got a pay rise, it was basically removed from me as my rent would go up and my benefit would go down, this happened at every pay rise, leaving me with no achievement in the end. T suggested that instead of a pay rise I could ask for a day off with pay or something similar and this would be a pay rise for me.
I got a lot of questions answered and felt good at the end of the meeting.
Monday, July 21, 2008
Sports in Hamilton this Weekend
Our Auckland team were invited to compete against the Waikato wheelchair sports group in Hamilton this weekend. Yesterday only four of us, out of the eight players in the Auckland team went to Hamilton. Dad arrived to pick me up at 9.30am and off we went to Hamilton in the lovely wet weather!! It rained most of the way, some heavy spells of rain too. We got there early enough to have some lunch. I was glad to find two disabled toilets there, each had a rail on either the left or right side.
Playing Hockey
We played hockey first and it was a lot of fun even though the gym was tiny. Auckland team took the win of 2-0. The Waikato players did pretty well and it was good to meet up with them. They are a younger group of players than our group.
Playing Balloon Soccer
We them had a quick game of balloon soccer and that was a crazy game as the Waikato team kept taking the balloon down our end and scoring for us heheh. We did score a couple of our own goals though XD
It was great to finally be able to compete as an Auckland team instead of splitting up the team to practice against each other.
After playing some sports we headed off to an Foocie opening and to welcome the new Muscular Dystrophy Northern Waikato Field Worker, as well as afternoon tea for everyone. I had a nice hot cup of tea and some choco cake. I took more photos and talked to people. Dad and I left about 3.10pm and headed back to Auckland. We stopped at Bombay rest area and had some food and a drink at AUTOBAHM Cafe then home. I enjoyed the day out.
Playing Hockey
We played hockey first and it was a lot of fun even though the gym was tiny. Auckland team took the win of 2-0. The Waikato players did pretty well and it was good to meet up with them. They are a younger group of players than our group.
Playing Balloon Soccer
We them had a quick game of balloon soccer and that was a crazy game as the Waikato team kept taking the balloon down our end and scoring for us heheh. We did score a couple of our own goals though XD
It was great to finally be able to compete as an Auckland team instead of splitting up the team to practice against each other.
After playing some sports we headed off to an Foocie opening and to welcome the new Muscular Dystrophy Northern Waikato Field Worker, as well as afternoon tea for everyone. I had a nice hot cup of tea and some choco cake. I took more photos and talked to people. Dad and I left about 3.10pm and headed back to Auckland. We stopped at Bombay rest area and had some food and a drink at AUTOBAHM Cafe then home. I enjoyed the day out.
Friday, July 11, 2008
iPod Nana 4GB Arrived
I pulled my curtains open this morning and found a big brown box at my door *knows exactly what it was* :) Opened the box to find my iPod Nano in there in it's small box.
Inside box I got: iPod nano, earphones and USB 2.0 cable, dock adapter and Quick Start guide.
Goes to open it all up and try add some music and photos.
Inside box I got: iPod nano, earphones and USB 2.0 cable, dock adapter and Quick Start guide.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
RSS FeedBurner Added
Monday, July 07, 2008
Lost orca needs public's help
Aucklanders can help to save a healthy but confused killer whale today by keeping an eye out for the lost orca.
Washed up on the city's west coast on Friday and relaunched on the east coast's Takapuna Beach on Saturday, the orca was spotted high up the inner Waitemata Harbour's Henderson Creek yesterday by a pair of kayakers. Orca Research staff responded, with police, coastguard and boaties, to try to shepherd the juvenile 4-year-old female to the Hauraki Gulf. But boat traffic, especially from ferries, further confused the whale, Orca Research Trust founder Dr Ingrid Visser told the Herald. Time and again people lining Tank Farm's Wynyard Pt watched the orca head out towards the Hauraki Gulf, shepherded by the small flotilla, only to double back towards the Harbour Bridge when a ferry came near. "Every time we get her lined up, another ferry comes past. And they are very acoustic animals. So every time [a ferry] goes past it has a huge effect." The whale was lost, but not unhealthy, Dr Visser said, and its behaviour indicated it had every chance of survival if it could make it to the city's nearest orca pod - thought to be just off Waiheke Island last night.
The juvenile orca is believed to be healthy, despite its recent adventures. Photo / Richard Robinson
The orca's harbour excursion did not prove the decision to launch it from the east coast was wrong, despite stranding on the west, Dr Visser said. "The thing that we were really concerned about was that she was very traumatised about getting caught up in the surf. She is very young, and very disoriented. The Manukau Bar is a pretty gnarly bar, and the weather yesterday was atrocious." Trying to launch the whale on the west coast would almost certainly have left it stricken again, she said.
The orca's beaching did not prove it was unwell, Dr Visser said. New Zealand had the highest rate of orca strandings in the world, about one a year, mostly from hunting errors. Orca hunted stingray, often into very shallow water, and juveniles sometimes came in too far, she said. "But we've spent about five hours with her and she's still swimming very strongly. She's just a bit disoriented as to how to get out. And that's understandable. She doesn't have a map in her head of the harbour. Normally she has her family to tell her where to go."
Taken from NZ Hearld
Washed up on the city's west coast on Friday and relaunched on the east coast's Takapuna Beach on Saturday, the orca was spotted high up the inner Waitemata Harbour's Henderson Creek yesterday by a pair of kayakers. Orca Research staff responded, with police, coastguard and boaties, to try to shepherd the juvenile 4-year-old female to the Hauraki Gulf. But boat traffic, especially from ferries, further confused the whale, Orca Research Trust founder Dr Ingrid Visser told the Herald. Time and again people lining Tank Farm's Wynyard Pt watched the orca head out towards the Hauraki Gulf, shepherded by the small flotilla, only to double back towards the Harbour Bridge when a ferry came near. "Every time we get her lined up, another ferry comes past. And they are very acoustic animals. So every time [a ferry] goes past it has a huge effect." The whale was lost, but not unhealthy, Dr Visser said, and its behaviour indicated it had every chance of survival if it could make it to the city's nearest orca pod - thought to be just off Waiheke Island last night.
The juvenile orca is believed to be healthy, despite its recent adventures. Photo / Richard Robinson
The orca's harbour excursion did not prove the decision to launch it from the east coast was wrong, despite stranding on the west, Dr Visser said. "The thing that we were really concerned about was that she was very traumatised about getting caught up in the surf. She is very young, and very disoriented. The Manukau Bar is a pretty gnarly bar, and the weather yesterday was atrocious." Trying to launch the whale on the west coast would almost certainly have left it stricken again, she said.
The orca's beaching did not prove it was unwell, Dr Visser said. New Zealand had the highest rate of orca strandings in the world, about one a year, mostly from hunting errors. Orca hunted stingray, often into very shallow water, and juveniles sometimes came in too far, she said. "But we've spent about five hours with her and she's still swimming very strongly. She's just a bit disoriented as to how to get out. And that's understandable. She doesn't have a map in her head of the harbour. Normally she has her family to tell her where to go."
Taken from NZ Hearld
Sunday, July 06, 2008
Icy Blast
Talk about cold!!! It's been very cold this month with icy blasts of wind, hail, lot's of thunder n lightening and rain, oh and snow in some areas. Some areas have had hail as big as marbles cover there lawns and the roads creating bad conditions.
There was lots of thunder and lightening, in fact there was more than 3000 lightning strikes that hit New Zealand. The icy blast is meant to clear over the next week. I hope it does.
The coldest spell this year are: temperatures in Auckland fell to just 6 degrees at lunchtime, 10 degrees in Wellington, and Dunedin had a high of 4 degrees. So you can see how cold it's been. Over night temperatures in Auckland fell to a low of 8 degrees and over the next week they could fall as low as 5 degrees. I think I will add more blankets on my bed as I can't sleep when I get cold. Saturday was Auckland's coldest day of 2008.
Snow clouds, yes snow clouds were seen over Auckland city on Saturday!!! I read in the NZ Hearld that 'If Sky Tower was 3 times its height it would be snowing on the top', imginae that happening hehe.
There was lots of thunder and lightening, in fact there was more than 3000 lightning strikes that hit New Zealand. The icy blast is meant to clear over the next week. I hope it does.
The coldest spell this year are: temperatures in Auckland fell to just 6 degrees at lunchtime, 10 degrees in Wellington, and Dunedin had a high of 4 degrees. So you can see how cold it's been. Over night temperatures in Auckland fell to a low of 8 degrees and over the next week they could fall as low as 5 degrees. I think I will add more blankets on my bed as I can't sleep when I get cold. Saturday was Auckland's coldest day of 2008.
Snow clouds, yes snow clouds were seen over Auckland city on Saturday!!! I read in the NZ Hearld that 'If Sky Tower was 3 times its height it would be snowing on the top', imginae that happening hehe.
2008 Philips Tri Nations
Thought I'd keep a score table here for the 2008 Philips Tri Nations. Last night New Zealand All Blacks played against South Africa and it was a pretty tight game for awhile but the All Blacks took the win.
05 July | New Zealand vs South Africa | Wellington | Result: 19-8
12 July | New Zealand vs South Africa | Dunedin | Result: 28-30
19 July | Australia vs South Africa | Perth | Result: 16-9
26 July | Australia vs New Zealand | Sydney | Result: 34-19
02 August | New Zealand vs Australia | Auckland | Result: 39-10
17 August | South Africa vs New Zealand | Cape Town | Result: 0-19
24 August | South Africa vs Australia | Durban, SA | Result: 15-27
31 August | South Africa vs Australia | Johannesburg | Result: 53-8
13 September | Australia vs New Zealand | Brisbane | Result: 24-28
05 July | New Zealand vs South Africa | Wellington | Result: 19-8
12 July | New Zealand vs South Africa | Dunedin | Result: 28-30
19 July | Australia vs South Africa | Perth | Result: 16-9
26 July | Australia vs New Zealand | Sydney | Result: 34-19
02 August | New Zealand vs Australia | Auckland | Result: 39-10
17 August | South Africa vs New Zealand | Cape Town | Result: 0-19
24 August | South Africa vs Australia | Durban, SA | Result: 15-27
31 August | South Africa vs Australia | Johannesburg | Result: 53-8
13 September | Australia vs New Zealand | Brisbane | Result: 24-28
Saturday, July 05, 2008
Whale rescue mission at Takapuna beach
I was off to Albany shopping mall this morning with Mum and Dad and I can't believe what I saw, as we were driving onto the Western motorway, an Orca Whale on a trailer alive!! I have never seen this before and it made me think of the movie 'Free Willy' which is about freeing an Orca whale, a movie I really enjoyed too. Here is the story below...
Whale rescue mission at Takapuna beach
The latte-drinking cafe set along Takapuna Rd had probably never seen anything like it. Moving along the road at a gentle pace towards Takapuna Beach was a 3.4-metre Orca whale on the back of a trailer. And no less than the son and grandson of the late ocean explorer Jacques Cousteau were among onlookers who got a close-up view of the dramatic whale rescue at the North Shore Beach today.
An unusual sight at the Takapuna boat ramp this morning. Photo / Herald on Sunday
The whale first became stranded yesterday at Huia beach, west of Auckland. In an unusual move, the whale was transported today by road to be released off the North Shore beach. The whale was described as a 3.4 metre juvenile female of about three years old and had seen beached since 3pm yesterday. It was looked after overnight by Project Jonah and Department of Conservation staff.
Department spokesman Bill Trusewich said the whale was small enough to be handled and a decision was made this morning to move it by trailer to Takapuna, on Auckland's North Shore. The reason was that the waters would be calmer at Takapuna than at Huia. The 43km journey took about 90 minutes. Department spokesman Bill Trusewich said the whale appeared to be in good health during the whole episode.
Jean-Michel Cousteau and son Fabien, who are guests of New Zealand orca researcher Ingrid Visser, are in New Zealand shooting footage for a television programme.
Taken from NZ Hearld
My day at Albany was great and did some shopping and looked around the shops. We had a yummy lunch with some wine..of course :)
Whale rescue mission at Takapuna beach
The latte-drinking cafe set along Takapuna Rd had probably never seen anything like it. Moving along the road at a gentle pace towards Takapuna Beach was a 3.4-metre Orca whale on the back of a trailer. And no less than the son and grandson of the late ocean explorer Jacques Cousteau were among onlookers who got a close-up view of the dramatic whale rescue at the North Shore Beach today.
An unusual sight at the Takapuna boat ramp this morning. Photo / Herald on Sunday
The whale first became stranded yesterday at Huia beach, west of Auckland. In an unusual move, the whale was transported today by road to be released off the North Shore beach. The whale was described as a 3.4 metre juvenile female of about three years old and had seen beached since 3pm yesterday. It was looked after overnight by Project Jonah and Department of Conservation staff.
Department spokesman Bill Trusewich said the whale was small enough to be handled and a decision was made this morning to move it by trailer to Takapuna, on Auckland's North Shore. The reason was that the waters would be calmer at Takapuna than at Huia. The 43km journey took about 90 minutes. Department spokesman Bill Trusewich said the whale appeared to be in good health during the whole episode.
Jean-Michel Cousteau and son Fabien, who are guests of New Zealand orca researcher Ingrid Visser, are in New Zealand shooting footage for a television programme.
Taken from NZ Hearld
My day at Albany was great and did some shopping and looked around the shops. We had a yummy lunch with some wine..of course :)
Monday, June 30, 2008
WOAH!!!
WOAH!!! I just won an iPod 4GB Nano :)
See my review below by clicking on the link
The winner of walkingisoverrated.com’s first ever iPod nano competition is…
Jenny Smyth!
For her fantastic review of Auckland’s Sylvia Park Mall.
Congratulations Jenny, I’ll be in touch shortly to send out your prize!
To all those that entered, thank you so much, and don’t feel too bummed - there’s a new iPod competition starting next week! Stay tuned!
See my review below by clicking on the link
Review: Sylvia Park Mall, Auckland
Friday, June 27, 2008
Poly-Emp Meeting (Job Support)
I decided to give Poly-Emp a go and get them to help find me some employment. We meet up this afternoon and discussed what jobs I'm interested in, what skills I have to offer, hours of work and lots of other things. M explained to me what Poly-Emp does and got me to fill out a form. Poly-Emp helps those with Intellectual Disabilities so I will be a challenge to them as I have a Physical Disability. S was there as she will be my support person and helping me find a job. S took a lot of notes and will contact me later. We came up with two goals/plans...
Short Term Goal - Look for a job that I can do at home for 4-6hrs a week. Jobs like typing up Medical reports, teacher reports etc anything I can do from home.
Long Term Goal - Look for a job that I can do out of home, up to 15hrs a week and maybe have some hrs to work from home.
Overall the meeting went well and S will check out the local schools and a few other places I suggested.
Short Term Goal - Look for a job that I can do at home for 4-6hrs a week. Jobs like typing up Medical reports, teacher reports etc anything I can do from home.
Long Term Goal - Look for a job that I can do out of home, up to 15hrs a week and maybe have some hrs to work from home.
Overall the meeting went well and S will check out the local schools and a few other places I suggested.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
It's been Cold
It's been very cold over the last couple day's with strong winds, heavy rain and some hail. I was out and about in the cold wind yesterday morning then I went inside Henderson's Westfield mall and warmed up a bit. I did go out in the cold again to get to another lot of shops but missed the heavy down pours of rain.
Today I'm just surfing the net and chatting to friends and keeping warm. It's only showers today but it's still cold.
Today I'm just surfing the net and chatting to friends and keeping warm. It's only showers today but it's still cold.
Saturday, June 21, 2008
New Washing Machine
The other day my washing machine didn't get to finish it's load. I has turned the machine on, it started filling up with water as normal then the machine made a noise and stopped. I tried every thing and nothing got it going, let alone being able to open the door to get my washing out. Someone came out to look at it and said the drum had rusted through along with a hole in it :o and many other problems. He managed to get the door open so I could get my washing out, which I got washed next door. It was time for a new washing machine.
Old Simpson 5.5kg
I got a 7kg Samsung front loader washing machine and it was delivered and set-up this morning. The guy took away my old machine which was good.
Old Simpson 5.5kg
I got a 7kg Samsung front loader washing machine and it was delivered and set-up this morning. The guy took away my old machine which was good.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Orthotic Centre
I went to the Orthotic Centre with mum today to sort out some winter shoes for me. I'm going to get the same shoes made as last time, those were made in 2004. The new shoes will be leather and have baby wool inside to keep my feet warm. But sadly I was told they won't be finished till September when Winter is almost over!! But guess I will have them for next winter.
I need to keep my feet warm as I get chillblains on my toes and they are quite sore. I had these over the last 2 years and thought they were pressure ulcers, but looks like they are chillblains.
Once I get my winter shoes done, they will make me another pair of shoes for everyday wear, like the ones I wear now.
Mum and I went to Slyvia Park for lunch and some shopping after.
I need to keep my feet warm as I get chillblains on my toes and they are quite sore. I had these over the last 2 years and thought they were pressure ulcers, but looks like they are chillblains.
Once I get my winter shoes done, they will make me another pair of shoes for everyday wear, like the ones I wear now.
Mum and I went to Slyvia Park for lunch and some shopping after.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
2008 Iveco Series All Blacks vs England
Last night my brother and I went to the All Blacks vs England game and what a game it was!!
I totally loved the game and whole outing, Eden Park was fully seated too. Loads more people there making it hard to get to our seat, but we got there and stayed. My friend Richie and his carer and other friends I knew were all there too. It wasn't as cold either, which was good.
All Blacks take the win 37-20
Dan Carter (Dan the man) set up a tri and kicked all the conversions, he got lots of points
07 June | All Blacks vs Ireland | Wellington | Result: 21-11
14 June | All Blacks vs England | Auckland | Result: 37-20 (I went too)
21 June | All Blacks vs England | Christchurch | Result: 44-12
03 September | All Blacks vs Samoa | New Plymouth | Result: 101-14
More about the game here
I totally loved the game and whole outing, Eden Park was fully seated too. Loads more people there making it hard to get to our seat, but we got there and stayed. My friend Richie and his carer and other friends I knew were all there too. It wasn't as cold either, which was good.
All Blacks take the win 37-20
Dan Carter (Dan the man) set up a tri and kicked all the conversions, he got lots of points
07 June | All Blacks vs Ireland | Wellington | Result: 21-11
14 June | All Blacks vs England | Auckland | Result: 37-20 (I went too)
21 June | All Blacks vs England | Christchurch | Result: 44-12
03 September | All Blacks vs Samoa | New Plymouth | Result: 101-14
More about the game here
Friday, June 13, 2008
Leon Baker Passed
I got some really sad news this morning, that my long time friend Leon baker passed away last night around 7pm :( I've known Leon for the past 19 years and have lots of memorys. Leon was 32yrs and had Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy which is a progressive disease that get's worse as he grows older.
I will miss you Leon and your in my heart forever:)
I will miss you Leon and your in my heart forever:)
Thursday, June 05, 2008
Power Module and Other Parts Arrived for my TDX 5 - Update
After talking to a Eddy at Invacare we got things sorted.
Just a Record For Myself. The below solved the 'Press Reset' problem on my TDX 5.
To use Tilt/Recline and Elevating leg rests via the joystick in Drive 4, I did the below settings...
Drive 4
No Driving - ON
Tilt/Recline - 4-SWITCH
Standby Mode - OFF
Standby Select - OFF
(I can still use my Single Toggle Switch for Tilt/Recline while I'm driving as well as no driving)
To have the Standby Time option, working in Drive 1, Drive 2 and Drive 3, I did the below settings...
Drive 1
Standby Select - ON
Standby Time - 1205%
Drive 2
Standby Select - ON
Standby Time - 1205%
Drive 3
Standby Select - ON
Standby Time - 1205%
I'm going to now add ALL the settings in each drive on my settings spreadsheet, for future reference
Just a Record For Myself. The below solved the 'Press Reset' problem on my TDX 5.
To use Tilt/Recline and Elevating leg rests via the joystick in Drive 4, I did the below settings...
Drive 4
No Driving - ON
Tilt/Recline - 4-SWITCH
Standby Mode - OFF
Standby Select - OFF
(I can still use my Single Toggle Switch for Tilt/Recline while I'm driving as well as no driving)
To have the Standby Time option, working in Drive 1, Drive 2 and Drive 3, I did the below settings...
Drive 1
Standby Select - ON
Standby Time - 1205%
Drive 2
Standby Select - ON
Standby Time - 1205%
Drive 3
Standby Select - ON
Standby Time - 1205%
I'm going to now add ALL the settings in each drive on my settings spreadsheet, for future reference
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
Power Module and Other Parts Arrived for my TDX 5
The 'MK5 Power Module' that was ordered on May 9th and it arrived and was put on my TDX 5 today. The tech calibrated the HDTTGB motors as I asked for them to be done.
I was able to reprogram my settings back into the PM with my programmer. I have all my settings on a spreadsheet even the Standby settings. I set Standby Mode ON in all 4 drives, then I was able to set the Standby Time. After doing this I ran into the problem of 'Press Reset' on my LCD. I then turned Standby mode OFF in all 4 drives again and was able to move. Standby in ECU was ON, can't remember if this was ON or OFF or even recall having this setting but I left that.
Drive 4 is for Tilt/Recline via the joystick as well as elevating leg rests. I use the single toggle switch mostly for Tilt/Recline instead of via the joystick. At the moment Drive 4 is drive-able and I can't use 'powered seating' via joystick. I'm guessing I need to turn the Tilt/Recline setting ON so I can use those via the joystick as well as my toggle switch. I'm hoping by turning Tilt/recline ON will also enable me to use the joystick for the elevating leg rests which is left/right via joystick.
I'm going to ring Invacare tech tomorrow to see what I need to do.
I also got some new tread/foam filled tires and new arm pads arrived. One arm pad went on and I made sure that the arm pad wasn't moving an inch. The tech didn't use the new screws either, just the current screws that were used on the old arm pads. I've had issues with these arm pads before. The tech put them on, then the next day the screw fell out, then the tech arrived to screw it back in, then the following weekend the screw and arm pad came completely off on both sides. If this happens again, I will be really frustrated. The right side arm pad needs to go back to the workshop and a new hole drilled (tappered or something, they call it) so the arm pad sits foward more. I really dislike the way the arm pads go on the arm rests, there is no 'adjustability' for the arm pads and it's very annoying.
Apart from that my TDX is all good... Time to clean my chair I think HA
I was able to reprogram my settings back into the PM with my programmer. I have all my settings on a spreadsheet even the Standby settings. I set Standby Mode ON in all 4 drives, then I was able to set the Standby Time. After doing this I ran into the problem of 'Press Reset' on my LCD. I then turned Standby mode OFF in all 4 drives again and was able to move. Standby in ECU was ON, can't remember if this was ON or OFF or even recall having this setting but I left that.
Drive 4 is for Tilt/Recline via the joystick as well as elevating leg rests. I use the single toggle switch mostly for Tilt/Recline instead of via the joystick. At the moment Drive 4 is drive-able and I can't use 'powered seating' via joystick. I'm guessing I need to turn the Tilt/Recline setting ON so I can use those via the joystick as well as my toggle switch. I'm hoping by turning Tilt/recline ON will also enable me to use the joystick for the elevating leg rests which is left/right via joystick.
I'm going to ring Invacare tech tomorrow to see what I need to do.
I also got some new tread/foam filled tires and new arm pads arrived. One arm pad went on and I made sure that the arm pad wasn't moving an inch. The tech didn't use the new screws either, just the current screws that were used on the old arm pads. I've had issues with these arm pads before. The tech put them on, then the next day the screw fell out, then the tech arrived to screw it back in, then the following weekend the screw and arm pad came completely off on both sides. If this happens again, I will be really frustrated. The right side arm pad needs to go back to the workshop and a new hole drilled (tappered or something, they call it) so the arm pad sits foward more. I really dislike the way the arm pads go on the arm rests, there is no 'adjustability' for the arm pads and it's very annoying.
Apart from that my TDX is all good... Time to clean my chair I think HA
Saturday, May 24, 2008
Got a Hard drive for Backups
I went into DickSmith and I asked the guy about who I can talk to about HDDs and then I released it was my Mac friend Matt who used to work at JB HI FI. I was so happy as I knew he'd be able to recommend what I need, he uses Mac too.
So after 3 weeks or so researching Hard drive's (HDD) I bought a Western Digital 500GB My Book Studio Edition. I feel relieved now as it's hard finding out all the information and getting the right equipment HAHA!!
Matt also said that the My Book HDD that I bought was newer model than the one he got from JB and mine is much smaller.
It took minutes to setup, power in, Firewire 800 in and plugged into iMac. I just need to set it up to backup tonight....will udate.
UPDATE: I've completed my first backup and it only took *wait for it* 31 minutes!!
I only had 19.42GB used and Time Machine says it was backing up 790.683 items WOW that's a lot, more than I thought I actually had. It does backups every hour, just any new changes.
So after 3 weeks or so researching Hard drive's (HDD) I bought a Western Digital 500GB My Book Studio Edition. I feel relieved now as it's hard finding out all the information and getting the right equipment HAHA!!
Matt also said that the My Book HDD that I bought was newer model than the one he got from JB and mine is much smaller.
It took minutes to setup, power in, Firewire 800 in and plugged into iMac. I just need to set it up to backup tonight....will udate.
UPDATE: I've completed my first backup and it only took *wait for it* 31 minutes!!
I only had 19.42GB used and Time Machine says it was backing up 790.683 items WOW that's a lot, more than I thought I actually had. It does backups every hour, just any new changes.
Friday, May 23, 2008
Speakeres are setup
I now have a set of Logitech X - 530 Speaker's setup around my iMac:XD and they are loud!!
A friend of mine got the latest set of these so gave me his speakers. You should see the Sub on that set, it's freakin HUGE!! and the sound is even loader.
He's handing me his old Sony 26" TV too so I be able to put that into my bedroom. He got a 26" LG LCD Tv and has hooked it up to his pc and it's an awesome setup.
A friend of mine got the latest set of these so gave me his speakers. You should see the Sub on that set, it's freakin HUGE!! and the sound is even loader.
He's handing me his old Sony 26" TV too so I be able to put that into my bedroom. He got a 26" LG LCD Tv and has hooked it up to his pc and it's an awesome setup.
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Rugby Super 14
I went to the last four Blue's games at Eden park with my brother Ben and I loved the whole outing. The amphispere at the rugby was awesome and the games were tense too. The Blue's actually won 3 of those games and some of them had nail bitting endings which made it more exciting!! The disabled area in the ASB Stadium is great, security was great too and the food stalls, bar and cafe were all accessible.
Blues vs Stormers 17-14
Blues vs Bulls 23-21
Blues vs Brumbies 11-16
Blues vs Hurricanes 19-17
Blues vs Stormers 17-14
Blues vs Bulls 23-21
Blues vs Brumbies 11-16
Blues vs Hurricanes 19-17
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