Merry Christmas!

Happy Christmas everyone!!

Well here I am, sitting at my family Christmas party surrounded by many of my aunties/uncles and cousins. How I love the family and the time we spend together.

Tonight as usual at the yearly party, there's plenty of games and quizzes for everyone to join in as they wish. I won the quiz thingy (with the help of my dear cousin.)

The party is traditional for us as a family to help remember my grandparents who started the parties as there were too many grandchildren to buy presents for etc. It's a lovely way to keep them alive in our hearts and memory.

So far, my Christmas has been lovely, time spent with my loved ones. My greatest present was the iPad that I got from my sister and brother-in-law which I absolutely love! Although I really like and appreciate all of my presents. :-)

Last night, my uncle arrived at my house ready for the new years' eve celebrations. Tomorrow, I will be going over to my cousin's house for a slipper and bottle of wind evening with the girls. Friday night I may be having a girls night with my friends. Then on new years eve, I'm going to a local club place where they are having a band performing which will be good. There will be my family and my dear friend. I can't wait for it!

How is your Christmas going?

See ya soon and be merry!!

Brief update

Hey everyone!

How are we all doing?

Just a few lines to share what I have been up to since my last blog post...

• Doing my fair share of partying - which include family gatherings for birthdays
• having a trip to Manchester with my sister, we went shopping and then went to watch the Dirty Dancing at The Palace Theatre. It was very good but it had a lot of scenes where it doesn't even exist on the actual film and some of the words were different (I'm a very big DD fan, know it from word to word!)
• Spending quality time with my closest friends
• Trying to rest my shoulder but also having slight problem with my knee - think I may have twisted it in bed somehow)
• Going to Hydrotherapy
• Visiting the dentist - having teeth extractions due to over-crowding (still)

That is all for now. I will keep you updated on my video diary and on my assignments too when I'm underway on them. Keep smiling everyone.

Little Miss Dinky Kt's Video Diary & Cherylee Houston (Corrie's Izzy)

Hey up peeps!

I hope you are all keeping well and having fun in whatever it is you're doing.

After a moment of watching other people with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome on videos uploaded onto YouTube, a thought popped into my head... maybe I could upload some videos about how I live with the condition? I needed time to sleep on it and think it through before I do anything, so therefore I went to bed.

The next day, I was still thinking about it but I was suprised at myself by feeling like positive about making/uploading videos. I was anxious and worrying about what people thought of the idea: what if people didn't like it or feel comfortable in watching me talking about the condition so openly.

Anyway, later that day I found myself writing down notes with some of the things I wanted to say and filmed myself. Although I did do some research first just to make sure the facts were correct. When I watched the video back, I found out a few things about myself which I wasn't necessarily aware of beforehand but this is a good way to discover these things, don't you think?

I wanted to edit and make it as good as I could before uploading it online. As my friend said "You're going to be presenting yourself to the world and saying "Hi, I'm Katie and I have Ehlers Danlos Syndrome." I didn't really think of this to be honest, it's kind of frightening but exciting that the world can see how I am and being strong at doing this project.

So on YouTube there are some video diaries that I've uploaded, I want to make awareness about Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and what it is like to live with. I never see any promotion in helping the EDS charity or just basically about the condition itself. Only recently, there is a character on the Coronation Street (Cherylee Houston who plays Izzy) who also suffers from the same condition but still they haven't gone into too much detail about it yet although I keep hoping that they will one day soon).

Cherylee Houston

http://youtu.be/fn-_cAQ4lGs << this is a link to my first diary entry. Have a look and see what you think. Let me know your thoughts and don't hestitate in asking questions etc.

Or go to: My video diary-EDS ( account username is: KatieMarieWe )

Anyhow, this is just what I wanted to share with you. I'll be with you soon, keep smiling! :-)

Hallo, I'm back!

Hiya everyone!

How are you all doing? Lately I've been on a bit of a journey to find myself once again. After having all the wedding/preparations, Take That concert and trying to get my shoulder back right again, the strain of it all left me feeling somewhat tired and lost in the world.

You kind of forget about yourself when busy doing things and having plenty of things to look forward to then you realise that there's nothing to keep you on the ground. That's not just a negative thing but also a slight positive in the way of getting to grips with reality again. I suppose if you think of it this way, like if you're a pop star being on tour for several months and when it's finished, that is the end. Like a sudden drop from the high-life, it can be a little unsettling.

I'm still having trouble with my shoulder but starting hydrotherapy in about three weeks time so hopefully that will ease it. I used to go to hydro every week back when I was in school. I gained so much benefit from it so have missed it since. (Hydrotherapy is a pool of heated water that is used for pain relief and treating illnesses.)

I've been doing lots of research for my assignment. Managed to get to the library and collected lots of printouts and photocopying which will hopefully help me with it. I decided to write an article about the gangs and youth dissillusionment which links in with riots. It's a good subject but proving to be quite a heavy and never-ending topic. I will let you know how I get on with it.

Well I've got to go now but you'll see me soon. Keep smiling! xx

Ahoy there Scousers!

When I went to Liverpool, I remember sitting on the coach looking forward to the next three days. It was for my sister's hen weekend.

During getting ready to go out for tea, my friend arrived at mine and my friend Miss Glam's hotel room. I hadn't seen Scouser for around a year or two so was mega excited to see her again!

Following instructions, the three of us met the rest of our crew; there was twenty of us altogether, I think. Everyone looked so glamourous especially my sister, who was wearing a gorgeous pink, WAG style dress. We were dining out at the Albert Dock. Very swanky! After sitting around and waiting, a waitress went to show us to our table only to realise that I couldn't get to it due to no wheelchair access so she arranged for us to go over to the sister restaurant instead. My sister was very annoyed as she told them beforehand when booking that there was a wheelchair user with us. For the next twenty minutes or more, we spent going round the outside of the docks trying to find an entrance that I could get into. I felt really bad and sorry that it was my fault that this was happening. Eventually we found a way in and went to the place where they let us have free bottles of wine compensating for what had happened. At least we got to see all around the area of the docks in a positive note! Where we were sitting was where Richard and Judy spent many years doing This Morning show on the telly. Also the meal was lovely but very filling which was worth the wait.

The next day, saturday both me and Miss Glam awoke early so we could have some dinner in town and a little wander in the shops. We decided to go to the Red Hot World Buffet restaurant in Liverpool One. I really enjoyed it in there, too much choice to choose from!! Scouser met us in there. After going in a few shops, the three of us left to go back to the hotel so we could get ready for the night out. Unfortunately, Scouser had to leave us. The theme for the night was sailor girls. Something fun and different.

We all had to meet in my sister's room, awesome how everyone looked fab in their outfits. I felt a bit insecure compared to everyone else as they all looked amazing in their little short dresses, wishing I did in something so short and revealing like them. Anyway, walking through Liverpool town centre as a group, that boosted my confidence a little, felt like a VIP with random strangers stopping to take pictures of us. That was strange but funny!

We all stayed around Concert Square which was really nice and people were so friendly. The bars were lovely too. I had a good dance with everyone of us til I worn myself out and had to sit down. We didn’t make it to any actual night clubs though unfortunately. Being on a night out in a city is completely different to when going out in a small town normally, you don’t know your way round and it is easy to get lost. Also being on a night out here in my home town, there’s always someone that you know and see so you feel kind of safe.

The next morning we had to be out of our hotel room by midday but me and Miss Glam had another priority to attend to first. Feeling tired and hungover (I don’t drink hardly so I was okay in that aspect), we were hungry so after having all our stuff to pack then get ready, went to find a local café

Sitting on the coach, I felt sad that we were leaving but glad to be going home to my comfy bed. Couldn’t wait to see my little cat, Pixie as I missed her. We had to stop as I needed some air, really didn’t feel too well due to lack of sleep and being on-the-go all weekend.

What a great weekend had by both myself and the rest of the crew! Liverpool, you were a great host showing us how friendly and lively the Liverpudlians are.

Let Me Entertain You

Hey everyone!

Today, I feel able to tell you all about when I went to Manchester. I know it was a while ago since I first mentioned it to you so FINALLY, here I am!

On the 7th June 2011, me and my dad made our way to Manchester. For once, we didn't get lost but only to spend almost an hour going up and down in the lift, trying to pay for parking. Then to discover that we didn't have to pay after all with being registered disabled! I laughed.

Later that day after having a short rest at the hotel, we left to go the stadium... yes The Stadium of Manchester City FC. On the bus, we were surrounded by women (and some men) of all ages, singing Take That songs. This caused my excitement to soar through the roof!

As we stood outside the stadium, we found ourselves to be impressed with the stadium and how it looked. Just a shame that neither of us are Man City fans hah hah!

I bought my merchandise; a t-shirt, a large poster, yellow sunglasses, a hat and a programme. This is one of my favourite bits of going to concerts, buying all the official merchandise for keep-sakes.

Next minute, we were being taken to our designated seats. "Wow" was our reaction to when we sat down as both my dad and me gazed round the stadium. We were located on the right side of the stage (or if you standing on the stage in the middle, it'd be your left) and we had a good view of the B-stage in front of us almost. Something caught my eye that was unusual but I kind of expected as saw it on a preview before leaving home... it was a massive yellow man with its hands holding the top of the stage setting. Magnificant perhaps!

First on were the Pet Shop Boys who were fab! They performed some of their major hits such as West End Girls, Go West, and many more. With them were a small handful of dancers dressed in primary coloured outfits which had blocks in them. The blocks reminded me a bit of lego bricks but without the top bits that you use to connect. I thought they looked funky although very simple. I thought the PSB were a good choice made by Take That to warm the audience up ready although they don't need any help hah hah!!

Secondly and lastly to come on were Take That. Their introduction was much more fun and anticipated... a man dressed in a professors outfit appeared with a large USB cable that he plugged into this massive pretend laptop which started a countdown. Never felt a minute last so long hah hah!! Out come are Take That... but hang on Robbie wasn't with them. The four; Gary, Howard, Jason and Mark sung their greatest hits from their previous two albums. Brilliant!! When Shine was being sung, it was an Alice in Wonderland theme and there was a caterpillar... so colourful and fun.

Of course, Robbie had his own entrance and blasted some of his biggest solo songs such as Angels, Feel and many more. When he sang Let Me Entertain You, honestly, the crowd looked like a sea of waves, it slightly made me feel queasy hah hah!

Before we knew it, all five were back on together. Then they blasted out some songs like The Flood, Happy Now, Relight My Fire and ecetera. I loved it when they did Kids... the dancers were dressed as Chess pieces and there was a dance-off between Jason and Howard. Jason was the black and Howard, the white. Obviously, I was routing for the blacks to win hah hah! ;) When the fab five had a little medley section, they took the mickey out of each other which was cute but funny. Glad that they can laugh together about their pasts with booze etc although it was a bit like 'aww' at the lads.

I'm not going to go into any more detail about the show as I think you would love it if you saw it on DVD when it comes out (21st November). A few hours later and it was finished. I was ecstatic and in awe of the lads at the show they put on their fans. 

The next day, I felt tired but excited for that evening as I was seeing Take That again. This time I was going with my cousin. Anyway, when me and my dad left the hotel to go and get some dinner, we went to the Food Court.  I finally got to eat noodles out of the cardboard boxes like they do on Friends, always wanted to do this. I needed to buy another memory card for my camera as I used the one I had filming parts of the show the previous night. The weather was gorgeous!

We arranged to meet my cousin at the same Food Court and was really happy to see her again. I miss my family when I don't get to see them that often. Like me (even though I knew what to expect, I was still excited) my cousin couldn't wait to see Take That aswel!

There was one difference from the first night was that the gigantic OM actually stood right up! Believe me... it was TALL!! Magnificent in fact! The lads didn't wear the flashing lit jackets like they did the night before, but maybe that is because the OM wasn't working properly. I looked around me at the people sitting around me and their faces were amazing to see hah hah! That was me too. :)

I got to see the full ending too... they sung Eight Letters and I filmed it. The lads went into the crowd off the B-stage collected various hats, glasses etc whilst singing. Such a lovely ending to the show, I thought.

Through the whole night, it poured it down and we were kept dry. Unfortunately, we got soaked on the way home to the hotel. It was worth getting wet though. I just wanted to go back to the stadium and watch it all again hah hah!

On the last day, I didn't want to leave to go back home. Yet on the otherhand, couldn't wait to see my videos and pictures properly! I was extremely tired but wouldn't have it any other way. Also, I came down with a sore throat but maybe that was due to two nights of singing and screaming at the concert hah hah!

Forever and ever, I'll be a Thatter! I always say to peeps, even if you are not keen on the music, you can't not love and adore the production Take That put on. They're not the fastest selling tour in UK history twice for nothing!

That's it for tonight peeps. See you soon x

Resting it up!

Hey up peeps,

This is unfortunately just a little note to say that I will not be posting a new post just yet as I have injured my good arm. I am unsure what I have done to it so planning on resting it as much as possible over the next few days.

I was planning on telling you about my trips to Manchester and Liverpool in my upcoming blog posts but as you now know, this will be delayed for the time being.

Be with you soon peeps!

Keep smiling. xxx

Quick hello

Hey-up peeps! http://www.youtube.com/user/KatieMarieWe?feature=mhee

For a little insight to what I've been up to lately, have a look on my Youtube account and watch my videos. :) I still haven't managed to tell you all about my trip to Manchester and now Liverpool but I WILL, just not yet though.

http://www.youtube.com/user/KatieMarieWe?feature=mhee

^

That is the link to my Youtube channel.

Another little thing, is that I'm currently trying to find my collection of poetry so that I can send 3 or 4 away to a poetry magazine to see if they get published. Think it's going to be a right little task trying to decide which ones to send off! I'll let you know how I get on.

You may have noticed that I have updated the layout and design of the blog, what do you think? Like or nay?

That is all for now so keep smiling won't you. :)

Madness of May!

Hey peeps,

How are ya all doing?

This past month has been a little hectic but full of fun times! First of all; I celebrated my birthday in style. I went on a night out to the pubs and clubs after having a meal at a local Italian restaurant (which was scrumptious in my opinion).  I wanted to do something a little ‘out-there’ and wacky so decided to set a theme of dressing up in 80’s glam rock style. Everyone that managed to attend the night, looked fabulous! I personally loved being able to experiment and play with my make-up; creating my crazy/over the top look. Early 80’s Madonna was my inspiration for the night, think of her ‘Lucky Star’ and ‘Desperately Seeking Susan’ era.

Still can’t believe that slowly before my very own eyes, I’m getting closer to being thirty.

Not only have I had my birthday celebrations, but also some personal difficult times happening too. Fortunately, I won't go into any detail about it but it has been and gone now.

A week later, I went to Manchester to be a part of something very special. This news I will be telling you all about in my next post, so keep an eye out for it soon! Then you will realise at how hectic this past month has been, ha ha!!

Don't forget that you can contact me or follow my tweets on Twitter. Just search for either my name or my username; DinkyKt.

 

Keep smiling peeps!x.x.x

An Emu legged tale

On Saturday night just gone, I went on a night out with some friends. For the first time since I was a child, I wore a pair of denim shorts and this was a difficult task for me to do. Back when I was twelve or thirteen, this lad started calling me twiggy legs as I have legs like a Daddy-Long Leg insect. Any woman will understand how such a cruel taunt can leave a negative outlook on a young growing girl as it still haunts me to this day and I’m soon to be twenty-six in two weeks time. Also now I know how immature young lads can be but it still doesn’t give him or anyone else the right to judge someone just because of how they look.

Emu legs

Regularly you see columns in glossy magazines on celebs, mocking and judging whether they are too skinny or fat... I personally think this is disgraceful and insensitive to how their columns affect someone!

We are all unique, as we all have different metabolisms but I do know that a lot of the case, like scientists say, we are what we eat. Although saying ‘we are what we eat’ I admit, I do eat cakes, chocolates and biscuits so is this necessarily true? I find it really difficult to put on weight, as recommended by dieticians, I try to eat little and often... I try not to weigh myself too often as it can cause worry. Surely, as long as we are healthy, this should be what that matters?

My shorts... can you see them? Ha ha!!

Back to the shorts I was telling you about, I was anxious about what other people thought when they saw my legs but with the reassurance of my bestie, Goth Spice and other close peeps, I put the anxieties to the back of my mind. Some of my friends even joked about if I actually had any on... ha ha!! Yes, they were super duper mini!!

So, peeps when you next wear something that shows off something you don’t feel confident about... go ahead and wear it! The majority of people don’t actually notice. Concentrate on an area that you do feel confident about and then other peeps will focus on that. That is what I aimed to do this Saturday; I made sure my eye make-up looked glamorous to distract my worries. Ignore what glossy magazines say, half of what they print is just to sell their publication... so feel good about yourself.  

P.s the only thing I didn’t like about wearing the shorts was that it was freezing ha ha!!

A poem I've just written

Hi there peeps.

For the first time in a little while, I've managed to write a poem. I am sure you will at some point be able to relate to the poem in your life.

Lately I have discovered who are true to me and who mean the world. I know a lot of people but there are a few who I treasure dearly and those are my closest pals and family. I have had to endure something that was both challenging and difficult but had to think of my sanity, trust and loyalty. This poem is my way of saying goodbye to the situation.

I hope you like reading the poem, Please let me know what you think. If you would like to read any more of my collection, please just ask.

My farewell

Laid out on the blanket in the blazing sun

I muse over the times that we shared

Together we faced the world in our way

United by laughter of randomness

Days when you lifted my spirits up

These were the yesterdays of today

In a flash you threw it all far beyond

Those words you said distressed me

The things you did that hurt me deeply

Calmly I explained the pain you caused

But you couldn’t comprehend why

Unexpectedly you came running back

Found myself agonising over it all

I just knew I couldn’t endure anymore

Like a bird flying in the bright blue sky

So this is my final farewell to you.



Funny bones!

I just want to apologise for the lack of blog updates lately peeps, I have not been too well. I have had a few appointments trying to get doctors/chiropodists to do something with my foot which has been a bit of a struggle.
For a few weeks, I have had severe pain and having difficulty walking. Knowing my own body, I knew that there was something wrong with the bone in my foot and was anxious as I've been suffering from cramps and pins and needles in the foot too. When the doctor said that it was a bunion, I was so relieved but was still upset that the doctor hadn't given me anything to help the pain or swelling. He told me to see my chiropodist which thankfully got an emergency appointment, but still, she didn't seem to know much and just said that she'll fax my doctor to arrange an x-ray. She also said that my foot was inflamed.

Still not hearing anything about the x-ray a week or more later, my mum got me in to see a duty doctor quickly, blissfully this doctor was much more helpful and understanding. She said that the foot was infected and inflamed so given me anti-biotics to help the infection and pain for over the weekend with it being Easter weekend.
On tuesday, I have to phone back the doctor to find out about where the missing fax is about the x-ray. It is really discouraging and upsetting when specialists say they'll do something straight away and then not do it.
So sometime later this week, I will let you know how I get on with this foot.

"I think you should submit it" feedback from tutor

Yesterday (saturday 2nd April 2011) I received my feedback from my course tutor. I was quite anxious although I was excited to see what she would say about my second assignment. Here's what she said...

"Hi, Katie. Thank you for sending me your second assignment - I can see that a lot of research and hard work have gone into this.

1. Fine - extensive, in-depth market research invariably pays off.

2. The outline was generally and should serve the dual purpose of helping you plan the structure of the article and giving you something to submit to an editor to intrigue them and prompt them to ask to see the finished piece.

3. Your response to question three was a lively and thought-provoking article packed with wry comments and inspiration moments. You should usually try for dramatic effect in the opening paragraphs, as you really need to grab your readers' attention at this stage, or you've lost them. You need to be more sparing in your use of exclamation marks, as using them so liberally denotes an amateur rather than a professional writer. Do bear in mind that it substantially increases your chances of being published to decide on, tone a specific publication before actually writing a piece. You can then tailor it with regard to subject, approach, length, style ,tone etc. Writing something first then looking for a market for it, is the wrong way round. I think you should submit it after another revision. Good luck and let me know how you go on.

When submitting work to editors, don't forget to put your name and the title (usually abbreviated on all but the first page) at the head of each sheet. I look forward to receiving your next assignment."

It is really constructive and helpful to read the tutors comments. My heart was pacing when I read the submitting the piece after a revision (basically just correcting a few errors) as this is a dream to see my writing in print. For her to say at this stage and remember it is only the second assignment this one, is such a brilliant encouragement and gives me total satisfaction to believe in myself.

I will let you know what happens when I send it to the publication and I hope you will enjoy, learn and find my article inspiring if you buy a copy.

The 'real wedding of 2011'

Forget the royal wedding this year... I’m talking about the real wedding of 2011; my sisters’!! The big day is 30^th July and I simply can’t wait! It took twelve years for it to happen but that’s kind of romantic, don’t you think?

I see people rush into marriage and for it to end in tatters. I personally believe that marriage is for life, ok, sometimes you have to get out but when you make that vow to one another surely you should stay to that vow? Marriage takes a lot of compromise, loyalty, trust and effort. Can you tell that when I get married (hopefully) that I will take it seriously?

I can’t tell you what the dresses are like but my sister will be the prettiest bride I’ve ever seen. It is sure to be one of the biggest weddings I will ever have attended with all the best men and guests. There will be only two bridesmaids; myself and my sisters’ friend. I was really excited when I was asked to be a bridesmaid... I have always wanted to be one. It is such an honour to be closely part of someone’s special day. For my parents wedding, I was a flower girl but I was only three years old and do not really remember much of it apart from getting carried around as I couldn’t walk yet.

It isn’t just the wedding but the organising and the hen do that I’m also looking forward to. This wedding has given me some sort of self-importance as I am involved with getting things prepared for it all. For a while, I could feel myself starting to get obsessed with weddings by watching telly programmes, reading wedding stories and looking at websites and non stop talking about ‘the wedding’ to friends! Being the good girl that I am, I haven’t let slip of any intricate details of dresses or anything that will be a surprise and not planning on letting slip.

However... all this talk of weddings has certainly made me want to get married in the future when I meet the right person. Seeing how everything gets put together has started me to gather ideas and thoughts about how I’d like my dress to look, who I’d have as bridesmaids etc. The rest will have to wait til I actually get married to decide ha ha!!

Seeing my sister walk down the aisle behind me will certainly make me very proud and witness both her and her fiance begin their next journey in life will be a moment that I won't forget. I just hope that I don't trip over mid-air and go flying down the aisle or that I have problems with my feet on the day. Although I think I will be too busy watching my sister to think of my anxieties of walking down the aisle in front of everyone but must remember for those few minutes, I walk down that it'll be my moment to build up the suspence of my sister and her dress.

So roll on July and let the ‘real wedding of 2011’ commence!!

Let Me Into Your World For You To See Mine

Looking at other people’s blogs over the past few days have somewhat made me think... I want to create more life into my own. Not only do I want for it to be about what you want to read but to show more of my personality so what do you reckon?

I want to write about topics that not only am I fascinated in but about things that inspire, stimulate new ideas/thoughts, and enlighten you! This blog isn’t just about a place to share my likes and thoughts but also to include yourself. Yes this is my world you are in but you are involved in it too, does this make sense?

This is your chance to share what you want to see and read about. Is there something you know that I absolutely love or totally detest, or simply something you would like me to research for you and share whatever that is on here?

However... I do aim to be respectful and not to be judgemental as I hope you would understand. In life, I try not to so think it is important to keep that on here too. Also, I intend to remain with the positiveness mode and not dreary in whatever way. So come on, don’t be shy peeps. Let me know what you think... remember that this blog is not just for me but for your entertainment, insight and knowledge of my life in this world.

Living Through The Words

This past week has been a week of doing my assignment. I’m doing a Comprehensive Creative Writing Course with The Writers Bureau. Comprehensive meaning that I get to cover many styles and genres such writing articles, travel pieces, writing for different audiences, and how to use techniques to help you prepare for publishing of your work.

I originally started the course early last year (2010) and successfully completed assignment 1 where I received positive feedback from my tutor although I did notice that she ‘corrected’ a name in the piece that was actually already correct. I have always been taught that if it is a name then it should start with a capital letter which is what I had done but she marked it and changed to small letter. I am guessing that she hadn’t realised this. I will be looking out for this in my future assignments feedback. From feeling slightly anxious at awaiting the feedback to what I did get back, I felt totally relieved and encouraged to carry on.

My second assignment was considerably more challenging than the first one which I expected but thankfully it all came together just this past week. I decided to write an article aiming for Love it! Publication about my life and how I’ve coped with living with E.D.S. the analysis section, I found relatively straightforward as I have had to do this whilst studying my A-Level in English Language back in 2007. It was the outline that I struggled with as I did this after I wrote the article piece. The reason for this being was that I had no quotes or facts to put in which was in the example the course gives you. Now I just hope that my tutor gives me constructive feedback, brilliant if it is positive and reasonable if it needs a little tweaking here and there.

From the time when I could read as a young child, I have loved to write. Mostly I wrote stories and plays that I would have my toys or my friends act out. It was a way of escape or merely to pass the time, not sure which it is but I know that I took pleasure in creative writing. My teachers at school used to tell my parents how I used to always just write stories and they would praise me for them. Even through during my teens, I still spent time reading and writing. However, I never showed any of my work to my teachers at seniors as I personally felt I wasn’t particularly good at anything. I was constantly told to do better with my work (whatever it was) so never dared show them my writing that I did at home. It wasn’t until I went away to Beaumont College (residential) that I began to feel confident and that I could do things competently. My friends around me also wrote, one who wrote songs and another who was poetic. This encouraged me to start showing off what I was capable of, the staff were liking my writing (which mostly consisted of poetry) and I was forever writing. Whilst there, I created my own little animation film which I wrote myself and had it on display for visitors to watch. This made me feel rather noble hearing pleasant feedback.

At this point in my life, I decided that I wanted to be a journalist. I had the notion that I was capable of writing for a publication (I was appointed as the editor of the college newsletter which was sent out of college to Scope and various other people) and it was set in an office. A few years later after studying my A-Levels, I secured myself onto a BA Hons Journalism course at a university which I was very contented with. I always dreamt of going to uni but in reality, never thought I could manage to get a place! Soon I realised that journalism wouldn’t be as straightforward as I thought it would be as you have to travel out of the office to interview people and work at a heavy schedule which was not amendable to my needs.

 So after some time out once I successfully completed all of my A-Levels, and had a thorough pondering, journalism was not for me. Somehow, I ended up being offered a place on a BA Combined Science Degree at my local college. This was to cover Sociology, Psychology and Criminology. In my head, I only applied to do a basic course on one of them courses but the tutor who interviewed me said I was too advanced. Anyway, after preparing myself for this new and unexpected adventure, I was all set to go when I found out that the college had dropped the degree course! I had to find out myself! Even my days of attending this college on a school link scheme, I hadn’t really liked it so in a way I was relieved. Then I took some time to find myself and enjoy myself for a change. Then I decided, after some research, that I would enrol on the writing course that I am now doing.

Anyway, it is time that I got back to doing some research for my assignment as I really don’t want to take ages to complete this one unlike I did on assignment 2!!

Being Bendy

For a while I’ve been wanting to explain what Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is as it is my main condition that I suffer from. I will tell you the other ones another time in a separate blog post as do not want to bore you! The information I’m about to tell you is generalised, as I luckily don’t have all of the following symptoms however I do have the majority of them though. You will see how greedy my body is!

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (E.D.S) is a varied group of heritable conditions of connective tissue, characterised by skin extensibility, joint hypermobility and tissue (nerves and muscle) fragility. There are various types of E.D.S which are classified according to symptoms and signs.

The syndrome is caused by a defect in a protein called collagen (you may have heard collagen being used in plastic surgery eg, for making the skin look younger etc). It is the main part of the body providing strength and support, such as ligaments, tendons and cartilage. When the collagen is defective, it can induce problems throughtout the body.

E.D.S can affect both males and females. It is however, quite rare. To diagnose the syndrome, a skin biopsy (a removal of a sample of tissue) and this should confirm the diagnosis and also determine the type.

Life expectancy with an E.D.S sufferer can vary on the type they have. One type, the Vascular Type can be shorter due to the rupture (burst/tear) of large blood and the major organs. Pregnancy can be life-threatening in the Classical Type and the Vascular Type.

Symptoms can also vary depending on the type. The skin can be easily torn and it is very stretchy. Folds of the skin at the inner of the eyes which make the nose look broader. The sufferer may have little lumps which develop over pressure poinys such as the elbows and knees. Varicose veins is common amongst many types of E.D.S. than in the general population.

The joints are hypermobile (double-jointed) due to the ligaments being extra elastic (stretchy). This makes them more prone to subluxation (partly) and dislocation of which is a regular occurance for the sufferer, this can happen without any trauma (unlike someone without E.D.S). There is a lot of pain and discomfort for the sufferer too.

Bruising is easily caused and doesn’t necessarily need much trauma. It tends to take longer to heal.

Less common features such as arterial, uterine and intestinal ruptures may occur due to the frailty of tissues. Inguinal (in the groin area) and hiatus (an opening in an organ for example the diaphragm) are faily common. Curvature of the spine (Scoliosis) may be present at birth or later on in life. Even gum disease can be a symptom. Gastrointestinal diverticula (the stomach and intestines) where a pouch or sac in the lining of the membrane of a hollow organ such as the intestines etc, that is produced in the bowel when the bowel muscle ruptures the bowel wall.

The treatment depends on the presenting symptoms. If simple precautionary measures are made, it will greatly lessen the chance of any trauma, scarring and bruising. Surgery and skin suture (a piece of material used to close a wound or to connect tissues) should be taken with immense care as fragile tissues may tear. Sutures ought to be left in longer than normal. The sufferer may be advised to wear supportive aids such as braces to support unstable joints. In some cases, orthopaedic surgery may be necessary but is unfortunately not always successful. Physiotherapy and occupational therapy may help.

There are also psychological problems that may occur with a E.D.S sufferer.

I am thinking of possibly doing some fundraising for the Ehlers-Danlos Support Group as I personally don’t think there is much support for this condition. I haven’t had the opportunity of meeting any other sufferers in person as it is rare. Therefore have only spoken briefly through Twitter. All of my life, I have wanted to meet someone like myself, to share stories and find out more how they cope with having E.D.S.

Half of the time, you wouldn’t even realise that I may be in pain as I smile away and trying to cope silently. It is sometimes hard for people to understand that just because they don’t see any actual physical injury on the surface so they think “what’s wrong with ya now?!” Do you get what I mean. It makes me feel lonely and anxious at times so I try to focus on other things like my family and friends. Music helps relax me and takes my mind of the pain too. I hope you would like to fund raise for the charity too.

http://www.ehlers-danlos.org/index.php?option=com_contact&task=view&contact_id=1&Itemid=11

Please contact me if you want any more information, about anything to do with me or the charity details.

Glitz and Glam

Over the past few weeks, I’ve discovered something that I used to love and somehow moved away from when growing up in my late teens. As my parents were young adolescents during the 1970’s, I grew up listening to artists that they listened to. The artists that I loved were Abba, David Bowie, Wizzard and many more. To this day, I still love them. I can’t forget Van Halen or Sir Elton John! A lot of these artists were into their make-up and fashion as we all are aware of. This is known as Glam Rock (just in case you didn’t know). Ok, Abba weren’t glam rock but their style reminds me of the theme.

Glam rock originated coming out of psychedelic and art rock era (bands such as Pink Floyd were known as psychedelic rock as well as The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix and The Byrds etc). It varied both musically and style. It is a mixture of rock and pop music. The style ranged from 1930’s Hollywood glamour, 1950’s pin-up sex appeal, sci-fi to other styles such as cabaret theatrics. Often it was seen outrageous with bright, daring make-up, platforms. The majority of the time it is seen showing sexual and ambiguity of gender.

Platform Shoe

I am glad to see that it has come back with the likes of Lady Gaga and a firm favourite of mine, Adam Lambert. I think it is fun, creative, stylish and daring to be different. Rock and pop are two of my favourite genres of music so to hear it blended... heaven to my ears!

For those of you who are asking who is Adam Lambert, he’s the runner-up in the American Idol back in 2009. You may have heard about him and his ‘controversy’ kiss with another male whilst performing on the American Music Awards, well that is him. The reason why I put it in inverted commas was because I personally don’t see it as controversial. There are far more things to worry about than two same gender people kissing. I understand to some people, they believe the Adam and Eve and that it isn’t part of the bible. I just think it is a natural thing, no matter what your sexual preferences are.  Most Adam Lambert’s fans know that he is gay and it infuriates me that people make a big deal out it. I know and I apologise for going off track, but it does relate to the glam rock in the ambiguity of gender sense. Anyway, Adam has released Whataya Want From Me, For Your Entertainment and If I Had You so far. I love how he dresses up and has an edge to his style of fashion and music. To some people, they may think he is off the wall in whatever way but I love that he is himself. He does what he wants to do.

Adam Lambert

I want to end this post on saying... be yourself, be wacky, be creative and have fun! Experiment with your clothes, make-up (for both men and women) and be a diva. Whack on some music. Lose yourself in the glam rock era and don’t be afraid to stand out from the rest of the crowd!

Fishy Time

Little did I know or plan on having my feet soaked in a warm tank full of fish?!! Yes, you got that right. Today was all about shopping and seeing what bargains I could buy not having a little fishy time!

To you and me, it’s called The Fish Tank Pedicure but it’s professional name is Ichthyotherapy. It has a long history with sufferers from Dertomology conditions/issues that are mostly used in India, Greece, Turkey, the Middle East and China.

The fish (Garra Rufa) are bred in warm water and are kept in tanks. They are scarcily fed by taking meals from the skin of people. Luckily for us, they don’t have any teeth and they suck gently. They eat the dead skin and leave it all clean and soft. In Turkey, they use the fish as a natural spa remedy and as a treatment to relieve the symptoms of skin conditions like Psoriasis and Eczema etc.

I found it a bit woo at first as they all swarmed round my first foot that I put in the tank and loved it straight away. I’d say there was probably around thirty to fourty fish in each tank. I was expecting it to pinch slightly or I just wouldn’t like it but thought it was really relaxing. I found myself giggling and laughing as it tickled me a lot! My support worker didn’t like it at first, it took her about ten minutes to get used to it and start enjoying it which was a shame as you only get fifteen minutes. Although the lass forgot to put the timer on so we had that extra bit longer which I was definatelty not complaining about!!

It was a shame we didn’t have a back rest so you could relax even more but oh well. My feet are all lovely and soft now as I get quite bad dry flaky skin. It has also eased my muscles in my feet too, like the circulation seems have to eased as well. I have Perniosis (a circulation problem in my feet where the blood spasms underneath the surface.

Would I recommend you going to try it? Yes, I would without a doubt! Take a bit time out for you to relax and let those hungry little fishies do their magic. I will definately be having another go!

Weekend Of Madness

First of all, I will tell you about Friday.

I went to Kendal with my mum, sister and the other bridesmaid for our bridesmaid dress fitting. Wow the dresses look amazing!! Royal Family eat your heart out, my sister with her wedding dress and us two, we shall be the Belles of the ball!! It was so exciting to see our dresses properly for the first time. I really can't wait to see us three all dolled up on the big day, going to be princesses. Unfortunately I had to walk quite a bit and I've suffered ever since. The thing is, it didn't just tire me out but really hurt my loose joints. I can feel the wear and tear on them and can feel them loosening out of my sockets so in my head I was hoping that they wouldn't pop out. I didn't let on how much agony I was in at the time because I didn't want to spoil the day for everyone else. Anyone else with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome would understand more.

On the Saturday, Gothgirl and her cute neice came down to mine whilst we waited for our other friend whom I still haven't thought of a name for as I want to keep my friends and family anonymous on here. Gothgirl's niece was making me laugh with some of the apps (application programs) on her iPod. I was amazed at her school renting out these gadgets as they weren't invented when I was at school which was ten years ago this coming summer. I think it's to give the more disadvantaged kiddies have a chance to have something modern and technical as their families may not be able to afford such things at home. The four of us went to the zoo which was fun! I love going there. Hand fed a black swan, one bit Gothgirl's niece finger, bless. She was fine though luckily. I got to see the Tortoises which I love, some might find them boring but they look so peaceful. Plus they go slow like me! The zoo had made a few changes, like for example, on the Jaguars/Tigers den, there was clear window thingy instead of the railings so you could see them better. It was the same with the Lions too.

We dropped the niece off on our way to our local Italian restaurant for tea. This is one of my favourite places to eat. Great food, great service and great atmosphere. I managed to eat a three course meal although as per usual, couldn't eat it all. We had a giggle and the rest of it.

Straight after eating, we went back to mine to get ready to meet our other friends back in the same Italian place. I wore my new Black and Grey jumpsuit, it's a Hareem style. Everyone loved it! I did too! It was funny seeing Gothgirl not wearing a dress. It was a good night apart from being in a lot of pain from the day before. I just wanted cuddles, I always do when in pain for some reason. We didn't get back to mine til just before five AM.

On the Sunday, I went to town with my parents to change a few things and had a McDonald's for dinner, I'm just not that into Maccys if I'm honest. Then chilled for the remainder of the day which was what I needed. I just slept through a lot of it as I was tired and still sore.

Monday was Valentines Day. Usually I'm not bothered about it with being single still but Gothgirl made it special for me. She bought me a jelly sweet ring and she had one too. I was spoilt. Lovely pairs of earrings, one set were the Eiffel Tower with ribbon bow ties on. So funky! She made me a 'K' out of Galaxy Cookie Crumble, so sweet and thoughtful. I adored this! We went back to that Italian restaurant again for a meal. Again ate a three course meal. Towards the end, I started getting a sore throat and feeling cold/shivery. Poor Gothgirl, I wasn't much entertainment at the end. Once she had gone home, I was still shivering and started getting a little headache. I had an early night to try and get warm also to sleep it off whatever it was I thought I was coming down with. I got comfy in bed and then all of a sudden, I just puked. It was weird as I didn't feel sick in the slightest. My poor mum had to help wipe it up off my cover. The last time I puked was when I was onboard the tall ship back in 2001 and that was sea sickness. At least I wasn't sickF in front of Gothgirl.

Yeah so that was my weekend. Full of fun, laughter, and tasty food which is right up my street!!