For lovers of Crown Lynn---something very special

My bother recently gave me the beautiful cup and saucer as pictured. The colours are stunning. It is a one-off design by one of those visiting artists that Crown Lynn used to employ. I can't quite read the signature on the bottom but it looks like Susan? Apparently she is still alive somewhere in Australia. I thought there would be other CL lovers who would appreciate seeing this lovely piece. (not for sale, sorry)
www.authorneilcoleman.com

Is bariatric surgery for you?

Is bariatric surgery for everyone? Is it the panacea for a ‘fat’ nation?

There are a few points one should consider before coming to any firm decisions. I cannot speak for everyone. The much vaunted adage that we should take each case on its merits holds true for me. Who am I to say that ‘you’ or a whole nation should head to the surgeon and offer up one’s body to the ‘knife’ albeit very small ones?

In New Zealand the operation can be free for those under 50 years of age, but the process is one that has many checks and balances. Various criteria operate, including having a history of trying to lose weight and related health issues, including type two diabetes, sleep apnoea, high blood pressure , compromised heart health, just to mention a few. If you are in that ‘morbid obesity’ category, that may give you reason to consider the procedure.

‘Not for me,’ you say. That’s fine. It is after all your decision, once you have satisfied the above criteria and received the big tick from a psychologist. If you have to pay, like I did, then the considerations are basically the same. I don’t know what ‘rules’ in other countries, so you will have to find out for yourself.

Given the ‘fattening’ of many nations, not just in the West, bariatric surgery is being increasingly seen as the answer to the many health issues associated with being majorly overweight. One could establish a position whereby the savings from using this procedure (there are several different ones) could be a reason for justifying the ‘state’ paying. Let’s face it; the complications resulting from obesity cost public health systems a great deal of money, for many years as an individual’s health issue become more serious. Could one justify the ‘state’ (or in my case—me, along with a little help from health insurance) paying for a one off operation (about $NZ 17,000--$21,000, depending on the procedure) in order to avoid the huge bills that are coming the way of the above systems as the population ages and ‘fattens?’

On a solely fiscally driven basis, one could say a big yes, but that is not the only consideration. There would be many who would say that other options are available; like public education about nutrition and exercise. I would say that given the long history of the ‘fat-busting’ industry and the attempts to change our collective diets, away from the sugar, fat, high carb and salt laden intakes along with a ‘sit on your butt’ mentality, then their efforts have failed miserably. There are a huge number of businesses and individuals who depend on our propensity of a large number of us to continually fail and gradually put on more weight after so many failed attempts to lose and keep weight off.

It would be a bit too radical to suggest that the above efforts should be consigned to the great big ‘bin behind the gym.’ I expect to receive hate mail from the countless thousands of people who slavishly go along several time s a week to ‘fat busters,’ weight watchers, Jenny Craig and to the many options available re exercising. If we could survey the millions around the world in an unbiased manner, I suspect that answer would be that the vast number of ‘attendees’ have failed, because more often than not, the y have reverted to their old habits. I am not going to go into the reason for this ‘massive failure.’

Anyone reading this could give examples of people they know who have been successful in their ‘journey to better health,’ but if they were really honest, and had access to real figures, they would face an unpalatable truth: failure is the norm!

So, am I just a ‘mouthpiece’ for what some would say is the ‘next big thing?’ Are we really entering a world in which one just has to submit oneself to the surgeon in order to achieve a balanced and healthy personal health regime? I would hope not. I still say it is better to prevent obesity and to be successful in this there are many considerations, many of which most governments around the world are unwilling to confront. We have heard of ‘fat taxes,’ public health initiatives aimed at getting us moving and making better food choices, but we still see the population becoming fatter as we move away from good home cooked meals and become more sedentary in our employment and our social activities.

Unless we grapple with the huge challenge that our modern way of living has delivered to us, then we are indeed going to need to look for ‘quick fixes,’ some of which may have ramifications down the track that consign humans to a questionable future. For me, my discussion has so far been one that I can embrace, but if I ‘knew then what I have since learned,’ I wonder if I would have ever arrived at my ‘new me.’ That said---I am happy. Would you be? I don’t know---I am not you!’

www.authorneilcoleman.com

 

Spread the joy, Eden Coffee

Today I purchased my weekly addiction from Eden Coffee, on Mt Eden Road. I also picked up some wicked drinking chocolate (well it must be because it's called Evil Child!)  I always enjoy going to pick up my coffee beans, not because I know they are damned good, but because the welcome is so genuine. The guy remembers me and even seems to know what I brought last time. He offers advice and encourages me to try something else in the range. It seems that I have settled for a medium strength version. I don't know why, but my tastes have changed since my operation; not just with coffee, but also food.
Today was special. I was feeling good anyway because it is the start of the holidays for me and the sun was shining. I had taken Perdy for a walk on the 'Big King Reserve,' so Perdy was happy too.
While I was contemplating my choice I entered into my normal chat with the 'host' (because that's what it feels like) and another customer. The atmosphere was most convivial.
A new customer came in for his 'morning shot' and when he went to pay for it, our host said, 'It's on the house.' Another customer had 'forward paid' for the coffee. It's a sort of 'what goes around, comes around' thing, only with coffee, whereby if you want, you can pay for someone who you don't know to have a freebie.
The customer's face dropped, as if he didn't believe it and when our host explained the 'tradition' his face at first looked incredulous and then happy. The smile said it all.
When I paid my bill for the coffee beans, the incredible drinking chocolate (Our hosts explained a few versions of how to get the best out of it) I decided to 'forward pay' for the next person who came in with a 'big smile.' Our host and I decided to call it the 'forward smile' coffee. I can't wait to hear next time I go in (that will be during the week, now that I am on holiday), who received my gift.
I left with a huge smile on my face.
www.authorneilcoleman.com

When is it OK for our Governments to spy on us?

Le's take the emotion out of the debate about governments spying on their people. Yes, that's a tall order and one cannot help but 'titsy' when thinking about the prospect, especially if you are generally following the laws of your country and don't belong to an extreme group, promulgating the violent overthrow of your government. Hey, if we don't like our government, at least we can biff them out for the next 'same as ,same as version at the three yearly election cycle in New Zealand. I guess the same can be said for most so-called 'democracies.'
What we don't want is the Arab Spring' solution or the Syrian mess. Having said the above, then even in our country, there is a need for the 'State' to be looking over our shoulders and seeking out those who would endanger the fabric of our society and to go about everyday life in a safe manner.
 BUT----where do we draw the line? The scatter-gun approach of vast computer systems sifting through every email and cell phone conversation represents either our imaginations going 'psyhco' or an actual impossibility----- I don't know what the capacity of our government is to achieve anything like what I have intimated. Perhaps the government agencies of the bigger powers can achieve that, but unless there is a link (and that has been strongly suggested) between our GSCB and the CIA and other agencies world wide, then are we overacting?
I simply don't know and the large majority of NZers and citizens of most countries don't give a thought to what 'could' be happening.
Why is it then that I have this uncomfortable feeling that we are being watched? Does that spring from me reading too many blogs and Facebook snippets from people who 'possibly' know what is actually going on? I DON'T BLOODY KNOW!
I want to live in a peaceful society, protected from criminals, drug dealers, purveyors of hate, terrorists and nasty racists groups. If that takes some sort of 'surveillance,' then maybe, just maybe, I can live with that. My question and discomfort comes from---'who decides who is to be spied on and how are they going to achieve this? Who is going the watch the 'watchers?' There are numerous questions and fears that need to be allayed. Who can we trust to answer these issues?
Maybe it is us, the huge number of people on the 'web' who can keep expressing our thoughts---but these thoughts must be transferred into action.
If we have leaders who cynically dismiss our opinions, then that is where the danger is amplified. If we take a way the more ridiculous claims that some of us may be making, then we are left with real unanswered questions. That is why we need the 'whistle blowers' and unless they actually endanger their countries (the definition of that is questionable to say then least) then they are providing us with a service. That does not necessarily make them 'traitors' as the USA Government would claim about Snowden and company.
I know my arguments have rambled through the difficult minefield that 'to spy or not to spy,' represents, but once again, I call for balance. Let's keep the discussion, ranging from the cynical to the downright funny, then, yes talk, chat, discuss, enlighten and take the piss.' All is good in my opinion and as that 'dude' on RT says, 'And that's just my opinion.'
www.authorneilcoleman.com

Sky City Casino says it is being victimized! That's a bit rich, coming from the great syringe/prick in the sky!

What a pathetic response we have read in the Herald today from a chief executive representing Sky City. I won’t say his name so that I don’t cause him more embarrassment. He says that the issue has become highly politicised and that the critics are just trying to make political capital. OK, not his exact words, but perhaps he needs to realize that the National Party, his good friend, is indeed politicising this issue for its own advantage. Hey---every sector group, on either side of the debate does that and even I accept that. So, Mr executive dude---get real!

I am deeply sorry that this convention centre is being forced on us merely to satisfy the whims of John Key and his mates, who no doubt will be the major beneficiaries of this dirty deal. The rest of us will pay for the social costs because there is no such thing as a free lunch when it comes to gambling in all of its modes. I go along with Lotto because I know that a great deal of money goes back into the community. No doubt Mr Executive will claim the same about Sky City, conveniently forgetting the massive tax breaks his company receives, from the rest of us.

I am not saying Auckland should not have a modern and world-class conference centre, but please---- find a more moral way to pay for it!

www.authorneilcoleman.com

Predictable pack of pricks---the national Party and their shameful deal!

What more can I say about this spineless morally deficient party and their bully of a Prime Minister!
Why did they bother to support a move that the vote for the Conference Centre  was going to be a 'conscience vote? What a piteous excuse for democracy. Sure party politics is a reality but in a conscious vote, one would expect a little more lassitude. Before you say---'What about Labour?' Well at least their leader, the much maligned David Shearer, had the decency to announce that his members could vote as they saw fit. John Banks and his non party sided with the Government and the soon to be gone Peter Dunne licked up large.
 I see on the news tonight that Peter Dunne's electoral office was the target of a hoax bomb. I don't condone hat but it indicates the level of disquiet in his electorate.
We need to remember this latest cynical action the part of National and its lackeys at the election next year. Labour, for it's part must put aside it's internal (or do I mean 'eternal') fighting and get alongside the Greens and deliver us a better future. New Zealand First will of course go along with what ever its flamboyant leader decides. As for the Maori Party---well maybe Hone will be in charge by then and at least with him, we know where he stands!
Angry words? Yes, because I care about where we are heading. Left wing utterances, I hear. BS----It just looks that way because the direction we are heading is closer and closer to one where the gap between the rich (the top 5%) and rest of us is deeply worrying. Kohn Kay is but a tool for those who wish us to be docile acceptors of this sad future. Behind that smile is a man taking us to an unpleasant future. If we don't care, we get what we deserve. If we don't act, the we deserve what we get.
www.authorneilcoleman.com

Gays not welcome says a Whangarei lodge, 'but we are sorry.' Really?

Some battles are just not worth fighting. Take for example the Whangarie lodge that has made it clear that they do not want gay couples staying there. God alone knows why they think it may be bad for business, but nothing the gay community or those who seek a fair deal for everyone may say will make one iota of difference so they may as well just suck it up and ignore such businesses.

Why the hell would anyone gay want to stay at their establishment if they are clearly not welcome other than to prove a point that may be worth making but not fighting? There are plenty of other options available. Personally, I would find staying there totally unenjoyably anyway. Imagine them being forced by law to accept all-comers and then put up with their negativity and probable poor service.

Some battles are important and the bigger pictures are those that need fighting. Leave these ‘throwbacks’ to their own devices. They have more than likely shot themselves in the foot anyway. What goes around comes around. So, Whangarie lodge or whatever you call yourselves---stay with your prejudice and dark fears and enjoy your narrow-minded isolation. Just don’t drag (excuse the pun) the rest of us down to your level. We shall get on with enjoying life--- but not with you as part of it----simple.

Yes, the larger battle against narrow thinking and prejudice in any form continues. I don’t seek to change the minds of those that are beyond ‘change;’ there is so much else to fight out there that really matters!

www.authorneilcoleman.com