http://search.deviantart.com/?q=by:blissflowers&section=today deviantART RSS for by:blissflowers en-us Copyright 2009, deviantART.com Sat, 19 Dec 2009 03:08:05 PST deviantART.com http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss http://s.deviantart.com/minish/widgets/apple-touch-icon-precomposed.png http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/27161968/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/27161968/ Sat, 12 Sep 2009 01:22:27 PDT As for the rest, well those of you know, its ok. Since early this year I've been enjoying getting to know a new friend and developing this friendship ( I've never made friends easily as I am quite self contained so this is noteworthy) and it reminds me of my personal quote.
"The meeting of 2 personalities is like two chemicals:if there is any reaction both are transformed"
Talking about people who transform your life, and transformation of lives my friend, Simon, has just become a father. As a gay man he has choosen to coparent with one of his oldest friends Tracy. Their beautiful daughter Alexandra- who I will be seeing this weekend- is the most beautiful child. My heart bursts with happiness for them all

So again sorry I am not here as often as I would like,doesn't mean I think less, or more, often of you though.
Posting occassionally because taking less photographs however pleased you are looking and enjoying
rachel x

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/24057103/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/24057103/ Sat, 04 Apr 2009 11:47:42 PDT Got some old photos to share.
Hope everyone ok
love
Rachel x
p.s as away for 6 months ( phew) I've deleted most things so please forgive me)

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/20486634/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/20486634/ Sun, 14 Sep 2008 10:06:40 PDT
Have my small camera so should get some decent shots.
See you all soon
love
Rachel x

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/20127657/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/20127657/ Sun, 24 Aug 2008 09:59:00 PDT 2 in Wales and 8 in Ireland.
Brilliant time despite the fact that Ireland was experiencing its worst summer for years ( loads and loads of rain) Saying that I took a lot of photos and so , finally, after months of very little submission over the next week or so I will be submitting quite a few
hope everyone is well
Rachel x

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/18145846/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/18145846/ Wed, 07 May 2008 16:06:23 PDT

He was from the Isle of Lismore, a small island off the West Coast of Scotland
[link]

and one of my friends- the one who saw the cross and the thistle in the first place- contacted the island and we found out some information.
So my photo now has some context - I now understand a little of the man who was remembered at Tyne Cot cemetery.
Donald Buchanan was killed on 25th September 1917 at the age of was 27.
Fighting with the 2nd Battalion of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlands he may well have fought in the same part of the Battle of Passchendaele [link] with my grand dad who was in the 4th Battalion of the Kings Shropshire Light Infantry

Donald was born on the 24th August 1890 at Drumskeachan, Lismore.He was a son of Hugh and Maggie (nee Buchanan). His parents were 2nd cousins- hence the same surname.
When he was killed his dad was already dead but his mum was alive.
The 1901 census shows that he had one older brother, one younger brothers and a younger sister.

So I now know a bit more about the person who someone left a a cross and a thistle for over 90 years after they were killed and I will always remember Donald Buchanan.


Update 7th May 2008
I've found out more
Donald was a tailor on Lismore – by all accounts a handsome and generally lovely bloke: my stepfather’s father knew him and says he had ‘that little bit extra about him’. It seems that the girls liked him and this irked some of the young men on the island! He tried to join up when war was declared but was found to be unfit because he’d recently undergone an appendectomy. A newspaper article reporting on his death says that he was called up in January 1917, although I am not certain if this is the case. He certainly went into the 2nd btn Argylls. The battalion war diary records that this unit was in the line in the Ypres Salient on the evening of 25 / 26 September 1917, during Third Ypres. This was the start of the Battle of Polygon Wood, where the Australians went on to lose a lot of men in some extremely bitter fighting. The Argylls started off from the wood known as Stirling Castle and crossed the Menin Road towards the NE corner of Polygon Wood, known as ‘Black Watch Corner’. Around this time, ‘A’ and ‘C’ coys came under very heavy shellfire and communications were cut. The war diary records that the OC ‘sent several runners [to HQ], but only one got through.’ Unfortunately, Donald was one of those who volunteered for the task and was killed in the attempt. His friend, Charles Cameron – also from Lismore – was with him when he died. He records that Donald was ‘struck by a piece of shrapnel’, although jis family were told that he was shot by a sniper. His body would have been lost in the fighting that followed, so he is commemorated at Tyne Cot. It seems that Donald’s sister was devastated by the loss of her much loved big brother. She kept everything that he sent and his niece still has these keepsakes, including his field Bible which was sent home after his death.

‘Fare thee well my home of yore

I may not see thee any more

And though I lie on foreign shore

I love thee still…’

part of a poem written by Donald Buchanan before he left for war

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/18032833/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/18032833/ Sat, 26 Apr 2008 03:46:28 PDT As I travelled round and saw Thiepval [link]
the Menheim gate
and Tyne Cot
[link]
I felt fortunate that at least i had a grave to visit so many people have nothing but a name on a memorial, they don't know where their loved ones died.
At the Notre Dame de Lorette- a French memorial I went to there were several mass graves , the biggest one was for over 5000 soldiers.
[link]
As always I took a lot of phots, including some I hope interesting to my friends, especially in Australia and New Zealand as it was Anzac Day on the 25th April.
peace and love to you all
Rachel

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/17067297/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/17067297/ Tue, 26 Feb 2008 01:43:09 PST left my job last week, amicably and with good financial support. It was time to leave there. Five years is a long time
Everyone seems to think that I should be a bit sad but to be honest i'm relieved my time had come to go from there and I'm actually happy. Doors are opening for me- or maybe they were always opened but I didn't see then. Working on the speaker circuit, guest lecturer at a couple of UK Unis and got interviews for jobs that are a lot more me- but don't need to be in a rush to get one, which is good
will eventually start to download photos again- have taken some honest
rachel x

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/16778536/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/16778536/ Fri, 08 Feb 2008 00:29:31 PST wasn't on DA much now plan to be. Did miss quite a lot of you.
Will try and post some photos over the weekend
Rachel x

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/15862520/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/15862520/ Sun, 09 Dec 2007 12:23:26 PST Nothing too fancy at the moment however purple in honour of journal being so splendidly purple.
Gradually I hope that others will let me know how to customise more but at this stage its
I'm also feeling a little smug as lots of Christmas presents bought and nearly all my cards written. To be honest this is a shock to find myself virtually ready for Christmas weeks before I usually do. And no my tree and decorations are not up. Twelve days before Christmas and taken down twelve days after- can't wait to get them up though
I've not taken many photos recently because I've been so busy at work but at least I've been managing to look at DA and seeing all the great work that others are doing
love and light to you all
Rachel x

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/14220182/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/14220182/ Sat, 18 Aug 2007 01:59:49 PDT It should be awsome. Yes I'm in training, its only 5 k but I want to ensure I can do it in just about 30 minutes even if i end up walking around with my 60 and 70 something aunts
Please feel free to sponsor me
So how the link doesn't work well on this but if you remove the spaces and then paste this into your search you should get my page

www. bhf. org .uk/ rachelflowers



Oh yes and off to Yorkshire for a holiday this week so hopefully there will be photos coming soon
love
Rachel x

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/13440978/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/13440978/ Fri, 22 Jun 2007 01:44:44 PDT This weekend I'm off to a wedding and on Sunday become a year older. It makes me smile when I read the "oh my god I'm old journals" of the teenagers. What's old I suppose- all at matter of perspective I guess.
Lets be honest unless we're newborn that second we're all older than someone
So I'm older and going to have a great time and yes alcohol may play some part but my friends and family will play a greater part .
Enjoy the photos
love
Rachel

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/12960644/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/12960644/ Tue, 15 May 2007 02:40:30 PDT this time Guernsey and yeap still work related. Health of the Islands.
This is the next conference in the island public health forum after Orkney and you all know how much I enjoyed that.
i've been here before but not for very long so looking forward to it.
The conference programme is very good too
i've packed the small camara and hope to take quite a few photos. Look out for the posts next week

big to you all
back Saturday
rachel

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/12310248/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/12310248/ Sat, 24 Mar 2007 13:29:16 PDT work hard, play hard type of thing ( well should I say drink a bit more often and larger amounts than normal- ) I'm really looking forward to it. Lots of talking and meeting people and sharing ideas and thoughts. The conference dinner has dancing ( Scottish I hope) so that should be a laugh ( yeah one of my skills is Scottish Country dancing- no don't smirk its a joyous experience and I get to wear girly floaty dresses)
back on Friday so talk to you all then.
Big hug to all of you, especially those of you with more troubles than usual
rachel x

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/11780600/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/11780600/ Sun, 18 Feb 2007 08:46:10 PST Anyone who knows me knows that I am in many ways childlike in my excitment about haydays and holidays- can't help it I'm bouncing around with a big smile on my face.
big to you all
rachel x


Update- Sunday 18th
back and had a wonderful time. No snow at Chur ( global warming?! ) but loads of snow at Arosa and the higher parts of the Alps. spent most of the time sledging and the one day I went to the lakes it was Carnival time - think Swiss Mardi Grais- which was different. A great holiday. Am now wading through the photos and will post some today

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/11524767/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/11524767/ Mon, 22 Jan 2007 00:36:00 PST I was drenched for about 10 mins and then had some lovely lighting, the swans fighting was a extra treat- although i think that I'm only posting one of those photos. In the next couple of days will post the pastoral photos I took.
to you all especially my occasional readers
rachel

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/11111757/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/11111757/ Tue, 19 Dec 2006 00:53:26 PST As I get older Christmas doesn't loose its specialness its just that work life seems to be creeping closer to it and i don't notice that its nearly there and then ta dah- I get that festive spirit.
I think that I'm nearly there at that switch between normal and festive, I'm anticipating it but i've only realised writing this now - this is almost as good as the feeling it
really can't wait now


to you all
rachel x

oh yeah for my baby sister

and for my most wonderful friend


]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/10891121/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/10891121/ Wed, 29 Nov 2006 14:00:55 PST talks about but second generation DA.
I am proud to say that my son Jack has just started up his own DA account
please go and have a look and say hi.

Just back from London so rather tired- not much time to do anything on here- and I still have 50 + messages on my stock acount re my daily deviation.
to you all
rachel x



]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/10795151/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/10795151/ Tue, 21 Nov 2006 00:30:51 PST Mainly it was country walking- sometimes fast sometimes leisurely always with Havoc her dog who is like Santas little Helper in the Simpsons but in a Staffordshire body- he is lovely and sweet but soooo badly behaved ( shouldn't laugh but you always do)
It started when I put a slice of bread down to get a drink and Havoc thought that this was a cue to take it off the plate on the table and eat it- yes I know so bad but also so funny!!
Didn't take many photos as too busy walking and enjoying the ambiance.
Came back late Sunday evening watched Torchwood ( I so want it to fulfil the potential that it has and I think that its starting to get there) then Lost ( yes you know my tv waching secrets) loving the third series ( for my non UK readers the third series of Lost started on Sunday night)
Monday was a totally busy day came back and crashed hence this being posted today but wanted to post it as had one of the best weekends for a while.
to you all
rachel x

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/10713458/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/10713458/ Mon, 13 Nov 2006 15:22:17 PST

thanks to for suggesting it
and for featuring it
also thanks to who told me that it had happened- otherwise I wouldn't have known- it being on my stock account and all that
this feels really good
had hundreds of lovely comments - am answering them all but might take a while- thanks to all




]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/10534496/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/10534496/ Sat, 28 Oct 2006 05:54:13 PDT I also visited the grave of my great grandad- he died from wounds after the battle of Loos in 1918 aged 34- this was more moving that I thought. one of the reasons is that for many years our family had no idea where he was buried. The family eventually found where he was buried in the 1975 and my grandad finally got to say goodbye at his tombstone. Throughout I recalled all the many many families effected by wars and conflicts- whatever your views on war wars and conflicts this loss of men, and women ( although all soldiers were men in this conflict there were some women killed) and the impact it had on their loved onesand the people who love or care for them.
i'm posting two photos today
The Somme 90 years on- the metal posts are part of the trenches of the British front line and go down about 6-8 ft

The second one is in memory of my Great grandad James Miller and is the cemetary where he is buried with men from both sides and many nationalities


peace and love to you all
rachel x

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/10455381/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/10455381/ Fri, 20 Oct 2006 12:08:24 PDT With small camara so there will be some photos taken. Both work and pleasure-so pleased both my head and heart


Rachel x

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/10304707/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/10304707/ Fri, 06 Oct 2006 14:20:02 PDT and having over 2 weeks off work( first time in years) I am nearly better. So will celebrate by copying something straight from diary
to be honest I think that she has better answers but mine are funnier
to you all and an extra big for my favourite lady
rachel x

1.YOUR PORN STAR NAME
(name of first pet + street you live on):
Tinkerbell Girdlers ( good start then tails off I think!)

2. YOUR MOVIE STAR NAME
(grandmother's/father's first name + favorite snack)
Winnie Chocolate

3. YOUR FASHION DESIGNER NAME
(first word you see on your left + favorite restaurant)
Quality Akbars

4. YOUR SOCIALITE NAME
(silliest childhood nickname + first town where you partied):
Bobo London

5. YOUR "FLY GIRL/GUY" NAME
(first initial + first three letters of your last name)
R. Flo

6. YOUR DETECTIVE NAME
(favorite animal + name of high school):
Cat Finham

7. YOUR BARFLY NAME
(last snack food you ate + your favorite drink)
Chocolate Whisky ( oh yes!!)

8. YOUR SOAP OPERA NAME
(middle name + city where you were born):
Jane Coventry ( nope not convinced by that one)

9. YOUR ROCK STAR NAME
(favorite candy + favorite musician's last name):
love a lot of musicians so will be a variation of
Chocolate
e.g Chocolate Joe etc ( yep there is a theme around chocolate going on here )

10. YOUR OPPOSITE SEX NAME
(name of [opposite sex] friend + cell phone company you use):
Simon T-mobile ( sure this works better with american companies)

11. YOUR STAR WARS NAME
(first 3 letters of your last name + last 3 letters of mother's maiden name)
Floler hmmm what type of alien is called that


rather fun- please try and let me know

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/10024973/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/10024973/ Sun, 10 Sep 2006 06:28:10 PDT


should really update you all with life- work, play, work, play, work and then a week at Bournemouth ( both work and play) including a swim in the sea ( when I should have been working). My general conclusion over the last month or so is that I excel in my professional life but have sod all idea of real life . does anyone elses life feel like an over complex novel or is that just me? and in case you wonder I alternate between hero and anti-hero, knowing leader and nieve airhead . Still overall life is great .
to you all
rachel x

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/9613664/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/9613664/ Sun, 06 Aug 2006 01:58:36 PDT FallenRox last journal has pushed me to write my tome
As I said last weekend fantastic

I arrived at Barcelona airport at 9pm and my luggage finally got to me at 10.45- an indication of the escalating baggage handlers strike at the airport.
With no Spainish and a rough map a rushed out of the air con into the heat( phew) and caught a bus to the Place de Catalunya arriving at 11.30. I was pleased with myself

At 11.30 I was knocking down cava and eating almonds and olives( ever one else had eaten even tho my last meal was two small sandwitches at about noon!) with Simon( b'day boy) and about 12 people 2 I knew and the rest I didn't
The next day was Simons 40th we all met up for b'fast and it was here he told us that Barcelona airport had been shut by unoffical action- noone could get it or out. So some people planning to come to Catalan were trying different routes- yes Simon is a fantastic person who inspires love in many of us
While the rest were sorting out themselves I was bouncing to go and have a look at something so managed a half hour going to the Gothic Cathedral- wow. Will post some shots.
Went back and then a large group of us went to Cassa Battlo- my first Gaudi experience- wonderful , sensual and we were there for ages- the attics were exceptionally fantastic and I now know where Mary Quant got her inspiration for the logo- may post photos I took of the floor but you might glance it in this one of my more favourite photos


The over to the Gaudi Sagrada Familia- wow , wow, wow don't think any of my photos do this credit- although some may be posted in my stock acount. Too busy so finally at 3pm I ate properlly .

Birthday tapas for Simon with 7 of us- that was so much fun and Damien- from San Francisco ordered some special Catalan liquors and we sang Happy Birthday- Damiem spoke fluent Spanish. There were two Americians this w/e we did call the "The Americians" Damien and Jarrett- Jarrett was from New York - and although we didn't realise it hadn't met each other until the day before. This gave you an indication of the bonding we had this weekend.
Me and two others went into the Sagrada Familia- wonderful, awesome- so much scaffolding
Siesta for a couple of hours get read and then the main reason for us all being there Simons 40th birthday meal
The main b'day meal had 37 of us- two people having flown to Perpinon, hired a car driven through the Pyrenes ( and a forest fire!) to get there- I kid you not- talk about wacky races. Ok so I may have ended up giving the response to Simons speach- well I love him greatly and noone else seemed prepared to give it.
Simon is the only friend that I can identify the day i became thier firend. For us it was 28th July- i.e his b'day, 18 years ago.

Bed for me at 4.30 I forgo the gin in somones bedroom- glad I did having seen Jarratt in the morning ( there were 26 of us in same hotel) The waiter took one look at him and left the pot of coffee which he drank and then went back to bed.
The next day I explored by myself saw some museums- including the Picasso one - then met Simon and a friend for lunch
as we were walkinb back to the hotel Simon told me that I might be going to the opera with him-and when I got back was told that I was
Awesome- Madame Butterfly with him and two other friends- his first time at an opera and part of a present and yes I cried buckets. We had a late meal and then back to... ]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/9500182/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/9500182/ Mon, 31 Jul 2006 23:46:21 PDT
tomorrow I fly off to Barcelona to celebrate my friend Simons 40th birthday.
I'm planning to manage partying and exploring in equal part.
The new camara is coming with me so hopefully will share some of my time there.
Did I mention that I'm a tad excited
Haven't had a break from work for ages so this will be doubley good.
Right must go and pack
to you all
rachel x

Tuesday 1st August

I'm back! Well came back late on Sunday
most wonderful time
would go back there tomorrow if I could.if you haven't been go
There was even a time that due to a strike at the airport i might have had to stay another day. Sadly that didn't happen
Gaudi is great, the Gothic cathedral great, the shops great.
I even went to the opera to see Madame Butterfly
took over 300 photos- admittedly as my friend asked me to take a lot- and there are lots of the party that will be posted on his web page- don't worry I'll give you the hyper link
as for phots taken for me will post later this week

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/9159929/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/9159929/ Fri, 23 Jun 2006 13:59:35 PDT so those who know me will know that I have reverted to a child like state. I get all excited and want wonderful things to happen. To be honest my expectations are almost fairy tale like in that happy ever after, fully glowing wellbeing stuff
Well as you might guess my totally unrealistic expectations are rarely if ever met but because my standards are so high I always have memorable birthdays.
I've just come back from a drink with some friends in London which was lovely- I do tend to spred my birthday celbrations over a couple of days. There are a couple of friends who'll I see next week as well.

Tomorrow I am hosting a bbq at home- never done anything like this before. Approx 20-30 people are coming. I found out it was happening Tuesday evening and I've been preparig ever since- food, beer ( got a polypin of beer from a local brewery ), wine etc. The boys have some of their friends coming to This is going to be such good fun. I'll try not to drink until later
well at least aim to stay awake until the last people leave

So tomorrow its my birthday and I offically get my Canon PowerShot A700 - its such a lovely little compact and I can take it around when I work rather than take no camera due to space. As you can see i've had a couple of test shots- well more than a couple. Interestingly Canon choose to provide a 16 k memory card. Why bother? So I also got a 1 m one that should keep me going for a while. Can't wait to try it out properlly. Will post on the site in due course
Big to you all
Rachel x

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/8821152/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/8821152/ Fri, 19 May 2006 23:01:50 PDT . Swanage for those who want to know- really beautiful part of England coast
my work is all done( for those of you who don't know it was the professional equivelant of a PhD). I'm so happy. Not sure if I'll be able to explain any better but am so happy got a second chance. I choose not to make friends easily so this is good
Life is sweet
look out for the photos
big to you all
rachel x

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/8499866/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/8499866/ Mon, 17 Apr 2006 13:00:20 PDT

Not been chosen for anything like this before so feeling quite pleased with myself
Great concept to expose underexposed photographers.
I'm delighted to see that my photos is right next to my friend Robs *twodogs239
Well done Tanya for such a great idea
I totally recommend that all of you go and have a look, if you haven't already- there's some great stuff there
rachel x

my stock


some clubs I belong to


]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/8149000/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/8149000/ Mon, 13 Mar 2006 12:16:47 PST Most times I listen when i'm in a good mood- today I'm reflective but wanted to share this with you all because it reflects the mortality of us all. I'm not scared of death and I don't feel I let people down I am not advocating self harm, not cool ( my son is a self harmer) but understand all the sentiment and feel that I do it to myself emotionally. i went out on a limb with someone a couple of weeks ago, not like me at all but i did, and now don't know where I stand. For someone like me this uncertainty is my pain.
Oh yes and today someone I know close to my age ( he was 44) died. Makes you think doesn't it?!!!

Hurt NIN

I hurt myself today
to see if I still feel
I focus on the pain
the only thing that's real
the needle tears a hole
the old familiar sting
try to kill it all away
but I remember everything

what have I become?
my sweetest friend
everyone I know
goes away in the end
you could have it all
my empire of dirt
I will let you down
I will make you hurt

I wear this crown of thorns
upon my liar's chair
full of broken thoughts
I cannot repair
beneath the stains of time
the feeling disappear
you are someone else
I am still right here

what have I become?
my sweetest friend
everyone I know
goes away in the end

you could have it all
my empire of dirt
I will let you down
I will make you hurt
if I could start again
a million miles away
I would keep myself
I would find a way

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/7932420/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/7932420/ Sat, 18 Feb 2006 08:27:04 PST Here I am in France loving France but realising that they don't use a qwerty keyboard. Thanks to a note to =FallenRox (5 who is going through a sad time) and a comment to Ben I have now kindof got the hand of it.
Rob what type of keyboard do you have in China? (took me a while to find the?)
I was just going to write a wow how great is Calais and Bologne and that I'll be posting the photos when I return.
Just here for a long weekend with my family- having great fun and love that I can contact you all anywhere there is a link- even if it takes me a while to sort out the keyboard layout
big to you all and a special to Roxy
rachel x

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/7906954/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/7906954/ Wed, 15 Feb 2006 13:40:20 PST
This is the most exciting peice of public health legislation for years.
Next year all of the UK workplaces will become smokefree. This will save about 700 lives a year and be the push to get 4-5% of all smokers to quit for good.
Those of you who know me know that I think that this is a very good thing

While I was there I took the opportunity to take a free photos from a possition that many don't get to see. The security is very good now and it took a thourough search plus an invite and id to get in so maybe far less that before. Ironically as i was lobbying and a little distracted there are only a couple that I like and one is of St Stephens tower( Big Ben) so the Houses of Parliment from the outside.
Yesterday was a truely great day
Oh yes and this week I started a stock site ~BlissStock please visit- still new but will eventually have most of my photos as stock. Please go and visit and use
big to you all
rachel x

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/7799193/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/7799193/ Sat, 04 Feb 2006 11:55:44 PST a man was on a beach and in the distance he sees a another man doing something. As he gets closer he sees that the man is throwing something into the sea.
When he gets closer he asks the man " what are you doing?" the man points out thousands of starfish on the beach. " do you see these starfish? if they remain on the beach then they will die"
The first man then says "but there are so many, how can you make a difference?"
The second man picks up a starfish and flings it into the sea and says " I made a difference to that one"

A random act of kindness, no matter how small can make a difference. Be a starfish thrower

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/7731626/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/7731626/ Sat, 28 Jan 2006 12:15:22 PST abandoned-essence journal and it quite appealed to me. those of you who know me will guess that the challenge for me is giving just one answer for each question
Mind you like challenges too
not going to tag anyone but please feel free to try this one too
big to you all
rachel x

If I were a month I would be: October
If I were a day of the week I would be: Friday
If I were a time of day I would be: mid-evening
If I were a planet I would be: Venus
If I were a animal I would be: a cheetah
If I were a direction I would be: moving forward with a gradual left hand turn
If I were a piece of furniture I would be: a table lamp
If I were a historical figure I would be: Mary Wollstonecraft ( Mary Shelleys mum)
If I were a liquid I would be: golden syrup
If I were a tree I would be: a Douglas fir
If I were a flower/plant I would be: a poppy
If I were a kind of weather I would be:temperate, dry but blustery ( ok got nearly more than one answer here )
If I were a musical instrument I would be: a lute
If I were an emotion I would be: passion
If I were a colour I would be: autumnal red
If I were a vegetable I would be: a globe artechoke
If I were a sound I would be: jingling bells
If I were an element I would be: water
If I were a car I would be: something small, sleek yet very fast
If I were a song I would be: weapon of mass distruction- Faithless
If I were a movie I would be directed by: Speilburg
If I were a book I would be written by: Dickens
If I were a food I would be: chocolate
If I were a place I would be: somewhere with hills and greenery
If I were a material I would be: silk
If I were a taste I would be: rather sweet
If I were a scent I would be: Jean Paul Gautier first perfume ( one one in the body bottle)- this is the only scent I wear
If I were a word I would be: absolutely
If I were an object I would be: a recordable dvd
If I were a body part I would be: the nape of the neck
If I were a facial expression I would be: a wry smile
If I were a cartoon character I would be:stewie griffin from Family Guy
If I were a shape I would be a: a circle
If I were a number I would be: 5

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/7607154/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/7607154/ Sun, 15 Jan 2006 02:17:47 PST
I feel very honoured and
my lovely wonderful friend =FallenRox has designed me a new avatar
I'll be honest the last one wasn't really a reflection of who I am just a photo I'd taken.
Roxxy designed this with me in mind- for this I am very, very flattered.thank you, thank you , thank you Roxx

Its the "a touch of midnight" at the end of the written discription when she sent it me ( and no I'm not sharing all ) that made me smile. Those who know me will know that she's really got this right
what an absolute star.
sure that other stuff has happened to me but it is so nice for someone to make something for me that I just can't think
big to you all and
extra big to Roxx (Kat)

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/7591396/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/7591396/ Fri, 13 Jan 2006 10:25:15 PST FallenRox journal and low and behold I am tagged.
So lets see what I can do with these questions

1. Grab the book nearest to you, turn to page 18, and find line 4.

"was regal, her cheek bones high, her eyebrows raised and arched,her"

its from my Mary Queen of Scots biog- honest

2. Stretch your left arm out as far as you can.

yes done that

3. What is the last thing you watched on TV?

Futurama

4. Without looking, guess what time it is:

18.00

5. Now look at the clock. What is the actual time?

18:04 ( not bad really!)

6. With the exception of the computer, what can you hear?

Jack, my 12 year old, playing Resident Evil 4- its mainly the music with occasional weapon sounds.

7. When did you last step outside? What were you doing?

7.30 to go to work- earlier start that planned however as last night Tom ( 10 year old) told me he was getting the School Achievement cup in front of the whole school- yes I was a proud mum

8. Before you started this survey, what did you look at?

Well obviously =FallenRox journal but before DA work e-mails

9. What are you wearing?

Work clothes. Gray trousers, black polo neck jumper, loud colourful beads to demonstrate that I don't always wear black and gray for work. ( ok and under jumper black and gray stripy t-shirt )

10. Did you dream last night?

Yes, can't remeber what but woke up happy

11. When did you last laugh?

When I read =FallenRox tagged journal

12. What is on the walls of the room you are in?

gray paint, butterflies and steam trains

13. Seen anything weird lately?

This Wednesday I was at a meeting in Westminster and I saw New Labour, Tories and an Indepedant Members of Great British Governent all agreeing about the importance of having a total workplace smoking ban. Ok a very British, public health weird with a bit of place dropping but hell it was weird.
On the day that Government agreed that there could be a free vote on the Health Bill.....ok lost most of you mainly from boredom but it was both weird and quite exciting. we get the blanket ban.

14. What do you think of this quiz?

too long

15. What is the last film you saw?
Actually saw two yesterday
40 year old virgin- really funny film and Brokeback mountain - beautiful scenes, wonderfully sad story but too, too long

16. If you became a multi-millionaire overnight, what would you buy?

provide for my family, buy a pad by Regents Park, sort out lifetime income for those I care for and then give the rest away

17. Tell me something about you that I don't know:

I hate melons- the only fruit I totally can't stand- don't know why as I love all others

18. If you could change one thing about the world, regardless of guilt or politics, what would you do?

make sure that everyone in this world had a safe, abundant and near water supply

19. Do you like to dance?

Love to to almost any type of music and, of course, I'm part of a demonstration team for Scottish Country dancing - when I'm able to go- which isn't often

20. George Bush:

Truely gives the wrong impression about Americans ( mind you not sure what Blair does for us Brits!)

21. Imagine your first child is a girl, what do you call her?

Molly

22. Imagine your first child is a boy, what do you call him?

Jack- as my first born child was called

23. Would you ever consider living abroad?

not permenantly.

24. What do you want God to say to you when you reach the pearly gates?

not sure I believe in God but if someone was to say something about me after my death I hope it would be about my desire to change things and the actions I did that made peoples lives better

25. people who must also do this in THEIR journal
mmmm I'll think about this and get back to you http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/7534377/ Sat, 07 Jan 2006 10:07:48 PST
[link]
Actually its about social disfuction (!) and what appealed to me was the model however I quite like the outcome for me

"You're a happy person - you have a good amount of self-esteem, and are socially healthy. While this isn't a social dysfunction per se, you're definitely not normal. Consider yourself lucky: you walk that fine line between 'normal' and being outright narcissistic. You're rare - which is something else to be happy about."

I was at my first Ball of the year last night wore a shiny strappy long red dress that makes me feel like a vampy princess and seems to make others desire me danced for hours and hours, flirted outragously and generally had a great time. Great start to the new year dancing season.
My other news is that I recieved the "offical" invite to my good friends Simons "0th" birthday
A long weekend in Barcelona - gay guys truely have style. It will be in the summer, can't wait to take those phots
too much excitment going back to and then
big to you all
rachel

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/6833888/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/6833888/ Sat, 22 Oct 2005 05:16:45 PDT Moonbeam13 journal. She hates tests but took one anyway.
Me I love them
I think that its great fun to get a perspective on these type of things- although this must be part of my personality type
See [link] for Myers, Briggs test
and take it, its fun- you don't need to share.

Ok so me
ENFP- Extrovert, iNtuitive,Feeling, Perceiving
You are:
• very expressed extrovert
• very expressed intuitive personality
• distinctively expressed feeling personality
• moderately expressed perceiving personality

People ask about me and what i'm like- below is a ENFP discription- I think that a lot of it fits well, although not all me gives you quite a jist
These type of tests are really great at giving a flavour for most

" The Champion Idealists are abstract in thought and speech, cooperative in accomplishing their aims, and informative and extraverted when relating with others. For Champions, nothing occurs which does not have some deep ethical significance, and this, coupled with their uncanny sense of the motivations of others, gives them a talent for seeing life as an exciting drama, pregnant with possibilities for both good and evil. This type is found in only about 3 percent of the general population, but they have great influence because of their extraordinary impact on others. Champions are inclined to go everywhere and look into everything that has to do with the advance of good and the retreat of evil in the world. They can't bear to miss out on what is going on around them; they must experience, first hand, all the significant social events that affect our lives. And then they are eager to relate the stories they've uncovered, hoping to disclose the "truth" of people and issues, and to advocate causes. This strong drive to unveil current events can make them tireless in conversing with others, like fountains that bubble and splash, spilling over their own words to get it all out.
Champions consider intense emotional experiences as being vital to a full life, although they can never quite shake the feeling that a part of themselves is split off, uninvolved in the experience. "

As I said love these. done a couple before with same results- although think that you can change some things
take care all
Rachel x

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/6721675/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/6721675/ Sun, 09 Oct 2005 14:13:58 PDT
wow- what a place
all of you go at least once in your life.
Such a beautiful group of islands- although I was only on the main one- call confusingly The mainland. Kirkwall the capital is on West Mainland.
I visited most of the famous sites. Three world heritage sites within 7 miles.
Scara brae- 5000 year old village uncovered when a storm blew off a sand bank in the 1840s. Unbelivable
The Ring of Brodgar- a stone circle of about the same age- again amazing, took many many phots. Near this the Stones of Stronrare- 4 stones left of a 12 stone circle. Strange shaped stones
Plus Mais howe- a building that no-one knows the purpose off- again about 5000 years old - however at winter solstace the winter sun comes into the passage ( the lining of which is made from single stones approx 100 tonnes each!) and hits the centre of a chamber- the purpose of which isn't known.
Wow and wow. No phots allowed in this. Later on the Vikings used it as a refuge and there are Viking runes carved all over the inside. Mostly Sven was here type of thing or showing off how well their rune writing was. One using all the runic alphabet( an oxymoron here?) basically said this was caved by the best runic writer in the world!
Near this was an amasing listed 1840s listed preaching church. Designed for total viewing of the preacher and with acoustics that meant that every whisper heard- so hours upon hours of silence listening to a preachers rant. The wind was howling around the doors- very austere.
Oh yes the weather- so lucky - we, appartently, had the summer week, appart from the first Sunday the rest was beautiful- sunny days about 16-18 degrees centigrade. Although there was some wind not the howling wind that is typical of Orkney. There are no trees on the islands as none can withstand the wind.
The day i flew in the plane was buffeted a bit and there was a storm at night- if I'd caught the overnight ferry i'd have experienced a force 9 gale!!!
The next day we ended up looking over the whole island and finished on the south side looking over to mainland Scotland. As i watch i saw a basking shark swiming back and forward- hence the name I guess, plus a couple of seals and a sea eagle. Truely a great day. And then by chance went to a site- there is so much history - and ended up in a site- this time only 2000 years old! that was a villiage.
Most of the above on camera and I am now seeing how much I can sort out- some will be posted for you all. I took about 150 shots which i'm putting on a cd for a freind who forgot to take a camera!
The work was great too- lots of new friends. My new friend Maggie is trying to arrange a conference in Sheltland so I can go to that island. In 2006 i'm in Guernsey and after that Gibrater.
Oh yes and Edinburgh was great too- took a friend to a couple of pubs he'd not been too. And in response to a comment by Rob- yes certainly consumed far more than my safe limit of alchol this week. Hell even went to Highland Park and bought a bottle- limited issue malt- blended 12 and 27 year old called Cappella- wonder
better go and look at some of your work now.
take care all of you and get well soon Kat
great to be back- but what a bloody great time I had- best week away

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/6640605/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/6640605/ Fri, 30 Sep 2005 07:57:10 PDT
hello everyone
I am sorry that I've been a little distracted over the last week or so.
Awful really as Bens first week at uni and I've been neglecting him a bit- sorry hun- although things seem to be going well. For City too.
Must trying and get down to London and see you soon.
Strange week really it was Tonys birthday-( he was my best freinds Simons partner) he'd have been 45 and even though he's been gone for so long I still miss him loads. Also Stuarts- Andys dads birthday- he'd have been 63 - he's been gone for a year. Cigarettes kill you early- remember that all my readers
Well apart from the emotional stuff there has been just so much work- well feel that I should show my appreciation for being made a consultant Seriously I'm trying to save someones job and write a smokefree policy for an area that includes sectioned patients- a bit of a challenge oh and some other stuff
On top of all this I have been trying to write a story for Kat- nearly got it but realise that I am a bit more of a perfectionist on this that I thought possible so will reflect more and it will get there eventually- honest
and as the heading says off to Orkney
it is actually work related and there will be lots of work there- honest
but they will also be the Orkney isles and time to look around them a bit
There is a lovely brewery and a distillery that produces my favourite single malt ever- Highland Park( and to think that I used to hate whisky)
Whoops seem to be segueing into another journal re alcohol use
The beer brewed is something called Skull Spliter- award winning and makes reference to an Orkadian not what it does to you- honest.
Will be taking a small camera with me and hope to take some shots.
Unfortunately I am not likely to see the Aurora but hey you never know.
Its a conference I'm going to in case you all think its a bit of a skive- it really is. I'm doing some work on three of the day- do you think I'm labouring the point
Found out that on my last day there that there is a dance- the woman fiddler is rowing over to the Main island !!! Absolutely brilliant. I'm going to be taught Orchadian dances
Oh and btw I'm flying tonight and staying in Edinburgh- one of my favourite cities ever- and so I'll just have to go out and have a couple of drinks in my favourite pub. might catch some music later.
Andy is being a star and looking after the boys for the whole week
and me we'll i'll be in Orkney via Edinburgh
See you all in a week


]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/6568753/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/6568753/ Thu, 22 Sep 2005 00:04:31 PDT )
I'm really aware that I've neglected all of you........ but I have been thinking about you all especially a story for Kat
big to you all
hope you are all well , may be back on DA sometime this w/e


]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/6464612/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/6464612/ Sat, 10 Sep 2005 03:14:59 PDT Asked the question of the conference apparently got an ovation when I asked it and a mention in the closing speech. I was so embarressed but so pleased
What I also learnt is about resizing my photos thanks Rob so over this weekend going to resize my exsisting phots and sort out some others- including manipulation.
Also last weekend here for Ben so going out with him this afternoon.
you can tell I'm tired as this is a very boring entry- will try better soon
take care all
love
Rachel x

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/6410394/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/6410394/ Sun, 04 Sep 2005 02:03:14 PDT in case you didn't guess
For those who know me they know that I love my work so will be having great fun working with people that I don't often get chance to
This time only a small bit player and delegate- last year Chaired the main session- so can relax and chat- and you'll all guess that I love that
Not taking any of my cameras as won't have time just have time to write this before I pack and go but didn't want to go without saying good bye to you all
see you all in a week
take care everyone


]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/6360017/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/6360017/ Mon, 29 Aug 2005 13:06:51 PDT
what a great holiday
Ireland is such a great place to go.
West Coast with its microclimate which mainly means it rains a lot- but hey you wouldn't have the Emerald Isle without the rain
Stayed in Doolin in County Clare and could see the Arran islands when it wasn't gray and stormy
Lots of to Irish folk and great walking.
Then back to Dublin for the craic and more
Will post the photos gradually
Today just chilling. Met up with Ben which was good fun and we chose a new coat for me- which is great- thanks Ben
message for everyone- go to Ireland its great

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/6262131/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/6262131/ Thu, 18 Aug 2005 13:25:46 PDT
taking all the camera kit so hopefully loads of wonderful Irish scenery to be seen in a week or two time.
My really good news is that Ben got into uni although silly man didn't realise that he'd got an unconditional offer so the anguish wasn't really necessary
anyway well done Ben
see you all online in a week or so
to you all

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/6123824/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/6123824/ Wed, 03 Aug 2005 15:10:39 PDT
although to be fair I make sure that I get some play
people often comment about how I find my energy
however those in the know, know that I am considerably helped by Andy looking after the children
brilliant last few days socially
went to Cardiff with the family to see the most amazing museum. Andy and Tom have already been there- which is why Andy sat well away from Tom in the performance and I got volunteered even for someone like me who is used to standing up and performing to audiences- once to an audience of over 1000 in Belfast- it was daunting and involved me mainly sitting on a whoopie cushion . Brilliant fun, couldn't stop laughing
Next day went to Simons party with Tom and Ben. Bens first time at this party Toms 5th ( not bad as he is only 9). Great fun just chilling and having gentle intelligent conversation
Yesterday I finally decided that I had to go to summer Tuesday at the London Highland Club- first Tuesday dancing for me this year. It was wonderful I got so many and met some good friends- danced with a few The music was wonderful. Drove into London and back out- first time in weekday but decided would be quicker. There was a bombscare at Charing Cross wihch delayed my friend Paddy and the centre of London was closed for a while for a bus fire, however i still feel it is important to go into London as much as possible. And for those of you who know it was incredible. The M1. M24 and M4 were all moving quickly no delay at all got there about 40 mins before I thought.
exhausting few days workwise well not quite as elegant as this but Neo would have been impressed with my ninja like mind moves in virtual battles at work Also been trying to sort out a restructure, a bid for £600k new funding and developing a new service
but not as much as my freind Rob who worked a 22 hour shift- big to him.
Posted some but not as many as I'd like.
That sunflower is finally open and would like to complete that cycle
Now going to go to
Hope that everyone is well
take care all

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/6065709/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/6065709/ Fri, 29 Jul 2005 08:50:48 PDT
What a week so much done Most people who know me will know that my life is a great big on so many levels
I was asked what i did this week by ~berlynn good question.Sometimes I wonder although I know that the i do has a positve impact on peoples health You can see my answer to her below.
Just come back from London. Great time as always- lots of and lots of Which is possibly why I'm not much actual sleep . I went to the theatre, which I and Shakespear which is a bit but I really enjoy. always have just like the theatrics of it
London was full of policemen and women. Over 1000 on the streets, actually there was about 8 policemen who checked on my train before I left Coventry- certainly raised security level and things are still a little tense but heck just got to get on with it, know that there are lots of people trying to prevent any more grief. My best friend- who i went out with- is a bit shaken by it all. I've tried to reassure him but i guess this is something that he'll have to figure out for himself. Still it's easy for me to say I don't live in London and am not there daily like he is. I do worry about him though and wish I could reassure him more
Although I am back in London again on Sunday Its my other best freinds birthday. Go there every year Simon has a fixation so I've bought him, yet another though how many a man can have is a really good question
So end of a long week where I found out from~zaffre that there are no hedgehogs in Hawaii- which is something i'd never even thought of before :
Busy for most of the weekend so no additions to my I think but hey you never know

]]> ~blissflowers http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/5957308/ http://blissflowers.deviantart.com/journal/5957308/ Sun, 17 Jul 2005 08:45:20 PDT
it was so great
guess it was looking for
it got chicken
I took lots of photgraphs but sadly am meant to be
so can't look at them until later
anyway must have at least one good photograph
so watch this space

]]> ~blissflowers