tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4281280375046445072024-03-06T19:09:18.817+00:00A Writer in a WheelchairWhat more does a girl need in life than some wheels and the ability to write?Emmahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08965647190492385781noreply@blogger.comBlogger1431125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428128037504644507.post-12012387740807029742012-04-19T00:04:00.001+01:002012-04-19T00:04:53.158+01:00The End... But NotThis blog will no longer be updated here.<br /><br />Instead it will be at <a href="http://www.writerinawheelchair.co.uk">WriterInAWheelchair.co.uk</a> where it's now on Wordpress (again). <br /><br />There are still a few layout related tweaks I need to do but that's where you can find me from now on!<br /><br /><br />♥ Emma<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">All content copyright Emma Crees, 2006 - 2012 unless otherwise stated
http://writerinawheelchair.blogspot.com</div>Emmahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08965647190492385781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428128037504644507.post-24624174464170516772012-04-16T11:53:00.001+01:002012-04-16T11:53:45.116+01:00Things That I've Been ReadingI rather suspect I'll be doing a couple of these this month as I seem to be reading a lot at the moment and quickly too.<br /><br /><a href="#wedding">The Wedding Wallah by Farahad Zama</a><br /><br />This is the third in the Marriage Bureau for Rich People series. The series gets better with every book in my opinion. It's romantic without being overkill and it's easy and fun to read without being chick lit or ridiculously fluffy. I believe this was originally going to be called Not All Marriages Are Made In Heaven and I think that title makes more sense than The Wedding Wallah. I also missed the bright and cheerful covers of the previous two, this had a much more sedate and plain one. This covers more that just straight relationships, a change I was pleased to see. I'm looking forward to the next one.<br /><br /><a href="#body">Whose Body by Dorothy L Sayers</a><br /><br />I really enjoy these Lord Peter Wimsey mysteries. I didn't expect to like them as much as I do. This is the first in the series and whilst I've read several others this was the first time I've read this. Not my favourite of the ones I've read but a good read.<br /><br /><a href="#cloud">Cloud of Witness by Dorothy L Sayers </a><br /><br />This was a particularly good Lord Peter book. I love the characters in these books and the way they have a nice feel to them. They are who dunnits dealing with potentially gruesome and grizzly subjects in a way that is detailed enough without being scarily detailed or off putting. In this particular book it was nice to meet more of the Wimsey family as a part of the mystery. With all their foibles and quirks they are very real and loveable characters.<br /><br /><a href="#unnatural">Unnatural Death by Dorothy L Sayers</a><br /><br />Another visit to the life of Lord Peter. As always I really enjoyed it but in this case although the was it murder? line was intriguing I thought it was a little bit much in places. I guessed the how of things a few chapters before it was revealed but not the who or why.<br /><br /><a href="#stitches">In Stitches by Dr Nick Edwards</a><br /><br />Real life tales of a Dr working in A&E. Very interesting. I had a ridiculously late tea one day as I seriously lost track of time while reading it. I'd love to read a sequel. I'd also like to know what happened next to some of the patients but I guess being that it's A&E the staff never find out.<br /><br />♥ Emma<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">All content copyright Emma Crees, 2006 - 2012 unless otherwise stated
http://writerinawheelchair.blogspot.com</div>Emmahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08965647190492385781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428128037504644507.post-17344739179311016232012-04-15T23:57:00.001+01:002012-04-15T23:57:53.570+01:00iPad WoesI've been having technical problems this week hence the blog silence. The end result was I went to the genius bar at the apple store yesterday and they replaced my iPad. Good stuff.<br /><br />I didn't know that you need to make an appointment for the genius bar but they made me a standby appointment and saw me immediately. Not bad for a bit before 4 on a Saturday when the store was rammed.<br /><br />It's really weird. When I got home I synced it and there was a list in iTunes of every single app I've ever had on it. So I put a few back on that I've not used for a while and took one or two I hadn't been using off. I'd forgotten about some of the apps too. One of which I looked at, went "what the hell is this" put back on the iPad, played with for five minutes, decided it was shit and deleted again.<br /><br />Syncing it also brought up all of my bookmarks, web history and even the tabs I'd had open when I backed it up. Which I'd really not expected but is kind of cool. My saved passwords were there as well which I wasn't sure about from a security point of view. But perhaps I should have encrypted the back up.<br /><br />I do have one gripe about the process though. So far although I've got Pages (word equivalent) back on here, none of my files have reappeared. It's very frustrating because whilst I have a lot of it backed up on my blog (by dint of the fact that the majority of my Pages files are part of my 100 days of writing project), not all of them are. I think it's only one or two short files though.<br /><br />So far I've googled and not found a solution, but that said I've been busy busy today. Until mid afternoon when I got lost in a book for a good hour and then fell asleep for a bit. A proper hunt tomorrow me thinks.<br /><br />All in all I am very pleased with the process.<br /><br />Side note: I have been writing for my 100 days project but need to type them up. I'll get that sorted in the next couple of days and post them back dated.<br /><br /><br />♥ Emma<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">All content copyright Emma Crees, 2006 - 2012 unless otherwise stated
http://writerinawheelchair.blogspot.com</div>Emmahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08965647190492385781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428128037504644507.post-60560344595555276152012-04-11T23:52:00.001+01:002012-04-11T23:52:56.802+01:00I Was... #100daysofwritingThis is a tiny snapshot of my life this evening. I feel like I've got loads I'd like to be doing but in fact I've been reading blogs, playing Patchworks and Jumbline and googling random shit while The Apprentice and NCIS were on in the background. It was quite a busy day though. In other news I am getting very into NCIS. Although it was weird to watch a Christmas episode today.<br /><br />I was<br />All fired up<br />To write many words<br />Tonight was to be<br />The night I<br />Exceeded my<br />Word count<br />Instead it<br />Was yet another<br />Night where I spent<br />Too much time playing<br />Very addictive games<br />Oh well<br /><br /><br />♥ Emma<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">All content copyright Emma Crees, 2006 - 2012 unless otherwise stated
http://writerinawheelchair.blogspot.com</div>Emmahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08965647190492385781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428128037504644507.post-40148701046133142472012-04-10T23:56:00.001+01:002012-04-10T23:56:45.756+01:00Minor Frustrations #100daysofwritingI'm pretty frustrated now, probably needlessly. There were a few niggles that got a tiny bit out of hand this evening. One of those things were you just have to accept that the others involved are who they are and you can't change them. Which, obviously can be a tough thing to deal with.<br /><br />The situation this evening was nothing like as bad as this poem but it seemed to be the direction it (the poem) wanted to go in<br /><br />Many minor small things <br />Intensely interacting to a form a larger whole<br />Needlessly niggle away until<br />Organically outrageously and overwhelmingly<br />Rage ricochets around the room <br /><br />Fiercely frustrated yet over the top<br />Ranting raving people cause others to do the same<br />Understandably unctuous <br />Stresses simmers slowly<br />Then tempers erupt between usually good friends<br />Rules rarely broken<br />Are absolutely ridiculous right now and ignored<br />Trouble trying to stay calm<br />Inserting inspired opinions usually welcome is suddenly inappropriate<br />Overall overwhelmed by no one thing<br />Needlessly negative the event has become<br />Sadly selfishly everything is ruined for one and all.<br /><br /><br />♥ Emma<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">All content copyright Emma Crees, 2006 - 2012 unless otherwise stated
http://writerinawheelchair.blogspot.com</div>Emmahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08965647190492385781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428128037504644507.post-69402317624335095492012-04-09T22:17:00.000+01:002012-04-10T00:19:12.663+01:00Taking Back #100daysofwritiing #disabilityI am in the middle of writing a longer blog post about the language of disability. I saw a brilliant blog about the language of adoption and I've also been poking one of my friends gently about disability inclusion in her writing on a semi regular basis. The two things conspired to make me want to share some more thoughts on disability language.<br /><br />The following poem is for my 100 days of writing project and was meant to be at the end of the disability language entry. Which isn't finished and looks to be a long one. So this gets it's own separate entry.<br /><br />The words I use<br />To describe myself<br />Are right for me<br />And I have the right to choose<br /><br />If I want to say<br />I'm this<br />Or that<br />Today<br /><br />You can ask why<br />I use a term<br />I'll explain happily<br />Rather then let it pass by<br /><br />But please don't try<br />To tell me I'm not<br />Something I clearly am<br />If you don't like it tell me why<br /><br />I'm always happy to discuss<br />Disability language matters<br />I find other points of view interesting<br />And disagreeing won't make me cuss<br /><br />Language and disability are cause for much debate.<br />Not everyone agrees with everyone else<br />But in many was our diversity makes us stronger<br />Which for our community is really great<br /><br />Of who I am I am proud<br />So words like crip<br />And cripple and spastic<br />Are totally fantastic to say out loud<br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">All content copyright Emma Crees, 2006 - 2012 unless otherwise stated
http://writerinawheelchair.blogspot.com</div>Emmahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08965647190492385781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428128037504644507.post-78843198533273424582012-04-07T23:46:00.000+01:002012-04-08T00:48:53.023+01:00'twas the night before #EasterThis is in honour of Easter and the fact I wanted to do something more challenging than I have been. I tweeted earlier that I was writing something which would either be fucking genius or fucking ridiculous. This is that piece and I would love feedback on it.<br /><br />With apologies to the writer of the original<br /><br /><br />Twas the night before Easter<br />And all through the house<br />All creatures were stirring<br />(but thankfully there wasn't a mouse) <br />The eggs were placed<br />On the work top with care<br />In hopes the time to eat them<br />Soon would be there<br />This cripple was not<br />Tucked in her bed<br />Visions of chocolate danc'd in her head<br />A long nap or<br />A DVD with goodies in her lap instead<br />Dreaming interrupted by such a clatter<br />She had to go see what was the matter<br />Wheeled to the window in a flash<br />Didn't open the sash<br />(too cold)<br />The streetlights with their bright orange glow<br />Gave a weird look to those below<br />When what to her unsurprised eyes should appear?<br />Five drunks <br />(a regular occurrence this year)<br />She knew in a moment they'd be gone real quick<br />Hopefully before someone was sick<br />More rapid than eagles a straggler he came<br />Danced and pranced and shouted Easter egg names<br />"hey mars!" "oh Cadbury" "maltesers they'll do"<br />"now creme egg and then one with a mug too"<br />Too many to choose he didn't know what to do<br />To Sainsburys, to Tesco they'd visit them all!<br />As even Easter eggs in hurricanes can't fly<br /> an obstacle he couldn't get by<br />Down to the shops went the straggler (and his friends too) <br />In search of Easter eggs<br />Old favourites - and new<br />And then in a twinkling she heard one youth<br />Prancing and pawing (most uncouth)<br />As she drew in her head and was turning around<br />Back across the room went the crip in one bound<br />She was dressed all in black from her head to her foot<br />Her clothes all tarnish'd with food that she cook<br />A bundle of eggs on her wheelchair back<br />She looked like a child as she delved in the pack<br />Her eyes — how they twinkled! Her dimples: how merry,<br />Her cheeks were like roses, her nose like a cherry;<br />Her droll little mouth was drawn up like a bow,<br />The skin on her chin was covered in white chocolate you know<br />The last bite of Easter egg held tight in her teeth<br />The foil it encircled her chair like a wreath<br />She had a broad face, and a little round belly<br />That shook when she laugh'd, like a bowl full of jelly:<br />She was chubby and plump, a right jolly old elf,<br />You laugh'd when you saw her in spite of yourself<br />A wink of her eye and a twist of her head<br />For watchers to know they had nothing to dread<br />She spoke not a word but went straight to work<br />Put out Easter treats then turn'd with a jerk<br />And laying her finger aside of her nose<br />And giving a nod, out the room she goes<br />She went to her bed giving a whistle<br />To sleep she fell fast like a missile<br />But you heard her exclaim, as she turned out the light—<br />Happy Easter to all, and to all a good night.<br /><br /> <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />♥ Emma<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">All content copyright Emma Crees, 2006 - 2012 unless otherwise stated
http://writerinawheelchair.blogspot.com</div>Emmahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08965647190492385781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428128037504644507.post-57228732128071934902012-04-07T18:17:00.001+01:002012-04-07T18:17:21.257+01:00Reaching Crisis Point #disability<i> NOTE: I'm ok but I wanted to write about this because I thought it was important. I kept talking myself out of doing so which is why its taken me two weeks to get round to it. I found it pretty hard to write and it's quite long and I think raw.</i><br /><br />Two weeks ago (give or take) I stuck some jacket potatoes on to cook. I went off and did a few bits including putting some washing in the dryer. I'd been in my powerchair for most of the day and after doing that (my powerchair lives in front of the dryer) I went to transfer back into my manual. <br /><br />As I parked the Quickie I idly noticed that my potatoes had just under an hour left to cook. I wasn't bothered and was planning to finish reading my book whilst waiting. I stood up and took the few steps I needed to turn and sit in my manual. Whilst standing facing my manual I put my arms on the seat for support.<br /><br />It was at that point that I realised that having moved it since getting out of it that morning I'd not put the brakes on properly. The chair went flying back. I scrabbled a bit but unsurprisingly hit the floor. Hard. And I scrapped my right arm pretty badly as I did so. Caught it on the chair, I think on a footplate.<br /><br />I lay there face down on the floor and considered the fact that I was bloody stupid. And then I noticed where something I'd misplaced was. I'd been meaning to ask someone to look and see if it had gone under a unit but now I wouldn't need to because I could see for myself that's where it was. I could reach it too. and did so. I decided that I'd be able to get a pretty decent "you know you've got CP when..." entry for my blog out of this.<br /><br />All the while I was staying on the floor because I was having clonus and also I needed a minute to regroup. eventually I knew I'd regrouped as far as I could whilst on the floor and my clonus had stopped. So I started manoeuvring myself into a position where I could try and get on my knees and up into my chair. I can almost always eventually get myself up after a fall.<br /><br />I lost track of the number of attempts I made. I just couldn't do it. <br /><br />If I got myself onto my knees I couldn't lift my chest off the ground. And if I got myself sat up I then couldn't get onto my knees. I think twice I got myself into exactly the right position to get up but still couldn't. My legs felt incredibly tight. A touch of extension I think.<br /><br />I got myself sat in the doorway leaning against the doorframe with my legs flat out in front of me. That felt like a really good stretch and I made the decision to stay there for five minutes or so and rest. Five minutes up I tried and failed again. Noticing that there were now less than 20 minutes until my potatoes would be done I realised it was time to admit defeat.<br /><br />Ever since my old phone went missing in January I've had the new one on a lanyard around my neck. Only the lanyard was broken. And I had no pockets in my clothes. Luckily I knew where it was and was able to pull myself on my tummy (by rocking from side to side) to grab it from my bag. I called my mum and said those words I so hate<br /><br />"I've fallen and I can't get up"<br /><br />She replied<br /><br />"I'll send your father.". Her stock reply for situations such as these. Falls, vomit, changing my bed and cutting my toe nails all fall in that situation.<br /><br />I propped myself up in the door frame until what felt like ages later I heard my dads key in the lock. It can't have taken more than five minutes or so but it felt longer and I will admit just before he arrived I was beginning to be a bit "where the hell is he." <br /><br />Then he arrived and I apologised profusely and repeatedly for the problem. I also requested he do something with my dinner before trying to help me up as I didn't want it to burn. I've got my priorities you see and at that point being on the floor wasn't a big deal. He said they weren't quite done and turned the oven down, amused at my concern.<br /><br />Always, unless I've fallen somewhere unsafe (like when I got tipped out of my chair on the pontoon at sailing and there wasn't safe space for me to try) if I can't get myself up I just need help of one person. Always.<br /><br />I lost track of the number times he tried to help me up. We tried a few different ways, using a pillow to stop it being so high, taking the cushion out of my wheelchair for the same reason (the front of my Jay 2 has a pommel which makes it higher than the rest and being that it's a deep contour cushion it's pretty deep already.). He also insisted on trying to swing me from sitting to standing which I didn't want him too as I was worried about his back. My feet were slipping all over as well, compounding the problem. I got very tired and ridiculously breathless with the exertion. I've since been told by my mum that Dad thought I was going to have a heart attack. I find that incredibly upsetting and I cried when she told me.<br /><br />Eventually he said he'd call my brother for help. Grabbing my cordless phone he wandered into my bedroom and called him. And then called my mum explaining what was Happening.<br /><br />Returning to me he got me some water and then he said<br /><br />"mum asked if you were ok. I said you were. Are you?"<br /><br />I had to smile at that because that's my family through and through.<br /><br />It took my brother at least ten minutes to get to me. He brought his fiancé with him. I once again apologised repeatedly to all and them the two of the tried to help me in my chair I think twice. Neither worked. <br /><br />Geri was feeling bad that she didn't know what to do to help and I asked her to do something with my dinner (those priorities again...). After a brief regroup moment Ben suggested that trying to get me on my bed might be better. It would give us a bigger area to aim for. <br /><br />He grabbed my arms and dragged me lying on my tummy through the hall and to my bed. From that point of view it was lucky I wasn't in the lounge when I fell. They managed to get me on my knees propped on the bed and it felt much more secure than when they did it with my chair. There was a brief right let's try and get you standing comment but I suggested if they could they just manhandle me onto the bed like that.<br /><br />And finally nearly two hours after I fell I was lying face down on my bed. Safe.<br /><br />Although squawking for someone to please move my foot quickly from where it had ended up as it was on top of one of the decorative bits at the end of the bed. ouch. <br />Geri brought me a drink and I rested there for several minutes. Then Dad brought my manual over and helped me into it.<br /><br /> We chatted for a few minutes and I sat my brother in the powerchair and used to riser to lift him up. They were very impressed and he was a little freaked our I think! Dad chucked my potatoes on a plate and with yet more apologies I sent them off with thanks leaving me to finally eat my tea and call my mum.<br /><br />My arm was covered in really bad bruises for over a week. many people asked about them in a "oh my god" type way. I ached a lot for a day or two and my knees hurt for longer. Emotionally I was a bit of a mess because I knew that I had done this to myself and it was my weight that had caused it.<br /><br />Things weren't helped by a ridiculous access fail the next day and by something very valuable going missing from my house a couple of days later. Ive definitely been struggling hard lately.<br /><br />Mum said that in all weight loss stories you read there's a crisis point that the person reaches that made them realise they have to lose weight. This was mine. <br /><br />Someday I'll fall again, it's a fact of CP life. I don't ever want to feel that helpless like that again. And I definitely don't want to scare my family that badly again.<br /><br />I made a phone appointment with my GP. I told her what had happened and requested an OT assessment. As we were saying goodbye she said "are you ok other than your bruises?"<br /><br />And I said "Yes I am...well, you know..."<br /><br />She replies "yeah I know."<br /><br />Because she knows me and knows if it has to do with CP I'd swear blind I was ok even if I was dying. Because I don't let CP stop me.<br /><br />This is a hard entry for me to write. I almost didn't amt to in case people felt sorry for me. And because I thought it was sound absolutely fucking terrible and it wasn't.<br /><br />Except... The truth it hurts me to admit is... it was probably the worst fall I've ever had. It scared me so much. And I've gone from "falls happen" to really worried I'll fall again.<br /><br />That's not a way I want to live. <br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">All content copyright Emma Crees, 2006 - 2012 unless otherwise stated
http://writerinawheelchair.blogspot.com</div>Emmahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08965647190492385781noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428128037504644507.post-56682690051743886802012-04-07T00:12:00.001+01:002012-04-07T00:12:37.740+01:00DeclarationMy mood is somewhat better today; I actually feel like I've achieved some stuff which helps. <br /><br />I have a positive looking outcome to an access issue I flagged on the horizon and as that was one of the things that made things tough the other week it's a help to move things forward. My bruises from my fall are completely gone and a plan is in place to hopefully lessen the impact of future falls (so long as I can avoid falling in the next month or so) I REALLY must blog about that. The third crap thing I think will never be resolved but I've almost finished doing everything that needs doing to take it as far as I can. So I'm getting there and moving forward.<br /><br />All of that crap and I haven't shed a single tear over any of it. Amazing. Take a bow, sertraline.<br /><br />This is my attempt at a funny poem. I like it but I think it isn't good at the funny part.<br /><br />This is a declaration<br />A declaration<br />Or perhaps<br />A proclamation<br />I'm not sure<br />Which<br /><br />But it is my intention<br />To provide<br />This information<br />In a decisive way<br /><br />Information <br />Shared across<br />The nation<br />With the intention<br />Of it being<br />A declaration<br />Or perhaps<br />A proclamation<br /><br />Should be taken seriously<br />But now <br />it's time to mention<br />That I've lost my train<br />Of thought<br />It's gone<br />Never to be<br />Caught<br /><br />So<br />This is my declaration<br />Or<br />My proclamation<br />(the difference was<br />lacking from<br />my education)<br />Containing <br />Important<br />Information<br />To be shared across<br />The nation<br /><br />Stop listening<br />To me<br />And go on<br />Vacation<br />Or just have<br />Your tea.<br /><br /><br />♥ Emma<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">All content copyright Emma Crees, 2006 - 2012 unless otherwise stated
http://writerinawheelchair.blogspot.com</div>Emmahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08965647190492385781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428128037504644507.post-50112958333910737082012-04-05T23:46:00.000+01:002012-04-06T00:58:29.018+01:00The 3 Rs #fridayreads #amreadingI've had a really lazy day doing lots of reading amongst other things. I kept thinking I'll read one more chapter then I'll do something else but that usually turned into three or four more at least.<br /><br />I have so many unread books (both actual books and ebooks) that over a few days I considered all of them. I then declared a book buying ban and made a list of books. I am not buying any more books until I've read or at least attempted all of those. Although I did buy two books when I was writing the thing.<br /><br />There are 35 books on the list, I've since finished two and hope to finish one or two more over Easter (a lot of them are short - I deliberately listed those as they are quick and will make a big dent in my TBR pile). I reckon at least 10 of the books have around 200 pages so providing they aren't hard going I could read one of them in a day or so. Of course I do have library books out at the moment and didn't list those...<br /><br />I anticipate taking at least three months to read the list, probably longer. I doubt it will be less but who knows.<br /><br /><br />Reading<br />Writing<br />Arithmetic<br />The 3 Rs<br />They were<br />Called at<br />School<br /><br />Kinda amusing<br />Looking back<br />When you think<br />Only one<br />Begins with <br />R<br /><br />That's probably <br />Why<br />Literacy<br />And<br />Numeracy<br />Are what<br />Teachers<br />Say<br />Today<br /><br />Two of<br />The Rs<br />Are my<br />Hobbies<br />I've spent<br />The day <br />Reading<br />And now<br />I'm writing<br /><br />School made<br />Them fun<br />But I'm<br />Not sure<br />I'd get<br />So much<br />Enjoyment<br />Out of literacy<br /><br />As I do<br />From<br />Reading<br />And<br />Writing<br /><br />(you can do<br />What you<br />Like with<br />Arithmetic)<br /><br /><br />♥ Emma<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">All content copyright Emma Crees, 2006 - 2012 unless otherwise stated
http://writerinawheelchair.blogspot.com</div>Emmahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08965647190492385781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428128037504644507.post-13924746284282002382012-04-04T23:25:00.001+01:002012-04-04T23:25:57.783+01:00I have no idea what to title this but it's basically crack!ficThe following is 273 words of what, if it were fanfiction, could only be called crack!fic I have no idea why it turned out like it did or what I was thinking. It was written in the breaks of a brilliant episode of NCIS and I've just been sat here trying to rescue it before admitting that I'm too tired and giving up. Thems the facts and my only excuse.<br /><br /><br />It's April. And it's raining. Hardly surprising, given that it's what the whole month is known for. April showers. Given the name showers though this isn't what they'd been expecting. The better name for this would be torrential. Because it was. The sort of rain where even with waterproofs and an umbrella you're soaked through after less than two minutes. Completely soaked through. Down to your knickers. <br /><br />At least you would be, were you wearing them. That was the one thing he was pleased about. That he wasn't wearing knickers. All of his knickers were really expensive flimsy ones (sometimes he thought that the more you paid the less you actually got. That had been one of the more shocking revelations he'd experienced as an adult. We won't talk about the most shocking revelation. He doesn't think about that if he can help it). He doesn't usually think of his childhood with fond memories and he was definitely very relieved when it was over and done with. But there were one or two things that he will admit we're better or at least easier in his childhood years. Knickers are one of the better things of being an adult. Having to pay ridiculous sums of money for clothes and especially for knickers is one of the worst. Especially given the fact that his knickers were dry clean only. Rain would destroy them he was sure.<br /><br />Going commando under his jeans was something he'd never done before. He wasn't sure he'd do it again. It was weird. Very weird. But it was definitely better than ruining his knickers in those so called April showers... <br /><br />♥ Emma<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">All content copyright Emma Crees, 2006 - 2012 unless otherwise stated
http://writerinawheelchair.blogspot.com</div>Emmahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08965647190492385781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428128037504644507.post-73883154703924201172012-04-03T23:46:00.001+01:002012-04-03T23:46:03.471+01:00Elephant Handling #100daysofwritingToday has been a good day (the best I've had in a while) and I feel like I've got a lot done. It got away from me a little though and not only did I not get the non writing blog update I wanted to do done I didn't have the time to do justice to the writing prompt a friend gave me.<br /><br />This is quite possibly the silliest piece I've done for this challenge. It was inspired by a tv advert - the one where the guy is riding an elephant and the VoiceOver says "it takes years to master driving one of these.". I think it might be for HSBC? It was on in the background when I was starting my writing.<br /><br />It takes years to master elephant handling,<br /><br />That was the very first line in the handbook he'd just received and pulled eagerly from its Amazon box. A dire warning but Dan refused to be put off by that. This was something he'd always wanted to do and whilst he knew it wasn't going to be a walk in the park he didn't think it was going to be as hard as they appeared to be implying it was. He'd master it and wouldn't be put off. No siree not when he'd been preparing for this moment for his entire life. No one had ever been more prepared to start this training course than he was.<br /><br />But he did wonder what elephant handling had to with being a bin man in the centre of London.<br /><br /><br />♥ Emma<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">All content copyright Emma Crees, 2006 - 2012 unless otherwise stated
http://writerinawheelchair.blogspot.com</div>Emmahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08965647190492385781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428128037504644507.post-8757363944160361142012-04-02T23:51:00.001+01:002012-04-02T23:51:26.460+01:00Rose - a character sketch and maybe a beginning #100daysofwritingThis is something I may use in a longer piece. My intention had been to do a character sketch of sorts but actually having finished it I'm wondering if the situation I've placed Rose in doesn't have more merit than Rose herself. It's very much meant to be a straw that broke the camels back situation but I'm not sure how well that comes across.<br /><br />Cold. It's really cold. Dark too. Even though it's been a good day Rose is in a bad mood now. She's a tolerant person and it takes a lot to make her angry or even just wind her up a little. But this has. She's tired and it's been a long day. Plus, she's struggling with that horrible letdown like feeling that comes after a day that was either much anticipated or great fun, and this day was both. Rose knows that the solution is to plan something else that she can look forward too. A little bit of hope on the horizon of the dreary grey landscape that is the daily grind of work, home, bed, repeat as necessary. A lighthouse guiding her through the storm to the next safe harbour. The trouble is she doesn't want to be made to feel better. Even the most optimistic and positive person needs to wallow a bit now and then. And smashing the jar of peanut butter you'd been planning to put on your toast (it would have been just the thing to round off her perfect day) is a perfectly adequate reason to do so. Some would even say a great reason. And Rose was very much one of these people (Rose's author however is not. In fact, The Author, is one of those allegedly rare people who can't stand the stuff)<br /><br /><br />♥ Emma<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">All content copyright Emma Crees, 2006 - 2012 unless otherwise stated
http://writerinawheelchair.blogspot.com</div>Emmahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08965647190492385781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428128037504644507.post-76905112178458417822012-04-01T23:59:00.000+01:002012-04-02T21:05:39.635+01:00Some words #100daysofwritingI was thinking about my writing and how it takes on a life of its own. Often I think I'll go one way with it but once I start writing there's another idea that comes to mind. Or it becomes clear that something I'd dismissed is much more important than I anticipated. The other part of that is when bits I thought were silly or stupid are strong or otherwise good when it comes to reading back.<br /><br />I've lost track of what day this is but being that April 28th is day 100, I think today is day 74 of 100.<br /><br /><b>Some Words</b><br /><br />Some words<br />Scribbled Quickly<br />On a page<br /><br />The times <br />Of a train<br />A shopping list<br />A note<br />Just popped<br />Next door<br /><br />Some words<br />Scribbled quickly<br />On a page<br /><br />Perhaps<br />An address<br />Phone number<br />Email or<br />Appointment<br /><br />Some words<br />Scribbled quickly<br />On a page<br /><br />Dismissed as<br />Unimportant<br />Or as<br />Just a<br />Note to self<br /><br />Some words<br />Scribbled quickly<br />On a page<br /><br />It's easy<br />To overlook<br />Words<br />And especially<br />Writing<br /><br />Some words<br />Scribbled quickly<br />On a page<br /><br />A mistake<br />And a habit<br />I hope<br />You'll break<br /><br />Some words<br />Scribbled quickly<br />On a page<br /><br />Can turn out<br />To be<br />So much more<br />On a <br />Second look<br /><br />Some words<br />Scribbled quickly<br />On a page<br /><br />If you<br />Open your mind<br />You might find<br />On that<br />Second look<br />They're more<br />Perhaps even<br />The start of<br />A book<br /><br /><br /><br />♥ Emma<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">All content copyright Emma Crees, 2006 - 2012 unless otherwise stated
http://writerinawheelchair.blogspot.com</div>Emmahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08965647190492385781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428128037504644507.post-85117229116812463402012-03-31T22:59:00.001+01:002012-03-31T23:02:13.197+01:00You Know You've Got CP When...Someone shows you a new disabled changing room and you get really excited and describe it as amazing.<br />The start of sailing supper was last night. Sailing itself starts on 10th April. And yesterday was a chance to socialise, catch up and just generally be together after the long winter break. It was a lot of fun and it was nice after a horrible week to be with friends I've not seen for months.<br />I popped to the loo before we left. And when I came out my Dad was talking to one of the volunteers. He called for me to come and see. I wheeled over to a new bit of the building. Part that hadn't been there before. I hadn't known they were doing building work over the winter but when I saw it I figured it was teaching rooms or similar.<br />I imagine part of it probably is. But the bit they wanted me to see was an amazing disabled changing room.<br />It was probably the best set up I've seen in a place that isn't all crip, all the time. And even better than a lot of those.<br />It was huge. As big as my lounge if not bigger. <br />It had a loo with a track hoist over it. An adapted shower. A bed. An area to sit with a hair dryer at the right level and hooks at the right place. Loads of grab rails. An alarm cord (I forget if it's in the right place or not). <br />Masses of space in between for turning and people to help if needed. A swing door so you can get in and out easily.<br />And it has a mirror. <br />A nice, big, well placed mirror.<br />So many disabled toilets and changing rooms don't have mirrors. Or they do but at standing height. And I even know of one that has the mirror much too low!<br />It's a small thing. But it's also a big thing<br />Because not only was that new changing room designed by someone who has thought things through and done a good job.<br />It was done by someone who knows that crips like to check their hair when they pop to the loo just like non disabled people do.<br />Mirror, mirror<br />On the wall<br />Whose the fairest<br />Of them all?<br />Ok, it's not me<br />But I'm happy<br />I can look and see<br />Unusual<br />For this wheelie<br />With CP<br />A mirror is small<br />Most people<br />Give them no<br />Thought at all<br />In a disabled loo<br />It's something new<br />It feels like going the<br />Extra mile<br />And it's made me smile<br />That they thought<br />A mirror <br />(in the right place)<br />Was worthwhile <br />That I'd like<br />To see my face.<br />♥ Emma<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">All content copyright Emma Crees, 2006 - 2012 unless otherwise stated<br />http://writerinawheelchair.blogspot.com</div><br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">All content copyright Emma Crees, 2006 - 2012 unless otherwise stated
http://writerinawheelchair.blogspot.com</div>Emmahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08965647190492385781noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428128037504644507.post-3964700654039801152012-03-30T16:10:00.001+01:002012-03-30T16:10:05.268+01:00Missing: One SmileI've lost<br />My smile<br /><br />Last seen<br />On Tuesday<br />Sitting in<br />The sunshine<br />Eating a picnic<br />Of sorts.<br /><br />But then<br />Without warning<br />A painful blow<br />Struck<br />Trust was<br />Broken<br />And<br />My smile<br />Went missing<br /><br />It's not behind <br />The sofa<br />Hiding in<br />The kitchen<br />Or lurking under<br />My bed<br />I checked.<br /><br />I was definitely<br />At home<br />The last time<br />I saw it<br />And my parents<br />Double checked<br />My bins.<br /><br />My smile is<br />Gone<br />We just can't <br />Find it<br />Unsurprising<br />Given the<br />Mood I'm in<br /><br />It's weird without<br />My smile<br />Horrid that<br />I can't even grin<br />I wouldn't <br />Know<br />Where to<br />Begin<br /><br />And as for a smirk<br />I imagine that's<br />On the face<br />Of the smile thief<br />Because it isn't<br />On mine<br />It's just too much <br />Work.<br /><br />There are<br />Glimmers<br />Of hope<br />Snippets<br />Of good news<br />Bring a fleeting<br />Return<br />But my smile is<br />Scared<br />Needs more<br />Than I've got<br />To return<br />For good<br /><br />My smile<br />Is missing<br />If found,<br />Please return<br />To me<br /><br /><br /><br />♥ Emma<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">All content copyright Emma Crees, 2006 - 2012 unless otherwise stated
http://writerinawheelchair.blogspot.com</div>Emmahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08965647190492385781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428128037504644507.post-73602778498966036342012-03-29T17:19:00.000+01:002012-03-30T18:17:41.667+01:00How Dare You #100daysofwriting #disabilityYou ask me<br />How I dare<br />Do what I do?<br /><br />Be it<br />Live alone<br />Go out<br />Volunteer<br />Swim<br />Knit<br />Survive<br />Thrive<br /><br />You tell<br />Me<br />You couldn't<br />Do it.<br />You wouldn't<br />Dare.<br /><br />So it seems<br />I'm brave<br />For going<br />To the supermarket<br />The library<br />And even<br />The post office<br />But especially<br />For laughing<br />Living<br />And loving<br /><br />The truth is<br />I <br />Have <br />one choice<br />Do it<br />Or not<br />And if<br />I<br />Don't<br />No one will<br />Do it for me<br /><br />But it<br />Takes<br />Friendship<br />Support<br />Understanding<br />Help<br />And trust<br /><br />For me<br />To do<br />What I do<br />Be independent<br />Successful<br />Outgoing<br />And<br />All I am<br />It takes a village<br /><br />And so I want to know<br />How YOU dare<br />Take advantage<br />Of me<br />Destroy<br />My trust<br />Hurt me<br />Make me <br />Feel crap<br />And<br />Really<br />Pissed off<br /><br />You've always<br />Said I'm brave<br />Incredibly Strong<br />Inspirational<br />And so many<br />Other things<br /><br /> I dare do things<br />You wouldn't<br />Because I<br />Have no choice<br /><br />But I'm not<br />Brave enough<br />To say this<br />To your<br />Face<br />How dare you?<br />How dare you?<br />How dare you<br />Do what you did?<br /><br />I might be<br />Strong<br />(although I'm<br />Not always<br />Sure that's so)<br />But not <br />Incredibly so<br />As you make out<br /><br />The truth is<br />You're a<br /> coward<br />Because only a<br />Coward<br />Would do <br />What you did<br />I hope it<br />Haunts you<br />A secret <br />Of which<br />You'll<br />Never be<br />Rid<br /><br /><br />♥ Emma<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">All content copyright Emma Crees, 2006 - 2012 unless otherwise stated
http://writerinawheelchair.blogspot.com</div>Emmahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08965647190492385781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428128037504644507.post-8329666135681513902012-03-28T23:43:00.001+01:002012-03-28T23:43:09.963+01:00This Character #100daysofwritingA character sketch. Shorter than I intended and missing a couple of bits I'd thought of writing. But as often happens my writing took on a life of its own and went where it wanted to. I consider this a very good thing!<br /><br />This character is a strong one. They've got a lot to say and usually they aren't afraid to say so. At the same time there's a lot of things they'd like to say but keep quiet. Hiding those thoughts and feelings deep inside for fear of people not understanding what they mean, of potential ridicule and worst of all of pity. <br /><br />Not many people know this character very well. In part that's because life's been tough on them and left them different. Differences that people can see and that mean assumptions are made about who the character is by people who then write them off without a first thought, let alone a second. <br /><br />They've been left with more differences than the visible. Those hidden differences are the worst. They mean that this character doesn't trust easily, never really believes people want to be their friend. That they get scared and push people away much too often. They know how their real friends are though. Real friends are the ones who push back. Who end up wrestling on the floor with the character in a long, sweaty match which ends with both exhausted but clear on who the winner is. Or rather what the winner is. Because in those wrestling matches? Friendship comes out the winner. Always. Exactly as it should<br /><br /><br /><br />♥ Emma<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">All content copyright Emma Crees, 2006 - 2012 unless otherwise stated
http://writerinawheelchair.blogspot.com</div>Emmahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08965647190492385781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428128037504644507.post-55999763623884881562012-03-27T22:23:00.001+01:002012-03-27T22:23:28.023+01:00Kick in the teethNot my usual positive self today. Lots going on, plenty of positive and fun things but also several kicks in the teeth lately. <br /><br />A very bad fall at the weekend (literally the second worst I've ever had) means I have a really badly bruised and sore arm, knees and other bits. I've no idea how I didn't break something. Access issues that were totally unexpected but could have been avoided with thought on others part forced cancelled plans. And a few small niggles.<br /><br /><br /><br />Apparently<br />There's a sign<br />On my back<br />That says<br />Come to me<br />Kick me<br />I'm the target<br />For all<br />Disability related<br />Crap<br /><br />Or so it seems<br />I'd be on my knees<br />But I can't do that<br />Physically<br />I am in my dreams<br />But that's not<br />What everyone <br />Sees<br /><br />I've often<br />Talked about the good<br />And sometimes the bad<br />Maybe not as often as I should<br />I've tried<br />To see the best <br />Whenever I could<br />Look inside<br />Look beyond<br />Try to see<br />If this is one<br />Of the times I've lied<br />And to see that which<br />I sometimes hide.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />♥ Emma<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">All content copyright Emma Crees, 2006 - 2012 unless otherwise stated
http://writerinawheelchair.blogspot.com</div>Emmahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08965647190492385781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428128037504644507.post-68727855177887165022012-03-26T23:47:00.001+01:002012-03-26T23:47:13.081+01:00An unusual sight #dohmonday #withtheband #100daysofwriting<br />Today was better than I expected and I had the opportunity to take time out in the middle of my busy day. I read in the sunshine for just under an hour and finished reading my book then took a shower before continuing my day. <br /><br /> Time to just be, it was perfect. That's what I wanted from my disconnected day at the weekend but it didn't happen. Disconnecting did but life kicked me in the teeth so there was angst and little chilling<br /><br />Plus, I had my last counselling session. <br /><br />They were both doses of happy for me today.<br /><br />And now, a poem<br /><br />Dark sky<br />Bright lights<br />Cars stream past<br />Keep going fast<br />Life never stops<br />Even when the sun drops<br /><br />The pull of life<br />Can cause strife<br />Always needed to be there<br />No time for self care<br />Until one night<br />There came an unusual sight<br /><br />People were few<br />As though they knew<br />It would be best<br />To rest<br />And lay their sleepy heads<br />On their beds<br /><br />♥ Emma<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">All content copyright Emma Crees, 2006 - 2012 unless otherwise stated
http://writerinawheelchair.blogspot.com</div>Emmahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08965647190492385781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428128037504644507.post-73654454083090858162012-03-25T22:39:00.001+01:002012-03-25T22:39:44.864+01:00Over ItI've had shed loads of crap happen this weekend. Pretty much all disability related too. And although I have managed to resurrect some of the weekend my plans for Friday night and yesterday were completely derailed in separate incidents. Add in a major case of can't be arsed about something I have to do tomorrow and it's fair to say my mood isn't great.<br /><br /><b>Over It</b><br /><br />Over it.<br />I'm over it<br />Definitely<br />I'm not <br />beside it<br />Behind it<br />Underneath it<br />On top of it<br />In front of it<br />On its left<br />Or on its right.<br />I'm just<br />Over it.<br />Had enough<br />Done with it<br />Can't be bothered<br />Tomorrow isn't<br />Even here yet<br />But it can<br />Happen <br />without me<br />I'm over<br />Everything that's planned<br />If you're supposed<br />To see me<br />Tomorrow<br />You'll have to <br />Pretend<br />Because I'm<br />Over it<br />And as such<br />I think<br />I'll sleep<br />Until Tuesday<br />Or perhaps<br />Longer.<br />I might be<br />Over Tuesday<br />Too<br />Who knows?<br /><br /><br />♥ Emma<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">All content copyright Emma Crees, 2006 - 2012 unless otherwise stated
http://writerinawheelchair.blogspot.com</div>Emmahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08965647190492385781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428128037504644507.post-51048550335245095632012-03-25T16:28:00.001+01:002012-03-25T16:28:26.523+01:00Things That I've Been Reading #fridayreads #amreadingI hardly read anything in February so didn't write one of these. Here's what I've been reading (other than book review books) since January.<br /><br /><a href="#pearl">The Pearl by John Steinbeck</a><br /><br />This is a very quick book I picked up in the Library. Beautifully written as all Steinbeck's books are it really makes you think about greed, about life in earlier times and what matters. I read it in one sitting ( it's about 90 pages) and really enjoyed it. One from the 1001 books list.<br /><br />Other than the one book I reviewed, a few pages of The Swimming Pool Library (couldn't get into it) and a bunch of short stories that's all I read in February. I did start listening to the audiobook of The Graduate but kept falling asleep during it so gave up.<br /><br /><a href="#beloved">Beloved by Toni Morrison</a><br /><br />This is another library book and one of the 1001 books. The first I've read by Toni Morrison. I absolutely loved it. It really reminded me of The Colour Purple both in plot and in style / feel. I've since picked up another of hers from the library and think she'll be a new favourite. One bit part character is referred to as Hi Man. Which I kept reading as He Man, child of the eighties that I am. <br /><br /><a href="#confessions">Confessions of a Karaoke Queen by Ella Kingsley</a><br /><br />I won this in a competition. Silly, fluffy, a little unrealistic but very fun chick lit. Well written and enjoyable. The chapters all have song titles and I enjoyed seeing which I remembered or recognised.<br /><br /><a href="#wolf">Lone Wolf by Jodi Picoult</a><br /><br />Having gone off of Jodi Picoult books a bit (feeling they'd got a bit same-y) I was going to wait for the paperback. But I got it in such a good offer there was no point waiting. I thought she was back on form here and it kept me gripped throughout. There were a few bits that I thought were stupid and one that would never happen that was in there for drama. That annoyed me as it could have been done differently without affecting the plot as a whole.<br /><br /><a href="#peach">The Peach Keeper by Sarah Addison Allen</a><br /><br />A friend lent me this authors first two books after I said I like Joanne Harris books. These are certainly very similar in feel to Blackberry Wine/ Chocolat etc. I've since had her next two out the library. Another I read very quickly in two days (and two sittings). It's just so well written and lovely and feel good that although I kept meaning to stop and do washing etc I never did! I highly recommend The Peach Keeper as I think it's the best of her four novels but they are all very good.<br /><br />♥ Emma<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">All content copyright Emma Crees, 2006 - 2012 unless otherwise stated
http://writerinawheelchair.blogspot.com</div>Emmahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08965647190492385781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428128037504644507.post-42981455513286074152012-03-24T23:56:00.001+00:002012-03-24T23:56:29.192+00:00Snotty Letter #disability #100daysofwritingIt's time<br />
For a<br />
Snotty Letter<br />
<br />
It's time<br />
To show<br />
Why I've<br />
Got my <br />
Rep<br />
<br />
People say<br />
I've a<br />
BAD ATTITUDE<br />
<br />
Or that<br />
They never<br />
Met a<br />
More ungrateful<br />
Little Madam<br />
<br />
The fact <br />
Is I've <br />
Got rights<br />
<br />
Unthinking changes<br />
Allegedly to<br />
Help staff<br />
Ruined my<br />
Day out<br />
<br />
So it's<br />
Snotty Letter<br />
Time again<br />
<br />
The staff<br />
Were great<br />
They hate<br />
The change<br />
As well<br />
<br />
I had <br />
To laugh<br />
At that<br />
<br />
I said<br />
This thing<br />
Is shit<br />
They said<br />
We know!!!<br />
<br />
Impossible problems<br />
No solution<br />
No excuses<br />
<br />
I'll be<br />
Polite yet<br />
Very firm<br />
Insisted on<br />
Advertised access<br />
<br />
Bite my <br />
Tongue and<br />
Think first<br />
<br />
It was<br />
Very disappointing<br />
Needed better<br />
Planning and<br />
User consultation<br />
<br />
Snotty annoyed<br />
And not<br />
Snotty screaming<br />
<br />
What the<br />
Fuck were<br />
You thinking?<br />
Fucking ridiculous<br />
And unnecessary<br />
<br />
My friends<br />
Helped rescue<br />
My day<br />
Park picnics<br />
Cafe drinks<br />
<br />
But that<br />
Won't make <br />
Snotty Letter<br />
<br />
If asking<br />
For my<br />
Rights means<br />
People don't<br />
Like me<br />
<br />
That's fine<br />
I've never<br />
Been afraid<br />
<br />
Secretly I <br />
Hate it<br />
If I<br />
Weren't disabled<br />
They'd listen <br />
<br />
Crips stereotypes<br />
Cause offence<br />
To all<br />
<br />
<br />
I ask <br />
To be<br />
Treated the<br />
Same as <br />
Other people<br />
<br />
I'm good<br />
At advocacy<br />
Being heard<br />
<br />
But really<br />
I just <br />
Want to<br />
Visit Swindon<br />
Not Oxford<br />
<br />
I hope<br />
Someday disability<br />
Won't be<br />
A reason<br />
To think<br />
<br />
It's time<br />
For a snotty<br />
Letter<br />
<br />
But sadly<br />
And stressfully<br />
That day<br />
Is not<br />
Today<br />
<br />
<div class="blogger-post-footer">All content copyright Emma Crees, 2006 - 2012 unless otherwise stated
http://writerinawheelchair.blogspot.com</div>Emmahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08965647190492385781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428128037504644507.post-57469654349417247502012-03-23T16:20:00.001+00:002012-03-23T16:20:57.985+00:00The National Day of Unplugging #unplug #100daysofwriting<br />I've just discovered that <a target="_blank" href="http://www.sabbathmanifesto.org/unplug/faq">The National Day of Unplugging</a> is from sundown tonight to sundown tomorrow.<br /><br />I always used to take periodic time away from my computer and the net. a day or two. For a whole year I did it at least once a month. But I haven't gone an entire day since I got my iPad in July last year. Maybe even longer. And by coincidence I'd been thinking that I really need a day off from it all. I'd thought that I'd take tomorrow, but I said the same thing about last Saturday and a day a few weeks ago and never managed it either day.<br /><br />So I'm declaring here and now: It's the National Day of Unplugging from sunset. And I'm in.<br /><br /> <b>Disconnect</b><br /><br />Day of being out there, real not virtual<br />Idyllic time to be away from the screen rest, inspire, create<br />Screens free me but also suffocate with pressure<br />Controlling access stops it controlling me<br />On everyday, on all the time, only not this day<br />Never gone for more than hours fearing missing out<br />Need to say not today, need to be without<br />Eager to disconnect, will I be as eager to reconnect?<br />Creative, content, cleansed, chilled are all things I hope it will be<br />Tonight, for twenty four hours my computer screens go black and blank<br /><br /><br /><br />♥ Emma<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">All content copyright Emma Crees, 2006 - 2012 unless otherwise stated
http://writerinawheelchair.blogspot.com</div>Emmahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08965647190492385781noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-428128037504644507.post-19745413590132154042012-03-22T23:56:00.001+00:002012-03-22T23:56:15.576+00:00Graceful Elegance #100daysofwritingSun shining bright<br />
Bluest sky for months<br />
Filled with red kites<br />
Flying and swooping<br />
Hardly moving their wings<br />
It's more than flying<br />
A bit like a dance<br />
But more than that too<br />
Swimming through the air<br />
Six together<br />
Sometimes more<br />
Synchronised<br />
Working together<br />
To live <br />
Survive and thrive<br />
I see them often<br />
Daily even<br />
They always <br />
catch my eye<br />
And make me think<br />
How lucky I am<br />
To live here<br />
And see such sights<br />
Graceful elegance<br />
From an<br />
Uncontrollable, wild<br />
Animal<div class="blogger-post-footer">All content copyright Emma Crees, 2006 - 2012 unless otherwise stated
http://writerinawheelchair.blogspot.com</div>Emmahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08965647190492385781noreply@blogger.com0