Absofuckinglutely

Analyse this.

Some more advice for the boys...

After Lulu's post Guide for Guys, I have also decided to add some advice for guys I came across:

R18 Things She Hates

You think you have the moves? Well, hotshot, we'll bet at least half the things you're doing in the bedroom really do drive her crazy-and not in a good way. We sent the MF Sex Squad to the streets of New York to poll 1,000 women. Their mission: to find out the ladies' biggest pet peeves under the sheets. Here are the top 10 responses.

1 You only perform fast, jackhammer-type sex. Why: "It feels more like you are trying to puncture a lung than give me an orgasm," says Liz, 21. "That just makes me numb-varying your rhythm keeps it interesting."

2 You stick your tongue inside her ear. Why: "It's like getting hit on the side of the head with a big wave," says Ashley, 19. "Or a large, wet jellyfish."

3 You think just inserting your fingers into her vagina is enough to get her off. Why: Penetration alone won't do. "You can't just go in and feel your way around," says Jen, 27. "You've got to have a plan of action."

4 You vigorously tweak her nipples. Why: Pinching with varying degrees of pressure depending on her cues? Good. Sadistic, 180-degree turns? Not so much. "You think it feels good?" challenges Deanna, 29. "Let me do it to you and see how you feel about it."

5 You lick her belly button. Why: "It stays wet in there a long time and ends up feeling sticky," says Julie, 23. You want to use your tongue? Head south.

6 You talk dirty to her-in a derogatory way. Why: Some girls get off on it-but not all. "Being called a dirty whore doesn't turn me on," says Katie, 32. "It just pisses me off."

7 You hit any part of her body with your erect penis. Why: "It just makes me want to slap it back," says Trina, 20.

8 You switch it up too much during oral sex. Why: "Variety is good," says Eva, 30. "But once you've hit the spot and I'm enjoying myself, stay with it. I don't want you to move on to something new."

9 You excitedly suggest she try something you've seen in a porn film-because, after all, the girl was having so much fun. Why: "She gets paid to do that," says April, 24. "We don't."

10 You put your hand on the back of her head when she's giving you oral sex. Why: "That is way too controlling," says Karen, 26. "And it makes it seem like we're only there to please you and do your bidding."

I do not necessarily agree with these, but they are on the whole not too bad in advice for you gentlemen out there.

Best rule of thumb is, ask her what she likes and get her to show you, generally girls like this. As much as we love our guy to take control in the bedroom, we like being able to get it how we like it and even tease you a bit

ANZAC Day

I did not manage to make any ANZAC service today, but I did watch some of the history coverage and then the National Wreath Laying ceremony on TVOne.

As a history student to see all the different footage was neat, and I also think it is fantastic that ANZAC is still held in such high regard by New Zealanders. I think it is important to honour veterans for what they did, but also the effects war has had on their families, the country and the world.

The Governor General gave a good speech, and I particularly liked his "hello's" where not only did he uses all language associated to NZ ie Niuean, Cook Island Maori but he also used NZ Sign Language.

The Australian representative laid their wreath with Trevor Mallard, as he was representing the Government, followed by John Key, then Kerry Prendergast(ly).

The absence of Helen was noted, and I have had people ring and text me asking what she was doing today and how come she did not attend the National Ceremony, especially as Mr Key did.

So as I now continue to write my essay on Aboriginal Genocide, I will be remebering those who served in the Wars and truly hope that we will never see such World War again, and no doubt we will all be thinking of the war that is currently existing in our world and of our troops who are in such countries.

Stirling in Red?

Yes? no? joining the labour party ... what are your thoughts? could the party do with genetic royalty?

-stirling

As requested by Pamziewamzie

TEN FIRSTS
First Best Friend: Lottie, next door neighbour
First Screen Name: Molly may
First Pet: Scooby a Australian white haired terrier.
First Piercing: Ears.
First Crush: Paul Year 2
First CD Bought: never bought a cd
First Car: a beetle
First True Love: meh i guess Steve
First Stuffed Animal: Nell stuffed tutle
First Words: No probably'
First Game System: Sonic

NINE LASTS
Last Alcoholic: Merlot, Beer and Barcadie.
Last Movie Seen: Magadalene Sisters
Last CD Played: Goldfrapp
Last Bubble Bath: cant remember
Last Time You Cried: a month ago bc i was stressed
Last Time You Laughed: yesterday,
Last Time You Fell: sometime earlier this year...drunken moment
Last Meal: Vegaterian curry
Last Party: last wknd, in welly

EIGHT HAVE YOU EVERS
Have You Ever Dated One Of Your Best Friends: No but ppl ive dated have become some of my bestest and closest friends
Have You Ever Been Arrested: not saying anything on this one
Have You Ever Been Skinny Dipping: yep
Have You Ever Been On TV: yep...
Have You Ever Regretted A Kiss: no
Have You Ever Been Drunk: Yes
Have You Ever Slept For 24 Hours Straight: oh god no
Have You Ever Worn the Same Pants for 3 Weeks Straight: hell no

SEVEN THINGS YOU'RE WEARING
1. shoes
2. jeans
3. Black t shirt
4. Grey Singlet
5. Sunnies
6. Underwear of course
7. earrings

SIX THINGS YOU DID TODAY
1. got woken up by my boy
2. ate toast.
3. went back to sleep when i got home.
4. dropped by a hotel for a job
5. ate choccie.
6. watched will and grace.

FIVE FAVOURITE THINGS
1. Friends
2. Laugther
3. sex
4. Travelling
5. Dancing...

FOUR PEOPLE YOU CAN TELL ALMOST ANYTHING TO
1. Kate
2. James
3. Becks
4.Alex...

THREE CHOICES
1. Radio or CD:Ipod!
2. German chocolate cheese cake or Vanilla bean cheese cake: Vanilla
3. Black or White: Black

TWO THINGS YOU WANT TO DO BEFORE YOU DIE
1. Travel
2. Live life?

ONE THING YOU REGRET
1. i dont even think of things that i may regret...whats the point?

Young Labour Conference

I have had a number of requests from people to post my take on the Young Labour Conference and what has resulted from it. This is my nice version of events.

I think it was great to see such a large number of people turn up for the event and that this year there were strong contingents from Christchurch and Dunedin as well as the usual Aucklanders and Wellingtonians. A great amount of discussion went on and generally people all seemed to have fairly similar ideas about where they want YL to be heading.

There were some contested positions (not often common at YL conference), including President, which resulted in a particularly nasty campaign by some of Megs supporters. Suprisingly the ones who got particularly nasty against Anna were people from her own branch, including a particular person pulling people individually aside and telling them she was a nasty person with a drinking problem. As far as I am concerned political attacks are fine but personal is unnecessary, especially when untrue.

On the Saturday night we went to dinner, however some people were kicked out as they had not RSVP'd, this I found interesting because if everyone had RSVP'd there would have been enough seating, yet after this contingent were kicked out (basically anyone who was close to Alex) there was still a significant shortage of seating - obviously a great start to the inclusiveness that Young Labour want to promote.

Despite it being a productive weekend and I think good on the whole for Young Labour, I will not be involved in Young Labour any longer as I personally feel that there is a certain clique who will not let go of their power and everyone else is just their puppets, I refuse to be a puppet and a hypocrite. It is also for these reasons I am currently trying to remain unactive within the party whilst I consider if the Labour Party is where I want to belong.

Welly Girl's facts

As requested by the beautiful pamziewamzie here is my list of information about me, and I thank her for helping me procrastinate even more.

TEN FIRSTS
First Best Friend: PJ, my next door neighbour
First Screen Name: windycitygirl (shared with my friend before I became my own person as welly_girl)
First Pet: A blue heeler named Charlotte
First Piercing: Ears. They are my only piercing
First Crush: A guy named Matthew
First CD Bought: Peter Andre
First Car: Yellow Toyota Starlet, called Spongebob
First True Love: Carl
First Stuffed Animal: Pink Ted, I still have him with me today
First Words: Dada, I was a Daddy's girl
First Game System: Ladybird

NINE LASTS
Last Alcoholic: Riesling
Last Movie Seen: The Klumps
Last CD Played: Lipgloss, Queens of 80s Pop
Last Bubble Bath: Whenever I was last in Hawkes Bay :(
Last Time You Cried: Flying back to Welly on Wednesday
Last Time You Laughed: A few minutes ago?
Last Time You Fell: At work on Friday, i tripped ok
Last Meal: Cheese and Ham Toastie at Mr Bun on Cuba Street
Last Party: Last Saturday, I wanted to "boing" peoples' hair.

EIGHT HAVE YOU EVERS
Have You Ever Dated One Of Your Best Friends: He was my best friend once we started going out so I am going with no
Have You Ever Been Arrested: Yes, but not charged
Have You Ever Been Skinny Dipping: Hmmm....
Have You Ever Been On TV: A couple of times, once as a giant pea and also protesting a few times
Have You Ever Regretted A Kiss: Yes
Have You Ever Been Drunk: Yes
Have You Ever Slept For 24 Hours Straight: Yes, but being in ICU does that to people
Have You Ever Worn the Same Pants for 3 Weeks Straight: No, that is just gross

SEVEN THINGS YOU'RE WEARING
1. Elmo Slippers
2. My limited edition Telecom T-Shirt
3. Black 3/4 Pants
4. Necklace Alex gave me
5. My Dad's Wedding Ring
6. Headband
7. Underwear, obviously

SIX THINGS YOU DID TODAY
1. Woke up, thinking it was a hell of a lot earlier than 9:30
2. Had peanut butter on toast
3. Watched Desting Church TV - yes I listened to Brian Tamaki
4. Went out to lunch with my friend
5. Visited my flatmate at work
6. Did some essay (which I should still be doing now)

FIVE FAVOURITE THINGS
1. Laughing
2. Hanging out with friends
3. The Establishment (the bar in Wellington)
4. My cat
5. Step Class

FOUR PEOPLE YOU CAN TELL ALMOST ANYTHING TO
1. Geoff
2. My Cat
3. Loren
4. The Priest in the confessional box

THREE CHOICES
1. Radio or CD: Radio
2. German chocolate cheese cake or Vanilla bean cheese cake: Vanilla
3. Black or White: White

TWO THINGS YOU WANT TO DO BEFORE YOU DIE
1. Finish university!
2. Get married and have babies

NB This is not all I want to do, but they were first ones that come to mind.

ONE THING YOU REGRET
1. I don't really regret anything, any mistakes or hiccups along the way have taught me things. Whats the point in regretting something which has already happened. As Bishop Tamaki said your future is now, no point depending on the past.

I hope that gives you some more insight into me. Any other questions please post and I will answer if appropriate ;)

Limbo

Limbo. Yes limbo, I'm sure you all know what I'm talking about... 'Just friends' oh yes people we've heard it possibly even said it a common term we use to run from inevitable commitment. I have to say being in limbo for me isn't all that bad consider this... you still see each other nearly everyday still talk, laugh even play together, but you just aren't together. Your hearing me aren't you, but this concept can wear very thin you see as you're constantly battling with yourself over whether he/she is really that into you I mean come on, they look at you the same, find ways to touch you and please, do not get me started on the "play fight" that will always I repeat always end in a kiss.

This awkward place we find me and you is definately a maschicistic outcome we've thrown ourselves into, you remember the break up - your strong self wanted to ring the neck of the 'breaker' and proclaim never wanting to see them again!!! Yet for some reason you withold this fleeting thought to believe that one day they will realise what fools they've been..... THEY WILL NOT no matter how true it is. Do you really want to be with someone that's half into you ? Please be answering no to this question albeit rhetorical. Now this is where it gets juicy you see there really is a valid reason for Limbo among the stronger of us, Limbo means you still get to see them (which you don't really care about because your sooooo over it) potentially even bed them, now you understand the scenario, the power is in your hands! Of course this isn't for everyone and forced Limbo should definately come after the initially destroying break up settles.

Do not fall back in love/lust keep your distance, no double txts, and always remind yourself just enough so that the wound stings that they broke it off with you.

xx- Stirling

A selfish post to attract sympathy

I have the flu. Hence the reason why I'm stuck at home on a Saturday night, contemplating going to a party. Though I'm not sure I'm up to getting behind the wheel; I could barely rouse up the energy to get out of bed today. So if I did go to this party I would probably sit, bleary eyed in a corner while my friends screamed and danced and were their usual hypo selves. And I would just look like an antisocial drug addict. Which I'm not, by the way. Saturday nights at home are still depressing in comparison however.

My sickness makes me think - who looks after the lonely ill? I don't know what I would do if flatmates (ones I'm very fond of) friends, boyfriends or family weren't around. Some people don't have them. You see, I'm very lazy when I'm sick, and need round the clock service. If I had no friends my health would be in jeopardy.

I'm also thinking about how fun it's going to be with all these new co bloggers... Mwah haha. Can't wait.

Anyway, just thought you should know how sick I am. Think of me when you sip your chardonnay tonight.

xx L

So how about it the first male to join Red Confectionery! .... I have to say i am feeling very privileged to join such a beautifully blunt and enlightening blog, i hope to set alight and dowse many an urban legend.

-Stirling

Because im worth it...

Today i was thinking what guy would be a great spokesperson for all those Loreal Ads and who else is better than Ryan Smith . Great Hair and he plays for the Edmonton Oiler....blimin fantastic!!

The US Elections - Go Hillary Go!

I am currently in my fresher class at School and one of my courses in Politics.

My Teacher thinks that Rudi Guiliani is going to win next year but of course I know it is going to be Hillary. I would like Obama to be her running mate and then he can take over as President in 2016.

What does everyone else think?

Go Hillary, Go!

I'm in, and I am in to win - Hillary Clinton 2007

Hillary's Love Child joins Red Confectionery

Hey y'all,

Thanks for letting me join Red Confectionery. I am from Rock Springs, Wyoming and met Pamziewamzie at the International Young Left conference in Spain a few months back and we have kept in touch ever since.

I am going to blog on the US elections and world issues and we are all campaigning here for Hillary. It is time we had a Woman President.

More Later

Vote for Hillary in 2008.

Key to The Rescue

Last night I attended the unveiling of Key's puppet at The Backbencher Pub. It is interesting that this photo omits the other National Party member who gets portrayed as the joker - Brash of course.

The bright colours used for this recent puppet display is possibly a sign that the Backbencher think that National are the leading light but thats probably thinking too far into it. But the colour certainly does distinguish this recent addition from the others.

Of question by many was the positioning of English's (or should I say Robin's) hand over his crotch.

I met some Nats and even Mr Key himself(lovely man), of course Mr Farrar and Mr National Bank were the best people to be able to talk to at an event where I was probably the only person who voted Labour in 2005. But who knows it may be a blue tick from me in '08.

hello there molly may is here!!

thanks to pamziewamzie and welly girl, i have been given the privilege to blog with them...... today i found this article rather amusing....which im sure some of you will understand...(alex an academic??..hah ha(..... until next time. Ciao

Molly May

Pamziewamzie and Welly_Girl's delightful friend has also entered the blogging world.
Check her out at molly may

YL Conference was an interesting experience, more to follow at a later date

ciao

Some more on Section 59

Linley Boniface wrote a good column on Section 59 in the DomPost yesterday.

She presents a good perspective on it AND from a parents stance.

Guide for Guys

I have been meaning to give guys some hints for achieving success in the area of lurve for some time now. I have a lot of female friends that come from a wide cross section of society, so you can expect this to be "well researched."

On first meetings:

1. Compliment, compliment, compliment. Girls are unbridled narcissists. We love it when you notice our new haircut or pretty dress. There are of course, some things you shouldn't compliment. Eg. "Nice cleavage" - unless she is a dirty sleaze just like you, and enjoys that kind of thing. Another no no is "Nice foundation." Because what straight guy would be able to notice things like that?

2. Be interested. The more interested you are, the more interesting you will seem. Listen and try not to talk about yourself too much. Smile, nod and say things like, "Wow, that sounds really cool."

3. If appropriate, open doors and offer seats. I know, it's traditional as fuck, but we love a gentleman.

4. Watch how you smell. Be very careful. Some of the nicest guys will have no success with girls if the first thing she notices about you is a whiff of B.O. Hint: Smelling nice has the opposite effect, so load up on the expensive cologne. (notice how I do not mention Lynx) Nice colognes include John Paul Gaultier, Armani, and Calvin Klein 'One.' Smelling like soap is also manly, but for guys that usually only lasts an hour before they get smelly again. I CANNOT STRESS THE IMPORTANCE OF THIS POINT.

5. If you want to see a girl again, casually invite her out for a drink/party/hangout time during lunchbreak, with other people. This will make her feel more comfortable around you, giving you both time to decide if you want to progress to a one on one date.

On First Dates:

1. When you ask a girl out, BE A FUCKING MAN. Come on, you've done it for centuries, why stop now? Don't say, "Will you go out with me?" Turn it into a command and say "Come out with me to the movies this weekend." I mean, what have you got to lose? If she says no, then at least you'll know for sure - that it wasn't your hot friend she was really trying to get under.

2. When trying to decide on something to do for your first date, don't leave it all up to her. For one, you will probably end up seeing some lame chic flick that you'd rather buy for your mum. Take the lead; you were the one that asked her out. Dinner and drinks is ideal, if not a little serious. Ice cream on the beach is also nice. Things like absailing, adventure sports and getting pedicures together are not on. Originality is not a plus at this stage in a relationship; it will just freak her out.

3. Offer to pay for things. If she really likes you, she will split the bill anyway. I think this is justified, as guys usually earn more than us...

4. Don't try to sleep with her on the first date. You will have plenty of time to try this on later, and it can be awkward waking up with someone you don't know that well. Generally a relationship will fizz out if it climaxes too early. Unless of course, she comes on to you first and is OK with some early sexytime.

5. Text her the next day and say, "Hey I had a great time with you last night. Let's do it again sometime."

The Relationship

1. A girl's friends are important. It is vital that you get their approval, because if they don't like you, she will go off you too. Try to treat them like your own friends. When they're really drunk and need to spew, escort them to the boys toilets when the ladies has a huge line and wait outside their door. Offer to buy them drinks. Invite them to your (single) friend's parties. - This could benefit you, too.

But whatever you do, DON'T flirt with your girlfriend's mates. It will seriously fuck them off and believe me, she will find out. And as a general hint on human decency, don't date her friends when the relationship ends.

2. Don't cling. You don't have to spend every waking moment together. Make time to hang out with your own mates, or go away for that rugby (hint, rugby players are HOT) tournament every now and again. Girls are just like guys in a way. They like a challenge and if they know they have a guy wrapped around their little finger, their eyes will start to wander.

3. Take her out on the town with you. Don't become one of those couples that can't party. This will make you a seriously cool boyfriend.

4. Once again, listen to your girlfriend. Like you, she needs someone to vent to occassionally.

5. Be friends. That magic spark will usually fade (hopefully later rather than sooner) but friendship will give you long term success.

And finally, Bedroom Antics (with restrained use of graphics)

1. Missionary is underrated. Cunninglingus is overrated. Not all girls like it. In fact, some pass the time by staring at the wall and thinking about the washing. Some of us are even smart enough to know that the only reason you do it is for a little Indiana Jones exploring - you don't have one of your own so try to pass this "exploring" for an altruistic act. Make sure your partner is a cunninglingus fan before you venture below every night. (Hint: use your fingers if she isn't)

2. Again, listen to your girlfriend. Listen for noises of pleasure. (eg. Yes, Ooh, Aah) If she is brave enough to tell you what she wants in bed, don't EVER disobey her, because she will only ask you once, being the modest lady that she is. If you do ignore her requests, she will probably dump your ass.

3. Be the alpha male and dominate the bedroom scene. Sometimes, you just need to pin her down and do her. (I think I just spotted my feminist values flying out the window) We like a bit of manliness, it makes us feel protected and safe. Confidence is the biggest turn on.

4. Ask her to be honest with you when it comes to the Big O. Good things take time. For your own welfare, you need to be able to tell the difference between a bona fide and a fake if you are to have any future success with the ladies.

5. This is the most important thing guys need to get in their heads. It has the possibility to save marriages. It will make you an urban legend in girly circles. Find out where the G spot is. Most women have two. Each woman needs it stimulated in a slightly different way. Christ, download an anatomy picture off the net and study, study, study. Some guys have the view that stimulation of that whole 'area' guarantees satisfaction. It does not. You can't just land your plane anywhere.

It's not that bloody difficult.

Good luck.

Go Me

I have complete right tp brag this week:

In Virtual Super 14 I got 48/48.

This is my best score EVER

Section 59 Media Coverage

My goodness Tv 1 and Tv 3 included pro-repeal protestors as well as anti-repeal, I do not understandy why people are so suprised.

There was also coverage in the Herald, The Dom Post, Hawkes Bay Today, Otago Daily Times and The Press. (no doubt others as well)

I think it is great to see the media showing that people on both sides are vocal, and I think that it is great to see young people who are future parents in this country standing up for children's rights.

Section 59 Protest - "I'm Not Violent"

I was at the Section 59 Protest, and made National Headline News, check out the video. My heart had a bit of flutter when I got to talk Duncan

Here are some photos I took mainly before the bulk of protestors arrived.

I enjoyed myself immensely and as the video from one news, I don't know about three, I was also incredibly vocal. I love that in NZ when you feel strongly about something we are allowed to protest and actually have democracy being practiced here.

My appeal to Repeal

This was my letter which I sent to politians asking them to Repeal Section 59:

Dear...

Please support the Crimes Amendment Bill.

Our children deserve better than the status quo with section 59.

Positive parenting has been found to be much more effective in teaching children to behave well. Hitting them doesn't teach children anything. It just perpetuates cycles of violence.

As a Christian, my support for this Bill is consistent with and mandated by my faith. Christian teaching is based on the message of love and treating others with dignity and respect.

Regards,

If you want to do your bit you can send an email from the website www.repealsection59.org.nz that will go to which ever MPs you want it to urging them to vote for the Repeal of Section 59.

I wrote to many MPs (no labour ones) about a year ago asking for their stance on Section 59, Peter Dunne and Winston Peters were the only people I ever heard back from, although they did represent the views of all their caucus stating it would be conscience votes. Act and the Nats never got back to me. This does not discourage me, at least they have heard a voice from the public, so PLEASE get emailing. A large number of singular voices has a lot of power.

Student Debt

Student Debt has passed the $9 billion mark. This is terrible and something needs to be done.

Tomorrow is "National Action Day" and student associations around the country and planning different activities to make students and the public aware of the situation. Salient has an article about what is happening in Wellington and has some opinions about student debt from VUWSA President Geoff Hayward and NZUSA co-president Josh Clark.

The Government has lowered interest rates on student debt from 6.9% - 6.8%, which almost seems pointless. And even though students loans are now interest free so long as you remain in NZ, the fact is students are having to borrow to live and therefore their debt is rising, even without interest.

I know that as students, getting interest free student loans was a HUGE step, and one that we will be forever thankful for, but Universal Student Allowances NEED to be implemented, its not fair or reasonable that students have to borrow to survive.

Garners impresses President

TV 3' Political Editor and my favourite, Duncan Garner, has had his suit complimented by President Bush. While trying to get Bush to answer a question, Bush deflected this by commenting on Garner's snappy dress sense.

It appears that Garner's suit was so memorable to the President that he instructed the American Press to take a page out of Garner's book and start to dress sensibly... maybe something the President himself could do - seriously those boots with his suit did not go.

For those interested Duncan Garner's Suit was purchased from FARRYS on Lambton Quay, the suit is made by Cambridge (an Akl company), with the fabric imported from Italy and the wool is either NZ or Australian.

A bit of a giggle

Walking past the reading room of the Parliamentary Library last night I had a bit of giggle at the fact that one of the books on a stand that the librarian's put out was entitled "Why Honesty Pays"

The debates hitting everyone...

Pardon the pun in the title, but it appears that the "anti-smacking" bill is really fast becoming the most talked about thing in NZ since TomCat's wedding.

This week's Woman's Day has an article on it with views from both sides, Simon Barnett from shows such as Face the Music, is against the bill with families also being used on both the for and against benches.

The newly launched Cleo website www.cleo.co.nz also has a forum running on it, which shows just how much this bill is in the minds of young people as well as parents and law makers in NZ. Some of the comments on this forum are quite interesting.

I must say that I was please to see in the DomPost the other day some opinions from children's points of view, and also that Cindy Kiro is making sure that it is their best interests we are looking out for.

I am for the repeal of Section 59, something which is of no suprise to anyone as I have stated my stance on this bill many times. The next few weeks and months will be filled with intense debate and hopefully no more ridiculous filabuster attacks will launched.

The end of the man drought for Lulu

For those of you who didn't know, I have recently been on a voluntary "man drought." I would recommend this to any girl, just to see what it's like. It's also a good excuse for being single.

However, the drought has ended; I have acquired myself a very good looking Englishman. Get this: He fixed my broken hair straightener for me. How cool is that?

xx L

United We Stand, Divided We Fall

And if we are three policemen who all keep out story the same, and tell our wives to go along with it then away from prison we remain. (Unless you stuffed up in a different case and ended up there anyway)

Last night in Wellington and Auckland were the protests about the not guilty verdicts handed down in the recent case against Schollum, Shipton and Rickards. I had hoped to attend but due to one being busy and having other events I could not. However I was driving past the Police Station/Civic Square about half six, where I saw a police front of females outside the front door to the cop shop, and as we were waiting at the lights, a male officer came out and obviously told them that the protesters would be no trouble now as they all went inside.

When I originally heard the news I was furious, I was shaking with anger and also felt so upset for that poor woman who had had to relive that moment over and over again for years, and then in court, to have her rapists aquitted. The fact that two were jail already does not serve justice, as they are not in jail for their rape on her.

Rickards should be in jail in my (and many others) opinion, I know that he has been declared an innocent man through the justice system, but I do not believe that he his, nor do I have to. He can not go back to being district commander, assistant commissioner and he can kiss away his chances of being Police Commissioner, as we can not have a Police officer in such positions when such a large number of the public despise, detest and distrust him.

We certainly need to be careful about how treat the Police currently, not all of them are rapists. Not all of them man handle and abuse people. Not all of them are on power trips. However there are some who are and they should not be in the Police Force and without a true Police watchdog in NZ it is our job to ensure that any cases get reported.

O-Week in Wellington

Man what a week last week was - definitely my best O-week ever!!!

I was so tired this weekend as I had spent most of the week partying O-week style, particularly from Wednesday onwards.

Wednesday arvo started at wank (Mount St Bar) where a quiz was to take place but as there were only a small number of people there it was postponed until Thursday, so we wandered down to Dusty's played some cricket (well kind of cricket) and then I watched poker while others played, before heading to Syn for some Hell's Pizza and then heading home.

Thursday rocked!!! Thursday afternoon I was back at Wank to partake in the Quiz, although my team did not get placed I won a Mill voucher for $50 (which of course has already been spent) I got terribly drunk on a combination of beers and was fairly trolleyed by 7pm. I was supposed to attend the Great Debate, instead i slept on the VUWSA presidents couch.

After a quick recovery I wandered up to the Comedy Night it was SO funny, and I proceeded to get even drunker as I was being supplied with free Black Smirnoffs and was sitting backstage for most of the event, so also got to meet the comedians. It was an awesome event.

Afterwards I have some memory of being at Dusty's again and then sitting on the side of the road waiting for my mate to come down so we could go to town, its a bit fuzzy.

Friday night I was SO tired, as on top of my late nights on Wednesday and Friday I had been spreading the Labour word at both the Kelburn and Piptea Clubs Days. I also was not feeling the best so opted for an early night. I only know about the incident at the NOFX concert via word of mouth and from witnesses and do not want to speculate, except that it does it appear it has been blown out of proportion.

Yesterday was the bowls competition at Island Bay, games were funny, costumes even funnier and the constant supply of Speights was even better, before heading to the Cambridge where the love of my life, Mr Conrad Smith, also was (I did not know this before hand) so as I have got a new phone since my last phone picture with him, I got another!!! He is SO hot.

This week I am partaking in the Suburban Speights Safari ie pub crawl on Wednesday night and hopefully Juliette and the Licks of Friday night, I will attempt to get some photos and post these for all to enjoy.

Huge Congrats to VUWSA and everyone who has helped run an awesome Orientation, keep up the good work.

Compliment

I have just been informed by a reputable NZ celebrity(as reputable as any of them can be) that today is Compliment Day.

So go forth and compliment your family and friends, or even the random you see on the street or sit next to on the bus.

To my fellow bloggers on Red Confectionery you girls rock!!!

To people who challenge my thoughts you do a great job (even if I do not like your opinions)

And to the Hurricanes - you guys are the best.

I am FURIOUS

Over on DPF's blog under the post about how close the anti-child abuse law reform bill is going to be(or as the right phrase it "anti-smacking") one commenter has the ignorance to comapre abortion to child abuse. I am furious.

I am sitting at work seething over these comments and should Whale Oil's blogger bash take place, I want to fight these SOBs and take them down. It is people like this that make me sick, how dare they accuse a woman of being a child abuser when she has a termination. If anything by terminating an unwanted pregnancy, this baby is not going to be neglected because it is not wanted, or she may be going through this because she can not provide adequate care for herself during pregnancy and when a baby is born. If anything terminations help prevent child abuse to an extent.

I am arguing with them under the comments but I can not believe that people still are SO opposed to terminations. I certainly do not advocate women to be careless in sex because termination is an option, but I certnaily do believe that it is a woman's right to choose whether she keeps her baby and I do not think that anyone else has ANY right to judge her for her decision - she needs support, as it would be one the biggest decisions she would ever have had to face.

And as for men commenting on it, I know you are entitled to your opinions but as the sex that will never be in that position I do not think that you can possibly identify or feel compassion towards women who find themselves in such a terrifying situation and therefore do not bring the emotional as well as medical and physical complexities to the situation.

BZP

Despite always getting sick when I have even one of these evil pills, I still think we should be allowed to take them.

Sign MikeE's petition...

xx L

My Head Hurts

Last night I was priviledged enough to get an "invite" to the Team Vic launch at the Establishment, and not only that but I also got to sit with all the important people ie Geoff as well as Conrad Smith (Yes, the All Black)

He was a really really nice guy, and we all had some good conversations with him, however he did steal my dessert!!! ( He could be a potential patron God - fits all below criteria)

Was out until 3am-ish after hitting the Establishment at 6pm, thought I had set my alarm for 9am as the joy of my job means I can start and finish whenever I want if I don't have any meetings, however somehow I was AT work at 9am, so must have set alarm wrong in my drunken stupor, now my head hurts, I feel sick when I stand up, want a pie knowing it will make me feel better, but also means I will HAVE to go to gym this arvo, when I really just wanna head home and go to bed.

I don't think I have been so drunk on a Tuesday night since my first year shenanigans in Weir House.

Sunday mornings

In a momentary lapse of sense I offered to work this morning. Now I'm sitting at a desk, bleary eyed, my body trying to get over the shock of being up early on a Sunday. (I got up ages ago, but yes, noon is still very early!!)

However, I'm working early so I can go out for dinner tonight - excitement - love going out for dinner!

Anyway, I thought it was time our Patron God was changed. (again) Especially considering that the current one is of questionable sexuality - not that it matters, because we are on a voluntary "man drought" at Red Confectionery - but it is time someone else was given the extraordinary honour of being adored by us.

There are a few nice politicians in New Zealand (Darren Hughes and "Hot Nat" Matt Patterson spring to mind) but unfortunately, the world of politics is a very small sphere and any public expression of affection is likely to be met with a bumping into each other along Lambton Quay. Awkward silences follow... (Oh my God, you're that freak from the internet?!) Plenty more yummy guys to be distracted with at work though.

First of all, I am introducing a thing I like to call, "Standards." These are the criteria that any Patron God of ours must meet:

• He must be a New Zealander. We're not being racist; instead we're applying affirmative action - Kiwi men need recognition for their talents.
• He must be capable of conversation and not be socially inept. "So, do you like stuff?" is not an adequate conversation starter.
• Hotness is a bonus, but not a requirement. Since we're PC we'll just pretend to believe this but know that deep down our loins will never crave, say Miles from The Holiday.
• This is not a must but I find it really attractive when a guy has this look of quiet amusement in his eyes all the time, like he finds everything really funny or something. This usually corresponds with a sense of humour, which is a requirement for Godliness.

At the moment, Jeremy Wells fits these requirements perfectly. He's beautiful, absolutely beautiful. And possibly one of the most hilarious people in television. I also suspect he is a leftie. Oh, to have him as my very own newsboy...

I used to stay up late just for Eating Media Lunch - not only to perve but for the clever insights it had into NZ politics etc. OK, enough drooling.

Enjoy the eye candy, girls...

WITCH!

(Happens to be a good bar on Ponsy Rd by the way)

Oh dear. It seems we are regressing. This shit makes me so angry. When a problem arises in the community, blame the women...

Did Anyone Else Know?

I just received an email at work saying that Anna Nicole Smith is dead.

She died after collapsing in a hotel. It has been a tough past year for poor ol' Anna, with her son, who was also a very close friend to her dying, and then men arguing over who was the father of her recent baby.

Anna Nicole has been surrounded by controversy, especially when she married 89-year-old J. Howard Marshall II who had a multi-million dollar family fortune, so on his death their has been an ongoing battle between Anna Nicole and Marshall's son over who is entitled to the money.

Anna Nicole's claim to fame was her appearance in Playboy Magazine and more recently her significant weight loss, which was thanks to help of diet pills.

I have been told that this IS true, but should anyone know otherwise, I would love to know.

Mexican Wave

As many people know the Mexican wave has been banned at sporting venues in Australia, I am outraged at this. I understand that it because of the things that get thrown but NEWSFLASH you don't have to be doing a Mexican wave to throw things - the human is able to throw things without having the rest of the crowd do it also.

Therefore, at the cake tin on Friday 16 Feb, where the Aussies will play the Blackcaps, I propose that anyone there attempts to start a full circle Mexican wave within the stadium. This will signal that:
1) Mexican Waves ARE fun and NOT dangerous
2) In protest at what the Australians have done in Australia (because it means Kiwi supporters can't do them either)
3) That NZers will not be stopped from being allowed to mexican wave, at least not in NZ

Which ultimately leaves the Kiwis with one up on the Aussies

Happy Waitangi Day

So it's Waitangi Day again and I certainly am not out celebrating, unlike on Australia Day.

It would be great if Waitangi Day got turned into the same celebration as our counterparts across the ditch.

What have I done to mark today? Well as many know I am a hopeless romantic and yet have never seen 'Dirty Dancing', so I have just finished watching it and now understand why everyone raves about it, it is truly a fanatstic romance movie and makes one *sigh* and only hope one day that same form of love will happen to me.

Dirty Dancing is definitely up there now as one of my favourites.

Blonde Moment #1

Seriously. The shit girls go through to be hairless.

I was getting ready to go out last night, and thought I would give myself a quick wax. I have this great stuff: Naughty Nads. Actually, all-hair-wax-is-evil-and-only-reinforces-servitude-to-the-sexual-gratification-of-men. And it is so painful use. But, unfortunately, the best way to get rid of hair.

I placed the jar in the microwave to turn the wax into a substance suitable for ripping hairs off. I took it out after a minute and it was still solid. I put it on for another minute and got distracted trying to find a dress to wear.

I live in an apartment and the microwave is on top of the fridge. When I took the jar out of the microwave it was so hot that it practically resembled hot oil... but I was unaware of this until a little bit spilt on my hand, and then I had no choice - human pain reflexes - I dropped the jar. Most of the wax landed on my healthy, innocent unsuspecting leg. (which is kind of good as I don't know how the hell I'm going to get the rest of the stuff off the kitchen floor...)

Anyway, unfortunately the wax also wouldn't come off my leg, which was still burning. I tried to rip a bit off, as I usually would while waxing, but it took a piece of my skin with it. Ew ew ew ew. Apparently hot water also takes it off, but hot water is not very accomodating to burns. THERE WAS NOTHING IN THE INSTRUCTIONS TO TELL ME WHAT TO DO WITH WAX BURNS. I felt shocked and angry. I would've gone to A & E but they are way too slow for my liking. I also had to be somewhere and would have received a grilling if I did not show up, burnt or not.

The wax ended up coming off with the little towelettes that came with the wax, but it was a very painful few 15 minutes. I now have a long stretch of blisters up my leg big enough to impede my walking. Not very nice. Not nice at all. And my skirt is covered with popped blister juice. (God I can be graphic sometimes)

I guess this is one of those cases like the novelty contact lenses, but I do think products should cater for accidents with advice in the packaging. Even a small word of comfort for whoever happens to be a victim of waxing. Just a little "The pain will go away soon and it will be worth it" would be great, thanks.

If you happen to be male, next time you hear that your girlfriend used hairwax - be grateful. Be very grateful. Shower her with affection and gifts. Emphasis on the gifts. Not only is waxing a bitch to do, it has a large degree of risk associated with it.

xx L

UPDATE: People at work told me to go to the doctor, went last night - had to go to a PRIVATE hospital!! - Doctor said they were 1st degree burns, bordering on 2nd. Doctor was really good looking, some kind of Heath Ledger look a like.

Doctor: "Sorry do you mind if I pull up your skirt a little to see it?"

Oh er, don't mind if I do, missus!!

Going back today to get dressing changed. Should be fun.

Kia Ora

To go with the re-branding and new image of the Air New Zealand services, they also wanted this blended into their on-flight magazine and as of today the former Air New Zealand Magazine is now called "Kia Ora".

The name change and redesign were the result of a combined effort by staff at Air New Zealand and ACP Magazines, who have custom-published the title for almost three years.

The magazine’s new look was designed to reflect a friendly, relaxed and more colloquial Kiwi flavour, with a fresh and contemporary feel.

“We liked ‘KiaOra’ as a title because of its warm, relaxed and welcoming meaning in Maori,” said Air New Zealand General Manager Marketing Steve Bayliss. “It recognises our country’s heritage and embraces Air New Zealand’s friendly and hospitable culture.”

Other changes to the magazine include bold section title pages, a fresh colour palette and new editorial features including interviews with prominent Kiwis about their travel secrets, and profiles of small New Zealand towns.

ACP Magazine’s editorial director in charge of custom publishing, Sally Duggan, said the ACP team was thrilled with the revamp, which delivers plenty of fresh new features for readers as well as better matching the airline’s brand image: “Custom-published magazines need to deliver on two fronts -- to reader, of course, but also to the client. KiaOra magazine does the job brilliantly.”

The magazine has prospered since it became part of the ACP Magazine stable, posting readership growth of more than 50 per cent over the period from April 2004 to mid 2006. Current readership is 279,000.* Every month 65,000 copies of the magazine are distributed on Air New Zealand flights. ACP Magazines also publishes Air New Zealand’s entertainment magazine, a monthly 24-page guide to the airlines inflight entertainment options.

Other ACP custom published magazines include the bimonthly parenting title, Little Treasures magazine and the New Zealand Rugby Football Union’s test match programmes.

Following the crowd...

And because everyone else has done it I too have taken the Australian Political Test.

Here are my results:
Greens: 53.5%
Australian Democrats: 66.4%
Labor Party: 73.9%
Family First: 66.2%
Liberal Party: 56.2%
National Party: 49%
One Nation Party: 75.2%

I am suprised by the ONP being my top scoring area, however the Australian Labor Party are are only a few percent behind.

It does appear that I am about as Centre as one could possibly get, althought my social and traditional views do spread to the left rather than the right.

So if one combines these results, with my 8 tribes results, I am kinda confused as to where exactly I stand in the political spectrum.

He's like the Energizer Bunny...

Graeme Burton does not seem to give up no matter what... last night whilst being transferred from hospital to prison he attacked a guard who was in the back with him, thus he was re-admitted into the Emeregency Department and had his wounds checked.

This prompted extreme security measures with a combination of armed offenders squad members, detectives and dog handlers surrounding all hospital entrances, with the fear being Burton may have someone on the outside trying to help him escape... AGAIN!!!

I am not a fan of the prison system, and am for prisoners being counselled and hopefully changing their ways... unfortunately I think Burton is a lost cause and his new sentence should be a life sentence with a long LONG time before he is allowed up for parole again... maybe it could be a new record. I would like it that he will either be an extremely old man or dead before he is eligible.

Just another silly titter

FUCK. Excuse the vulgar language, because I'm such a lay - dee...

But isn't it funny how anonymous comments pop up when the option is there? They're like gangrene... never go away until you cut your arm off.

The point of this post however is to express my joyous happiness to the world.






One of my friends is dating a guy that runs a talent agency. When he met me he said, "Hey, you're really pretty. Here's my card, you would be great for extras work." I'm sure they say that to everyone (and of course I don't want to do extra work), but it was nice.

Also found out that a long standing crush of mine said some *pleasing* words about me.

Well that will curb my bisexual tendencies, won't it??!!

Also decided that this ad is funny, so have included it here. But then this blog has lower standards than airports...

Blog Drinks in Wellington

Last night I headed along to the blog drinks at Hope Brothers in Wellington, it was a good night. Had some good conversations and met some good people, and as it turned out one guy and I have had very close encounters for many years and yet never met...

The drinks wrapped up at the end of the Cricket (haha BlackCaps you were beaten but that is no suprise really - althought yes it was close) and then I, Farrar, Chris B and Michael E went and had a chinese dinner. I certainly heard some good stories and for right wing guys they are pretty good, although I am a right leftie so I am more accommodating of right views.

Auckland sounded good from what I have read, Pam did you go?

My "scientific" tribe

Tony has a link on his blog relating to the 8 tribes as discussed in my last post.

So I took the test and it turns out that I am indeed North Shore and Remuera, with a low percentage of Raglan and Otara but no Grey Lynn, Papaptoetoe, Cuba Street or Balclutha, which I found suprising.

I wonder what this really means about me?

What tribe are you?

I really enjoyed reading in the weekend edition of the Dompost about "which tribe are you?"

Two PR experts have written a book re-classing stereotypes that exist in New Zealand, it is quite interesting reading. But I do not know how much better they are than typical stereotypes that already exist, one could argue all these PR people have done is rename them.

Interesting to see some well known New Zealanders classed under each catergory:
North Shore - John Key
Grey Lynn - Helen Clark
Raglan - Josh Kronfield
Remuera - Sir Douglas Arthur Montrose Graham
Balclutha - Winston Peters
Cuba Street - Flight of the Conchords
Otara - David Tua
Papatoetoe - Jerry Brownless (originally at least)

According to the article I would classically fit into the Remuera Tribe, being from Havelock North and attending a private school, however I do not come from money, let alone old money which may mean I do not get classified into this.

Should I wish to classify myself I would probably say I am of the North Shore Tribe as I am ambitious and hard working, like to keep up my appearances and ultimately would like to have a house in a desirable street in New Zealand with the car and job to suit, but do still contains elements of the Remurea Tribe ie that manners are important and I am a proud ex-private school girl and as my home town in listed as a Remuera Tribe area, as well as other suburbs and towns I would like to live in, I guess that is my stereotype foundation.

I guess my Labour loving ways definitely add a mix to my "tribe" though.

In a Boy's Shoes

I had an interesting experience over the weekend that I thought was worth writing about. Beware, I believe writing of this type has not been seen before on Red Confectionery...!

I was out with two guy friends of mine who happen to be gay. We had a few drinks at home and then proceeded to go to a local bar that is, shall we say, frequented by a more colourful crowd. Very fun, very loud and very interesting. Especially this night. I am not a Bisexual or a Lesbian, but then I don't go to bars to get laid either.




As it turned out, my two guy friends decided they quite liked the look of each other so I was left relatively alone. No worry, I had run into a few old friends anyway - always a surprise when you see people from high school in a gay bar - and decided to make friends with the people sitting next to us.

I saw this girl with a nice red top on, and complimented her on it.

Tip #1 in making friends with girls: Compliment on clothes and appearance, even if you don't want to shag them.

Actually, the top was OK but it's always a good conversation starter. Then I realised, Shit. I'm in a gay bar. You don't make friends here, you make 'friends.' And THEN I realised, Hey. This could go somewhere...

Girl in the red top happened to be very nice looking, and by chance we had a few things in common. Like me, she was a science student studying away from home. We chatted about this and that... I won't bore you with the details. But she did ask me - God bless homosexuals for being straight up - whether or not I was a Lesbian. I lied, and said I was Bi. I wanted to try this out.

I decided to be the man of the situation and bought her a drink. Midori and Lemonade, of course.

Tip #2 in making friends with girls: If they don't specify what drink to buy, get them something sweet and girly like a Midori and Lemonade, Mallibu and Pineapple or Vodka Lemon and Lime.

One drink led to another - my guy friends were delighted with this and encouraged my bi-curiousity by buying us more drinks. We ended up outside the ladies together. I didn't know whether or not to go in with her, which is what I usually do with my chic friends.

Tip #3 in making friends with girls: DON'T go to the bathroom together.

She looked up into my eyes - I was taller, definitely the alpha female - and kissed me.

Let me describe what it is like to kiss another female. They have a softer tongue, and are much more gentle in their approach to 'caressing' and making out. It lasted a while. I told her she was really pretty (which she was) and she said I was an amazing kisser. I even kissed her neck and shoulders, because chances are if she was anything like me she would like that. And boy, did she ever.

Tip #1 in making out with girls: Don't be a boring goldfish; use your mouth for other parts of the body. (Before you start grabbing them that is)

Needless to say, it was undoubtedly fun kissing another girl, but nowhere as fun as kissing a guy. In which case I would have gotten turned on. As you do when you kiss someone you fancy. In other words, I didn't 'feel' anything while it was happening.

Such a shame, being with girls would be so much easier...

During this makeout session one of my friends, Matt (or Karma, as he was in drag), not the most discreet person in the world, exclaimed: "LULU!! Since when did you become a rug muncher?!!" Oh dear. I told him, quite justifiably I thought, to shut up. He warned me not to mess with her, as she was a really nice person.

Geez. Now I know how guys feel when they hook up with girls.

At the end of the night there was the question of whether or not we would go home together. To be honest, the thought terrified me. But we exchanged numbers and said our goodbyes.

Now I am in a bit of a pickle. She is texting me, saying she had an amazing time with me that night. If I tell her the truth, she will be upset; if I don't do anything - a typical guy response - she will think I am not into her, and be upset. For now her texts remain unreplied to.

I could say that I don't think it should be taken any further as we both live in different cities. But seriously, I am not good at making up stories.

What on earth should I do??!!

P.S. I wouldn't write the experience off - every straight girl should try this. Without hurting the other girl's feelings, that is.

A New Year...

Am back posting and at work as of today, after having a nice relaxing holiday, bar the four days where my young cousins thought 5am was a reasonable hour to wake up and that therefore meant me as well.

I see that David Farrar also tagged me for the five things so here it goes:

1) If NZ is playing Australia I will wear yellow and green and cheer for the Aussies

2) I have epilepsy, but live a life which is probably not advised for people in my condition lol

3) I used to be a champion swimmer before I stopped training to concentrate on school work

4) The Little Mermaid is my favourite Disney movie and yes I know most of the songs off by heart " I wanna be where the people are, I wanna see, wanna see them dancing..."

5) I went to the same school as one of Donna Awatere Huata's daughters (she was a year ahead of me)

Have a great 2007!

Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas

Well it's Christmas and this city girl is heading to small town surburbia for the holidays this afternoon. Where the weather will be fine, it will be warm and wind will not mean I get left highly embarrassed on the corner of a major intersection after my skirt blows up.

I hope everyone here has a very Happy Holiday and gets some relaxation in - I know I will be.

Have a great Christmas and Happy New Year - don't do anything I wouldn't.

Goodbye

Marian Hobbs has officially announced that she will not be contesting the Wellington Central seat in the 2008, this is a sad lost for the Wellington Central electorate, as Marian is a fantastic MP admired by people from across the political spectrum, as she will stand up for what she believes in, even if that means getting the PM's back up.

I had the wonderful opportunity of working for Marian, she was a great boss. The way she dealt with things, and even in some really 'interesting'(the niceset way to phrase it) times she kept a cool head on her. She also offered lots of support and advice on work related things, but also in times of personal need.

Marian has been in Parliament for 12 years, been in Cabinet and then stepped back, she feels that she has gone in, worked her bum off, and now should take a step back to allow for rejuvenation, she was never a "career politician" unlike many others in Parliament.

Marian will be heading over to the UK to teach after the 2008 election, I wish her all the best and thank her for the way in which she has looked after the people of Wellington Central and for her work in Parliament as well.

More Money

Minimum wages are set to incerase by $1, from $10.25 to $11.25 on April 1 next year. This is great news for unions and workers who have long been struggling to get a wage increase.

Although, I would have preferred Youth Rates to have been abolished, I am pleased that they too will get an increase with an 80c wage rise to $9 an hour.

I am slightly worried about how businesses may react to this, and therefore not employ unskilled workers and young people. However, there are plenty of jobs which skilled persons usually do not apply for and therefore I do not feel that there is suddenly going to a massive increase in the unemployment levels - as some people believe this is what will happen.

Hopefully under the Labour Government we will get a minimum wage of $12 an hour at the end of 2008, because chances of that happening under a National Government are slim to none.

Police Protection

The New Zealand Police are being given protective body armour to wear to emergency calls. The first area to receive the gear is Counties Manakau. They will be followed by Auckland, Northshore and Northland.

I think it is a pity that NZ has come to a point where our police force need to be dressed in such gear, because the risk of being hurt or killed on the job has increased significantly.

However, even though the Police now have extra protection, they will still need to use their tactical training to deal with the criminal/s, as protective gear does not do that. Hopefully the extra weight will not impede police from being able to give chase if necessary.

I am pleased that the Police will now be better protected, I just hope that it also means that the people of New Zealand will be as well.

Please report it and get help!

Here is a letter that one of the victims of the recent spate of date rapings in Taranaki wrote. It is sad and it certainly moved me to tears.

If you or anyone you know has been a victim to this, and not just in Taranaki, go to the police. It does not matter if you can not remember descriptions, times etc REPORT IT! Rape is not something you bring on yourself, the person who commits such offences should be in jail to prevent them hunting on innocent people.

While you are out partying, and especially at this time of year, be aware of your drink, your friends drink and people around you. Also keep an eye on the amount you and your friends are drinking, and if someone seems remarkablyl drunk for the amount they have to drink there is a warning sign and you should report is ASAP.

If you do fall victim to such a horrific attack go to a Police Station or dial 111, then get some counselling this can be sought from Rape Crisis or privately. People are there to help you through such an experience so use them, because keeping it inside will not help

Not your typical request...

Durex are looking for people to help test their products.

I am intrigued as to how exactly this works, do people ring up on an individual basis and then get paired with someone, or do couples sign up, or does a person get given some magazines and a room and then they see if anything leaks though.

I always figured that Durex must have some way on testing their products, I guess i never really thought about how it was done.

And the winner is....

The winner of North and South New Zealander of the Year is .... Gareth Morgan.

It was a lovely event, held at the Boatshed on the Taranaki Wharf, beautiful weather, plenty of food and alcohol.

A few brief speeches and it was a pleasant way to spend ones evening.

For more on the winner purchase the January issue of North and South.

Susan Wood

This is just a quick post that:

Susan Wood has resigned from being the presenter of Close Up effective immediately.

She has a lump on her neck and wishes to spend more time on her health and her family.

Mark Sainsbury and Paul Henry will cover the position until a replacement is found.

Why bother keeping the law the same???

So although it has been decided to keep the drinking age 18 and above, rather than raising it back up to 20, it appears that some bars are taking matters into their own hands.

Does this mean someone could open a bar and ban all over 40s, so as there are no seedy creepy older guys in the bars??? (see stereotyping is BAD) It is ridiculous. Even if 18 and 19 year olds are deemed to be less socially responsible with their drinking, they can always be asked to leave, or kicked out, if the bar staff or bouncers feel that they have had too much to drink.

I have also been told that there are a number of bars in Wellington that are refusing entry to people under twenty and have no doubts that this will be happening in most major cities.

I would appreciate if anyone knows of any bars which are doing this to list their name and city of location under comments.

The stadium solution

Hahahaha. God this is funny. Nice one, Farrar.

Boobs beat safe sex

So, The Advertising Standards Authoirty said "condoms bad" but the Broadcasting Standards Authority say "boobs on bikes - great!" - ok yes I get that boobs on bikes for some people is appealing, but these different rulings seem stupid.

I mean Boobs on Bikes is part of the Erotica Expo, so what, we can have women displaying themselves on the streets where children may see. But we can't put condoms in letterboxes which children may also find and then learn how to be safe. What does boobs on bikes teach them - that women should be oggled and there for people to dream about???

I think both should be allowed, and then children can be told (especially boys) if you want to be with one of the girls on the bikes and do all sorts of 'naughty' things then make sure you use a condom - provided courtesy of hell's pizza.

I am sure if the girls on the bikes were throwing out condoms there would be complaints, but I am sure no complaint would be upheld. Maybe its true - having boobs will get you out of almost anything.

The Boobs on Bikes dismissed complaint article can be found at :http://xtramsn.co.nz/news/0,,11964-6638659,00.html

Suprise, Suprise

Well Hell's Pizza have been found in breach of the Advertising Standards when Members of the Advertising Standards authority unanimously agreed the promotion breached basic principle 4 of the code, which requires advertisements to be prepared with a sense of social responsibility.

Family First and Family Life are claiming it as a victory, that will see companies cautious of putting out smutty campaigns.

For more info the stuff story is at :http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3882877a11,00.html

John Quays

I was sent this email entitled " I wonder if this song by the fall will come to haunt national"

It made me think lol, and so have decided to share it:

NO X-MAS FOR JOHN QUAYS
The x in x-mas is a substitute crucifix for Christ
No Christmas for John Quays

The powders reach
And the powders teach
And when you find they can't reach
There is no Christmas for junky

He thinks he is
More interesting
Than the world
But buying cigs
Puts him in a whirl

A packet of three-five fives
555
A packet of those over there
And 20 special offer cigars

Found talking to the cigarette machine
Into nicotinic acid
Good king Wenceslaus, he looked out
Silly bugger, he fell out

He spits in the sky
It falls in his eye
Then he gets to sit in
Talking to his kitten

And talking about Frankie Lymon

Tell me why is it so?
Tell me why is it so?

Out of his face with The Idle Race
Out of the room with his tune

Although the skins are thin
He knows its up to him
To go out or stay in

I'll stay in
I'll stay in

You
Me
X-Mas
X-Mas

There is no Christmas for junkies
No girls
No curls
Just the traffic passing by
Bye bye bye bye bye bye bye bye
1,2,3,4

No X-mas for John Quays

ME... according to Cosmo

So I was bored at work and over the past few days have taken a number of Cosmo quizzes.
I promise I only did each one once and was honest - so here is a brief description of what I am like, well at least according to Cosmo, and Elle Woods said, Cosmo is the Bible.

AM I BAD GIRL?
Slightly sinful femme

Sure, you'll toss your Clooneyesque boss a compliment, ditch your diet for a night of chocolate bliss or hook up with a random guy on holidays, but there's always a deliberation process that keeps you in check. "You know how to let loose and live in the moment, but you always weigh up the consequences before acting," says psychologist Dr Nancy Rosenbach. What's the secret of your self-control? "You know that it can be even more enjoyable to be slightly bad and savour it, rather than being full-blown naughty and suffer for it," says Tracey Cox, author of Superdate. "You'll flirt with a guy who's taken and enjoy yourself, but won't push it to a point where it compromises a friend's trust. Similarly, you'll relish a random day off, but you realise that being a serial skipper doesn't give you a rush, just a slacker rep."


HOW FABULOUS AM I?
You're a fabulous femme

You’re confident, charismatic, and super-sexy, but you don’t flash it in everyone else’s face – that’s what makes you truly fab. Sure, you’ll toot your horn a little at an interview or dress to wow your new boyf’s friends, but you don’t try so hard to impress that you steal everyone else’s thunder.Because you’re so secure, you don’t feel the need to bulldoze people to prove you’re worthy of getting what you want, says Julia Bourland, author of The Go-Girl Guide (amazon.com). For example, when your stylist gives you highlights that would even scare Pink, you feel entitled to a redo but ask for it nicely. Similarly, you don’t put guys through hell when they don’t give you 110 per cent of their attention. Still, you will give a distracted date a subtle reminder (“Waiter, a glass of your best merlot, please!”) that you’re worth your weight in golden mobile phone minutes. Cheers to you, sister!

AM I FUN TO BE AROUND?
You're a good-time gal

Your definition of fun isn’t pushing yourself to the limit but finding pleasurable ways to unwind. For instance, you’ll skip out of work early and hit a party with colleagues after a tough day, but you don’t go overboard, dance with every guy in the place, and end up missing work the next day to recover. “You’ve achieved a sense of balance,” says Cameron Tuttle, author of The Bad Girl's Guide to the Party Life (amazon.com). “You know when it’s important to get out of your serious mind-set and let loose, even if you’re feeling stressed or worried about something. You also know when it’s wise to spend quality time by yourself on the couch.”Similarly, you don’t need to prove to everyone what a fun person you are. If skydiving sounds less than enjoyable, you’re not about to free-fall just to impress a new guy. Still, you’re flexible enough to step outside your comfort zone occasionally. Because of your mix of charisma and calm, both friends and potential boyfriends find you enchanting to be around.

ARE YOU A BALL BUSTER?
Balanced babeCongrats!

You know when to stick up for yourself and when to let things slide - and you do it all with the utmost finesse. You're secure enough to tell a guy when you think he's done something dastardly, but you are also tolerant enough to accept his shortcomings. You're unabashed and don't let people walk all over you, but you also don't boss them around. Instead, you know how to negotiate and motivate people so they do their best and get their fair share. "By combining empathy and caring with confidence, you get fabulous results more often," says psychologist Dr Vivien Wolsk. Your self-esteem is alluring to those around you. That's why you're the one to snag the promotion, hook the guy or attract the gang of fab friends. In the end, you're most likely to succeed in everything because you know how to keep yourself and those around you content.

Riiight

Oh. My. God.

As Pam requested...

Last Book read: Blindsight, Maurice Gee

Last time you cried: Can't remember exactly, maybe last saturday?

Last Drink: Long Island Iced Tea (last night) ... i have drunk far too much since thursday night

Last indulgence: Krispa Salt 'n' Vinegar Chippies

Current Book reading: nothing... finished book metioned above ten minutes ago

Boredom level right now: If I did not feel like a bear with a sore head it would be high

Favourite Movies: The Sweetest Thing, The Hairy Bird (fantastic girl power), Mr Holland's Opus, Bridget Jones and Love Actually (best christmas movie)

Favourite Tv Shows: Greys Anatomy, Desperate Housewives, ER

Favourite drink: Absolut Vanilla Vodka, Gingerale and Lime.... to die for

Favourite foods: Pizza, Chocolate, Mars Bars

Favourite ice-cream: Chocolate Eclair

Do you have a tattoo: No

Want a tattoo? No (i hate needles). But if I was it would probably be a small aussie flag or shamrock

Piercings: Ears

Currently doing: Checking emails, and listening to radio. Drinking lots of water!

Hate is not a family value

One of the saddest parts about our society is that these arguments, before the humorous common sense, are the real reasons why people can't accept gay marriages.

Written more for an American audience...

1) Being gay is NOT natural. Real people always reject unnatural things like eyeglasses, polyester, and air conditioning.

2) Gay marriage will encourage people to be gay, in the same way that hanging around tall people will make you tall.

3) Gay marriage will change the foundation of society; we could never adapt to new social norms. Just like we haven't adapted to cars, the service-sector economy, or longer life spans.

4) Straight marriage has been around a long time and hasn't changed at all; women are still property, blacks still can't marry whites, and divorce is still illegal.

5) Straight marriage would be less meaningful if gay marriage were allowed; the sanctity of Britney Spears' 55-hour just-for-fun marriage would be destroyed.

6) Straight marriages are valid because they produce children. Gay couples, infertile couples, and old people shouldn't be allowed to marry because our orphanages aren't full yet, and the world needs more children.

7) Obviously gay parents will raise gay children, since straight parents only raise straight children.

8) Gay marriage is not supported by religion. In a theocracy like ours, the values of one religion are imposed on the entire country. That's why we have only one religion in America.

9) Children can never succeed without a male and a female role model at home. That's why we as a society expressly forbid single parents to raise children.

10) Legalizing gay marriage will open the door to all kinds of crazy behavior. People may even wish to marry their pets because a dog has legal standing and can sign a marriage contract.

Hell's Pizza campaign.... seen as hellish

So the crowds have complained about the hell's pizza campaign using condoms to the advertising complaints authority and Family First are over the moon : http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO0611/S00208.htm

I admit that maybe Hell's Pizza did not target their campaign in the right areas, nevertheless the uproar surrounding it has undoubtedly created alot more publicity for the company... even I admit that I went into get a pizza from them only a few days later to see if they actually had the condoms in store as well - they certainly did and one of the guys who worked at this store told me they had had heaps of people coming in and asking them about the campaign, so I do not really see why Family First are happy they have helped create a successful campaign for a something they were against.

If Hell's Pizza end up getting fined, the extra revenue they have generated from the help of Family First and other complainants will help cover the cost I am sure.

Exercise the fun way...

I discovered this story this morning on stuff:
http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3859887a11,00.html

It is interesting because Salient earlier this year ran an article about pole-dancing as a form of exercise. I must admit I was a bit skeptical at first, but now have decided that I may just do it - it is supposed to be really good for you and gives you a great work out.

My next step is to get over the fact that people are going to see me walking into Santa Fe (a strip bar in wellington) at 7pm on a tuesday and thursay night. And wellington is such a small town who knows what kind of rumours could start.... although I think I would prefer the rumour I am a stripper compared to the one I was joining ACT!!!

This new exercise regime has taken off over the world with movie stars jumping on it, Teri Hatcher swears by it and even did a demonstration on Oprah. I am sure it would also spice things up in th bedroom.

So, I think I may take on this new and exciting form of exercise, I just have to swallow my pride. If any one else feels like joining me let me know and I am sure it will be fun.

To keeping fit and healthy....

A xxoo

PAY IT BACK

It always makes my day when I still see some intelligent comments on Kiwiblog. No disrespect against DPF, who at least makes intelligent commentary as opposed to the other right wing blogs out there which offer no new material and just reiterate National Party wank.

"Refusing to pay the GST on the media advertising spending was clearly and unambiguously illegal. Bash [sic] helped to design New Zealand’s current GST policy in the 1980s so it’s hard to imagine that the Nats weren’t aware of this. The Nats should bite the bullet and pay the GST back, and then pay the fine for the overspending. It's the only honourable course of action. Refusing to pay the fine would be like getting a whole pile of illegal drugs on tick and refusing to pay for them would because it would provide evidence for consuming the drugs. What National is essentially trying to do now is say, “oh, we now want to pay for the drugs, but are now aware that doing so would incriminate us, so how about we just change the law so it’s legal to pay the dealer back Sorry, but that just ain’t going to fly with any right minded person."

Phillip John

I'm sure I've just effectively opened the floodgates. Flame away!

txt spk ok 4 xams, or is that xms?

As a member of the first group of students that were examined under NCEA we constantly had drummed into us that we needed to have correct spelling as it could determine the difference between an achieved, merit, or excellence.

I am outraged that students are going to be able to use txt language - but does it have to be 'correct' language because there are so many variations how on earth is a marker supposed to be able decifer some words - i am 20 can barely make out what some of them are - or should I say "sme of dem r"

Seems hypocritical in an ENGLISH exam not to have to use correct english (and stupid as well), spelling is a skill they are going to need at uni and in jobs, especially as spell check not always accurate

Cme on NZQA gt ur sht 2gtha

American Politics & Alcohol

Donald Rumsfeld has stepped down as US Secretary of Defence, only a day after the American mid-term elections.

The article on stuff http://www.stuff.co.nz/stuff/0,2106,3855235a10,00.html has an excellent quote from Bush stating that the Iraq policy was "not working well enough, fast enough"... more like its not working at all.

Very pleased to see that the Democrats have one power of Congress and are currently only one seat away from controlling the senate... the next two years are going to be very interesting to follow and the next presidential election will be better yet.

YAY!!! NZ politicians have voted to keep the drinking age at 18, pleased to see they realised that raising the drinking age back to 20 would not have fixed the drinking problems that NZ faces. Now that this bill has failed maybe they will work on some good campaigns done through the media which could work well, as have the drink driving and "make it click" campaigns

Super Busy...

Have been remarkably busy today...

Have been following drinking age debate, I think it is great to see the youth branches of most political parties working together to make sure that this bill gets defeated, and are collectively working for the benefit of youth - the people who we essentially represent.

There has been some good media coverage - TV1, TV3 and stuff (probably others as well)

For those who do not know I also post on http://windycitygirl06.blogspot.com this offers a bit more a personal side to me rather than mainly politics... maybe those of you who want to know who I am can do it this way hehe

Saddam Hussein must die...

So Saddam Hussein has been sentenced to death by hanging, I do not know my exact stance on this, as I am against the death penalty, but we know that this guy is guilt beyond all doubt, and if one is to look for similar cases to base his sentence on, then we are forced to look at Nuremburg which tried Nazi war criminals - crimes against humanity, the same charge as Hussein had, and those men were condemned to death by hanging as well, so it is not like it is an out of line sentence.

I find it hard to believe that after everything he did that Iraqi's still worship him and are crying that he is to be hanged. I guess this too is probably similar after the end of WWII and how people remained loyal to Hitler, these seem two cases of true "dear leader".

Hi Everyone

Hi,

I have had the priviledge of being invited to contribute to this WONDERFUL blog by Pam, thanks.

A xxoo