'Get rid of your brain fuzz & A World First'

Initially I received a phone call from a colleague to go out to Aramoana to pay tribute on Anzac day.  What better way to remember those who dedicated their lives for such atrocities and a horrible war, than to go out to this special place, and remember those who have fallen and hope for the present wars that are occurring in the world to cease.

It was a howling southerly, and I was excited at the prospect of cycling out!  Jo wasn't that excited, however when we got out she loved it.

 We stopped in the windiest section to catch the above image.  Jo battled to hold the bike still - tricky with a tandem.  The ride out was a breeze with mainly tailwind with some wild cross winds.  As we biked down the mole I realised this could be the first sunrise tandem ride that has ever occurred on the mole.  Ah yes a 'world record' I say - I will calm that until proven otherwise.

At the mole we lazed out of the wind to enjoy breakfast and hot chocolates.  Jo makes the best hot chocolates and if you see her ask for one - super yum!  Unknown to us was a seal not far.  Their hard to sometimes spot and we only introduced ourselves as we left for home.

Once again the effort was worth it.  What we have discovered is a great way to 'start the day' and get rid of any brain fuzz for the day.  Some research says that technology ie screens, ie your computer and phones are a culprit to reducing your creativity and give you brain fuzz for the day.  We were certainly experiencing that.  So our recipe to start the day well, is to:

1. Do not look at the phone or computer first thing.
2. Do something that connects you to your body - activity ie swimming, cycling, walk the dogs, yoga, breathing with feet on the floor etc.
3. Do something creative - mine is photography, Jo is drawing.
4. Make a 'to do' list for the day

Then you may look at screens and phones.  So far it has helped our study and we are having far more productive days.  This sequence could be a short 15 minutes of longer.

Try it!  It is certainly a great way to reduce the brain fuzz and appreciate what is around you and loved ones.

And yes remembering those who have fought in many wars, including my Dad.  I miss Dad every day (and Mum), and there is not one day that goes by I don't think of them, nor my children and others.  Remembering should not be about re opening scars, but should be for healing and moving forward for a better place.  Can we do that.  My Dad got up for ANZAC day every time and would march in honour and it was a very different generation then.  I miss Dad every day!  And when you loose your parents there are so many conversations you wish you could have had.

Andy Thompson
www.andythompsonphotographynz.co.nz

Chasing the Sun's

There is a song called 'Chasing the Sun' by The Wanted and they sing;

I'm better

So much better now

I see the light, touch the light,

We're together now

I'm better

So much better now

Look to the skies, give me life

We're together now

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZIyYMjI-xFg  The song was used in the movie 'Ice Age' (better than their other version they have- more friendly).  It seems both Jo and I love doing exactly this - Chasing the Sun!  It is rather insane how we both love doing this.  It is beautiful to get out of bed and race out for that amazing spot to watch for a mere 15 short minutes the sun creep over the horizon to start our day.

This morning the plan was to do just that.  We got up at 0500 and raced out to what Jo had calculated to be just the spot. I also was hoping to get some star shots, however the coast had a light veil of cloud so it was not to be.

We arrived at Alans beach, and by torch light, with dogs on lead, we sunk through the sand to the beach.  Sea mist floated around and filled our torch beams, that reached out into the darkness.  We were on the alert for sea lions!

As we travelled down the beach to our viewing spot, one sea lion lolupped its way up the beach.  Avoiding her we gave a wide berth.  She was tempted to follow up, however finally seemed more intent on finding a nice spot to watch the sunrise as well.

While we stood on the beach, the sun seemed to be not where it was calculated to be.  We discovered that Jo had looked up the incorrect beach.... doh!

The hot chocolate Jo had kindly made helped.  Laughing at our mis calculation, we scampered off with just enough time to get to Taiaroa Heads.  We only just made it, however what a wonderful display of colour and awesomeness.

http://www.andythompsonphotographynz.co.nz/

We finished breakfast and trottled back home for study for the day.

Is the effort worth it?  In my opinion it is.  In fact I just saw Adain Summerfield take his kids up to Mt Cargill for the sunrise on FB - how cool is that and what a wonderful experience for them.  So it is worth chasing the sun.  Taking in the most wonderful colors and drinking the beautiful serenity or wildness of the mornings or evenings.  Way better than TV or other alternatives.  Next time you think its going to be a great morning do it, and encourage family, fiends or lovers to get out there and drink in the wonderful experiences we have on this planet.

Andy Thompson