tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76121381375316805752024-02-19T07:04:06.327-05:00* Bikbik and Roro *Bits of my lifeBIKBIK AND ROROhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688260142838394342noreply@blogger.comBlogger630125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7612138137531680575.post-19924234332913680822014-08-24T23:56:00.000-04:002014-08-25T07:59:39.049-04:00happiness is having a scratch for every itch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FlMOJQ-K_-c/U_puEIGyCUI/AAAAAAAAEPI/alZVgGL2-RI/s1600/BLOG2.jpg" /></div>
Hello everyone! How have you been? I trust all of you are keeping well and happy! While not actively aiming to, it does seem that I am posting about once a month now, and am finding that frequency the most comfortable at present. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwcFIZ99wEgYc7uwLyJQV3DWKS6O5d1vOleQate7htwqgYZOpv_Zs-ItY2Rsg2HMoxkjk8WgCFktj1rqXsKwo-TJoDcqPgTn3Wn8IplafKNsIZZx8PDNWsnLnJ9dWZVx3dtuWWKrO89q4X/s1600/fly2.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Sourced from <a href="http://www.terrain.net.nz/" target="_blank">T.E.R.R.A.I.N</a></span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
So -- I debated which picture should grace the top of this post, and decided that the dolly was significantly more pleasant to look at than this. For those of you who don't know, this thing -- this ****ing execrable, accursed thing -- is a sandfly. The reason I am giving it any attention at all -- which, trust me, it does <i>not </i>deserve -- is because my legs are covered in ****ing bites which itch like the ****ing.. Sylvanians. <br />
<br />
Yesterday, in a fit of exuberance, the kids and I decided to go to the beach, where we displayed our joie de vivre in watching the ships, hunting for seashells, building sandcastles, and yes, feeding sandflies. It was idiotic of me to go despite not having repellent on, but the kids were so keen, and we hadn't had any trouble with the bugs for quite some time; I thought it would be alright.<br />
<br />
Well, the upshot of it is that Ro and I pretty much fed the entire sandfly population there; the one comfort is that Jake came away completely unscatched, while Becky only got a bite or two. As anyone who's ever been bitten by sandflies knows, it's not till later than you really start clawing at yourself, which was where I was at about 4am, and where I still am now. Needless to say, I've tried everything I know how to quell this insane itching -- which far surpasses anything a mosquito can come up with -- and am now just trying to relieve myself by blogging.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jWs5y8lTcc4/U_qxQw9CyCI/AAAAAAAAEQo/nLflffzbjjs/s1600/crazy2.png" /></div>
<br />
For what it's worth, I thought I'd share with you what I did try, so you might know what works and what doesn't (honestly though, this is pretty much going to be a list of a whole bunch of things that don't work at all). Here we go anyway:<br />
<br />
1. Apple cider vinegar. Despite the cure-all this stuff is purported to be, it didn't do **** for the bites. We only ended up smelling funky.<br />
2. Zyrtec Allergy. I can only say it tasted quite nice.<br />
3. Mopiko. This is a Japanese menthol-based ointment used by generations of people here for bites; while it does work pretty decently on mosquito bites, it couldn't conquer the sandfly.<br />
4. Savlon. This is an antiseptic cream often used in first aid for wounds, nappy rash, and "bites". While that might even have included rattlesnake and rabid dog bites, it had no effect on the 15 ****ing *@#!&s dotting my legs.<br />
5. Steroid cream. Not sure what that did, despite the ominous-sounding literature that accompanied the tube.<br />
5. Hand sanitizer. This I just did out of desperation. Pointless of course, except for that two seconds of hope.<br />
6. Hot metal. Useful only for burning yourself in a fit of misdirected anger and loathing.<br />
7. Ice. Possibly the only slightly effective thing. It may well work for more than five seconds if you encase your legs in an entire tub of cubes. For a whole day.<br />
<br />
So there. That's everything I've tried so far. Any other suggestions? I had wanted to try tea tree oil applied neat, but <i>someone </i>had left my completely empty bottle in the bathroom without saying a word... If you have any ideas, even half-baked ones, please feel free to share. There is of course a plethora online, including toothpaste, garlic, lemon juice and urine -- I will probably try them all; well, except perhaps that last.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4r6h9tijo1M/U_puEBOkXLI/AAAAAAAAEPE/icM_V1cS9jA/s1600/BLOG.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
But on to something more pleasant. Dollyland is always fun (though, admittedly, even working on a new doll today did not help distract me). I'll just quickly share some dollies who went up for adoption. That little one up there is Oisín, my little deer girl. She's quite different from my other dollies obviously! She wears needle-felted deer ears, and I like the idea that she might be both a therianthrope -- half animal, half person -- as well as a little girl playing a game of make-believe. She was a big step out in faith for me, and I'm happy with her colouring, and sweet, gentle expression.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXHwxnvbNSVsdFYbskPIzMsGtoAmbwYH_ULeDfrbAbGb4NFEj8i8_VvI3Od5TNlfg7Mpk8z64dEfns-h28wXzfj31b6zbPgyZQbi9ZrI12JxiDRkmL_MLBpA-ayKVVUlHQ804Vg6SIsScu/s1600/BLOG.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This little minx is Juliette. I was thinking of Miles Davis and beatniks and smoky little dens where groovy hepcats wore stripey sweaters and spouted poetry. I gave her plenty of eyeliner, and eyebrows too! Juliette's mommy writes atmospheric stories about her dollies, in segments avidly followed by her readers, so I'm thrilled that Juliette has joined her cast of Jazz Age characters.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf5ZB7Bi5o3YbbpekfYg5QyK39-ZF0NuxO5bvTxW2TKFWs2_zdJnwOIUCFmjG89Bl1HFESB2WW0N8soYT5izeBeE9HsxlQH92MSprU387dE6qtFoODEBSmtaZ36tb07QiXD6Ftx1A92u2X/s1600/BLOG.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This curious thing is a Blythe doll faceplate; well, specifically, it's Persis' faceplate. I took a picture of it because I wanted to remember my first attempt at carving an actual open mouth -- not one that <i>appeared</i> open, but one that actually <i>is</i>. The opening in her mouth was made all the way through, and I fit little teeth in inside. This too was another big step out in faith -- thank you Lord!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ7YuU9YLvp9fBkvbNkJmWquFVcAxNXQnBybd4ZjrJ-b-J6XgIpyVMaW_7fvdMZmGVi0oAuWNEv4_0kykvLf1ND1oppBOpbSdlW0ho78r7Gj8oO16QnsdX_PtzvBCP1yVeBCv7jVI8W2HU/s1600/pers2a+(507x338).jpg" /></div>
Persis made me think of peacocks and fruit punch and tropical islands; I gave her a very bright, vibrant faceup. I really love her, so I'm glad she's been adopted by a wonderful lady in the States.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK9TSreP1HkXK7JD1hIE7m6519FFxALyiTvP_BTqmdKy8oa_NkwFVo2-CX2fL5-AyxxXx1nfYXnyRJGcVJ5cexGo-S-WGtPBAxm3iXv293tbixCfBVtPhlyXsb7ggdF4IpJnJFbgdRRlG8/s1600/BLOG.jpg" /></div>
So little Nova here is still waiting for her mommy or daddy. She is a sort of sister to <a href="http://bikbikroro.blogspot.sg/2014/07/just-another-little-update.html" target="_blank">Electra</a>, with her galactic eyelids and star cluster tattoo. Her blue-lilac hair is really lush -- the thickest I've ever come across. She's hoping she'll find her home really soon! Bloggy friends, feel free to make an offer if you like :)<br />
<br />
I'm off now to meditate/scream silently/pee on the *@#%ing bites -- I'll catch up with all of you really soon! Keep well, dear friends, and use repellent!!<br />
<br />BIKBIK AND ROROhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688260142838394342noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7612138137531680575.post-54729688753584155932014-07-20T01:08:00.000-04:002014-07-22T19:49:33.773-04:00just another little update :)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQAUsVfE2FyUK3n1oh_qQ3ffh7GnzzAh6KkOxD6SQ7Kt2BxyYOIqx9DJCYjq-_bApDvMnxDwgOpJKrqFrJ7_khv1IbTbGV5LklpWmLyoz1DVIg-hU_ed3CKJ4ztd1LHCkPi7gXx7MZq4iu/s1600/el29+-+BLOG.jpg" /></div>
<br />
Hi everyone! How have you been? Yes, it's another weekend! Thank you so much to everyone who's still faithfully sticking with me :) I shan't be writing much this time round, as I'm under the influence of some meds that are making me really drowsy. It's quite miserable really, but I'm trusting God for complete healing in His perfect timing, so I'm pressing on (but will talk with the doctor about getting on a different med)! Your prayers would also be greatly appreciated :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxPnNe3H00SHTTRXrXi27B2EtPkmi7u6AYS_WaQTomNM-HVwcS4UarCcbQOXKigcAfKH2sTlBaPGHnTxTjsSUdbSnkb_J5s4GJbGG68uD9hAEXHyEwuUabojMCIuy_aPBfehPfC5i77rkD/s1600/el18b+-+BLOG.jpg" /></div>
Well, this here is Electra, one of two little girls up for adoption in the shop now; she was inspired by my love for stars -- Electra is the name of a giant blue star in the constellation of Taurus. She is one of the nine brightest stars in the Pleiades open cluster; I even "tattooed" the cluster on Electra's body -- it runs down the side of her neck and across her chest. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tjRvjOYltt8/U8s8ZWPwWeI/AAAAAAAAENQ/y4sRBgZ0UGM/s1600/elo3+-+BLOG.jpg" /></div>
And this is Elodie, my sweet little hippie. I had the song <i>San Francisco</i> by John Phillips (and sung by Scott McKenzie) running through my head the entire time I was carving and painting; needless to say, I <i>had </i>to make her a floral head wreath! Again, both girls are looking for forever homes now; bloggy friends, feel free to make an offer if you like :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9znIn73uTaxn6B4I-VNj0tRePa6QpMXVQnM0rb5UI3YS7FSwlDudhflsD6tmUz9aUoOTK4RKEShyphenhyphenke-I4fJanotuDMRJU9z8bu_nH8KIfnZ7Uc1yUtubXGr4R7qg4ZnBDsJdGiJ861Lcz/s1600/tov15a+-+BLOG.jpg" /></div>
In other dolly news, Tova's hair finally came! It suits her so perfectly I think; she looks so adorable and naughty and loving and playful all at the same time -- just like a real child. Here she is with her best friend, Rufus the bear.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ize4qA03g9E/U8s8Vl4aX_I/AAAAAAAAENI/jguXWX5rccU/s1600/tov17a+-+BLOG.jpg" /></div>
Several people did ask me about Rufus; they'd never seen a teddy quite like him before. Indeed, Rufus was a kind of "holy grail" for me as an antique and vintage bear collector; he is a 19" Tru-to-Life American Black Bear made by Dean's Rag Book Co. in the 50s. Happily, Rufus' fur and rubber molded parts are still in lovely condition; being unjointed and stuffed with excelsior and kapok, he is wonderfully floppy and weighty, and feels just like a real cub might if you were to carry him. His legs are sewn to the front of his body, so that he is always in a sitting position, but he is perfect for Tova to lie on. Doesn't he have the sweetest expression?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Well, that's all for now -- but o! before I go, a few long-overdue shots of little Jakey. He's just turned one; how time flies! He can walk now and is such a bundle of adorableness -- he makes any post-childbirth ailments worthwhile. Sorry these pictures are so dreadful in terms of lighting and composition -- I grab what I can, when I can lol! (and yes, that unholy mess you see in the background is part of my tiny "art studio").<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBJ0NvWP941LUoq99MCnODImjlOlncQwohhAw4rlAEY3UAe1JhTE5a_iLInImtxXYNx52T2T16g_gze8QTN0ZQmi3zHOzyRraYzr59LZiqx8KoJW8ubVG0ohMtJGNsYRYD_dzegkaePu7b/s1600/2+-+BLOG.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K91Z81RbDso/U8tKQp9b4DI/AAAAAAAAEN8/oDzx0RMrPWQ/s1600/3+-+BLOG.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWt4x1ZHqnot3UqA4beLodNmwSZfBmykQpfx91CgAFmd_3VOb-BeR95JWaveAwY14oVG9mBXwix9qGEnx5Kn79VCpro_iGATgMBI-bPIl2hyytYs2lG6GybqQBg0CsfW8JIKn-U6xR8X6y/s1600/4+-+BLOG.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And one last thing -- have you heard of <a href="http://us.moo.com/" target="_blank">moo.com</a>? Moo is an award-winning online printing company -- they help customers print business cards, postcards, stickers, letterheads and so forth. No, I am not being paid, or even asked, to write this lol, but I have personally had good experiences with them, and would recommend their services. They're having a sitewide 25% off sale at the moment, but it'll be over come the 21st. If you'd like to get 10% discount off your first order (and help me earn some money off my next one!) just follow this link: <a href="http://www.moo.com/share/ts6zbs" target="_blank">http://www.moo.com/share/ts6zbs</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
OK, happy, blessed weekend and new week everyone!! See you again soon!!</div>
<br />BIKBIK AND ROROhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688260142838394342noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7612138137531680575.post-50493523335230151652014-06-22T01:45:00.001-04:002014-06-22T06:13:36.041-04:00just a little update :)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-edQMUhY04lg/U6ZeSCyGZ4I/AAAAAAAAELo/O-syfcRo1uQ/s1600/gyp6+%2528507x338%2529.jpg" /></div>
<br />
Ah, another weekend. And I just realised my last post was over a month ago -- a first for me, excepting perhaps that time when I had morning sickness. The blog has always been in the back of my mind though, but I'm really coming to that point of acceptance that I will not be blogging as regularly as I did before; in fact, I'd be content to post perhaps once a month, at least till Jakey is a little older. In truth, the thought did cross my mind to leave off blogging altogether, but remembering the friends I've made and who have been so supportive -- as well as those who would bother to leave comments or email me telling me how helpful or encouraging something I'd written was -- gave me pause.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXiLpEBBHY0OzxvHqp_7lSw_JM45uxjP_w_QA2_D78lZor57U2YqWoo4c7Cm7U7tERcIC1bRw3efR2gzG2XF-ZPwhU31Uimmjpx7PPtUeCAaGKr4-yC2AukWkimmdp5F-MlTH5QyR6Wb0T/s1600/hot4+%2528507x380%2529.jpg" /></div>
So as I've a bit of free time today, I decided to write a bit. Warning though -- this post is decidedly dollyish in tone haha.. but after all, that is part of what I do to earn my keep now! Thanks to my work, I was able to bring the girls on a little staycation at the start of this June holiday -- the hubs was away on a lovely European business trip for two weeks and I felt the girls deserved a bit of time away as well. We had a splendid time of course, but I think the girls would agree one of the really high points was going to see <i>Maleficent</i>! Did you all manage to catch it too? If you didn't, you really ought to. Angelina Jolie was just perfect, and the film was really so lovely -- and of course, as Disney would always have it, I teared up.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DiiSOEcyPmA/U6Zdxxxxd6I/AAAAAAAAELg/XNBs0A0Ei0o/s1600/pop8+%2528507x338%2529.jpg" /></div>
But now -- on to dolly business! First a couple of girls who came and went over the past month -- Starling, right at the top there, and redheaded Poppy here.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BYxTyKyqm7o/U6ZdUAh1LNI/AAAAAAAAEKo/Y5LLVMyhlNY/s1600/raf20+%2528507x338%2529.jpg" /></div>
In the shop now is Skylar, whose hair I spent a great deal of time dyeing violet, pink and blue. Dyeing, especially synthetic materials, is a tricky affair, but that's part of the fun I think! Plus it definitely guarantees the OOAK nature of the doll.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCHFUmg2kt_6b97cM108dfPyPXg3NX_1yXkQrd2lTWR72oV5BrbDgEnL82FkYv_BSL4Kiamre6KBWmmlJX_F4HbdRTAy9ZoIKgcMpZsuST56R2CrEH6GeuDWganUZgD_8Xfn-Xa0oFEq8E/s1600/raf13a+%2528507x338%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Skylar's eyelids :) </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iO6jvR1kRdU/U6Zc-DSQz7I/AAAAAAAAEKU/JuU2ecJMphA/s1600/pan5+blue+%2528507x338%2529.jpg" /></div>
Since getting more involved in the Blythe community, I've come to learn more about other kinds of collectible dolls, in particular, the kind known as ball-jointed dolls, or BJDs. BJDs are articulated dolls, and their parts are strung together with elastic, giving them the ability to "move" and pose. Some of them are quite tiny, about 4" tall, while others tower at 24". Pandora here is a 16" BJD, and my first!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidmF9CGFoyYgyUH3QbIP9xaxE7ZxqeLGBr3z0t7quGvuDLTmotG2qN8VIH_0PcBcjj0_Cnj9QeaqLbyx4yL3M78c2Q9XnvPicGlHrmRRSBJgkRz0sK_E3IYYnNym4XSZmAfxNAeQzLFJ3L/s1600/pan6a+%2528338x507%2529.jpg" /></div>
The fun thing about many BJDs is that they're easy to customise -- well, easier than Blythe at any rate, I think. You can paint them, and change their eyes and hair. I deepened Pandora's faceup and gave her new eyes and hair. The girls love her pale, but I personally have a thing for redheads :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A3eKeYulX0M/U6ZdNFYlNpI/AAAAAAAAEKg/wKhkLnb6kHk/s1600/pan7+%2528683x1024%2529+%2528338x507%2529.jpg" /></div>
Pandora is from a line of what I consider "mature" BJDs -- as in, I feel they look like young adults. They have very well-developed figures and some are very busty, quite different from Blythe. In this picture, Pandora is wearing what I call her "mature" hair haha..<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl4LaVMw3IvM_pV1I88wbsTXRTFLhHtUVSBvp2mHBocmtHCQWHJqzdI19041LPSn7EV6JolYzR3sl-BvFdtLOV-gSdysVYxCxHDTnXDFZld1M6Bk2K7EeY_ST-Rf7db0FWRfc3xjKNFQf4/s1600/spar1+%2528507x338%2529.jpg" /></div>
And so, because I was loving working on Pandora, I decided to explore other BJDs as well. The next one that captured my attention was this little Secretdoll Person. Persons are funny little BJDs measuring only about 7 1/2" (as a reference, Blythe is 11"), with distinctive pouts and a Yoshitomo Nara-esque face. Here, I've opened up the Person and stripped off the original faceup.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B1GQEUkziF4/U6Zdo1m_f4I/AAAAAAAAELI/-fBkeCoOlCY/s1600/spar3+%2528507x338%2529.jpg" /></div>
I learned soon enough that they were fiddly little beasties -- the tiny face made the carving and colouring quite a delicate, tedious affair.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UhxuZUt1fGg/U6Z6n3a0IHI/AAAAAAAAEMc/nS-kUAaBgBc/s1600/spar9a+%2528507x338%2529.jpg" /></div>
I finally got Tova done after a great deal of futzing. Persons are sent with random wigs, but since we hated the one they sent us -- something resembling a dried bush -- I had to leave Tova sitting about like this. Which did look a little pathetic.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyVNagSLgmfqa82FLYcNGN9pqersp69IrY3g_S3zB3nmqXk_vBcftS6csnL3jdhw52OBLvZwN0_r6UZZMGV1bvq7N1stTHXRo4cFh_OHPkg907SU2Mvch6rBE9-qBaTY9DKqpM95vzcLJh/s1600/spar7a+%2528507x338%2529.jpg" /></div>
So Pandora has let her borrow her "mature" hair till her own arrives. Pandora's head is a good deal larger than Tova's, so she looks like a teeny tiny disco queen haha..<br />
<br />
Well, that's all for now -- I mean to catch up on my blog-reading while I still have some time now, so I'll see you again.. in awhile! Have a super lovely weekend, dear friends!<br />
<br />BIKBIK AND ROROhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688260142838394342noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7612138137531680575.post-35336806753337652182014-05-17T02:27:00.000-04:002014-05-17T23:49:57.675-04:00on being happy regardless<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnuSn2rAukofi4IaKobqvCLc8a3NI3RfRZQlTo-T7LCPlbkothbJyy8tkndAbh3x2PYntf-L2JTEMBt80u8T62-q9q8AmCRj2uU-c7Ia8NY4N8oFkZZe3RlpMpDxfPAwUvPaBCBZhL_s8k/s1600/sco48+%2528505x337%2529.jpg" /></div>
<br />
Ah, the weekend at last. Though Jakey has no respect for the sanctity of weekend R&R -- he literally knocks on my door every single morning at 6am (or earlier!) -- I do get to sleep a little more while the hubs goes pick him up, and I'm spared the rigours of french-braiding the girls' hair.<br />
<br />
Anyway, I did want to share with you this book I discovered a few days back. I was catching up with a neighbour of mine who lives down the street -- she was lamenting the increase in her and her daughter's allergy sufferings ever since major construction work began behind our houses, on which daily meds have had no effect. I totally sympathised, because I've been observing the irritating effects myself -- smarty eyes and Ro's stuffiness and sneezing.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, the work is happening on the side where our bedrooms are, which necessitates keeping the windows perpetually shut -- while that may be keeping outdoor crap at bay, it's also keeping indoor crap in. I've decided to open the windows when it rains, but then they don't call it a drought for nothing.<br />
<br />
Anyway, while we chatting, I saw this book on her table -- <i>Stop Being Your Symptoms And Start Being Yourself</i>, by Arthur J. Barsky, a professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and director of psychiatric research at Brigham and Women's Hospital; and Emily C. Deans, a clinical instructor in psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and a practicing psychiatrist in the Boston community. Opening it at random, I was struck by the point the authors made about how, in our modern world, we are "doing better and feeling worse" -- or the paradox of medical progress -- i.e., while we've now overcome many of the diseases that used to cause sudden or untimely death, like pneumonia or TB,we've had more limited medical progress with the "chronic diseases and frailties that come with a longer life...<br />
<br />
"The result of these medical advances is that while they enable us to live longer, the proportion of life spent in ill health has actually increased. Our dramatic gains in lifesaving treatments have increased the proportion of people living with chronic ailments. Dementia is a vivid and omnipresent example. The incidence of dementia is rising because we can now treat the pneumonia, kidney failure and heart attacks that used to end people's lives before they grew old enough to become demented..."<br />
<br />
"Trends in contemporary American society aggravate our distress and make coping with symptoms more difficult. They influence our personal psychology by heightening unrealistic expectations and supplying idealised images of good health, coaxing us into making upward comparisons. This in turn amplifies symptoms and makes them harder to live with... Our standard for judging good health has been elevated so much that we are now more bothered by symptoms and infirmities that in the past we were able to tolerate better".<br />
<br />
My friend was reading the book because, as all sufferers of chronic ailments know, it's easy to sometimes get depressed, overwhelmed or anxious about one's symptoms. Well, of course I asked to borrow the book. According to the synopsis, the book explains the six-week program designed by Dr Barsky to overcome the symptoms of chronic illnesses.<br />
<br />
The program "teaches patients to master the five psychological factors that make chronic symptoms persist through hundreds of exercises, worksheets, and patient examples. You may not be able to completely eliminate your medical symptoms. But it is possible to control your symptoms rather than letting them control you—to manage your pain, fatigue, insomnia, and anxiety. You can minimize your symptoms, learn new coping skills, and do more to make sure that your symptoms are not robbing your life of meaning and pleasure". Sounds good right?<br />
<br />
Well, I'm still in the first couple of chapters, but thought I'd share a bit with you. "Two very important psychological factors determine how much our illnesses bother us and how satisfied we are with our state of health: our <i>expectations </i>about how healthy or ill we should be; and the health of those to whom <i>we compare ourselves</i>. In general, our satisfaction with a situation depends in large measure on what we think that state of affairs <i>should </i>be... Your dissatisfaction and distress with your health are relative and determined by comparing yourself to some standard -- that is, some imagined ideal of how healthy you should feel... We view our own situation in a more favourable light when we become aware of others who are in more difficult situations and confronted with worse problems".<br />
<br />
And then from Chapter 3, or Week 1 of the program: "The attention you pay to a troubling symptom is one of the most important factors in how you perceive it. The more you concentrate on an unpleasant or uncomfortable sensation, the worse it becomes over time... If concentrating on a symptom increases sensitivity and discomfort, it follows that lessening the attention you pay it will decrease discomfort... you have the power to improve symptoms by distracting yourself and learning to ignore them".<br />
<br />
In asking readers to track their focus on symptoms, the authors write, "Are you surprised by how much time you spend thinking about your discomfort, fatigue or pain? Were there times in the day when you did not think of the symptoms? What were you doing during those times? Wht did you do that made you think about the symptoms more? Is there a way to increase the amount of time spent in activities that help you decrease the discomfort from your symptom?" And then, in the "List of Distractions": "Spend time on an enjoyable craft project" -- yay! (<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>all extracts from </i>Stop Being Your Symptoms And Start Being Yourself<i>, by Arthur J. Barsky and Emily C. Deans</i></span>).<br />
<br />
Of course, this book is written from a secular standpoint, and the Christians among us should already know and trust that Jehovah Rapha -- the Lord our Healer -- is always with us and wants to bless, heal and restore us, in His perfect way and timing. We need to always walk in faith, and speak positive words over our lives, however things may seem or appear. As Joyce Meyer writes, "After praying for healing, at least give God the same opportunity as you would a bottle of medicine! Keep taking your medicine, the Word, and continue leaning on God in absolute trust and confidence (Col 2:5)" (<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>from </i>Be Healed In Jesus' Name<i>, by Joyce Meyer</i></span>). But this book looks to be a promising read, and I know many of you do live with chronic discomforts and ailments that can be quite trying, to say the least. It's a great comfort to know you're really not alone though, isn't it! Do feel free to email me if you want to know more, or just need a shoulder :)<br />
<br />
But on to some other fun-ner stuff. First off, I was really tickled by the reactions to my last post on the fwooarishly droolworthy Morten Harket -- friends even messaged me on my phone and FB haha.. So I thought I'd just share this little gem I'd found some time back; unfortunately, it's cut off quite abruptly, but it's certainly pleasant eye candy nonetheless.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="380" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/uHG0spPYGIs?rel=0" width="500"></iframe><br /></div>
<br />
And just before I go -- remember poor little <a href="http://bikbikroro.blogspot.sg/2014/04/just-little-update.html" target="_blank">Rila</a> who was just stuck at her face? Well, my chips arrived and I finally put her all together. Here she is!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tpWaB9KZQ2k/U3b7TRpMLjI/AAAAAAAAEI0/s5O0Xa0moAM/s1600/ri24+%2528427x640%2529.jpg" /></div>
<br />
I renamed her Ryuko when everyone agreed that Rila was too soft a name for someone like her, and streaked and dyed her hair a funky, vibrant purple. I love her punky, edgy attitude -- I'm certain she's listening to 80's rock here!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFK-ZApdtSwh0F-8ktQI1NznSqnwnd_nq9YIyxwZtVIcpvYL5Xzt3lo0EBlh1nzCPqu4aDrnXbYfjlqpbL89kGSS10h3A9LjjvHXowin8MJWMG0W_vTFPPKnHG3SLvJeYW8wQAQlwyaRTJ/s1600/ri28+%2528505x337%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I think she's softie at heart though, and she's looking for her forever home now. How can you say no to this face?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf0Wt8NKX2SwmvcxXE497Q_y-baxwGFCVuzrm_yITTJwij_Tnb5Hx0-eRVyOD3LSRPZd6ScxJaM4l9o2fzvF3wXm24djg-CnOsjr07jLmwfdNGKcTm2hu5gVVEZL_frWBJADUSuBabQaUs/s1600/ri19+%2528505x337%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Have a blessed, restful weekend everyone! See you again soon!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
BIKBIK AND ROROhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688260142838394342noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7612138137531680575.post-9722663200178518072014-05-15T09:59:00.000-04:002014-05-15T22:36:41.075-04:00go ahead and say it<div style="text-align: left;">
Just taking a break from the black-and-white hotties to go on this little trip down memory lane -- remember A-ha? Well, if you were like me, a teenager in the mid-1980s, you might recall marvelling at the artistic wizardry of their <i>Take On Me</i> video, or swooning over the perfection that was Morten Harket, A-ha's lead singer. Harket was known for his vocal range, which apparently spans five octaves; out of curiosity, I looked him up and found this very recent video -- I think he was about 54 at the time, and wow -- his voice still has what someone once described almost 30 years ago as "this incredibly strong falsetto and almost choir-boyish clarity".</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/eSssA1xkX1U?rel=0" width="500"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Fwooar".</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Busy with mid-terms at present, but back with a fairly decent update soon. Have a lovely weekend everyone!</span></i></div>
BIKBIK AND ROROhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688260142838394342noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7612138137531680575.post-79152981400909905932014-05-10T01:30:00.000-04:002014-05-10T01:30:04.552-04:00just because...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXEz9KQHDQ8krR0MnIYUx6ckOZmeD9uiV8zjqCATtOKG80lLH6XIXxUGl1StTROlTKRbSf4ghKvaIkHGPoItZmEHDAirTbcDEt5SWMOPcA0FyDrOo24WtrRGaZqkNq1epMA8A_ZF01caOP/s1600/sco66+%2528427x640%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
... you know I need a picture of Scout in a dinosaur suit before she goes to her new mommy!</div>
BIKBIK AND ROROhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688260142838394342noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7612138137531680575.post-4730504485332548512014-04-20T09:30:00.001-04:002014-04-20T09:30:36.325-04:00just a little updateHi everyone! How have you been? I trust you are all doing super and enjoying a lovely, blessed Easter season. We certainly have, praise the Lord, though today I got a little tantrum-y with the new girl I'm working on. The eye mech cracked and had to be replaced, then the chips I'd painted were too big to fit, yada yada yada ya. So now while I wait for new blank chips to arrive, my poor little Rila is just stuck like this, twiddling her invisible thumbs.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8qgqLGVDp4c/U1OrWBr_LqI/AAAAAAAAEGs/Efiwlbh6oVY/s1600/IMG_0212+%2528505x337%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
In the meantime, I've been intrigued by the comings and goings of erstwhile bloggy "friends". Of course I haven't been blogging at all regularly, but those of you who have become close know the reason why, and I truly thank you for your continued presence, friendship and support. I actually do know who disappears from my bloggy list -- having a memory for wordy things like that -- and, having not significantly changed the nature of my posts, I can only conclude they either got tired of my irregular posts, or my irregular visits to theirs, or both. So again, I truly do thank you for your faithfulness, patience and support.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgulciFTstS-NXrCC2b5HdgP06ris54gs6YJJoJEBIXz6N4w79UDtQlUyJnleADhKZIdbzvnWZr_t_YuI06VJ03Ebfr65TM8Hakl5YmqBZtfU3GdgOFUboxL-41waTeewdco5N_B7MF1w27/s1600/ro4+%2528505x337%2529.jpg" /></div>
But on to more cheerful things (i.e. a trip to Dollyland)! Here are a couple of recent little girls I was working on. This is Rowan, and I think it's obvious why haha (well, in case it isn't, Rowan means "little red one" in Gaelic).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_5H6l7bgqW4/U1OrmhjFlFI/AAAAAAAAEG4/QWpC-dWCUJ4/s1600/ro14+-+blog.jpg" /></div>
I really love redheads, and felt inspired to do her faceup as flushed and ruddy as possible. As with real-life redheads, I love how the flaming hair complements light-coloured eyes. That's two layers of eyelashes per eye there, by the way -- lush!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ZoLTslN2IuIgSvt1Q4Jphdjidjjqpfguq-JMq_AbvfvisZ4pg04rrDz-WGcQqcy1itLPm4YtCRB9N4G2EoFEEH8VGFOp7eolbjNIsmrvawxA8b7cF4hfxZCTsHTKb5Ejk5l52La4q4FY/s1600/ro7+%2528427x640%2529.jpg" /></div>
I actually treated Rowan's blonde hair to become the flaming red it is now, and there's a lot of it too -- it's right down to her feet! Rowan has already been adopted -- thank you so much new mommy!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x2kESzDGias/U1OrQ1A_igI/AAAAAAAAEGk/Cgmmloa4cDg/s1600/sco40+-+blog.jpg" /></div>
And this is Scout! She actually had fairly long hair, but I felt a short bob would suit her cute little face better, so I cut it. Here she is with Flossey the cat.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2N4Xt_3QswDy3hfEXr2LYRfGN4dCf7skwjS6Ek2xhxb1V3tRA0sVSmX3S8a9PcNk0d7j8jgYFR9Emye5tL7__d5BDsqMtmsoCNrpVynomZsXHorWT4SJlrtyiyqCQ_DVAjZCMwVJhG96g/s1600/sco43+-+blog.jpg" /></div>
The super fun thing about Blythes, or dolls in general, of course, is dressing them up. There are so many amazing, talented Blythe clothes and accessories designers from all over the world. Here's Scout showing her handpainted left-facing eyes, and wearing a linen dress by one of my favourite Japanese designers.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y_Q0f7fDkOo/U1OrFKfr3AI/AAAAAAAAEGY/BqNtVp2Hlw4/s1600/sco47a+-+blog.jpg" /></div>
And here she is wearing her kitty helmet and a wool dress by a designer from Spain -- it's completely hand-knitted, wow! I actually find Scout really adorable, but the poor little thing has been waiting in the shop for over a week now -- I guess her mommy has yet to find her. Whenever I take her out for photos though, I find myself really taken with her -- I just might, maybe, possibly, actually keep her!!<br />
<br />
Have a wonderful new week everyone! See you again soon!<br />
<br />BIKBIK AND ROROhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688260142838394342noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7612138137531680575.post-19545487991700184572014-04-09T04:40:00.001-04:002014-04-09T08:22:06.562-04:00when to laugh<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DSEajZEn25Y/U0UApZQow4I/AAAAAAAAEFk/tj2pY8LJQI4/s1600/bizarro-eat-fruit-and-multiply+%25281%2529.jpg" /></div>
<br />
I don't know much about Ricky Gervais beyond whatever I've seen of him on Graham Norton. There, he's funny, but not excessively provocative, and so I'd shrug and laugh along. But then some friends ("friends") on Facebook posted some FB posts of his, and they were funny too, so I popped over to his page to have a look.<br />
<br />
I was scrolling happily along and chuckling to myself, when I came upon a post showing a picture of some men in front of a huge painting of Christ on the cross. I won't go into too much detail (lest I be guilty of sharing the joke!), but suffice to say that the caption at the bottom read, "Blasphemy -- A ticket to hell has never been funnier".<br />
<br />
And you want to know the truth? I giggled. In fact, I think I did one of those snorting sort of laughs. I mean, it really was quite funny. And looking at it again now, I'm laughing again. But the thing is, I'm really bothered by the fact that I'm finding it funny. Well, I think I know <i>why </i>I find it funny -- I'm tickled by the fact that those men could actually think of such a thing, and actually pose like that, and then put it all together like a motivational poster.<br />
<br />
But whether I <i>should </i>find it funny -- there's the rub. I mean, it's clearly sacrilegious -- that was <i>Jesus</i>, the son of <i>God</i>, dying on the cross. But the three fellows were being so shamelessly inane! I felt so troubled by my amusement that I actually prayed about it, and I did feel God reassuring me that I was not doomed for being unable to help my sense of humour. The Christian life is meant to be joyful, not dull and humourless.<br />
<br />
At the same time, however, I did feel Him cautioning me against indulging too much in that sort of thing -- there is a fine line between good humour, and irreverence and mockery. Something that gets laughed at often enough gradually loses its value, its importance, its dignity -- one easily becomes flippant and disrespectful.<br />
<br />
It's like the blonde jokes, you know? I don't like them. Some of them aren't <i>too </i>bad, but some really are, perpetuating terrible, belittling stereotypes which do great injustice to blondes everywhere, including millions of little blonde girls who will have to grow up under such an insulting stigma. So I try not to encourage such jokes, by listening to them, sharing them, or laughing with others.<br />
<br />
I decided to see what other, wiser heads than mine had to say on the subject. I didn't know how to look such a thing up, and in the end Googled, "Is sacrilegious humour a sin?" Oddly enough, there wasn't much on the topic. I did find <a href="http://www.clutchmagonline.com/2012/08/church-humor-self-aware-or-sacrilegious/" target="_blank">this</a> (which, yes, made me chuckle), but it didn't strike me as being really downright SACRILEGIOUS. I did find a couple of the comments below it relevant though, such as this one by Fatima: "I don't think there is anything wrong with this. It is okay to laugh. God is not being mocked. It's people that are being mocked. and It's FUNNY!!! Lighten up guys lol".<br />
<br />
That's the key I guess -- how <i>mocking </i>is the joke? Whether about blondes or almighty God, how scornful or contemptuous is it making me when I laugh? As Paul writes to the Galatians: "Do not be deceived and deluded and misled; God will not allow Himself to be sneered at (scorned, disdained, or mocked by mere pretensions or professions, or by His precepts being set aside.) [He inevitably deludes himself who attempts to delude God]".<br />
<br />
While on the topic, I decided to find out exactly what Ricky Gervais' stand on religion is. And <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2077757/Ricky-Gervais-Twitter-spat-Christians-saying-doesnt-believe-God.html" target="_blank">this</a> was the first thing I came upon. Now, this isn't a post about atheism, or bigotry, or fundamentalist anything, but I do object strongly to anyone mocking Christ publicly, on the cover of a magazine, knowing perfectly well that their celebrity would make it widely circulated. People don't need to see this sort of jeering and insult, our young people especially, who are trying to grow and find their way in an increasingly profane, immoral world.<br />
<br />
Don't get me wrong -- I don't object to a person's atheism, but I do question the wisdom of treating godly or moral values with scorn; however idiotically the human followers of a particular religion behave, the principles to which they theoretically hold should be universally upheld -- principles such as love, peace, patience, kindness, self-control and so forth.<br />
<br />
For Christians, the cross in part represents the theoretical upholding of such values, values which surely are in dire shortage in this fallen world of ours. Why mock or denigrate it? Make fun of some of its followers, maybe; sneer at them even if you must, but steer clear of what is inherently good, pure and holy. I believe this applies to all religions. Certainly, <i>human </i>failings might be deprecated and disaparaged, but not the ethics or credo which makes those humans strive to reach higher and overcome those failings.<br />
<br />
So, I think giggling at my mom's comic on the fridge is okaaay (Moses is leading the Israelites through the Red Sea and rolling his eyes because they're saying things like, "Are we there yet?" and "I should have used the bathroom before we left"), but laughing at three immature fellows having fun with the crucifixion -- not so ok. (Also not ok -- What do you call an intelligent blonde? ...).<br />
<br />
Trust you're all having a happy, lighthearted week!<br />
<br />BIKBIK AND ROROhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688260142838394342noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7612138137531680575.post-13847720621788906752014-03-30T00:19:00.000-04:002014-03-30T00:20:29.622-04:00just a little update :)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYQ4t9GOKUDs9dGCiUniNgx306XaRcfZH1KBkS96x-0C4AQYUQYCarVRRWyR5Fio_yPOpCAi7DbV0zkQ2PB1hFQcL4MfGgyr4r6oZ3_46PjU7Du5-Tp1z2uoxQ1-oqi6azKU0y6g0wdoin/s1600/mi49+blog+%2528508x339%2529.jpg" /></div>
Hi everybody! Just a quick little dolly post today. This is my new little girl, Miette! My last girl was quite serious and melancholy, so for Miette, I gave her a bit of a smile.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSxzM6rJYNDRaJbPqWwJ_nmAIX7wmzRUzxSEIoTMKiCHl9r8qCAxZG9F0Cec3ANg9_AftrODA8an1htPQr5PwBuGZVL2dc3MC5QYuH1bbNUxw3QWwECWuzxgbPvN43wJUvOl8CEmxl7Sr6/s1600/mi35+blog+%2528508x339%2529.jpg" /></div>
The kids helped me decide on her name. They felt she had a kittenish quality to her. Here you can see Miette's lovely side eye chips. Eye chips are a huge deal for Blythes -- when your eyes are that big, they are rather a central feature haha.. put in the wrong ones, and she can look quite deranged!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--Qw0LbdyXYY/UzeSJQQhsAI/AAAAAAAAEEQ/ag-syQaBI8Q/s1600/mi4+blog+%2528508x339%2529.jpg" /></div>
This is Miette in her original Sherlock Holmes outfit. She was originally a Blythe <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Blythe-Neo-Lorshek-Molseh/dp/B00H3VNO2A" target="_blank">Lorshek Molseh</a> -- get the anagram lol! Miette is up for adoption in the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/UmamiBaby" target="_blank">shop</a> now :)<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtjeFdMsHoowjW1L_DUw-WKevPhLxNkxaJt1CT4wK711ioi0DDTOSnwSQKRDmmSjvtlzDuY-TchJBjDz5Xw3w6-nDTD-2hWJTd12qrO_u9ce6blzxfWEsnrSow0HPT-1gtaOMqAxTXp93I/s1600/mar35+BLOG%2528508x339%2529.jpg" /></div>
And here's a quick look at Marine, the little girl before Miette. Marine sort of looks like she's thinking about all the world's problems, don't you think?<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z2sjU5kdbLQ/UzeTAHsad2I/AAAAAAAAEEw/QAxHi0RXZm8/s1600/mar38+BLOG+%2528508x339%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
She does have wonderful hair. I streaked it with highlights and dip-dyed it green.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUVm8tyy9KgeDMGDVmbcKFPjnigXzVYKMKvE2kxHWu8EgeKExo8ikgIGrEG0YcLCYHLiynQ5lkQ8e06IghAOldHBfO0MCrtFBoqQN6WegPuF_Jmei8es2eggarrGLEwUMtQVsHGomtUQrx/s1600/mar42+BLOG%2528508x339%2529.jpg" /></div>
I love her edgy street style. She looks very New Yorky I think. Marine has already been adopted and is on her way to her new mom -- yay! <br />
<br />
I'll be posting some thoughts on body shape issues next I think, when I've a free moment. In the meantime, have a restful weekend and a lovely, blessed week, my friends. Thank you so much again to all of you who pop by -- it means a lot to me :)<br />
<br />BIKBIK AND ROROhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688260142838394342noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7612138137531680575.post-17839835308341689522014-03-23T01:14:00.000-04:002014-03-23T01:20:14.194-04:00go ahead and say itNow in case you think I've forgotten about my little swoony <a href="http://bikbikroro.blogspot.sg/2013/11/go-ahead-and-say-it.html" target="_blank">trip down memory lane</a>, I haven't! It's a bit hard to when you watch vintage Alfred Hitchcock every night lol!<br />
<br />
So, next on my list, an unexpected charmer, and someone you might not even have heard of -- George Grizzard. George was in fact a brilliant, prolific actor, appearing in numerous films, TV shows and Broadway plays; in some ways he reminds me of Ewan McGregor.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG6XVn_aK7bdrKrzD2NzQSuPl6fRMfjypRr7TbaUfPvJm4THvOPKZ95O4XPBM1isXomsaGWMHMdppbB89yCu1v2EQxlQpjckYqAJ0Wo_nDtpDnjxNIwJ7zz9oQly4Hq55jfZEqtC5_T0MU/s1600/gg.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Cute, but this isn't his best look is it".</div>
<br />
Not being, I suppose, typically gorgeous, his pictures aren't readily found online; this was the best I could do, and it certainly doesn't capture his suave coolness. So, to make up for it, I thought I'd share this entertaining episode of <i>Alfred Hitchcock Presents</i> from 1962, featuring Grizzard and the wonderful Dennis King -- a quick half hour of fun for a peaceful Sunday afternoon.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="386" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/84gOfhCm8L4?rel=0" width="506"></iframe><br />
<br />
Have a lovely rest of the weekend everyone!<br />
<br /></div>
BIKBIK AND ROROhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688260142838394342noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7612138137531680575.post-61658981901653885922014-03-18T09:25:00.000-04:002014-03-18T10:50:32.001-04:00on deception, and mercy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixTBrVntX9yPcK0MDMbBHf7Zq8YQHvmtW9Y15XguZgdoeGAqeDp-yH9xwAZrkhcrMfzxVT1DxKBub-paHF4zcutiebFhDofdztE0CNHujqTNzea6fkCjKxm_EiS8x-QOarngMhiVBxAIQP/s1600/j+kip4+%2528507x380%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKfsOqNWjWMgyWM3D5fjrKY1RYGUlCwY7JOKwCf3phaXux2EsAM2lRcG30ydMlFbPpq7i2yNjnaZ5_6yKrOOXjJfZQWEWrhXQYGLMFq1b8m0s6X4Is0kE8ZNv-xAf4JMQAX3skSKQECnAn/s1600/j+kip3+%2528507x380%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0knR7MdeAFY/UyhHCyiIwrI/AAAAAAAAEC8/AiL9iWChDco/s1600/j+kip2+%2528507x380%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Random Jake pictures because I didn't have anything more suitable.</span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Hi everyone! How have you been? I know it's been awhile, and I truly thank everyone who is still faithfully sticking with me! I was just telling a good bloggy friend the other day that I had a nagging consciousness that I hadn't posted for some time, but that I'd have to wait till Jake is at least a year old before I got back to writing regularly again. And she said, "Don't be stressed out about blogging. Family is far more important!" How true!<br />
<br />
Still, sometimes there are things I really want to share or talk about, and so I do it in bits till a post finally comes together haha.. Like <i>this</i>. It has bothered me enough to want to get it off my chest and hear your thoughts on it as well.<br />
<br />
Some nights back I was at my cousin's place; the kids were all playing together when my aunt came in asking who had throw a can of pop into the wastepaper basket in the study. Now obviously she meant someone in my cousin's household, and most likely, one of my cousin's kids, who apparently had done the deed a couple of days prior. Because the wastebasket is in the study, it's clearly not meant for edibles, and a trail of ants had appeared there.<br />
<br />
Well, everyone automatically started saying it wasn't them, and so my cousin's wife narrowed it down by saying she had given the pop to Marine, one of their daughters. So of course the family started accusing her, saying it was so typical of her, etc etc.<br />
<br />
The thing is, Marine kept insisting she hadn't done it; on being pressed further, she said she only remembered leaving it on my aunt's table (which is also typical) (and would also have created a trail of ants). Well obviously, now the whole thing started shifting from the thoughtlessness of throwing foody crap in the study, to whether Marine was actually lying.<br />
<br />
Finally, my cousin's wife took Marine aside to where we were sitting, and sternly asked her point blank whether she was telling the truth. Again and again, Marine insisted she was -- this was when it came up that she remembered just leaving it on her grandmother's table. One last time, my cousin's wife asked Marine to promise her -- before God -- that she was telling the truth. Having helped take care of the kids for many years, I knew this was the ultimate; usually if the kids really were fibbing, they would admit it at this point, if not earlier.<br />
<br />
Marine was already crying by this time (she is nine, by the way), but declared again that she was telling the truth -- she only remembered leaving it on my aunt's table (for which thoughtlessness she did apologise). She said she had drunk some pop in the study, then drifted over to her own room to offer her brother some, then drifted back to the study, where she left the pop. Knowing Marine as well as I do, I felt sure she was telling the truth -- as in, she honestly believed she'd left the can on the table, and did not remember chucking it in the basket.<br />
<br />
Well, my cousin's wife was quite prepared to leave it at that, saying either she or someone else, possibly my cousin or even my aunt, had absentmindedly done it. But, perhaps because he'd been somehow vaguely brought into it, my cousin took Marine to the next room and for the next 20, 25 minutes at least, subjected her to a barrage of interrogative questions, in his most blustering tone, from where exactly on the table did she leave the can, to how long she had waited for her brother to drink from it.<br />
<br />
At the start of this interrogation, I could hear Marine stoutly sticking to her story, but as it went on, I could hear her tearing up, and getting increasingly confused, stressed and worn out. She <i>couldn't </i>remember <i>exactly </i>on <i>which </i>corner of the table she'd left the can, or how long she'd waited for her brother, or what exactly she'd drifted off to do next after she'd left the can. Well, surprise -- this was like two <i>days </i>ago.<br />
<br />
I felt so bad for her, but then I got really upset when I heard him telling her that she was a liar -- he <i>knew </i>her, and he <i>knew </i>she was lying -- she could fool us, but not him. After Marine left us (crying), I told him frankly that I was very dismayed with how he had handled the whole situation -- that no good could come from bullying and intimidating a child like that, and more than that, believing the worst of the child and accusing her without concrete proof.<br />
<br />
Well, needless to say, he got all riled up and defensive, and started blustering at me about how he could just see it in her eyes -- he <i>knew</i>. All the circumstantial evidence pointed to her being the guilty person, he said. He went on and on about how she couldn't remember the facts clearly, like where <i>exactly </i>on the table she'd left the can. He reasoned that that showed she was making it up -- how could she possibly remember leaving the can there, and not be able to remember the specifics. She was just coming up with that story to explain what she'd done with it.<br />
<br />
I said it was perfectly possible to do that, especially absentmindedly -- I myself continually think I've left crafting stuff somewhere on the dining table for instance, but find later that they're not there, and I'd actually left them somewhere else altogether. When one is distracted, or has a million ideas preoccupying one, one can easily do things like that.<br />
<br />
My point was that it was possible that she sincerely did not remember throwing the can in the basket; that as far as she <i>could </i>remember at all, she had just left it on the table. Did that mean she wasn't the one who threw in the basket? No, of course not -- but it did mean that she wasn't <i>lying </i>about it, which was the main thing right? A lie, after all, is "a false statement made with <i>deliberate </i>intent to deceive; an <i>intentional </i>untruth".<br />
<br />
I felt it was wrong to accuse her based on circumstantial evidence and a "gut feeling"; if there was any chance at all of her <i>not </i>lying, I felt we should believe the best of her and just take her at her word. I believe browbeating her in some cop-movie attempt to trip her up and catch her in her guilt is just futile and damaging -- trust me, I know the long-term effects of unmerciful harshness and negative labels. Harsh parenting is connected to low self-esteem in children, and is one of the surefire ways to, over time, cause serious rifts and even total alienation. "Do not provoke or irritate or fret your children [do not be hard on them or harass them]" it says in Colossians, "lest they become discouraged and sullen and morose and feel inferior and frustrated. [Do not break their spirit]".<br />
<br />
Well, the next thing I knew, we were getting into some stupid debate about criminal culpability -- he actually brought up how a person with dementia who murders someone is still a murderer, even if they honestly don't remember doing it. I couldn't quite follow this parallel at all, and could only say, yes, the person <i>is</i> a murderer, but one can't actually say they <i>lied </i>about not remembering.<br />
<br />
In sum, several relational and parenting rules became reinforced in my mind. 1) Always be compassionate, and believe the best of people; 2) Avoid negative assumptions and labels; 3) Don't abuse your position of power; 4) Be firm, but kind; 5) Don't yell; and 6) Temper justice with mercy.<br />
<br />
I also read up on dealing with kids when they lie -- because all our little angels will do it, at one point or another; heck, all of us do. I found these points in a great article by Dr Victoria Samuel, a clinical psychologist who works within a specialist child team in the UK's NHS:<br />
<br />
1. Calmly name the issue but don’t demand confessions<br />
Don't ask questions about behaviour if you already know the answer! Trying to force your child to confess is rarely effective: most children (and adults) will lie to protect themselves when put on the spot...<br />
<br />
If you know your child is lying to avoid getting into trouble calmly describe the problem: "I see you got pen on the wall, how can we sort that out?" If possible, avoid lecturing or criticising your child as this tends to be counter-productive, leading to defensiveness and more lying...<br />
<br />
<i>Never call your child a liar; negative labels such as this can erode self-esteem and lead to self-confirming behaviour</i>. Similarly, it is not helpful to bring up past transgressions "This is the third time you’ve lied about this".<br />
<br />
If you catch your child telling a blatant lie, tell them you know they're not being honest: "I know that isn't true. It's normal to worry about telling the truth if we're afraid we've done something wrong, but lying isn't helpful. Let's see what we can do solve the problem".<br />
<br />
2. Try to understand why your child is finding it hard to be honest<br />
It's important to think about why your child feels she needs to lie. Perhaps your child lies about the marks she get at school because she is feeling overly pressurised to achieve. Or if your child repeatedly lies about their actions to avoid discipline, perhaps the consequences you are using are so severe that your child is too afraid to tell the truth. <i>Remember that consequences are about teaching a child, not inflicting distress</i>.<br />
<br />
3. Teach your child about why lying doesn't work<br />
Teach your child about the importance of telling the truth and how lying can stop people believing them even when they are being honest. A good way to do this is to read books with your child which give a clear message that lying is not helpful; 'The Boy who Cried Wolf' is an obvious example. It helps to take time after reading the stories to chat with your child about what he has learnt. Remember this should be relaxed and fun, not a morality lecture!<br />
<br />
4. Respond with clear consequences<br />
By around the age of six, children are able to know the difference between truth and lies. So if they lie to try to cover up something they've done, it may be helpful to give consequences, both for the lying and for the behaviour they are attempting to conceal. Make it clear to your child that honesty will get your approval and mean they get off more lightly.<br />
<br />
This approach means that if your child does something wrong they're less likely to take the risk of covering up with a lie. Again, <i>remember that consequences should not be overly severe as this may push your child to lie to protect themselves</i>.<br />
<br />
5. Set a good example<br />
Remember that children learn more through watching other people's behaviour than through any other form of direct guidance or discipline. Unfortunately this means that if you're prone to being economical with the truth, be it mouthing "I'm not in" when your mother-in-law rings, or by taking a few years of your child's age when buying a bus ticket, you will inadvertently be teaching your child that lying is acceptable.<br />
<br />
6. Praise honesty<br />
Always be encouraging and positive whenever your child tells the truth and praise them for being honest: "Thank you for telling me you broke the glass. I really like it when you’re honest". (<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>extracted from </i>How to deal with lying and encourage honesty<i>; italics mine. Read the article in full <a href="http://www.supernanny.co.uk/Advice/-/Parenting-Skills/-/Discipline-and-Reward/How-to-deal-with-lying-and-encourage-honesty-.aspx" target="_blank">here</a></i></span>).<br />
<br />
Have a kind, loving week, my friends -- catch up again real soon!<br />
<br />BIKBIK AND ROROhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688260142838394342noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7612138137531680575.post-54708745056120198852014-03-03T21:06:00.001-05:002014-03-04T05:17:30.940-05:00all's well that ends well<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLG0mNG4j0mILU9Kc9A7EKtuGCIa0T3XZsb3PXHm5Jd8cdcvhHRsm_BzFqH8y6RESpvrY_DnOzDSfXJFkRWXFhYTb8fLLGHWuQTpU0bQJQsMnM49QicYP9NzQy3DANUnHRI0wOZdoSV3U0/s1600/cat3+%2528507x338%2529.jpg" /></div>
Remember that little <a href="http://bikbikroro.blogspot.sg/2014/02/on-re-appointments-and-pressing-on.html" target="_blank">upset</a> with Ophelia? "When we get disappointed, then immediately get re-appointed... We're letting go of the causes for the disappointment and pressing toward what God has for us. We get a new vision, a plan, an idea, a fresh outlook, a new mindset, and we change our focus to that".<br />
<br />
In a classic case of God knowing best, taking care of the situation, and always working things out for my good, the sweetest lady came along a couple of days later and adopted Ophelia -- right off, <i>without </i>layaway. Yay! Thank you so much God! Thank you so much new mommy! Thank you so much everyone for your kind words and encouragement!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oUQJtTDt0yo/UxUt9PtB3DI/AAAAAAAAEA0/fmoACMAapfE/s1600/pack5+%2528507x338%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So, Ophelia got lots of good bear advice before packing up. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Obb0V_X7bR4/UxUw6-jAYBI/AAAAAAAAEBA/Yx7eizqSJfo/s1600/pack1+%2528507x338%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Such as, always have a doughnut handy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXKrJZ-Qd8gkQbPq9vdlPOUuukbNe8_Wumgke8W7E-Fz1nF0OVYhlpwxjQQXlfGCengicG5gjD85eyBkpbEb9rU4PDh2335nqH0sf0v703IVLdXD2DwuRsGKHIWYjFjxfi2TQZjeTVbmhi/s1600/pack6+%2528507x338%2529.jpg" /></div>
Here's Ophelia with her new pulls. The pulls control the eye mechanism and also allow for sleep eyes, which Blythes in their original condition don't have. New pulls are always fun because you get to play with all sorts of beads and trinkets.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QyA3WNGhuU4/UxUt07EUbsI/AAAAAAAAEAc/qhIHQYoSFys/s1600/epo28+%2528507x338%2529.jpg" /></div>
Now that Ophelia is happily on her way to her new home, let me share with you my new little girl, Eponine (I actually reeeeeeally wanted to call her Scampi, but everyone said "No").<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi35xSuTRdTxSYb3MbM89MreA59MV2LzXRvCaWWalmizYJSX-8CxQorIZ5JgEJnYH6cuUnFlroYxLnI_KJlrM7XqbMICv1lWp-QKDgu_leDXAoQJ_KfKmspsprMO41jTWTQ2ShKzkqYzqjN/s1600/epo15+%2528507x338%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I cut and curled Eponine's hair and love how unruly it looks. It makes her look a bit of a minx I think.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwuVooqLXLumLointf1kQeMxuZ7peqiBquO-s5j-_dChgP8cbffp_8WDTT5dlmmcHHzxAy9ocP9jHxIuuK-TbFBjCIWehMkTuN2Y6hwr3doXJL-ugCMqrrQ1vWcAYTBIra1d2hUv-pjXS_/s1600/epo22+%2528507x338%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A good friend of mine said she looked like a little starlet straight out of the 50s. That was really sweet praise :)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3B45RYqNWjhlt0GoIko7m6vTHFZesEGkurbcU5E1HP9-yuP9NK7ZKWFupdStUN5p9LsX_Fafhz6vEATpybi9kjXPQKKUnW4LELFLeqrO1ZNAfGiW2N8fLyIWov52PPVQ8ZjwcGpPOGxEI/s1600/epo10+%2528507x338%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The inevitable hood. Eponine is up for <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/181319249/eponine-ooak-custom-blythe-doll" target="_blank">adoptio</a>n now :)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Have a super lovely week everyone!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
BIKBIK AND ROROhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688260142838394342noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7612138137531680575.post-14720904673252700472014-03-01T07:37:00.000-05:002014-03-01T08:25:24.348-05:00on envy, and contentment<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4QEheKxqQzEeN4dldC_c4f5__EycWt5awFg8t1wIQ3O0VvQ2LCNTbVqud1kLZcMfyoAjjoqBegcjLWTbFU7Sxfs4Ws07ZNrOkrOTQF8mjPJSDZLG0REaUwTgjPaOm-aKRsOyochawL8PS/s1600/sadie35+%25281280x853%2529+%2528507x372%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Sadie takes Orso just the way he is.</span></i></div>
<br />
I was sitting with my aunt's church group the other day and talk turned to a certain church member, Lauren, whose life was apparently perfect. It seems she has four grown daughters, all of whom have successful, well-paying careers, and more than that, they all "married well"; i.e., they married husbands who also have successful, well-paying careers. Lauren herself is a well-off retiree and so the upshot of it is that she and her husband are leading very comfortable lives, regularly posting pictures on Facebook of the family on holiday, eating at expensive restaurants, and wearing expensive things.<br />
<br />
"Wow, great huh?" my aunt said. "Lauren and her husband don't have to worry about anything; her daughters are doing so well". There was a chorus of agreement. And then, she added what was clearly in everyone else's mind: "You can't help but envy<br />
them".<br />
<br />
I was silent the entire time, but at that, I felt I simply had to speak up. It wasn't just that I'd heard that kind of senseless dross before, but I felt so bad for my cousin (my aunt's daughter), who was also there, and flashed me a stricken, exasperated look. Because obviously, if you envy someone else's life, you're clearly dissatisfied with your own; and if you think someone's else's children are successful and have married well, you clearly think your own aren't, and haven't.<br />
<br />
"Why do you say these things?" I said. "Success isn't defined by wealth. And you don't know what their private lives are like, or what's going to happen to any of them in the future. Why can't you just be happy with what you have?" Now my cousin isn't a highfalutin career woman, but a full-time mom with two wonderfully decent teenage sons. But heck, when was the last time you heard someone going, "Gee, she's a full-time stay-at-home <a href="http://bikbikroro.blogspot.sg/2011/11/on-working-as-mom.html" target="_blank">mom</a> raising kids -- you can't help but envy her"?<br />
<br />
Needless to say, the conversation swiftly went off on a pointless tangent, with my aunt going, "I didn't say Constance didn't marry well" and me going, "But you just said you envied Lauren's daughters' marrying well", and my aunt retorting, "Well, they did -- they're doing great; they lead such comfortable lives", and me replying, "Which means you don't think <i>you're </i>doing great!"<br />
<br />
Of course, I don't think my aunt had really given much thought to what she was saying. And many of us are guilty of much the same thing, looking longingly at someone else's whatever, and at the very least thinking, "If only...". But these feelings of discontentment often have insidious effects, and only keep growing if left unchecked.<br />
<br />
Ever since I was a kid, I've been witness to this sort of thing -- people envying other people; parents envying other parents; moms comparing their daughters and making their kids feel bad about themselves. Never mind that my aunt is actually living quite comfortably, has several gorgeous grandchildren, and a daughter who's happily married (which in this day and age of divorce and rampant philandering, is an achievement in and of itself). The fact that she's not raking in big bucks and coupled with a millionaire husband somehow seems to make her life, at best, lacklustre, and at worst, a failure.<br />
<br />
As a stay-at-home mom who's not raking in big bucks myself, I can imagine what my cousin is feeling. But while my aunt -- contented-Christian-who-ought-not-to-covet though she is -- is not entirely happy with her lot, I hope my cousin has not let it affect her. For surely being made to feel a failure, or like you've fallen short, is one of the worse things to go through life with. I hope she knows that being a fulltime mom makes her just as valuable, and as much a success, as Mrs Lawyer or Mrs Director at the office.<br />
<br />
"Thou shalt not covet" is one of the ten commandments -- clearly, envy has been a problem since time immemorial. In fact, the commandment in full reads thus: "You shall not covet your neighbour's house. You shall not covet your neighbour's wife, or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbour". God was obviously trying to cover all the bases -- knowing people, He had to! Today, it could just as soon read, "You shall not covet your neighbour's car, your neighbour's job, your neighbour's straight-A kid -- indeed, your neighbour's <i>life</i>".<br />
<br />
I think God knew that envy and covetousness would not only breed misery in one's own life, but in the lives of those one is close to as well. Nowhere does envy cause more grief I think than in one's own family, among one's own children. Almost every child starts off with an innate desire to be pleasing to his or her parents, to make his or her parents proud. But of course every child is gifted differently, and unfortunately, not always to his or her parents' tastes. Dissatisfied, discontented parents quickly make their children feel inadequate and unacceptable, and is simply a recipe for disaster. "Anger is cruel and fury overwhelming, but who can stand before jealousy?" it says in Proverbs.<br />
<br />
The perfect scenario of course is where parents, already confident in themselves, transfer that confidence to their children. These are the parents who are supportive, who celebrate their children's unique strengths and abilities, and truly love who they naturally are -- whatever stage of life they're at. Expressing envious dissatisfaction -- whether to an eight-year-old or a forty-eight-year-old -- only wounds and tears down, and does no one any good. "Never underestimate the power of jealousy and the power of envy to destroy. Never underestimate that" Oliver Stone (of all people) once said.<br />
<br />
The key I think is to simply stop comparing oneself to other people! And to start focusing on, and truly appreciating, all the blessings and positive things in one's own life. I strive to be very careful of my words around my own kids, steering clear of such phrases as "If only you..." or "Why can't you be more like...". I am so conscious of the fact that enviously comparing -- whether children, or belongings, or entire lives -- essentially implies that I wish my own were different. I think going through life like that only leads to despair.<br />
<br />
Which reminds me of a devotion I read not too long ago. It was entitled <i>Start enjoying you</i>. "...Scripture says that we have the mind of Christ. We can think. speak and learn to behave as Jesus did, and He certainly did not ever compare Himself with anyone or desire to be anything other than what His Father had made Him to be. He lived to do the Father's will, not to compete with others and compare Himself with them.<br />
<br />
"I encourage you to be content with who you are. That does not mean that you cannot make progress and continually improve, but when you allow other people to become a law, you are continually disappointed. God will never help you be someone else. Remember that being "different" is good; it is not a bad thing. Celebrate your uniqueness and rejoice in the future God has planned for you. Be confident and start enjoying you!" (<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>extracted from </i>The Confident Woman Devotional<i>, by Joyce Meyer</i></span>).<br />
<br />
Here's to celebrating our own unique selves, lives and successes! Have a blessed, contented weekend everyone!<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span> <span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>P.S. Ophelia found her mommy -- </i>without <i>layaway! More about that soon :)</i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><br /></i></span>BIKBIK AND ROROhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688260142838394342noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7612138137531680575.post-27163451362783269952014-02-26T07:43:00.001-05:002014-03-04T05:29:43.238-05:00on re-appointments and pressing on<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fDQjj587Rb0/Uw3a9WsGDOI/AAAAAAAAD-w/B-9rkUVaC-o/s1600/oph27+%2528507x338%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Well, I didn't expect to be posting again so soon, but well, this was on my mind. Remember how I'd mentioned in my last post that a lady had requested that I reserve Ophelia for her? Well, she not only wanted me to reserve her, but also to do layaway. Layaway -- or payments by installments -- is common in the world of art dolls (or maybe expensive things in general); artists who accept it generally expect an initial immediate deposit and the rest of the payments within a reasonable period of time, usually a month or so.<br />
<br />
Well, I put a "reserved" sign on Ophelia's listing, and then waited to hear back from the lady about her deposit and payment plan. Most collectors know that an immediate deposit is expected -- after all, how can something be taken off the market and put aside for one without any assurance of payment? However, this lady did not get back to me till a whole day later, and then it was to say that she wanted layaway for two months instead of one.<br />
<br />
Now it's clearly detailed in my shop policies what layaway plan I accept -- full payment within a month, with an immediate deposit of at least $100 -- but I decided to step out in faith and agree to her two-month request -- still without receiving any deposit from her. I told her it was fine, but I needed an immediate deposit to hold the reservation. Well, another full day passed with no response from her, and I decided to write her again, politely but plainly telling her that it would really be good to settle the deposit and payment details as soon as possible.<br />
<br />
Well, almost three days from when she first asked me to reserve Ophelia for her, she finally wrote back, saying she was sorry, but some family thing had coincidentally come up right then, and she would have to back out of the reservation. And that was it. I'd put off I don't know how many other potential adopters with that "reserve" sign, and had even told another person who'd expressly inquired, that Ophelia was spoken for (yes, I contacted her again, but she said she had committed to another doll and couldn't afford Ophelia right then).<br />
<br />
I don't know, y'know? To me, asking someone to reserve something is as good as making a commitment to buy -- just because you haven't shelled out any money, it doesn't mean you can freely back out of a transaction or go back on your word. In fact I think it really unfortunate that it's money that holds many people to a promise or a deal.<br />
<br />
Ebay has a "commit to buy" button and there's a reason for that -- whether you pay for the item right away, or further down the road, you <i>are </i>expected to pay for it once you have said you would, and clicking on that button comes with all sorts of legal fine print. On Etsy however, there isn't such a button with all the legal ramifications and seller protection -- a lot of artists simply operate on plain faith and goodwill.<br />
<br />
I'm sorry of course if she really did have some huge family problem, but these exquisitely coincidental timings tend to suggest buyer panic and remorse. Well, one should always think out big-ticket purchases carefully, but beyond that, one should also consider what implications one's words and actions may have on another. Sellers whose shops are their bread-and-butter can ill afford such fooling about. This is probably why many artists have to coldly state their payment policies within the listings themselves, and include such plain statements as, "Serious buyers only please" and even "Don't buy if you're not familiar with custom Blythes!!!"<br />
<br />
In my disappointment, I spoke to a wonderful doll artist with whom I'd recently become friends. She immediately told me several horror stories of her own, saying, "I wasted my time more than I like to and it's always a disappointment when this happens. You feel cheated on. Now I hate to require a deposit because I always want to trust people... If I keep making dolls for a few more years, I might end up writing a book of sad dolly stories!"<br />
<br />
Well, when things like this happen, I always find my mind going back to that verse in the Bible that says: "Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes', and your 'No,' 'No'; anything beyond this comes from the evil one". I'd written a <a href="http://bikbikroro.blogspot.sg/2011/01/let-your-yes-be-yes.html" target="_blank">post</a> some three years back on something sort of related; in it I'd written: "It's funny/sad how people often say things they don't mean, commit to things they never intend to see through, are double-minded, unreliable...<br />
<br />
"I just wonder, <i>huh</i>? As in, WHY do people do this? Why say one thing when you mean another, why say you will when you won't... And if one can be like this in even small, simple things, how does one deal with bigger issues, matters of importance that require unshakeable integrity, commitment or trustworthiness? It strikes me as I write this however that it really doesn't matter whether something is small <i>or</i> big -- we should mean what we say <i>all </i>the time, be honourable and dependable in <i>all </i>our dealings".<br />
<br />
This morning, however, my devotional reading was: <i>Dealing with disappointment</i> (I know right??) "When things don't prosper or succeed according to our plan, the first thing we feel is disappointment. This is normal, but we must know what to do with that feeling... In Phil 3:13 the apostle Paul says, "But one thing I do [it is my one aspiration]: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead".<br />
<br />
"When we get disappointed, then immediately get re-appointed, that's exactly what we're doing. We're letting go of the causes for the disappointment and pressing toward what God has for us. We get a new vision, a plan, an idea, a fresh outlook, a new mindset, and we change our focus to that. <i>We decide to go on</i>!" (<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>extract from </i>New Day, New You<i>, by Joyce Meyer</i></span>).<br />
<br />
So I decided to practice shrug therapy -- just shake it off, believe the best of the person, and go on. So here are pictures I'd posted on my shop's FB page right after the fact (that is Absinthe Bear, good friend and counsellor to all dollies):<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5dMjFe6r1uF5EdyCgEbBaisLRxbvTYDX50REMmSJ1rld97JmKqBS79mFi6MsoWb9bReughspEM5rvdASoqWCBQMOYOudzlX6cLhA_-8iJX26Cl5vlBk6xv6u47_wrp2TA-voE_u0_3ITv/s1600/oph35+%2528507x338%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Don't cry Ophelia.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NYwcQTWHnCQ/Uwx-8L2hMcI/AAAAAAAAD9s/b9_ouBAorec/s1600/oph34+%2528507x338%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm still here.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEv9ZPu-xEiOJJWpZPmkaM2E4x4DlpiNe5O1kS0dPXjZLL-6T6v-MtNhgczq0U18DckVCY1rEgupq0lvnz1uy1sA3gfIEIObXfpuRNEPFlIMqpy0Y602fADVYRkXwAc6Tqj15R4Fr9m2He/s1600/oph37+%2528507x338%2529.jpg" /></div>
Let's write a letter. How about: "Dear everyone, a reservation to adopt is a commitment and we are stepping out in faith. It breaks our hearts when days later, you back out and leave us, when our real mommy might have come along, and then left, because we were 'reserved'".<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lh0IqmbgMis/Uwx-9REUF9I/AAAAAAAAD-A/oHCBn-_BjSU/s1600/oph39+%2528507x338%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Don't be sad. In life, we are all called to be strong.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY57amEuh1A5EcZpznm0CNwQJ0MIyefqh4EHzP6r2yTqyVNGYR1j1gTCEBP3X0AQQFMeqO-XKNj6mhVLg3SixA3oQASNU58ErVXEZ5KtBs0GR9ZhaFpXfeNzlKT5tRk9X_iKQIVJPu_lZi/s1600/oph41+%2528507x338%2529.jpg" /></div>
Keep your chin up baby.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
And today I posted:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb5R4HdFpi-1rlUV69zQzPqyI9ykA8DDVEzjvcjzaSWkcCHKromEOdY0K0ye1KvJZVv0-6NsKhnwctRfNicSerd-bmwrRZgGVnMh3Xy5Vz_ZyW7npibjzDZ6OLCLA9hco48GVBnxyvS9ZS/s1600/oph32+%2528506x337%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Back on her feet again :)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Here's to getting re-appointed, with fresh new visions, outlooks and mindsets! Press on, press on, and have a super lovely rest of the week everyone :)<br />
<br /></div>
BIKBIK AND ROROhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688260142838394342noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7612138137531680575.post-25964982925324152092014-02-23T06:27:00.000-05:002014-02-26T08:20:15.876-05:00just a little updateHi everyone! How have you been? It looks like I'm becoming a weekly blogger doesn't it lol.. It's on the weekends that I get a bit of time to post, as the hubs is around and the kids get more into <i>his</i> hair instead haha.. So I thought I'd quickly write about Lucy, and a new little girl who's up for adoption!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sVpCfKdGg5w/UwnRewlIAJI/AAAAAAAAD80/5MAjRUTNXMo/s1600/lu17+%2528506x337%2529.jpg" /></div>
Well, actually Lucy came and went within the past week; I didn't even take as many pictures of her as I'd have liked to, in part because I've been feeling so terribly sleepy. There's sleep debt with the baby of course, but I've just had a revelation that I'm entering into that stage that precedes the big M: <i>peri</i>menopause, whee! Mood swings, headaches, fatigue -- I've even learnt that there's something called crashing fatigue! And then, plus the annual acrid, smoky <a href="http://bikbikroro.blogspot.sg/2013/06/guest-blogger-rebecca.html" target="_blank">haze</a> wafting over on the breeze.. well, thank goodness for a bit of dolly goodness to cheer one up.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx9l9mle1IfS3f__Fv1Ce0TMK2fW6Y1DWK9vqbwHp6jWPyCjJZjFFcjnGbBa6-7Uu5meyiGD-wek7iAS27ZPonMy2vz2zDqQHidRTI8bBjUdHxc6OJ0H924dFVAhiYQiG65wXnAT5Xzflf/s1600/luc8+%2528506x337%2529.jpg" /></div>
Here are Lucy's eyelids. Blythe eyelids are just as important as any other part of the customizing process -- some artists do amazing work on these tiny "canvases". The lashes are swapped out too -- Blythe stock lashes are just awful, stiff and poky.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgflqWw2ZZ99sEQeTeMvS3WywZtTDFiwiKcSt45uEsAZUNETlAGdj6GKmT2tRbZ7sV49URGC91ZCg4JpvIfOHDIWRsCYgui1sFvApXAGnslC6icbl99pzQ1kF7t4tm-VI5oDfSzs7kJsk4f/s1600/oph20+%2528506x337%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And this is my new little girl, Ophelia! I love how dark she is, and a little melancholy, but sweet too. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ziktwn_ZEvU/Uwna8AcRlBI/AAAAAAAAD9E/goG4ArWOLAg/s1600/oph10+%2528506x337%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You see I couldn't quite get away from the whole Victorian/old world thing haha.. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWUvBgM8kLCeRgyHvkLvnpNUP_Q_aTYvYy2-Op18oIjuCIEg9PQUNaazN00xPUoHjtS9TsvG1u4YW6IBv5rRpWyGAiVLTDwcqLtmCUZFYBOn-X7b4Vl1faA7AQrnzeL9JqfFl09ayGYAEV/s1600/oph16+%2528507x338%2529.jpg" /></div>
Ophelia is up for adoption in the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/UmamiBaby" target="_blank">shop</a> now (though about 10 minutes ago a lady requested that she be reserved..). I'm off now to get the kids cleaned up -- catch up again real soon!<br />
<br />BIKBIK AND ROROhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688260142838394342noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7612138137531680575.post-16852776754660416322014-02-17T19:47:00.000-05:002014-02-21T22:19:46.590-05:00I’ll go with you on ships across seas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp2R3wrhpdXsMkfibN-pCPh6m11yr0iPL4K6CskOGMgfRPRu6fnihCLlD1kYOupuqRr_CkCZUK34IDNF-XK9mM7HY2ECSKKwuJ5NJrEdb1J314OO2WEb0MUtBzv_Lfy2ZHMeU1K5cycIJZ/s1600/pack1+%2528506x337%2529.jpg" /></div>
Remember how I told you about the <a href="http://bikbikroro.blogspot.sg/2014/02/oh-you-sweet-thing.html" target="_blank">heartache</a> of sending off my little munchkins -- <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/UmamiBaby" target="_blank">Blythes</a> or <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/bikbikandroro" target="_blank">Bikbiks</a> -- into the big wide world? Well, here are some snaps of what it's like, and how long and drawn out it can be -- suddenly you can't seem to take enough pictures!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2avkDpAIfUM/UwKoem7ZMWI/AAAAAAAAD7g/wysR4XnjSyQ/s1600/pack4+%2528506x337%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This is <a href="http://bikbikroro.blogspot.sg/2014/02/tastes-like-umami-spirit.html" target="_blank">Sadie</a> in her original stock outfit and box for travelling. Sadie got very close to Orso while she was living with me.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_xRNlmj_KrARXzwp5aCPT8I_JQNXQiWbHLwnvMRmsa1_Ck_hvMPz7sg_3MJk7sSwQrSW0XSVdvs2gC6Wn12w_ojb7ur1m8qtyFO0Tp1FSYpKHAiD-bmxx6QTnr8MRIWcCNPe52CqKw4JA/s1600/pack6+%2528506x337%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
One last hug.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mybxHVlAnNc/UwKofp-BBgI/AAAAAAAAD7o/-8aQhpnrshg/s1600/pack9+%2528506x337%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This sort of face is very hard to cotton-wool and bubble-wrap.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qmw6IwfrFcU/UwKtB5stZ2I/AAAAAAAAD8A/AAYwTjS5zsg/s1600/lu4+%2528506x337%2529.jpg" /></div>
Well, I'm trusting to see lots of pictures of Sadie in her new home -- she'll have lots of friends, and plenty of lovely clothes! In the meantime, a quick little peek at a new little girl -- here's Lucy! More about Lucy soon -- have a super lovely, blessed week, my friends :)<br />
<br />BIKBIK AND ROROhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688260142838394342noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7612138137531680575.post-70118833786784049672014-02-16T03:45:00.000-05:002014-02-16T03:45:37.723-05:00treasury clipping<i>Rainbow fox</i>, by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/RedHorses" target="_blank">Red Horses</a>, creator of gorgeous hand stamped jewelry and accessories. The entire list is <a href="https://www.etsy.com/treasury/MjAzNTI0ODV8MjcyNTYyNzg0OA/rainbox-fox" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_1PkAxQhr9AsqgGS56DWPOFGhP2RuZSqisELd-6w5Uw9_WEGXjRsgPvM4hw4vX295Dv9wuTArlWg_IQTRJmmBN5qIPdKdsLq3lIqSTUyKUJb0GVbZJF8yYU-W1X8FOFhHpEWqzhyRqXke/s1600/tc1+%25282%2529.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
1. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/166137747/rainbow-fox-mask-halloween" target="_blank">Rainbow fox mask</a> by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/NinnApouladaki" target="_blank">Ninn Apouladaki</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/150409872/old-hollywood-audrey-hepburn-with-cat" target="_blank">Audrey Hepburn collage pin</a> by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/bikbikandroro" target="_blank">Bikbik & Roro</a> :)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/174841724/easter-sale-pink-and-light-blue-stud" target="_blank">Swarovski rhinestone earrings</a> by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/nonnasoul" target="_blank">Nonnasoul</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
4. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/165364143/little-house-no04-hand-embroidery-hoop" target="_blank">Little House embroidery hoop art</a> by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/Mymindsattic" target="_blank">My mind's attic</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
5. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/122264585/fabric-bridal-bouquet-wedding-fabric" target="_blank">Fabric bridal bouquet</a> by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/MySecretFace" target="_blank">My Secret Face</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
6. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/165236521/set-of-coffee-sachets-hearts-valentines" target="_blank">Set of coffee sachets</a> by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/HandyHappyHearts" target="_blank">Handy Happy Hearts</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
BIKBIK AND ROROhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688260142838394342noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7612138137531680575.post-29640325727231375382014-02-09T07:04:00.002-05:002014-02-09T09:42:20.504-05:00tastes like umami spirit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JYuTNn7ozHI/UvdssdPmr0I/AAAAAAAAD6U/jnmOm3VGBP8/s1600/sadie36+%25281280x853%2529+%2528506x337%2529.jpg" /></div>
Hi everyone! How have you been? I'm writing a quick post today to say that the <i><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/bikbikandroro" target="_blank">Bikbik & Roro</a></i> shop is going on a little hiatus -- I've gotten so busy with <a href="http://bikbikroro.blogspot.sg/2014/02/oh-you-sweet-thing.html" target="_blank">the other shop</a>, it's been a challenge comfortably juggling the two (<i>and </i>the kids, <i>and </i>their schoolwork, <i>and </i>o yes! Jake! lol)!<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uDtISL_yxcA/UvdY_zoBJoI/AAAAAAAAD30/W6G9sTtIvNs/s1600/sadie16a+%2528506x337%2529.jpg" /></div>
So, ready-made items are ready-to-ship, but custom, made-to-order ones are dependent on what projects I'm working on at the time. The little girl you see at the top is my most recent custom -- her name is Sadie and I love her shy, sweet nature!<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yb15ka26pfU/UvdY_mxiU-I/AAAAAAAAD3s/evDaRj7kzUs/s1600/sadie18a+%2528506x337%2529.jpg" /></div>
I'm so honoured that Sadie's been adopted and found her forever home. As some of you did email me asking for more details about the other "mystery" shop, let me tell you more about it now.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbzlW5K2aKKyGHTrB5RKGhiJH_RV98WM6kLLOL0O4-lgNcGlKt4N8sZDKItzIWLrdcBmb1QEq5PKixrE7H8r2UXp8e1XEjsnydwMGvyI-l0w8r8etM2V9iqIlnNR8wMmgNNr7wpiPfSWaK/s1600/sadie19a+%2528506x337%2529.jpg" /></div>
I named it <i>Umami</i>, because it was a word that jumped out at me from a magazine I saw lying open on the bathroom floor (I'm sorry it wasn't a more profound story lol). But the meaning of it, and even the sound, seemed just right to me.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oHFtTXV7G1k/UvdZAXPz-sI/AAAAAAAAD4I/2CTkaspPKgg/s1600/sadie34+%25281280x853%2529+%2528506x337%2529.jpg" /></div>
In case you didn't know, <i>umami </i>is a Japanese loan word -- it means something like "pleasant savoury taste". It is the fifth taste, the other four being sweet, salty, sour and bitter. One tastes umami through receptors for glutamate, which scientists consider distinct from saltiness. Many of my favourite foods are umami-rich, including mushrooms, potatoes, soy, fish, and green tea.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT6Wd6WynyjKt_avjKtuVMhknfGRgH573Gqem4QqJbyF0uYxxRfeCIHz-gXGlzSPY3yHs4j8piow8dk7_q9nr8Duot9HAm4WeC4OttOuMy39ZI_Sbj4N-qdPKBIRb_uf12hM_tB2eGLKE0/s1600/sadie7a+%2528506x337%2529.jpg" /></div>
I've come to think that my penchant for antiques, Victorian literature, vintage films and the like has influenced my style of Blythe. Some artists create distinctly babyish Blythes; others do sultry, or sulky, punk or goth. To a large extent I guess one can tell an artist's nature, style or culture from his or her work; my Blythes seem to be vintage-y and old worldly. I think I'd like to try punkish vamp at some point, though she will probably end up looking like a Victorian punkish vamp lol.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIyr48wSFEOmmng2mAjLwjTIP9aEczBavbi9IxNvPhwQjJZyuTHX50WMr-tcwFpdQdyhE26jgKoOyUxQfukJAIy_eYJ6mHTmc4kc4ZrSdo2b_BjBEKX-8sY1HgShjrdsgjs9NOlYLczXjE/s1600/sadie43+%2528506x337%2529.jpg" /></div>
You can find <i>UmamiBaby</i> <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/UmamiBaby" target="_blank">here</a> on Etsy, and <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/114789695@N04/" target="_blank">here</a> on Flickr. People on my adoption mailing list get a sort of one-day heads-up on when a new girl is up for adoption, giving them the opportunity to reserve her before she's listed publicly in the shop. To get on the mailing list, you can just convo me on Etsy with your email addy, or email me directly at little.umiumi@gmail.com </div>
<div>
<br />
Have a lovely new week filled with child-like joy and wonder!<br />
<br /></div>
BIKBIK AND ROROhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688260142838394342noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7612138137531680575.post-16822599463392179782014-02-02T03:21:00.000-05:002014-02-02T05:49:54.673-05:00oh you sweet thing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mzp12eP1HSI/Uu35sgZf-3I/AAAAAAAAD1E/bGFGKSGbYnM/s1600/blog+%2528505x379%2529.jpg" /></div>
Hi everybody!! How have you been? Here's wishing all of you a blessed, prosperous Chinese new year! I'm taking advantage of the hubs being out with the kids to get some blogging done lol. I'd been thinking of sharing some crafty type things I'd been up to over the past couple of weeks!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ne02rt72n3g/Uu36FvAPiUI/AAAAAAAAD1U/4M7NyPq4egU/s1600/blog2+%2528505x379%2529.jpg" /></div>
Remember <a href="http://bikbikroro.blogspot.sg/2013/12/aint-nothing-in-world-like-big-eyed-girl.html" target="_blank">Blythe</a>? Well, after admiring them for so long, I finally decided to take on the challenge of teaching myself to customise. There isn't a lot of information on this art form available anywhere, and rightly so, because it's plain hard work and every artist has the right to keep her or his hard-earned trade secrets. I realised that the only way to learn was to dive right in and trust to the Lord's leading!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinYlcMhYOMepPLeGihsJrmCiZFyG0Frqq1g8Zw5kRRZzRbhv0Cq-QgjlmAIVrEC5aQ94dGBt1b-biyxbGyjV7x-wezGf4Mz-StERdAddDpdpU63o47bCOXAaRgjGZ7i5sz7fwnE0RkNLy-/s1600/blog+%2528505x379%2529.jpg" /></div>
So, let me introduce you to Peregrine! She holds a special place in my heart because she is one of my first two customs ever. As most Blythe artists will say, she's not perfect, but that's what makes her special and unique :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7saKiaRMINo/Uu4iqybWy7I/AAAAAAAAD2Q/nCJhR9XTakw/s1600/blog+%2528505x379%2529.jpg" /></div>
(Oh, Becky just popped in and said I should show a picture of what Blythe looks like before being customised. Well, like this).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOaShVjYgC4u-mzkjoD6NasI4x3WC-Dv8InXi4-KlRgi7SUGZH3m42QAyTXhiyIo6jarC1OkhxuSbxO2G4yUpWt4mCMR4x5gYDerLbWBvS5AHqr44gZkv95CoGuvDKRNkt-VEDVmvZc7g8/s1600/blog+%2528505x379%2529.jpg" /></div>
I've been enjoying the whole process so much, despite the time-consuming labour and sweat, as it really stretches one and employs so many different art forms -- carving, sculpting, painting, even beading! This is Francoise -- my little Parisienne!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H7mz5yu1TmU/Uu35nvkldjI/AAAAAAAAD0w/kh_bqn9AFsM/s1600/blog2+%2528505x379%2529.jpg" /></div>
I'm so honoured to say that Francoise has already found her mommy -- that's Blythespeak for a dolly's adoption. And yes, that's right -- it also means that I've set up a new shop, quite separate from <i>Bikbik & Roro</i>. It concentrates purely on finding forever homes for my little dolly girls :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8hiZ3QQ7mcTNItt2vhlgLT93qHO6bMOW8LvXBm0NZ83e0ocifod_H7bRYUdw80abThy9rATmrFsQSpynoTgRUhuHeTw7hKhoyx83CMvNwv8_Y2y_L7ESa0ClIfX04EH3duCmEqECrZJkY/s1600/blog3+%2528505x379%2529.jpg" /></div>
Francoise is all ready for her trip to her new home -- it's quite on the other side of the world, and I very much hope her new mom will keep me up-to-date on what she gets up to. Yup, it's true -- the heartache of sending Sailor Ghost or Guppy to their new home has reached a whole new level with these girls! One can't spend hours on such a labour of love, creating expressions and personalities, without forming some depth of attachment!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G6MJMg2ghhI/Uu35sjaIoTI/AAAAAAAAD1A/Qgv-AnJqUv4/s1600/blog2+%2528505x379%2529.jpg" /></div>
Well, I've still largely kept the two shops separate, out of some weird sense of shyness, but my <i>Bikbik & Roro</i> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bikbikn.roro" target="_blank">FB</a> friends know about it from a few of my posts (the new shop has a <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/114789695@N04/" target="_blank">Flickr page</a> which posts updates). Later tonight I'll be putting Deirdre up for adoption (that's her up there and right at the top), unless someone on the shop's mailing list contacts me to reserve her first, which was what happened with Francoise and the other girls (feel free to email me about her if you're interested ;)<br />
<br />
So that's my little bit of news. I trust all of you are doing super -- catch up again real soon!<br />
<br />BIKBIK AND ROROhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688260142838394342noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7612138137531680575.post-17393705006443822542014-01-20T01:30:00.000-05:002014-01-20T20:51:51.285-05:00cold stuff<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvJ7fP88qi8FJx6tDhm5znMJAdtdhX_pRL_VupNlbNrP4BClGwg16c1Ycw1NIOcIc9i2ZE4MjwtbcxtKou38mVmZT2YCW5FF2GTjJeX8ud3XjYAqNLGor87R7zBfvrKCNlZEwVjcAIbaKE/s1600/Astragalus+450.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Picture sourced from <a href="http://www.herbalogic.com/blogs/herbiage/7398274-spotlight-on-herbs-astragalus-root" target="_blank">herbalogic.com</a></span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hi everyone! How have you been? I've had my hands full with the kids and custom orders and... certain... artistic... things.. that I might write about at another time. Today I just wanted to quickly post this while Jakey's having his nap!</div>
<br />
I'd written this ages ago actually -- in November last year I think -- but had thought twice about publishing it at the last minute. At the time, I'd come across some comments in a forum questioning the efficacy of what I'm writing about, and it made me feel doubtful about the usefulness of sharing it. However, since it has continued proving useful for <i>me</i>, I've decided to share it now for what it's worth:<br />
<br />
I think most of us have our magic potions for coughs and colds when we first start feeling that scratchy soreness in the throat, or launch into those unmistakably irrepressible wet sneezes. What are some of your desperate, hopeful fixes? For me, there's prayer first of course, but what about echinacea, vitamin C, and zinc? I read an article in <i>Prevention </i>magazine on this; they listed some of the common ones, dividing them into those that really do help, and those that are just hype. <br />
<br />
The verdict on echinacea, for instance, was that it was just hype -- the herb might shorten the duration and severity of symptoms, but it seems many brands don't contain the amount listed, and some formulas have none at all. Megadosing on vitamin C was found to be hype as well -- a 2007 review of 30 studies found no evidence that vitamin C supplementation prevents colds in the normal population, and megadoses can cause kidney stones, upset stomach, and even internal bleeding in children. <br />
<br />
Among the supplements that <i>were </i>found to be of value though, were vitamin D, omega-3s and zinc. Which leads me to what I wanted to share from my own personal experience. See those barky things up there? That's <i>astragalus propinquus</i>, one of the main herbs used in traditional Chinese medicine. At the drugstore, it's just called astragalus, or astragalus root. The <i>Prevention </i>article categorised the herb as the real deal, stating that it was shown to stimulate the white blood cells that fight infection. Studies had found that astragalus appears to boost immunity in mice and may have similar effects in people (<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>from </i>Prevention<i>, Dec 2011</i></span>).<br />
<br />
In its write-up on the herb, the University of Maryland Medical Center states that the herb is "an adaptogen, meaning it helps protect the body against various stresses, including physical, mental, or emotional stress. Astragalus may help protect the body from diseases such as cancer and diabetes. It contains antioxidants, which protect cells against damage. Astragalus is used to protect and support the immune system, preventing colds and upper respiratory infections, lowering blood pressure, treating diabetes, and protecting the liver.<br />
<br />
"Astragalus has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. People sometimes use it on the skin for wound care. In addition, studies have shown that astragalus has antiviral properties and stimulates the immune system, suggesting that it may help prevent colds. In the United States, researchers have looked at astragalus as a possible treatment for people whose immune systems have been weakened by chemotherapy or radiation. In these studies, astragalus supplements seem to help people recover faster and live longer...<br />
<br />
"Recent research in China suggests that, because astragalus is an antioxidant, it may help people with severe forms of heart disease, relieving symptoms, lowering cholesterol levels, and improving heart function. At low-to-moderate doses, astragalus has few side effects. However, it does interact with a number of other herbs and prescription medications. Astragalus may also be a mild diuretic, meaning it helps rid the body of excess fluid" (<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">read in its entirety <a href="http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/herb/astragalus" target="_blank">here</a></span></i>).<br />
<br />
Well, I'd been taking astragalus for some time already, but at a low dose, as -- in my mind -- a vague sort of booster for my regular multivitamin. During pregnancy and in the early postpartum period, the immune system is suppressed, which would account for the colds and other infections pregnant women and new moms commonly complain of. I wasn't sick once the entire time I was pregnant with Jacob, praise the Lord, but I did catch the kids' colds almost right after I delivered.<br />
<br />
So I started taking the astragalus. I'd often seen the roots in the Chinese medicine stores, where they're sold to people who don't mind drinking the stuff. I <i>do </i>mind, so I get mine nicely encased in easy-to-swallow gelcaps.<br />
<br />
Well, over the past couple of weeks, both the girls have been having the flu, passing it back and forth to each other -- considering our daily close proximity, I held out pretty well till a few days ago, when I felt the first irritated inkling of a sore throat while I was reading in bed.<br />
<br />
I decided to go get a mug of the old standby -- honey and ACV -- and then, on a whim, the astragalus. As I'd mentioned, I'd been on a low half-dose all the while, so I just took another half-dose (which would essentially make it the recommended daily full dose).<br />
<br />
The next morning, the sore throat was there in its full glory, as well as the beginnings of some nose-runniness. Well, I popped another dose of the astragalus, and guess what -- by the late afternoon, the sore throat had eased off. I carried on with the full strength dosage for another day and the cold never manifested, thank you Lord! And so, I felt I really had to share this with all of you.<br />
<br />
After what I'd read in the <i>Prevention </i>article, I hadn't even really bothered with the vitamin C megadosing thing; I mean, I think it's handy if you routinely miss out on your regular intake of fruit and veggies, but I think vitamin C works together with other nutrients to boost your immune system rather than being a powerhouse entirely on its own.<br />
<br />
Anyway, shortly after writing this, we'd gone to Beijing -- the kids caught colds, and looking after them in that small hotel room, I'd soon felt that familiar sniffliness coming on. Well, I full-dosed on the astragalus, and cleared it off overnight -- I was perfectly fine the rest of the trip, praise the Lord.<br />
<br />
And so, having turned to astragalus a couple more times in recent weeks, I just thought I would share this with you after all, especially since some of you are dealing with the worst winter ever. Of course though, this is my own personal view -- I am by no means a professional -- do be sure to do your own research before trying any health supplements, and be aware of possible health and drug interactions. Have a super blessed new week everyone -- catch up again real soon!<br />
<br />BIKBIK AND ROROhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688260142838394342noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7612138137531680575.post-3369637870964381852014-01-13T06:34:00.000-05:002014-01-13T06:34:50.505-05:00while it snows outside<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uIBUSRuau5U/UtOd_4bJXoI/AAAAAAAADyE/nTPGDeBIlh8/s1600/LT1+%25282%2529.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
1. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/163391252/dress-sofia-fiodor-jacket-suit-vintage" target="_blank">Dress with silk ruffles</a> by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/SofiaFiodor" target="_blank">Sofia Fiodor </a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/125570749/rainbow-moonstone-hoop-earrings-vermeil" target="_blank">Rainbow moonstone earrings</a> by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/ElfiRoose" target="_blank">Elfi Roose </a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/169565386/luxury-chunky-knit-grey-wool-blanket-the" target="_blank">Chunky knit wool blanket</a> by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/connectionknits" target="_blank">Connection Knits</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
4. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/154230663/chess-board-game-stoneware-sculptures" target="_blank">Stoneware chessboard</a> by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/Murtiga" target="_blank">Murtiga </a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
5. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/170996101/organic-branch-necklace-copper-nature" target="_blank">Organic branch necklace</a> by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/BuddhaBird" target="_blank">Buddha Bird </a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
6. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/103831882/pink-cream-and-peach-fabric-flower" target="_blank">Fabric flower bouquet</a> by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/freshsewn" target="_blank">Fresh Sewn </a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
7. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/171251128/gold-tassel-necklace-yellow-imperial" target="_blank">Gold tassel topaz necklace</a> by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheNorthWayStudio" target="_blank">The North Way Studio </a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
8. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/127814089/6x6-print-of-original-live-joy-365" target="_blank">Live Joy 365 print</a> by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/ShawnPetite" target="_blank">Shawn Petite </a></div>
BIKBIK AND ROROhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688260142838394342noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7612138137531680575.post-64956759739258579252014-01-02T03:47:00.000-05:002014-01-02T14:52:18.912-05:00ain't nothing in the world like a big-eyed girl<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGKqEvf4220/UsErHyZw6PI/AAAAAAAADwk/cAFdckp2dxU/s1600/tabbly+bly2a+blog.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Tanyusha and Isadora discuss whose turn it is to go shopping.</span></i></div>
<br />
Do you know Blythe? Well, I thought I did, having a few of them in the house among our other dollies, but only recently did I discover what a following she has around the world, and what a treasure she is for serious collectors. A beautiful Blythe really is a work of art -- a OOAK piece equal to any sought after painting or haute couture outfit. Collectible Blythes can easily cost into the thousands, and dressing and photographing Blythes has in itself become an art form.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdgeYohq0OkXzO4LRO8WWPJ__i9lCwN7uKF1VA_wQbkzTbnMHwgeAvL0x5su02c-VKrd-uifnv9xmopZwBKrP1QS0BUfrMYcC_Uo31pM35HnjsyOCG1FDoHI4gMjiwy9NuhJdwH9LC1fts/s1600/ro+bly2+etsy2+blog.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Ro et al.</i></span></div>
<br />
Personally, I've always found Blythe plain adorable; while she can have any number of personas -- cute, geeky, sultry, sad -- my Blythes have always been chosen for their endearing sweetness, their lovable expressions of innocence, wonder and affection (yes, even Rebecca's vampire Blythe, Persephone).<br />
<br />
When the kids were younger, they did find Blythe a little unnerving, mainly because of their discomfitingly large, staring eyes. But now that they're older, they're appreciating the artistry of the dolls as much as dressing them up and taking photographs of them (Becky has in fact been doing this with Isadora -- see <a href="http://ohmyamazingdays.blogspot.sg/2013/12/isadora-in-beijing-part-2.html" target="_blank">here</a>).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mnWpNRV8BBU/UsEtaIh2jsI/AAAAAAAADww/OX1sHBdPtl8/s1600/carr+blog1a.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Isadora and Orso share their thoughts on safety and sizing.</span></i></div>
<br />
Anyway, since Isadora and company were starting to go out more, it was only a matter of time before I had to come up with something for travelling with Blythe. It simply isn't practical, or even cool, to go around clutching a doll in your hand, even if it is Blythe, and even if you are five.<br />
<br />
A lady who saw Becky's post on Isadora's Beijing trip emailed me about the messenger-style bag we'd used to carry Isadora around -- a week later, I'd sent her two of the satchels and have now decided to include them in the shop.<br />
<br />
As any Blythe owner knows, carrying Blythe out is a tricky venture -- you can't just zip her up in your handbag or knapsack (especially if she cost you a mint!), and if you try sticking her in a tote, her big head makes her lean forward dangerously and look like she's hanging herself.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheBYrx4oCUPaC161PQN5dF3vs94LTsfmKoQVdPKwCrT3gdGuLKw-4vRy16naNF6BxEWySpQq7wDCm3z4oUf8neH5zgleKhGSOFa3H7FXjp8YygRc23vAwk8_gb-9mD6uTOTTxMwQx1kPYt/s1600/tabby+bly1+blog.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Happily strapped in. Most Blythe dolls also have a pet they'd want to have along.</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Having discussed these concerns with the mini Blythe moms at home, I realised that I had to think up a satchel that had the ease and convenience of an open tote, but also some safety feature that prevented Blythe from leaning over and falling out. Well, this satchel is designed for carrying Blythe upright, <i>and </i>for showing her off -- she can see the world <i>and </i>the world can see her. What stops her from leaning down and out? A strap inside the satchel that holds her in place. You just tuck her in and belt her up, and off the two of you go on your adventures -- hands free!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpB0vDnWwUw8n1heYSM5bNQdiZZJ-wAI8TaHqyR5ot0zIeeI1uT12vYvS5gbwv2cTIDiNGy_tZ272w-FvQBWYuTaBfOAxUddghpwMrEPyTSUnSTZjh2MbsVI4dJss2rhxWIipMG2pSQSgN/s1600/tabby+bly4+blog.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Orso demonstrates that the satchel isn't just for Blythe. </span></i></div>
<br />
The satchel features a protective sueded interior and on the outside is a carefully hand-painted Tabby Cat pocket. This particular satchel is available <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/173927896/blythe-doll-messenger-tabby-cat-satchel" target="_blank">here</a> and ready to ship -- custom satchels are available through the shop or via email.<br />
<br />
Have a lovely rest of the week everyone!<br />
<br />BIKBIK AND ROROhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688260142838394342noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7612138137531680575.post-86167338461474986302013-12-28T21:21:00.000-05:002013-12-29T10:00:53.838-05:00Beijing - Part 4<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgghUM_0xhQ2UC3iYgfjB8GJbudKQMCaFKdecF7yJLNCk7-l6eZIjuELmzOgtFBmPSqk0KSoqiozSQrJx6dRL-xMsW34Vw-6MTajXdKQgEljlyG0oTvqmaMlsOepwRxovzDmPjdgiTIaf9/s1600/china78+ed.jpg" /></div>
Hi everyone! How have you been? I trust you've been enjoying a lovely, blessed Christmas season. I know we have, praise the Lord! In the past few weeks, I've experienced mightily God's faithfulness and goodness in my life -- genuine miracles as I step out in faith. In this wonderful time of the year, I pray that the Lord bless you<br />
and keep you; the Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace :)<br />
<br />
And now -- the last chapter of our Beijing saga! I realise that the Christmas week meant many of us were busy with family and friends, and Blogland was quieter than usual. If you missed the third part of our trip, you can find it <a href="http://bikbikroro.blogspot.sg/2013/12/beijing-part-3.html" target="_blank">here</a> -- do have a looksie; I consider China's royal places some of its most beautiful areas.<br />
<br />
In comparison, this last post on the subject will be a bit more mundane, as the picture at top should tell you haha! That's Wumart -- yep, Beijing's version of Walmart! We enjoyed shopping here very much -- in much the same way many of us enjoy shopping at Walmart (hey, well I do). We got loads of cheap stationery and Chinese books here.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wKcz0CRmJms/UqW_SwRJ2II/AAAAAAAADtM/pb8tsaHnpbQ/s1600/china79+ed.jpg" /></div>
The second floor of Wumart is the supermarket. There were lots of interesting produce which we don't get at home, like these fish. I think they're largehead hairtail, which can grow to over two metres -- if they had the chance.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z0GGL9kLvcI/UqW_TZJS15I/AAAAAAAADtI/L8w22C78OHo/s1600/china80+ed.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Seaweed -- yum!<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZLMRljmh3VM/UqW_TmRfsGI/AAAAAAAADtc/JOmL7ZQsP78/s1600/china82+ed.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And yeah, you know how they say everybody loves fried chicken wings? Well, this way you can have them any time you want!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDsmWSnbyhExcORDBnZovHfhzoranyneUgjOm1hUBAkt2po3wrQJHOvL_KOTAkEhJLbmqBGZUvqESD_oeQFQvVBxFzqslB9h8xO-Ap0l6kZR2u0Xymvx3Mt_f7KJpZUpU-JXZ36SlhwZHo/s1600/china81+ed.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And while you're at it, have some chicken feet too!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GupQwGwNK-4/UqW_UrGfmKI/AAAAAAAADtk/UmzfH9IS6lw/s1600/china83+ed.jpg" /></div>
There's Rebecca's Blythe dolly Isadora watching <i>Mars Attacks!</i> in the hotel with us (well, right there it's Tom Jones attacks). Incidentally, Becky has been blogging about Isadora's adventures in Beijing -- have a looksie <a href="http://ohmyamazingdays.blogspot.sg/2013/12/isadora-in-beijing-part-1.html" target="_blank">here</a>!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG28BdFhMEetEiQIhF5ZmgZcwcfzSQ_1wShEQAjoSWUj6Ggd7qq9WLqwac7sgFnTAqWbpKrskvVt8xdSkKMrWI8gOQ2S3xM9SVbEwPdth-9kHfImUbsMq-kf86KfSqcSYAEyVyjuIHXOZk/s1600/china84+ed.jpg" /></div>
Outside the Beijing Museum of Natural History. The place has improved <i>dramatically </i>since I was last there, with many fascinating exhibits. I was glad the kids were always enthusiastic about all the places we visited.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-31TlLSGCBBk/UqW_X-cZJTI/AAAAAAAADuk/Ii-j8Nts1yQ/s1600/china94+ed.jpg" /></div>
Me taking a picture of an animatronic dinosaur, just one of many in an impressive re-creation of prehistoric life. He is cute, yes?<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgULenpU1zLQwOHnsDfk0ZfyC078MoH0sJRxQk9yDaAze9YL0QS61lPmj2XeTjKkyeZWmgGqJT-oo52eWc1ZN63XUIqbIfDL3L2zGqw_0Ff4C6p-B-UJpMQab0habjAHKlgc9vIjCdC1yR-/s1600/china85+ed.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It was a truly educational visit.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-74t-A-joZfk/UqW_WYn1DOI/AAAAAAAADuI/dZaat2nRhCg/s1600/china86+ed.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
An interesting house en route. I don't think it's abandoned.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTbDgT50ThDYCZ6uCApcKaIVj4aoCMEilmAKcnWV9_E2VHp51zev9Q-xjTZjHhS_-THcDrWTdh69GGy6mSn52yloELj1fvAM6phFXrrOt5tgxrIzCUgMlaVVDXskL80FDlkFSrqk92PfPY/s1600/china87+ed.jpg" /></div>
Climbing up to the Temple of Heaven. This complex of religious buildings was built from 1406 to 1420; it was visited by Ming and Qing Emperors for annual prayer ceremonies. The place is huge, about 660 acres.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1JIDtQRLcfBt1aEVclu2FbWu0GeMXw5KgGbGQiCssXliPhU1GYbNB7SzdBFzHYdDAsxmoWrIZ2A6u5Zy7QcoGVvNDQV8PZw1Tvxbe7DAa8rFUH_KQygRBZbTVUGqdreJI6fzRF1ULHp4x/s1600/china88+ed.jpg" /></div>
Inside the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. It is apparently located at the exact point where heaven and earth meet. The wooden pillars of all the halls support the ceiling without any nails or cement. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdR7rG8CKPsZ1GaQz2IxN3aWfFQzJLa1jTX_3UwFeIj6d0AUAhbULuLBRyHLTIv6khQumGY15bvH99QOyoXoAQbjFwHZj-6v12d7xvS1n-pzlkP0J7VCLAuVYnak0bPWb0du-odefe1a3l/s1600/china89+ed.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
At the airport on our way home. There's Ro with Isadora.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJVZDC0tB2eKJprOf4uJuzz6MSJ8-1AJM8jYoP7BAUfd9R4MM3-_MaWnAYZw0t5VwjO6AGlXglAhtrOo_uAMuIyFf_uk0b2U28uq_zvAh35KgaOSDmFuASxq0ZaOxkSA4C-3CFQLrjZAye/s1600/china890+ed.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It was a wonderful time of family bonding.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-677D3FUu-1w/UqW_YOwZRuI/AAAAAAAADus/DEEXJkTOeEI/s1600/china95+ed.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
See you again soon! Here's wishing all of you a beautiful, prosperous, blessed new year!<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>* More pictures <a href="http://ohmyamazingdays.blogspot.sg/2013/12/isadora-in-beijing-part-2.html" target="_blank">here</a></i> :)</span></div>
</div>
BIKBIK AND ROROhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688260142838394342noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7612138137531680575.post-8211996845884934132013-12-22T21:53:00.000-05:002013-12-22T23:40:48.741-05:00Beijing - Part 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7LT8AV_aauI/UqW_OTV_3CI/AAAAAAAADrM/906Ca8Yk8Iw/s1600/china65+ed.jpg" /></div>
Despite the long day at the Wall, we decided to stop off at the Summer Palace on the way home. The Summer Palace is China's largest and most well-preserved royal park, featuring numerous lakes, gardens and buildings. It was first built in 1750, largely destroyed in the war of 1860 and restored on its original foundations in 1886. UNESCO included the Summer Palace on its World Heritage List in 1998. This picture shows the breathtaking beauty and serenity of the place.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZIMhstfW4WA/UqW_N1BLKCI/AAAAAAAADq4/WdQFrsUusVY/s1600/china63+ed.jpg" /></div>
This sign was at the entrance, suggesting that there had been sufficient uncontrolled, bad tourists making rude imaginations to warrant it.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pqcHnipOJK8/UqW_OZj1rhI/AAAAAAAADrU/PEK8Z9Eut6Q/s1600/china64+ed.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This sign, seen at regular intervals throughout the park, seemed to confirm it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IJVya4rQFAY/UqW_Xaci8II/AAAAAAAADuc/KQPB4lAPdUs/s1600/china93+ed.jpg" /></div>
The lake was largely iced over and looked lovely in the setting sun. Here you can see we were pretty tired after the Wall!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xnHRprRv6gk/UqW_OVOPTNI/AAAAAAAADrI/e4sAgY9eTZ8/s1600/china66+ed.jpg" /></div>
We met an elderly Chinese man practicing his calligraphy strokes on the pavement. He used a large brush dipped in water. Seeing Becky, he asked her what her Chinese name is. His calligraphic skill was amazing; his <i>hanyu pinyin</i> -- the phonetic system for transcribing the sound of Chinese characters into Latin script -- not so much.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E4D8Nolhm8M/UqW_PAD5DGI/AAAAAAAADrc/wtrgqvxet44/s1600/china67+ed.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A magnificent evening.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ0AWxPo7vzZiP0Y3y_s9ltXaL9uUqq1vq4NnOX-pId-Ac5WTuNZtzcXMd4y_lxkiFptbIg6ynsDlmBJvPRsOMS5Pq23dtbZmj-ykvz7td0DdWHUozAWlH1AFKMMysh3DQBAUR5FBOxW3Q/s1600/china68+ed.jpg" /></div>
This cheery fellow was a cab driver we met on our first day there. Finding him a fount of information about the country, as well as an excellent driver -- which is really something considering the blasé recklessness of both drivers and pedestrians there! -- we had hired him for the drive to the Wall. Seeing him outside the hotel the next day, we snapped this picture.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitQS4qqR4ahnnR5YL8mkw6ZTuB_iMGDQhGCJFm8KxWhwk5BaW6dkfQVbm9myeIm8qYtYyFXb1uauQiwyzKdfW3YW40g87Ix4YMHyV0GXN3WF3yOtlVDKZBA3cLFnRT_kzwP-1ciOXvQz-z/s1600/china70+ed.jpg" /></div>
Entering the Forbidden City. Just imagine it -- once a gilded cage to 24 emperors from 1420 to 1911, the Forbidden City now attracts millions of visitors a year, making it the most visited World Heritage destination in the world. Reginald Johnston, tutor to the last emperor Pu Yi, wrote: "If ever there was a palace that deserved the name of a prison, it is that palace in the Forbidden City of Peking, in which emperor Shunzhi pined for freedom, and in which the last but one of his successors, the emperor Guangxu, ended his dismal days nearly twelve years ago".<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGpihAUW359DcETl3Dg1-qQl45O0T9Ut6gaNmBrjJLnp8W4PkRYBQH9Fl-VVxPByjy6Rn8oKRqgoRpwZHXNZevo_1CBqvhNn2DGmXi3xMdVWeNPh9g2ebsGmy6ZQESJRadDLZNPMpCFrjL/s1600/china69+ed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGpihAUW359DcETl3Dg1-qQl45O0T9Ut6gaNmBrjJLnp8W4PkRYBQH9Fl-VVxPByjy6Rn8oKRqgoRpwZHXNZevo_1CBqvhNn2DGmXi3xMdVWeNPh9g2ebsGmy6ZQESJRadDLZNPMpCFrjL/s1600/china69+ed.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A giant.. um.. pot.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9KCkMiLRnScmBkxq3Pc7gfhL9D9E3Ckkpd4CHVPUqIGsAGr1FDZ7QujaqgaZ5x_bzhJqwmy2g6UcAMuXCVqWmugNCMsa_LrACC2iXeV9xbL-r1ZIA4HJylE7rK9GR2qabBF2iIimHfE7b/s1600/china71+ed.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To think of life in this place... perhaps that cage beside the throne says it all.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9X60MECPEeQ/UqW_Rmpjl_I/AAAAAAAADsg/D8-NsT6_0Uo/s1600/china72+ed.jpg" /></div>
The largest stone sculpture in the Forbidden City. Weighing about 250 tons, this marble relief of nine dragons playing with pearls was originally carved in the Ming dynasty, then re-sculpted in the Qing. Apparently anyone caught touching this holy stone would receive the death penalty. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgnzgv2GEh_8BhDv57Jkn9ekXU8Fjxhp5O-QMVGJE1bFp8zIlUEWc9m_cXng0owbKZMWE6eM6_xy1EvrMSU_VPpqQmmid6Fnqi2jh4hURWv3hjTC_l0IyTi7Um5VF652CifFNmOJdIqR_G/s1600/china73+ed.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Inside the Hall of Preserved Harmony. One isn't allowed into any of these rooms, so one must make do squeezing and taking turns with the crowds at the doors and quickly snapping whatever one can.</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpOaA30tyb0yQaFlcpixkig29Zb5jsGmQlMWBlQGiPA4kKPQKWw3n29PFwkuep0GRqsTLcwR_igCzlBSI75cgr4w7anKzFrNwSMl-rkFsJvlT14_JZ9_A1boQJRDYFAYK3GAzGm_q1MvEa/s1600/china74+ed.jpg" /></div>
Imagine all the scenes that mirror has reflected!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitvGgw_sl1s0bWFxKdSdO7XHEHIQ1TQI_qbawml77mgCcFOrKSvRWLstbtdgRV8zehE7cR-uhFyg568B8x_S6CnaOtQDHjzE3Q0kyO35POp9U3vnf7LrwccSNP3YnqljMfaXnKBiZrc7tY/s1600/china75+ed.jpg" /></div>
An adorable guardian statue. Isn't he great? The last time I was here, some twelve years or so ago, he was covered in snow. Our friendly cab driver had told us not to expect any snow this year; it was, he said, a sad sign of global warming. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ys88Dib68cY/UqW_SLHO7gI/AAAAAAAADs0/hQ9AI3NunvQ/s1600/china77+ed.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Another happy day! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The last part after Christmas. Have a blessed, wonderful week everyone!<br />
<br />BIKBIK AND ROROhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688260142838394342noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7612138137531680575.post-78334951007080978252013-12-15T21:05:00.000-05:002013-12-21T00:12:44.397-05:00Beijing - Part 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1WyuYs5hZyM/UqW_GkYktxI/AAAAAAAADoU/T5X2M9x1QrM/s1600/china39+%2528502x377%2529.jpg" /></div>
Naturally, one thing we simply had to do was visit the Great Wall! The Wall is about an hour and a half's drive from the city. There are several parts of the Wall that are open to tourists -- meaning that they've been repaired and made less treacherous than they would have been if they'd been left in their 2000-year-old state. This picture shows a stretch of road leading up to the Wall; it's packed with souvenir vendors, all selling pretty much exactly the same things.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qUcE40sU76U/UqW_Gxyh6sI/AAAAAAAADoI/a8zlgvVPW-M/s1600/china40+%2528502x377%2529.jpg" /></div>
As we were visiting a part of the Wall that doesn't start from the ground up, there was the option of taking a cable car (the Wall is actually made up of different sections that had been built by different dynasties over a long period of time). Of course, the kids were super psyched about that, despite the fact that their mother has always been dead set against the teeny cable car rides that go over water back home (hey, what can I say -- a bunch of them actually fell right off into the sea back in the 80s, killing seven and stranding several others, the very evening my parents were driving us there).<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKaJUhxSHbwiVEByTr6jExJk3PljwUgh0YA1qEV57YP5J5l4oTcbM1cl93q26XWld95ouYwvXIaWGYAGGRrj7NTvTd72x0jmSM5UFim8uPQm3_DqGYLDrJoqF-hL6vY-muw7C6rrI-23ki/s1600/china41+%2528502x377%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But they have good environmental policies.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgupkIE5x8r5tQyg5temHdYhZYWpbvtQzl4r8EieIhglHfe7cPc7_n2V0xVsBugn39QqIL8vIW83kJOZUN5wwPoWEHPYYAiuja98axoK4Nuv-lXjuU5EcLtC3wuybxisVqy_naWoxw4kk_B/s1600/china42+%2528502x377%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And service quality targets. Helping joyously is always a good thing.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lDIfQr8r384/UqW_IIXrCcI/AAAAAAAADow/fHN_h2L_kbo/s1600/china43+%2528502x377%2529.jpg" /></div>
I have to admit the ride <i>was </i>pretty fun. The ascent had all the anticipatory thrill of a roller-coaster. This was one view from the car.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dCcqNBJ8mls/UqW_IFku2bI/AAAAAAAADpA/yPc5TolX5cE/s1600/china44+%2528502x377%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A Great Wall resident.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimto7OBEkaxD8WkiBVcBY7I1mhtBzmSe2fxYyzOOudKsdWqeJHDlSaXk-rs7tq4hDZOIUSeph9IyHfcdFJ3v2xwRbvTI7nHaJSkK00Aph2r5Wlh5Ht_hBRjoH7L-8lpMBWdBYJeQtKNgm_/s1600/china45+%2528502x377%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Start of the climb.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Y4NzngLubHjVHixeHOtwdxL-TitH9pKZsNIlJMDRXtJqdh9JUHw5EZSjGzlvrYStX0Qz0vc_nEKhmb50w4QGtKQv5Bxp_RIKhyphenhyphenP-RoBv8dP7vBXF8l5uXaYvbU4oajMPEj1X6T-PIAEq/s1600/china46+%2528502x377%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Another view of the Wall. It really was longer and more majestic than I'd ever imagined.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKKR4k6a4ccuKZVSeYWs9PBKlkHIGlQUOrcXOHJV7HU4bNNe7LCNXJGyQXctCRePfeS1BpknBt0BzdS7GqtB7321HqwiueOqLOWMuXwRMatIi5ps2-6J1Ejo-Qx-6_ieqlnWHsOb2MRlqY/s1600/china47+%2528502x377%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Taking a breather. Despite the cold up there, our exertions quickly made us work up a sweat.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlUs4Kjum9tSd981TvI0Edb1LW3V3-GBmj54kocQxzRdOkrcGBf-5mynZ9jclMoHCpCcP6m5hjzoKK0QHl9gDS3MLJICsq05IHQtx5z4WyVHmjWr7e8VgGH4FGZF2L_LvdpqCbpG4l4Jlp/s1600/china48+%2528502x377%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Now I finally know what those watchtowers that dot the Wall look like inside. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd4b9M8yv-x4HxjhwfuA2QyPVWbVdpW_dk-sJ5UcvWDZ0UIODhF1fumga5SgPyAxUuhOPNazNU62wQKBCNDPGk7obGIevGKAuayDbZC2eZfnHQOEZH3R0eNA5PdCNbcckj8YNakQ5dxVkq/s1600/china49+%2528502x377%2529.jpg" /></div>
They're quite maze-like, in fact, and it was fascinating to imagine all the activity that took place in them so many centuries ago.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AoqDCGWgeEQ/UqW_Jl1A23I/AAAAAAAADpY/hve2UNTP3VA/s1600/china50+%2528502x377%2529.jpg" /></div>
The Wall stretches over 5,000 miles. One plus of visiting in the middle of winter, was that it was uncrowded and peaceful.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKKAfHNdliN2Da9lFq8vcdftOWWtp6xr-9lkSxnVMgmbuTqFckcn1R8nKN3z3fzrM_bhRVveDkrY4hpDtZ0mUbW3gxgJ7rpp22WovUOfmffxciQ5D1i0L5AqZaU3IzlUOA6MZT1FzmUmlE/s1600/china51+%2528502x377%2529.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ro very enthusiastically braved the long walk and steep climbs.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7NGfRrX6pE8/UqW_LHWKNYI/AAAAAAAADqE/5VtTQzXR4RQ/s1600/china53+%2528502x377%2529.jpg" /></div>
We'd been hoping for snow, but considering how steep many of the areas were, I think after all we were glad we didn't have to contend with ice.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVkcWn4s1-8FntIK9c0_jJ7_qZ5FzkGWS7uocYyGf76-vwnOPPCS3SMh5emHfaCCcLDdzBG-38pXoew9e8hSjGKCPxUnh40OXauW3cH15WUyjvqBiKoxbHPymWjKTiDqDWUECF51VdJpTB/s1600/china54+ed.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A view from the Wall. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdtVbOzy7GB9E5_G3s2U0gaOzcnEHh3IowrSpuEeA3uby4YdcZdpi2kx4XPDwJ-6gH14THPZ95-UiQkqwm-UlE0hoT5S3Lprj9AsFlTAYTwkWxuy4D7jUNQdbxEDfaw3WCL7-A2zeNYXA3/s1600/china55+ed.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It got tiring for the kids after awhile.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3UMJSfFXXq4/UqW_LxWpdjI/AAAAAAAADqA/5ws1R0UnvpU/s1600/china56+ed.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But they persevered.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t03nsf-HMW4/UqW_M3Y8SXI/AAAAAAAADqk/s86AQKXrpu4/s1600/china57+ed.jpg" /></div>
The amazing length of the Wall. It's wonderful how it hugs and follows the high, rough terrain. What a feat of engineering, and just imagine all the effort and manpower involved in its construction. It is said that it cost the lives of over a million people.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9tpS396Ym_8/UqW-9o8OoHI/AAAAAAAADk0/Pyl1Ixznmzk/s1600/chiina58+%2528502x377%2529.jpg" /></div>
These ladies from Yunnan province were part of a group that was so taken with the kids they insisted on taking several photos together.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoeQdWCB0jCGVvM9GjTHB0hYsB4H2joEzPBPAQg_cZTXUSoq1ke3odpWqnFlMTTI2iq37o5oMvDp5raZAYHAC325Hgx_d_zGiUsm9HPBDzcYmiE82v0A97xUdG6_AgDRaUvWcAVWpEtVji/s1600/china59+ed.jpg" /></div>
We saw this beautiful blue-winged bird frequently. I believe it is a black-billed magpie, and has a lovely iridescence on its plumage. Being as nature-starved as we are, we took quite a number of pictures of them, leaving many locals wondering at our inordinate excitement.<br />
<br />
OK, that's all for now -- the third part in a bit! Blessed weekend everyone!<br />
<br />BIKBIK AND ROROhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06688260142838394342noreply@blogger.com15