Call it what you will...

It's two weeks into the varsity year and already I'm in over my head. It seems like I hit the ground running last week and just haven't found a place for a pit-stop. Something tells me I won't find one until the semester is over. However, I'm working hard and setting my mind to it. Hopefully that will keep my motivation going. And allow some time to blog too.

For a change I had a very definite idea for e topic of this post. The problem came in deciding on a title. Not always a problem for me, but this one had me stumped.

You probably won't be surprise that my topic for discussion is the Oscar Pistorius/Reeva Steenkamp tragedy. 

A story that has had whole world talking and engaging in for the past week. I can honestly say this is has been the only news story I have even followed so closely. The suspense to hear the latest findings or decisions kept me checking my News24 app almost 24/7. 

I'm not going to blab on about how I think he's innocent or guilty or what I think his punishment should be, but rather take a look at it in a different light. I really feel bad for the guy, not because he shot someone he loves and now regrets it. But for the simple fact that he has practically had the whole world in his face while having to deal with a tragedy that will change his entire life. I was mortified to see a picture inside the courtroom that showed Oscar standing in the dock with about 50 cameras flashing in his face- I could think of nothing worse. I understand that is a world-wide icon and is/was (depending on your views) South Africa's sporting hero, and that is no excuse to be treated any differently regarding the legalities. But seriously, with all due respect I think some South Africans need better insight.

On Thursday morning, 14 February 2013, when the news of the shooting broke, the first report I heard on the radio stated that Oscar had shot his girlfriend thinking she was an intruder. Full stop. Nothing more. 

As the day progressed, various stories and theories of what had ‘actually’ happened permeated the media sphere. None of them the least bit factual according to my understanding as the details of the incident were only to come out in court. It could not be confirmed that it was even Oscar and Reeva involved. Only that a woman had died at Oscar Pistorius' Pretoria home and a man was in police custody. Nothing more. 

I came across some comments on various articles about the incident on News24 that other people had posted. Some saying things along the lines of: if he gets bail, its racist, he shouldn't get bail because he's guilty, and the like. Others would say things like you can't destroy the life of a South African hero and icon, or that he should not get preferential treatment. I found some of the comments completely outrageous and showed a complete lack of insight or understanding of the case. Having followed the story so closely, I realized that one could not form an opinion based on a single media report especially before any accurate information was addressed in court. Yet many people quickly formed their views and opinions without thinking twice. I know that many will be up in arms now that he has been granted bail, saying how can you let a killer loose on our streets, it's a racist ruling that he gets bail because he's white and famous, and, and, and..... 

In all honesty, I don't understand how some South Africans think. I mean no disrespect in what I am about to say, but I believe I have a valid argument. How many people voted for the ANC in the last election? Majority. And who is our president?  Jacob Zuma. A man who not so long ago was all over the front pages of our newspapers for a rape trail. I don't understand how a country's majority can vote in a rapist to govern a country, and then turn around and say things like: Oscar must rot in jail. They seem incredibly contradictory in my mind. 

I happened to attend the same primary school as Oscar (a few years later, obviously) and to us he was always a hero as he overcame his ability and excelled in sports to a greater degree than any of us ever have. Personally, he is still a hero to me in that regard, and also as the proud South African that I am. I do believe that we as a country need to support him regardless of our opinions and whether we think he is guilty or not, but for the pure fact that he is one of our own. 

If you're thinking I'm saying it’s okay to get away with murder, you're wrong! I do believe it is a punishable offense and I think that premeditated murder should result in the death penalty or a lifetime in jail. I agree it would be a sad day for all South Africans if that should be Oscar's fate, but for now we need to let the law run its course. 

Despite the majority of the media covering this story throughout the week, I kept track of other news stories too. I bet most people didn't know that there were probably 10 or more stories in the news of rape, murder and other violent crimes. It breaks my heart to see such stories, and at some point this week I actually thought to myself that I preferred living in ignorance to what is really happening. Sure, I knew rape and murder were "regular" crimes in our country, but I was unaware of the great magnitude of it all. I actually feel truly sick seeing all these things happening to innocent people, especially women and children. 

I know that there are awareness campaigns and such to try and change this state of affairs, but I ask: how is awareness going to stop a man from raping a child, or a person from pulling a trigger on another with no punishment or consequence? It's not- simple. But what is there we can do to stop this violence? It's a question that seems to be unanswerable. 

I shall leave you with that thought. 

These are my own views, and in no way are they intended to discriminate or offend anyone. If they have in any way- my most sincere apologies. 

Please feel free to leave your comments below, however I will at my own discretion decide on their appropriateness. All discriminatory comments will be removed.

My condolences to both the Steenkamp and Pistorius families.

Rest in Peace Reeva. My God continue to shine your light upon those who truly loved you!

Until next time, 

Be wise! 

<3 Nicole_Kayley

I’m Back! And ready for Action!

After being MIA for a few weeks, the blogger in me it back. The past few weeks have been pretty much utter chaos! I’m so glad they are over. After a big mess of a registration, I’m finally fixing all the bugs in the system- figuratively. 

Varsity starts again next week, which is crazy since it felt like my 3 month holiday only started last week! But I can honestly say I’m ready for the new academic year. Although, I’m probably just as nervous as I was last year, at least it’s not a completely new ball game.

I read a quote the other day that said:

“Everything I need to succeed is within me” ~ Unknown.

I think that is the perfect attitude to adopt going into this new year (I know it’s February already, and possibly sickening for some of you that my new year starts only now).

I’m keen for a fresh start and motivated to achieve great things this year! And I hope you will all join me in that pursuit.

Last week, my family and I went away to Magalies Park Country Club for the week. It was just what we needed. Some time to relax and energise ourselves for the year ahead. Being out of season, the resort was incredibly quiet midweek. Every day we chilled at the pool, which we had all to ourselves (mostly). Talk about bliss! As a result of the heat, swimming was most welcome- even after 7pm some nights. And in addition, I came home with a lekker tan (for a change!). On Tuesday, Chris and I took to the golf course. Although I didn’t play, I did have fun driving the golf cart around!

So, after indulging probably too much in the good food we had, I’m going to have to work extra hard to get back on track with Weigh-Less and hopefully reach my goal soon (I’m almost there- cue the yays).

Maybe its a good thing I didn't play... looking at this pic now

Off to play golf

Early morning walk

The Happy Golfers nearing the final hole

Whichever chapter you currently find yourself in, my wish for you is that you make it a great one and walk out of it with the success you deserve!

Until next time,

Believe in yourself!

<3 Nicole_Kayley

The Big TWO-OH!

On Friday (11 January) I celebrated my 20^th birthday. I had a very special day, spent with my family, some friends and my amazing boyfriend ;-). I must say the excitement of birthdays and turning one year older as slowly worn off for me. I still feel like I should be 17. But, nevertheless, life goes on. And now I can no longer act like a teenager (even though it’s still fun to get a sparkler in your dessert). It’s time to start a new chapter in my life.

Here are a few pictures from my celebrations. EnjoyJ

Here’s to the teenage years, and life after the big two-oh!

Much love,

<3 Nicole_Kayley

Sucker for Social Networking... Closer Than Before

Firstly, (officially) Happy New Year all! I hope the festive season was kind to you. It certainly was to me, even after pigging out over Christmas and stuffing my face with way too much pudding. I weighed in yesterday for the first time since the December break, and I was less 1kg! (Cue the whoop whoop!!).

So, I’ve hit a little bit of a writer’s block this week (sad face). I have been desperate to blog about something, yet nothing came to mind. Trying to ask my Facebook friends for ideas turned out a fail. However, I shall mention that Mo did request I write a whole post about him, and my dad suggest I talk about the new addition to our family. (Her name is Clara Lynne, by the way, and she’s adorable). Chris asked if I would write a post about him too. His side of that conversation went as follows:

“Your amazing boyfriend”

“How much of a troll he is”

“How you sometimes want to strangle him”

“But you love him anyways”

It’s all true. He is amazing, and means the world to me. Even though he can be a troll (talk nonsense and cause trouble just for the sake of it- for those of you not in the lingo-loop), and make me want to strangle him sometimes, I still love him to bits!

All my difficulties aside, I found myself thinking about social networking- I hit the jackpot! Something to blog about! YAY!!

In all honesty, I hate the idea of social networking. Sometimes I wish I lived way back when before the invention of the internet and mobile phones. It seems so peaceful... and a hell of a lot cheaper! It is so addictive for me. A few years back I was probably signed up for almost ten different social networking platforms. I was on Facebook, Twitter, mySpace, YouTube, Email, mXit, BBM, WhatsApp, Google, Blogger... and the list goes on. At some point I realised it was a waste and I didn’t fully utilise each platform and gave up a few of them. I still make use of some of them for the pure fact that it aids my communication with people in my life.

The main complaint I always hear about social networking is that it destroys good old fashioned face-to-face communication. What is this “face-to-face” you speak of? If you’re seriously asking this question, I think you may have a real problem! I was always a shy child, and to some extent I am still rather shy in unfamiliar situations. I think that was the reason I got into social networking in the first place. It was an outlet for me and it was easy. I didn’t have to be shy anymore. However, as I’ve grown older and experienced both aspects of “normal” social behaviour (as in pre-social networking social behaviour) and social networking behaviour, I’ve come to develop an opinion around the social-sphere that is the internet. It is not the best way to communicate in terms of creating and developing friendships and relationships, however, it is one of the easiest. Although I love to leave my phone behind from time to time so I can do other things and just forget about my networks, I am constantly wondering if I’m missing a call or a BBM, or new updates.

 I think it is safe to say that social networking has completely transformed the way we live and has taken over our lives (even somehow managed 2 cHAngE h0w ppl sP3ll nd TyPe- DON’T do it, it’s terrible). Last week, my family and I were fortunate enough to go see the stage show of Dirty Dancing at Montecasino’s Teatro, and while sitting in the theatre waiting for the show to start I noticed how many people were on their mobile phones, either texting or taking pictures (to Tweet most probably). I don’t understand how you can be out with your family or friends to have a good time, but constantly feel compelled to let the rest of the world know who you’re with and what you’re doing. I came across this image on Facebook the other day (ironic, I know, but at least I wasn’t in the company of others). I think it is a brilliant idea, and I’ve even tried implementing it at the dinner table at home (first one to pick up their phone has to wash the dishes). We’ll see how that one works out.

With all that said, I do believe social networking has done wonders in making the world a smaller place. I can easily send messages to my friends in a different city, or my family overseas at the quick and easy push of a button (if Telkom is co-operating, that is).

*takes a break from writing this blog to check her BBM*

(Yes, Chris, it was you)

So, weighing up the pros and cons of social networking, I find myself in the middle. Its great and handy, but also a royal pain in the ***.

I’d love to know your thoughts on social networking. Post a comment below. And if you have any really interesting topics I could blog about in the next few weeks, please feel free to comment here, too! I love getting comments from readers (just be sure to include your name, I’m not telepathic, and I like to know who you are).

Yours in social networking,

 but also in the real world,

PeaceJ

<3 Nicole_Kayley

The Year That Was... A Time For Reflection

2012... What a year it has been! I feel like I was sitting at my PC just yesterday typing up a post about “New Years Revolutions”.

 I Wrote:

“Well, I’m starting my own revolution. It won’t matter to me if it catches on or not, but it’s something I want to do for myself.”

I also went on to say how 2012 will be the year I get fit. I can happily say that I have made progress along that line! I have been cycling on my stationary bike often, taking occasional walks with my Mom, and doing some serious fat-burning cardio as well as a few strength exercises. However, my greatest achievement this year would have to be taking control of my health and changing my eating habits. From the beginning of the year I wanted to lose weight so that I would no longer be classified as ‘overweight’ and enter the ‘healthy’ classification. I got off to a shaky start at the beginning of the year and with all the stress of 1^st year, I managed to pick up quite a bit of weight. With a lot of motivation, commitment and help from my mom, I managed to do a total 360 with my habits and achieved success!! At the end of September my mom and I decided to join Weigh-Less again. It was easy at first while I was determined to make the change, but got more challenging along the way. Nonetheless, as of Christmas day I have lost about 9kgs and my Mom about 7kgs. However, I think the festive season may have set me back a bit, but I’m determined to reach my goal of 12kgs early in the new year.

Sitting here and looking back on the past year, I can say with a smile on my face that it was a good one. Despite a few setbacks and upsetting circumstances that interrupted the good times, on a whole it was a successful year. I passed all my varsity courses (with good results that I wasn’t expecting). I feel like I have gained a whole new perspective on life and grown greatly as a person, discovering part of who I am this year and possibly where my life is headed. Although, I know change is inevitable. I’m not one who enjoys major change, yet in the past fear of minor changes has led me to take on even greater changes(who knows why? I’m different like that). But in this time of reflection I have decided to accept and treasure the change. Life can’t stay the same forever, which is why I’m making a deal with myself to treasure the moments I find myself in, and make my past worth remembering in 50 years time, when I sit in an armchair and tell stories of my past (kind of the way my grandparents do with me). I want to be able to say it was all worth it and that I enjoyed it. I want it to be worth sharing with future generations (if I’m so lucky to have that opportunity). I will be ever grateful.

And so, as we leave 2012 behind and venture on into a new year, let us go in with open hearts and open minds. Love more, laugh louder, and live with no regrets.

Happy New Year Readers!

May 2013 be Your year and bring all the love and success you deserve and may your dreams come true!

Before: September 2012

Now: December 2012

Cheers to 2013!!

Until next year,

Much Love,

<3 Nicole_Kayley

‘Tis The Season... To Be Busy!

So, it’s Christmas time again, yet it doesn't feel like it should be. Maybe I’m getting too old for the childish excitement of the season. And possibly because I bought all my own presents with my mom, the surprise is sort of no longer existent. Yet, I’m probably busier getting ready for Christmas than I am during a week of varsity deadlines.

With one week to go, I have managed to bake about 6 batches of cookies, a bunch of mini fruit cakes that I covered in fondant and decorated, and yesterday I covered and decorated my Granny’s Christmas cakes (not exactly the way Granny would have done it, but certainly Cake Boss quality- I can dream, can’t I?).

Mini Fruitcakes

The Main Attraction

So, now while I frantically try to learn how to play them traditional Christmas carols on the bass by Christmas Eve, I’m listening to Jeremy Camp’s Christmas album (‘Christmas-God With Us’) in search of that Christmas spirit. I’m sure it’s hanging around somewhere.

This may also be the last opportunity I get to blog before Christmas itself, so I want to wish all my readers an amazing festive season, a special Christmas and an incredible new year!! Remember, it’s not about the presents, but the meaning behind the holiday. This year I’m concentrating more on giving. Whether it is in giving my time to someone close to me or donating food and clothes to those strangers who face a very dark holiday season. I urge you to do the same. Take the time to think of others this festive season and do something kind. As big as a car load of old clothes and such, or as small as a simple compliment. We can all do it!

Rejoice! For God is with us!

Hallelujah, the King has come!

Here’s to 2013!

Until next time,

Keep Smiling!

<3 Nicole_Kayley

Clarens... My Future Home

For the long weekend in September, the six of us (Mom, Dad, Tiff, Daisy, Chris and Myself) packed up the car and made our way down to Clarens in the Free State. The whole purpose of our trip was for the MGB 50^th Anniversary. I don’t think I've ever seen my Dad so excited and in his element as he was walking around the town square in amongst all the MGBs that had driven down for the weekend.

I have decided that one day I want to live in Clarens. It is so beautiful and peaceful. We were there for a holiday last April for Easter when I fell in love with the small town and the house in which we stayed- Apricot Lane. In the town there are a number of quait art galleries, craft shops and eateries. One could spend hours just ambling around the town square. If the opportunity presents itself visiting Clarens is a must!!

It was a great and relaxing weekend, despite the hike we did up to the top of the mountain (as per Chris’s persistent request). It was all incredibly worth it as the view from the top was breath-taking! I decided to keep this post short and add a few pictures from the weekend. Enjoy!!

Apricot Lane <3

Chris and I at the top of the mountain

Apricot Lane is the Green roof to the left of red roofs in the middle of the picture

The four of us having a break on the mountain

The view from the top

We found this on the mountain

Having a blast on the trampoline

Jam-packed in the car

My Dad as happy as can be

Only a few of the cars on show in the square

Until next time,

<3  Nicole_Kayley