Tuesday, September 16, 2025

CLOSING DOWN BLOG

 

Fortified houses

In Australia it is illegal to build a house that protects the occupants from intruders from the outside. If the police cannot enter forcibly then it is fortified.

Wednesday, February 26, 2014

Regulations in Australia and probably the same in other countries.

Engineering in Australia not governed by the Fair trading department like plumbers carpenters and bricklayers mechanics and electricians.
The engineering trades are welding and boiler making and fitting and machining.
These are industrial trades if you like. The others are used in domestic situations and consumers need protection.
This is also one of the reasons tiny houses are tolerated but if there is ever an accident on the roads then watch the laws change. This is also why my gypsy caravan is only the load on the trailer with a total weight of 700 kilograms.

steel house sketches

 The  above shows a two  story house with over six feet head room up and down stairs, and is towable on the roads. The draw bar and wheel assembly slide into tubes that pass threw the house and are bolted into place with bolts next to the house structure and the tubes go two feet into the house walls.
This sketch shows a three story house that tilts up on site. This also uses the same draw bar and axil assembly as the two story version.
There is a universal law that allows one to put anything on there land that is removable. These two structures are removable.
The floor is suspended on 20mmx20mm square tube.
These are light enough to be helicoptered into a wilderness site.

Thursday, February 13, 2014

Steel welded frames

In my gypsy wagon I used 20mmx20mm steel tube for the frame and the thing came out stronger than I had thought. The towing width and the height are what governs a tiny house. What about a house on skids like when there was no wheels?
The two photos below show an early house on skids photographed up near the Queensland border.

The cladding is plywood with a steel roof.
Now if one were to build a sixteen foot high house and lay it on its side for transport then the height restrictions become higher.
Maybe a three story tiny house!
This is my gypsy wagon...


Monday, September 15, 2025

Water Diet: An Informative Overview

Introduction

In recent years, the search for quick and natural weight loss methods has led many to explore various dieting strategies. Among these, the Water Diet has gained attention due to its simplicity and claimed health benefits. This overview examines its origins, practices, potential advantages, risks, and the scientific perspectives surrounding water fasting.

What Is a Water Diet?

A water diet involves consuming only water for a designated period—ranging from several days to several weeks. Some variations permit limited intake of herbal teas or broths, but the core principle remains water as the primary source of hydration and sustenance.

Historical Context

Throughout history, water-based fasting and detoxification practices have been employed across cultures for spiritual, health, and purification purposes. Ancient civilizations like the Greeks and Egyptians practiced fasting involving water consumption. Today, water diets are often promoted as detox methods and weight-loss tools.

How Does a Water Diet Work?

The fundamental idea is that abstaining from solid foods compels the body to burn stored fat for energy, resulting in weight loss. Adequate water intake supports hydration, maintains bodily functions, and may help eliminate toxins. Proponents also suggest benefits such as improved digestion, increased energy, and enhanced mental clarity.

Typical Protocols

Short-term fasts (1–7 days)

Extended fasting under medical supervision

Intermittent fasting periods involving water only

Potential Benefits

Rapid Weight Loss: Initial quick weight loss mainly due to water depletion and glycogen reduction.

Detoxification: Believed to assist in removing toxins from the body.

Metabolic Reset: Claims of restoring digestive and metabolic functions.

Mental Clarity: Some individuals report enhanced focus during fasting periods.

Risks and Controversies

Despite its popularity, health experts caution about several risks:

Nutritional Deficiencies: Extended fasting deprives the body of essential nutrients.

Muscle Loss: Prolonged fasting can lead to muscle breakdown.

Electrolyte Imbalance: Severe fasting may disrupt electrolyte levels, affecting heart and nerve function.

Refeeding Syndrome: Improperly ending a fast can cause serious health complications.

Unsuitability for Certain Populations: Pregnant women, diabetics, and those with specific health conditions should avoid water fasting unless supervised by healthcare professionals.

Scientific Perspectives

Most health authorities emphasize that sustainable weight management relies on a balanced diet and regular exercise. While short-term water fasting might offer some benefits, prolonged fasting without medical oversight can be dangerous. Research indicates that initial weight loss is often temporary and primarily water weight, with potential for rapid rebound.

Conclusion

The water diet remains a controversial topic within health and wellness communities. While it may provide short-term benefits and serve as a detox under professional supervision, it carries significant risks if undertaken improperly or for extended durations. Consulting healthcare providers before initiating such a regimen is essential.

Final Thoughts

A thorough understanding of the science and possible consequences of water fasting empowers individuals to make informed health decisions. Emphasizing balanced nutrition, consistent physical activity, and sustainable habits is key to long-term well-being.

Disclaimer: This overview is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any fasting or extreme dieting practices.

Further Reading & Resources

National Institute on Aging: Fasting & Health

Mayo Clinic: Intermittent Fasting

World Health Organization: Nutrition and Fasting

Scientific Journals on Fasting and Detoxification

DO NOT EXERCISE WHEN WATER FASTING.


SOS The Hidden Ingredients: Unveiling the Impact of Salt, Oil, and Sugar

Introduction  

Salt, oil, and sugar are everyday ingredients that play a significant role in our diets. They add flavor, texture, and comfort to our meals and are deeply embedded in our culinary traditions. However, their excessive consumption—especially through processed foods—poses serious health risks. Understanding how these ingredients affect our bodies is crucial for making healthier choices and promoting long-term well-being.

The Role of Salt  

Salt, or sodium chloride, has been used for centuries as a preservative and flavor enhancer. It’s essential for maintaining fluid balance, transmitting nerve signals, and supporting muscle function. Yet, overusing salt, particularly in processed and restaurant foods, can lead to high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular diseases. Many packaged foods contain hidden salt, making it easy to exceed recommended daily limits without even realizing it.

The Impact of Oil  

Oil is a key ingredient in cooking that enhances flavor and texture. While healthy oils like olive, avocado, and flaxseed provide beneficial fats, the widespread use of refined and processed oils—especially trans fats and excessive saturated fats—poses health risks. Consuming too much unhealthy oil contributes to obesity, high cholesterol, and heart disease. Fried foods and processed snacks are often loaded with these fats, leading to unnecessary calorie intake. Choosing healthier oils and moderating usage can significantly improve health outcomes.

The Sugar Dilemma

Sugar provides quick energy, but added sugars—hidden in many processed foods, beverages, sauces, and snacks—are a major contributor to health problems. Excess sugar intake is linked to obesity, diabetes, dental issues, and metabolic syndrome. Many people are unaware of the high sugar content in their favorite foods, leading to overconsumption. Replacing added sugars with natural alternatives like fruits or reducing intake altogether can help prevent these health issues.

The Interconnection of These Ingredients  

Salt, oil, and sugar are often found together in processed foods, making it challenging to monitor and control intake. Their combined excessive use amplifies health risks, contributing to the rise of lifestyle-related diseases worldwide. This pattern particularly affects populations with limited access to fresh, whole foods.

Moving Toward a Healthier Lifestyle  

Awareness and moderation are key. Cooking at home with fresh ingredients, reading food labels carefully, and reducing reliance on processed foods can make a significant difference. Incorporating more fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains ensures a nutrient-rich diet without excessive salt, oil, or sugar.

Conclusion  

Salt, oil, and sugar are not inherently harmful—they are essential ingredients that enhance our meals. The concern arises from their overuse and hidden presence in many foods. By understanding their impacts and choosing healthier options, we can reduce the risk of chronic diseases and promote better health. Mindful eating, education, and small lifestyle changes can lead to lasting benefits.

Call to Action  

Empower yourself with knowledge about what’s in your food. Opt for whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible, limit processed snacks and fast foods, and experiment with herbs and spices for flavor. Small steps today can lead to healthier habits tomorrow. Together, we can foster a culture of mindful eating that prioritizes health and well-being for ourselves and future generations.

Monday, September 8, 2025

The Burden of the News

In the small town of Musselbrook, Sarah often found herself overwhelmed by the constant stream of news on her phone. Every headline seemed more devastating than the last—wars escalating, natural disasters, political unrest. The weight of it pressed down on her, leaving her feeling exhausted and helpless.

One evening, she shared her feelings with her friend Mark. "The news feels heavier than anything I've ever watched or read before. It’s like a relentless storm inside my mind."Mark looked at her thoughtfully. "Maybe it’s because it’s real. Unlike entertainment or fiction, these stories are about real people facing real pain. And that can be hard to carry."

Sarah paused, reflecting on his words. She realized that while staying informed was important, it was equally vital to protect her mental well-being. She made a conscious choice to limit her news intake, to seek out stories of hope and resilience, and to reconnect with the simple joys of life.Sometimes, the most powerful stories weren’t the ones that made headlines—they were the quiet acts of kindness, the small victories that reminded her that even in dark times, light could still be found.

And in that moment, she understood that while the world’s suffering was real, so was her capacity to find hope and make a difference, no matter how small.

Thursday, September 4, 2025

When I think I know everything I know nothing because I know more than I did before.

 "When I believe I know everything, I am actually unaware of how much I have yet to learn. True wisdom comes from recognizing the limits of my knowledge, for with every new thing I discover, I realize how much more there is to understand. In essence, the more I learn, the more I realize how much I don't know — and that awareness keeps me humble and open to growth."

Friday, August 29, 2025

Political lies

 In halls of power, shadows loom,

Where truth is buried in the gloom.

Their silver tongues, a cunning art,

Deceive the masses, tear apart.


Promises like dust in wind,

Words spun thick, where lies begin.

They wear a mask of noble guise,

Yet hide the greed that fuels their lies.


The truth, a casualty in their game,

While voters drown in false acclaim.

They barter souls for fleeting gain,

And dance on lines of moral stain.


Controversy swirls around their claim,

As honesty becomes a shame.

Yet still we watch, and still we trust,

While leaders lie, corrupt, and lust.


For in this web of false pretends,

The line 'tween foe and friend distends.

A system built on broken dreams,

Where truth is lost in endless schemes.


So question all, and don’t relent,

For honesty is heaven-sent.

Lying politicians, beware,

Your falsehoods drown you in despair.

Monday, August 11, 2025

The power of one.

 The perfect partner is someone who embodies kindness, compassion, and understanding. They are supportive and listen actively, creating a safe space for open communication. They are honest and trustworthy, valuing loyalty and integrity. They share similar values and interests, fostering genuine connection and mutual growth. A perfect partner is also caring and considerate, showing affection and appreciation consistently. They are adaptable, patient, and committed to building a balanced and respectful relationship, inspiring you to be your best self.

Marrying a person who embodies kindness, trustworthiness, and support can bring many positive aspects to your life. Such a partner creates a foundation of stability, safety, and emotional fulfillment, which are essential for a healthy and lasting relationship. They encourage personal growth, help you navigate challenges, and share in your joys and successes. Marrying someone with these qualities fosters mutual respect, deep connection, and companionship, making everyday life more meaningful and enjoyable. Ultimately, choosing a partner with these traits can lead to a loving, harmonious partnership built on trust and genuine care.

Finding a partner with qualities like kindness, trustworthiness, and support often involves being intentional and open-minded in your approach to relationships. Here are some suggestions:

Know Yourself First: Understand your values, goals, and what you truly want in a partner. Self-awareness helps attract compatible individuals.

Expand Your Social Circles: Engage in activities and communities that align with your interests—whether through hobbies, volunteering, or social groups—where you can meet like-minded people.

Be Patient and Open: Building a meaningful connection takes time. Stay open to getting to know different people without rushing the process.

Prioritize Genuine Connections: Focus on forming authentic relationships based on mutual respect and shared values rather than superficial qualities.

Use Trusted Platforms: Consider dating apps or websites that emphasize serious relationships and have profiles that highlight values and personality traits.

Work on Personal Growth: Cultivating qualities like kindness and emotional maturity yourself can attract similar individuals.

Remember, meaningful relationships often develop organically, so patience, authenticity, and openness are key.

The ideal candidate for a partner with such qualities typically possesses certain traits and behaviors, including:

Genuinely Kind and Compassionate: Shows empathy and care toward others, including you.

Honest and Trustworthy: Values integrity and is open in their communication.

Emotionally Mature: Handles situations calmly and thoughtfully, capable of managing their feelings.

Supportive and Encouraging: Celebrates your successes and supports you through challenges.

Shared Values and Interests: Holds similar beliefs and goals, fostering compatibility.

Respectful and Considerate: Treats you and others with respect, valuing boundaries and differences.

Committed and Loyal: Looks for a lasting, meaningful relationship and is dedicated to growth together.

Self-Aware and Responsible: Understands themselves well and takes responsibility for their actions.

Anyone who demonstrates these qualities and actively works on personal growth can qualify for the position of a loving, supportive, and trustworthy partner. Building a relationship is a mutual effort, so it's also important that both partners are committed to nurturing these qualities in each other.

If you get sick, having a partner with qualities like support, compassion, and understanding can make a significant difference. Such a partner would likely be there to help you through your illness, providing emotional comfort, practical assistance, and encouragement. They would prioritize your well-being and work with you to ensure you get the care and rest you need.

Remember, a strong partnership involves mutual support—being there for each other in good times and bad. If you find someone with these qualities, you can feel confident that they will stand by your side during difficult times, helping you recover both physically and emotionally.

It's understandable to feel that the number of suitable partners might be limited, especially if you're looking for someone with specific qualities like kindness, trustworthiness, and support. Finding a compatible partner often takes time and patience, and quality matters more than quantity. 

Focusing on building genuine connections, being true to yourself, and maintaining your standards can help attract the right person. Remember, meaningful relationships are worth waiting for, and sometimes, a smaller, genuine circle can lead to deeper, more fulfilling partnerships. Stay patient and open-minded—you might be surprised when the right person comes along.

The perfect partner for you is someone who aligns with your values, needs, and desires—someone you feel comfortable and connected with. While I can't know your personal experiences or relationships, often, the person who could be your ideal partner is someone you've already met or are getting to know. 

Pay attention to how you feel around different people—do they show kindness, support, honesty, and respect? Do you feel safe, valued, and understood? Sometimes, the right person isn't immediately obvious, but with time and awareness, you may realize that someone in your life already possesses many of these qualities.

Trust your intuition and take time to build genuine connections. The right person often becomes clear through shared experiences, mutual respect, and emotional compatibility.

That's wonderful! Knowing someone for such a long time—70 years—is a rare and valuable foundation for a deep, meaningful relationship. Over the years, you've likely seen many facets of each other's personalities, values, and character. This history can provide a strong sense of trust, familiarity, and understanding.

If this person embodies qualities like kindness, support, honesty, and loyalty—traits you value—you may already have found someone truly special. Reflect on your feelings and the dynamics of your relationship: does it bring you happiness, peace, and a sense of being valued? 

Long-term familiarity can be a powerful asset. If both of you are open to nurturing your connection, it can potentially blossom into an even more meaningful partnership. Trust your heart and instincts—you might already have the perfect partner right beside you.

Deciding whether to pursue a deeper relationship with someone you've known for a long time is a personal choice, but here are some thoughts to consider:

Reflect on Your Feelings: Do you feel a genuine affection, respect, and connection with this person? Do your feelings align with what you value in a partner?

Assess Compatibility: Have you both shared important values, interests, and goals? Do you enjoy each other's company and support each other's growth?

Consider the Future: Are you both willing to communicate openly and work together to build a fulfilling relationship?

Trust Your Intuition: Sometimes, long-standing relationships have a deep foundation. If your gut feeling is positive and you believe this could bring happiness and companionship, it might be worth exploring further.

Communicate: If you feel comfortable, share your feelings and intentions openly with this person. Honest conversations can clarify whether both of you want the same thing moving forward.

Ultimately, only you can decide what feels right. If your heart is telling you to go for it and the circumstances are right, taking that step could lead to a rewarding new chapter together.

I'm sorry to hear you're going through a difficult time. When your heart is feeling broken and your blood pressure is high, it's very important to prioritize your health and well-being. Emotional stress can impact physical health, so taking care of yourself is essential.

While your heart may be emotional and vulnerable right now, that doesn't mean you can't trust it to guide you in making thoughtful decisions. At this time you are the one to make decisions and get knowledge there are ways.

Remember, healing takes time, and being gentle with yourself is key. If you're feeling overwhelmed or physically unwell,  Your health and emotional well-being are the most important priorities now.

If your potential partner is present with you now, it might be a good opportunity to have an honest and calm conversation. Take a moment to reflect on how you feel in this moment—do you feel comfortable, safe, and hopeful? 

Deciding about such an important step shouldn't be rushed, especially when emotional and health concerns are involved. Listen to your heart, but also consider your well-being. If you're feeling overwhelmed, it might help to take a little time to breathe and think before making a decision.

If you feel ready and confident, sharing your feelings openly with this person can be a meaningful step. Remember, it’s okay to ask for time to consider your feelings fully. Your comfort, health, and happiness are the most important things.

That’s a significant and meaningful situation. Knowing that your potential partner understands everything about you can be a strong foundation for trust and honesty. It suggests that there’s openness and a level of vulnerability that can deepen your connection.

Before making a decision, take a moment to reflect on how you feel about this person—do you feel respected, valued, and comfortable? Do you trust their intentions and feel confident in their support?

If you’re feeling uncertain or overwhelmed, it’s okay to give yourself some time to process your emotions. Open communication is key—consider sharing your feelings with them, and see how they respond. 

Remember, the most important thing is your well-being and peace of mind. Trust your heart, listen to your instincts, and proceed at a pace that feels right for you.

That’s a very profound and heavy realization. Knowing that your potential partner cares so deeply—so much that they would be willing to face such a difficult outcome—shows the strength of their feelings and the depth of your connection.

Deciding about a future together, especially when it involves such intense commitment, is incredibly important. It’s essential to consider your own feelings, health, and well-being first. While love and deep bonds are powerful, making decisions that impact your life and health should be approached with care and clarity.

Take your time to reflect on what’s best for you. If possible, talk openly with your partner about your feelings and concerns. Remember, relationships built on mutual understanding, respect, and care are healthiest when both people prioritize their well-being.

 Your happiness and health are the most important things—trust yourself to choose what’s best for you.

Absolutely not. Love, connection, and meaningful relationships are not limited by age. Many people find happiness, companionship, and deep bonds at all stages of life. Your feelings are valid, and what matters most is what feels right for you.

Age can bring wisdom, experience, and a greater understanding of what truly matters in a relationship. If you feel a genuine connection and love, those feelings are valid regardless of how many years you've lived.

Remember, it's never too late to pursue happiness and companionship. Embrace your feelings and trust that the right person will appreciate and cherish you for who you are. Your past experiences and the life you've lived only add to the richness of your potential future together.

Deciding whether to take the jump is a deeply personal choice, and only you can truly know what feels right. Here are some things to consider:

Listen to your heart: Do you feel a genuine desire to move forward with love and connection?

Assess your well-being: Are you in a good place physically and emotionally to embrace this step?

Open communication: Have honest conversations with your partner about your feelings, concerns, and hopes.

Trust your instincts: Do you feel a sense of peace and confidence about this decision?

If after reflection, you feel that love and companionship are worth pursuing, and you trust your feelings, taking the step could lead to a meaningful and joyful new chapter. Remember, life is too short to hold back on happiness when the heart is telling you to go for it.

Whatever you decide, prioritize your health, happiness, and peace of mind. 

Yes the perfect partner is you.