I must really enjoy pushing myself to the limits! If it wasn’t enough for me to do the cycling course, I participated in a one day’s film makers course on Saturday. Yes, totally exhausted but somehow managed to get to the Phoenix Arts with my bruised legs!
The great thing about this course it was totally hands on. The instructors Steve and George were totally brilliant, helpful, and hands on. The course went over some of the basics about filming. Close ups, medium shots and long shots. Loved using the Mac book for editing purposes and picked up so many helpful tips along the way. The best part was learning to film professionally. Yes, it has made me think of all the bloopers, mistakes I’ve made on my own film project so far. It’s all part of the learning process. Will have to reshoot outdoors again as spring appears. Sigh…
Monday, 28 February 2011
Sunday, 27 February 2011
Learning to ride a bike again!
Seeing an advert for a woman’s cycling course during half term was a great opportunity not to pass up. Having not been on a bike since the age of ten it was going to be interesting to see what happens. My brothers were always putting me off riding because of their dangerous BMX's wheelie stunts. Could I cycle again? Was the big question. There was no harm in trying.
Explaining my half-term plans didn’t go down too well with family and friends. Some outright disapproved, while others emphasised caution, concerned for my safety on the course. Interestingly enough, many people see cycling on the road as dangerous. According to some statistics, cyclists have the highest death rate in London. Was that going to put me off? My worst fear was learning to ride again after all these years. There was only one way to find out.
The cycling course ran for five days at a local school. The first day was spent in a school gym,which was a relief to myself and the other women who weren’t ready to venture the outdoors. After a few false starts, near hits and just missing the wall, I was riding a bike within twenty minutes of starting the course. Not bad! I was a pretty good rider.
Exhilaration, excitement, freedom and independence are the best words to describe how I felt. I was liberated in a way that a car would never allow me. It gave me control, time to think, de-stress from all worries. Burning calories was another added bonus for being on a bike. The other things that I discovered, it was therapeutic, fun and I was more tuned in with nature than behind a wheel.I felt it was the beginning of something important in my life.
What made this project so worth while was the hard work and effort of the female instructors who were running the course. They were the catalyst in helping to bring women from all different backgrounds together. No language necessary, no backgrounds explained, a bond was made. A voice understood. Equal yet learners. Something special was happening. Hope for the next generation. Before I get carried away in this poetic nature, (I have been writing a lot of poems lately- explain later) I will be buying a bike soon. Not to replace my car any time soon, but to ride with my children to the park and other safe cycling places.
This course has given me the confidence to ride a bike again. I’m sure I speak the same for the other women who attended this course. Danger will always be on the road. Pedestrians face it everyday. Taking courage in trying something new is always going to be difficult. Cycling allows you the freedom to use other means of transport than a car everyday. It is cheap, friendly to the environment, great form of exercise and a brilliant networking system for women. It was surprising to see so many mothers on the course during half term. Many brought their children along and it was no problem. Everyone had fun and felt part of the group.
I had my doubts at the beginning, but I'm glad to have done this course. For me the pros outweighed all the cons. I took up the challenge and didn't regret it. It's how you learn. Watch out! You may see me in a charity ride soon!
Explaining my half-term plans didn’t go down too well with family and friends. Some outright disapproved, while others emphasised caution, concerned for my safety on the course. Interestingly enough, many people see cycling on the road as dangerous. According to some statistics, cyclists have the highest death rate in London. Was that going to put me off? My worst fear was learning to ride again after all these years. There was only one way to find out.
The cycling course ran for five days at a local school. The first day was spent in a school gym,which was a relief to myself and the other women who weren’t ready to venture the outdoors. After a few false starts, near hits and just missing the wall, I was riding a bike within twenty minutes of starting the course. Not bad! I was a pretty good rider.
Exhilaration, excitement, freedom and independence are the best words to describe how I felt. I was liberated in a way that a car would never allow me. It gave me control, time to think, de-stress from all worries. Burning calories was another added bonus for being on a bike. The other things that I discovered, it was therapeutic, fun and I was more tuned in with nature than behind a wheel.I felt it was the beginning of something important in my life.
What made this project so worth while was the hard work and effort of the female instructors who were running the course. They were the catalyst in helping to bring women from all different backgrounds together. No language necessary, no backgrounds explained, a bond was made. A voice understood. Equal yet learners. Something special was happening. Hope for the next generation. Before I get carried away in this poetic nature, (I have been writing a lot of poems lately- explain later) I will be buying a bike soon. Not to replace my car any time soon, but to ride with my children to the park and other safe cycling places.
This course has given me the confidence to ride a bike again. I’m sure I speak the same for the other women who attended this course. Danger will always be on the road. Pedestrians face it everyday. Taking courage in trying something new is always going to be difficult. Cycling allows you the freedom to use other means of transport than a car everyday. It is cheap, friendly to the environment, great form of exercise and a brilliant networking system for women. It was surprising to see so many mothers on the course during half term. Many brought their children along and it was no problem. Everyone had fun and felt part of the group.
I had my doubts at the beginning, but I'm glad to have done this course. For me the pros outweighed all the cons. I took up the challenge and didn't regret it. It's how you learn. Watch out! You may see me in a charity ride soon!
Sunday, 30 January 2011
2011 and Leicester Film Doc festival
A new year begins and I am looking forward to what it brings.Did I achieve everything I set out to do in 2010? No of course not. Everything that has happened to me over the last year, good and bad, has been a learning curve. That’s my take on life. I feel stronger, focused and ready to take on a challenge. I’m ready for 2011 whatever it brings for me!
Recently I attended Leicester First Doc Film. I spent the afternoon watching the following documentaries: Leicester Market by Nick Hamer, A Life in Modeling by Gareth Morgan, Treasure Box, Young Athletes Programme, Islam by Largescale Films, Shut Your Mouth by Keith Allot & Disabled Children’s Service, Photographer. It was a real eye opener. Lots of interesting and exciting stuff going on in Leicester! Inspired to complete my own film project!
Recently I attended Leicester First Doc Film. I spent the afternoon watching the following documentaries: Leicester Market by Nick Hamer, A Life in Modeling by Gareth Morgan, Treasure Box, Young Athletes Programme, Islam by Largescale Films, Shut Your Mouth by Keith Allot & Disabled Children’s Service, Photographer. It was a real eye opener. Lots of interesting and exciting stuff going on in Leicester! Inspired to complete my own film project!
Sunday, 19 December 2010
Literature at Lunchtime 'Uncle Tom's Cabin and Voluntary work.
I attended Jane Mackay literature at lunchtime hour last Thursday and I’m so glad I did. Harriet Beecher Stowe’s `Uncle Tom’s Cabin’ was discussed. She may not have been everybody’s taste but I think she was a positive influence in the abolitionist cause. I know there are lots of Africans and African-Americans who will disagree with me but I believe she did what she thought was right according to her time.
Jane begins the lecture as usual with the writer’s background. Harriet was a Christian, teacher, and an active abolitionist in the 1850’s. She wrote `Uncle Tom’s Cabin’ to expose the reality of slavery and her belief that Christian love can overcome something as difficult as slavery. Today, many Afro-Americans believe Harriet’s book actually encouraged and popularized the stereotypes of Afro- American people. Personally speaking, I don’t believe Harriet had that intention in mind. Yes, the references to `mammy’ and `uncle Tom’ and other words are difficult to stomach and make you want to chuck away the book. Yet, it is important to remember Harriet’s book was written in a time when slavery was thriving.
Going to this lecture helped me reflect on my journey in the last few months. I don’t really want to talk about it in depth but to say I was volunteering at an outstanding establishment. At first everything was running smoothly and I was learning a lot from staff I was working under. However, as time went on the mood began to shift and I felt some of the staff less welcoming.
At first, I didn’t realise anything was wrong as there were so many other things going on in my life that I had become forgetful. You see my youngest had fallen ill and it was pretty scary time for me dealing with blood tests and doctor’s appointments. Thank God! Everything turned out fine with her and it was nothing too serious. Yet, at the same time some of the staff at this place began to exclude and ignore me. A surreal and weird situation for me to be in. From previous experience people who behave in this manner tend to be bullies who have many insecurities of their own. I always believe people who behave in this tyrant manner show up their true nature and what quality of person they are. I tried not to let their behaviour affect me but at times it was hard to deal with.
Looking back, perhaps I was a little naive going to such a place. I’m not an arrogant person and will admit when I am wrong. I know I have made plenty of mistakes in my time there, but in no way does it justify the childish bullying that I experienced. In such difficult circumstances I try to reflect upon what I could have done differently. I am still baffled by some of the staff's behaviour towards me. I will not say that all my experience was terrible there. I did meet some exceptional hardworking staff. People I learnt to respect and admire.
I realise in life there will always be someone who will judge, ridicule or make you out to be something you’re not which is ok. People are entitled to their opinions. I know who I am and what I am about. What I have decided is to take away the good from this experience and implement it in my next journey. I don’t like to reflect too much on the negative side of my experience as I believe it leads to nothing. So in the next month I will continue my filming project as planned.
Jane begins the lecture as usual with the writer’s background. Harriet was a Christian, teacher, and an active abolitionist in the 1850’s. She wrote `Uncle Tom’s Cabin’ to expose the reality of slavery and her belief that Christian love can overcome something as difficult as slavery. Today, many Afro-Americans believe Harriet’s book actually encouraged and popularized the stereotypes of Afro- American people. Personally speaking, I don’t believe Harriet had that intention in mind. Yes, the references to `mammy’ and `uncle Tom’ and other words are difficult to stomach and make you want to chuck away the book. Yet, it is important to remember Harriet’s book was written in a time when slavery was thriving.
Going to this lecture helped me reflect on my journey in the last few months. I don’t really want to talk about it in depth but to say I was volunteering at an outstanding establishment. At first everything was running smoothly and I was learning a lot from staff I was working under. However, as time went on the mood began to shift and I felt some of the staff less welcoming.
At first, I didn’t realise anything was wrong as there were so many other things going on in my life that I had become forgetful. You see my youngest had fallen ill and it was pretty scary time for me dealing with blood tests and doctor’s appointments. Thank God! Everything turned out fine with her and it was nothing too serious. Yet, at the same time some of the staff at this place began to exclude and ignore me. A surreal and weird situation for me to be in. From previous experience people who behave in this manner tend to be bullies who have many insecurities of their own. I always believe people who behave in this tyrant manner show up their true nature and what quality of person they are. I tried not to let their behaviour affect me but at times it was hard to deal with.
Looking back, perhaps I was a little naive going to such a place. I’m not an arrogant person and will admit when I am wrong. I know I have made plenty of mistakes in my time there, but in no way does it justify the childish bullying that I experienced. In such difficult circumstances I try to reflect upon what I could have done differently. I am still baffled by some of the staff's behaviour towards me. I will not say that all my experience was terrible there. I did meet some exceptional hardworking staff. People I learnt to respect and admire.
I realise in life there will always be someone who will judge, ridicule or make you out to be something you’re not which is ok. People are entitled to their opinions. I know who I am and what I am about. What I have decided is to take away the good from this experience and implement it in my next journey. I don’t like to reflect too much on the negative side of my experience as I believe it leads to nothing. So in the next month I will continue my filming project as planned.
Sunday, 10 October 2010
Teaching- Asian Writer’s Anthology, EDL and the one love festival.
Since the end of Ramadan I have become extremely busy teaching, studying and looking after the family. Having said that though, I did find time to write a funny short story for the Asian writer’s Anthology out next week.
Lately, I don’t have time for myself. Perhaps, it has to do with my workload but it can’t be helped at the moment. I started a three month teaching course in Derby-something I have to do. Trying to fulfil all roles mother, teacher, student, extended family member is difficult.It kind of saddens me to know I’m not writing for pleasure. I am trying to prioritise my time and get back to what I promised I wouldn’t let go of but it’s hard. Playing the juggling octopus does take its toll. What can you do? Most days I’m up at the crack of dawn and out before 7.30- it kills.
Since the English Defence League has made it's appearance this weekend, it has made me more determined to get back to my writing. In my opinion, this group is full of semi -literate thugs who go round scare mongering and making exaggerated claims about Muslims taking over Britain. A bit like reading a fantasy book!!!Totally far-fetched!!! I wish they would polish up on their English, English law and history before they go round making such nonsensical claims. I suppose standing on roof tops and chanting racist remarks is a good way to get the media’s attention. I know I shouldn’t judge but they infuriate me!
I’m glad to say the counter balance to the EDL coming to Leicester has been for me to take the kids and attend the one love festival at Humberstone Gate today. It was great joy to see so many different people attending the event. People smiling - full of love, compassion and understanding. I think I'm about to break out into a Bob Marley song!:-)
Lately, I don’t have time for myself. Perhaps, it has to do with my workload but it can’t be helped at the moment. I started a three month teaching course in Derby-something I have to do. Trying to fulfil all roles mother, teacher, student, extended family member is difficult.It kind of saddens me to know I’m not writing for pleasure. I am trying to prioritise my time and get back to what I promised I wouldn’t let go of but it’s hard. Playing the juggling octopus does take its toll. What can you do? Most days I’m up at the crack of dawn and out before 7.30- it kills.
Since the English Defence League has made it's appearance this weekend, it has made me more determined to get back to my writing. In my opinion, this group is full of semi -literate thugs who go round scare mongering and making exaggerated claims about Muslims taking over Britain. A bit like reading a fantasy book!!!Totally far-fetched!!! I wish they would polish up on their English, English law and history before they go round making such nonsensical claims. I suppose standing on roof tops and chanting racist remarks is a good way to get the media’s attention. I know I shouldn’t judge but they infuriate me!
I’m glad to say the counter balance to the EDL coming to Leicester has been for me to take the kids and attend the one love festival at Humberstone Gate today. It was great joy to see so many different people attending the event. People smiling - full of love, compassion and understanding. I think I'm about to break out into a Bob Marley song!:-)
Monday, 23 August 2010
Ramadan, 16 hours fasting, the floods in Pakistan and Niger
We are nearly half way through Ramadan- 16 hours of fasting and it’s getting better. I’m not feeling the thirst as I did at the beginning; perhaps it has to do with the flood images stuck in my head as a reminder. How can I complain when I have so much! I’m not the lecturing type, but the current situation in Pakistan makes you appreciate all that you have.
Someone I know who is on the ground with one of these charities has told me when the floods started many people were asleep, unaware of the danger and got swept away in the rising tide. It’s always the poor and less- fortunate that get hit the hardest. It was the same sadness I felt upon hearing about the drought in eastern Niger…young children malnourished. Especially, in this month, I’ve tried to increase my prayer supplications and donate more to charities. But, I can’t help feeling….will it ever be enough? The epidemic that will occur, deadly water borne diseases such as Cholera, diarrhoea will increase affecting not only the young but the old. The amount of displaced/homeless people will not only be in Pakistan but also Niger (as people move away from their homes looking for food) and other third world countries too. It kinda breaks your heart.
You do begin to despair about turning on the news, but what always takes me by surprise is when I see human kindness in abundance appearing from all corners of the world. Everybody trying to do their bit- be they Muslim or non-Muslim trying to help in these situations. That’s when you realise the world does care and people are important. Surely but slowly people do understand it’s not just a third world problem but everyone’s problem. That will be all I have to say on the subject for now but I will continue to pray for everyone in this blessed month.
Moving on to other topics. I have been writing and reading - working on a possible new screenplay project with a colleague and re-writing my children’s book. Will tell all in my next blog.
Someone I know who is on the ground with one of these charities has told me when the floods started many people were asleep, unaware of the danger and got swept away in the rising tide. It’s always the poor and less- fortunate that get hit the hardest. It was the same sadness I felt upon hearing about the drought in eastern Niger…young children malnourished. Especially, in this month, I’ve tried to increase my prayer supplications and donate more to charities. But, I can’t help feeling….will it ever be enough? The epidemic that will occur, deadly water borne diseases such as Cholera, diarrhoea will increase affecting not only the young but the old. The amount of displaced/homeless people will not only be in Pakistan but also Niger (as people move away from their homes looking for food) and other third world countries too. It kinda breaks your heart.
You do begin to despair about turning on the news, but what always takes me by surprise is when I see human kindness in abundance appearing from all corners of the world. Everybody trying to do their bit- be they Muslim or non-Muslim trying to help in these situations. That’s when you realise the world does care and people are important. Surely but slowly people do understand it’s not just a third world problem but everyone’s problem. That will be all I have to say on the subject for now but I will continue to pray for everyone in this blessed month.
Moving on to other topics. I have been writing and reading - working on a possible new screenplay project with a colleague and re-writing my children’s book. Will tell all in my next blog.
Thursday, 5 August 2010
The strange case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, Lyric Lounge and Mellow Baku.
August starts off with a bang for me! It has been a literature week all round! While my kids are away at their grandparents, I attended DR Jane Mackay Literature at lunchtime hour. She discussed Robert Louis Stevenson’s book ‘The strange case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. I am astounded by her in depth knowledge of the writer, she lectures for a solid hour using no notes or papers. It’s just amazing to watch her reel so many names and dates with no much as a hesitation. Did you know Robert Louis Stevenson wrote Dr Jekyll and My Hyde after he had a bad dream? He wrote 30,000 words (the whole book) in three days and rewrote the book again in another three days. So, in all he spent six days writing 60,000 words. Sheer genius! To top it all he was in chronic bad health!
After attending Dr Mackay’s lecture, I was in the mood for words and poetry. I attended Lyric Lounge held at the New Walk Museum. There were some brilliant performers, Jean Binta Breeze, word with Mark Gwyne Jones and my all-time favourite Mellow Baku. She has an amazing voice and a very talented woman. I t was breath taking to hear her sing and create a song in her workshop. Top class act!
After attending Dr Mackay’s lecture, I was in the mood for words and poetry. I attended Lyric Lounge held at the New Walk Museum. There were some brilliant performers, Jean Binta Breeze, word with Mark Gwyne Jones and my all-time favourite Mellow Baku. She has an amazing voice and a very talented woman. I t was breath taking to hear her sing and create a song in her workshop. Top class act!
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