Our character is defined by our words Different cultures have different languages. Subcultures have different dialects. This is as much true for social tribes as it is for race. You can tell which part of England a person is from by their use of local words. Just as, in social tribes, you can tell how … Continue reading language
Author: chrissiestable
a damp squib
A squib is a small explosive. A damp one is one that just splutters without the required fizz and bang. My partner is a Red Hot Rager. Like a firework his anger burns hot and then it’s done. He never holds resentments or keeps score. I am more the old Mosquito coil. I sit there … Continue reading a damp squib
the accidental athlete
As a young immigrant growing up in NZ in the 70s, it was a challenge for a non-athletic girl. I was uncoordinated; a bit unfit and not really interested in sport, either participating or watching – it didn’t make living in a sports obsessed country that comfortable. I swear most NZers are born with a … Continue reading the accidental athlete
to mourn
A couple of years ago, in the first lockdown. I passed a woman on the beach who was laying out the most beautiful arrangement of flowers in the sand. She stood for a few minutes and then silently turned and walked away. I knew I had witnessed a goodbye. Who, or what, I will never … Continue reading to mourn
a common thread
I am a knitter and come from a long line of knitters. My Paternal grandmother was the first to put knitting needles in my hand and teach me the basics – in the English style. Then Mum took over and taught me The Continental Style.. (Which to English knitters looks backwards, but to me is … Continue reading a common thread
shared paths
Freddie n Me This summer I became an amateur cyclist – I say amateur, because I have started at the very basic level. “Freddie” is a bright pink, non E bike, with a basket. I wear no lycra, and plan to scale no mountains and will generally use her to just get some exercise and … Continue reading shared paths
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As the years turn over, I normally write a Shit List for the year, and toss it into the dying embers of the Pizza Oven. Sending away all the crap that has come or hung around. It’s very cathartic – both the writing and the burning. It gets some of those circular thoughts out of … Continue reading 1 1 22
800 days
They say every journey starts with a single step Unbeknownst to me, 800 days ago I took that first step. I say unbeknownst because I didn’t actually choose Recovery, I kinda fell into it. As some of you know, my family and I had gone through a decade or so of back to back medical … Continue reading 800 days
#SelfCareSunday
As part of my Recovery journey, I recently started #SelfcareSunday. I take Sunday to sleep in, turn my ph to mute including staying off Social Media; and only check it every hour or so to make sure I haven’t missed any urgent messages. I read, meditate, walk, write, and often cook. Its just a day … Continue reading #SelfCareSunday
coming out of the shadows
The original blog that was born in a meeting; but was side-tracked by Hands… It doesn’t matter how or why, but when you come to the path of recovery from MH problems including addiction and depression, at some stage it feels like your old life was hazy, dark, and full of secrets. A life lived … Continue reading coming out of the shadows








