This is how we never met

I always enjoy a good WongFu Production, but this one I think is extra special; because it reminds me of how I might not have met my perfect little lady Anne. We met by chance, a very small one at that, which I won't go into. But I will say this, I was much much more slick than Ki Hong Lee here.

An old friend

An excerpt from one of my favourite childhood books, by my favourite author, Stephen King. This was sent to me from an old friend I had been trying to avoid, knowing it would be the only thing to win me over. I've grown to be quite anti-social as my years go on, but to describe how it is to spend time with a friend that you'd happily drown* with is impossible. The list grows shorter these days, my partner and few others - but they're quality; each of them.

*Read as lose site of auxiliary life distractions

Sunny side up

As a nurse, I occasionally come across people with one form of disability or another; and every time it is confirmed to me that they are the strongest people to live life. Never would I ever wish it upon any of my future children, but forever will I be amazed at their courage.

Over the years I've had a few jobs, most of them dealing with people; and so many times have I worked with fully-able people with such shitty dispositions. So it's always so unbelievably refreshing to meet anyone with a bright outlook on life, especially when that person has been burdened with a form of disability.

I'm not going to lie, I've got my own not-so-deep-seeded mean streak too, and at times I can be a horrible person to be around. But wouldn't it be great if we took page from those less fortunate? A message that passes through us frequently but leaves no trace. So maybe today, we should all be just a little bit nicer to the people around us. I'm sure they'd appreciate it.

Being a bloke

Testosterone. Forget that image in your head of irrational, quick tempered muscle-heads for a moment, and think of this - every man needs testosterone to be a happy, healthy man. Its associations with bumpy-faced teens and gym-junkies has left the average Joe underestimating their need for this hormone.

So what's it for?

• Sperm count - Looking to be a dad? It's not happening without a good count of testosterone. If you're having troubles conceiving, it's a good idea to get this checked
• Headspace - Feeling a bit blue or stressed lately? Lost some confidence at work or home? Just not been on the ball? Studies have shown the hormone can alleviate mild depression, and maximise cognitive ability
• Energy - If you often get to the end of the day exhausted, especially when your energy output has been mild, it could be a clue that your count is down. A good level of testosterone can also help with fat loss and increasing muscle mass (with diet and exercise)
• Libido - Not as randy as you once were? Could be yet another sign of a low count. Get it checked, and your heightened libido and hardened erections (and partner) will thank you

What can lower my count?

Unfortunately, almost everything in our daily lives is out to attack us. From the plastics in our water bottles, to our stressful jobs. Other T drainers include: stress; excess consumption of soy, processed foods, and alcohol; long cardio sessions, and age.

So how can I build it back up?

• Diet - you need cut out or cut back on the above listed foods. Other helpers in increasing your count include: zinc supplements or high zinc foods (oysters, beef and pine nuts); protein rich foods such as red meat; and cruciferous vegetable (broccoli and cauliflower) which aid in lowering estrogen and increasing testosterone
• Lifestyle - Exercise! But steer clear of those long cardio sessions, lift heavy! The 5x5 (5 reps of 5 sets of each exercise) is a great way to get started in increasing your testosterone, while burning away those funny fat man titties! And finally, sleep more. Get yourself a good mattress, forget your worries and doze off for a good eight hours. It gives your body time to de-stress, and start replacing those hormones in your body.

It is a lot of changes, but follow them as best you can and you'll be feeling like a man in no time. Stronger, happier and more confident! 

We do not die; we pass on.

 "When you leave, I will not cry for you; I will run to the strongest wind I can find and welcome you home."

 So many people are concerned about death. I always thought it was an old man's fear of an uncertain tomorrow, but lately I've found that it touches even the young. Everyone has their thoughts and theories, whether religious or not, but the truth simply is - we do not know. Honestly, I wouldn't have it any other way.

Good advice

"Never skimp on a proper mattress or a great pair of shoes. You spend your life in one or another." 

Sasha Roiz

A touch of wisdom

THIS BE THE VERSE

They fuck you up, your mum and dad.

  They may not mean to, but they do.

They fill you with the faults they had

  And add some extra, just for you.

But they were fucked up in their turn

  By fools in old-style hats and coats,

Who half the time were soppy-stern

  And half at one another's throats.

Man hands on misery to man.

  It deepens like a coastal shelf.

Get out as early as you can,

  And don't have any kids yourself.

Philip Larkin