Irrational Fears and Conscious Decisions.

It is strange, going about your daily business when you are suddenly struck with the realisation that you are afraid of something completely irrational.  Recently I realised that I have several strange and clearly irrational fears - yet I can't help it (they make me so anxious). 

So here are my top four irrational fears depicted through pictures and words. 

1. Taxidermy animals. 

I don't know what it is, but going to museums make me crazy nervous. My main fear in this area is of taxidermy animals, but can also extend to mannequins in museum like set-ups. 

2. Aquariums.

This was recently brought up again when I went to a plant and aquarium shop. I don't know what it is, but having those tanks full of fish, towering around me makes me feel on edge. 

I know it's silly. 

3. Puffy eyes. 

This is a recent one, but I have become somewhat afraid of getting something in my eyes and having them puff up so much that I can't see. 

4. The dark. 

I feel like this is a somewhat common one, but I am afraid of the dark. I guess it's less of a fear of the dark, but what may be in the dark. Thankfully this fear has become less intense as I have gotten older and is something I am working on. 

I know, I know. I am odd and probably a little crazy, but I think it's good to remember that we all experience things differently and have different ways of viewing moments and situations - something I am trying to be more conscious of.  Because you never know what someone is going through, perhaps they have severe anxiety, maybe they are dealing with lots of stuff at home, perhaps they are absolutely terrified of spiders or have problems with trusting people.  What i'm trying to get at, is that we should be mindful of others and be respectful of where people are at, even when it's hard to understand.  

Oh! And remember, that going to the museum isn't everyone's idea of a 'fun day'. 

☼

My (late) Mid-Week Refreshment Update.

Mid-week (well a day late) and I am still on a creative roll! 

Day 1 consisted of blog writing, cooking, reading Kinfolk and altering one of my Nana's old summer dresses (I am seriously so flopping happy with it!).

Day 2 was mainly filled with book reading and daydreaming (what I am considering part of my restorative process).

Day 3 was a brilliant day. Myself, Lesley and Adam went on a spontaneous road trip to the absolutely beautiful Kondalilla Falls in Montville. The day was incredibly perfect (well my kind of perfect) -  rain, fog and a glorious cool breeze. I adore all of these elements and have to say that they constitute my ideal/perfect weather/day. 

We made our way to Maleny, where we stopped to enjoy a brisk picnic in the clouds and fog.  The moment we stepped out of the car we were blasted with wind and rain. After laying down a rug we sat and enjoyed the treats we had bought for the picnic... this soon became like a game as we battled the wind and rain to quickly eat our snacks (while they were still in tact and not completely soggy).  After our short break we continued on to what we thought was Kondalilla National Park, although ended up getting a bit lost (thanks google maps... NOT).  But eventually, we found it!

From the car park we organised our stuff, making sure we left our spare/dry clothes behind and then trekked in the rain to the Falls.   

With the sound of the water falls crashing and the rain splashing on the ground, we entered the open area with the swimming hole. I had never seen it like this before - the water was so high up and flowing faster than I had ever seen it before, the trees were rich with colour and the sky was filled with low, fast moving cloud. It was a truly beautiful sight. 

We spent a couple of hours relaxing, swimming and enjoying the view and the rain before getting dry and heading back to the car. From there we drove to the centre of town, where we ended up at same restaurant that we happened upon a year ago (which also happened to be a very rainy day). 

It felt right. The three of us sat in that same restaurant, getting warm and dry, and filling our bellies with delicious food. 

All in all it was such a glorious day and I am so glad that it happend. 

#myhandinstrangersgardens

A day like this makes me excited for winter! 

This was the perfect way to spend my last wednesday before going back to University next week. 

Which brings us to today. 

Day 4 was spent mostly looking out the window, enjoying the rain and the breeze. 

But was also spent editing the footage I took yesterday and made it into a film! Yayayay. 

So, here it is! 

Creating, Rearranging and Restoring: my week of refreshment

Here I am, sitting in my dark, cool room (a little snuffly, as I am getting over the flu) feeling overwhelming refreshed. It's like when you are going on a hike to a swimming hole - the hike is excruciatingly difficult, the heat from the sun is beating down on your skin, droplets of sweat form on your brow and the desire to arrive at the swimming hole deepens. But then you arrive and jump into the water - it is tremendously refreshing and you forget all of the struggle and pain you experienced leading up to this moment. 

This is exactly how my year has felt so far (well at least the bit where I feel like i've been hiking for days and not yet reached my desired destination). - Lately I have been feeling tiresome of looking for a job and not succeeding, feeling like I should create something and then not, because I can't think of anything to do/not wanting to force it (i've been going through a bit of a creative drought) and wanting to go on adventures but haven't, due to my laziness and commitment to being a top member of the 'Stay at Home Club'.  But I think the time has come for a season refreshment - a refreshment of hope, a refreshment of faith, a refreshment of creativity and a refreshment of adventure. 

This past month I feel like I have gained a new excitement for life - I have been checking my phone less, logging on to Flickr less (as I would usually look at other's work for hours upon hours and convince myself that I was gaining "inspiration"... loljks I was procrastinating life), I have been cherishing time with friends more, driving with the windows down and letting the fresh air fill my lungs, taking time to look at the sky and appreciating the vast majesty of it all and am trying to do more creative things while I have a few weeks left of freedom before university starts. 

So, I am declaring this week a week of creating, rearranging and restoring! 

This week I am going to do as much as I can to appreciate life in it's fullest and take advantage of the time I have (rather than lay in my bed and watch vlogs and read other's blogs) AND, I am going to bring you with me. So strap yourself in and get ready for a week of potential excitement! 

Thank You, September.

Hello wonderful people. I am sorry for my absence for the past few weeks. I will be trying to blog more often, now that things have slowed down.  But I dare say, September has been a wonderful month. So here is a long post, full of photos of happy moments from this month. 

First off, it was a month of assignments - it felt like once I had finished one, I had to start the next. One after the other, after the other. So on an so forth. BUT it was okay, because this month was evenly balanced with happy, glorious moments. 

At the beginning of this month, two of my dear friends got married. The bridal shower was super wonderful. With flowers, tea, bunting, sweets and treats, Lesley's lemon meringue pie, Buddy Holly classics, many laughs and sweet friends, it was a wonderful time. 

Not long after, was the wedding! Such a beautiful day, full of joy, sunshine, tons of laughs, dancing and wonderful friends. The wedding was at Mt. Pleasant (yep, that's it's actual name - and boy, does it deserve it!).  The ceremony was so beautiful.  When my friend walked down the isle, she looked so beautiful and happy. I had to hold back the tears. After a few words, everyone sang a few worship songs (highly appropriate, considering the couple met on the worship team).  The music itself was beautiful - the voices of the guests filling the room, the groomsmen playing guitars and the groom playing the Cajon, it was perfect. (Again, I was holding back tears). 

Introducing to the world - Mr. and Mrs. Porter! Oh Happy Day ♥

The next while was filled with assignments and small, odd jobs. Although I did have one afternoon where I stopped, listened to music and watched the sunset. It just so happened to be perfect. I couldn't help but take photos of the sunset ( I ended up taking at least 45 photos, it was just that beautiful). 

The next week, the majority of my assessment was over and things were starting to dwindle down (in the uni sense).  

I had originally planned to shoot at the Queensland Museum, with exact photo in mind. On a day off (while hanging out with Sav) we decided to scout the location for the exact spot where I would photography - only to find that they had removed the exhibit that I had planned on shooting in.  So, we decided to spend the afternoon in the museum, perusing the animals. I now know, that my fear of taxidermy isn't just in my head. I actually have a fear of taxidermy animals. I am unsure whether this is rational or irrational. In any case, it is real. 

(I did enjoy the butterflies quite a bit, though). 

Next was the RAW showcase, something I had been asked to be a part of.  It was where a bunch of local artists, performers and musicians showcased their work. It was definitely an experience. Getting ready for it was rather stressful, as I had all of my assignments due over that time.  But once the assignments were over, it was exciting to see it all coming together. I had never exhibited my work, let along printed it out - so this was all brilliant. (So is having physical copies of your work. It just feels so much more special. I recommend doing it!).  Overall, I was rather happy. I sold a few small prints, got enquiries about future works and handed out a ton of business cards! Wooooooooooo (If you would like to purchase any of my prints, or enquire about any of my work/services you can email me at genevieve.althea@yahoo.com.au).

(Photos courtesy of Emily Nelson) 

Finally, was Riverfire. 

Being as blessed as we are, living in the house we are living in - we could see the fire works from our house. It was spectacular. 

The one thing I have gotten out of this month is that we don't spend enough time enjoying the smaller things in life, enjoying the special moments, the outdoors, and life itself. 

☼

Marshmallow

Yesterday, my beautiful friend Lesley had a craft and de-stash sale at her house. It was a lovely day. We sold quite a few items, had homemade gyoza, played totem tennis, wore fluro snap backs (don't ask), went through old books and listened to good music. But, there was other thing that made the day great... Lesley's mouse, Marshmallow. SO CUTE! 
I couldn't help but take a few photos. 

(Sav put her on my head and took my camera. Although I dare say, I like this photo). 

I hope you are all well and have a wonderful week. 
☼

t-u-m-b-l-r

My Tumblr ☼✌

Some things You should know about me...

Hello there! 

I feel like I haven't posted in so long. I am sorry :( 

I hope to write a few more posts soon. 

Well I have been thinking, since we have spent so much time together (just skimming the surface), I thought it would be nice for you to know a little about me, in list form! How exciting!? 

- First of all, I am a music junkie. I know most people say "music is my life" *said in mocking popular girl voice* BUT SERIOUSLY, music has been a flopping big part of my life!

For starters, both of my parents are music teachers.  My beautiful mum is a phenomenal singer, occasionally plays flute and piano (quite well), is currently learning cello, and dabbles at a few other instruments (including guitar, tenor horn and a few others). And my Father... Well... Dad is a music mastermind. Not even kidding! He has his AMus in piano and studied music therapy (and teaching) at university. If you name a song, generally (if he knows it) he can play it. Has an intense knowledge of music theory (is currently designing a program to teach children beginning music theory) and can also sing. He is incredibly smart, and not just at music.  

So, our house is a constant buzz of music and sound.  There is hardly ever a time when there isn't music, or at least some sound filling the house. During school I was in several (6) bands (classical, concert, jazz, brass bands and choir) and did private lessons and music theory and was music captain... TWICE.  

In my down time, I listen to music. On the bus, I listen to music. When I walk/jog anywhere, I listen to music. When I have friend's over, we listen to, and share music. Oh! and I love finding new music! [so if you know any good music, please send it my way!]. And now, I am sining for/with Wafia (and we have a few gigs coming up, which I will post about. So keep an eye out!). Which is crazy and I never thought would happen to me! Such an honour.  But as you can see, "music is my life". So yup.   

- You may have seen, that photography is also a pretty big thing for me. 

You can ch-ch-check out ma stuff here! 

Over the past little while, looking back, I can see how much i've grown. And boy! Does that excite me! I just wanted to give a quick shout out to my main man, Flickr.  But honestly, Flickr has done so much for me, for my work (and the standard I hold it at - "Flickr standard"), for my confidence in my work, and for the people I have connected ("met") with. So many beautiful people from all over the world. Like a community of creatives!   

I'm excited to see what photography holds for me in the future. 

- I have recently discovered that brownies are the way to my heart... Boys. Keep that in mind ;) 

But really. The moment I discovered how to make 'brownie in a mug' was a joyous, yet dark moment. 

Even still, I do love me a good brownie! 

- I have a deep love for swings! Yep, swings. 

I hate that going on swings as an adult is looked down on.  I understand that me being in a playground may look funny, and all you observers suspect i'm some teen wanting to cause a ruckus.  But nope. I just want to swing! I mean, c'mon! How glorious is the feeling of being on a swing!? (If you can't remember, go try it again!)

When I move into my own home, one of the first things i'm doing is putting in a swing. I don't care if I have to make a frame myself, or climb a tree to put it there.  It WILL happen! Future husband, if you're reading this, you have been warned!

- Like most girls, I fantasise about things - my wedding, what it's going to be like when i'm married etc. But unlike most girls, I fantasise about the set up - how things will look, like what bunting, type of fairy lights, trees/plants and furnishings are going to be at these moments in my life. 

I want wooden pallet everything! Or at least distressed/worn wood things - walls, tables etc. I imagine most things in my future home will be found/refurbished objects... AH MAN! Makes me so excited thinking about it! 

- Straight up, I am super clutsy/clumsy. (Check this photo for evidence). 

- I watch waaaay too much useless day-time tv.

- I am a sucker for kids movies. If you look at our dvd shelves, you will see that the majority of dvd's that we have are children's movies. Or Star Wars (yeah, ima Star Wars fan... deal with it!).  But also, that could be because I am a wuss when it comes to watching TV and movies, especially at the cinema.  

- I always look at things and think "I could make that", but usually, the truth is - that never happens. 

- I am kind of scared of fish. They are yuck! nuffsaid. 

- I am notorious for being late to events. Family trait, i'm afraid.  

- Writing letters is ma thang! Love it. Love it so much :) I have several pen pals, and love to keep in touch with them strictly via snail mail (even though I do have them on Facebook also).  But i would rather find thing out in a letter, then online. More personal. 

Also, *sneaky insight* - I will be creating a photo to do with that, soon! 

- I don't always have dreams, but when I do, they usually feel super real (some more then others) and they really get me thinking about things and life... Okay. That all sounded better in my head. haha 

- I have recently worked out what my coping mechanisms are, thanks to uni. Rather interesting to know. 

- I take pleasure in the 'small things'. I even wrote a blog post about it!

- Sometimes when talking to my Flickr friends (which happens quite a lot), I feel like i'm in a different world.  They are all so far away, sometimes it doesn't feel real. But sometimes I feel like i'm the one far away - far away from "reality" and the world around me.  But i'm not that bad, really.  

- If you haven't noticed, my favourite flower is the Daisy! I think it is so happy and pretty. In a way, it is simple, yet is so bright.  

For my 18th birthday, my Dad bought me a daisy plant. It is one of my favourite possessions (apart from my camera) and brings me so much joy - especially when it blooms.  

- My current location of choice would have to be Canada! I long to go there. 

I plan to go on study exchange there, or at least visit for some time. (and go to The US to meet some of my Flickr friends! Which is nuts and excited me beyond belief). I think it would be all so magical! Also, I am desperate to see the Aurora, or Northern Lights. I hear it is one of the most spectacular natural things you can ever see. Eeeeeeeeeee! *breaths* 

... Gee! I cannot wait for the day I see it! 

- I LOVE hearing stories. 

... I am becoming a social worker, for goodness sake! 

I think that stories are where it's at.  Stories have the power to change, the power to unite and the power to gather. Which makes me happy! 

I am always up for story time :) 

And finally - 

- Sometimes I dream about what the future will be like. And it looks pretty darn good from where i'm standing :) 

I am super excited for all the things to come! 

Well, that's all for now.  I hope that didn't bore you, and hopefully it all makes sense. 

If there is anything you want to ask me, want to know, want to tell me about, or just want a chat, then you can email me at - genevieve.althea@yahoo.com.au

You are all wonderful and make me happy! Thank you, again! 

☼

What I am listening to: Bon Iver. His whole Bon Iver album.  Perfect for late nights and the early hours of the morning ♥

Autumn Dance.

14.52. Autumn Dance, a photo by Child.Like.Mind on Flickr.

On the weekend Wafia, Savannah and myself went to the cold and rainy Toowoomba for an intimate gig (you can see the photos on my instagram). It was quite a lovely day. 

I think that Toowoomba is one of my favourite places to go, especially in Autumn.  Usually I love to go there because most of my extended family live there, which is wonderful.  But I also love going there because the trees in Toowoomba are absolutely stunning! 

I may not have shown it here, but I happen to have a slight obsession with trees.  

I long to have a house with a ginormous tree in the backyard.  Imagine - sitting under the tree, having a picnic with your (future) husband (or wife),  reading a book, or water colouring and listening to music.  Ah, so perfect!

Toowoomba would be the only place in Queensland (that I know of) where the leaves on the trees change colours in Autumn.  The yellows, oranges, reds and browns.  So incredibly beautiful. 

Wafia, a photo by Child.Like.Mind on Flickr.

Before the Toowoomba gig, the three of us spent the day roaming the streets and exploring Queens Park. (the most beautiful trees!).

Both the girls modelled for me, which made me very happy since they are both so beautiful (as you can see from the photos). 

Beautiful Savannah , a photo by Child.Like.Mind on Flickr.

In other news, this July I am going to see James Blake at the Sydney Opera House! Jaaaaammmesssssss Blaaaaaaaake! ♥

The plan is to road trip to Sydney with four of my wonderful friends, who happen to be just as keen to see James Blake as I am.  I will make sure to write about this trip when I get back!

Also, we have planned to meet up with some of the amazing Sydney Flickr photographers! (I will reveal who they are closer to the time). But I am very, very excited! I mean, c'mon! James Blake AND new Flickr friends! I think  yes!

Also, I am liking how my Tumblr looks lately. Too many beautiful photos to handle.

Facebook Page | 52 Week Blog | Tumblr

What I am listening to: Stay - (Rihanna) Branchez-Bootleg Remix. Don't judge me. This is good a good remix. Deal with it. 

Well, I hope you all have a wonderful week. ☼