Tuesday 29 June 2010

WEDNESDAY 30th JUNE 2010 08:00(BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (30.6.40)
In the English Channel... The German forces begin to occupy the Channel Islands.

In Bucharest... The Romanian government concedes to Soviet territorial demands presented the previous day, surrendering Bessarabia.

In the United States... In the Republican Party convention at Philadelphia Wendell Willkie is selected as the presidential candidate after the sixth ballot by a margin of 654 to 318 over Senator Taft. The convention is overwhelmingly in favour of a policy of nonintervention in the war.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Packed programme! Blogging, a CD hypnosis session to record, get stuff in the post, stationery and prep for PRONET to organize, and hopefully snatch some time for meditation and some self-indulgence before heading out to the "other job"

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Inner conviction is a far greater source of power than outer approval.

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
I still haven't trimmed my eyebrows!

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Do you really want/need to do this?

TODAY'S ONELINER
A bus is a vehicle that runs twice as fast when you are after it as when you are in it. : D

GARY'S 100 CLASSIC ALBUMS YOU MUST OWN No.73
MOTORHEAD - Orgasmatron (1986)
Often overlooked, it's one of the band's best.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EZ9KHbU4QxI

TRIVIA
Breathing the air in Mumbai, India for just ONE DAY, is equivalent to smoking 2.5 packs of cigarettes.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Fore as long as I believe in it I'll keep on doing it!

Monday 28 June 2010

TUESDAY 29th JUNE 2010 08:15(BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (29.6.40)
In Berlin... The German government publishes the "White Book" which contains details of Allied plans to intervene in the Low Countries.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
A day dedicated to
PRONET prep. Some client follow up also, and a long-overdue eyebrow trim!

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Even on the dullest of days, act as if the unexpected will show up.

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Time to walk the talk!

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
If you're going to think anyway, why not think happy?

TODAY'S ONELINER
Whoever coined the phrase "Quiet as a mouse" has never stepped on one. : D

GARY'S 100 CLASSIC ALBUMS YOU MUST OWN No.72
MOTORHEAD - Ace of Spades (1980)
Another metalhead must-own!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_4y2nzXNjP4

TRIVIA
An octopus can squeeze through a hole the size of a 10p coin. It is also the Earth's most intelligent invertebrate.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
I will feel the boredom and look for passion anyway!





Sunday 27 June 2010

MONDAY 28th JUNE 2010 07:50(BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (28.6.40)
In London... General de Gaulle is recognized by the British government as "Leader of All Free Frenchmen."

In Libya... Marshal Balbo, Italian Governor and Commander in Chief in Libya, is killed by friendly antiaircraft fire while flying over Tobruk during a British air raid. Marshal Graziani is appointed to replace him.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Clients prep and follow-up, blogging and networking. Looking forward to starting T'ai Chi today!

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Every morning is a fresh start and new beginning.

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Without adversity there is no development.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Where would you be if you would just be?

TODAY'S ONELINER
Hallmark Card: "I'm so miserable without you, it's almost like you're still here." : D

GARY'S 100 CLASSIC ALBUMS YOU MUST OWN No.71
METALLICA - Metallica [The Black Album](1991)
A metalhead's must-own, this band's MAGNUM OPUS
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K2jfV1DzcuQ

TRIVIA
A tiger's tongue is so rough it can lick the paint off of a wall.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Today I will relish my infinite capacity to create.

SUNDAY 27th JUNE 2010 10:00(BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (27.6.40)
In Washington... A confidential meeting is held between British and Australian representatives and the United States Secretary of State Cordell Hull. The British and Australians ask for help in standing up to Japan. They wish the USA to take economic measures or to move more units of the fleet to Malaysian and Philippine waters or to offer to mediate between China and Japan. Hull is unable to agree to any of these moves which would involve a more active foreign policy than the American public is prepared to contemplate at this time.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
A combination of blogging, "me time", domestic stuff and "marital time". Meanwhile the garden flora runs rampant and uncontrolled outside, but it's the lowest priority.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Inspiration is available to anyone who gives it the space to enter.

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Sometimes, unless you are at the highest level of awareness, mood is a thing beyond your control or explanation. So also is revelation.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
If you want your life to be different, are you making enough space for a difference to happen?

TODAY'S ONELINER
Knowledge is power, and power corrupts. So study hard and be evil : D

GARY'S 100 CLASSIC ALBUMS YOU MUST OWN No.70
MADONNA - Ray of Light (1998)
A heavily New Age-influenced gem that stands head-and-shoulders above her surrounding discography. An inexplicable surge of inspiration.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x3ov9USxVxY

TRIVIA
In Japan they have square watermelons. They do this by growing them inside square glass cases. That way they can fit easily into a refrigerator, and you can stack things on them. However they are more than FIVE TIMES the price of ordinary watermelons.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
I know my worth because my heart tells me so.

Saturday 26 June 2010

SATURDAY 26th JUNE 2010 09:35(BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (26.6.40)
In Bucharest... The Soviets present an ultimatum to Romania demanding the cession of territory in Bessarabia and Northern Bukovina. Germany reluctantly intervenes to help persuade the Romanians to comply.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Contemplation and clearing up led onto blogging and "marital time" will precede going off to the "other job"

TODAY'S THOUGHT
There is nothing so potentially self-destructive as an untrained mind.

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Nothing like sharing a curry, a beer and a Hendrix DVD with your son to cure an attack of the negatives! A further bout of contemplation in the morning and a modified mental strategy should make me better prepared for the "other job" today.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
After your latest mistake, are you beating yourself up or formulating the next plan?

TODAY'S ONELINER
A bargain is something you don't need at a price you can't resist : D

GARY'S 100 CLASSIC ALBUMS YOU MUST OWN No.69
MADONNA - True Blue
Hot on the heels of her best work, this is nearly as good.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=odcLa4qj2hs

TRIVIA
The average office desk has 400 TIMES more bacteria than a toilet.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Aha! Here's an opportunity for....

Thursday 24 June 2010

FRIDAY 25th JUNE 2010 08:30(BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (25.6.40)
In French Indochina... The Japanese put pressure on the Vichy French authorities in Indochina to block the transit of supplies to the Chinese Nationalists. They wish the rail line into China closed and a Japanese mission to be allowed in to inspect this.

In the United States... New considerably increased taxes are introduced which bring an additional 2,200,000 into the tax roll who have never formerly paid income tax. These increases of course reflect the armament expenditure.

On the Western Front... The Franco-German armistice comes into force. 60% of France, including the channel and Atlantic coast, the north and half of central France is to remain under German military occupation, the French to pay occupation costs. The remaining 40%, mainly south-east France and the overseas colonies, including the Mediterranean coast, to remain unoccupied and self-governed under the dictatorship of Marshal Petain, whose government is based at Vichy. French loyalties are therefore divided between supporters of the armstice and Petain, and the resistance led by De Gaulle.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Much blogging and PRONET visitor day promotion in the morning, "other job" noon-evening, quality time with son later evening.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Hope, far from being the vague unlikelihood of daily conversation, is the invincible eternal spirit that ultimately conquers all injustice.

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Learned much in the past couple of days about hasty conclusions and open-mindedness, and the need to be able to summon calm at will.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
What has fear and anger cost you?

TODAY'S ONELINER
Failure is not an option! It comes bundled with the software : D (thanks @Tattooed Mummy for this gag!)

GARY'S 100 CLASSIC ALBUMS YOU MUST OWN No.68
MADONNA - Like A Virgin
Despite an extensive back-catalogue of creativity, she has never bettered this sophomore pop masterpiece
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VgkOCJ9PGkk

TRIVIA
"Nintendo" is Japanese for "Leave luck to Heaven".

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Peace within is more powerful than anger.

Tuesday 22 June 2010

WEDNESDAY 23rd JUNE 2010 08:10(BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (23.6.40)
In France... Pierre Laval is appointed Deputy Premier by Marshal Petain.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
In a sudden flurry of client consultations and other business related matters, the house/garden is getting kinda neglected - and will continue to be! Client follow up, seminar rehearsal, maybe laundry, then off to the "other job".

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Imagine everyone you see is you living another life - you would have to be careful, what you do to them you are doing to you.

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
The ones who never returned my love, I've decided that it's ok to not miss them any longer. Nothing owed, nothing offered.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Will lamenting the first half aid you in the second?

TODAY'S ONELINER
With sufficient thrust, pigs fly just fine! :D

GARY'S 100 CLASSIC ALBUMS YOU MUST OWN No.67
LED ZEPPELIN - Physical Graffiti (1975)
It's an album of two discs, Brian! Six epics on one disc and an enjoyable frothier collection in the second.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rC0nF9_bfiI

TRIVIA
The dot over the letter "i" is called a "tittle".

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
I will calm myself and experience the peace within.

Monday 21 June 2010

TUESDAY 22nd JUNE 2010 07:55(BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (22.6.40)
In Occupied France... General Huntziger, who leads the French delegation, signs the armistice with Germany in the Compiegne railroad carriage specially taken out of its museum. All French forces surrender on General Weygand's order.

In Riga... Latvia meets Soviet demands for a new government and territorial adjustments.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Seminar prep, client consultation...and ironing!

TODAY'S THOUGHT
In your life, be true to your own truth.

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
I am as happy as my last thought.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Are you taking charge of your life, or is life in charge of you?

TODAY'S ONELINER
You are such a good friend that if we were on a sinking ship together and there was only one life jacket... I'd miss you heaps and think of you often. : D

GARY'S 100 CLASSIC ALBUMS YOU MUST OWN No.66
LED ZEPPELIN - Led Zeppelin IV (1971)
Up there as one of the greatest albums of all time.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WbrjRKB586s

TRIVIA
W is the only letter in the English alphabet that has more than one syllable.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Waiting is my opportunity for....

Sunday 20 June 2010

MONDAY 21st JUNE (Summer Solstice) 08:05(BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (20.6.40)
On the Western Front... There are Italian attacks in some of the Alpine passes which are easily beaten off despite the weakness of the French forces which are left in these areas.

In Occupied France... The German armistice terms are given to the French delegation. The French representatives are allowed to consult briefly with their government.

In London... Henry Tizard resigns as chief scientific advisor to the Prime Minister due to his advice being ignored. He is replaced by Lord Cherwell. British Intelligence discover the existence of the German Knickebein navigational radio system and Churchill orders countermeasures.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Client consultation, business meeting, seminar prep, Reiki class.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Every failure is a rung on the ladder of success.

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Every day my mental focus strengthens - I'm learning to re-frame petty frustration.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Which do you gaze at, the wondrous work of art before you, or its' cracks?

TODAY'S ONELINER
You're never too old to something stupid : D

GARY'S 100 CLASSIC ALBUMS YOU MUST OWN No.65
LED ZEPPELIN - Led Zeppelin II (1969)
One of the greatest and earliest hard rock albums - a masterpiece!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K_-k8A9aAlE

TRIVIA
The Naked Mole Rat, which lives in the Horn of Africa, is immune to cancer.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Every thought is a brick in my palace or my prison.

Saturday 19 June 2010

SUNDAY 20th JUNE 2010 07:40(BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (20.6.40)
On the Western Front... Lyons and Vichy are captured.

In the Norwegian Sea... The German battle cruiser Gneisenau is seriously damaged in a torpedo attack by the British submarine Clyde off Trondheim.

In France... The French delegation sets out for the armistice talks which are to be held at Compiegne in the same railroad carriage and on the same site as the negotiations which ended World War I.

In Washington... President Roosevelt strengthens his Cabinet by bringing in two prominent Republicans. Henry Stimson becomes Secretary for War and Frank Knox becomes Secretary for the Navy. Stimson is anti-isolationist and will be a champion of aiding Britain.

In Tallin... Estonia meets Soviet demands for a new government and territorial adjustments.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
I have a talk for Thursday to prep, will be working on it flat out between domestic stuff.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Worry like paying attention to the news of a runaway lion in your area when your pots are about to boil over in your kitchen.

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Sharply reminded yesterday that my attention requires my attention!

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Right now is an opportunity for....?

TODAY'S ONELINER
I should've known it wasn't going to work out. After all, I'm a Sagittarius and she's a complete bitch. : D

GARY'S 100 CLASSIC ALBUMS YOU MUST OWN No.64
L7 - Smell The Magic
If not familiar with the Grunge sub-genre of Riot-Grrrl, start with this excellent debut from the queens of grunge-feminism
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YBAbH_ZCzN0

TRIVIA
Males can be sexually stimulated and orgasm speeded up and intensified by pressing two fingers hard on the perineum. (The area between the scrotum and the anus). This is also thought to be the location of the Base Chakra or "Muladhara"

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
I will NOT take ownership of the opinion of others, and will instead cherish the guidance of my intuition.


Thursday 17 June 2010

FRIDAY 18th JUNE 2010 07:50(BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (18.6.40)
On the Western Front... The 7th Panzer Division takes Cherbourg, 5th Panzer Division occupies Brest. Among other towns captured are Le Mans, Briare, Le Creusot, Belfort, Dijon and Colmar.

Over Germany... The RAF bomb Hamburg and Bremen.

From London... General de Gaulle, as yet comparatively unknown to the majority of his countrymen, makes a radio address urging the French to fight on, saying that only a battle and not the whole war has been lost.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Blogging, networking and domestic. Business meeting at 2pm.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
All the answers lie within. The outside is only its reflection.

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Currently learning to stand firm on principle without being harsh. I have been particularly pleased how I have not responded to harshness with harshness. This is a major breakthrough for me, and essential development as a therapist.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
What would happen if you stopped blaming and chose to accept full responsibility for your life?

TODAY'S ONELINER
Hospitality is making your guests feel like they're at home, even if you wish they were. : D

GARY'S 100 CLASSIC ALBUMS YOU MUST OWN No.63
KRAFTWERK - The Man-Machine (1978)
Oddly compelling, the thinking man's techno.

TRIVIA
Mosquitoes find victims by the smell of the Carbon Dioxide they breathe out, and home in on body heat.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Fear is only another form of excitement - it cannot stand in my way.

THURSDAY 17th JUNE 2010 12:45(BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (17.6.40)
In Britain... Churchill broadcasts saying that the Battle of France is over and that the Battle of Britain is about to begin. His message is "Let us so bear ourselves that, if the British Empire and Commonwealth last for a thousand years, men will still say, This was their finest hour."

In France... The Petain Cabinet takes office. Weygand is Minister of Defence. They announce that they are asking Germany for armistice terms.

On the Western Front... Pontarlier, almost on the Swiss border, is reached by Guderian's forces. Other units have nearly reached the Loire and still more are advancing in Brittany and Normandy.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
After networking and shopping this morning, blogging networking and follow-up before domestic stuff after teatime.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
In the event of a setback, a slight or a frustration, your choice is between mourning it or modifying the plan.

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Putting my new mental strategies to the test I seem to have scored half-marks. Not bad for a beginner!

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
In what do you hope?

TODAY'S ONELINER
When a dominatrix retires, do you organize a whip-round? : D

GARY'S 100 CLASSIC ALBUMS YOU MUST OWN No.62
KING'S X - Gretchen Goes To Nebraska (1989)
One of the greatest prog metal albums ever recorded.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J2SYPzKzD94

TRIVIA
The voice actor/actress of Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse were actually married in real life.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Today I will take time to be still and quiet and listen to the promptings of my inner self.


Tuesday 15 June 2010

WEDNESDAY 16th JUNE 2010 07:55(BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (16.6.40)
In France... Reynaud has lost the support of his Cabinet and resigns. Petain is chosen to replace him.

In London... France asks Britain to be released from the obligation not to make a separate peace. In return the British make an offer to establish a state of union between the two countries, but this rather wild scheme is rejected by the French.

On the Western Front... Dijon is taken and to the east Guderian's units have reached the Saone. The Maginot Line is breached near Colmar in Alsace. On the Channel coast there are more evacuations. From St. Malo during the next two days 21,474 Allied troops are taken off and from Brest 32,584. The evacuations from St. Nazaire and Nantes take three days and carry 57,235 away but over 3000 are lost when the Lancastria is sunk by German bombers.

In Vilnius... A new, pro-Soviet, government is installed in Lithuania.

From Moscow... Similar demands are made of Estonia and Latvia.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Back at the keyboard after a WHOLE DAY away - most unusual. Refreshed and re-energised, lotsa people to contact and things to blog.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
You are offered an infinity of ideas. Choose those that fit best and where none do, make your own!

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
I see my refined approach to life making a difference

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Victim, Sinner, Observer, Creator - which are you?

TODAY'S ONELINER
I discovered I scream the same way whether I'm about to be devoured by a great white shark or if a piece of seaweed touches my foot.

GARY'S 100 CLASSIC ALBUMS YOU MUST OWN No.61
JUDAS PRIEST - Screaming For Vengeance (1982)
For my money the best album from this iconic metal outfit.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XWhInhE6emE

TRIVIA
The phrases "break the ice" "forever and a day" "It was Greek to me" "in a pickle" "Knock Knock! Who's there?" and "wild-goose chase" were all invented by William Shakespeare.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Wherever I am today, by word, thought and deed I will make a difference.

Sunday 13 June 2010

MONDAY 14th JUNE 2010 08:00(BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (14.6.40)
On the Western Front... Paris falls to the Germans. New instructions are issued to the German armies. While most of the armored forces are to continue their advance into the center of the country, Guderian's two corps are to swing east to cut off any attempt by the Maginot garrisons to retreat. Army Group C, General Leeb, attacks and breaks through the Maginot defenses in some places.

In the Mediterranean... A force of French cruisers and destroyers shells the Italian ports of Genoa and Vado.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Now thoroughly re-centred, tidying, planning and organizing for the future. Reiki class in the evening.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
As you think, so shall it be.

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Falling down makes me stronger, so long as I keep getting up.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
How are you going to make best use of your talents while you still can?

TODAY'S ONELINER
My opinions may have changed, but not the fact that I am right. : D

GARY'S 100 CLASSIC ALBUMS YOU MUST OWN No.60
JEFFERSON STARSHIP - Modern Times
A scandalously obscure AOR masterpiece, with some superlative guitar.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7opZ59dzqhw

TRIVIA
Comic actor Jack Black's mother worked on the Hubble Space Telescope.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Today I will fulfil to the utmost my life purpose in even the most mundane task.

Saturday 12 June 2010

SUNDAY 13th JUNE 2010 07:30 (BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (13.6.40)
On the Western Front... The French forces west of Paris are now retreating to the Loire. The British decide to abandon attempts to rebuild a BEF in France and begin to evacuate the British and Canadian troops which still remain in the country.

In Washington... Roosevelt signs a new $1,300,000,000 Navy bill providing for much extra construction. Meanwhile, in response to Churchill's pleas in his telegrams to President Roosevelt, surplus stocks of artillery weapons and rifles have been assembled from US government stores. The first shipment now leaves the USA on the SS Eastern Prince for the voyage to Britain. The US Neutrality Laws have been subverted by first "selling" the arms to a steel company and then reselling them to the British government.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Much contemplation. Re-grounding, acceptance and surrender the order of today.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
It was amateurs who perpetrated revolution, professionals who created the Titanic.

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
An odd combination of England in the World Cup and the first Common Cold I've had for many years can combine to undermine mindfulness!

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Having made an error, which is best, to give it extensive attention or to focus on the next challenge?

TODAY'S ONELINER
The answer is not more gun control, it's more idiot control : D

GARY'S 100 CLASSIC ALBUMS YOU MUST OWN No.59
HEART - Brigade (1990)
The girls at their power-ballad best
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-Nw4NOXWs4&feature=fvst

TRIVIA
A cucumber is a fruit not a vegetable, a member of the melon family, but its taste makes more suitable for savoury dishes.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
A will let the events of my life flow through me but only my intention will rule me.

Friday 11 June 2010

SATURDAY 12th JUNE 2010 07:20(BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (12.6.40)
On the Western Front... Guderian's troops take Chalons-sur-Marne. Here and elsewhere the German advance continues to be very rapid. St. Valery on the Channel coast is taken. A large part of the British 51st Highland Division is captured.

In the Mediterranean... A British cruiser and destroyer force shells the Italian base at Tobruk. The main force of Admiral Cunningham's Mediterranean Fleet is in support. An Italian force of cruisers is sent to engage the bombardment group but does not make contact. In a different action off Crete the cruiser Calypso is sunk by an Italian submarine. Turin and Genoa are bombed by the RAF.

From Moscow... The Soviet government issues an ultimatum to Lithuania demanding territory and the establishment of a new government.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Blogging, upgrading software, some dates to organize.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
A teacher's purpose is fulfilled only in the presence of a willing student.

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Time to walk the walk! Putting my new beliefs to the test.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Where is your source of happiness?

TODAY'S ONELINER
You do not need a parachute to skydive once. You only need a parachute to skydive twice. : D

GARY'S 100 CLASSIC ALBUMS YOU MUST OWN No.58
JEFF HEALEY BAND - Hell To Pay (1990)
A sadly overlooked guitar genius here at his blues/rock best.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MJh3KaIKDAw

TRIVIA
Peanuts are not real nuts - they are a member of the legumes (peas and beans) family. True nuts grow on trees.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Today I will tightly rein in my attention onto the positive, helpful, beautiful, lovely and kind.

Thursday 10 June 2010

FRIDAY 11th JUNE 2010 07:50(BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (11.6.40)
On the Western Front... Paris is declared an open city. Most of what remains of the French forces are retreating in confusion south of the Seine and Marne. The German tank forces take Reims.

In the Mediterranean... The first actions of the war in this theater are some air skirmishes in North Africa and over Malta.

In France... British Prime Minister Churchill meets Reynaud and Weygand at Briare for a two-day conference. Reynaud would prefer to fight on but has little support.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Posting letters and packets, tidying a little. Exceiting, huh?

TODAY'S THOUGHT
The best way to teach and lead is by example. Actions speak louder!

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
I can feel myself more robust in the face of challenges, as I have come to realize that the true thrill of life lies in the act of creation rather than completion. The road is actually the point.

TODAY'S ONELINER
"Under new management" = hmm, looks like we bought a turkey. : D

GARY'S 100 CLASSIC ALBUMS YOU MUST OWN No.57
HAWKWIND - In Search of Space (1970)
The band at their most stoned.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YvEtqGDFPA0

TRIVIA
The average professional soccer player will run an average of 6 miles in a single game.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Today I will be a hunter for the lovely the beautiful, and the pleasurable, actively seeking to observe them happening.

Wednesday 9 June 2010

THURSDAY 10th JUNE 2010 07:15(BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (10.6.40)
From Rome... Mussolini issues declarations of war to Britain and France.

From Paris... French Prime Minister Reynaud appeals to President Roosevelt to intervene in the war in Europe.

In Norway... The Allies complete their withdrawal.

On the Western Front... The Germans are across the Seine west of Paris. Elements of the French 10th Army are still fighting around St. Valery along with some British forces. Some of these units are evacuated from the town. East of Paris the German advance is also very rapid. Evacuations also begin at Le Havre. East of Paris the German forces begin to gain ground south of the Aisne.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Today's the day! My maiden solo business seminar! Shopping and domestic stuff afterwards, some blogging, assessment and follow-up in the evening.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
When you have found your purpose, the strength and skill required to execute it flows naturally from within yourself.

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
Thought management starting to pay off!

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
If you were on the receiving end of what you're doing and saying, how would you feel about it?

TODAY'S ONELINER
"Improved recipe" = "OK we admit it, it tasted crap didn't it?" : D

GARY'S 100 CLASSIC ALBUMS YOU MUST OWN No.56
HAWKWIND - Quark Strangeness and Charm (1977)
Bob Calvert at his creative zenith.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vSR5TnNGKmo

TRIVIA
Giraffes cannot yawn.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
No matter where I am, I have the power to create.

Tuesday 8 June 2010

WEDNESDAY 9th JUNE 2010 08:00(BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (9.6.40)
On the Western Front... The German forces reach the Seine at Rouen and take the city. Dieppe and Compiegne are both captured. Guderian's forces are now in full attack against the French positions around Reims. They have been joined by Kleist's Panzer Group who have been switched east after being held between Amiens and Peronne. In the fighting the French defenders manage to hold most of their positions but take heavy losses.

From London... The king and his prime minister order the loyal Norwegian forces to cease fighting at midnight.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
MORE seminar prep/promotion this morning, contemplation thereafter, trying out some mew mental techniques I've picked up.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Belief is only an idea passed on to you that you assume is truth.

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
I have become less concerned about losing my ego and more focused on creativity.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
When you have a bad feeling, are you aware of a mismatch between belief and desire?

TODAY'S ONELINER
If "thousands of people have already discovered it", why are you advertising it? : D

GARY'S 100 CLASSIC ALBUMS YOU MUST OWN No.55
HAWKWIND - Space Ritual (1970)
The ultimate in Prog Rock/Psychedelia/Sci-Fi fantasy.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dTO4yU_OIjQ

TRIVIA
The sensation of male orgasm comes from a small bulb at the base of the penis expanding, filling with semen. At the point of ejaculation itself, where this bulb contracts, forcing the semen out, the "peak" of the orgasm is already over.
The sensation of female orgasm comes from muscle contractions in the labia, vagina, anus, and cervix.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Happiness comes from focus on the joy within myself.

Monday 7 June 2010

TUESDAY 8th JUNE 2010 08:00(BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (8.6.40)
In the Norwegian Sea... The German battle cruisers Scharnhorst and Gneisenau operate off the Norwegian coast. Their aim is to attack the various convoys carrying the evacuation from Norway to Britain. They sink three empty ships and then find the aircraft carrier Glorious and two destroyers. Despite a gallant defense by the destroyers there is no time for Glorious to escape or launch her aircraft, and although Scharnhorst is damaged all three British ships are sunk.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
A dry run of Thursdays big gig at the venue itself, then Seminar prep and promotion all day and evening!

TODAY'S THOUGHT
You are only alone if you believe your life is about your idea of who you are.

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
The instrument called "my life" through which I make a difference is not "me" any more than my nose is "me".

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Right now, are you doing the best you can do?

TODAY'S ONELINER
My psychiatrist pissed me off by saying I was psychotic, so I shot him. : D

GARY'S 100 CLASSIC ALBUMS YOU MUST OWN No.54
DEBBIE HARRY - Def Dumb & Blonde (1989)
Only Debbie could fuse pop, punk and dance and make it excellent!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ptwY3ecVWTw&feature=related

TRIVIA
"Gas Giant" planets like Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune are "failed stars" - they have all the ingredients necessary but aren't big enough to have enough pressure at the centre to set off the Nuclear Fusion that would make them shine.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
I have all the resources necessary to live a happy and fulfilling life, I just need to use them.

MONDAY 7th JUNE 2010 09:25(BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (7.6.40)
In Norway... The British cruiser Devonshire carries the king of Norway and his government from Tromso to Britain.

On the Western Front... In their advance on the coastal region, the Germans take Montdidier, Noyon and Fores-les-Eaux. They are now only 20 miles from the Seine at Rouen.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Seminar prep and promotion all day, Reiki class in the evening.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Whatever you do and say to others, as well as think to yourself, has consequences for YOU

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
I get it. I really do. Ultimately, finally I get it. The rest is just learning more about it.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Does blame and anger toward others empower you or weaken you?

TODAY'S ONELINER
I thought I wanted a career, but it turns out I just wanted to get paid. : D

GARY'S 100 CLASSIC ALBUMS YOU MUST OWN No.53
GRAND PRIX - Samurai (1983)
A tragically mismarketed obscure financial flop, it's an AOR masterpiece.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iooSDBO9JOs

TRIVIA
No one really knows why the word "dog" overtook the Saxon-derived "hound" or "hund" as the usual word for the animal in English. "Dog" has no origin in Anglo-Saxon, Danish, Latin, or French.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Every obstacle that causes me a change of direction is precious learming experience.

Sunday 6 June 2010

SUNDAY 6th JUNE 2010 08:35(BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (6.6.40)
On the Western Front... The French line along the Somme between Amiens and the coast is broken by the attacks of 15th Panzer Corps after a vigorous struggle. Rommel's 7th Panzer Division makes the largest gains. Between Amiens and Peronne, Kleist's Panzer Group is still being held, but farther inland Guderian's divisions are seizing bridgeheads over the Aisne in preliminary attacks.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Seminar prep and domestic.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
In the face of something that irritates your ego,you can be right or you can be kind.

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
The "other job" is excellent for grounding. If I can subdue my "monkey mind" in this place then I can do it anywhere! Work in progress!

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Can you find the positives in your situation and focus on them?

TODAY'S ONELINER
I asked God for a bike, but I know God doesn't work that way. So I stole a bike and asked for forgiveness.

GARY'S 100 CLASSIC ALBUMS YOU MUST OWN No.52
GIRLSCHOOL - Demolition
The New Wave of British Heavy Metal encapsulated in thes fast and furious masterpiece.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4JxcTEdUsx8

TRIVIA
The Southern Ocean was only formally recognized as an ocean in its own right in 2000.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
No adversity will distract me from my path my dream, my destiny!

Friday 4 June 2010

SATURDAY 5th JUNE 2010 07:55(BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (5.6.40)
On the Western Front... The German attack on the line of the Somme begins. Their tank forces, now organized in two Panzer Groups and one Panzer Corps, are given the leading role. The heaviest fighting is in the area between Amiens and the sea where Hoth's Panzer Corps is heading the drive.

In Paris... In a Cabinet reshuffle Daladier is dropped and the newly promoted General de Gaulle is made Under-Secretary for Defence.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
A day devoted to contemplation!

TODAY'S THOUGHT
To succeed, we must first believe that we can ~ Michael Korda

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
The Dharmic principles of acceptance and surrender are currently at the forefront of my mind.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
Is there anyone you need to call, or something you need to say?

TODAY'S ONELINER
Did you know that dolphins are so smart that within a few weeks of captivity, they can train people to stand on the very edge of the pool and throw them fish? : D

GARY'S 100 CLASSIC ALBUMS YOU MUST OWN No.51
GILLAN - Glory Road (1980)
Quirky original metal at its best.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lpZMNap507U

TRIVIA
In theory, how much computing power you can get on one Silicon chip is limited by the size of the molecules on it. However, this can and is being got round simply by using multiple chips, and the computing power of the average PC continues to double every two years.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Right now I am obtaining the victory available in this moment.

Thursday 3 June 2010

FRIDAY 4th JUNE 2010 07:30(BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (4.6.40)
On the Western Front... In the morning, Dunkirk falls to the Germans. The official figure for those evacuated is 338,226 of which 112,000 are French.

In Britain... Churchill delivers perhaps the most famous of his wartime speeches. His message is, "We shall fight on the beaches... We shall never surrender."

In Norway... The Allied evacuation from Narvik gets underway.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Some fairly intensive networking follow-up then blogging.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
No one can make you feel inferior without your consent. ~ Eleanor Roosevelt

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
A mind focused on a task is a happy mind!

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
What is the most helpful reponse to this situation?

TODAY'S ONELINER
Why does someone believe you when you say there are four billion stars, but check when you say the paint is wet? : D

GARY'S 100 CLASSIC ALBUMS YOU MUST OWN No.50
GEORGIA SATELLITES - Georgia Satellites (1986)
Rip-roaring country-influenced rock n roll
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xT6iwsP99bU

TRIVIA
Elvis Presley never performed live in the UK, and only visited once, en route to Germany when part of the US army.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Today I will live as if I am winning!

Wednesday 2 June 2010

THURSDAY 3rd JUNE 2010 05:00(BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (3.6.40)
On the Western Front... During the day the German attacks around Dunkirk continue. The perimeter contracts, despite a brave counterattack, and German forces reach to within two miles of the harbor. The British and French naval authorities are led to believe that there are only about 30,000 soldiers left in the beachhead and plan the night's operations accordingly. In the course of the night 26,175 men are evacuated but as the rearguard are marching down to the ships, an enormous crowd of French stragglers begins to appear out of cellars and other hiding places.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Breakfast Networking, blogging and seminar scripting.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Feel fear but do it anyway!

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
After the universe showing me I'm still vulnerable to frustration and being unexpectedly put on the spot, I'm now more than ever convinced of the need to hold on to your dream and at the same time focus on the best thing to do right now.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
In what to you hope?

TODAY'S ONELINER
The shinbone is a device for finding furniture in a dark room. : D

GARY'S 100 CLASSIC ALBUMS YOU MUST OWN No.49
FREE - Fire And Water
Mainly moody slow-hand electric blues but also contains ALL RIGHT NOW in extended version.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sRUK59NOjRM

TRIVIA
Unless you are double-jointed, you cannot lick your own elbow.

TODAY'S AFFIRMATION
Today I will be still enough to listen to the gentle promptings of my inner voice.

Tuesday 1 June 2010

WEDNESDAY 2nd JUNE 2010 06:00(BST)

THIS DAY IN WW2 (2.6.40)
On the Western Front... During the day the Dunkirk perimeter, now manned entirely by French forces, is largely driven in but the Germans still cannot penetrate to the town. The beach area is only two miles long after this advance, however. Both before dawn and after dark the evacuation continues, with 26,256 men being taken off, including the last British unit to leave. Just before midnight the evacuation dies to a trickle. There are still plenty of ships but the French troops have not been given proper orders about where to go and which piers are in use. Many more have gone to earth in and around town and will take no further part in military operations.

TODAY IN MY LIFE
Seminar scripting and blogging.

TODAY'S THOUGHT
Now is the only time you will ever have.

TODAY'S SELF-OBSERVATION
My ultimate aim is to not think of myself at all - that all thought is directed outward towards the wellbeing of the world around me.

TODAY'S QUESTION FOR YOU
What do you actually KNOW beyond any doubt at all?

TODAY'S ONELINER
A bank is a place that will lend you money, if you can prove that you don't need it. : D

GARY'S 100 CLASSIC ALBUMS YOU MUST OWN No.48
FOUNTAINS OF WAYNE - Welcome Interstate Managers (2003)
Superb driving power-pop.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5V_rXTp1yBU

TRIVIA
The planet Mars has two moons, Phobos and Deimos. Unlike most moons, they are both irregular in shape, similar to asteroids.