#countries of arvos

[mrs-toohot]

Ryder, decoded

So the THTH writers apparently googled “Australian slang” and went copy/paste into his dialogue with absolutely no concept of what any of it means or how commonly it’s used.

So, as your resident Australian, I’m going to translate for you.

Below, you’ll find the examples I found so far, a translation, and a rating out of ten for how commonly it’s used / how accurate the slang is.

Disclaimer: I am born and raised Aussie. My ancestors were convicts. And while I do live in a major city, I grew up in the most country of country towns; population 847. So I am fluent in Aussie.

So without further ado:

Buggers.

If you look up the word buggers you’ll find it’s short for buggery which is the act of engaging in anal sex. But it’s not really used that way any more. I would never use “sexy buggers” that’s kinda weird. It’s only ever used these days as a light-hearted term, such as “cheeky bugger”(usually said with a hair ruffle). Alternatively, you can say someone’s “playing silly buggers” which means they’re messing around/being silly.

Accuracy of usage: 6/10

True-blue.

I see this and I think of this song which I believe they may have played at Steve Irwin’s funeral. It’s basically the same as “proper” or “right” for the Brits. Interchange with “verifiable”. Is entirely a stereotype and wouldn’t even be used ironically these days. In its place, we would use “fuckin’”. The only time this word is used is when you’re describing someone as “he’s a true-blue Aussie battler” (he’s very Australian)

Accuracy of usage: 1/10

Sheilas & blokes.

No. Absolutely not. Sheilas 🤢 is a way of describing a group of girls, but it’s very outdated. You could still call a guy a bloke, but it’s not interchangeable with “guy”. A bloke is specifically very traditionally Aussie & masculine, and you’d almost be more likely to use it as an adjective (I.e. “he’s a bit blokey”). I’ll be honest, you want someone who’s “blokey”, think “Gary from LITG”.

Accuracy of usage: 1/10 and 4/10 respectively

Ripper

Means ‘great’. And unless it’s in relation to specifically calling someone else a ‘ripper legend’ (shortened to ‘ripper ledge’) it’s not used commonly whatsoever.

Accuracy of usage: 2/10

Bonzer

No. Absolutely not. Never in a million years would bonzer be used today. It also means ‘great’ but this can’t even be used ironically. Even in the deep dark depths of country western NSW, using this word will get you looked at weird.

Accuracy of usage: -10/10

Crikey

Sorry to disappoint, but this one’s also a no. It means essentially “wow”. The only time we’d use this is to amuse internationals. We associate this word with ol’ mate Steve as much as you do.

RIP buddy 🪦

Accuracy of usage: 2/10

Fair dinkum & arvo

You’d ask if something was ‘fair dinkum’ if you were questioning if the aforementioned statement was true, or you were trying to figure out if someone was for real. “I’m Spider-Man”, “oh, fair dinkum?” It is… not common. Very outdated and only your countriest of the country boys would use it (and only if they’re 60+)

Now- ARVO- this is a different story. I use arvo EVERY DAY. It is short for afternoon and I don’t remember the last time I used the full word. “What’re you doin s’arvo?” Absolutely used every single day.

Accuracy of usage: 3/10 and 10/10

Have a squiz and take a gander

Both mean the same thing: take a look. Do not ask me where they come from but welcome to Australia. I have definitely said “give us a squiz” or “I’ll take a squiz” lol. The latter is still said but only by much older people. A funnier version ( only said ironically) is ‘have a captain cook’ (rhyming slang for ‘have a look’)

Accuracy of usage: 9/10 and 7/10

Have a yarn

Means ‘have a chat’, ‘talk’, or ‘shooting the shit’. This is actually really commonly used by indigenous Australians, and ‘yarning’ culture is really crucial and involves a cuppa tea 😁 I liked seeing this one pop up.

Accuracy of usage: 10/10

Possible upcoming slang:

Yeah, nah: No

Nah, yeah: Yes

Have a root: Sex

Pull your head in: Calm down, get it together, wisen up

Ta: thank you

Sweet as: sounds good

Righto/Righteo: alright

No worries: not a problem, that’s okay. Often said in conjunction with ‘she’ll be right’

No wukkas: no worries, short for “no wukkin furries” which is an intentional mispronunciation of “no fuckin’ worries”.

Bloody oath: bloody hell/Fuckin’ hell

Ocker/yobbo: super Aussie guy, see “bloke”. Specifically very country.

Drongo: forbidden phrase. Never used ever. Means an idiot/dork. If they use this I quit.

Flamin’ galah: said ironically, very funny. Said seriously, no.

Dropkick: super common. Similar to derro or deadshit. A loser, someone who is going nowhere in life.

Derro/deadshit: derro is short for derelict. Someone who bums cigarettes at the train station. Wears thongs (flipflops) everywhere even in winter.

Bum: (verb) to bum sth: to beg for/ ask for / grift for. “Can I bum a smoke off ya” (often followed by “I’ll pay you back”)

Let’s see what gems they come out with this week, shall we?

[b3ast0fburd3n]

VOICE HC / MEME

bold what applies to your muse, italicize situational ones. feel free to add your own suggestions and carry it on.

► ACCENT  

“country” │ “backwoods” │ “sailor” │ “upper class” │ “city slicker” | foreign speaker │ refined  

► ELOQUENCE

educated │self-taught | uneducated | doesn’t use conjunctions │ shortens words | omits entire words on occasion | mixes up words │ just makes up their own words! │ archaic english │ dependent on mood or setting | doesn’t use contractions

► TONE

loud │ soft │ room volume │ high pitched │ low pitched │seductive │velvety │ speech impediment │ abrasive │ gruff │ shrill │ booming │ matter-of-fact │ toneless │ husky │gravelly │ breathy │ nasal │ barking │ chatty │ condescending │ musical │ suave │ world-weary │ brash │ authoritative

► HABITS  

refers to self in third person│ incorporates different languages/terms/sayings │ uses gender-specific terms │ adapts to audience │ changes pitch around animals or children │ shifts tone when lying │ gives others nicknames │ uses terms of respect towards others

► OTHER BITS

Eden has the slightest country accent. It was a lot stronger when she was a kid (living in Montana), but after finding herself on Rook it faded. You can still catch it when she says things like "oil"

^The accent is much more noticeable when she's talking to people with a similar one. Like defaulting to factory settings.

she pronounces certain words with strange accents and says some in other languages because she's saying it the way she heard it first. "Rapido" "toma-to vs toe-may-toe" "Arvo instead of afternoon"

She didn't start speaking until she was about four and taught herself to read by following along with her fathers sermons. Even though she was slow to start, the amount of reading she did as a kid made her a pretty fast reader. But her speech is often clunky, like her tongue is too big for her mouth, because of how long it took her to start talking. Because of this, she tries to keep sentences short.

► VOICE CLAIM REFERENCE:

Voice claim is Erica Luttrell , specifically here because of the deep quality she uses for this character.

tagged by: @prvtocol (ty! I've never actually thought about this before!) tagging: @ whoever sees it !

[beardedmrbean]

In the future, you may not have to find a pharmacy when you need an ibuprofen.

Several papers, including Iltalehti, report on the government's pharmacy reforms aiming to allow the sale of over-the-counter medications in grocery stores. This deregulation would achieve some 30 million euros in annual savings, according to the administration.

Unsurprisingly, the Association of Finnish Pharmacies has expressed displeasure at the move. The group noted that deregulation would reduce pharmacies' income by some ten million euros, putting up to 40 percent of drug stores in danger of closing.

Private pharmacists are often among the country's highest earners, according to annual income tax data.

Boys left out

Helsingin Sanomat follows up Yle's recent report about a Häme school's support group for girls to help them deal with anxiety.

Miesten tasa-arvo, a men's equality association, put out a public statement criticising the actions of Tervakoski School as discriminatory because the empowerment group is specifically intended for girls.

At the end of last week, the association reached out to the municipality of Janakkala, the Equality Ombudsman and the Regional State Administrative Agency for Southern Finland. Sisko Huotari, the municipality's education director, responded to the criticism by saying that the girls' responses guided the school's measures.

The men's group believes that men are worse off in society compared to women and aims to address this perceived inequality. In a recent grant application to the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health, the association claimed that men — not women — are most often the victims of dating violence. Their claim drew criticism from many quarters.

Lots of bread

Finns eat 40 kilograms of bread per year, but still don't get enough fiber, reports Maaseudun Tulevaisuus, citing figures from Finnish Customs as well as bread lobby Leipätiedotus.

The average five kilos of pastries Finns consume a year may be a part of the puzzle.

While many types of traditional bread are high in fibre, such as rye, Finns are increasingly reaching for more processed alternatives these days.

Nowadays Finns get around 20-22 grams of fiber daily, while dietary recommendations call for consuming 25–35 grams of roughage for good health.

[artemisbarnowl]

Got 2 friends leaving the country. First one left this arvo and is still on the plane. May get to see her late this year. Second one is still around and I get to see one more time at least before they go, and I won't see them for at least a whole year. I'm already moping so bad!!! Did you know that the real treasure of life is experiences shared with those around you?!?

[trailmixtime]

hi! 7, 9, 13 for the ask game! :-D

7. three words from your native language that you like the most?

i'm going to choose three of my favourite aussie slang words, even though it's not actually a language but eh. my top three aussie slang words (currently) are arvo (afternoon), ripper (brilliant/amazing), aaaaannnnndddd she'll be apples (everything will be ok).

9. which of your neighbouring countries would you like to visit most/know best?

hmmmmm. i studied indonesian from years 5-12, and know some stuff (emphasis on some) about their culture and history, moreso than other neighbouring countries, so i'm going to go with indonesia.

13. does your country (or family) have any specific superstitions or traditions that might seem strange to outsiders?

the first one that comes to mind is christmas in summer. northern hemisphere ppl always forget we have the opposite season and so are always so boggled by it lmao. my family specifically always does a christmas pavlova, which people who don't know pav sometimes go "what" to. i can't think of any other traditions off the top of my head but i'm sure there's more

not from the usa ask game

[guerrerense]

Saturday arvo meanderings por Bingley Hall Por Flickr: On Saturday 24 July 1993, a trio of Alco (DL500B) 44 class 4469/4454/4481 all in red terror livery, head a load of feed grain near Mooren one the cross country line between Merrygoen and Binnaway, New South Wales. V700_5_379

[likeniobe]

My heart's in the Highlands, my heart is not here, My heart's in the Highlands, a-chasing the deer; Chasing the wild-deer, and following the roe, My heart's in the Highlands, wherever I go. Farewell to the Highlands, farewell to the North, The birth-place of Valour, the country of Worth; Wherever I wander, wherever I rove, The hills of the Highlands forever I'll love. Farewell to the mountains, high-cover'd with snow, Farewell to the straths and green valleys below; Farewell to the forests and wild-hanging woods, Farewell to the torrents and loud-pouring floods.

[maliciousalice]

I cant wait for yate yulgrew to come here and get delightfully confused by our accent when we say things "would you like a bevie/cuppa? See you this arvo! Want anything from the shops?"etc and hopefully fall in love with the country (with me)

[howieabel]

“Probably nowhere, save for the Eastern countries, would it be possible for the range of classes to be publicly displayed so blatantly as it was in Russia,” the Finnish Communist Arvo Tuominen commented after describing the dining hierarchies of the early 1930s.” ― Sheila Fitzpatrick, Everyday Stalinism: Ordinary Life in Extraordinary Times: Soviet Russia in the 1930s

[kholden83]

I posted 12,046 times in 2022

22 posts created (0%)

12,024 posts reblogged (100%)

Blogs I reblogged the most:

@the-gayest-dovah

@maximum-mom

@stabbyflower

@straycatj

@farm-paws

I tagged 2,013 of my posts in 2022

#pet rat - 232 posts

#should probably tag this 'personal' or something - 36 posts

#unreality - 29 posts

#huh - 20 posts

#signal boost - 19 posts

#wow - 17 posts

#yeah - 16 posts

#fictional pet care - 12 posts

#some original content - 12 posts

#hmm - 11 posts

Longest Tag: 139 characters

#and it only came up because of that school in brisbane that tried to suddenly tried to add a bunch of anti-gay stuff to their previously ba

My Top Posts in 2022:

#5

I'm sure we all know the post about cleaning with ADHD that suggests "Junebugging", an attitude to cleaning that as long as something is being cleaned, progress is being made, so don't worry if you somehow cleaned the kitchen table instead of the shower?

Anyway, I just junebugged my way into cleaning the outside of the front door.

I put some washing (US:laundry) on, and to help it dry (I usually hang it inside) put my hygrometer outside to see if it was worth opening up. It was only 60% outside, to inside's 70%, so I wandered around opening windows.

Kitchen window had somehow got locked, so I got the Complete house keys, which live on a lanyard, to unlock it. (I have a copy of the door key on my bike key chain, so I don't need the Complete set often)

Lanyard was mouldy somehow, so I hung it on the doorknob to wipe it over with isopropyl alcohol.

After that, the bit of the door that got wiped incidentally was way cleaner, and showing up how dirty the rest of the door was, so I got some wipes out and cleaned that too. For the first time since I lived here, some 5 years now.

After I typed that, I looked up the original post to just double check, and it defined junebugging a little differently to how I had recalled it, but my thinking here was inspired by it.

Anyway, after that, I'd accidentally removed one more wipe from the packet than I needed for the door, and my grubby fingers had got it dirty, so I cleaned the light switches. The one in the kitchen was filthy, I'm not sure it had ever been cleaned, tbh.

3 notes - Posted April 20, 2022

#4

I finally got around to scheduling my COVID booster. I very cleverly scheduled it for a Monday afternoon, shortly after my daycentre finishes to save a trip into Town, and before I have a couple of days with nothing on, just in case I have side effects.

Only. I forgot that today is a public holiday, and my day centre is closed, so I don't save a trip into town, and there is in fact a small possibility that the chemist itself won't be open, and the website just let me schedule for this arvo because the public holiday hadn't been programmed in. I did actually mean to ring up and check, but I forgot.

I could have rescheduled for next week, but I've already put it off for months, so I decided to just go anyway

3 notes - Posted June 13, 2022

#3

ARGH! Four electorates still in doubt in the whole country, and one of them is mine. I just want to know who our MP is!

4 notes - Posted May 27, 2022

#2

Well, it finally got me. I have COVID.

I'm at camp, and woke up this morning feeling like a truck hit me, and left a buncha sludge in my lungs.

So I left the cabin, and hung out on the verandah until someone in authority woke up so I could ask for a test. Which was positive. Really positive, the line was really clear before it even finished developing.

Currently back on the verandah, waiting for a family member to come retrieve me.

About an hour ago I coughed so hard I puked.

5 notes - Posted December 8, 2022

My #1 post of 2022

I am so just over all this rain

Not as much as the residents of Lismore, I guess, but even without dangerous flooding this is too much water.

6 notes - Posted March 2, 2022

Get your Tumblr 2022 Year in Review →

[doilyboily]

about the eye contact point, I have a story about that.

I was home from school one day, I was sick, when two cops came to my house when my dad wasn't home, because they got an anonymous tip that my cousin, who had missed his court hearings regarding his drivers licence, was staying with us. I was 14 and home alone, didn't know what to do and couldn't hold eye contact with the cops because I find eye contact to be physically painful. They took that to mean I was lying when I said that we hadn't seen him in over three years, all because I didn't make eye contact.

They asked to come inside, and because I was extremely anxious about the cops and was terrified they would get physical if I refused, I let them in.

They quickly searched my dads bedroom, bathroom and closet before checking the two spare rooms, my bathroom, the toilet and then my bedroom, before they decided I was, in fact, telling the truth and left.

I was too scared to ask if they had a warrant, because no other adults were around, my neighbours were all at work and my dads security camera only turns on when there's no light. The police in my country (not the USA) don't have a very good record when it comes to "situations" involving autistic people, especially teenagers/youths.

When my dad came home that arvo, I told him what happened, and he was rightfully upset that they came here at all and a wee bit upset that I let them in without asking for a warrant. But he still understood that I froze in the moment and panicked.

So yeah, fuck people who immediately assume people are lying if they don't show fucking eye contact.

• Fidgeting and stuttering do NOT always indicate that someone is nervous.

• Avoiding eye contact does NOT always mean someone is lying.

• Having a hard time focusing does NOT always mean someone is lazy.

• Carrying around a stuffed animal or blanket does NOT make someone childish.

• Poor motor skills is NOT a direct indication of intelligence.

Not everyone fits into your box. Deal with it.

[wrestlezonechronicles]

The Legacy of Excellence: Five Diverse Lives, One Common Impact

Throughout history, individuals from various walks of life have left lasting imprints in their respective fields, shaping the world in unique ways. From athletics to literature, and from historical achievements to personal resilience, the following individuals—Arvo Haavisto, Eino Augusti Leino, Gustaf Klarén, Hermanni Pihlajamäki, and Tobechukwu Joseph Udeh—demonstrate the remarkable range of human talent and determination.

Arvo Haavisto: Wrestling Champion of Finland

Arvo Haavisto is best remembered for his significant contributions to wrestling, a sport that earned him international acclaim. Hailing from Finland, Haavisto demonstrated extraordinary strength and skill in the Greco-Roman style, rising to prominence in the early 20th century. His most notable achievement came in the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics, where he won a gold medal, showcasing Finland's dominance in the sport at the time. Haavisto’s success not only cemented his place in wrestling history but also inspired future generations of Finnish wrestlers.

His dedication to training and discipline was exemplary, earning him a reputation as a model athlete. Beyond the medal count, Haavisto's influence extended to the broader wrestling community, where he contributed to the development of the sport in his home country. His legacy endures as a symbol of Finnish athletic prowess.

Eino Augusti Leino: The Poet of Finnish Souls

Eino Augusti Leino is one of Finland's most beloved poets and writers, whose works encapsulate the heart of Finnish culture and identity. Born in 1878, Leino's literary career flourished at a time when Finland was experiencing political and social transformation. He became a voice for the Finnish people, articulating their struggles, dreams, and national spirit through his poems, essays, and plays.

Leino’s poetry often explored themes of nature, love, and patriotism, intertwining them with his deep understanding of the Finnish psyche. His work resonates with a timeless quality that continues to inspire readers today. Leino’s ability to evoke strong emotions through his verses has earned him a permanent place in Finnish literature. Despite personal hardships and struggles with mental health, Leino's artistic output never wavered, making him a cornerstone of Finland’s cultural history.

Gustaf Klarén: A Visionary in Industrial Development

Gustaf Klarén was a prominent figure in Sweden’s industrial development during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Known for his contributions to mechanical engineering and industrial innovation, Klarén played a crucial role in advancing Sweden’s capabilities in heavy industries, particularly in shipbuilding and railways.

His visionary ideas and engineering expertise helped modernize Sweden’s infrastructure, laying the groundwork for its future as a competitive industrial nation. Klarén’s work also had a lasting influence on the Scandinavian engineering community, fostering advancements in technology that benefited both national industries and the broader European economy.

Though less known outside engineering circles, Klarén’s contributions were instrumental in shaping Sweden’s industrial landscape. His technical ingenuity and commitment to innovation left an enduring legacy in the fields of mechanical engineering and industrial design.

Hermanni Pihlajamäki: Wrestling Icon and Olympic Medalist

Another Finnish wrestling legend, Hermanni Pihlajamäki, brought glory to his country through his exceptional performances in the sport. Like Haavisto, Pihlajamäki competed in Greco-Roman wrestling, a discipline that requires immense physical strength, skill, and endurance.

Pihlajamäki secured his place in history by winning the gold medal at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, followed by additional successes in European wrestling championships. His career was marked by resilience, determination, and a passion for excellence, inspiring athletes in Finland and beyond.

Pihlajamäki’s influence transcended the world of sports. His perseverance and success became symbolic of Finland’s broader national pride, particularly during a time of geopolitical uncertainty in Europe. He remains a celebrated figure in the annals of Finnish sports history, a testament to the enduring power of dedication and hard work.

Tobechukwu Joseph Udeh: Modern Advocate for Change

Tobechukwu Joseph Udeh represents a new generation of leaders who are making strides in social activism and advocacy. Born in Nigeria, Udeh has focused on addressing issues of social justice, human rights, and economic equality, particularly within the African continent. As a vocal advocate for youth empowerment and education, he has worked tirelessly to create opportunities for marginalized communities.

Udeh’s influence extends beyond national borders, as he collaborates with international organizations and governments to promote policies that support sustainable development and inclusivity. His efforts have centered on raising awareness about the critical challenges facing developing nations, including poverty, inequality, and access to education.

Through his work, Udeh has become a beacon of hope for many young people in Africa, inspiring them to become agents of change in their own right. His commitment to creating a fairer, more equitable world highlights the importance of advocacy and activism in shaping the future.

Conclusion

The lives of Arvo Haavisto, Eino Augusti Leino, Gustaf Klarén, Hermanni Pihlajamäki, and Tobechukwu Joseph Udeh illustrate the vast spectrum of human achievement across different fields. Whether through sport, literature, industrial innovation, or social activism, each individual has made a significant contribution to society, leaving behind legacies that continue to inspire and influence future generations. Their stories serve as powerful reminders of the impact one person can have on the world, regardless of the era or domain they belong to.

[head-post]

EU chief names European Commission’s new top team

Ursula von der Leyen proposed on Tuesday 27 candidates for the post of European Commissioners – one from each EU country. In a speech to MEPs, she noted that 40 per cent of the seats in the new EC will be taken by women. According to her, after the first proposals of candidates from the EU country, the share of women was 22 per cent, but after the negotiations their representation was expanded.

Former Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas will start work as European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy from November 1, European Commission (EC) President Ursula von der Leyen said on Tuesday. She also added:

Kaja Kallas, as you already know, will be our high representative and vice-president.

Earlier, media reported that in September 2023, Estonian President Alar Karis called on Prime Minister Kaja Kallas to resign from his post after it was revealed that Kaja Kallas’ husband was making money from co-operation with Russia. According to local media, Arvo Hallik owns a stake in the transport company Stark Logistics, which transports goods between Russia and Estonia. At the same time, Kallas has not only demanded domestic and EU-level compliance with existing anti-Russian sanctions, but has also constantly called for new ones.

During the last two years of Kallas’ time in office, the number of Estonian citizens living in absolute poverty increased 2.5 times. The birth rate has fallen sharply – by 25 per cent since 2018.

The head of the EU emphasised that the EU is going through an era of geopolitical confrontations and instability. Therefore, its foreign and security policy should be determined with an understanding of the real situation.

Former Lithuanian Prime Minister Andrius Kubilius will be in charge of European defence and space. While Kubilius was in office, Lithuania lost its previously established trade ties with China, and Beijing downgraded diplomatic relations with Vilnius.

Distribution of EC posts

French President Emmanuel Macron suggested that Stephane Séjourné, the country’s outgoing foreign minister, replace Thierry Breton as European commissioner after Breton announced his departure, saying that EU chief Ursula von der Leyen had asked Paris to withdraw his candidacy.

Italian Raffaele Fitto has been offered the post of deputy head of the European Commission responsible for reforms, Marta Kos will become European Commissioner for EU enlargement and Ukraine’s reconstruction, Magnus Brunner will become European Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration. Dan Jorgensen from Denmark will become European Commissioner for Energy, von der Leyen said during a speech before the European Parliament in Strasbourg.

All candidates for the posts of European Commissioners should be approved by the European Parliament. The new composition of the EC should start working on November 1. The term of office is for five years.

Ursula von der Leyen headed the European Commission in 2019. In July 2024, the European Parliament voted in favour of her reappointment. Ms. von der Leyen said that her priorities would be to strengthen EU security.

Read more HERE

[thewolfcatcher]

WEIRD SISTERS!

Again I say, I don't care if you liked this song or not

This is a weird suno mix of american country, rock and irish fiddle (well, american folk came from irish fiddle)

Anyway, there are in this video good structures that should exist in classical concerts live (stadium experience).

The violin is electric, there is an alternative instrument other than classical (bagpipe), the girls sing, they actually move

They narrate a story

This style of performance should exist in the Classical world. Like Arvo Part composed Fratres for cello and electronics, I am calling to all classical contemporary composers (those who write movie soundtracks) to compose for the Classical Epic Stadium Stage, already incorporating these structures in their compositions.

This video example can become an experimental chamber music formation by members of classical symphonies around the world. (small corps of battle in our war)

Well, if we are fighting for the Woodstock, we should raise our weapons and just BE SURE THE COMPOSITION IS GOOD ENOUGH

Write up your best protest songs

O Diretor da Artave vai me matar

[miniaussiemollie]

Day 5                                                                                                        

Finally, a nice sunny day. A little windy but I suppose it’s that kind of weather for this area. Susie and I went to the market to pick up a few things and let Mollie tag along. She is fascinated by all the smells along the sidewalk, so we are not making much headway on walk to the market. It was decided that we would take advantage of the sun and have a BBQ.

In our ventures I asked Susie what languages I might encounter that I may not understand or be able to speak. I am not bilingual She told me that while English is the dominant language in Australia along with Australian English. Many people speak a language other than English within their families and communities. So again, not that much different than the U.S. or other countries.

Mandarin and Arabic are the other large numbers of languages across the country, with Vietnamese, Cantonese, and Punjabi ranking among the top languages spoken. (https://sylaba.com.au/). I guess if I run into a language barrier, I will have to wing it.

In my studies I remember being asked what “lingua Fanca” means? Double checking my memory bank I recall that it means it is the chosen common language spoken between people with different first languages.

As Susie and I both speak English we thought of a fun thing to play on our walk. She knows other languages some of what are spoken in this area, so she is going to teach me some basic words. Australian English being the choice. Hesitantly I agreed laughing out loud. My thoughts were, this would probably be the best to understand first. She told me how to say

“Hello” or “g’day” or “how ya doing?”

“Yes”- “Naw Yah” (still laughing)

“No” – “Naur” typically a slang meaning “no” none of this sounds right without the accent. Susie is beside herself with laughter. I don’t blame her.

“Please and Thank You are the next challenge.

“Ta” for please and “Please is not commonly used so the English version is substituted.

“Can you help me and “I don’t understand” are very similar to the English Language with slight variations and accent. In all not hard to pronounce but am very sure I do not sound like the rest of the people. It’s fun to try.

Thank goodness for new technology now days. I will come in handy I cannot understand what is being said. An Example “Good afternoon, where can I get some flip flops?” it would be said as “Arvo”! Thongs are at the market. “Cheers”.” Arvo” being “good afternoon”, “thongs” are not to be confused with G-strings and cheers traditionally meaning “hello and goodbye” good to know for later. (had to laugh at that one) (https://www.unilodge.com.au)

Fun fact, if you really think about it, languages influence everyone around us. One misspoken word or a facial expression with the spoken word can make a huge difference on how the receiver takes the meaning behind both combined. A cultural difference, of course, so I best be careful about what I say so it won’t be taken wrong. The idea that our language shapes our thoughts and perceptions is known as linguistic relativity. This theory suggests that people who speak different languages may experience the world in unique ways because their language influences their thoughts. Some studies have found evidence to support this idea.

Well, that’s enough for today. Mollie is tuckered out from our walk and wants a nap, and I am going to help Susie prepare the “Barbie” for some grub.

[lyonfamilyinafrica]

Freezing morning at -8. It’s been unusually cold the last few nights with a cold snap.

A visit to Okonjima game reserve and AfriCat Foundation an organisation focusing on Leopard, Cheetah, Brown Hyaena and Pangolin research.

We went into the rehabilitation reserve where Cheetah are kept that cannot be returned to the wild due to their age. There is a big challenge to find a balance for cattle farmers and predators. The vegetation has encroached into areas it wasn’t naturally found with all the fenced farmland that doesn’t allow grazing by wildlife including Elephants. The farmers need to make a living though and some have switched to coal harvesting, which helps remove the excessive vegetation. It is imported to European countries too.

Cheetahs were formerly released into the reserve with the Leopard and Hyaenas but that wasn’t ’favourable’ for the Cheetahs.

They had a great education/research centre and veterinary clinic.

Relaxed around the pool for the arvo, our first proper rest.

Had a beautiful 3 course meal at the lodge restaurant with pumpkin gnocchi, Oryx (Gemsbok) steak with beetroot salad and sago pudding.