The Cookie Club Trio Plus One .

 

left to right :-
Drums) Meinolf Saggel,known as 'Cookie',Bass) Axel Obert, Piano) Martin Zentner.
On Wednesday 2nd February we were treated to an evening of great music at the Piano Cafe, Neue Kantstrase 20. Joined by Burkhard best known as 'Quasi' on Saxaphone ,the result ? Magic . I made 17 videos which back up my words but uploading will have to wait until next week and an Apple Mac. The Trio will be a regular monthly feature at Piano Cafe ,so should you want a pleasant evening and good food ,I can recommend.
Make a note of this group. They are going places .On dates when the trio play with Quasi ( sax) they are known as Magnolia Jazz Quartet . Not really confusing simply best remembered as GREAT MUSIC .

Parasitic Politicians Cling To Power.

Yesterday on reading that the United States faced a moral dilemma I had to smile.
How on earth can they have a moral dilemma when politically they are lacking morals .If you think I am being anti US or OTT in my opinions read on.
:-These are the words of former CIA agent Robert Baer, “If you want a serious interrogation, you send a prisoner to Jordan. If you want them to be tortured, you send them to Syria. If you want someone to disappear—never to see them again—you send them to Egypt.”
For years the US has funded President Hosni Mubarak and known only too well that his corrupt government did little , if anything for it's people .Elections have been rigged , human rights flouted but silence from the USA. Now as millions of ordinary downtrodden men and women protest the US is worried .They have only them selves to blame. An average Egyptian has had to exist on 2 dollars a day. Has Mubarak ...no way. Yesterday he told the crowds he wont stand for reelection but neither will he step down now . Oh how the greedy cling onto power . You can be sure he'll be arranging his bank accounts and setting up candidates .This wave is sweeping across the middle east . Mind you it seems in vogue elsewhere. Last month the Irish Parliament had to resort to strong tactics to force the Prime Minister Brian Cowen to dissolve Parliament and make ready for an early election. Mr Cowen did not want either nor did he want to stand down .
It would appear that at long last people all over the world are waking up to who is really the "boss". THEY ARE . Let's face it, any worker found stealing or not fulfilling their duties can be fired without notice .Why therefore should corrupt and or inefficient politicians be exempt from such treatment . Mubarak showed what dictator material he was made of when he closed the entire Egyptian internet network down.Not a good move . As for the USA they would do well stop trying to buy friends and cease playing Geo-Politics.

Another 'Tale Of Two Cities '.

The year is hardly underway and it would appear that chaos is everywhere . Actually there is most certainly more than is desirable and the lust for power at all costs is to be seen in most governments . 'LIES ARE THE NEW TRUTH'. Awful but a fact .

Germany is stumbling it's way through yet another agricultural scandal due to Dioxin levels in eggs , chicken and pork. Bad timing as the huge international food exhibition Grüne Woche began at weekend . Denial best sums up this latest affair. The ministry say how many farms are closed yet supermarket shelves are full and were never cleared. I for one miss my eggs and chicken but don't trust the hot air gushing from the ministry . The German public are wary but more accepting than most .

So over to Britain and the Chilcot Inquiry where Tony Blair had to return for questioning re the Iraq invasion . His response being 'regret over the number of Iraqi deaths but time for the west to cease apologising '.

Bad taste is Mr Blair's style . Imagine if a German or anyone for that matter said the same re the victims of the second world war . That Blair carries the title UN Middle East peace envoy has to be the joke of the century . He's best viewed as a war criminal .Did he really believe that three thousand bombs a night on Baghdad alone would be any thing other than a massacre ?
I could go on re so many countries .Instead I ask you to click on this link and read paragraph 1 chapter 1 of a Tale Of Two Cities by Charles Dickens . It's very short but so appropriate. Little it would seem has altered .In his work Dickens wrote of London and Paris . I have but highlighted two events in Berlin and London .


http://www.online-literature.com/dickens/twocities/1/
Dickens and Orwell --- two excellent authors who could highlight corruption and the abuse of power.
As for the photo of the Funkturm .This was taken last week as they were getting ready. Now the illumination is 100% green .I think this image symbolizes the half hearted approach to what is a major scandal.

Japan Festival Berlin 2011

Japan is a fascinating country , ultra modern and famous for high quality electrical goods , cameras etc ,yet still retains and is proud of it's culture. When it comes to the arts Japan has much to offer. Some years ago I enjoyed my stay in this country and found the people delightful . So it was I was only too happy to spend a day 'plus' at the JapanFestival Berlin 2011. There was much to experience plus a sensational Gala Evening on Saturday. My memorable purchase is an interesting work of art .Of all the stage performances TENGU DAIKO , Japanese drums see :- http://www.tengudaiko.de/ and Queen II were the tops. (This morning Windows XP ruined a short video featuring both. ) Mortified I may be but life must go on and there will be other opportunities to film both groups.
Note ) for those wondering why so many youung people in costume the reason is , turning up in such entitled the wearer to a reduced entrance fee.

Thought For Today

 

Spotted today in my favourite little shop , this 'truth' was gracing a T-Shirt. As I have discovered , it's not the cost that matters , it's style coupled with personality. The chemistry that brings about pleasure and a feel good factor.

Down At The Doctors !

A New Year , new moon , new start , new challenges so what's special with that ?Monday morning the sun shone and for the first time in weeks, looking out one saw snow free roads , cars and pavements . It was with a very good feeling I left the flat to go forth on my bicycle . First of all a good 'once over' was vital after weeks of it standing out in awful weather. In Berlin is Stadler ,a huge bicycle store with a remarkable workshop. Dr 'Bicycle' carried out a full examination , replaced brake blocks and oiled all moving parts . ( what a pity they don't deal with knees )Then it was off down the road singing Dr Feelgoods , 'Down At the Doctors' .......... Later, after collecting my salad I spotted the moon and had to capture this image . To complete a great day a mini night ride . Making up for lost time .Being back in the saddle is wonderful . The BVG is terrific but nothing beats the buzz my bike gives me .It's freedom .

Sunday With Kat Baloun and Boogie Radio .

I began this post in the Yorkschlösschen , Kreuzberg. Lots to be happy about . Better weather, Kat Baloun & Boogie Radio playing and a choice of breakfasts to feast on . Now who could ask for more ? Here you see Kat arriving almost fit to be renamed Cat Woman ( the reason being obvious ) Now it's time for more coffee , a chat and then more music .

OK the music finished. Every set was great . After goodbyes I set off home only to have a fascinating encounter and adventure . Life is never dull .

Mode & Sparen Make My Day

Today saw me up and about early .The reason being my favourite shop , ie ) Mode & Sparen in the Kant Strasse was opening after renovations and refits .The last visit was December 31st and seemed an age away . All looked lovely and to see the assistants again was great. Lots of Happy New Year wishes all round .I spent quite a few hours there and confess , drank far more Sekt than coffee. The little collage gives some idea of the shop. No amount of photography can capture the professional yet friendly atmosphere . I did make a purchase .This being a rather slinky dress , ideal for Spring / Summer .It comes with a matching jacket. Brand new it cost me only €15,90.

collage top L) Mode and Sparen from outside . top R ) one very pleasant assistant

centre )yet another excellent assistant .

bottom L ) two assistants and yours truly. bottom R) Ms V and two customers .. bottoms up

Red Sky At Night -- Miss Vixen's Delight .

On the 4th I was up and out early (in fresh snow).The reason being a partial solar eclipse .Thick cloud prevented any view from my vantage point. Actually all for the best, since in spite of special glasses plus a cover for my camera lens there were still worries over damage to my Lumix .From now on it's Lunar shots and sunsets for me. Yesterday the weather was fabulous .Cold but very clear sky and sunny.As I was about to go out ,this sunset was to be seen . It took my breath away and for me is as dramatic as any eclipse ... well almost .

Taking A Chance .

 

The end of yet another year is ticking away . I imagine that for all it's been a year full of happenings .Some good , some negative . That, as they say. is life . Looking back on 2010 it's my wish to choose three highlights . There have been more --but my favourites are:-
1) I found a new apartment and since moving in have been extremely happy. The location ,the structure , the facilities , all serve to enhance life .My removal was around Easter time so very apt for a new start .
2) The amazing Panasonic Lumix DMC TZ10, purchased around the same time has brought endless pleasure and if the 'hits' on YouTube are any thing to go by , some of my videos have brought pleasure to others .
3) In July ,I had the most wonderful birthday ever. Spent in Luxembourg at the Blues Express Festival. The Dr Feelgood group gave me a present no money could buy . They played my favourite song as a special and with a dedication. This was filmed and gives me such a kick.
So there we are . As for 2011 let's wait and see . A 'chance' literally and metaphorically . In the photo you see a wonderful chair . This in a superb Berlin coffee shop . Comfort plus,it rotates and can seat two. I was fascinated . The young lady who served me took the time and trouble to ask her manager the supplier. A firm known as Who's Perfect ,this item is the design Chance . Plus it's available in black. Something to enhance my wonderful new apartment .
Each year gives us a chance to change our life and maybe this will be my chance for a special reason.The following words from Eleanor Roosevelt are among my favourites and help .

"I gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which I must stop and look fear in the face. I say to myself, I've lived through this and can take the next thing that comes along. We must do the things we think we cannot do." --

Eleanor Roosevelt.

I do know that this coming year is the year I should undergo massive orthopaedic surgery.. It will change my life for the better ,yet I do have fear . Eleanor's words are spot on ..
A VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL .

Boxing Day Then Berlin Woman's Day .

 

It continues a very happy Christmas for me and my wish is that all have experienced so much joy .
On Boxing Day, Berlin temperatures dropped.(note ice on the river)Standing deep in snow I watched seven swans a swimming doing their best to navigate flows .Then on to meet with friends for a concert of Christmas Organ music . Held in candle light the programme was beautiful. Later followed a rather good meal over which we had chance to swap stories amid much laughter. Monday 27th was special for a double reason .
The birthday of Berlin Woman ( see my links) a date which she shares with Marlene Dietrich . Thus there was a party and when an invitation was received ,I accepted. The snow continued to fall and was even deeper but as ever the BVG made travel possible. With minimal effort I crossed the city to enjoy a fantastic party. Berlin Woman is truly remarkable . She has a brilliant and genuine personality.As one of her guests put it " she is a communications bomb ". Very true plus like a magnet she attracts. Refreshing, especially in a world where many wear an armour which signals " stay away from me " .Yes, Berlin Woman is a very radiant light .Hence I've taken it upon myself to rename 27 December -Berlin Woman's' Day
Tonight yet another event and so it continues all week....All I can say is 'watch this space and may you too have a wonderful time .Remember , each and every moment is precious and people more precious than pearls .

A Very White Christmas

This was no dream it was reality , but a rather lovely one . The afternoon was spent walking and filming around Lietzensee which looked so beautiful blanketed in white .
Then later off to an evening of musical fun at the Gendarmenmarkt. It was bitterly cold but the crowds were there and so were the performers .Trio Scho ,(bass , accordion and violin) were fantastic as were DIE ARTISTOKRATEN a group who juggled , walked high wire and braved the icy weather in next to nothing . Finally we had Acki Hoffmann and friends who ,true to form were brilliant . How any of these musicians managed to play defeats me . With leather gloves my hands were like ice . They had none ... I kept imagining their breath would actually freeze ....Showmanship . There should be captions with each picture but some how my photo editor is playing games . Apologies . A video with Tri Scho follows :-

Seasons Greetings From Berlin.

HAPPY CHRISTMAS

A Foxy Lady Films 'Foxy Lady'

So here's BVFL ie Berlin's Very Foxy Lady suitably clad for her day out in the chilly city today. Then a video made at Die Kleine Weltlaterne where Otto Hamborg and the Vier Takter were playing .What a must video therefore when we were treated to the piece Foxy Lady .It was, as ever ,a superb evening .

Happy Solstice ..Happy Holiday

Pictured above you see Wittenau Church photographed today at 5pm from the bus stop where I stood feeling more akin to a 'frozen monkey ' . Yet somehow the illuminated church seemed to give off warmth .

The drink you see is a 'special' night cap which goes under the name of 'JJ's Raiser' . If like me you have low blood pressure , you can easily faint or black out .... not very nice . Thus when a pharmacist told me about the terrific beneficial properties of Sekt as a bedtime tipple I was eager to try . Make a Bucks Fizz ie ) sekt + orange juice and for extra power with health benefits add some pomegranate seeds . Result ..... fabulous ! One sleeps well ,wakes bright eyed and with a normal bp . Good medicine . Enjoy the Winter Solstice and don't forget ... it's GOD day .

see :- http://www.globalorgasm.org/

Finally here's a short video shot in the early hours on my snowy balcony in the bitter cold .Worth every shiver :-

Advent in Potsdam

Here are the facts as written in Wikipedia:-
Potsdam is the capital city of the German federal state of Brandenburg and is part of the Metropolitan area of Berlin/Brandenburg.
Here are some more 'facts' from Ms Vixen :-
Potsdam is a beautiful city where one finds delightful architecture, good food , and fine fashion shopping . At this time of year it is home to a small but tasteful Advent market .
Today was a fun day ... indulging myself in books , an Advent Candle supremo and other seasonal items .In the collage you see a Trabi decorated with smaller cars. The food is Polish , Shashlik ( kebabs ) and Bigos ( stew). Roast chestnuts , french fries and gluhwein were also eaten with gusto .Every mouthful , wonderful . I can honestly say that not only is a visit to Potsdam always worthwhile but, it can make your Christmas shopping a relaxed pleasure as opposed to some mad fight in huge crowds . Leave the car , take the train , SBahn and then a tram from the main station. Have lunch there in any one of the superb places or indulge on the Advent Market .

Maybe both !

En Route For A White Christmas ?

Looking around the city today one could say "yes " to the above title/question. However ,still some days to go . With boots ,thick jacket and scarf it was a lovely day to be out and about .

Downside being ,this is not the weather to ride a bike . Theodor Heuss Platz looked beautiful as indeed did the KuDamm with decorations and so much colour . Ka De We was a must visit and to round off this rather wintry day , what nicer than a superb Indian meal . If ,like me you enjoy good Indian cuisine do try the Kabir http://www.restaurant-kabir.de/ Excellent food and sensational service . Christmas was never 'my time' but I can report that so far I'm enjoying this slow run up . Hope you are

Ms Vix and her Fix .

At the end of September all sugar was cut from my diet for medical reasons .To be honest I haven't missed it except in this form . Rosinen Schnecken ,my favourite pastry . In Neue Kant Strasse there is a sensational French Bakery known as Aux Delices Normands GmbH. Their rolls, quiche , cakes and pastries are the best in Berlin, as indeed is the coffee. Whilst partaking of which I spotted my once upon a time 'fix' favourites .How the taste buds tingled and what will power it took to say "no" to that inner self which tried to coax me to have but one . Look at all those raisins . Try Aux Delices Normands , the owner has three such places in the city. As for me ,I still get to enjoy their savouries. Not all is lost .

World Aids day 2010

Today is World Aids Day. A day set aside to further promote awareness and educate the public . So it was I was back once more at the Galli Theatre where a very special performance of Der Troja -Trick , a play written by Johnnes Galli, concerning this theme was performed.
Written with a teenage audience in mind it concentrates on responsibility , mindfulness and self esteem. It also poses the question, "when does one say yes and when does one say no ?"

A cast of five, two men and three women put on a performance that was fun , lighthearted yet at times frightening . The temptation of drugs was highlighted as were, power, abuse, fear ,guilt and confusion ,all of which were superbly confronted. Before and after the show I had the pleasure of meeting former model Waridi Schrobsdorff . She is now engaged in work with the group 'imagine'ev (no more fear.) http://www.magine.org/

If you are interested or wish to support their work please go to the website and get more information. As Waridi says "Aids is a worldwide theme , we cant ignore it "
She cares , do you ?

Ballyduff in Berlin .

If you ever go across the sea to Ireland and believe me it's worth it,there's a little spot called Ballyduff in Waterford.[not just crystal you see] Ballyduff has a brilliant drama group and last week , thanks to the tireless efforts of Geraldine Canning they visited Berlin where as well as appearing in German schools they gave a performance at the Galli theatre of a superb piece entitled UNDER BARE BEN BULBEN. Geraldine Canning ,who you can see at the end of the short video clip,also works in Education and how she fits all this together remains a mystery to me .Full marks.
The youngest actor was 12 --- the eldest mid twenties.
For Ballyduff Drama group read :-enthusiasm, engagement , commitment plus professionalism. It's my belief that,if only more funding were found for the arts our world would be a much better place . Consider the irony :-
We reward bankers ,politicians etc [they of the fat salary,expense accounts]for lies. Those involved with the arts work for a pittance , bring us pleasure not to mention a lot of joy. What a strange world this has become ,or was it always so ?

Berlin's First Snow Winter 2010

The weather forecasters got it 99% right .
Low temperatures ...correct , snow flurries ... correct , at night ...wrong, it was this morning.
A day to stay indoors if possible and enjoy home comforts and pleasant pursuits.
Today's good news being these flakes didn't 'stick around'.
My wish ..let's hope we don't have a repeat of last Winter .

GalliTheatre Berlin

Having lived in Berlin for 23 years means nothing . One is constantly discovering another 'jewel' hidden away within this most fantastic of cities .

Tonight it was the Galli Theatre at Oranienburgerstrasse 32 , 10117 Berlin/Mitte

http://www.galli-berlin.de/ The expression ,'small is beautiful' being oh so apt .

Tonight's piece was a comedy entitled ,MÄNNER SCHLUSS VERKAUF . Not only did it have the audience in stitches but joining in with the music .

Two brilliant actresses gave their all , plus much more, as they portrayed one Gisela Mang , a lady desperate to find her Mr Right and a psychologist Frau Möbenbach who , with her very special methods attempted to show Gisela the futility of her quest as no matter how far one went back in history , the Mr Rights were all too often Mr Wrongs !

The lightening change of costumes and props were brilliantly executed and every xx in the audience nodded as she brought to mind a past xy . Not only does Galli theatre have a wonderful programme ,it also uses the stage for and with the public . Each week one can go and learn acting methods and body language skills . Marion Martinez is sending me some photographs which I will be adding to this post ASAP . For now you have two shots showing the outside in what is a delightful courtyard and inside with a stage built for action.

NB) even if you don't speak German , a visit here is fun not to mention further proof that Germany is a country with humour.

Berlin ... A City Of Angels

Along with Los Angeles , Bangkok and Angels Camp in California, I nominate Berlin as a City Of Angels . You may wonder why, since the name Berlin has no correlation with Angels . It is however home to many who watch out for one another and in so doing make life that much nicer , whilst at the same time illustrating that all the media hype about the evils of mankind is not exactly true . Control of society is most effectively achieved via fear and the press and politicians come close to doing achieving it .Yet along the way there are angels who prove otherwise . Above is the lady who found that very black bag and all it's contents and handed it in after trying to deliver it to me in person . Today it was wonderful to meet her and say my very special thank you . She was/ is my angel . I it seems am the angel of the amazing lady from yesterday .

It's said that "good news doesn't sell copy" .What a shame for if it did there would be less depression ,anxiety and mistrust . So here's my small contribution to this weeks good news .

An Ill Wind That Blows Nobody Any Good ???

Strong winds are not the norm for Berlin but on Friday the 12th November "they blew into town " . Riding my bicycle in such was hard work and a dilemma when a bag containing my camera , books and many very important documents was torn from the pannier. Imagine my emotions when early Tuesday morning a police woman rang to say all had been handed in [check this blog Thursday night] and was awaiting collection at a Police Station on the Kudamm. In pouring rain I set off and sure enough there it all was. After signing and collecting, coffee was a must have . A fellow coffee drinker took my picture to mark the reunification of Miss Vixen with her Panasonic Lumix DMC TZ10. It so happens that this lady also had cause for celebration so , using her camera I took pictures ,followed by more with mine .Then we discovered we are both bloggers. Now let's see what's the saying :-

"It's an ill wind that blows nobody good "

Sure was an awful wind but one resulting in a very happy day and pleasant encounter .If you read German ,her blog is http://www.berlin-woman.de/

Pick Yourself Up Dust Yourself Down .

Last week closed on a low . Whilst riding my bike in high winds a bag was blown off the back and even though I lost no time turning round to get it , it was gone and searching drew blanks .

The bag contained 1 Panasonic Lumix Camera ( mine ) ,2 new books from Amazon .Co .UK( mine ) , post and bank details ( mine ) ,personal data ( mine )

Has it been handed in ? Sadly ,no . In monetary terms I've lost approx 500 euro .The data is another matter .Police have all details as do the banks . Fair to say this incident has knocked me for six and left me feeling somewhat vulnerable .

So today I forced myself to go out and went to Yorckschlösschen where Acki Hoffmann and Friends were playing . A lovely snow dome from Ephesus was given to me by Acki ( top left )

The rest of the band you see around .My snow dome is also to be seen as is photo of myself taken prior to leaving my place .As my wonderful Lumix has been found and kept I had to use my very old , very cheap camera ... No videos worthy of the word .Monday am off to purchase another Lumix . Music was a great medicine as was the thoughtfulness of Acki Hoffmann .

Perfect timing which enabled me to pick myself up, dust myself down , ready to start all over again .

CanCan The Offenbach Way The Only Way.

Today I experienced an amazing "chain reaction" .NB The word CAN is embedded within CHAIN. Think Cancan .
RTE Lyric fm Ireland played this piece of music by Offenbach. Not only is it wonderful,but for me ,very special in as much as it brings back memories of dancing to it just for sheer fun. In flooding over me ,guess what, I had found my motivator. Following an unfortunate accident in August , knee surgery is no longer an option, it's a must to be faced. My resolve is to face the knife , then the music and DANCE . It will be sometime next year folks but I make a promise that as soon as one foxylady is able she'll be filmed dancing to this very piece. Shame I gave my can can boots away but when the time is ready a new pair will be a must buy .On this note I say to all :-
"I could cancan , I will cancan ,I can cancan "
Special thanks to Lyric RTE fm , 'jamirocuay' of YouTube who posted this little video and allowed embedding , but most of all Jacques Offenbach !

WASP ALERT .

WASP = WARNING AGGRESSIVE STINGING PEST

It may be November and yes, we've changed the clocks ..but Indian Summers are a part of life here as well as other countries. This is my wasp alert to all .
Berlin has had lots of sun this last week .Ideal for drying washing on the balcony .
WASPS however found an ideal use for my laundry . It was their 'hotel'. Thus when I went to pick it all up and bring indoors I never saw them but oh did I feel !
Two very large wasps attacked my right hand main finger. Like squatters they were angry at the threatened 'eviction' .
Stings are extremely painful, potentially dangerous and can cause infection depending on where else the insect has been .
After emergency treatment I'm still on cortisone and antibiotics . The swelling , redness and pain are nasty and extreme.
So here's my advice .. if you too have good weather and go to bring washing in, do wear thick gloves and shake all items very well . Make sure you have some antihistamine tablets for emergency cover until you see a Doctor .

Sunday Sunshine With Acki Hoffmann and Friends at Yorckschloesschen.

Sunday was the day we all enjoyed an extra hour in bed as clocks changed to mark the end of Summer time .However nothing is so cut and dried and not only did Berlin enjoy sunny weather but it as ever provided the right music and venues to enjoy life . The Yorkchloesschen for example .A place where €4-60 will buy a small breakfast ! Please look at the collage to get some idea of how big small is . After this I didn't eat for the rest of the day. Acki Hoffmann and Friends were our musical sunshine and requests made many very happy .Well worth getting out of bed .

Some Favourite Berlin Landmarks .

Well a few of them .The film is of a famous fountain at Breitscheidplatz. Above see the Funkturm in all its illuminated glory . Every so often the colours are changed ,almost as if a new outfit has been donned . Maybe the clothes lover 'within' is drawn to this landmark .Then the RBB building at night which to my mind brings resembles a space ship .....

The Magnificent Seven in Neukölln

On Saturday I attended a design sale with a difference. Held in Neukölln, Berlin it was a platform for seven individuals ,active in the world of art/fashion /design. There were interviews by nelou tv ( these to be broadcast on an Internet Channel ) music and of course opportunities to try and buy !
Leter in the evening was the most astonishing musical performance by Mimosa Pale who plays the saw .She was accompanied on the keyboard by Vallter Poyhonen. Mimosa first heard the saw as a musical instrument in a movie , fell in love with the sound and decided she would learn . That was over five years ago and the rest as they say is history..
Here are the website addresses of the very magificent seven :-
1) http://www.himo.mimosapale.com/ Mimosa Pale
2) www.wix.com/kamaeleon/kamaeleon Giorgia Lacobellis
3) http://www.vonbardonitz.net/ Von Bardoniz
4) http://www.allsazillmann.de/ Alisa Zillmann
5) http://www.blackelephant.com.au/ Lottie Consalvo
6) http://www.friederikeporscha.de/ Friederike Porscha
7) http://www.ta-ste.com/ Ta-ste

Actually there is a yet another website so that makes eight .Who says my maths is poor ?

8)http://www.lailatov.it/ Lucia Tolardo

The small slide video is created from stills. Enjoy this and theme from The Godfather as you have never heard it .

Foot note to Angela Merkel.... Read the above names and then repeat that multi-culti doesn't work .

Memories and Smiles ..Part of Lifes Currency .

One of my all time favourite shops , recommended at regular intervals is 'Mode and Sparen ', Kantstrasse , Berlin. Here you can buy both new and second hand clothes at sensational prices . Always be offered fresh coffee and biscuits by the nicest sales staff in Berlin. Add to which you meet kindred spirits .Today,not only did I find a beautiful red ,wool and cashmere coat for under 30 euro but I met this lively lady who posed for me in her own very unusual dress. Rather than trash her old items , many of which have pleasant memories , she revamps into a completely new design .This dress for example .I loved her use of sleeves from one item , buttons from elsewhere etc and the word smile worked into the back . She herself smiled a lot and the fun side of personality is reflected in her clothes and face .
Meetings such as this are sunshine on the coldest greyest day .
ps ) a big thank you to her for taking the photo of my new , very warm red coat .

Kat Baloun , Nina T Davis In Berlin .. Magic

Street lamps may fail but never the moon .
Same can be said for Kat Baloun .
She and her fellow musicians are 'constants' ....

Should you not believe,listen to this . Recorded at Yorkschloesschen Berlin Wednesday the 20th .

Love At First Sight .

When a good Ozzie friend ,an artist, invited me to an exhibition of works created by Australian artists , I said yes . So it was that , today, in spite of bucketing rain I made my way on my bike to the Kunstquartier Bethanien Studio 1 at Mariannenplatz 2, D 10997 Berlin Kreuberg. What awaited me was worth every raindrop and soaked thighs . Some astonishing sound interactional work , visual and acoustic interactional, photographic , prints , sculptures,canvas , and items to defy description .For example a large black tunnel with lots of soil in it . On top of the latter a series of lights and electrodes which glowed as they self charged from zinc energy in the earth . As ever I found my self wondering what gives the artist his of her ideas .. Having lunch with two of them provided some answers .My bonus was due to the fact that sometimes love at first sight happens and today was just such a day and my moment came when I saw the works of Lottie Consalvo and wanted all of them ! So much so I bought two .Here is a part of her Artists statement :-"Lottie Consalvo deals with the complex layers of humanity and explores the nuances in the way in which we cope and behave in the social environment .She is attracted to the outcast ,they invite her in , they sit ,sip tea and she listens .Their stories inform her work " This exhibition closes on the 17th October .If you can do try and get there you wont be disappointed . UBahn Kottbusser Tor . This collage depicting some of the work I saw is superimposed upon a shot of one of my purchases .. "Mourning after"...

Cappadocia and Istanbul ..Turkey's Gems .

It's years since my first visit to Cappadocia. I found it magical then and time has not changed this astonishing place.(now a World Heritage Site) To walk around the valleys and ancient buildings is almost akin to stepping back in time ,and it helps one realize the astonishing accomplishments of mankind .There is a tendency to believe that only we in the 20th / 21century have much to be proud of .
A journey to this place will show you how talented and educated our ancestors were. With what skills and energy they could glorify their faiths not to mention utilize their natural surroundings with an ability it makes the hoo haa over carbon footprints and green party quite laughable . Stone houses which are warm in winter and cool in summer take some beating .No oil ,or electricity generated by atomic fuel.Very clean and 100% safe .
As for Istanbul .This is a city to see and savour .Yes indeed ,Turkey is a wonderful and hospitable country .

Three Ways To Improve Your Health.

Humour , exercise and diet are vital ingredients for good health. Pictured above you see four men who,it can be said , 'deliver the goods' in my life . Humour is excellent medicine and at the top you see Mathias Tretter, a German comedian who is absolutely on the ball. The minute he walks onto a stage one is laughing .Here he's signing cd's after his Berlin show last Saturday. When I asked if he'd make his Angela Merkel face he obliged and it was all I could do to take the photograph .It's astonishing to watch and in combination with his vocal impression, fantastic . Exercise and muscle care are health matters .For this see Jim , my physiotherapist .This guy works little short of miracles with my legs .Today on seeing Jim's marathon sweatshirt ( yes he ran his 10th on Sunday ) out came the camera . Finally ,diet - Salads are so healthy and here I'm blessed . Every other day €2.60 buys me a freshly made salad mix of my choice .To top it one has tuna or Greek cheese . The size does for two days. Served with meat , fish etc its delicious .Visiting the shop is always a mini social event as the humour of the very dynamic duo pictured above humour is pretty good too .
Hope you the readers have such good fortune .

Berlin's Wealthiest Woman.

Was it my olive green sweater or was it the moons influence that worked such magic this week ? In truth neither . All was due to the fact that there are human beings who, via their acts of thoughtfulness bring joy to the lives of others .

For example, Acki Hoffmann , a terrific musician and personality . On Thursday he surprised me with yet another snow dome . This from the Black Forest. It's small and very precious . Friday found me in' Ragazza' a shoe shop in Westfälische Str . Here I met the lady seen in this collage. She works part time there and we had a remarkable rapport . Later ,as she saw me cycling by she asked that , if possible ,I call in today. Why she would not say. It seems her man friend had bought her this rather special snow dome of Cologne Cathedral. In our chit chat I'd mentioned my collection of such . Both she and her guy thought it a must to give to me as a present .Amazing and even more so since the weekend of my birthday I tried very hard to buy a dome in Cologne station but due to chaos with the railways had no luck . Every day of my life I experience ,in so many ways, the goodness that is human nature . I like people and most like me .... That, for me is true wealth .The words of a famous song express it well:-

'People who need people are the luckiest people in the world '

Miss Vixen and Sex and The City .....

Once in while there are days when from start to finish it's 'magic' . Today was such. After working,out I went to Beate Uhse, one of Europe's leading 'adult stores'. My reason was to purchase items suitable for a prototype .WATCH THIS SPACE. I wasn't disappointed but for now that part remains a mystery . However as you'll see from the collage I fell for a really amazing sponge .Then perfume was a must have if only for the clever packaging .Next to Ka De We where I joined in a coffee class run by the coffee firm 'illy'. Informative ,colourful ,fascinating and with delicious coffee who could ask for more . Yet more was, literally in store at Pimkie , a fashion shop with low prices and excellent quality .As autumn is here half gloves are needed when cycling .Look at the green ,half fingered I found . Sensational with a black lace removable deco .One very chic , extremely happy Miss V was seen cycling home along the KuDamm .....

A Beautiful Day In Berlin

Pictures can express more than a thousand words .So true today. After my bad accident in August it was terrific to be back in the saddle travelling some distance and simply enjoying'the cabaret' which is Berlin'. Where there's a will there's a way ! Later,Ms Moon come smiling at me through my windows. A perfect end to the day.

Panasonic .. Star of IFA Berlin 2010

These videos say it all . I love Panasonic and you can really see why .Stills video to close to follow.All captured on what else but my Lumix .

Here it courtesy of Picasa ,,,,,Oops well it was, until YouTube had an error - Back to my techno drawing board ! Here we go :--------------------------

Whitehall Farce

Whitehall Farce originally referred to a certain appalling comedy genre. More recently for Westminster government, especially under Tony Blair. Britain's answer to Napoleon disguised as Uriah Heep . Grotesque ,insincere and very manipulative.
Dublin did us proud when the decent among them gave vent to their feelings by demonstrating at his book signing .Well done Ireland .You get full marks .
Now, Waterstones London has cancelled the event with Mr Blair adding that he had no wish to give extra work to the police. Shame he didn't think so years ago ?
He's expressed his sadness that ordinary people may not turn up for a signed book and gone on to say more wanted this than to protest .
Reader ,turn your mind back to the days of Blair in power . The same Blair did not find it sad that a person who came to stand outside all the barriers at Downing Street, only to quietly read a role of honour of soldiers fallen was arrested within minutes and flung into a van by at least seven police then taken away .I refer to a middle aged woman .No protection for her Mr Blair even though she quietly did what others feared to do .Your supporters and fans are over the Atlantic .They are called Republicans not British . Why not take the title of your book and make it a reality ie) make A JOURNEY far, far away from British shores .

Musical Therapy In Berlin

Shortly after the last post yours truly had an accident in a rather a spectacular fashion from a bicycle to the road ,onto both knees.All shook up best describes it. It meant missing a Phil Bates gig,having to attend hospital and remain for days in bed. Very boring. Thanks to a fantastic physiotherapist and the September music scene life seems brighter. Thursday door to door transport to Quasimodo but guess who forgot her camera ? A pity as the music was terrific.
Then last night Yorkschloesschen and here's a video. Simon Holliday is a class performer with a marvellous personality . Today The Porto Cafe in Tempelhofer Damm was my daily medicine with Acki Hoffman and friends working wonders. As did the breakfast. The U6 takes you right to Porto (get out at Ullsteinstraße)
Tomorrows medicine will be at Piano Cafe on Neue Kantstrasse. Another door to door experience. Excellent therapy for multi coloured painful kneecaps.