How Big Is A Giant Sunflower ?

Spotted yesterday in Berlin .These enormous sunflowers . To show how big they are I made these photographs. I'm 166cm , they are as tall again.

Amazing shade and camouflage .

Can you spot Helena Mikas ?

On This Day Britain's Public Said No to War .

Well done those MP's who listened to the public and put morality before profit .
Cameron has lost the vote for war . It sends a much needed signal. Britian will not be manipulated.
The public learned from that trumped up invasion of Iraq and Al Qaeda violence toward us on our own streets. Diplomacy is the answer not to mention a complete block on the production of chemical weapons .Until this is done what politician can stand and shout war when they are used. .Cease trading in such and destroy all stocks .Meanwhile let the inspectors get on with their work .and how about inspecting those countries who sent them there .

People Need to Strike For Peace

Read these words :-)

"The Prime Minister said there was not "one smoking piece of intelligence" but insisted he was convinced by the evidence that it was "beyond doubt" Bashar Assad's regime was responsible."
Clearly Cameron is suffering from Bush & Blair  Syndrome ( remember the smoking gun)

What is about to happen is terrible, corrupt,rigged and risks leading us into a World War. For the last few years we public have been told austerity measures are the order of the day thus we must do without.
Yet suddenly vast sums of money can be put on the table to wage war on a country that is doing nothing to harm us. It would appear the American and British public  are 'against' but leaders are not listening. Many shake their heads and ask what they can do Alone, nothing. Together a lot .Civil Passive Resistance is one answer Example , an all out stoppage for at least 48hours.Shops stay closed, no transport.Factories remain silent. Tough it may seem but we will really suffer if this madness goes ahead whilst those who orchestrate remain safe within their comfortable, very secure lives. Solidarity is called for and  may go some way to show how we feel. That our politicians condemn Assad ( case unproven) and  have stated they will use cruise missiles shows how little the death of women and children  really means. It is merely their opportunity to strike power deals and make money .
Our nation stands for better things and we need to speak out. Peaceful 'strikes' are one solution. As is common sense .Let each do their bit .The government are using our money to fund supporting Al Qaeda rebels . Just not good enough .
Meanwhile well done Ed Milliband .

'Billy Liars' of Politics, Obama , Cameron , Hague .

Obama wants to use cruise missiles . Can he honestly think these will hit only certain people ? If so he needs help. He's telling lies whilst doing proxy dirty work for Israel. Votes count and US is bankrupt. Nothing like a war to push up price of oil and gold. Death by gas or cruise missile is still death. We do not know who used the gas nor who sold it. Maybe this latter point is what Obama fears. If they deploy Cruise missiles then the world will know who has killed more innocents. Once more America. Licensed to kill.
As for Cameron and Hague. Britain's undynamic duo, they are tragic.  Stage talk as  Cameron says he'll never forgot the pictures of the dead children. Will more dead children look any different when they have been bombed by the west ? I think not.
Both countries lie with such ease, speaking as if they have morals when in truth they have none. Both had shocking lists of sanctions against Iraq prior to that illegal invasion. Many medications not dual purpose were withheld. The result a death sentence to numerous sick children from what should have been treatable.How do I know ? I saw first hand whilst actually in Iraq with a group of German journalists. We visited the mother and baby clinic in Basra and there I witnessed children dying awful deaths due to having no access to medication. Mr Cameron I don't forget that. The lies that blocked that medication caused horrendous deaths.  Cease your gung ho stupidity. You and Obama are bullies who were never elected as world leaders . Indeed Mr C you weren't overwhelmingly  elected in UK. Israel is after the Golan Heights and all set to use any amount of weapons. As one of the biggest producers they are never inspected. I wonder why ? Just as their treatment of Palestinians goes unchecked .
There are nasty, unseen groups who wield  power behind the throne of 'democracy'
Hands off Syria and let weapons inspectors do their work. CIA fabrications do not count we saw them being 'presented' in the run up to Iraq .
Final thought ) if a group calling themselves rebels tried to sieze power in US or UK  would the government sit back and do nothing ? We know the answer.  

Tip For Today .

Berlin is a city where one can buy,order and consume food at every third step, so to speak .
The variety is excellent and I enjoy trying out new spots and when they have that 'extra something' I enjoy sharing the knowledge with those who are visiting, be it from within Germany or  overseas.
Situated on the Kudamm, Berlin's famous shopping boulevard (bus stop 'Bleibtruestraße') is the Hotel Mondial.Their restaurant is wonderful and each day a two course business lunch is on offer, price 9,80€. Quality, service and fine cuisine are the key words. The meals I've sampled have all been excellent. Above you see my choices for Wednesday 28th. Well worth a try and within a holiday budget.  If you do visit I would appreciate 'feedback ' no pun intended. Enjoy.

Gas Gas Gas Gas ,Hot Air & Chemicals .

So Mr Cameron thinks that going to war will prevent the use of Gas by the Syrian President. It has not yet been established who was responsible in a civil turmoil where the rebels are actually Al Qaeda. This unsavoury group have made a statement setting out their objective to kill and kill more. They are the enemy when on our territory but to be aided whilst overseas. Madness.
Messrs  Cameron and Hague have already found the Syrian President guilty, from afar at that .Wow impressive eh. Third rate politicians pretending to be first rate weapons inspectors.
UK , America , France and Germany produce these weapons and sell to 'anyone' for the right price. One wonders if they ask the buyers why they need ? Maybe to use as a table decoration ? Profits overide scruples.
Not only are the Western powers two faced , they are economical with the truth .
What purpose will their scud missiles serve ? Truth is they don't think. Scud Missiles don't know right from wrong (rather like weapons traders ) and more people will be killed including women and children. For sure each scud costs a lot of money, approximately 1 million dollars, so for France, UK and USA, all countries with austerity programmes, one is puzzled as to where the money will come from.
We are all being put at risk by these insane  'money making actions' draped in a cloak of morality. Already the streets of London have seen how fundamentalists hit back .
Who can forget the lies that led to the illegal invasion of Iraq resulting as it has in chaos.  Can we really stand and watch another sick charade. I suggest Cameron , Hague , Obama and all other leaders eager to play tough guys go and fight on the front line themselves .
As a final note I would ask why it was fine for USA to use Agent Orange , a very nasty chemical weapon  throughout the Vietnam war and to now pontificate  as a nation without "flaw"? Doubt there will be an honest answer from the only nation to use an atomic bomb twice. The latest quote from "Omnipotent Obama" being :-)
"We do have to make sure that when countries break international norms on weapons like chemical weapons that could threaten us, that they are held accountable," .
A case should be opened against US then for doing such in Vietnam , not once but repeatedly. The US is the worlds biggest threat to us all .

The Kaiser Wilhelm Church Berlin

This beautiful church was bombed in WW2.
What remained stood as a memorial church, the broken spire serving as a reminder of the war.
For some time now the tower has been encased in panels as a cleaning and restoration programme is carried out.Today I noticed that slowly but surely the building is emerging. To take these shots I began in Breitscheidplatz and walked in a clockwise direction around the tower. On my first day in Berlin 26 years ago this year , I asked a German why the church was broken ? He explained and thus began a learning curve about Berlin. Worth going inside for it is astonishingly beautiful .
As I looked at this church I really prayed sense will prevail and the forecast mad rush to war in Syria, fuelled more by weapons industry profits than morals, would cease. It will kill thousands, increase terrorism, destroy the amazing historical places  which remain and could take us into WW3. The invasion of Iraq destroyed so many people  and much of the cradle of civilization. Will the west who are over their own wars cease living by dual standards whereby they make and sell gas and weapons to any who have enough money to buy.

French Fries Without End .

This week I was back at Galaries Lafayette in Friedrichrichstrasse.It was there in the food department I spotted this. For any who can't understand let me explain:-
Every Tuesday you can eat as many portions of chips as you like for the sum of 4,50€. Order portion one, then when ready request a second and so on. You can eat until closing time should you manage it. Their chips ( fries ) (Pommes) are absolutely marvellous. Crisp, thick and tasty. Served with mayo , ketchup or vinegar.The choice is yours. If you look back at my posting 'A Flying Visit to Paris you'll get some idea. Why not make Tuesday your chip day ?

Two Dates For Your Diary ,

The weather is all set to remain pleasant so if you want a good time, music and atmosphere , why not try Falkenhagenerfeld Spandau ,where 'Roots of Rock' are playing (24 August at 18:00hrs,) on the stage at Westerwaldstr directly before the club house .It promises to be good . Bus 137 from Spandau Hbf will take you to Westerwaldstr .
Then on 31 August, it's Turmstraße festival and another chance to hear more of this great  music . Street festivals are amazing fun and such a feature of German life . A good day is guaranteed .

Miss Moon In Berlin

One doesn't need to be Sherlock Holmes to know for a fact that for me the moon is a  fascinating and mystical celestial body. No matter how many photographs I take of it the beauty and magic remain. It has me hooked. Last week I managed a pretty amazing shot seen here  using my Panasonic Lumix TZ31. No telescope , no trickery.
So it was off to Photo Huber, Budapester Strasse where a fantastic enlargement was made and framed. At the same time an ID photo was needed for paperwork. Imagine my joy when I was presented with this picture .
My moon shot and ID combined to create a very special Miss Moon Photo. A lovely present .
Here in Germany people carry visiting cards .Maybe I should down size this and use .

Feldheim. Renewable Energy. Green Energy. Progressive Energy.

Only a few words as most is on my youtube info. This very small place is well worth a visit . Aware as the world is, that fossil fuels are limited,with frequently  destructive spills,plus nuclear is not at all safe when things go amiss added to which it creates toxic waste, our use of renewables is on a small scale. Offered the choice of a nuclear power plant on the door step or a wind turbine I know my answer . Many find them ugly yet they are no worse than pylons,indeed rather akin to graceful dancers spinning on that stage called earth. Feldheim has achieved what others dream of.
Tip ) Why not combine a visit to Feldheim with Lutherstadt Wittenberg. I can recommend.

Surprise Surprise More Obama 'Pledges'

So President Obama doesn't see Edward Snowden as a patriot . Hardly surprising given the facts we are now aware of .Where there was once supposition there is now evidence .
A surveillance system so vast it makes the mind boggle and the flesh crawl . Our ordinary lives have been kept under scrutiny, privacy violated and data collected . Could we do the same to the perpetrators ... no way. The USA has not stopped at spying on it's own people . It's infiltrated the EU .Behaviour which ranks higher than some of the other despicables. DDR and their STASI for example .
I live in Berlin capital of Germany .Within this city you can visit two prisons where 'none patriots' were executed, Plotzensee Memorial Prison and Sachsenhausen.
Is this to say that all others were patriots ? I think not. Some were but many were understandably too scared to speak out.
Edward Snowden had a conscience and for this he can be applauded .
As for the latest pledges by Mr Obama for overhaul and transparancy  We have heard these pledges all too often. I ask does he really think anyone will believe him now that the almighty Orwellian system is known to be a fact  ?
My final point is , were Edward Snowden returned to the USA , he would meet the same fate as those in Plotzensee. Why should he die for telling the truth ? Some would do well to speak it .I for one don't care that my views could be viewed as anti establishment by some. Law abiding I am . Scared of Big Brother tactics I am not .

A Flying Visit To Paris ?

Paris and Berlin.Two exciting cities and today my 'journey' there was made possible thanks to the BVG UBahn and Galeries Lafayette, Friedrichstraße 76-78. 

This French department store exudes all things French.  Fashion, food, decor, the lot.

A wonderful time was had at the Lancombe counter where I made some purchases. Unusual eye shadow palettes (limited editions) and a blusher. Then a look at the new autumn season footwear, emphasis being on boots. Finally a meal at the grill bar. The huge  burger was freshly made with a topping of onions plus Roquefort cheese and served with a very generous portion of french fries. 

Lafayette makes a pleasant change and a chance to 'almost' be on the Boulevard Haussman Paris. What you might call 'a flying visit'.

Man vs a BA A380 - A Must Watch .

View this and marvel at British Airways, and the South African rugby player Bryan Habana.It will leave you breathless and full of admiration.
Great video, great airline, great sportsman.Thanks to all for making the world a nicer place .

Great Britain Celebrates A New Heir To The Throne .

Olympics 2012  , the Diamond  Jubilee Celebrations and now a new Prince. Eagerly awaited all around the world .Where was I when the news came? Taking photos of a beautiful full moon having wished a German friend of mine Happy Birthday ( she lives in Munich) I cannot describe her joy as she called me to tell me the news . I dedicate this photograph to her and to the new baby Prince. She is delighted as millions are . Let's hear it for Great Britain and for a Royal Family who bring us joy and so much more.

Ohne Sex geht's auch (nicht)!

Die Wühlmäuse is a comedy theatre in Charlottenburg where tonight the star was one Mark Britton .A British man , married to a German lady, he's lived in this country for 20years. His act is 99% superb German peppered with approximately 1% English. A nice blend of Denglish.
Observation, sharp wit and boundless energy create  this 'none stop' flow of humour.The audience loved it. As is normal practise at the end of the show one can buy a DVD . I recommend. The saying that 'laughter is great medicine' is very true  and the combination of German and English guarantees recovery.Look and see if he's at your local theatre -
Meanwhile enjoy the collage below .

Come Fly With Me ....

Last Tuesday was action packed .The start of the day was extremely important ( May get back to this later in the month ) Then off to Tegel and British Airways who made my journey to Belfast via London Heathrow possible .All terminals at Heathrow are huge .
I was transported at speed and this also gave great photo possibilities . Belfast City Airport is small and so well run .Again lots of help and on my return day (Thursday) another chance to watch the planes and relax. After that all is best described as a beautiful dream . You dont always need exotic places and as for the 'Bar in old Bombay',
BA even saw to that !  

Smooth Way To Start The Day .

Strawberries are cheap , fresh, seasonal and of course extremely healthy .
Pineapples from Costa Rica are cheap , superb quality and also loaded with goodness.
Eaten in a salad or dessert both fruits give zing and colour to any meal.They also make smoothies. Here you see two .
The simplest I've called 'You Are My Sunshine'. Chopped pineapple in the blender and voila two large glasses of super smoothie from just half a pineapple (cost of one whole fruit 1,48€) Later today I created a strawberry smoothie using 300gm of such .Added to this was a shot of Pineapple Smoothie poured on top .Watching the red and yellow merge looked akin to the sun , hence the name 'Solar Energy ' This is my breakfast drink chilling in the fridge .
*one thing I've tried is making strawberry smoothie cubes and pineapple smoothie cubes. If successful one of these in a glass of sparkling wine should be interesting and healthy.
Cheers  

Supermoon,Peregrine Moon 2013

Once again I live up to my nickname , Ms Moon .
A Supermoon and a Summer Solstice rendered me a veritable 'Lunar-tic'  Yes I know the spelling is odd . My sanity is not in question, I simply never weary of all things Lunar ...and Lumix 

Summer Solstice Berlin 21st June 2013

Not filmed from Teufelsberg as I would have loved, but even so it was fun.This day is always special so Berlin's clear skies were perfect.To view the sun and the moon together was as good as any birthday treat .

Red For A Red Hot Day .

The weather has been 'red hot' with temperatures in the mid thirties. That's not too awful but the humidity is the horror. To get through one simply has to enjoy the vibrant colours  all around hence yesterday I named my 'red day'. Beautiful flowers near to Lietzensee caught my eye so in return the TZ31 captured them.  Later, strawberry shopping .This is the only time I enjoy this fruit and cherries as it's the season. Each year these delightful booths appear all over the city to sell locally grown produce. Perfect with a salad , in a smoothie , for breakfast  and at  2,95€ for 500 gm a very healthy bargain .
Today is the Summer Solstice .Apt therefore that the sculpture in the middle of the flower bed is called 'beginning and end' . Enjoy this the longest day .
Note )
The Solstice isn't the only celestial event this week.The 2013 super moon is due to peak June 22-23 and we should see a very large, bright moon. My TZ31 has plans and I pray for clear skies. Imagine sitting out filming eating luscious strawberries under the Berlin sky. Good medicine.

Another Date For Your Diary

Yet another entertainment tip. Music, food, drink, and fun.
For a'taste' see my links and hear what this group have to offer .

Comedy in English - Berlin

Laughter is the best medicine and Berlin can deliver'the best' in both languages .
For a taste of some great comedians try the English Theatre at Fidicinstraße 40.
Once a month a superb show is guaranteed and for 8€ you are sure to come away smiling. I was there on Saturday and once again had a great evening . Having taken these shots I asked if it would be possible to share here and on You Tube .With the thumbs ups here I go.  Note, there's now a link where you can always check out their calendar.
Tucked away in Fidicinstraße this is a really cosy theatre with a great bar too.

A Date For Your Planner

What are your plans for Saturday 8th June ? If uncertain let me suggest a venue.

This will be a great gig and one I can recommend . Plus entrance is free .

Brücken-Eck has a terrific atmosphere and beer to match . The address is :-

Kiehlufer 55, 12059 Berlin.Try to slot this in. It promises a night out , great music and you will not be left 'out of pocket '. 

Back In the Saddle With Fred

It's been a long time stuck in doors or using only BVG. The latter may be great but nothing compares to Fred. Yesterday I decided to take the risk. The Dr has been clear about the consequences of one more fall. It's a risk I'm prepared to take. Boredom and fear are not for this lady.The sun was wonderful. Meeting up with acquaintances even more so and coming home akin to a coffee pot 'interesting' as it didn't keep me awake.
I slept like a log.
Fabulous Fred and I are back as a team .

Helsinki Day 2 .

This is one very lazy Helena Mikas so best I say read the notes that go with the video on YouTube. If the soundtrack sounds different , it's meant to do as it reflects my passion for organ music and the fact that on this day I heard do much superb playing .
The piece is entitled Death's Door. The visit to this wonderful city was the best medicine  to date .I may well still get to be 130 years old . Try Finland, where I for one was made so much better . 

Hello Helsinki

Helsinki is the capital of Finland. It's current population is  604,380, Population including administration areas is set at  1.3 million. Finnish and Swedish are the main languages with English spoken by most .
The airport is user friendly and transport into the city frequent and well priced . My first outing was to the central harbour , easy to reach with tram 3T . The harbour boat ride was relaxing and fascinating as we sailed around what must be the most beautiful archipelago.Nature thrives alongside people and the history of this city is to be discovered by just such a trip . 
Tip ) the tram 3T is a rather useful as it goes around the city in a figure of eight ,changing into a tram 3B .It's frequent and so functions as a really useful means of transport for finding places and getting off and back on the next . Which is what I did on day two .
A day ticket vaild for all buses , trams and underground is   8 euro , Excellent value .

Panasonic Lumix TZ31 (hasn't made this Princess happy)

Last week I bought a Panasonic Lumix DMC TZ 31 .
For JPEG it's impressive but when it comes to video it lacks a great deal especially at night when using the zoom for films of the moon and clouds.
The 20x optical zoom blurs and 'swims' resulting in videos which have a 'drunken' appearance.
This camera may well be defect and yes, it's being returned.******
The collage is made up of some  decent TZ31 JPEG.
Top L) the tip of the Funkturm  Top R) same place at night
Bottom L) *strawberry icecream coated in rucola. Middle ) moon and clouds
Bottom R ) the Siegeßäule
* Movenpick Ice are the creators of the strawberry and rucola desert .

It is best described as sensational .

******
The camera has not been returned. because  the 'Pansonic Princess has fallen in love with it.    Errors have been sorted .

M -Words On Saturday 27th April

Medical,  MRT,   movement,   magical, magnetic, Martin Gropius Haus, mobility, music,  masonry. These are a few of the words that made my Saturday an M Day.
Getting around is still rather difficult in that it is a slow process and still painful but oh how the transport system(s) of Berlin help .It's possible to criss cross the city using any combination of bus, underground lines and sbahns .Even easier, is the planning system which tells you exactly how far you will have to walk and the exact time it will take . Unlike a certain airline they don't blow trumpets they just do it with staff and facilities that are first class.The exhibitions at the Martin Gropius Bau Haus are well worth a visit .
As with all things German,there is a rather splendid restaurant. 

'S' words and An Upside Down Sunday

The prescription for today read :-
Fresh air and sun 
One bacon sarnie ,
One ice cream 'shared' ,
An hour flat out in the sun , 
An hour's gentle swimming .
Swedish recipe cooked to perfection 
Eaten under what else but the early night sky
With the moon as ever shining down .
Photography no matter what !

Ms V Loses Her Culinary Virginity !

Unbelievable and proof that one should never say never . Now if you are awaiting a 'steamy' posting , sorry you've read it wrong. Though fair to say it concerns something hot.  Berlin is the city of Currywurst. This is sausage, grilled, chopped, covered in curry, various other spices, tomato sauce and served with chips . So why my long wait ?

Coming from Britain where Indian food is superb I couldn't face the idea of sausage with curry powder . Very none gourmet . Yet today on arriving at Friedrichsfelder  Ost there was  the van ( see collage ) and my rather empty stomach decided 26 years was long enough to wait .The order cost a mere 3€  and as you see was enjoyed .

Four Words To Make You Think .

On Saturday I went shopping and the goods were given to me in a bag which carried this message :-

                                                              

So what, I wonder would your 'desire' be ?  Mine was and still is, easy to answer. Simply 'myself '.

The following day came three words Spring Has Sprung but since from  'out of nowhere' it merited a film . Enjoy.

Art and Ice Cream

Today has been glorious and tables at Ice Cafe Mauritius were full. I still found a place for my coffee and then noticed who did the chalk board work .. Life has been so restricted since March 7th and if nothing else it's enabled me to note daily things I'd previously missed .

Happy Easter To All.

Here I go again , more a Ms Moon than a Ms V and feeling better than  in weeks .
Was it the lunar photgraphy earlier in the week ? Is it due to the fact that it's Easter ?
Could the fact that as from Sunday we have an extra hour of daylight play a role ?
Or is it due to the thought of spring flowers as seen at the end of this clip ?
As like as not a combination plus it's a time to celebrate for many reasons ,Where ever you are I hope this Easter brings new life to your hopes and dreams . 

Look To The Moon

Recently a visitor told me the importance of looking to the moon . Many of you know I do quite a lot of such for photographic reasons . Last night was of special importance and later this moon. Several photos were taken .Why have I chosen this ? For me, the moon photographed in isolation is diminished. It requires visual interaction with clouds , nature or buildings to enhance it's mystical beauty. Here we have such. The cold air,lighting and trees give the photograph an unusual appearance .It could amost pass as a painting .
The movable Christian celebration of Easter is worked out by the lunar cycle . Therefore let me use this to wish all a " VERY HAPPY EASTER "

BIXSICK Orchestra Play Ostrich Walk

Thanks to my visitor plus an exceptional public transport system I was able to get to the Die Eins and enjoy some live music. As ever my Panasonic camera was to hand so a couple of videos were made .This group are exceptional and the above video (shown with permission ) enables you to hear a sound that is something special.
Note the attention to detail ie ) from their dress , to the microphones , and , instruments that were actually made in the 1920's. Here is a group that has a passion for their music . You'll find a link to their web site in my links .Click and enjoy more music not to mention discover  what makes these musicians a pleasure to listen to .

Another Kind Of Fox Hunting

finding lots of foxes can be fun.Still looking for one on a bicycle.May use the 'Hello' fox for some postings.

Hot Coffee Outdoors A Cure All.

Some swear that eggs 'chopped up in a cup ' cure everything .Tasty, but not half as good  as sitting outdoors with a cup of coffee and being amidst the life around . Such outings are short but very sweet. These pictures were taken today. If you cant take anything to numb the pain , best answer is distract yourself .

My Berlin Riviera

As videos go this is not exciting, but it's a marker. If I can take my camera and use , no matter how bad the pain , things must be looking up .
The people I met were both fascinating and inspirational . My style has been cramped but
even with mini outings the flavour of life is there to be savoured.

A Thought For Every Day

A marvellous thought for today and everyday :-

"Every day we should hear at least one little song, read one good poem, see one exquisite  picture and , if possible, speak a few sensible words "
 
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe .


Goethe had a way with words and the above  are for me, a perfect daily prescription.
Who knows, once better I may share my poem for the day with you on a YouTube Vlog.
Sharing a little song may take longer, though once upon a time could churn out a nifty number. Almost every  day I do get to hear several lovely numbers .As for pictures. In my own way I've tried to share 'captured' images so will continue to find more .
As for a few sensible words .. promise to do my best.

Time On My Hands .

Last week I had a very bad accident. Just as  filming several events was scheduled .
Such is life and here I am in bed battered ( like a cod ) bruised a la a boxer and stitched up as well. The plus being, in this weather , home for the moment  is the best place. Forget the pain and enjoy time to investigate books and photographic updates .
Picasa have updated and today gave me time enough to investigate this and several other new features. The new sketch feature is quite effective with some of my Manchester shots . Judge for yourself from this collage .I make no secret of the fact that I love Manchester .

Zürich in The Snow

A little taste of Zürich --- It's a beautiful city as well as being friendly and ultra clean .
There is one frame in this video which is so apt for Valentines Day . Can you spot it ?

Manchester Day 2. Architecture

All I can say is 'enjoy ' . Sure enough it's my home city but as like as not number one for friendliness. It is amazing !

Manchester.'The Greatest.'

Let the video speak for itself . Manchester is a fabulous city which is amazing for it's listed buildings and now, many truly spectacular architectural works . This first video takes in my journey , arriving in snow. Later out in the  rain for a fabulous night out up in Cloud23. I can recommend and say , make this a must for any trip to Manchester. Savour both views and drinks .

Paris In The Winter

The songwriters never took into account the fact that Paris is not used to snow and thus as soon as a cm falls the city goes into shock .Streets are not swept , no services for clearing runways exist  on a Sunday. Astonishing. However after an age I did arrive. The weather was wet, chilly but fun and maybe this odd mix gave more 'mood' , to photographs. I met many fascinating people, not all shown in this film. Enjoyed the French cinema, Japanese cinema and a classical concert . Miles were walked hence  at Terminal 2F CDG to relax prior to return trip was a must. Flights were functioning, yes it had been a great break but an even bigger pleasure to return to Berlin .

Is Berlin a Berliner ?

Today I was greeted by bright sunshine streaming through the window. This made springing from bed easy. After all the Funkturm beckoned and what was even more wonderful was the sprinkling of snow over the city. As if some giant had come along shaking powdered sugar over the city making it a real 'Berliner' .

The viewing platform was closed but where there's a will , there's a way and this proved excellent .'The Funkturm Restaurant'.  A visit to Berlin is incomplete without investigating this amazing structure with it's links to early broadcasting and fine cuisine..

Guten Rutsch

         
Helena Mikas Wants To Say 

'A Very Happy NewYear To All '

Seasons Greetings 2012

A Very Happy Christmas To All 

A Very Good Hair Day In Berlin

Every year Berlin Sassoon salon ensures that all have a taste of Christmas fun on the last Saturday pre Christmas .
It never ceases to amaze me how creative these people are and it's a pleasure to go down and join in plus being allowed to film .
So it wasn't too difficult getting up at 7 am, then going out in bitterly cold weather to be there at 8-30am. En route it felt like Christmas , once there even more so and upon  Ieaving, the snow was falling . It still is and what can I say other than :-
"A VERY HAPPY CHRISTMAS" to all who read this blog or chance upon it. 

A Day Return to Milan .

City hopping once a month with Air Berlin is proving more fun than expected .
It's my reward system for overcoming sweet stuff and where others take mini  breaks , I view my monthly journey  as a 'bite size healthy diet'. Cheaper too .
I get to cities never visited , indulge my passion for photography and undertake lots of exercise packing in as much as one can prior to the return flight .Perhaps the greatest plus is that constant reminder as to how friendly and helpful ordinary people are . Forget the media ... there is a lot of hope for our world .

GNYBERLIN Visits Manchester .

This film by 'Luci West' has made my day.
A superb YouTube film maker, she too lives in Berlin and I subscribe to her channel.
Since embedding was enabled on the video I opted to share on my blog .
Luci's hallmark is the ability to produce sensational movies each one minute long .This is no easy task .
Manchester is my home city and it's a truth that  :-
"You can take the girl out of Manchester but you can't take Manchester out of the girl "
Her work here  is as good as any Christmas present in my eyes.
I hope you enjoy viewing what is a superb city and then why not view more of Luci's work at GNYBerlin on YouTube . You will enjoy the experience.
Thank you Luci for taking me home in just one minute.

Thought For Today

It's that time of year again. Frantic shopping and what to do next. It needn't be . Don't wait for New Year try this rule of thumb. There's no better time.

"Beginning today, treat everyone you meet as if they were going to be dead by midnight. Extend to them all the care, kindness and understanding you can muster, and do it with no thought of any reward. Your life will never be the same again."

Og Mandino

An Advent Greeting From Berlin

This is from Otto Hamborg and the Viertakter to all viewers and isteners . The most famous German Christmas Carol in blues form . Enjoy and may your advent be full of happiness .Look forward with hope to what is our world and make sure each and every one of us in what ever small fashion makes sure it stays so .For it is not the property of the powerful, or the rich it is everyone's. It is 'ours' minus nationality or politics .

An International Start To Advent 2012

 

 

This weekend coming is the start of Advent and you can celebrate it in truly international style should you wish .Forget cooking ,stress etc . :-) Above you see details from the Swedish Church who are having a two day fete. It promises to be lively. The Anglican Church will treat you to 'A Very British Christmas' with much on offer. After both these events on Saturday I'll be off at night to the Gendarmenmarkt where as well as more goods,food and drink there's entertainment. Saturday 19:30 Acki Hoffmann will be playing. A weekend of fun where you may well be able to get some of your presents not to mention good food. No pushing a shopping trolley around the supermarket. Let's hear it for Sweden, Britain and Germany and most of all for Christmas.

Stuttgart For The Day

This day trip special treat surpassed my expectations. Stuttgart is a fascinating city. Here are but a few images linked using Picasa editor . An iMovie of the amazing Glocken Museum will follow. Already I wish to return to see so much more. For example :- Friedrich Hundertwasser architecture , Theodor Heuss Museum , The Otto Dix Exhibition to name but three. A tip. Good walking shoes are a must in Stuttgart . The transport is excellent but the roads steep , oh so steep . 

Christmas in The Air .

On a delightful cold and misty day, to be well wrapped up was a must
Down in the city Ka De We was busy creating a winter wonderland for Advent which is almost here . Their decorations are always exquisite and it was with joy that I discovered this snowdome. Having paid and about to leave, there before me, was yet another snowglobe, different but rather lovely. Something tells me this is a Christmas to look forward to .
For any Berlin readers why not visit  St George's Church, Preussen Allee ?
1st December at 15-18H . A Very British Christmas Fete will be in  full swing with lots to eat,drink,  buy and win. I'm already in the party mood .

How To Break An Addiction

The video says it all .Many of us battle with 'addictions'. There are some who would say eating lots of sweet things is not dangerous or detrimental to health. It can be and was very much so for me . Now I've got it taped. The simple method can be applied to any addiction. It has to be stressed that the foundation for success is a) a desire to stop and b) a technique which is simple and visual. This helps one stay focused. Good luck to any viewers who try this . I'm finding it great fun .

The rescue of Teufelsberg

Jazz Brunch In Berlin

Yes the weather's a lot cooler, days shorter but, a plus is the weekend Jazz Brunch scene has arrived. Die Eins was Sunday's venue and it's fair to say this terrific Charlie Parker number, a favourite of mine had feet a tapping. A great time was had by all.

Almost Midnight - Halloween 2012

 

A beautiful moon,clear sky, Halloween ,waiting for midnight and who knows,remarkable happenings. Some things never lose their magic.

Schlegel ... A Man Of Vision and Truth

Where there is politics or economics, there is no morality.
Karl Wilhelm Friedrich Schlegel 1772---1829

A very appropriate quotation especially as Berlin has just had a visitation from the very untruthful former premier of Britain. His warmongering activities with George Bush gave him such an appetite for presidential status. So much so he is now touring and advocating an elected president of Europe. No prizes for guessing who he is putting forward. HIMSELF. 
Something tells me that Schlegel must have nodded and turned in his grave as Berlin was tainted by a Blair visitation.

AIRBUS Look To The Future .

This video made by AIRBUS is on YouTube. Embedding is allowed so sharing possible. Beautiful concept and fabulous filming .It leaves me in awe at the techno.
Now we have 4D , what next I wonder ?
As for aircraft -- yes I love them too .

Berlin Festival Of Lights 2012 Begins.

When you begin your day by breaking a toe the prospect of a nights filming in the city seems daunting. Yet, wearing my most comfortable pair of boots off I went and, believe it or not was so entranced the dodgy strapped up toe was forgotton. Fantastic atmosphere, great music plus astonishing light effects, lots of 3D too - proved just the right medicine.
This little snippet movie made up of stills is but a taste .The real stuff will take time using iMovie and since there are lots of events yet to film , may take a while.  Best check the link You Tube and Helena.
The festival is on until October 21st and well worth a visit .

WHAT IS IT ?

"This is greater than God 

This is more evil than the Devil

The Poor Have it 

The Rich need it 

But if you eat it you die ."

WHAT IS IT ?

answers by email to helenafoxylady@googlemail.com

White Rocks Beach Northern Ireland

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A beautiful beach , one of many in this fantastic country .

Helena On The Move

Posting has been impossible due to having been very, very busy , due to fun and travel. Aerlingus flew me to Dublin from where Wicklow and Wexford , Limerick and Kerry were  visited .The sea providing superb swimming. At Dingle Bay the setting sun was breathtaking. Only a couple of light showers and these left wonderful rainbows. Next a drive to Belfast where the new speedy ferry took me over to Scotland. The drive to the north east coast was impressive due to the huge mountains and rolling mist.Why Scotland ? To witness a marriage of two very lovely people . Now back in Ireland I'm enjoying the northern coast and it's difficult to concentrate due to watching a sea with huge crashing white waves . Stormy--true, spectacular-- extremely!
Film editing will have to wait .

Berliner Gauklerfest 2012

After the opening day of IFA here we have snippets of the Berliner Gauklerfest final day. Colourful, magical and as ever,fascinating.  Music played by 'Otto's Viertakter' will be uploaded to YouTube in a few days.

IFA Berlin 2012 Opening Day.

Best Viewed Full Screen or in YouTube and Helena What better way to end August than with a visit to IFA. As usual it surpassed itself. These are bit snippets of what is to be seen and experienced. The exhibition is huge but there are shuttle buses. I was on the go for 8 hours without a break for a snack. Thanks therefore to Panasonic for the cookery. Forget the press with their gloom and doom, concentrate on how technology is making our world even more wonderful and a lot of fun. Not only did I meet some fascinating individuals there is now a rather unusual shopping list which reads as follows :- a)toothbrush b)new camera c)pillow d) towel robe with iPod pocket e)washing machine f) TV screen with apps .All but c and d are produced by, who else, but Panasonic ...

Fly With Dell At IFA Berlin 2012

The entire day was brilliant .I was really in my 7th heaven surrounded by the worlds greatest techno. This fun video made by Dell must suffice for now. Have only just this minute 'landed' for a refuelling and about to take off .More to follow .Stay tuned in for flight status ..

Berlin Police - Friends Not Foes

A plus factor for Berlin has to be the Berlin Polizei. In my opinion a terrific police force with social welfare a large part of their mission. Through out the year they provide a superb service coding bikes (for free) and entering the details on a data base. Cycle theft is big business and the public are supported by the police to combat this. This was filmed today. The event was superbly organized and very well attended. After 'the naming of my bike' for data purposes it was off to drink a toast and enjoy a special Frühstück .

Coming Shortly,The IFA Berlin Ball.

Make a note of the dates for your diary and visit IFA Berlin. It's the world's largest consumer electronics trade fair and not to be missed . A place where 'having a ball' is guaranteed .

Fasanenstrasse Festival Berlin

Sunday was an extremely sunny day with the temperature rising to 36°C  . In Fasanenstrasse it seemed more akin to Tel Aviv with so much food to choose from, freshly pressed orange or pomegranate juice and music to get you dancing . Madness in such heat but fun.As a venue to try out the new hands free bracket it was perfect.
Hands free for eating,drinking and picking items up to examine. Then filming as I 'danced' ....apologies for the voice over , one could never call it singing,but it's a fact that Helena Mikas enters into the spirit of things. Once out of the circle back to concentration on filming and awareness of the microphone .. YOU HAVE BE WARNED ADJUST THE VOLUME .

No Hands Filming Whilst Riding A Bike

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Today has been  like a second birthday . I received a super chain strap to go on a new handbag , ideal for when riding my bike. Then a parcel containing a fabulous gadget ( 2 actually ) for my Panasonic Lumix Camera .These fit on my camera , this one  on a strap which enables me to wear it round my neck. Simplicity itself ( as are most superb inventions ) this enbled me to trial run it on my journey home . Not at all bad for a first go .When driving a car both hands should be on the wheel . With a bike, both hands on the handle bars. Saves accidents, broken bones, camera and worse . Hope you enjoy the little tour of Charlottenburg .  Not only is Berlin a city of trees , it's a cyclist's paradise .
By the way the second gadget is for use when filming in bad weather .....  

Berlin Bath Time

VIEW FULL SCREEN OR IN YOU TUBE
Filmed early yesterday evening this isn't brilliant  but unusal and very noisy.It was unexpected astonishingly wild rain and hail coming in all directions. Care of the camera lens took priority.Today I discovered it was a localized happening ... Who knows it may have been in answer to my prayers. I enjoy rain and storms such as this. After days of heat and humidity here was a gift from on high. Never have the streets looked so clean and fresh .

Berlin Beethoven Barenboim

Berlin is a city vibrant with life and culture. Situated in Charlottenburg is the Waldbühne, an open air theatre built in 1936 and a copy of 'Epidaurus' 3rd century BC. It seats 25,000 and ranks as one of Europe's largest concert venues. A concert, plus picnic basket makes for a superb evening. Daniel Barenboim, world famous musician and conductor is no stranger to Berlin especially in the world of Opera.Here you see him before the concert returning to the stage after sorting the sound. As founder and conductor of the West-Eastern Divan Orchestra ( assembled from young Israeli and Arab musicians) Barenboim has done much to use the power and passion of music to build bridges for peace.Sunday was just such an event when they played to a packed audience in the Waldbüne.The weather matched the music-perfect.As did the atmosphere ,again perfect. Beethoven's 3rd and 5th symphonies played with tremendous zest and superb accuracy.Something tells me that Beethoven would be more than pleased with our joy each and every time we hear his works .Sunday was no exception . Beethoven - Berlin and Barenboim share much .None are pretentious .They are timeless and most of all , 'themselves'. Quite an example. Now for my fun shot of the week.The picture on the right is that of the left but upside down .So clear is the reflectiion that on the R one is left wondering at the 'hole'

A Tiny Taste Of Northern Ireland

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The video says it all . 

A Year "Flies" By Into The Next

It's said that 'time flies' , even more so if you choose to spend time in flight on your actual birthday .
This time last week I was one year older but after being looked after by British Airways and British Midland it's true to say, felt younger .It was the start of a week taking in many places and most of all the north of Ireland, beautiful scenery and the freshest of air.
Magical moments to remember .Life is made up of millions of such . Priceless .

Golden Celebration For France and Germany.

2012, my Silver Jubilee , HM Queen Elizabeth II her Diamond Jubilee and now it's the turn of France and Germany. Their's is a very special Golden Birthday in the form of the Deutsch-Französisches Volksfest . Hard to believe but this action packed event sprang from a meeting  between General de Gaulle and Chancellor Konrad Adenauer .
Both men realized the importance of friendship and after their meeting the bonds between the countries got stronger .The very first Volksfest took place at Kurt Schumacher-Damm . After the allies left  in 1994 it was decided that the show must go on and so a permenant site was built .( same address ) If you have a 50th birthday this year between the 15th of June and 15th of July turn up with proof and a present of 50Euro  will be yours .On the 8th the actual birthday of the festival there is also a chance for all to try and win an iPhone being raffled . This video made from still shows a few of the rides . I did film on the Roller Coaster and the Frizbee but for some reason it didnt save .If you have never been here , try it . Let your hair down or sit watching the entertainment in the French Village whilst eating rather wonderful food .
**Now the video edited from live HD  digitalvideo Best viewed ful screen :
Sound is live from moment of filming.

Music Makes Berlin Go Round

Here are a few reasons for my recent lack of posting. Life has been pretty hectic with some astonishing musical events.Top of the list has to be West Side Story. If you're in Berlin  try and see it . Spectacular, it left me breathless and dancing . No wonder I needed to relax with a Buddy Bear in the middle of the Kudamm on Thursday. He even obliged by coordinating with my shoes . That's Berlin for you.

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Flying to Luxemburg is always pleasant and especially so with Swiss Air . Last week I left Berlin and this little video makes the Zurich - Lux stretch in record time .What was to follow was rather unusual and all I can say is 'Watch This Space '

The Queen's Jubilee Music in Berlin June 3rd 2012

Sunday in Berlin was an exceptional day for those attending St George's Anglican Church. Trinity Sunday,two baptisms and The Embassy Singers with their director Andrew Sims, who treated us to a programme of music used at the Coronation. As if that weren't enough  at the end of service, a sing along  rather akin to Last Night Of The Proms.I've to confess that due to standing and filming, silence would have been my best option. Mission impossible though when God Save the Queen, Rule Britannia and Land of Hope and Glory are to be enjoyed .
My profound apologies,but it's not so often you get such a chance to let your 'British hair down'. Too good to be missed.
An interesting fact. The drape over the organ balcony was part of the decorations within Westminster Abbey  for the 1953 Coronation. It was sent as part of an exhibition and was later purchased for the church.
After coffee it was ride the bike time when my singing  didn't do a thing save clear the traffic !

Diamond Jubilee Of Queen Elizabeth ll

Three of my greatest treasures . A coronation glass , a mug to mark the Queen's Golden Jubilee and then another to commemorate this, her Diamond Jubilee. The items from her Silver Jubilee were lost in transit when I moved from UK to Germany where Her Majesty
is much admired. Whilst having coffee this week came the question ,'had I ever considered changing my citizenship ? ' .  You can guess the answer :-
A very firm 'no'. As long as Britain has a monarchy , I'm proud to be British. For me they put the  'Great' in  Britain'. Queen Elizabeth continues to work for her country 60 years after her accession. A cause indeed to celebrate .

          LONG LIVE THE QUEEN .