Annie in wonderland

In a previous post, I may have seemed harsh on support workers, but social media awareness is essential for everyone involved: clients, their families, support staff, and agencies. If we're discussing social media, let's be accountable and suggest some solutions. There aren't any easy answers, but what's worth doing often isn't easy. We need to consider what we're sacrificing. For me, it’s my phone game time—not much, as it’s a time sink, but it’s also a time to rest. I have the luxury of internet access and a lot of freedom, so I've had to learn to use it wisely. I’ve lost jobs and caused harm to family and friends, which fuels my passion for internet safety. As someone born in 1984, I grew up in an analog world and witnessed the birth of the internet. During COVID lockdowns, I became addicted to the internet. Now, I actively monitor my internet time. There are other ways to learn, communicate, and connect with others. Plenty of low-cost or even free groups

There’s a concerning trend on TikTok where some support workers feel it's acceptable to publicly criticize higher-functioning clients. When clients push back or express concerns, they are often labeled as entitled. While entitlement can sometimes be an issue, such public criticisms devalue the profession. Burnout is very real for support workers, but so is the concept of masking for clients. Masking involves using neurotypical social skills, which can be exhausting and harmful when clients are not believed upon de-masking. This lack of belief can be exacerbated by support workers online who mistakenly see themselves as advocates without understanding that true allyship involves amplifying the voices of those they support. It’s important to recognize that the world has become more sensitive, and criticism should be taken constructively. However, some support workers with messiah complexes glamorize the industry and create a divisive environment by publicly criticizing others who may

  Australia's Overlooked Role in Nuclear History I was recently watching a Netflix documentary on the Manhattan Project, and it got me thinking. As an Australian, it's striking how often our own contributions to nuclear history and global conflicts are overlooked. While the documentary focused on the U.S. efforts, it made me wonder if producers at Netflix or other U.S.-based production companies are even aware of Australia's role in World War II, the Cuban Missile Crisis, and our significant involvement in nuclear testing. Australia played a crucial role in World War II, not just on the front lines but also as a testing ground for nuclear technologies. The British conducted nuclear tests on Australian soil, with sites like Maralinga becoming infamous. Yet, these projects are seldom mentioned in mainstream media. Instead, the narrative is dominated by stories from the U.S. and Europe. One often overlooked fact is that there were more bombs dropped on Darwin than on Pearl Har

This post is going to be a bit different. I’m not going to polish it with ChatGPT; instead, I'm using it to ensure I'm not breaching privacy or unintentionally being offensive. Here are the books I want to read, including some older ones, along with YouTubers who discuss these topics from different political perspectives. ### Books I Plan to Read: 1. **Freakonomics** by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner 2. **12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos** by Dr. Jordan B. Peterson 3. **The Gulag Archipelago** by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn 4. **Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies** by Jared Diamond 5. **How the Girl Guides Won the War** by Janie Hampton 6. **Manufacturing Consent: The Political Economy of the Mass Media** by Edward S. Herman and Noam Chomsky 7. **Exodus: A Memoir** by Deborah Feldman 8. **The Trap** by David Icke (Read with a critical mind) 9. **Sweet Poison: Why Sugar Makes Us Fat** by David Gillespie 10. **Tracking the White Salamander: The Story o

In an era dominated by digital information, media literacy is more crucial than ever. Understanding the differences between legacy media and new media, recognizing satire, navigating cancel culture, and being aware of media ownership and bias can help individuals make informed decisions and stay true to their beliefs. This blog post delves into these topics, offering insights on how to be a savvy media consumer. #### Legacy Media vs. New Media **Legacy Media:** Legacy media refers to traditional forms of media such as newspapers, television, and radio. These media outlets have been around for decades and are often characterized by: 1. **Gatekeeping:** Information is filtered through editors and producers, ensuring content meets certain standards. 2. **Credibility:** Established reputations often lend credibility to legacy media. 3. **Slower Pace:** News cycles are slower, with daily or weekly updates. 4. **Limited Interaction:** Audience engagement is minimal, typically limited to lett

Discovering JD Duggan Park: A Family-Friendly Oasis in Toowoomba Nestled in the heart of Toowoomba, JD Duggian Park is a hidden gem offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, accessibility, and cultural heritage. This blog post will guide you through the park's highlights, including the enchanting Butterfly Walk, family-friendly amenities, and the rich Indigenous history that adds depth to its charm. Whether planning a leisurely stroll, a family outing, or a photo expedition, JD Duggan Park has something for everyone. Accessibility: A Park for All One of the standout features of JD Duggian Park is its commitment to accessibility. The park's design ensures that people of all abilities can enjoy its serene environment. Here are some key accessibility features: Paved Pathways: The park boasts well-maintained, paved pathways that are wheelchair and stroller-friendly. These paths wind through the park, making it easy for visitors to explore without encountering obstacles. Accessib

 Nestled on the eastern outskirts of Toowoomba, Redwood Park offers visitors an escape into nature with its lush landscapes, diverse wildlife, and extensive walking trails. This 243-hectare park is a gem for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the serenity of the Australian bush. In this blog post, we'll delve into what you can expect when visiting Redwood Park, where the walking trails connect, what to bring, how to plan for emergencies, the wildlife you might encounter, and the efforts of the Friends of the Escarpment. What to Expect at Redwood Park Redwood Park is renowned for its scenic beauty and biodiversity. As you enter the park, you'll be greeted by a canopy of towering eucalyptus trees and an understory teeming with native plants. The park's varied topography includes steep slopes, gullies, and ridges, offering a range of experiences from tranquil strolls to challenging hikes. After some rain, the park transforms into a lush, ve

Nestled in the heart of Toowoomba, Newtown Park is a hidden gem that offers a delightful blend of history, beauty, and accessibility. As the home of the State Rose Garden, it showcases a stunning array of roses in full bloom, making it a paradise for flower enthusiasts and photographers alike. The park's rich history adds to its charm. During World War II, Newtown Park played a significant role, serving various wartime purposes. The building now used by Friends of the Rose Garden served as a guide hut until the 90s, reflecting the park's long association with the Girl Guides movement. Founded in 1910 by Lord Baden-Powell, the Girl Guides aimed to provide girls with opportunities to develop practical skills, leadership, and a sense of community. This movement quickly spread worldwide, including Australia, where it became an integral part of many girls' lives. Today, visitors can discover a hidden memorial dedicated to the animals that served in the war, a poignant reminder o

In the age of social media, where everyone strives to be a creator, influencer, or trendsetter, it's no surprise that mundane aspects of everyday life are being repackaged and presented as groundbreaking trends. TikTok, in particular, has become a hotbed for this phenomenon. Let's take a closer look at a few of these so-called trends: underconsumption, de-influencing, and crunchy moms, and call them what they truly are – just living. Underconsumption: Living on a Budget The latest buzzword making the rounds is "underconsumption." Sounds fancy, right? In reality, it's just a new way of saying "living on a budget." For generations, people have been managing their finances carefully, prioritizing needs over wants, and making do with less. It's called being financially responsible, not a revolutionary trend. Rebranding basic money management as underconsumption does a disservice to those who have been practicing it out of necessity, not for the sake of a

The Evolution of Media Literacy: From English Class to Everyday Essential In an era where information flows incessantly and media influence pervades every aspect of life, media literacy has emerged as a critical skill for navigating the complex landscape of modern communication. Once confined to the realms of English class, media literacy now demands attention as a standalone discipline. This shift is driven by various factors, including the rising cost of living, evolving family dynamics, and the pervasive influence of digital media. Let's explore this transformation and the influential voices shaping our understanding of media literacy today. The Changing Landscape of Media Literacy Traditionally, media literacy was embedded within the English curriculum, where students analyzed literature, evaluated sources, and developed critical thinking skills. However, the rapid proliferation of digital media has necessitated a broader and more focused approach. The ability to critically eva