Hot Discussions

The research show no loss in productivity and better mental wellbeing. What would be your thoughts on four-day work week?
Classy Christy
If you had Monday or Friday off, it would be like having a long weekend all the time. In medical professions and teaching professions, that would be hard to implement. I don\u2019t think that a four day working week would work for everyone.
Feb 08, 25

As a elderly citizen I have seen a lot of change over the years, some good & some bad. I may be looking through rose colour glasses but I think the past was much better than the present & I am concerned what kind of world my grandchildren will grow up in.
lippy loo
I agree. We had better manners, we cared about our fellow citizens, we were more inclined to help others. These days it seems the people just want to rip everyone down. Social media, facebook etc. show how ugly society has become. Selfish, self indulgent people who care little about anybody but themselves and their opinions. I also think TV has not helped with these vapid shows like Batchelor/ette, Love Island, MAFS, Big Brother etc. which only want ratings so they are designed to show the worst of people even probably scripted that way. The younger generation then seem to think it is OK to behave in this way, dress in these bits of materials and call it fashion etc. No class, no manners, no social conscience but so quick to judge every body else. Sad world and during this hard time I think it is coming out more and more. Yes there are some wonderful people out there who are selfless but I find them hard to find these days more and more.
I am not looking through rose coloured glasses to the past. It did have a lot more going for it.
Oct 22, 21

I have always said crooks are really dumb. To prove my point, people shoplift and them brag about it on social media. They also break the law in other ways and either brag to their friends and get turned in or involve people in the crime who can't keep their mouths shut. Crime doesn't pay any way you look at it because if someone does get away with it for a while they won't stop when they have enough because they will never have enough.
BLM
The Banking Scandal of 2008 proved how smart criminals are - especially WHITE-COLLAR-CRIMINALS. WHITE-COLLAR-CRIMINALS 'ripped' the world off for trillions of dollars - and 'none' of the money was recovered. However, every government on this planet had to payout trillions of dollars to stabilize CAPITIALISM - or CAPITIALISM will have collapse. Furthermore, in the late 19th century - ROBBER BARONS' stole and looted a country in broad daylight for decades - it is known as USA these days, and ROBBER BARONS are known as OLD MONEY these days. History has proved on numerous occasions that WHITE-COLLAR-CRIMINALS - always get away with the money and NEVER get CAUGHT! Other words - crime pays very WELL - lol!
Dec 09, 24

My trust in Dr's is going down. Do you trust them? Lately they just seem to push unnecessary medication/pills when in reality all I had to do was take up exercise and change my diet
BLM
All doctors are not created equal. I see a General Practitioner (GP). I completely trust my General Practitioner. When a health issue that is not part of her in-depth area of medical expertise - she will immediately refer me too the appropriate MD (example: Heart and blood vessels concerns - she will refer me to a Cardiologist - which she has done). Furthermore, she has been my GP for 26 years and counting!
Nov 25, 24

A friend did this: She got a piece of paper and folded it in half and anytime she thought of a reason to have children, she wrote it down on one side. And anytime she thought of a reason not to have children, she would write it on the other. When she had her doubts about not having children, she would look at the list, and it would remind her that the decision she made not to have children was right for her. Any advice? Will I regret not having kids when I get older?
Dee Jay Oz
I won\u2019t comment on whether people should or shouldn\u2019t have children. It\u2019s very much a personal choice. I\u2019m a Baby Boomer, now 66. I still clearly remember the day my in-laws visited, and MIL announced in no uncertain terms that couples who decided not to have children were the most selfish people in the world. I was 25 at the time, and had been married 6 years. We went on to have children, but I was disappointed that she had voiced her view in such a way, and created an \u201cexpectation\u201d in our relationship. Children are everywhere (nieces, nephews, children living in care, neighbours, friends\u2019 children \u2026.. ), you can quite easily have children in your life that aren\u2019t your own, and they are just as special.
Nov 10, 24

I was reading an article today. A travel journalist commented on an elderly couple walking arm in arm along the streets of a country town. He described this as an example of "enduring love" or "mobility support". Why are some people sceptical about affection between elderly people? I like to think that in an ideal world, there should be no age barrier to people showing affection to one another. What are your thoughts on this issue?
writerrochelle
"Elderly" is such an ugly way of describing Senior Citizens. I'm 76 years old, and I have the "heart" of a 16 year old. I'm still compassionate and caring, lively and loving, thoughtful and thrifty, and I have empathy and humility. I was a good kid, and now I'm a good "Baby Boomer". As one grows older in years, our minds stay young, even if our bodies don't and, given the chance, I could love someone just as much now, if not more, than I did when I was young! ;-D
Sep 20, 24

My son went down to his Australian bank today to withdraw $7,000 in cash....they asked him what he needed the money for (whose money is it?) and then told him that they didn't hold a lot of currency...and that if he needed to withdraw more than $4,000 he would need to make an appointment...he got the money out of them in the end...after a struggle.....is this the new normal for Banks?
Neo
They all do that now. What was considered a little bit of money is now considered lots. They are just abiding by cash laws which compels them to report suspicious transactions.
By law any transaction that is considered suspicious can be reported even if it is below $10000.
It is no longer "your money, Ralph".
Sep 13, 24

Today, everything has become so expensive in all the things that we used to do, that gave us pleasure. Many people must cut back due to not having enough income. When we do finally have a few extra pennies in our wallets & you finally decide to take yourself or your family for a night out. It is fun & enjoyable on occasions to enjoy the experience & being served by someone else for once. Why is it at the end of the meal it can be spoilt by a staff member mind you who is...
David137
Tipping or giving tips over here in New Zealand, is not considered a common thing. It's belongs as part of the america culture, & over in the US. Sure if some people wish to tip alright, not for me. They'll see I like their business if they get repeat business from me or not.
Jul 28, 24

In this day and age, so many things have changed. Children's lives are so different from what mine was in the 50s and 60s. I can't even relate to their lives. Because the world is so different, children need to learn things that I never needed to know. What do you think we need to teach our children for them to be the best they can be in this modern world?
Len G
Like the Aretha Franklin dong said RESPECT. I have seen children are severely lacking in that department
Jun 19, 24

John Cleese recently pointed out that anyone who is REALLY good at what they do appear to think that only about 10 to 20% of all the other people who do that job are really any good ... be it doctors, plumbers, scientists, nurses, surgeons or chefs. If so, that is pretty scary. What do you think? Is that right in areas you have worked in?
BLM
One, who is John Cleese....Two, my jobs called for civil service written exams based on experience or school - high school or college. Three, you had to score in the high nineties out of a hundred score - scoring a hundred was a perfect score. Four, the incompetents were weaved out - during civil service written exams. Five, over ninety-nine percentage of all the other people who do my job were really good. Last, over hundred thousand people who still do my job are still good at it!
Jul 07, 24

I have just acquired four-step grandchildren. Their father is a major part of their lives, seeing them every week. I live in another state and will probably only see them once or twice a year. I am not sure how to go about this. Should I be buying them birthday and Christmas gifts? They are pretty spoilt children, courtesy of wonderful grandparents, who do so much for them and absolutely adore them.
Bugalugs
Drop the "Step" tag. Treat then as if they are your own biological grandchildren. They may not be of your blood but they are still your grandchildren.
Jun 08, 24

If someone wrongs you, no matter how, do you seek vengeance, pay them back, or get them however you can, to satisfy your wrongdoing or do you turn the other cheek, forgive them, and move on with your life?
CteDimples
Probably will turn the other cheek and forgive but will always be cautious and things between us will never be the same again!
May 19, 24

Taking care of the species we have on the Earth makes sense...bio diversity is important....but bringing back things that were extinct...originally by back breeding...and now by science...does that make any sense?...we have evolution...these creatures do not belong here...aren't we just playing God when there are so many more important things we could be fixing? (and spending the money on)
BLM
By 'wanton' killing off of other species on this planet - most famous example is the dodo bird - we/humans have been playing GOD for centuries! If evolution actual works, then humans will permanently disappear from the planet - one day. Which will give other species the opportunity to thrive and the planet time to heal itself!
May 13, 24

In some cases, though, a relationship might not have the potential to be rekindled. In these instances, it can be healthier for each partner to focus on themselves and move on. A lost love may return, but only if both partners are ready and willing for that love to return and the relationship to continue. What are your thoughts? Can lost love ever come back?
Susan KTC
We all have individual lessons to learn in our life journey and sometimes it just isn\u2019t the right time for a relationship, and as noted by several of you, love can be rekindled. My circumstances were different, I found my life time partner in my early 50\u2019s, after several learning lesson experiences and two children, once those relationships ended, there was no going back!
Feb 28, 24

I don t play any gaming on the internet Except for games on Rewardia. I got two accounts on my bank statement for $99.50 they were subscriptions to Gaming sites My banking online has now been shut down and my debit card destroyed while they investigate. I really don t feel safe. Now very time I m online Is this going to be a regular problem ? Or will someone come up with a solution?
BLM
Scammers are white-collar-criminals. White-collar-criminals ARE NOT severely punished as blue-collar-criminals in the USA (where I reside)! Are scammers going to be a regular problem going forward - YES (there are numerous ways to get anyone personal data)! The only person who can make it more difficult - for scammers to steal your money - is you. I do not use credit cards or my bank's debit card to pay bills online or offline. I do not use my bank's checks (since your account number and routing number is at the bottom of the checks - which is all the info a scammer needs to hack your bank account). I pay all my bills by USPS's money orders which are expensive - but they come with two receipts. I use cash for daily purchases. My credit score sucks - because I don't have any debt - but I have never been scammed/hacked (it
is a constant juggling act to keep your monetary info security). Furthermore, I have a landline phone with twenty-first century technology but does not have an internet connection - my landline phone cannot be hacked! Other words, you have to make your digital footprints as small as possible - so a scammer will not (hopeful) notice your digital footprints online or offline.
Feb 09, 24

Humans are, by nature, social animals. That's why we care what others think of us: We want to belong, to be accepted, and to bond with other members of our social "pack." Caring about other people's opinions of us is a survival mechanism as old as humanity itself. I'm very curious about your thoughts. Well ... what do YOU care about?
Angie
The older I get, the less I care about what other people think of me! I care about the health, happiness and safety of my daughter, myself and our animals
Feb 06, 24

Are the younger generations losing a lot of the jobs skills we used to have? I know the world is changing and becoming more tech-savvy. But we seem to be losing a lot of the skills that Baby Boomers used to have.
Susan 1441337
I think most of the jobs that that our know senior generation did have either been taken over by technology or moved to another country because they have cheap labour. I also believe it reflects on the quality of goods we receive from other countries. In turn all these products are garbage and thrown into the dump and we wonder why we have no room left to dispose of things. I feel old saying this but things definitely aren't made the way they used to be. I feel like we need to bring these jobs back to our own countries and stop buying off shore garbage. My dad said this many years ago before he passed and he was so right but yet our government keeps letting this stuff come in I'm sure these other countries are lining the politicians pockets. There's no jobs here for people that may not have the smarts to do IT stuff. I feel like we need to go back to the way things used to be. There's so many homeless people or people living paycheck to paycheck and the government doesn't care as long as they are getting richer. This is a sad sad world we live in imo
Jan 26, 24

Do you think that when being with someone and them being on their phone the whole time is rude? It makes me feel that whoever they are texting is more important than me and what I have to say! Do we need a whole new set of manners to fit in with the technology? Also, when I'm out and people are talking in public, I wonder if they're talking to me, but they're on their phone 24/7. Do they even text in their sleep? I think it's just rude! Anyone agree?
AMUSICALTONY
The whole concept of "good manners " went by the wayside when we lost the ability to punish our kids with a swift kick in the pants. The current generation have no respect at all. Rewarding phone use? That's subjective. If someone is in conversation with me, I expect their full attention. People in public? Well they're not disrespecting me personally, so I overlook that. Although hands-free calls can be annoying. I was visiting someone at a hospital a while back. I got into the lift with rather attractive doctor. As the doors closed she said, "Hi, how are you?" As there was no one else in the lift I said, "Good thanks." She, then stunned me by asking what I was doing on the weekend. I told her it depended on my wife. She then swung her eyes toward me and indicated that she was using a hands-free device. I was so embarrassed.
Dec 10, 23

The person who means more to you than anything else in the world, drops a bombshell on you... they're moving away - out of town... away from you. They're wanting to travel the world or have met someone who has asked to join them in another country/state, or they've been offered a new job opportunity., or they've just come to a stage in their lives where they're keen to explore new horizons... without you. How do you cope with the loss of no more daily contact (i.e. you...
JANN R
I would say to them go for it I am always with you as your friend have a good time and enjoy your new life I will always be your friend no matter what you do
Dec 29, 23

The last few weeks, I have been in discussion with a tradie with regards to removing trees and moving a shed to the back fence. We had not finalised anything because of the situation of the shed. The next time I talk to him, he tells me he went on my property and chopped all my trees and moved the shed slightly which is not what we had discussed. The shed was to go at the back. They never gave me the date or when they could do the job. It was never finalised. They...
Hohum
It seems the tradie merely quoted and had not been given the go ahead.
If there was no agreed price, I certainly wouldn't pay. from the facts you've given there was never a contract, verbal or otherwise.
Nov 12, 23

My mum was a shorthand typist at Dunedin hospital She also worked on the telephone exchange then she became a bank teller which will probably become a thing of the past soon too My grandfather worked on the railways in the King country and enjoyed reminiscing his young days What job titles do you know of that don't exist in 2021
Elizabeth J 447888
What about the dunny man, before the days of sewerage. Yes, I am that old. I have a faint memory only of those days. The man who used to bring ice for ice chests in the days before refrigerators.
Oct 13, 21

NZ had recently General elections. Turns out, similar as previous years, not everyone go to vote. Yet there are lots of people who complain afterwards. I always say election is the time when people actually do have a 'voice' and might be able to make a difference in their country, but about 20 to 25% will choose not to vote. I bet those are the people who complain the most. Do you think elections really should be compulsory or leave the citizens the option to choose?
Granny2026
No voting should not be made compulsory. People should be allowed to chose.Wether to vote or not. If they don't vote they shouldn't complain
Oct 22, 23

We have all heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. What did you have for breakfast? Did you eat at home, at school, at work, in the car, in a restaurant, where? What part of the world do you live in? Is your breakfast a typical breakfast in your part of the world?
Lynn
Let's not. Only joking. I cannot do breakfast however the amazing part is when on holidays and away from home that is the first thing I have. Go figure!
Oct 18, 23

With the cost of living being so much more higher these days, what's a good (or realistic) amount of extra curricular activities kids should be doing, or how much are people spending or willing to spend of said activities? (Sport, music instruments etc)
Spotty
We go hiking and often see parents take the children of all ages hiking. It is a great family time and extra curricular activities for them
Sep 26, 23

I have wondered what the reasons behind why I meet more women who start menopause younger and younger. I started just after turning 30. It seems that there is more to this hormonal change in our community of women than meets the eye. Wondering if our meat we are consuming are filled with growth hormones given to the animals before they reach out supermarkets and how it is affecting us in the long run.
APB
Fertility in both males and females is dropping at a quite surprising rate...it might even be as high 5% or more per generation...I suspect the planet has had enough of us....
Sep 18, 22

This is the most controversial topic. One like dogs and the other like cats. Or both? It seems like no one can win, but so many people have their own opinions!
Christine M 323842
Like them all except for the ones that people dress up in stupid clothes and carry around in handbags.
Sep 10, 23

I have struggled to: 'squeeze whilst pushing down AND turning' a toilet cleaner lid, that once finally off, I left off! What do you think are the worst 'childproof' lids to get off / containers to get into?
Andrew C 287196
Not "child proof", but the tin cans with the pull tab lids are often extremely difficult to open. :-(
Mar 12, 23

I have started watching the paranormal shows on television. Not sure if I believe, but it is entertaining. Have you ever seen a ghost, spirit, shadow person, etc.? Have you ever had a paranormal experience?
Therese M 73305
Most definitely I have photos with orbs and faces in them I get the smell of my sons after shave from time to time. I here them walking around at night . My lights flicker and my music plays up often it gives me great comfort knowing my dad and boys still are around and I know I'll be with them all one day
Jun 08, 23

What's a TV series you watched that you found really gripping/can't wait til the next episode?
MacAddict
The more channels you have, the more you watch. The more you watch, the less time you have for exercise. The less you exercise, the less fit you become (and possibly fatter.) And more unhealthy.
May 30, 23

Often we hear from others like: "I will be happy if I have some certain amount of money". Well, some amount can give us a comfortable life, but does it make us happier? If we had all the money I wanted, how would it be? Let's see at least three of the pros and cons: Pros: Money is monumental work that keeps me busy and productive. Money allows me to buy something I always wanted but could not afford. Money brings respect in society. Cons:Lack of family...
block head
Money makes everyone happy. If you have any spare, I am only too happy to take it.!!!
Will give it a good home.
Mar 19, 23

Always a family favourite topic is the one of the child with the unusual arrival into this world Some are genuinely scary but have a great outcome, thankfully ! I was 2 weeks overdue, which my mother was not pleased about so impatiently she decided to take some cod liver oil followed by a hot bath... Said to bring on labour, which indeed it certainly did! As the hospital was down the rd, she decided to walk. Middle of the night, raining, she was squirming in...
BLM
Because of racial segregation (DEEP SOUTH) - I was born in my parents' house - Blacks (AT THAT TIME) could not use the local hospitals (WELCOME TO AMERICA). It was touch-and-go for two weeks (MY MOTHER HAD TO PERFORM A CESAREAN SECTION OPERATION ON HERSELF) - obvious - my mother and me - survive the ordeal!
Jan 13, 23

People are always fond of hearing the word being rich or becoming rich. So, for us to be rich, we need to have a lot of wealth. But, the question is, how much wealth do we need to be rich? The answer is different for everyone, and it really depends on your lifestyle and needs. Some people are happy with two cars and an apartment in an expensive neighbourhood while others want a private jet and a villa in Monaco. So how does one become rich? The answer is...
Tom S Qld
When wealth is lost, nothing is lost; when health is lost, something is lost; when character is lost, all is lost.
Everything in moderation, and there's a perfect balance in this life if we can find it.
Jan 01, 23

Every time I check the balance of my retirement savings and kiwi-saver, they are heading south. I am over retirement age but still working, so find the current situation very distressing. Don't own a home and honestly wonder if I will ever be able to afford to retire. Considering closing my kiwi-saver and other retirement schemes and putting the money into a bank deposit account where it at least eRn something What are other people's thoughts?
Glenystas
After reading some of the comments below, makes me realise How lucky I am. We own our home, I have a Dept of Vet Affairs pension, Hubby is currently on jobseeker kind of payment but is experiencing ill health (nothing major). We don't drink or smoke, we enjoy a few hobbies: I love crafts like knitting (make some presents or sell items) we both like reading (library) He is into golf (Budget allows a regular game) He likes jigsaws... had so many and they didn't sell on marketplace so we have started up a jigsaw exchange at a local hall. I guess that retirement comes down to if you are self funded or if you can manage on pension, have a good budget and stick to it.
Oct 29, 22

The main difference is you cannot have one without the other. Kindness simply proceeds in Gratitude, they both go hand in hand. How do you practice Kindness and Gratitude? Notice good things, look for them, and appreciate them. Always express gratitude, write it down or thank someone.
Bugalugs
In an ideal world Kindness would always be followed by Gratitude. In today's "ME First. Last and Always" world, Kindness is not always followed by even an acknowledgement - a simple "Thank You" is enough. If you are a Male, try opening a door, or standing aside to let heavily laden woman in/out and the best you might get is a snarl or verbally abused for being condescending!
Oct 08, 22

I work in retail. I love my job because I am the last person the customer sees before they leave the store. I think we should always be kind to one another because everyone is fighting a battle that we don t know. So if we can make a difference in someone s day, that s what life should be about
Bugalugs
A smile costs nothing so why not use them?
What I find Most Annoying are those customers who pay no attention whatsoever to the person serving them - particularly in Supermarkets. These Female & Male louts spend the entire time on their damned mobile phones - discussing, Sandra C, Their Private Lives, they make no attempt to respond to the Check-out operator, when the goods are put through they wave their phones over the eftpos terminal, wait long enough to see if their payment has been accepted (when not they blame the store staff & seem to think they are responsible for their credit/debit card being maxed out) then they simply walk away. No Smile. Most certainly NO "Thank You". It is the Customers who are so often extremely rude and if the indifference we sometime experience (it disappears when we speak with then thank & smile) irks then maybe we should remember those Serving us are Real People and it is as a direct result of OUR Indifference to them which makes them indifferent to us!
One of the Most soul-destroying jobs and one of the lowest paid ones, are those unfortunate Women and Men who spend their day swiping goods past a scanner in our Supermarkets.
Give them a Smile, Say "Hullo", "Good Morning/Afternoon" and Thank them for their Service - they do appreciate it and will respond in a Friendly way.
Aug 11, 22

I remember a time not so long ago where many went to work with a box of tissues and continued working, does anyone think this will ever happen again?
Pongo
I’ve never had a day off in my life when I had a cold. Now I’m retired a cold never stops me doing what I want to do
Jun 16, 22

During these days I noticed that the economy in the country has entered a state of inflation, and prices are constantly rising, especially the energy sector, According to my follow-up to local and international news, I realized that global economy has entered a critical stage. What are the steps that may limit the deterioration of the economy in the country? What did you do during the last period to maintain your financial balance ?
Michelle S 553303
This inflationary rise is by design in order to crash the economies of the world and destroy the fiat money system so that the WEF can bring in their Fourth Industrial Revolution and confirm their "Great Reset" which will cause a completely digital economy to replace the present democratic countries and bring in the NWO. Anyone who hasn't been paying attention to these psychopaths ought to because the end game is to cause a global famine that would lead to their being able to reduce global populations by more than 2/3rds and get rid of us "useless eaters"! The time is rapidly approaching when families will have to make a choice between paying the mortgage or rent or eating. It is THAT serious. But TPTB don't want riots on their hands so they have already destroyed the health of billions around the globe with their deadly shots, falsely labelled "vaccines" and in a 12 month period from, I believe, February 2021 to February 2022 the US suffered as many deaths in the working age population than died in the entire Vietnam war. The millenials are dropping like flies especially from cardiac issues. This is an absolute fact but you won't hear it on MSM. The hyperinflation will render the currency of virtually every country useless just like In Venezuela and Zimbabwe and Yugoslavia in the 1990's. The war in Russia and Ukraine is merely a distraction and someone to blame for this manufactured shortage and supply chain issues, but they have existed for far longer than just a few months. If you can afford to stock up on foods like beans, grains, pasta's and tinned foods do it IMMEDIATELY. Same applies if you have the capacity to pay extra on your mortgage or rent. A global crisis far worse than the Great Depression is coming and by later this year even MSM won't be able to hide it. Mock if you like but I have plenty of other things to do rather than spread lies on a survey platform. It's going to be HORRIFIC!
May 02, 22

'Guns don't kill people, people kill people', is what I have been hearing since almost forever. I live in America, where it is a Constitutional Right to own a gun. Yet, with the rise in ownership of assault weaponry and the rise of mass killings, some want to know if this is a good thing. While others blame it on evil people, who possibly would have killed anyway, gun or not. Your opinions on this is sought. Thank you.
Gaza
We have a lot less murders per population than the US here in OZ with the strict gun laws, doesn't that tell you something.
Oct 04, 21

When you shop for purchases, do you just buy it straight away or wait for sales? I only buy things that are on sale and wait for things to be so, because I think if retailers can sell things at sale prices for 50/70% off then we are being ripped off paying full price What are your thoughts?
Saara F
Sometimes I pay full price when I need something specific urgently otherwise I wait for sales especially online there is always a sale to be found.
Mar 22, 22

My almost 19 year old grandson came to stay overnight, and while it was lovely to see him, he never let his phone out of his sight. Even eating meals, the phone was right there, and he was watching it and constantly touching it. It goes everywhere with him and he is always looking at it, laughing at it and talking on it. It kept making "tweets" I think they are, and even while watching TV he was still tapping away at it. I can't really blame him because both...
Crazy Chef
Confiscate the dang thing, I've noticed kids destroy each other while the bloody zombie parents are staring at the phone without even flinching.
Mar 17, 22

My husband just passed and while the service was beautiful the cost was very high even though it was a basic funeral. What do others think it is worth pre-paying
Grommie
Our family have a particular stance about funerals. Funerals are for the living, not the dead. People attend funerals because they see it as "the thing to do". We come into the world and just about no one knows, so why not leave the same way? Who benefits from funerals?
Many people who attend funerals are hearse chasers after a free lunch.
I know of a funeral director whose wife runs a flower shop and they have a daughter who is a caterer. Talk about tie up the whole swindle.
If you prepay, the money just sits there, earning nothing. If the funeral director decides to sell the business, often you'll find the new operator pays you back your money because it has moved away from being enough to cover the cost. Or worse, they say nothing and send your family an additional bill.
Mar 09, 22

In 2017--2018, in Australia, there were about 17, million... Aussies.. prescribed medication. We are a pill popping --nation... like so many! I understand that many do need prescribed medication..for one reason or another, but haven't we become to reliant on prescribed medication? The cost to each individual Government must be enormous...for those who get subsided medication. Big pharma making billions. Do we really need some of these medications? Aren'...
NZNaturalKiwi
I've tried the alternative treatments for my issues but they just don't work. I have used alternative medications in the past but sometimes you need the pharmaceuticals
Jan 24, 22

Since we are nearing the Halloween season, it would be interesting to know which ghosts or ghouls people are afraid of or what spooky experiences they have encountered with ghosts.
'smee,SWQ!
After I lost my Daughter she kept coming to me wanting me to join her...it nearly killed me but in the end I was advised to firmly advise her I was not ready yet and I never saw her again (although I sort of wish I did!)
Oct 21, 21

Due to Social expansion and invasion in our kids lives, thanks to Tik Tok, Reddit, and Amino Chat: do you believe these forums are bad influences, teaching atrocious behavior and that lacking all respect for authorities much less themselves that they will not let go of their disrespectful behavior they've grown accustomed to? How do you think we can fix this problem as parents now?
Christina C 466456
It's the people around kids that influence kids the most. Not necessarily technology. Their friends, siblings, parents, school, community and online community which they have exposure to, influencing their thoughts. We're social creatures after all. It's up to parents to teach their children right from wrong or what is disrespectful and steer them in the right direction. Taking the time to educate your children will help them to make informed decisions so they can decipher what is rubbish and what is meaningful/important/useful information.
Investing more time in children pays dividends which is probably why 'back in the old days' kids had a more respectful culture - there were more stay at home mums. Distant parents = distant kids.
If you're worried about screen time, find out what they're passionate about and find a corresponding hobby so they can develop useful skills in the process (if they like gaming teach them about game development/3D modelling or if they like fashion teach them about marketing/sales, design school or architecture or chemistry in beauty products or how to make beauty products etc), or get some exercise (if it's martial arts, dancing or skateboarding etc). Take the time and find a useful way in which they can occupy their thoughts, challenge themselves and develop some useful life skills in the process.
Oct 02, 21

What does it mean to live? Does it mean simply to exist? I guess Oscar Wilde speaks about one's aspiration, desire to live and to create, wanting to do more than move on from one day to the next, and the fact that many people settle in a routine and refuse to get out of it. So what does it mean to merely exist as opposed to truly live, embrace each moment of life?
Imperia S '' PIER''
In my case, the worst thing I did was to retire from work, when one is young the energy is still running high, but once work/employment is put aside and the sleep-ins get better and better, the less you want to do, and now that I am old I wish that I could still do what I use to do 20 years ago, I ride my bike down to the beach 2 days a week if not raining, and now that I hooked on this site, I find myself rushing my house keeping and back on here.... It's hard to grow old and not fall into a routine
Jul 07, 21

Do you think good-looking is a must when people find a boyfriend/girlfriend on dating apps? Or it would be more with how people communicate on these apps? And how many percentage do you think people are serious from dating apps?
Lachelle B
Total joke. Ever seen The Bachelor, The Bachelorette, Who wants to marry a Millionaire, etc? EVERYONE is good looking. It's not based on love or the possibility of love. At least show some diversity, a big person, a blind person, a paraplegic, real people would be good. Good looks fade eventually so you shouldn't be thinking so shallow and be with that person for who they are.
Jul 20, 21

Have you made your plans for retirement or did you? What are they? For the first months, I was bored so did relief teaching and volunteered with several community organizations. I joined an agency and found myself doing commercials for TV as well as stage productions as 'the old lady'. I now run acting courses for the Agency. I became a tutor and committee member for my local U3A. I began writing articles for newspapers and magazines. I traveled and began a little...
Bugalugs
I wasn't ready for retirement. I was forced into it by the female director of the Government agency I had been working for, she decided she did not want any males in the agency she was in charge of. She replaced me with THREE women - of course given the absurd structure of the Public Service it meant her Salary increased by a very substantial amount - the more staff she had under her control the bigger the salary. But I made the most of it, had a few part-time jobs until I moved into caring for an older family member. As Joe B says, I don't seem to have any spare time at all now - mind you being part of Rewardia takes up any spare time I have!
Jul 17, 21

Should Australia, US and New Zealand follow the UK by banning Petrol and Diesel vehicles from 2030?
Christine M 323842
Actually ban all cars. And ban those Lycra ridden cyclists too. I think horses would be better, or walking, or just normal people on riding bikes.
Dec 08, 20

This is a simple dish to put together. It is very popular in our cooking school. The grinding with a mortar and pestle can be a bit hard, but you can throw the ingredients into a mixer. It does however lack a bit of flavour that way. The presentation is a bit rough, but I actually used the mix to make lemongrass chicken pies. They are always in demand in our bar. *1 kg diced chicken. *3 sticks lemongrass (bruised). *Bay leaf & lime leaf. *400 ml coconut milk. *3 tbs...
Elizabeth J 447888
Sounds absolutely delicious, but i am on a trial drug, which is a weightloss drug, and I have completely lost my appetite. It is wonderful to have all these recipes saved in a file on Rewardia for reference any time in the future.
1 week ago
In the last 100 years, hundreds of thousands of movies have been made. Some good - Many Bad - Plenty Exceptional Old Black & White have many great and special movies as well. Many Eras of Color Movies also And Modern Blockbusters and Surprising Low Budget Winners ! ----------------------------------------------- (Many as you like - but post them one at a time - give others some space)
Cindy N 315785
I have a few favourites. The Rose with Bette Midler, Flashback with Dennis Hopper, Mask with Cher, Sister Act films.
Mar 22, 26

Ok, what's the deal with AMAZON and GOOGLE constantly charging $2.00 for subscriptions etc that you don't authorize, and then you have to argue and plead with them to reverse it I've now twice had AMAZON charge me for a prime membership when I've clearly not asked or ticked any boxes allowing it They did it again the other day and all I did was look at an item, place it in the cart to think about it and then when I decided to remove it I...
Angie
Years ago my daughter wanted something off Amazon and I was ok with giving her my credit card number and I supervised her while she purchased online. Several months later I noticed for the previous 2 months $35 was coming out of my account for Prime that we didn\u2019t sign up for. Trying to get in touch with Amazon to question this, and try to cancel it was damn near impossible. I couldn\u2019t get through to anyone and due to my lack of computer skills I just kept going around in circles and it was extremely stressful!
They ended up taking over $300 from my account, we never did use the Prime account and I never ever got reimbursed!
And finally when the payments stopped (my daughter\u2019s Dad sorted it out for me)\u2026
\u2026.blow me down, the buggers started it up again the following year!!!!
I\u2019ve not ever used Amazon ever again!!!
They know they can get away with it to those who aren\u2019t tech savvy online.
Still to this day I\u2019m owed close to $400 for a service we never used or even signed up for.
3 years on and I\u2019ve never used them again or even tapped the word Amazon into the search bar ever again!!
Hate Amazon!!
Feb 07, 26

I am looking for a new dog food brand for my adult beagle. I usually purchase Taste of the Wild - does anyone have any similar recommendations for quality but around $100ish price point for roughly 10kg bag of dog food?
lys
Sorry 10 cats and I buy fresh and usually cook for them. Aldi brand is the only can food and raw meat they will eat.
Jan 18, 26

Is there anything you plan to do once you are retired that you could never do while employed? Do you want to travel or maybe achieve a bucket list?
Teri 1282723
I've completed my bucket list. And, yes, there is one thing that I can think of that I can do retired but not while working.... I can sleep in until 8 if I want to:) and be to bed when I want to, take a nap in the middle of the afternoon or even evening if I want to. Short answer - sleep.
Dec 17, 25

Do you send your child or children to school on the last day before the holidays with a small gift for their teacher? If you do, what is the most amount of money you would spend? I try to spend under 10 dollars on a nice jar of jam for their holiday breakfasts.
Lachelle B
Never did. But I do buy a dozen beer each Christmas for the rubbish collectors. Rain, hail or shine they still do their dirty work.
Dec 19, 25

The idea that we don t tend to make judgements based on reasoning and evidence. We start with a hunch and go on a quest to have our existing beliefs confirmed. If we find a piece of evidence that does the trick, we can stop and present said evidence in case we have to justify why we believe what we believe What do you think?
Mooi
I\u2019m confused. I don\u2019t know what you are saying. I may be having a bad day but I\u2019m lost.
Nov 17, 25

Surely I'm not the only getting constant requests to leave a review anytime I do, well pretty much anything!!, I even get Government departments emailing me to rate my experience with renewing a passport, or the Tax department call centre. This is all good and well, but I feel like I'm being nagged to give a review all the time. If I have a good experience....I'll give a good rating, otherwise Leave me alone!! What are your experiences??
MoB
Why give a review, if the company are doing a good job they will get return customers. If they do a crap job they won't get any return customers. That should give them the information they require, no need to give special praise, they are doing the job they get paid to do, that's all the praise they should expect.
Oct 17, 25

Weddings are often talked of as a day for the bride and groom (especially the bride) to be celebrated. But I feel most of the time it is more for the family. To follow tradition and make everyone happy. I certainly feel like that about my wedding. Half of the attendees will be my fiancee's extended family, most of whom I do not know, and there are several last-minute changes I had to make because of his family expectations. Which I would have been completely fine with if...
MIKE 1
SO TRUE, IF YOU COULD HAVE ALL THE MONEY THAT WAS SPENT ON THIS DAY AND JUST HAD A SMALL ONE WITH TWO FOR FOUR FRIENDS OVER, THINK HOW MUCH MONEY YOU WOULD SAVE //////// $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ FOR MAYBE A HOUSE OR ANYTHING YOU NEED TO START YOUR NEW LIFE WITH THE MAN YOU LOVE. THANK YOU O/K MIKE
Oct 07, 25

Many people struggle with the choice between following their passion or choosing a stable career. A passion-driven career often brings joy, motivation, and personal fulfilment, but it may not always provide financial security or long-term stability. On the other hand, a stable career offers steady income and security, which can reduce stress and support future goals, but it may not always bring happiness or a sense of purpose. The balance between passion and stability depends on...
keimanzero
I did a damned boring job myself for half a century and I was paid very little. After almost 30 years with the same employer I finally got a raise to $7.47 an hour and I was so proud. Then they dropped the bomb on me that same afternoon! My job description was being terminated and that meant after the layoffs and the rehiring began, I'd not be hired back again. Instead at age 59 in 2008 I was force retired and now I struggle with only SS and a tiny pension each month which si why I do asinine online surveys for next to nothing- just to live! $$$ USD is the important thing! Ask any team's players!
Sep 15, 25

Working a four-day week reduces burnout and improves job satisfaction, a new study has found. Do you see any positive impacts of having a four-day work week?
Andrew C 287196
It's the usual nonsense that has not been properly thought through.
1. If people can do the same amount of work in one less day, then they are obviously not working properly now - too much slacking off. The company could enforce proper working and get rid of some of the workers ... saving money (not that the company would lower the prices of their products / services).
2. If people are working properly now and getting "stressed", then removing one day means they'll have to work harder to get the same amount of work done and get even more stressed.
3. If people are working properly now and a day is removed, less work will be done, so the company will have to employ extra people to fill in the gap ... and therefore raise prices of their products / services.
Aug 03, 25

Successful people have several common behaviours. They stay positive and motivated, finding meaning in their work and fully committing to their tasks. They have clear goals, think constructively, and are goal oriented. What is your experience? What kind of people succeed in life?
Purple Cat 154
It depends on what your definition of sucess happens to be?
Is it surviving in your work environment despite having to deal with difficult, unsupportive or destructive people. Is it staying in 1 job and getting a regular pay so you can afford a mortgage, buy a home, have a family ? Is it climbing the ladder to more responsibility and increasing pay? Or is it surviving a difficult family with trauma and recovering from using,alcohol, drugs, co-dependance, care taking others and being exploited by others because you are too kind hearted? Or is it finding peace through pray, meditation, finding balance by walking and spending time in nature? Or is it Love empathy of your near and dearest and being Kind to all peole that you meet regardless of live's challenges? I suppose we all have are own definitions? Live is challenging for everybody in one way or another, so I think we all deserve a medal for having a go and trying to do as best we can. It is not a race or a competition or trying to be better than someone else. I would like a t-shirt to say I survived and despite enormous challenges I have not lost hope or the ability to be understanding and gentle with myself or others.
Aug 16, 25

I have seen estimates online of how much people think you need to retire, but as long as you want a modest retirement, you could have saved a lot less and still retire. How much do you think you really need?
Sandyboo
I guess no one ever heard the saying we could never have enough money. I'm a lone with a small pension and i was on disability since i was 40 so my social security is very small and i have everything i need and never done without. So just live your life and quit worrying about what you might need, and you will be just fine
Jul 02, 25

OK...I used to be a Travel Agent way back in the day. Do people still use travel agents at all?!?! If no, what are the best Travel sites that you use, and do they all offer guaranteed bookings? I remember using booking.com once and booked a hotel room and when I got to the hotel they did not have my reservation. Since then, I won't use any sites at all. What are your go-to sites for anything travel related?!?!?!
PeacefulKaz
None, not trustworthy. Do my own research and directly book. Haven't got the coin to travel these days so go local
May 31, 25

Alcohol ads often show drinking alcohol as something that will enhance mood or well-being, as well as contribute to positive emotional experiences, friendships, and achievement all ideas which young people find appealing. Should it all be banned, in your opinion?
Boycee
Yes i'm a smoker and all advertising for smokes got ban I believe that alcohol causes more damage than smokes do
May 17, 25

There are quite a few quirky words that just make me smile whenever I hear or read them. cockwomble, bamboozle, malarkey, kerfuffle, lollygag, nincompoop, shenanigans, flibbertgibbet, lollapalooza Do you have any favourite quirky words ?
Peter H (ACT) www.valleyfm.com
many of those words are made up by kids of today....teach the kids English and NOT jibberish
Nincompoop is older than me sheaninigans is old but so many other words are just rubbish
Apr 06, 25

My neighbors are elderly, but the fight a lot. They throw plates and other things at each other. We called the police who sent two young officers. We watched from our window as they knocked on the door. The elderly man opened the door and beckoned them to enter. The door was still open, and we heard the elderly man ask the officers if they'd like some coffee. He went on to tell them that his wife is sleeping and asked if they'd like him to wake her. The officers...
Bex
In the case of what is potentially a domestic violence case, the police should have spoken to both parties. To not speak to the woman, just because the man seemed nice is gross misconduct. This is how people die at the hands of their partners, when the people that are there to protect you fail at doing their job. This is incomprehensible. I would call the police, and explain what you've just told us. Thank you for calling, most people turn a blind eye. Having been in this situation before, I wish someone like you had come to my aid. You did a good thing to help someone in need, so I commend you for doing the right thing.
Mar 12, 25

It's important to make clear to your adult kids that it's their responsibility and in their best long-term interests to earn their own way. Stress that any financial assistance you provide to them should be viewed as a bridge to their eventual financial independence and not a handout. What are your thoughts? Should you help your adult children financially?
Granny2026
My children have never asked me to help them financially, probably because I can't, but I will help in other ways, I have told them that if they are finding things to hard, they can come back home. But they seem to be doing great.
Mar 15, 25

We have a section in our local show for collections. I always said I don't have anything. Then started going through things and realized I have at least 3. My Mother died last year, and somehow I now have around 15 vases that were hers, I also have some of my mothers-in-law and some of my Grandmothers. Ok, that counts as a collection. I also have a collection of beer mugs, everything from glasses with brands on them to big steins and many pewter ones. Some...
BLM
Really had to think about this discussion, and to my HORROR - I realizes I am a collector. I collect MUSIC and AGE (couldn't live without both of THEM) - ROFL!
Mar 06, 25

Australia has just stopped building a massive Green Hydrogen plant without any explanation ... we now have windmills, massive batteries and solar panel farms on one side ... or coal gas and nuclear power on the other. What happened to using green hydrogen to power everything? And massive wave farms that require little maintenance and provide power all day and night every day? They already exist ... what happened to gravity storage of power, rather than expensive...
Pearlz
Two companies have walked away from their wind farms claiming they are too expensive to operate. One was the very first wind farm. Twiggy Forrest walked away from Green Hydrogen, after he was given a huge Government grant, because he claimed it is too expensive to produce and a second company has also walked away making the same claim. Intermittent power is expensive despite the claims of Minister Bowen.
Mar 08, 25

The remote work era is not ending, but rather evolving. Companies are experimenting with hybrid models to balance productivity, innovation, and flexibility. What would you say? Is the work from home era ending?
Pearlz
I hope it's ending because I'm tired of phoning companies and hanging on and on and when they finally answer the dog is barking in the background or something else is going on and you have the definite idea that you were hanging on while they had a cuppa or took the dog for a walk.
Feb 20, 25

This is great for many people now, that some airlines has approved small pets to get to travel with the owners. All I can say wow, wow & wow. Won t be me on those flights with all that racket & god help the smell of any animal that they have & what will they be wearing nappies? Ha ha. Bad enough on any normal flight when you have an innocent young mother with a baby/child she is so constantly picked on even to a point of breastfeeding. Now animals what has...
LA
Oh, I hear you! Some people dream of first-class luxury, and others are out here booking flights on Noah\u2019s Ark Airlines. Imagine trying to doze off, only to be jolted awake by a chihuahua having an existential crisis in 12B or a cat plotting world domination in the overhead bin.
And nappies? Who\u2019s handling those mid-flight? Is there a designated \u201cpaw-tron\u201d of the lavatory now? Will we be hit with surprise turbulence and surprise smells? Look, I\u2019m all for people traveling with their furry friends, but if I hear a parrot screaming \u201cBRACE FOR IMPACT\u201d at 30,000 feet, I\u2019m out. \ud83d\ude02
Feb 18, 25

If you are a huge sport star like a captain that you represent your country & your team, I strongly believe you should at all times act your age & be responsible in your actions & in the way you speak in public. Regardless, whatever goes wrong in life, there are always ways to fix & mend things in a professional manner in a public life. Many people & especially children look up to you as you are there sport star & hero in their eyes, you need to set an example for them. I also believe...
Andrew C 287196
Parents should teach their kids that "celebrities" (whether sport or entertainment industry) are not worth "looking up to". They are just normal people who got lucky enough to be paid obscene amounts of money for doing something not really that useful to society. Some of them are good, some make mistakes that they take responsibility for, and some are simply idiots.
The real "heroes" are the people like those who work for the emergency services, doctors who save lives, the nurses in hospitals, even the sewer workers who go down stinking holes in the ground to make sure your waste water doesn't clog up and overflow everywhere, the street cleaners and garbage collectors who keep everywhere tidy. Most of these people are massively underpaid by comparison to the so-called "celebrities".
Feb 16, 25

What is up with people whose In Charge of rating movies, because there are a lot of movies out there, I've watched and think they're the wrong rating like for instance the original little orphan Annie. That movie I think should be rated R because ms Hanagan is drunk and also wanted to hire bad people to go and get her and one wanted to kill her. Also, what is up with movies that are a new version of the previous movie which the second and or more seems like not as...
BLM
Ageism, anti-social behavior, sexism, racism, (intolerant) religious viewpoints, vulgarity (in public), etc.; all started before the moviemaking industry got a toehold in 'western civilization'. Yet, your solution to the 'ills of western civilization' is to RATE movies harsher. I 'always' thought it was the job (responsibility) of the parent(s) to install morals, principles, scruples, and values in their children (silly me) - 'NOT' THE MOVIEMAKING INDUSTRY!
Dec 14, 24

United Nation should involve in imposing laws or make amendment to existing laws to look after endangered species of wildlife both on land and in the sea. People from all over the world are killing these endangered animals just to make money. But on the other end these species are vanishing in an alarming rate, which means not long they won't be around for our next generation to see. Therefore, I suggest United Nation should discuss this issue and address it appropriately...
teresa b 607654
United Nations? Who's listening to them on a multitude of issues? It's up to individual countries to protect their own.
Dec 11, 24
Yes ,well everyone around here loves a dead person apparently... So thought we should celebrate the stars that burn so brightly and so fast ,then so sadly are taken from the limelight. However ,they leave their mark on our musical life journey and give us a memory in time . A fun reminder of our youth or a painful torturous scar of love lost .. whatever yours is u can put one here.. no squabbling! No politics or B.s :) ( Or if unable to post videos just name...
Holly Cat
This young man passed recently, wasn't familiar with his music, but wanted to share. Rich Homie Quan, Got Yo Wings...
https://youtu.be/j3pleJTp5Sc?si=jOZKx6jYZq3Ag52X
Sep 06, 24

They're everywhere now. On the roads and footpaths as well. Riders un-helmeted, passengers too and at the speeds the youngsters are riding them it is only a matter of time before there is a fatality of either the rider, the passenger or a pedestrian. Should they be registered and/or the riders licensed?
Grommie
Not the tyres that are the issue, it's the power rating of the electric motor.
I wouldn't be surprised if some of them actually rate as a motor bike that needs to have a rider with a motor bike licence.
Fatalities are an inevitable consequence. You cannot legislate stupidity out of our lives.
Nov 07, 24

I do not understand the reason why the weather report for Australia is sometimes given on the television morning show from overseas. This week, our weather report was given from Morocco. Today the weatherman was in Casablanca. I do not understand why the weather report for Australia needs to be given from overseas. I am aware of the promotional message to contact a specific travel agency and guess the weather report is sponsored by this company. I am interested...
Peter H (ACT) www.valleyfm.com
I prefer the app on my phone,I am involved with a community radio station and I do not believe the weather reports on the computer screen.
I usually advise listeners,that when you stick your head out the door,if its sunny its not raining,BUT if the ground is wet and the sky is overcast,THEN its probably been raining
Oct 03, 24

Lots of people, while waiting in a queue, switch off because they switch onto their mobile phone. Problem is they get so engaged in what they are looking at, they miss the queue is moving and most of all, they are then too busy to engage with the sales assistant. The sales assistant has every right to ask them to stop using the smartphone or miss their place in the queue if they are on their smartphone, they should be getting it ready with their credit card details or their...
Little Thing
I think there are other things in the world to get angry about. It\u2019s not your business what other people choose to do and neither is it the customer service person.
Sep 26, 24

We've all seen the effects of social media in day-to-day life, and now many children are being given phones and downloading many inappropriate social media apps. Should they be allowed to be on them? There are already age restrictions on these apps, but many people ignore them and get them any way.
BLM
I don't have children - NOT one of my many issues! However, some 'adults' should never have access to social media - example - Donald John Trump.
Sep 16, 24

We will be going on our first cruise soon. Do any of you have a few tips about do's and don't's. What should we avoid or not miss out on? Is it good to do most activity bookings prior to the cruise, like excursions on the islands or spa treatments? Are there things to pack that they do not mention on the booking site, for example facial tissues? I would love to get some advice.
Perry 1310449
I have been on several. You can find excursions off of the ship cheaper than the excursions through the ship, but remember if you are on a ship based excursion, they will wait for you! Excursions you purchase from someone on land, they won\u2019t wait for you, no matter the reason! Secondly, don\u2019t buy the drink packages unless you expect to drink A LOT! I think it works out to you need to drink 15 drinks a day to pay the same amount! Yes, drinks on board will range from $11-$16 each, so take advantage of things like free juice at breakfast, along with free iced tea and coffee and hot chocolate. Steak House visits are over priced, and expensive, so leave them be, unless that is what you are going for! Main dining room food is excellent, and are covered with your cruise. They have changed sone rules there, so check when you board! Yes, you can sometimes get extra food there for free in limited amounts, like if you want an extra appetizer or dessert. But people ruined it over the years by requesting 2-3 main entrees! Like lobster and such. I ate there many times, excellent food! But smaller portions! You can go online to places like YouTube and look for videos of what each cruise line and ship offer for meals, posted by people who shared their cruise info! I highly recommend doing some early viewing! Myself, I ate many meals at the buffet on the Lido deck, or whatever deck each ship uses. LOTS OF GREAT FOOD! My wife loved the Omelette Bar! They make them to your specs in front of you. They also feature things like French toast, hot cakes, scrambled eggs with inclusions for breakfast, as well as toast, bagels, sliced meats like ham, salami, chicken and Turkey, cheeses, in case you just want to make a quick sandwich before an excursion? You will probably gain a few pounds on the cruise unless you really watch yourself! \ud83d\ude02\ud83d\ude02. Unless you REALLY want them, stay away from the photographers! Sometimes those cute pictures you had taken on the boarding ramp, Formal Night, and by the dozens of photographers on the ship, can run into the $20-$30 range EACH. SO UNLESS YOU PLAN ON $500 worth of pictures coming home with you, beware! Sign up for the tip package before you embark! You are still expected to tip your room steward, etc., but you can base that on how good (or bad) they helped you out! Everything on board will be charged to your room account. And everything is expensive, so watch yourself unless money is not an object. A candy bar in one of the stores can cost $4-5 each instead of $1.50-2 at home. One of the places I never miss, us sone ships gave a candy store! It also has a few things like stuffed animals, drinks, etc. yes it us expensive, as in $7-8 a quarter pound! But I like ut because I can buy 2-3 of these wrapped candies, 4-5 or those, a quarter cop of M&Ms. They put them in a sip lock bag usually, so I leave them in my cabin, so at night if I get a tiny sweet tooth attack, I can eat a few and ve satisfied, rather than calling room service. They DO have room service, but remember the menu us limited, expensive, and you are expected to tip! Make sure to pack things like Sun block if you are going to Mexico or Bahamas, headache medicine, and any prescriptions you have. They do have some of those things available in a place or two on board, and if you go off ship, there are usually places like a Walmart or grocery store locally, but never expect there will be when you need them! And depending on where you travel, again, prices can be cheaper or more expensive! Our last cruise was to Alaska. And there, a $5 bottle of aspirin can be upwards to $15. A $2.50 bag of candy can be $15. I have to take my CPAP, but they don\u2019t let you bring things like extension cords, electric fans, coffee pots, etc. on board, because everything us on the same circuit! If something shorts out, it can damage thousands if dollars worth of electronics! And you can be accountable for those costs! What else\u2026if you are late fir your ship, you get left there and have to figure out how to get to your next destination, incurring more costs! Some people like to bring things to decorate their doors or room, so that is an option! Especially if it is something special, like your anniversary or honeymoon! My daughter, with kids, brings cheap but strong magnetic hooks from Amazon or Walmart that she can tie string to and hang swimming suits to dry, or decorations for the room. The walls are usually magnetic in your room, so makes it easy to put up and take down with no damage. There is a closet in your room, usually just 2-3 feet wide for hanging dresses, shirts, slacks, and the like. And usually a very small safe, usually about 8-10 inches wide, 6-7 inches high and 6 inches or so deep, so you can keep passports if you need them for your cruise, there so you don\u2019t have to carry them around! In some instances you need to take your shipboard ID as well as your passport to check back in when you return from an off board excursion. And they can and will check pkges at times. You aren\u2019t allowed to bring alcohol on board. So if you do, or you buy bottles on the ship, They will be sent to the pursers office to be kept safely for you until debarkation at home! They wa t you to buy their booze! lol. You are usually allowed to bring one case of coke or Pepsi or whatever when you arrive. If you want water bottles, you can purchase them before or after you arrive onboard. Just call the front desk or visit them. If you do need an extension cord or fan for your room, they can supply them for you. The same for power strips! They don\u2019t trust power strips you bring on board, so do not pack them! My wife and I always ask for one, because unless you are in a suite, there is generally only one outlet in your cabin! So with 2 iPhones, an iPad, chargers for camera batteries, yes, my lovely wife is an avid amateur photographer, we need much more than one! I hope that helps you a little. And hope you didn\u2019t get bored listening to me rant! God Bless and watch over you on your trip!\ud83d\ude1c
Aug 25, 24

Japan Airlines has successfully carried out one flight using fuel made entirely from recycled cotton...also we have the capacity to replace all these huge container ships, which are a really major cause of all our air pollution...with helium airships using mainly solar-powered engines...these two are "news" stories...BUT they are real and viable...so why aren't we using them?...what is wrong?
lippy loo
Helium does have an environmental impact : The extraction process can lead to air and water pollution as well as soil erosion or depletion due to mining activities.
Cotton can be converted but it takes over 100 tonnes to get 10 Kiloliters of fuel or roughly 2641 gallons, however a plane uses 1 gallon of fuel every second.
I do not think they would work out financially viable. I guess that is why they are not being used commercially.
Jul 17, 24

How would you feel if you went to the eye doctor and found out that for 14 years this doctor has been hiding the fact from you that you have cataracts? You have been having vision trouble all this time and have been depending on others for transportation because your vision is not good enough to drive. Now you find out, and he is still trying to talk you into glasses, even though glasses make everything seem dark. Would you be angry? Would you sue the Dr?
lippy loo
What sort of doctor would do that. I was told I had cataracts for years but not bad but eventually he told me it was time to get the eyes operated on. I was informed all the time. I have an eye test every year and am sent a reminder. I am due for one now.
I think sometimes one has to change their doctor or medical person just to keep them honest and yourself in the know. My sister was very ill and her doctor for 10 years kept saying it was nothing. She passed due to cancer that has spread through her body and this so called doctors lack of care.
I always say get a second or even third opinion and if you still think something is wrong keep going. Many doctors fob women off as being hysterical, menopausal or whatever. Do not just accept their opinion. Investigate, educate yourself as much as possible and do not be afraid to ask the questions and demand answers. Of course, no need to be rude or abusive.
Jun 27, 24

Silence isn't a bad thing, though, and some people even enjoy it. It offers a chance to reflect and sort through thoughts. Actively and respectfully participating in a conversation takes energy even if you're only listening. Your partner, or anyone else, may not have the same conversational energy as you do. What do you reckon? Is it rude to not talk much?
BLM
It will depend on your 'personal traits' are you EXTROVERT or INTROVERT....also your culture will determine HOW you respond in the scenario you described.... furthermore, other factors could come into PLAY!
May 30, 24

What is wrong with discussing politics? So many colleagues and friends make it a point of being off-topic. Don t you think it s better to communicate with each other? We are stuck with these governing bodies to protect us and add growth . Only 1 rule if you make a claim against another, then you must be able to fact verify first hand and not a social from a social media platform. Thoughts, comments or ways to get communication going for the best?
lin r
letss cvc trum lost thee eleciiton by saying and puttinng in print
GET ME IONN IN 2020 AND I WILL FIND A WWAY TO TAY IN POWER INN 24 28 ET... in caes u need it spelled out that would of been his 2nd term so it was not legal for him to stay in power . then on his site he said get rid of the constitution and put me back in power... there i so much wrong with that i don't know where to start... now he is saying i will b a dicktator day one... anyone that vote for a dicktator shouldd mov to russia. ASAP
Apr 15, 24

Things aren't working great between me and my partner. And we have 2 kids. Does anyone know if "couple counselling" is worth it? Love some advice
BLM
Fortunately, I have never been in the scenario you have described - involving children - children make it a more complicated issue to resolve - I don't have children. Hence, I cannot comment on whether COUPLE COUNSELING is worth it - Bonne chance!
May 10, 24

Does good music put you in a better mood? Do you turn on music to lift you up on a bad day?
Len G
Music is always a mood changer for both good and sad moods. I always say that music is a time line of our lives.We can hear a song And mostly remember the year or period of our lives.
May 03, 24

Have you ever got caught up in a traffic check points blitz or a police speed trap?
Andrew C 287196
The people who complain about such things as being "revenue gathering", etc. are usually just the morons who want to do stupid things on the road. Public roads are not a playground - follow the rules or get off the roads! It's very very simple: if you don't do anything wrong, then you won't have to pay any fines / penalties.
Apr 27, 24

Throughout my life, I have resided in primarily small towns and cities, but I was compelled to relocate to a sizable metropolis, which has resulted in enormous changes. Everything is expensive, but I have discovered that there are more opportunities for professional development and superior educational options in the larger city.
Michelle S 553303
With all the violence now seemingly able to reign supreme in medium and large cities without much judicial action to prevent it happening again, you couldn't PAY me enough to go and live in a city! With digital learning now prevalent in all higher learning institutions you can get a degree online. The same would apply, IMHO, with respect to professional development being available by ZOOM or another digital interface. I live in a small country town in NSW Australia of 800 people. Im on the edge of town heading into the bush. The nearest regional shopping zone is 45 minutes west or a one hour trip east. The milky way is so beautiful on a clear moonless night and I might hear a truck and a ute bringing the guys who've been pig or Roo hunting back through town as they have their radio blaring, but sometimes you can hear a pin drop all night long until the birds start waking up in the trees outside my bedroom window. I usually get up then and await the rising sun just like now. I choose the birds and brisk fresh air over pollution and blaring horns, inpatient people, rudeness, theft and other more dangerous crimes and I am grateful that I can watch it on the news programs but I don't have to live it! Give me a home among the gum trees over concrete structures any day! Thanks for reading.
Apr 17, 24

I was just wondering how many other people out there have no parents left, and your siblings do their own thing with their own families on holidays, and it leaves you with your own family and no interaction with others, really. No closeness like when you were a child, or the feeling of being needed. I myself feel so lonely and so depressed during every holiday. I don't know how to get past it. But it seems my family split when my parents died.
blunder boy
death, unfortunately, does separate some families we lost 5 people over the COVID-19 years, it does make it tough and I feel for you, people I think avoid you because they have no idea what to say or how to act, distance creeps in and routines change leaving people behind, can i suggest writing letters, making phone calls and let your family know where you are, how you are, hopefully, things work out and new beggings can start I wish you well, i have been through it , I see my brother weekly now instead of every Christmas, because of phone calls sending letters and we have a new beginning he was going through similar troubles when his wife died but is reinvigorated. I hope you have an ok easter and again if you can't call write a letter, even if you don't send it it will serve you well
Mar 29, 24

What is the one thing in life that upsets you the most? I have a number of things that make my blood boil, but on top of my list is dishonesty. I hate it when people lie to me. People should know by now that the truth always come out, even if it is years later
Farmgirl22
A lot of things especially child abuse and animal abuse. Once I find new born kittens in a rubbish bag dumped on the side of the road, five kitten sadly 3 died, I worked day and night to looked after the two who are now three years old and the best loving cats. Another things that I get upset at are Dishonesty and violence.
Jul 03, 22

I don't know how it's at your area where you're resident but at ours house's price increased 30% over the last 5 years, and it's estimated it's not gonna decline any time soon. Really good for us to sell you our house as we gonna make those 30% + profit, however I can see how people are struggling and buying houses 3bedroom one bath for over $1m, and it's fixer upper!! I don't see that fair at all. I am worried how my son would be ever able to afford living one day....
Andrew C 287196
House prices rise, but so do wages (and everything else). Many of the people who complain they can't afford a house are wasting piles of money on restaurant dining, overseas holidays, continually updating their tech gadgets and cars, TV subscriptions, etc. In ye olde days people actually saved money for a deposit and they made sacrifices to pay off the mortgage (and the mortgage was often for a lot longer than the 30 years people expect to pay it off now). Nothing has really changed, other than the attitude of people.
Having said that, prices are also artificially raised due to the greedy "investors" (local and non-resident) who buy multiple houses to rent out and/or do up and "flip" at a profit. If it had been illegal to own more than the one house you actually live in, house prices would be a lot lower.
Feb 19, 24

Everyone is complaining that the cost of power is increasing, and they want us to switch to all electric, cars, home heat etc. Where is the infrastructure for all the demand? They say, cut your consumption, we will help you save money... however the price is increasing even if you are using less. These companies never do anything for the little guy. They still have to pay their CEO the big salary. What do you think?
Jellypony
Sorry this has nothing to do with power bills but I am so livid right now. I honest hope the bleeding hearts are happy with them selves. I hardly watch the news because it's all doom and gloom. Last nights head line was 70 y/o woman was stabbed in front of her 6 y/o granddaughter in Northern Brisbane shopping centre. The thugs wanted and stole her car, she obviously put up a little bit of a fight so they stabbed her to death. I honestly hope the family sues the government and the immigration department for allowing these criminals into Australia. Do you feel safe here any more? I certainly don't and why because it keeps happening time and time again. Wake up and stop allowing people like that here. It's not fair on the good people of this country to be put through this kind of hell the authorities have stowed upon us.For goodness sake just wake up.
Feb 05, 24

Are we becoming too negative and not seeing the positives in our lives or our society? Consequently, people are unhappy (even angry) and intolerant of others. Symptomatic of this are those with fixed positions on issues who aggressively condemn those with a different view, or who seek to tear down our society and our fundamental values. Shouldn t we try to adopt a more positive outlook and be more tolerant of others; to engage in discussion instead of abuse? Is social media a...
Kathleen 1396104
I have always tried to look at the positive in life! But the economy, global warming, natural disasters, war , and pandemics , do make it challenging! There is always a silver lining of you look hard enough! I have Cancer and I still find things to enjoy and celebrate! It's up to you if you see a glass half full or half empty!
Feb 02, 24

Seems to be an increase of homes with no lawn or garden, I like a bit of both, some people at work say neither for no maintenance, what would you like if you could have anything? (you still have to maintain it)
gordy
I also like a bit of both. Trouble is Councils are approving these cement properties because they make a lot of money in revenue. One house, one block, front and back garden with garage turns into 3-4 properties with just a garage and not enough room to "swing a cat" so to speak. I feel claustrophobic just thinking about it. No trees, no garden, no bees, no fauna or flora. We are destroying our planet and environment. So sad.
Jan 06, 24

In today's society, it is so different growing up compared to the olden days. Now take this as an example, you're getting married & it is the biggest day & memories of your life to last forever. I was brought up that the man usually leads & also is the man of the house. You get married in his church & take his surname to be yours. Usually this what happens, but not many times, unfortunately. I in my opinion I am so against the rule of women keeping their surname, once they get...
Neo
I advise not to as if you ever want to change back, it is a pain in the backside to prove that your current name matches your original name on your birth certificate AND it costs you lots of time and money to change all your ids from one name to the next (and for people that are remarrying a million times and do it every time for passports, bank accounts, drivers licenses, work id, social security, Tax, property and vehicle ownership, shares etc, I have no idea why they waste their time and money).
If you REALLY want to change your name, at least keep SOMETHING in your name that matches your birth certificate so you can prove that you are you.
Dec 23, 23

If you found out a friend of yours was incarcerated for a crime he/she committed, whether knowingly or unknowingly aware of the consequences: would you support him/her and continue being that person's friend?
BLM
Since I was incarcerated as a juvenile delinquent - my answer - would be YES - I would unequivocally support the person - regardless of the circumstances! I know 'how' the criminal justice system works in the USA. Former president Donald John Trump has evaded the consequences of his actions because he has money, and Donald John Trump is white. (Donald John Trump has admitted he knew that he wasn't cheated out of winning re-election in 2020). The criminal justice system in America is 'broken' at the juvenile level and the adult level. Furthermore, not one person was convicted in the 'Banking Scandal of 2008' - which costed countries on this planet trillions of dollars (and the major players in 'Banking scandal of 2008' were WHITE)! In addition, not one person was convicted in the 'Savings and Loan Scandal' of the late 1970s and early 1980s - which costed the USA billions of dollars (and the major players in 'Savings and Loan Scandal' were WHITE)! So much for the argument CRIME - doesn't PAY!
Nov 18, 23

When you have very strict parents/carers, are you making your children more rebellious? I believe yes, because the children eventually get really tired of the way you are with them. You need to be calm & explain the reason you chose for your child, in doing something in the way you want. Perhaps the child would understand more & if they state another way, why don't you compromise to solve the issue in a better way. I find being too hard on them, it leaves them with wrong...
NZSCORPION
As a severely beaten and abused child I call BS on this. I didn't rebel I chose not to be like my parents and to this day i choose to help people when and if i can. Childhoods only influence the weak willed. Life is a choice every step of the way.
Nov 19, 23

So Halloween is coming up, and my teenagers want to go trick or treat. I've never done anything like this, so I'm seeing what are other people's thoughts on this, is it safe... should I worry, or should I just offer them a Halloween party at home?
Bill C
Another American waste of money imported to NZ and Oz by retailers who are just money grabbers. It means nothing to Kiwis or Ockers and is unsafe in many areas where children as young as 5 are allowed to go and knock on complete strangers doors, and have not got a clue what to do when someone says "Trick" to earn sweets. They just expect a handout. It is rubbish when many people are struggling to put food on the table, and also contributes to tooth decay in our youngsters,, many of whom already have tooth problems.
Oct 09, 23

Research tells us that many people are marrying later in life, but why are some bucking the trend and getting hitched in their early 20s? Do you happen to know anyone of those that make up 11 percent of Australians marrying young for better or for worse?
GB
I got married at 23 to my child bride 22. At the end of this month will be married for 57 years. Still going strong.
Sep 18, 23

Skin specialists warn that soap and detergents used in baths and showers can remove vital oils from your skin...this could lead to skin complaints. Wrinkles and ageing the chemical companies respond by making shower products that make you at least as greasy after your shower... Ecologists warn that we need to conserve water...and having everyone showering or bathing on a daily basis is an extravagance the Earth does not need... Now Hollywood has joined with some...
Lachelle B
Hollywood? The owners of five+ bedrooms, three+ bathrooms, swimming pools, manicured lawns and three+ cars in the driveway with only two people living there? Oh yes, they definitely know about saving water \ud83e\udd23.
Aug 19, 23

I've heard and seen so much horrible behaviour by people lately... Animal abuse, Child abuse and family violence, Crimes against society, Corporate greed, Inequality, Online bullying, Scamming, Looting, Road rage... need I go on? What the hell is going on with people. Things are only getting worse, especially as times are hard financially with the cost of living, not to mention Climate change and the after affects with Fires, Floods and Drought etc. Why aren't...
DeANG
As we already know in every country around the world there are good and bad people. Although when we stop for a moment and hear the media such as the news or read newspaper all we ever hear is bad, bad, terrifying news which involves crime, Stabbings, shootings, theft, assaults., hurting innocent people, causing pain to families, causing injuries/ death, road rage.Running people over and leaving them on the road to die and not render help. Hurting our kids, the elderly especially that are more vulnerable and easy targets especially if they are blind or deaf. I think personally if society keeps going this way we will not even be able to step outside of our homes , because we are all too scared and feel we could be next targeted. We are all struggling, whether it's due to the cost of living, job, unemployment, or health, People's moods and mental thoughts do not give the right to anyone to take it out on others or hurt those who are innocent and destroy people's lives. There is not enough hard punishment in place.
Aug 16, 23
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