Self confidence

Week before last I attended a presentation of sorts and as I entered the room the presenter gave me a most warm smile while walking towards me and extended her hand to me to shake. As I shook her hand I had a strange moment....something felt strange in the hand grip between us.As I released our clasp I realised she doesnt have four fingers. She only has a thumb which I soon discovered after taking my seat and glancing her way.

I sat there throughout the presentation watching how she presented herself and I was so fascinated...not once did this lady attempt to hide her deformed hand and used it so confidently while talking.She is one of those expressive types who uses their hands alot while talking.I also noticed that she had a way of gripping things in her hand with her thumb and with such ease and confidence.I could see people around the table whispering about her hand and I just sat there in awe of this womans self-confidence.There she was trying to sell us a product and not once did I pick up any struggle with her hand or attempt to hide it.

I found myself wondering if she was born with a deformity or did she lose it in an accident.Well whatever it was I am sure she had been through a tough time at some stage in her life dealing with this and I sat there proud of her for being in a job where both her hands are required to do a presentation infront of people and she just got on with it without a hint of a lack of confidence in her appearance or a hint of an insecurity around what people will think or ask. She confidently put out her hand to shake everyones hands that walked into that room without an anticipation of having to explain what has happened to her hand...I left there grateful for both my hands and their abilities as well as a lesson to myself on self confidence.

You probably could place a spin on it and ask if it is suitable to have someone present with a deformity as it might take the attention off the product she is selling...I felt that her personality, confidence,presentation skills was a winner for the product as the room sure were engaged....I am a special case who often ponders about things the next one wouldnt ordinarily be pondering about(a bit like Amelie from the movie)so there was I present in her presentation yet in another world simultaneously thinking about her life story.

Moving Day

Today I moved into another flat in the company accomodation following numerous problems with dampness in the ceilings and walls.
So if you wondering how much I moved and how much stuff I could possibly have in just six months of being here...let's put it this way,it was two car loads and unpacked in an hour. This flat is much more airy,brighter and well maintained.
Here is to more new beginnings. My Internet will take a few days to recconect so hence no pics on this post. I have typed this on my phone. Not easy....

A cup of tea?

"Strange how a teapot can represent at the same time the comforts of solitude and the pleasures of company." ~Author Unknown

It was the last....

Today would have been my mama dearests 71st birthday.

I remember last years celebration oh so clearly. Mum was in Cape Town and Adhil and I arranged to get the day off to take mum for a beautiful drive out in the fair Cape to the Hillcrest farm where we had an enjoyable lunch out in the sun. Mum took many a phone call over lunch...the wishes didnt stop coming in from her McCords work family(I remember tearing silently that morning in Adhils room so mum wouldnt see me...I was moved once again by mums McCords family calling in the early hours of the morning.She really touched the theatre staffs lives over the many years that she worked there) to family and friends.It was such a gorgeous afternoon out on the terrace and I know mum loved the view of the mountains.

That evening we went to HQ for an intimate dinner. Just the three of us. I wanted to cherish every moment and savour her company on this special day as deep down I had this niggly feeling that it possibly could be the last.

Back in Durban Mum was able to extend her birthday celebrations with a gathering of close family and friends at Seabelle restaurant. Mum was hooked on the idea of having their famous prawn curry and enjoying this in the company of her loved ones. Mum even sang at her gathering while Aroon played the guitar. Another most memorable afternoon with us four kids present....I mention this as it does take planning to get us all in one city at the same time and funny enough Adhil flew out immediately thereafter on a work trip abroad.The afternoon was filled with good food, special company, heartfelt speeches and just an air of appreciation for my mum. Mums 70th birthday has left me and many others with many warm and beautiful memories.Yes it was the last but there is no reason that I cant continue celebrating her birthday in her honor. A legend lives on....

How could I forget this unique pic! Sorry Jeanne...

As I was going to bed last night I remembered that I forgot to post my dear friend Jeannes' view from her desk on the previous post. A rather unique view too!

Jeanne is based at a hotel in Cape Town...Go Bokke!Not something we all have the privilege of doing at work.

"Views from your work desk"

So I had this idea to gather a few photos of the views from a few work desks of the people within my circles. It is pretty interesting to know what their outlook on the world looks like most of the day....Here are a collection of a few pics from around the world.

I don't have any windows within my office-not even one close by!.Next time I apply for a job I think this is going to be something to really consider. It really hinders my creativity and complete wellbeing I tell you!LOL ;)

My view looks onto my managers desk...



Brittes' view on site at a hotel doing a system set-up in London...



A rather unique view! Lecias' view here in Dubai at one of the airports.



Margarets' desk at the OE offices in London...



Adhils' desk in Cape Town...



Now this is just showing off...Sachas' view in London...



Aroons' desk in Richards Bay...



Thanks to those who were able to contribute. Added some delight to my blog.

Happenings this past weekend back home......

This weekend my heart was with my family back home....

My adorable niece Zara celebrated her 4th birthday party



Look at that beautiful cake made by her Dad and look at that gorgeous dress.....pity it doesnt come in my size.

Heidi participated in her first cycle race. Way to go Heids!!! So proud of you.