Anastasia

The Disappearance of Advertising

A dramatic commercial could be made showing how much we would all miss advertising. The first few incidents would be easy. Posters and billboards would disappear. Most of the world's websites and television stations would vanish. Many newspapers and magazines would cease to exist and those that remained would be much smaller and more expensive.

Yet such deprivation would be nothing compared with the effect the disappearance of advertising would have on the process of mass production and mass consumption, on the price and range of goods in the shops, on the economy and on employment. Without advertising, many products, companies and jobs would simply cease to exist.

 We receive a pile of flyers in our mail box, every single day of the week despite the fact that Alkis and I put up a notice saying we wouldn't like to receive advertising flyers! This is what I call...aggressive marketing, yet I always have a look at the various special offers advertised.

Do you receive flyers in your area? To what extent does advertising, in general, influence your behaviour as a consumer?

 

Be Happy !

Not only did I feel the urge to take a picture of the first poppies in early Spring, but I also experienced a feeling of happiness. The great outdoors chase away all negative thoughts and make me feel as happy as a lark!  For some people, happiness seems to be a wild goose chase. This is because they never realise that happiness lies in small things such as petting a cat, walking a dog, dreaming, helping others when they need our help, feeling grateful, smiling, having a good laugh at least once a day and , most importantly, counting our blessings.

Even if happiness forgets you a little bit, never completely forget about it.  ~Jacques Prévert

 

 

Manners Maketh Man

I can't stand rudeness in any shape or form as this is a sign of disrespect for other people. Having finished work today at 9:00 pm, I went to the parking place where I had parked my car only to see that a very rude person had double parked, thus preventing me from driving home after a long day at work. If there is something I really hate as a driver is to blow the horn - especially at a relatively late hour when children might be sleeping. I waited for about 10 minutes, but nothing happened. I could have called the police but I changed my mind as this would probably delay me even more. Despite feeling guilty, I blew my horn. Five minutes later, the owner of the double-parked car arrived. He didn't even apologise!

I was raised in a family where good manners mattered. At a very early age, I was taught to say please and thank you, sit properly at the table, open doors for my elders and stand aside to let them pass. By the age of four, I had also learned to greet the people who visited us and use in greek the polite form of "you" to address them. It just annoys me to see that there are so many people out there who don't think that good manners are important. For instance, some of my students - especially teenagers - won't even say "Hello, miss" when I greet them. I guess it all starts in the home, when children are little and still learning. 

As William of Wykeham said "Manners Maketh Man", originally meaning that manners are the basis of our society and extended to manners are created by our society. We need to nurture something to be proud of., don't we? You reap what you sow, after all.

Do you think good manners matter? Do you try to instill good manners in your children?

The Future of Computers

The history of computers and computer technology thus far has been a long and a fascinating one, stretching back more than half a century to the first primitive computing machines. These machines were huge and complicated affairs, consisting of row upon row of vacuum tubes and wires, often encompassing several rooms to fit it all in.

As anyone who has looked at the world of computers lately can attest, the size of computers has been reduced sharply, even as the power of these machines has increased at an exponential rate. In fact, the cost of computers has come down so much that many households now own not only one, but two, three or even more, PCs.

As the world of computers and computer technology continues to evolve and change, many people, from science fiction writers and futurists to computer workers and ordinary users, have wondered what the future holds for the computer and related technologies. Many things have been pictured, from robots in the form of household servants to computers so small they can fit in a pocket. Indeed, some of these predicted inventions have already come to pass, with the introduction of PDA's and robotic vacuum cleaners.

Beyond these innovations, however, there are likely to be many, many more. One of the most important areas of research in the world of computers is that of artificial intelligence. When many people think of artificial intelligence, they may picture fully aware machines, complete with emotions, and the problems that can arise from them. Even though this remains the goal of many artificial intelligence researchers, in fact artificial intelligence technology is already in place and already serving the needs of humans everywhere.

One of the most powerful uses of artificial intelligence thus far is in the world of speech recognition. This powerful technology is already in place in call centers, banks, brokerage centers, insurance companies and other businesses throughout the world. While speech recognition is still imperfect, it has improved greatly in recent years, and in the future many routine, and even non-routine, phone calls and telephone inquiries may be handled completely without human intervention.

Robot technology has also come a long way, but it still has a long way to go. Robots in the future are unlikely to take human form, expect in a few specialized applications. Instead, robots are likely to do a great deal of work that is simply too dangerous for humans to accomplish. From spaceflight applications to search and rescue, robots are likely to continue down the learning curve they have already entered, further enhancing human lives and providing valuable services for a fraction of the cost of today's robot helpers.

Quantum computers are also likely to transform the computing experience, for both business and home users. These powerful machines are already on the drawing board, and they are likely to be introduced in the near future. The quantum computer is expected to be a giant leap forward in computing technology, with exciting implications for everything from scientific research to stock market predictions.

Nanotechnology is another important part of the future of computers, expected to have a profound impact on people around the globe. Nanotechnology is the process whereby matter is manipulated at the atomic level, providing the ability to “build” objects from their most basic parts. Like robotics and artificial intelligence, nanotechnology is already in use in many places, providing everything from stain resistant clothing to better suntan lotion. These advances in nanotechnology are likely to continue in the future, making this one of the most powerful aspects of future computing.

And if history is to be any guide, some of the most powerful advances in the world of computers and computer technology are likely to be completely unforeseen. 

 

via www.cbtplanet.com

In the 1970s, an expert on automation, Sir Leon Bagrit, pointed out that it was a mistake to believe that computers could "think" He went on to add that there was practically no possibility that human beings would ever be "controlled by machines". Though computers are capable of learning from their mistakes and improving on their performance, I believe that  they will always need detailed instructions from human beings in order to be able to operate. Whatever the future of the computers may be, they'll never lead independent lives or make decisions of their own. And they'll certainly never "rule the world." As far as I am concerned, I guess I'll always need a pencil and a rubber.

Vitamine C, Rhinoxehal and Green Tea

I was in the middle of a lesson on Friday afternoon when I started to sneeze every two minutes. According to a Greek superstition, when somebody sneezes you should ask that person to name a number up to 24 - the number of letters in the Greek alphabet. The person or people you know whose name begins with the letter corresponding to the number are supposed to be thinking of you. So, my kids kept naming letters ...I think everyone I know was thinking of me on Friday!!! Alkis included!

Although I'm now used to his business trips abroad, I had missed him and was looking forward to a great weekend - just the two of us. He had flown back from London earlier on Friday afternoon but, unfortunately, when I finished work on Friday night, I greeted him with a slight headache and a runny nose that spoilt my make-up and lipstick. His words were music to my ears. He said I was just as beautiful! We had a light supper but I was unable to resist the vanilla fudge he brought from London and, of course, I was delighted to upload all the wonderful photos he had taken in London for My Photo Blog!

I spent most of the weekend talking with Alkis. I honestly didn't feel ill! It was just that runny nose and  no, it wasn't an allergy! Ok here are my symptoms: a terribly runny nose, a slight headache, sneezing - no sour sore throat, no cough, no fever. Alkis insisted on me seeing a doctor but I told him I'd see the free family online doctor first. Then he said: "Oh really? Now I know you are ok". On Saturday afternoon, I took the Quiz - Cold or Flu? The verdict   diagnosis was an allergy! I think the online family doctor was wrong. Because first thing on Monday, I visited my chemist and she gave me Vitamine C and a decongestant nasal spray called Rhinohexal (it contains xylometazoline! - whatever this is). I loved the Vitamine C - you dissolve the tablet in water and , believe me, it does taste like Fanta ! As for the nasal spray, it does wonders. My nose isn't as runny as on Friday. Together with Green Tea, this combination is probably the best to fight a cold.

 

 

Divorce - A Blessing or a Curse?

Photo Credit

Not as long as 20 years ago, divorce was rare in Cyprus. If a married couple had problems, they'd talk and search a solution or they'd compromise for their children's sake. In the last five years or so, divorce rates have rocketed in Cyprus! One in three file for divorce and this tends to affect older ages as well. The other day, someone came to the school to repair something. His mobile phone rang. He said:"Sorry, it's my wife." (He meant his ex wife).

Although I hate people talking on the phone for personal reasons while at work, I told him that it was ok. When he hung up, he apologised again and went on to tell me this: " I'm 51 and my wife is 46, but we decided to get a divorce." Of course, as he opened up, I asked him why. He said their children were to blame. He insisted that they caused their parents to get a divorce. When I asked him how old their children were, he said they were 12 and 14! I was shocked!

Children are not to blame for their parents' divorce! They are not responsible for their parents' problems. But if a couple can't live together, regardless of the reasons why, it is much better for their children to get a divorce. However, both parents together should explain to their children that they divorce because they (the parents) have problems and assure their kids that they'll always have two parents.

To me divorce is a blessing if there are children. Children should be spared all this -  if not through compromise, through sincere parents who will take the time to talk to their children and explain why they are divorcing. .

And please let me repeat this:

No child is responsible for their parents' divorce!

Your thoughts are very welcome as always.

 

Facebook Vs Twitter

When I first started an account on Facebook, it was mainly to find old classmates and some good, old online friends I had lost contact with. All I had to do was to either import contacts from an email account or just type their name! I was so excited when I finally managed to find so many great friends! Thanks to Facebook, we can keep in touch, write on each other's Wall, share photos, links, videos or personal updates. And this is why I find Facebook the best social network ever.

On the other hand, I do feel a bit of an "outsider" on Facebook. Most people play games. I like games as well but the ones on Facebook are promoted by apps which require access to your personal data - that's what I don't like! And besides, I like to write! Blogging  to me is the best social media ever! And, of course, I'm glad TypePad provides the one and only blogging interface on Facebook. My Facebook friends who really know me also know that I'm not there to play games. I'm there to keep in touch and let them know what I blog about, or post a personal update. But whenever I have some extra free time, I'm curious to see what my friends are posting.

A few months ago, I joined Twitter out of curiosity. All right, fair enough, it took me some time to figure out how this social network works. I understand that I can only use 140 characters or so to keep in touch with friends!  So, instead of concentrating on what I wanted to say, I caught myself being distracted by the character count!  My illustrious ancestors, the Spartans, said "To lakonizin esti filosofia" meaning that brevity is wise. But they meant words...not characters!

As William Henry Davies (a Welsh poet) once wrote, life is meaningless if we take no time to stand and stare. What would you choose? Facebook or Twitter ?

UFO Over China (06/10/2010) Marks 8th Time Since June

via www.youtube.com

I have never seen a UFO or had encounters of the third type - or whatever these encounters are called. However, according to Dr Drake's mathematical calculations, it is a 100% mathematical fact that we are not alone in this vast universe. And I will agree. Our galaxy, the Milky Way, is one of trillions of galaxies in this vast universe. Therefore, I think it's very unlikely that living creatures can only be found on Planet Earth. What I can't quite understand is the reason why so many UFO sightings were reported in China within a few months!

Here's what to do if you see a UFO

Photo Credit

The Mutual UFO Network, or MUFON, has compiled guidelines for witnesses to report UFO sightings.

1. Remain calm. But protect yourself from any hazards, real or perceived. Be prepared to take evasive action to get out of the object's way.

2. Be objective. Not every UFO is extraterrestrial; eliminate other possibilities first. Only after that should you consider that what you saw might be a true UFO.

3. Use a camcorder or camera to record the event. Try to keep reference points in the field of view, as this will aid in analyzing the film. If you do not have a recording device, then draw pictures of what you saw.

4. Tape your tale. If you have a tape recorder, record your description of the event as it happens. Include reference points. If you don't have a tape recorder, write down your observations immediately.

5. Get other witness observations. Ask other witnesses to write or record their observations, but do not discuss the event with them until after your observations have been recorded.

6. Leave the area alone. If the UFO left some trace of its presence, do not disturb the area around it and restrict access to the site. Photograph the area around the site before you enter, and note the exact position of everything. Take close-up photos or video of the evidence before touching it.

7. Gauge the size. If the sighting is from a distance, at an arm's length, what would it take to cover the object? A quarter? A penny? A dime?

8. Gauge the distance. Try to judge the distance from you to the object, the object's altitude and its speed. Was it across the street or was it over the next field? Was it treetop level or a few hundred feet up? Did it cross the sky in five seconds or five minutes?

9. Record any encounter. Should you encounter some type extraterrestrial being associated with the craft, be prepared to protect yourself. From a safe distance, in a concealed position, photograph or videotape the being. If you are unable to safely get photos of the being, draw and write down a description as soon as it is safe to do so.

10. Report your experience. Immediately report the event to a UFO research origination for investigation.

www.mufon.com

Do video games help shy youngsters build social skills?

 

Photo Credit

Hong Kong - Scientists have found that children who spend hours playing online games may be developing friendships and nurturing vital social skills, a news report said Tuesday.

Rather than causing them harm, playing computer games can help boost the self-esteem of shy youngsters and increase their satisfaction with life, the South China Morning Post reported.

The benefits of online games were similar to those of making friends in the real world, the researchers from the Chinese University in Hong Kong concluded.

More than 600 primary school children were interviewed for the study, which found they spent an average of 67 minutes a day playing online games and 44 minutes using hand-held game consoles.

Nearly one-fifth of the pupils interviewed said they played for three hours a day or more, according to the newspaper.

Dr Angel Leung of the university's psychology department said: "Online friendship is ... especially important to those who are extremely shy or introverted - those who have difficulties making friends in real life."

However, she conceded that playing online games too much could adversely affect their academic results with English the subject most affected by game playing, the report said.

Copyright DPA

via www.earthtimes.org

If you ask me, online games and more specifically these interactive video games can eventually turn out to be detrimental to a child's physical condition and psychological growth. They contribute greatly to child obesity and to aggressive personalities. I really don't think they can help shy children build social skills. On the contrary, they tend to cut off children from the real world by making them unfriendly and anti-social while their grades can drop dramatically- not only in English but in all other school subjects. What's worse, these games can become terribly addictive for the child who gradually begins to live in a virtual world of make believe. Children need to go out and play, run, jump, skip, meet their friends, practise sports and take up creative hobbies. That's how they can develop real social skills.

On the other hand, technology is part of both adults and children's lives. Some online games can be really fun for children and can help them develop creative skills, yet, even in this case, parents should, by all means supervise their children, set time limits and stick to them and, most importantly, talk with their children in order to make them realise that real life doesn't work the way they see it in their online games. In this way, children will be able to see the difference between the virtual, unreal world of a video game, and the many benefits they can gain in the real world.

Thinking Positively

in Larnaca Sunset

Photo by @anastasia.marou

Positive thinking--being optimistic and hopeful--is a habit anyone can adopt with some practice. Why might you want to do so? A positive attitude and optimistic thinking are healthy. The power of positive thinking is that hopeful, optimistic people are healthier, live longer, and report greater satisfaction with life than those who might be labeled pessimistic.

Positive Thinking and Reality

Positive thinking is not ignoring reality. Bad things happen to positive and negative people alike (though Law of Attraction advocates may disagree). The difference is that positive thinkers tend to look for the best in a situation. That doesn't mean they ignore the negative event, just that they accept it and look for ways to make things more positive.

Positive thinkers believe that good things abound, that opportunities exist aplenty, and that the majority of people are positive and well-meaning.

via changing-personal-habits.suite101.com

Judging from my own experience, thinking positively has helped me a lot to  face rocky times or difficult situations effectively and seek solutions and eventually get rid of stresses and strains. I guess I tend to think like Scarlet O'Hara in Gone With The Wind: "Tomorrow is another day." And when something goes wrong in my life, I say to myself: "Chin up, girl! Tomorrow is a new day! And things will get better." Sometimes, they don't, but by expecting the worst, you deprive yourself of positive energy which can help you make things better. After all, we are the architects of our own future.And let us not forget that after every sunset, after the darkest of nights, there's always the promise of the dawn and the greeting of the rising sun.