“Anyone who has actually been that sad can tell you that there's nothing beautiful or literary or mysterious about depression.” 

― Jasmine Warga, My Heart and Other Black Holes

Last year was, in a weird way, a huge breakthrough for banishing the taboo around discussing teen suicide. Like it or loathe it, the Netflix original "13 Reasons Why" was largely to thank for this. I personally disliked the show for how it dealt with such sensitive topics, but having since read Jay Asher's YA book that the show was based on, I can admit that the story initially had a decent message, it just happened to get lost in translation.

Nevertheless, the show's adaption was done so poorly that it did act as a trigger for many young men and women. I have read the stories that I think a lot of us have, surrounding the 13 episode series pushing many young adults to suicide. It's heartbreaking. Granted, a show can't be solely responsible for someone's sadness but nothing entertainment wise should have enough power to push someone to ending their own life. Nothing. One could argue that anyone with that weight of sadness would find their reasoning in anything - this show just happened to be the source at the time. But alas, taking "To The Bone" as an example, the other Netflix original that took the sensitive subject of eating disorders and created a movie starring Lily Collins, it was respectfully done without skimping on the details that an audience may find too difficult to watch. You ended with a small token of hope that ought to always be what people take from something - especially when the something is geared towards a young audience. It's always going to be hit or miss, but these things should never be done carelessly. "13 Reasons Why" had the opportunity to create a strong healthy message and it's really disappointing how it all ended up. I have read enough books on mental illnesses to know that it can be done. If they wanted to keep the original ending, fine, but they could've easily done it in a way that didn't insinuate that suicide is not only an easy option, but something that enables you to put the blame on others.

Disclaimer: I allowed my darling son Bruno to write up a post for you all. Now, I truly believe that you'll be safe in his paws but if things get aggressive toward birds or he goes on a tunangent (get it? Tuna + tangent? No?) I cannot be held responsible. 


Yo, my kitty homies. Have you tried this? Hilife chicken is my favourite thing in the world. Well except for myself, obviously. And Mama. Her and chicken are like equal. It's succulent pieces of freeze dried chicken that are so yum they'll make your tail stand up. Every week when Mama goes Bruno shopping I ask for 10000001 packs but does she deliver? Nope. Big fat nope. She says Tesco nor Asda sell it anymore (whoever they are) but I think she just can't count to that many. Sometimes she gets that strange human who gives us paper and boxes to play with to bring some to Bruno, but it doesn't always get delivered. When we do have some, I ask for it multiple times a day and she does give it me when she understands, she's just a bit oblivious sometimes. Like, I'll be sitting right next to the cupboard that holds my food, treats, bowtie and chicken - you know, the necessities to keep Bruno alive - but she just comes and gives Bruno some lovin' and doesn't give chicken, even when I'm asking REALLY loudly. I blame my good looks. She gets so distracted by me. It's difficult being a kitty stud. It's yummy though. Trust me, cats, tuna is so pase. Hilife chicken is the future.

This year has been one of the best and worst years of my life. I found a new home that wasn't just a person, almost lost two of the very few people I have in my life, drifted away from some things that have given me happiness in the past, and most importantly, I got engaged. I know I'm luckier than most, some people have had 2017's that rival any season final of Supernatural ever. But, I'm me and these have been my defining points of this year - both high and low.

In 24 hours, we'll all be merry with the Christmas cheer and singing loud for all the hear. Okay, maybe not the singing part. Though it seems near impossible nowadays, what with online shopping and all, many of us still find ourselves waking up on Christmas Eve with a list of people we still need to buy for. The horror! This is my rough guide to speedy gifts you can buy in a hurry.


Photo Album
Whether you're in Debenhams, Home Bargains, or Tesco.. they all sell a photo album. This is a great last minute gift that doubles as something extremely thoughtful. Include a voucher or some cash for them to print out some photos to fill it with, or go through the old boxes of unappreciated photos and fill it up for them.

Food Box/Hamper
Unlike mainstream stores, the supermarkets won't fail you on this one. Whether it's a gift box filled with odds and ends that you think the gift recipient will like, or a themed gift like a Tea Hamper, this is great one no matter what your budget it. It's also a great one for any child you need to buy for last minute, add some hot chocolate stuff, some popcorn and maybe even a movie. Speedy and fun.