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Tag: writing

  • The Echolalia Quirk.

    also known as the ability to out-do Spotify.

    Echolalia – repetition of words just spoken by another person. Occurring with certain neurological, Neurodevelopmental or mental conditions.

    Echolalia is common with ADHD, Autism spectrum disorder and Tourette’s syndrome. The repetition can be words or phrases. Researchers believe this symptom happens due to frontal lobe dysfunction. This is the area of the brain that manages your thoughts, movements and memory.

    There are three theories relating to this.

     Dopamine dysregulation theory, is where too much, or too little can affect the way your brain tells your body how to communicate.

    The broken mirror neuron theory is where specialised neurons aren’t working as expected.

    The wealth of stimulus hypothesis, is where there is a disconnect between what you learn and how your body responds to it.

    But now for, echolalia and me…. certain words sound and physically feel nice to say, other AuDHDers would say the same.

    PIG.

    Photo by Cats Coming on Pexels.com

    PIG is a word that feels great to say over and over and OVER again. Though PIG feels great for me to say, some people may take offence, if they walk past me in the street. I really have to bite my tongue sometimes.

    Chick, Chick, Chick, Chick, Chicken

    There was an eventful shopping trip once. Whilst packing my shopping at a fast pace (I won’t name the shop), this one particular time, I had bought a pack of chicken breasts. Now I must say that with every item I put in the trolley I had said the name of it in my head. Back to the chicken, well the word “chicken” just seemed to roll off the tongue. It rolled off the tongue in the form off a song and let’s just say it wasn’t an inner monologue. I was in my happy oblivious world of white dancing hippos, fluffy clouds and tiramisu (yum). my husband caught my attention and as the white hippos took their bow, I realised where I was and what I was doing. I apologised profusely and continued packing the trolley, unfortunately I now had naked chickens dancing through rainclouds, going through my head.

    Thank You for the Music.

    Photo by Jepoy Fabian on Pexels.com

    Don’t get me started on songs…. Ok I’ve started. I seem to have a sub library of song lyrics available 24/7 at a moments notice, just call me Spotify on steroids. These can be blurted out at the most inopportune moments. At a male relatives funeral once, the speaker told us that “he always did it his own way” well here we go. I’m sat there head lowered, shoulders jiggling, not with tears but with giggles. Trying so hard not to channel my very own Frank Sinatra.

    Once a lyric is in my head it is repeated like a revolving door on black Friday. Just one line on repeat. I feel like a stuck gramophone. I am just glad I don’t have to pay the royalties.

    You can pick your friends but not your family.

    My family torments me sometimes, especially my adult daughter, knowing there are some phrases that trigger me.

    People of a certain age, ahem…. People who are old enough will understand the next few phrases. When my daughter feels in the mood to see me squirm, she’ll shout “Mother, I need to ask you something”. At this point I’ll stop doing whatever I’m doing and walk to the sound of her voice. “what’s up?” I’ll ask her. And this is where you’ll be old enough to know the answer or if you’re lucky enough not to know, ask your parents.

    with a totally straight face she’ll ask me…. Who lives at the bottom of the garden? My eyes close, and my lips purse as she laughs out loud, I say yep, yes, yeah down at the bottom of the garden, among the birds and the bees, live a lot of little people, called the Poddington peas. The conversations always go the same, but she’ll change the kids TV programme. Mum, where did Mr spoon go? Oh, for heaven’s sake, we’re off to Button Moon, we’ve followed Mr Spoon, Button Moon. Numerous Magic Roundabout quotes, oh Florence. Then here comes the big one…. BBBBbuuuuurrrrrkkkkKKEEEE – don’t you open that trap door, cos there’s something down there! Even as I write this, I’m singing all of these, lets see which one sticks till I fall asleep.

    You can find me by the sweetcorn….

    My life is surrounded by echolalia. I know it, my family know it. If I ever get lost in a supermarket all they have to shout is “der, der, der” and all day, every day I will answer back “Green Giant”.

    I’m predictable and stable with these stims. Sometimes they can be frustrating, but they are harmless. My family torment, but it’s done with love. I don’t have the maths ‘tism, but do I have the ability to remember lyrics, adverts and TV shows from over thirty years ago.

    So here I am signing off.

    Now where did Mr Spoon go?

    Kayleigh x

    Just pootling along

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  • How Technology Transformed UK Newspapers: A Historical Perspective

    Kayleigh Northall

    The production of newspapers in the U.K has been significantly affected by several major turning points since 1900. The introduction of the rotary press, radio broadcasting, television, offset printing, and computer technology have all played crucial roles in shaping the newspaper industry. These innovations have improved the speed, efficiency, and quality of newspaper production, allowing newspapers to adapt to changing media landscapes and continue to serve their audiences effectively.

    One of the earliest significant turning points was the introduction of the rotary press in the late 19th century. This innovation allowed for the mass production of newspapers, making them more affordable and accessible to the public. The rotary press significantly increased the speed and efficiency of newspaper printing, leading to a boom in newspaper circulation.

    Another major turning point was the advent of radio broadcasting in the 1920s. Radio provided a new medium for news dissemination, offering real-time updates and reaching a wider audience. This development forced newspapers to adapt by focusing more on in-depth analysis and investigative journalism, as radio could deliver breaking news faster.

    The introduction of television in the 1950s further transformed the media landscape. Television became a dominant source of news and entertainment, providing visual and immediate coverage of events. Newspapers had to compete with this new medium by enhancing their content, including more photographs and graphics, and offering more detailed and comprehensive reporting.

    The rise of offset printing in the 1960s was another significant turning point. This technology improved the quality of newspaper printing and allowed for the use of colour, making newspapers more visually appealing. Offset printing also reduced production costs, enabling newspapers to increase their circulation and reach a broader audience.

    The development of computer technology in the 1970s and 1980s revolutionised the production of newspapers. Computers enabled faster and more efficient typesetting, layout design, and editing. This technological advancement streamlined the production process and allowed newspapers to publish more timely and accurate news.

    One of the earliest major turning points was the rise of the internet and the World Wide Web in the 1990s. This technological revolution provided readers with instant access to news, reducing the reliance on traditional print newspapers. The internet allowed for the rapid dissemination of information, making it possible for news to be updated in real-time. This shift led to a decline in print newspaper circulation and advertising revenue, as readers increasingly turned to online sources for their news, the proliferation of smartphones further accelerated this trend. The convenience of accessing news on mobile devices meant that readers no longer had to wait for the daily newspaper; they could receive up-to-the-minute updates from web portals, bloggers, and social media platforms. This shift forced many print newspapers to adapt by investing in digital infrastructure and hiring staff with expertise in online journalism.

    Social media has also played a crucial role in transforming the news landscape. Platforms like Facebook and X have become primary sources of news for many people, especially younger audiences. This has led to a more interactive and participatory form of journalism, where user-generated content (UGC) and citizen journalism have become significant. Mainstream news organizations in the UK have had to verify and fact-check social media content, integrating it into their reporting while being mindful of privacy and copyright issues.

    The economic impact of these technological advancements has been profound. Many print newspapers have had to downsize, consolidate, or even cease operations due to declining revenues. To survive, some newspapers have implemented paywalls, charging readers for access to premium content, while others have explored alternative revenue streams such as events, sponsored content, and membership programs.

    The shift towards digital news consumption has also changed the demographics of newspaper audiences. Print readers tend to be older and more loyal, while digital news audiences are often younger and more transient. This has led to a reliance on social media platforms for generating traffic and engaging with readers through comments, social media interactions, and email newsletters.

    The advent of digital technology and the rise of the internet have transformed the media landscape, making it possible for anyone with an internet connection to become a publisher. This shift has had profound effects on newspapers and traditional broadcasters.

    The rise of the internet, smartphones, and social media has democratised the production and dissemination of news. This phenomenon, often referred to as citizen journalism, has allowed ordinary individuals to report news events, share opinions, and create content that can reach a global audience. User-generated content (UGC) has become a significant part of the news ecosystem, providing diverse perspectives and real-time updates. However, this shift has also introduced challenges, such as the spread of misinformation and the need for traditional news organisations to verify and fact-check social media content.

    The impact on newspapers has been particularly profound. The internet has reduced the reliance on print newspapers by providing instant access to news, leading to a decline in print circulation and advertising revenue. Many newspapers have had to adapt by investing in digital infrastructure and hiring staff with expertise in online journalism. Some have implemented paywalls to generate revenue from online content, while others have explored alternative revenue streams such as events, sponsored content, and membership programs.

    Traditional broadcasters have also felt the effects of this shift. Social media platforms like Facebook and X have become primary sources of news for many people, especially younger audiences. This has led to a more interactive and participatory form of journalism, where user-generated content and citizen journalism play a significant role. Broadcasters have had to adapt by integrating social media content into their reporting and engaging with audiences through comments, social media interactions, and email newsletters.

    The rise of user-generated content has also empowered marginalised groups, allowing them to contribute to the news landscape and develop their identities as citizen journalists. However, this has also introduced challenges, such as the spread of misinformation and the need for careful handling of content to avoid breaches of privacy and copyright.

    The shift towards digital news consumption has changed the demographics of newspaper and broadcast audiences. Print readers tend to be older and more loyal, while digital news audiences are often younger and more transient. This has led to a reliance on social media platforms for generating traffic and engaging with readers. The explosion of the internet has increased the range of media choices available to readers, further cutting into newspapers’ dominance as the primary source of news.

    In conclusion, the rise of digital technology and the democratisation of news production have had significant effects on newspapers and traditional broadcasters. While these changes have introduced challenges such as declining revenues and the spread of misinformation, they have also created opportunities for innovation and engagement with new audiences. Traditional news organisations must continue to adapt to this evolving landscape to remain relevant and sustainable in the digital age.

    Kayleigh Northall

    Just another WordPress site

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  • Discover Matlock’s Haunted Mill and Crafty Ghosts

    On a beautiful spring morning during the Easter weekend, I went on a hunt. It was not an egg hunt, as you would expect, but on a ghost hunt.

    Driving through the peak district fills me with serenity at the best of times. Still, today I’m on a journey to find a little hidden gem.

    Cromford in Derbyshire.

    Cr: Kayleigh Northall.

    Meandering through Matlock and on through the high-cliffed valley of Matlock Bath you arrive at a village called Cromford. find more information about Cromford and the surrounding area https://visitpeakdistrict.com/locations/cromford

    The Birthplace of the Industrial Revolution.

    Cromford famous for its mills and it’s connection to Richard Arkwright. Cromford is known as the cradle or birthplace of the industrial revolution.

    Via Gellia Mill, built by Richard Arkwright.

    Cr: Kayleigh Northall.

    This area of Derbyshire is known for its cotton mills. The industry is long gone but the structures still continue. Some of the buildings have been adapted into museums, some stand empty, vulnerable to the elements. Most of the mills have been split into smaller units and repurposed into smaller industries. Ironically, this can be seen as an extension to the cottage industry which the mills and industrial revolution decimated.

    Via Gellia mill, Cromford. Cr: Kayleigh Northall.

    The building is said to be as haunted as the ghostly creations inside. The mill has seen centuries of history. It was originally a cotton mill built by Richard Arkwright in the late 18th century. In 1890, Hollins & Company took over the mill. They began producing the famous Viyella fabric. This fabric is a blend of wool and cotton. Many people have walked the wooden floors. Creaks are said to be heard in places where no living person has tread. As producing cotton was a heavy manual labour industry which famously had child labours, fatalities and industrial accidents were prevalent. Deaths would occur in the mills; some would say leaving an imprint on the fabric of the building. The spirits of some have remained and you feel their presence in this shop.

    In the old Via Gellia Mill, there is a ramp at the side of the mill pond. Up this ramp lies the Matlock Ghost Emporium of Spirits and Secrets.

    Little Shop of Cute Horrors.

    A quaint little shop which sells handcrafted apparitions, shelf after shelf and row after row of ghosts all different creations. No two are alike.

    Matlock Ghost Emporium

    Cr: Kayleigh Northall.

    Picking your ghost to take home is a daunting challenge. You are faced with hundreds of little ghosts. They all want to find a home with you. I refused to look at their website. I wanted to find one that I felt an affinity with. That was a task, like walking through a dog adoption facility. I wanted to give them all a home. 

    A Myriad of Spooks and Spectres.

    I scanned the shelves, only glancing at first to see if I relate to any of the hauntings. I realised I was overwhelmed by the choice. It was akin to standing in a forest looking for a tree. Bookshelves full of little ghosts, some friendly, some not, stare out at you. Whilst you study them, you get the overwhelming feeling that they are studying you. On my second round of the little emporium, I found my spook to give a home. I wanted one that embodied or disembodied me. As a lover of books, reading, and writing, I searched for that perfect match. Staring at me was a pastel-coloured ghost with glasses and it was reading a book, perfect.

    After picking her out from the rest, I was ushered to the ghost’s photography studio. I positioned my new housemate in the scene and took my photos. This was a cute idea made up by the keeper of the apparitions.

    Photography shoot for my ghost.

    Cr: Kayleigh Northall.

    Possession of a Shy Kind.

    I was then asked if I wanted to get my ghost possessed in the S.H.A.D.E machine, spectral holding and displacement equipment. A perfectly decorated machine in which I placed my new friend and closed the door. I pressed the cog, and lights came on and spooky noises were heard coming from the machine. The colour of the light denotes what spectre I have to take home. Blue is a shy ghost. She is my possession. Maybe over time, she will come out of her shell and feel comfortable around me.

    The gift wrapping was perfect for the setting. It featured a snuggly box sealed with wax and a complimentary ghost holding an easter egg for Easter. I also received an information leaflet about my ghost, telling me all about her. The shop also has a reward scheme, collect the stamps and get a free ghost. The whole experience was fun, warm, and welcoming, the staff were friendly and knowledgeable about their creations.

    Walking back outside, I was transported from the world of whimsical and fun, back into the current day. Walking back through the mill towards the car park, I found myself smiling. I was slightly embracing the inner child in myself.

    Back home. My new housemate has been introduced to the rest of the family. She has found her space on a shelf in my living room. Hopefully she won’t be shy for long. After the fantastic journey I went on, I know she won’t be lonely for long. I am already planning my next trip.

    How to Find your Very Own Ghost.

    Find your spooky friend at Matlock Ghost Emporium, a worthwhile and fun experience. If you can’t visit the emporium please visit http://matlockghostemporium.com or look them up on Facebook, Instagram or Threads and read the story behind this collection of apparitions.

    http://matlockghostemporium.com

    Kayleigh Northall
    ★

    Just pootling along.

    Kayleigh x

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