Alf's thoughts,stories & newsletters from New Zealand

Christmas 2005 Newsletter

2005-11-24T13:49:00.000+13:00

Hi all,
I recently sent this newsletter out to friends and family but in the unlikely event of me missing anyone I have posted it on my blog for all to read.
The older one gets, the faster time flies. Now aint that the truth. Our last newsletter was in July and now it is already almost Christmas. Our trip to Aussie last year seems like it was just yesterday.
This year we have decided to splash out and spend Christmas and New Year with our son Brad and grandson Ethan in London. We fly out on December 15th and return to Auckland on January 14th. It’s all very exciting - we haven’t been to London since December 1999 and have only seen our grandson once when he was only three months old. He is now almost three years old. It is going to be quite a big family reunion. Darren and Amanda and obviously Evan will be going too and Irene’s sister Gillian and her husband Colin will be coming from the states. We will all be staying with Brad and Tony (Irene’s brother) and his new wife Ingrid and baby Sammy.
I am now well ensconced in the new Silverdale factory which I mentioned in our last newsletter. The drive to work in the mornings is wonderful, no traffic and beautiful country scenery. The factory is huge and the offices are state of the art, very comfortable indeed.
My boss is one of those people who have to have some kind of project on the go at all times. After the new factory had been completed he had nothing to stimulate his active mind. When we were in the old factory we were limited with storage space and had a six metre shipping container in the yard which was used to store surplus tools, etc.
Anyway, one Monday morning he came in and announced that he had an idea how to utilize the now empty container. We would put an ad in the local newspaper saying that we‘d like to send the container filled with warm clothing and blankets to the earthquake victims in Pakistan. Well we were inundated with calls from people volunteering help. We set up drop off points for collection of clothes and blankets and within ten days the container was filled! The container is being shipped to Pakistan on the 24th November. What a wonderful gesture from the people of NZ. We even got parcels from as far away as Invercargill, in the south of the South Island.
Check out the website: See here http://www.flickr.com/photos/aqw/62084493/
And here http://www.flickr.com/photos/aqw/
My painting has been put on the back burner lately; I’ve been channelling my inspiration into a different art form. I’ve been trying my hand at writing short stories, essays, blogging and I‘ve just finished a play which I hope one day to produce both in SA and here in NZ. The writing is not great but I have certainly enjoyed the experience. If anyone would like to risk it, you can read some of my stuff at: http://alfwood.blogspot.com/
The family is well; Irene is still working hard at the same job and enjoying every minute of it, Darren continues to excel in his field and also enjoys his work a lot. He has his own Web developer forum on the net and has a worldwide following. http://dontcom.com/
Evan has had a good year at school coming first in his class. He has decided that he is a bit young to go to university next year (only just turned seventeen) so will be staying on at school to do his “A” levels. He is still besotted with all things Chinese and can now speak, read and write Mandarin moderately well. His music is still very important in his life and he will be playing in two orchestras next year, Westlake Concert Band and the Westlake Symphony Orchestra.
We recently had general elections in NZ and the Labour Party under Helen Clark won a third term. She has formed a coalition with two right-of-centre parties which is very strange for a left wing Labour party. Anyway we have them for another three years. The nice thing about the Labour government is that they have promised interest free student loans for tertiary education; this will suit us just fine for when Evan starts university in 2007.
Sorry about the South African loss of the 2011 Rugby World cup but at least NZ got it which is good for us. It promises to bring millions into our slowing economy.
Well, that’s all for now folks, we wish you all a wonderful Christmas and a happy and prosperous New year. Please drop us a line, we are starving for news from you guys.

Lots of love from
Alf, Irene and Evan (Wood, in case you had forgotten.)

Unblocking the blog

2005-10-08T09:45:00.000+13:00

I haven't posted for some time now, been kinda busy with other things. I tried my hand at writing a play which I have almost completed. I need to read it a few more times so that I can get some more inspiration to tweak and improve it. Having said that, I must add that writing the play was a truly rewarding and fulfilling experience. Maybe one day I can get it produced.
I am busy reading a very interesting and inspirational book, (On the advice of Amanda, Darren's lovely girlfriend) it is called "The Artist's Way" by Julia Cameron. It is "a spiritual path to higher creativity" The book is a twelve week course designed to unblock the creativity in us. So far it has made very interesting reading. I am only on page 20 and already I'm feeling more inspired than I have for a long time. Watch this space to witness the results. Hopefully, my inspiration for painting will improve as well.
The mildest New Zealand winter in living memory has come back to bite us in the arse. It is supposed to be Spring but the weather has turned foul with rain, wind, snow. Forcast for this weekend: Generally shitty. Until next time, have a good one.

Gemini (Part Two)

2005-09-03T08:04:00.000+12:00

Here is part two of the story :

Jim arrived back at his flat in Oxford a few evenings later. Ken was home, lying on the sofa watching TV.

“How was your break in London?” asked Ken lazily sitting up.

“Great! I always have a good time in London. Where’s Janet tonight?”

“She’s studying; got a big exam tomorrow. Want a beer?” Ken moved toward the kitchen.

“Yes please, aren’t you working tonight?

“No,” replied Ken handing Jim the beer. “It’s my night off so I thought I’d just chill out here in front of the Telly.”

“Listen; you were an adopted child weren’t you?” Jim asked hesitantly…

Mary and Douglas Wilson from Wessex had adopted Ken when he was just 9 months old. The Wilson’s were not a wealthy family. Doug worked as a butcher in the local butchery and earned just enough to support his family. Mary would do sewing at home to supplement the family income. Life was a constant battle. The education of their adopted son, Ken, being their prime motivation. They were a close and loving family and gave Ken a lot of affection. They, too, had been very open with him and had told him all about his adoption. However, tragedy struck when Ken was 16 years old, his dad, Doug had had an unexpected heart attack and died at the relatively young age of 55. There was a small insurance policy, which took care of the mortgage, but Ken had to take a job at night to help his mum and to pay for his school. Fortunately, Ken was a bright student and when turning 18, he won a full scholarship to study Computer engineering at Oxford University. Ken had found a part-time job in Oxford so that he could pay for his food and accommodation. He had got himself a cheap flat, which he now shared with Jim.

“Yes, you know I was adopted - I have already told you I was. Why do you ask?” Ken sounded a little irritated; he never liked talking about it.

“Well something weird happened to me in London. Do you think it possible that you may have a twin brother?”

“What!” Shouted Ken, now a little more than irritated. His parents had never mentioned brothers or sisters.

“Calm down and I’ll explain. Do you remember Karen, the red head girl from the London School of Music?”

“Yes I remember her, she was at our party several weeks ago, what about her and why the questions about adoption and twin brothers.” still sounding irritated.

Jim told Ken the full story of his meeting with Chris, how shocked he had been by the uncanny resemblance between the two of them.

“Can you set up a meeting between us?” asked Ken now looking a lot calmer and feeling more than a bit curious.

“Sure, but don’t you want to chat to your mum first?”

“No! I want to meet him first. If we are as alike as you say we are, I will know instinctively if he is my brother or not.” Ken smiled thoughtfully and then added, “I always wanted a brother.”

“Ok, will do. Give me a few days. I’ll get hold of Karen to contact Chris and set up a meeting with you two.” Then with a mischievous smile, Jim added, “I think those two are attracted to one another and I wouldn’t be surprised if a romance soon blossoms. By the way, when is your birthday?”

“June 2^nd, I’m a Gemini.” Ken shivered with the sudden realisation and Jim’s mouth fell open in utter surprise. Gemini the star sign of the twins…

Chris and Karen had begun dating and had become quite close. Jim had been right a romance had developed and the two had become almost inseparable. During one of their dates a few days later, Karen told Chris that Jim had related the story about him to Ken who wanted to meet him. Chris decided not to wait for the adoption papers but to go ahead and let Jim set up a meeting…

My God, they were right, he looks exactly like me, thought Chris, his heart pounding and the glass of beer shaking in his hand.

Their eyes met; there was instant recognition. Ken started to move towards the bar where Chris was sitting holding his beer. They were connected as if by some invisible thread. Ken felt mesmerised by the sight of Chris. He instinctively knew he was about to meet his twin brother for the first time.

Slowly Chris placed the pint on the bar and stood up. He felt as if he was part of some surreal slow motion movie. Ken was now only a few yards from him; he felt the tears well up in his eyes. He knew he was looking at his brother. He could see moisture in Ken’s eyes. Ken stopped in front of Chris. Their gaze not straying for a second, both of them trying to control their emotions. The moment was very awkward, what now? The next second they were in each other’s arms, hugging as only brothers do. The tears now flowing freely. They were not tears of sadness but of overwhelming joy. They did not need any proof, they knew. The Jukebox started to play and suddenly there was applause coming from all over the pub and everyone was standing and looking in their direction. Karen and Jim had been hiding in the corner of the pub to witness the reunion. It was Jim who had started the Jukebox and applause. The song being played was “He aint heavy, he’s my Brother”…

Gemini

2005-08-31T18:33:00.000+12:00

On the 23rd July I posted a short story which I had written during an evening class in creative writing. It was called " Mind The Gap" I hope y'all enjoyed it. If so here is part one of my next attempt at writing, if not, cope!!

Gemini.

A short story

Alf Wood

“Pint of bitter, please” said Chris to the barman.

I need something to calm my nerves, he thought while waiting in The King’s Arms pub on the corner of Highgate and Swanson roads Kensington.

His mind was racing. I’m a man. Men don’t cry. I must not cry. What do I say? What will he think of me?

“That’ll be two quid please mate,” said the barman sliding the pint of beer across the bar counter to him.

“Tah” he handed over the two pounds shakily.

What does he look like? So many questions. All these thoughts were beginning to make him dizzy with emotion; a huge lump had developed in his throat. Twenty years was a long time. Will I know him, will he recognise me? I have never even met him, so why am I feeling so emotional? Questions…thoughts… emotions…excitement…

Then he saw him walk into the pub…

What was the name of that pub again? The King’s Arms? Ah, there it is on the corner of Highgate and Swanson roads. Ken’s thoughts were running wild too, while walking from the Highgate tube station his mind was like a cauldron of bubbling thoughts. How did this happen, when did it all begin? Is it really happening? Will I burst into tears, making a real ass of myself? He had always been an emotional person. He‘d often get tears in his eyes while watching movies. Janet, his fiancée, loved that the most about him, the fact that he could ‘get in touch with his feminine side’. He wished she was with him now, she was always able to comfort him and make him relax, but she had said that this was something that he had to do by himself. His roommate, Jim had agreed with her. So he had taken the early train from Oxford to London and here he was, outside the entrance to The King’s Arms.

With a deep breath of nervous anticipation, he pushed the swing door open and stepped inside. The pub wasn’t full, just a smattering of people sitting around smoking and drinking, doing the things that pub goers usually do in pubs. He looked around slowly, thinking, will I recognise him? What do I say to him? And then their eyes met …

How did this happen, when did it all begin?

It all began when Christopher Fowler had been accepted by the London School of Music to complete a Masters degree in Music. He had completed his Bachelor of Music at Auckland University the previous year and had decided to try his luck in London. He had packed, sold off all his meagre student belongings and said an emotional farewell to his parents and set off for the UK and London.

He fell in love with London the moment he stepped out of Heathrow Airport; it felt as if he had come home. He had arranged accommodation before leaving New Zealand, a neat little bed-sit in Hampstead. It was January and the weather was not exactly a Kiwi summer, however, no bad weather could dampen his enthusiasm and he couldn’t get enough of the London culture. While travelling around and absorbing all the wonderful sights and sounds of London, he kept thinking what a wise man that Dr. Samuel Johnston was when he said those now famous words: "When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford."

The morning of his first lecture had arrived, he had got to the campus early and on entering the lecture theatre found that there were already a few students sitting there. He had only just sat down when a pretty red head girl came over and smiled at him.

“Hi, Ken, isn’t it?”

“No” he smiled, rather puzzled. “Chris... Chris Fowler, do I know you?”

“Oh, sorry, you look very much like someone I met at a party last week in Oxford, my name’s Karen.” she replied apologetically. “I detect a slight accent, it’s familiar but I can’t put my finger on it.”

“I’m a Kiwi,” he said proudly. “I’m from Auckland; I’m here to do my masters.”

“Cool, there are a lot of your compatriots studying music here so I’m sure you won’t be too homesick. I’m also doing my masters so we should be seeing a lot more of each other. Anyway, I have to run, enjoy your first day and sorry again for the mistake, see you later.” And with that she rushed off to the back of the lecture theatre leaving him gaping after her. He had a feeling that he would be seeing a lot more of this girl.

A few weeks after his first meeting with Karen, Chris was sitting in the student’s cafeteria having lunch when she and another student, approached.

“Hi Chris,” she greeted him warmly. “I would like you to meet my friend Jim, Jim is studying science at Oxford and is in London for a few days’ break, Jim, this is Chris, the guy I was telling you about.”

“Hi, pleased to meet you,” said Chris standing up and extending his hand in greeting.

“Incredible!” remarked Jim, grasping Chris’s hand warmly. “You were right, Karry, there is quite a resemblance, I can hardly believe my eyes.”

“Resemblance, what are you two talking about? Who do I resemble?” Chris asked with a puzzled look on his face.

“You, mate, are a carbon copy of my roommate in Oxford, Ken…Ken Wilson, it is quite uncanny you could be twins” explained Jim. “Eerie, very eerie.”

“Well my star sign is Gemini, the twins that might explain it.” He said smiling facetiously

Chris knew he had been adopted. His parents had been very open with him and had told him everything they knew but nothing had been said about brothers or sisters let alone twins. They had told him that he had been born in the UK and that they had adopted him while they were there on their OE. He was two years old when they got him and had returned to New Zealand almost immediately. He had grown up in a very happy, upper middle class home and had had plenty of love and affection from his adoptive parents. Even with the knowledge of his adoption he never had any desire to find out anything about his biological parents and it never even occurred to him to ask whether he had any siblings… until now.

“Well, I will have to meet this mysterious twin some time, won’t I?” Chris tried to sound flippant and disinterested. “Sorry, I have a class in 5 minutes. Gotta rush. Catch you later, Karry. Nice meeting you, Jim.”

He could not concentrate on his lecture, all day long he kept thinking: Twins, twins the words kept repeating themselves in his brain. His stomach was knotted. Could it be true, could he have a twin brother? No, surely not, was it possible…?

When he arrived back in his room that evening he immediately sent an e-mail to his parents, telling them what had happened and asking them if there was any chance that he had a twin brother in the UK. Their reply came a few hours later saying that they did not think he had a twin brother but it was possible as it was a long time ago and the agencies were not as thorough then as they were now and that they would try to find the adoption papers and the address of the agency in London and send them off to him. This would take a week or two so he would have to be patient. He was sure that there was little chance of him having a twin brother. He would just put the whole episode out of his mind and get on with his studies…although he had to admit he was intrigued.

to be continued..........

The Haka and the Tri-Nations series

2005-08-29T11:42:00.000+12:00

Monday morning and the South African population of New Zealand are all in mourning after the Springboks were defeated by the All Blacks on Saturday night. It was a very exciting game with both side playing superb rugby, the final score 31-27. Another great feature of the game was the unleashing of the All Black’s new “Haka”. The following article appeared on TVNZ’s news web site:

It is as defining and famous as their rugby prowess, but on Saturday night, the All Blacks surprised everyone when they unleashed a new rendition of their pre-match haka.
The especially written war cry has been a closely-guarded secret among players, who have been rehearsing and refining it for months. And while its debut at Carisbrook proved popular among fans, don't expect to see it performed at every test.
The pre-match haka is the brainchild of the players who say they want to forge a new legacy. "It also represented a lot of the things we felt were strong within us, the blackness of the jersey, the silver fern," says All Blacks captain Tana Umaga.
The new war cry was written for the team by Ngati Porou's Derek Lardelli and players had spent months rehearsing it but kept the secret to themselves.
"It was fantastic. It's always awesome to stand in front of the haka," says South African captain John Smit. "It's probably one of the most special things about playing the All Blacks."
The new haka will be used alongside the traditional 'ka' mate' which was popularised a century ago and used in various guises almost ever since.
"You've got to move with the times and these young men have thought about it and gone to a few people I'm sure and they do the haka so much better than we ever did it," says former All Black Tane Norton.
"I mean, we used to love doing the haka and loved doing it for the people of New Zealand but now they practice it with a lot of passion and do a good job of it," he says.
A new challenge to take a new generation of All Blacks on to victory.

The final outcome of the Tri-nations series (SA, Aussie and NZ) will be determined after next week’s clash between the All Blacks and the Wallabies. The Springboks still stand to win the series, how? I don’t really know, but I’m sure someone will soon enlighten me.

Summer is well on the way, it is getting warmer and warmer and is getting light a lot earlier in the mornings now. Reminds me of that little ditty which we used to recite as kids

“Spring has sprung, the grass has ris, I wonder where the birdies is?”
(Excuse the bad English)
Have a good week.

Wednesday midweek, down hill to the Weekend

2005-08-17T11:40:00.000+12:00

Wednesday, mid-week, downhill to the weekend, I now live for my weekends.

Since our last tenant left the downstairs flat we have been battling to find permanent tenants. We finally found a sweet little South African girl who is very keen on the place but can only move in on the 1st October, she has some kind of lease restraint where she is living now. Anyway we have agreed to let her have the place but need to fill it until then. Well, thanks to a good friend of ours, who used to run a B&B, we have let it to a new immigrant family of three from South Africa. They arrived last night and have settled in nicely. Hopefully they will stay until the end of September by which time they will have found something more permanent.

‘Twas a big day for Evan yesterday, he had his braces removed after two years of being a “metal mouth”, and so handsome he is too.Click here to see the new smile. http://www.flickr.com/photos/irene_wood/34454416/

Had an extra dose of culture last Sunday when Evan and I went to a free symphony concert at the Auckland town hall. (Irene stayed at home and prepared the flat for our guests). The Auckland Symphony Orchestra performed music with a Scandinavian flavour. The music was very enjoyable with lots of light and classical numbers from Scandinavian composers. The highlight of the afternoon was a performance of one Griegs piano concertos, the soloist being a young 13 year old Korean lad who played this very difficult movement from memory with no sheet music at all. His performance was incredible and needless to say was rewarded by a standing ovation.

Sunday was also the 60th anniversary of VJ day (the day marking the end of WW2 and the allied victory against Japan, and to commemorate this there was a big parade up Queen Street involving the veterans and present armed forces of NZ. The parade was addressed by the mayor of Auckland, the prime minister and the governor general. The weather was sunny and all in all a pleasant day.

Anyway, it’s back to to work for me, lunch time is over. Roll on Friday, until next time, be well.

The weekend beckons

2005-08-11T14:33:00.000+12:00

It’s Thursday, cloudy but surprisingly warm for this time of year.
The week has been quite eventful. Last Sunday we went to watch the finals of the KBB music festival competition in which Evan’s school had four bands participating: The Concert Band (in which E plays), The Symphony Orchestra, The Chamber Orchestra and The Big Band (Jazz). All four won Gold awards, which is quite an achievement considering there were 105 groups (Bands) entered, representing 40 schools from all over NZ. Westlake Boys and Girls have excellent music departments and extremely talented students. Evan enjoys school and we are happy that he changed from Corelli.
Monday evening we attended the prize giving of an essay writing competition sponsored by our local Free Mason Lodge. The competition was open to all North Shore secondary schools (High Schools) (12 in all). Anyway, Evan’s teacher had submitted one of his exam essays for which he won third prize. (A very nice NZ oxford dictionary) We are so proud.
Tuesday evening was another of the school music events; it was a showcase of all the groups from both the boys and girls schools, including all the choirs, bands and Barbershop group. This event was held at the very beautiful Bruce Mason Theatre in Takapuna. A great evening’s entertainment was had by all.
Well, that’s all for now, happily tomorrow is Friday and the weekend beckons. Have a good one.
P.S. Check out My Flicker for more pics of the bands and other interesting stuff. http://www.flickr.com/photos/aqw/

The weeks fly by...

2005-08-05T08:31:00.000+12:00

Evan Playing
Originally uploaded by imogen.

It's Friday again! How the weeks just fly by, the older one gets the quicker time flies. The week has been a relatively good one, it has been Amanda's birthday week and started with a dinner party at their (Darren and Amanda's) flat on Monday night and will end with a party tonight (also at their flat).
Other exciting happenings for the week: The family acquired a new laptop computer (Mainly used by Evan and Irene, I'm still happy with my desktop). Evan’s concert band has got into the finals of a secondary school band competition involving schools from all over NZ; they will be performing on Sunday at the Auckland city hall. Talking about Evan, he is a very modest young man; we found out last night, by accident, that his English teacher entered one of his exam essays into a writing competition involving all the secondary schools on the North Shore (12 in all). Well, we are proud to say that he has been placed in the top four. We will be attending a function on Monday when they will announce the winner, we will be holding thumbs. (Watch this site; I may persuade him to let me publish the essay).
It is starting to get light earlier in the mornings now and the sound of the birds singing lifts my spirits. Summer is on the way.

Soweto Gospel Choir

2005-07-30T10:40:00.000+12:00

Soweto Gospel Choir
Originally uploaded by Alfie1.

In my first posting at the bottom of this page, I mentioned that, for my Birthday, the family had bought tickets for the Soweto Gospel Choir. Well, last Monday (26th July) we braved the Auckland peak hour traffic and travelled over the Harbour Bridge and headed south to Manakau city where they were performing. To say that it was one of the most professional, vibrant and exciting shows I had ever seen, is an understatement. I spent the whole show moving, applauding and battling to keep the lump out of my throat. I will not try to review the show as Amanda has already done a wonderful job in her blog. (Click here to read it)
Also, if you click on “My Flicker” to the left, you can see some more pictures. Enjoy 

Mind the gap

2005-07-23T07:52:00.000+12:00

Originally uploaded by darren131.

This reminds me so much of London and the many laughs we had when we were young and enjoying our OE.
About a year ago I took an evening class in creative writing and wrote a short piece of fiction based on some of those laughs we had. Now, I'm no literary genius but here goes, enjoy.

Mind the Gap

I remember lying at the top of the steps of the hotel at which I worked. The words “Mind the Gap” came to mind, they were the recorded words used at the Earls Court and other underground stations in and around London when getting on or off the tube train. I remember wanting to scream and use all those colourful profanities which I had learned. The pain was excruciating, my shin was throbbing where I had bumped it on the top step, and to add insult to injury, my fly had broken on impact. Worst of all my embarrassment was causing me the most pain. Phil and James, my best friends, flatmates and compatriots, were doubled over with hysterical laughter. I however did not share their mirth. I have always wondered how anyone could laugh at another’s misfortunes.
I was 19 years old and on my OE (Overseas Experience) in London. It had taken Phil and James a while to convince me, and a huge effort on my part, to pluck up the courage to take the plunge. I had always been very shy and a bit of an introvert.
Phil and I had met at school when we were both 13 years old. Phil was the exact opposite of me; he was loud, funny, good-looking and very popular. He was also not averse to getting up to a little mischief. I was intimidated by him.
We met one Wednesday afternoon after swimming practice at the school swimming pool. We were fairly accomplished swimmers and had both just been picked for the house team. I was drying off and was about to get dressed when Phil came bounding into the change room.
“Nice swim” he bellowed. “Glad you’re on my team. What class are you in?”
“Standard 6B” I replied quietly.
“Oh, one of the clever ones hey? You got old Big Boobs Bertha as your form teacher”. He said with a distinctly wicked smile.
I nodded, going red and grinning slightly.
“Where do you live?” He asked
“In Y-Yeo Street,” I stammered.
“Oh good,” he smiled. “I live in Francis Street. I’ll walk home with you; Francis Street is the next block after Yeo Street.”
I knew that but just smiled and nodded my head stupidly. I was a little apprehensive and quite nervous about walking home with this boy, given his reputation. However, I did walk home with him and learned a lot about him and his family.
Phil and his older brother James were born in Cyprus to a Greek mother and English father. Their father had abandoned them when they were very young; Phil was only two and James three. Their mom battled to raise them alone in a country ravaged by internal strife and civil war. Cyprus in the 1950’s was not a safe place to live for any one, let alone a single woman with two young children, so scraping together enough money to get them a passage out of the country she packed and left Cyprus and it’s bad memories. Her brother and his family, who had moved to Johannesburg some years before, had invited her to come and live with them. Virtually penniless and with none of them speaking much English they arrived in their new country. Phil was five and James six when they arrived, they were enrolled in school and soon learned to speak English. Their mom managed to find work in a clothing factory as a sewing machine operator earning a pittance but with the help of her brother and his family she managed to feed and clothe her and the boys. They all embraced their new way of life and were happy and grateful to be in a new and safe country.
By the time I got home on that day, I realised that the loud, boisterous and mischievous boy who used to terrify and intimidate me, was actually a fun-loving (albeit a tad mischievous) and friendly kid. And so began a friendship which would continue for well over 40 years.
It was a strange friendship between a shy, awkward introvert and a noisy, naughty extrovert raising many eyebrows amongst not only our peers but our schoolteachers as well. To say that I was not being influenced and led astray by this boy would have been a bit of an understatement, Phil taught me to smoke, swear and bunk school, but most of all he taught me to have fun and laugh. I was having the time of my life and was beginning to lighten up a lot, although it would still take a few years before I would eventually come out of my shell.
Phil’s brother James also became a good friend and the three of us became inseparable. We used to hang out together both in and out of school and became known as the Fearsome Threesome. None of us were ever aggressive; we were just happy-go-lucky kids.
I can remember when we would bunk school and sit on a hill overlooking our school smoking cigarettes and fantasising about girls and what we were going to do when we left school. We were going to buy a Land Rover and find three of the most beautiful girls and the six of us would travel the length of Africa. We would drive from Cape Town to Cairo and then cross the Mediterranean and travel through Europe working at odd jobs as we went, eventually ending in London where we would all find fantastic jobs and all live in a huge house and become hippies. We were still too young and naïve to realise that hippies didn’t have jobs or houses, fantastic or otherwise.
Our dreams and fantasies stayed with us until we finished school. I headed off to do compulsory military training for 9 months and Phil and James entered apprenticeships in the printing industry.
Part of our lifelong dream was eventually fulfilled when, after much persuasion and cajoling, our parents agreed to allow us all to head off to London on our Big OE. My military training had helped with my self-confidence although Phil and James still had to do a bit of persuading to get me to agree to go. The driving through Africa part of our fantasy had to be abandoned but still remains a dream for all of us.
“It’s time to find work, guys.” I remarked one afternoon while sitting in a pub on Kensington high street. “I’m almost all out of cash, and I’ve no desire to go back home.”
We had just arrived back in London after finishing a three-month hitch hiking tour of the UK and Europe and were staying in a youth hostel.
“I was thinking the same thing, let’s head off to the OVC (Overseas Visitors Club) and see if they have any thing for us.” James was up and heading for the door.
“What about a decent pad?” Phil asked.
“Let’s get jobs first and then we can worry about where we are going to live.” replied James, always the sensible one.
I managed to find a position as a porter in a tourist hotel in Earls Court and because I could speak a second language (Dutch), I was able to get a work permit for a year.
Both Phil and James had completed their apprenticeships so were offered good jobs in the printing industry.
We didn’t earn much, but together we could afford a flat in Barons Court, which was within walking distance to where we all worked, and even though we weren’t hippies, we looked and felt the part.
I woke up early on that Sunday morning, the sun was blazing through the window and there weren’t many clouds in the sky. It was one of those perfect English summer mornings; if anyone has experienced an English summer morning they will know what it is like. It made me feel happy to be alive - my spirits were soaring. Phil and James were still asleep. We had been to a particularly good party the previous night and had all overdone the drinking and smoking thing. I was determined not to have a hangover and had drunk a litre of water before going to bed; it was a remedy, which always helped me.
I had heard that there was a tour group of American college girls checking into the hotel that morning, and being a red blooded young man with raging hormones, I wanted to go and ‘check’ them out for myself. Phil wanted to go with me as he was also girl-less at that time. James was the only one with a girlfriend and we were becoming more and more envious.
“Wake up you lazy shit,” I shouted in Phil’s ear, “I am already washed and dressed and we have to get to the hotel to check out the chicks.”
“Fuck off and leave me alone.” Phil mumbled pulling the blankets over his head.
“Come on, you pussy, wakey, wakey, there’s a whole busload of chicks waiting for us and it’s a beautiful day, Carpe Diem”
“Carpe Diem! Piss off with your carpe shit and make me a cuppa coffee and I’ll get up” smiled Phil.
“Get up now and I’ll organise us a nice big breakfast at the hotel” I promised.
“Oh, alright then, you are worse than my mother, you prick” he complained getting up.
“What’s this about a breakfast?” slurred James rubbing his eyes.
“Well, if you move your arse and get up and get dressed, you can join us for breakfast, but keep your eyes off the chicks, you’re already getting your leg over.”
Within fifteen minutes we were on our way to the hotel. It was a ten-minute walk. The brothers were both sporting hangovers and had to wear there shades to stop them looking as though they could be bleeding to death from their eyes.
As we rounded the corner near the hotel we could see the tour bus parked in front of the entrance. There were forty to fifty young college girls standing around on the sidewalk waiting to hear what rooms they were in or maybe waiting for their luggage to be unloaded. They all looked so good, I thought I’d died and gone to heaven.
Why is it that when a young man’s hormones start to rage and his loins start to stir, he does stupid things like trying to act all macho? Is it because there is a sudden rush of blood to the wrong head? Who knows? I was no exception that day. As we got to the steps leading up to the entrance, surrounded by all those lovely college girls, I decided to run up the steps. Very macho and a huge mistake, naturally I missed the top step and came down like a ton of bricks, banging my shin, splitting my jeans’ fly and really hurting my pride. I heard the “oohs” and “aahs” of sympathy and the little giggles from some of the girls. My face burning red hot with embarrassment.
“Mind the Gap” shouted my friends in unison, roaring with hysterical laughter.

THE END

NZ Winter Newsletter

2005-07-14T16:30:00.000+12:00

It has been a long time since I sent out a newsletter from New Zealand. Usually I send via email but I have discovered "Blogging" and as the heading on this blog says "This blog records some of my thoughts and newsletters from New Zealand" So here goes!

Hi to all my friends and family,

Life in New Zealand still goes on and hasn't changed much since last we communicated.
I think the last newsletter was before Christmas last year. We spent from Christmas day until 8th January (15 days in total) in Australia. We had an absolute ball. Our trip started in Brisbane and ended in Sydney. We hired a camper and travelled down the coast to various seaside resorts eventually ending in Sydney where we spent 5 wonderful days exploring the city. What a great city. All three of us, Irene, Evan and I have fallen in love with Aussie. Australia is a very organised country, everything works and the people are so friendly, and the weather......just wonderful. All too soon we had to fly back to NZ. As NZ citizens we now have the right to live and work in Aussie and are thinking seriously of moving across the ditch (as the Tasman sea is known here) when we retire, we want to become "Grey Nomads". In Australia retired travellers are called "Grey Nomads". They usually travel north in winter in their campers to catch the warmer weather and return south for spring and summer. Some "Grey Nomads" have sold their homes choosing to travel on a continuous basis. There are many "Grey" employment agents around Australia who help find temporary employment for retired people, employment like: Fruit picking, office temps, drivers, teachers and many other types of work.

Another nice thing about Australia is that it is not far from NZ and is very cheap to travel to, in fact it is cheaper to fly from Auckland to Brisbane or Sydney than it is to fly to Christchurch on the South Island. Now that Virgin (Pacific Blue) has joined the trans Tasman route the fares are really competitive. A return flight to Brisbane, Sunshine Coast or Sydney is under $200.00 NZ, very affordable. One could easily go over for a long weekend. The cost of living is also lower in Aussie than in NZ. No wonder there are more Kiwis leaving than Aussies coming in.

Last summer was late in coming, people were expecting a white Christmas, but when it did arrive in Mid January, it arrived with a vengeance. We had lovely sunshine and warm days and evenings right up until May and even now the winter has been pretty mild with just a few very cold and rainy days. The average temperature is around 13c to 15c which is quite warm for this time of year. After five years here, I am not that naive to expect it to last, it will get colder and wetter before this winter is over.

If I've not already told you, I've had to give up teaching as the whole language industry in NZ and, I think, the rest of the English speaking world, has taken a dive. I was fortunate in finding a very nice job in an engineering company. They required someone to setup and run their new planning MRP system. So now I'm their Office Systems Manager. It is a nice stress free, cushy job and I'm enjoying it, although I do miss teaching. The company has built a brand new factory in a small village called Silverdale which is about 40 minutes (25 kullometres)Unit of distance in New Zealand North of Auckland and just 12 minutes from my home. It is great, we move in on the 1st September.

We had a good laugh on Sunday 3rd July. We went to Darren and Manda to fit the new Roman blinds which Irene made for them. Well, with no ladder anywhere in the building, I decided that a knitting machine table on a coffee table would be good enough to get me onto the cupboard which would put me in a good position to fit the blinds to the window. All went well and the blinds were fitted with only minor adjustments needed. It was while doing those adjustments that it happened. I was standing on the knitting machine table when it decided that my weight was not compatible with the knitting machine and slowly split in half. To break my fall I grabbed the cupboard for support. The cupboard, I'm sure, had long ago decided that it was not a ladder and would not support me so it came down with me smashing to smithereens. Fortunately I was not hurt, just a few stiff muscles and a bruise here and there, but the cupboard was a write-off. Needless to say the cupboard has now been replaced with a brand new one and Manda has banned me from climbing on anything that is not a ladder.

The family here in NZ is well. Darren is excelling at work and has finally been awarded permanent residence. Irene is also doing well in her career and loves her job . Evan continues to do well at his music and school. I am content with my job and have started painting again, it's good therapy.

Anyway, please read the rest of my blog hereunder and feel free to browse "My Flickr" pages the link is to the right of this page. Also I would love some comments, just click "comments" next to the little envelope and make your comments.

As always, we send with this newsletter all our love to all of you.

Alf, Irene, Evan, Darren and Amanda

This says it all.

2005-07-10T15:52:00.000+12:00

This is a message to all those would be bombers out there.

Sunny Sunday

2005-07-10T08:18:00.000+12:00

Well it's Sunday again and the Sun is shining. After the gloomy week of terror attacks in London, the heart warms at the attitude of the British people, so stoic in times of crisis.

There are about 20,000 Lions supporters in Auckland and although they were soundly beaten by the All Blacks, their spirits were not dampened in any way; they have had a great tour. It makes me proud to have British roots.

On Friday night Irene and I went to our local RSA (Returned Servicemans Association) and had a few drinks and watched the "old fogies" dancing like spring chickens, made us feel ashamed that we are so unfit. We have resolved to take dance lesson and get fit.
While there I found a eulogy(or is it an eulogy) in one of their magazines which I would like to share.

"Today we mourn the passing of a beloved old friend, Common Sense, who has been with us for many years. No one knows for sure how old he was since birth records were long ago lost in bureaucratic red tape. He will be remembered as having cultivated such valuable lessons as knowing when to come in out of the rain, why the early bird gets the worm and that life isn’t always fair. Common Sense lived by simple, sound financial policies (don’t spend more that you earn) and reliable parenting strategies (adults, not children are in charge). His health began to deteriorate rapidly when well intentioned but overbearing regulations were set in place. Reports of a six-year-old boy charged with sexual harassment for kissing a classmate; teens suspended from school for using mouthwash after lunch; and a teacher fired for reprimanding an unruly student, only worsened his condition. It declined even further when schools were required to get parental consent to administer Panadol to a student; but, could not inform the parents when a student became pregnant and wanted to have an abortion.

Finally, Common Sense lost the will to live as the Ten Commandments became contraband; churches became businesses; and criminals received better treatment than their victims.

Common Sense finally gave up the ghost after a woman failed to realize that a steaming cup of coffee was hot. She spilled a little in her lap, and was promptly awarded a huge settlement.

Common Sense was preceded in death by his parents, Truth and Trust, his wife, Discretion; his daughter, Responsibility; and his son, Reason. He is survived by three stepbrothers; I Know My Rights, I’m a Whinger and I’m a Victim.
Not many attended his funeral because so few realized he was gone. If you still remember him pass this on, if not join the majority and do nothing!"

Anyway, those were my thoughts for this week, have a good one!!
PS. If anyone should find any typos or grammar mistakes, please let me know.

Red Barn - Matakana

2005-07-03T16:22:00.000+12:00

Red Barn
Originally uploaded by Alfie1.

It's a cracker of a Sunday morning, sun shining although it is crisp.
Yesterday, we took a drive to Matakana north of Auckland. They have a Saturday morning market of organic foods produced by the local farmers. It was truly an enjoyable experience.
Today we are going to Darren and Amanda's to fit the first of the Roman blinds which Irene has made for them. We are taking a roast pork with us and will have the traditional Sunday Roast.
Right now, I'm chatting to Brad on MSN Webcam and watching "Live 8" in the background.
It's now 9;45am and I must start my day, so have a good week and sign the Live 8 website.

33rd Wedding Anniversary.

2005-06-24T07:52:00.000+12:00

Today, I celebrate 33 years of marriage to my Darling wife Irene. We have really been blessed. We have had 33 years of happiness, three wonderful sons who we are VERY proud of and we live in a beautiful country albeit wet. What more can I want?

Another Sunday another week

2005-06-19T07:13:00.000+12:00

It's Sunday and another week has gone by and a shit week it was. My better half spent three days at a sustainability conference in Palmerston North, there was a bug in my MRP programme at work and the weather was not too marvelous, none of which helped me in my constant battle against depression. However, every dark cloud has a silver lining, Darren popped in for a quick visit, it always cheers me up when he visits and also Evan gives me lots of hugs, so what more can a dad ask for? Although it would be great to have all three of the boys here, or should I say all four of the boys. (Grandson as well)
Well, lets all have a good week 'till next time.

Sunday Evening

2005-06-12T17:40:00.000+12:00

So it's Sunday evening. Spent most of the day painting and framing my pics. Really rewarding.
I find Sunday eveninings a little depressing - work tomorrow

My first posting

2005-06-12T13:32:00.000+12:00

This is my first posting.
It is Saturday evening after a cool but sunny day in Auckland, New Zealand. After returning from our usual Saturday morning shopping excursion, I spent the afternoon painting in the conservatory which we have renamed "The Studio". I am into painting sunsets and sunrises at the moment and am busy with two right now. One is of a South African Bush sunset and the other is of the sun setting behind "The Houses of Parliament" Westminster, London. Both are from photos which I saw in a travel brochure and are completely different in style. I must say that my preference is of African scenes, probably because they remind me of my birthplace which I long to see again.
Talking of Africa, for my birthday, my family clubbed together and bought us tickets to see "The Soweto Gospel Singers" who are touring New Zealand in July. They all know (the family that is) that anything remotely African brings on a flood of emotional tears of homesickness. So I will spend the entire performance with tears rolling down my cheaks. They have been warned.
Winter in New Zealand is, for me, a very depressing time. I don't mind the cold, though I don't love it, but I really hate the wet. Put the two together and you have a very depressed Alf. New Zealand has winter rains and the fact that we have the coldest houses in the world doesn't help in lightening my mood. Funny, but the winters I have spent in London didn't seem to worry me, maybe it is because I was younger then or maybe London has so much more to offer. In the words of Samuel Johnson "No, Sir, when a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford."
I think the fact that we will be visiting our Son, Grandson and other relatives in London at Christmas, will get me through this winter. Roll on Chistmas.