Poetry. My Bro

My Bro.
Number one.
You have started the ball rolling for the next generation of Fitzthum’s
Something that was not expected you many years yet.
Although we have lived mostly long distances from each other for a large part of our lives, there has always been a communication, especially since I have moved to Australia.
I was looking forward to coming to Perth to spend Christmas with you and spending some quality time, but obviously too late, now all I have are those years of great memories.
Goodbye Bro.

This little pig never went to market

THIS LITTLE PIG NEVER WENT TO THE MARKET.


Here is a story that has survived nearly 50 years though good times and bad.


It all happened when some friends of mine Elaine and Alan Thomas invited me and my current girl friend to enjoy a few Feastive drinks and what was to be a nice meal but somehow when the time came to slice off some of their precious leg of ham it was to Elaine’s horror that somebody had got there before her, precisely a blow fly had worked it’s way into their safe, the only means of keeping the food cool in those early days , horror soon turned into a life long joke and it became a legend after my discovery of a cute card of a even cuter smiling pig.
Over the years which soon turned into decades the precious card has been passed from Elaine and I and back again, each being the minder for the next twelve months, A small comment was added each year and soon a photo copy was added, then a follow up card to cater for the messages, apart from a few times over the years of child raising not too many times were missed . At first the card was posted to each other but as time moved on and the card got fragile it was decided to hand deliver it.
Over the years this card has become a symbol of everlasting friendship that teaches one that all the up’s and down’s of life can be held together in a bond of a small card that has survived three score and ten.
Throughout the year this card is not forgotten, whoever is the minder quite often is reminded about keeping it in a safe place , Elaine and Alan’s daughter Annette has come to respect it to the extend that it is one of the most precious items that she wants passed on to her so she can treasure and realise that something so small can keep the quality of friendship alive for many more years to come.

Fond memories.

Jim Fitzthum.

Travel Overseas. My School Reunion

“My School Reunion”

On Tuesday 25th March 2003 my sister Nancy and I made the journey back to New Zealand for our Convent School Reunion at Te Aroha, our brother Maurice who also lives in Australia was four wheel driving and caravanning around the country with his wife Shirley and couldn’t make the trip
Sis. And I travelled by Freedom Air from Brisbane to Hamilton arriving at the horrible time of midnight. During the flight Nancy and I were discussing the reunion when the person sitting besides us heard us and would you believe he was going to the same reunion, he introduces himself as Jim Kilbride and was actually in Nancy’s class so the time soon past as the past schooling years were talked out.
Our other sister Noeline and husband Kevin were there to take us back to their place in Paeroa. We had a lot of things to talk about and finally got to bed about 3 am.
Next morning we needed to try out Kevin’s new barbeque area and enjoyed a suicide breakfast of bacon, eggs, tomatoes and Kumara ( oh how I miss this N.Z. sweet potato), this was topped off with lots of toasted buns.
As the reunion was not till Friday 28th this gave us an opportunity to visit our Uncle Max and my favourite Aunt Gloria at Red beach, near Orewa, a journey of nearly two hours. It was nice to see them again after 12 months since I left N.Z. to live in Australia, they both looked really good and of course our Aunt excelled herself as usual by her cooking, somehow the kitchen always runs so smoothly and produces some yummy food.
Next morning Max took Nancy, Noeline and Kevin on a tour of Whangaparoa Peninsular and Gulf harbour, I had seen this area often so Gloria and I sifted through boxes of photos, my favourite pastime, later we all took a trip to the home village of our ancestors called Puhoi, this Bohemian settlement has always meant so much to me, full of history and family ties. There is the lovely old wooden church, the school is now a museum and the old Puhoi Pub, the inside just oozes with relics of past generations, many of the photos linked my family and old implements used my our early pioneers. Time for a family photo among the history. A visit to the old Fitzthum homestead where my brother and I were born to is always a pleasure, the old villa is still standing in all its glory, a second story had been added and the inside has been tastefully renovated with wood panelling and period furniture.
I almost forgot to mention our uncle Max managed to attract a traffic cop while travelling through town at 71 klms. And hour in a 50 klm area, I think his years in Real Estate paid off, somehow he convinced the inspector he was busy showing his Australian relations the sights, he was let off with a warning.
On our return to Paeroa we called into Masonic Village to see our only other aunt, Ethel, who is now sadly a very sick lady and needs full care now, my memory of her was always as a lovely well spoken lady who always kept a neat and tidy home and now this is reduced to a small room in the hospital wing.
Arriving back to Paeroa late we all managed a little extra sleep in. Sending Kevin off to work Nancy, Noeline and I took a drive to the old Gold mining town of Thames, it was a showery day so we took shelter in the Goldfields shopping centre where I managed to buy some souvenirs to take home, during lunch down town I met some old friends from Hamilton, I guess this happens when you have been around for so long.
Friday night was the start of the reunion with a mix and mingles to meet with former pupils and old friends. It had been over fifty years since I left the school but over the years my ties with Te Aroha gave me the opportunity to keep in touch with many old school friends, the others who had moved away it was great to meet them again. No matter how old and wrinkled we look, after a few minutes talking we were still the same people as all those years ago.
The Saturday gathering brought lots more, school friends like Ernie Prime who I had seen occasionally in Hamilton, but his sister Violet, I hadn’t seen for over 25 years, other class friends included Kevin Fitzpatrick, Brian Fisher, some of the Fitzgerald and Mc McCarthy clan, Don Laurenson, Doug Finnegan, Mary Nobilo and Jack Cranch to name a few. My sister was busy going around meeting her class friends, being six years younger than I, a lot of them I just new by name except her close friends like Margaret Geraghty, (Mary Cronin wasn’t there but came to see Nancy next day). Some of brother Maurice’s school classes like the Magill brothers, some of the McCarthy’s, Margaret Schuler asked about him and to pass on a big hello.
The afternoon was taken up with group photos, mine took in pupils from 1940-1949 and there were so many of us it had to be done in two sittings. While waiting for my turn I was surprised to see a cousin of mine, Margaret Sutherland (Becker), her husband Colin had attended the convent school, also Tom Krippner’s cousin ( my second cousin) from Karapiro was there I just spoke to him briefly, his wife was a past pupil also.
After a very nice dinner served by the local restaurant Mokena it was dance time with some of the original band members who played in the Catholic hall from the early 60’s. Singer Ivor Fisher and piano player Geoff Case could still produce the great music of that very special era; in my younger days I never missed the Saturday night dances there. Sadly I couldn’t join in any of the dancing as I am waiting for a hip replacement operation, my penalty of being a health fanatic most of my life and always running marathons and less, plus high impact gym work. It was surprising to discover just how many of my fellow school friends have had the same operation and now could rock and roll and dance, this is very encouraging for me.
Two other ladies I met again after many decades were Renee McFarlane from Morrinsville( can’t remember her married name), she kindly pointed out another ex-Waitoa lady, Pat Steffert who used to come to school with us on the bus along with her brothers.
After a very enjoyable reunion with our past school days it had really been worth the effort to come all this way from Australia to join in the celebrations and meet up with all our friends from our old school.
A standing joke among my fellow ex-pupils was to remember the sore knuckles and hands where certain nuns would enforce their discipline.
On the Sunday my friends Gary and Patrice came to Paeroa to take me back to Hamilton for three days, we had a short stop at Waitoa to once again take a look at our small home we spent most of our early days, This was the first time I had met Patrice, having already spoken to her many times by phone it was great to finally meet this charming lady, it is the best thing that has ever happened to my friend Gary. I stayed the night with them and had the use of his car while in Hamilton which was a real bonus to be able to get around to visit lots of my friends I had made in the 40 plus years of living here.
First on my list was my foster daughter Rosenne and her husband Gary, they had been to visit me in Mooloolaba and fallen in love with my little paradise. I bought them a framed picture of the beach which they had admired and were so excited to have it, also my cousins Thelma and Colin Niel, good to see them also. A look in at my old unit was a bit sad, the garden was empty bar the weeds and shrubs overgrown, I was able to see one of my ex-neighbours, Jean, caught up on all the local gossip, ( Margaret and Leslie were not home)
Sunday evening Gary and Patrice took me to a welcome home for me at the Workingmans Club, lots of friends, reminded me of my farewell 12 months ago in the same place. I don’t like fuss but it was so nice to enjoy the gathering of so many friends, I have always kept in touch with them but it is much better to speak to them in person. Another great moment was being able to meet again a childhood friend, Roy Oates who lived next door to me in Waitoa, it must be 50 plus years since we had seen each other, it was thanks to my friends Elaine and Alan Thomas, along with Annette, their daughter who arranged for Roy and his partner Audrey to come over from Rotorua to spend the evening with me. Other friends included Fay & Bob Sparrow, Don & Judy Lines, Gerald Enright and his friend Ann, Des and Deanne. Another surprise was my dear old friend of college days, Marie Brocklesby, I had kept in touch with her over the years and it was nice to see her again. Also Jim & Jean hill, Nancy’s brother-in –law were there, they were going to pick her up and bring her to Hamilton for two days.
Monday morning I called into Greens Garden Centre where I had worked, it still looked lovely but there were only two people I new there. Morning tea at Placemakers where I had also worked gave me a chance to meet many of my ex-work mates and sample a huge muffin. A lot of my friends were working, I did manage a look around central Hamilton which still looks great except the old Bus Depot, it is in a disgraceful state, graffiti, broken windows boarded up, it looks like Baghdad after a bombing raid, I have sent a letter to the Mayor expressing my disappointment and embarrassment for tourist coming into the city.
Later in the day I moved into Fay & Bob’s home and managed to catch up with quite a few people by phone, after sampling a few glasses of the brown liquid we all went to dinner at the Loaded Hog, again there were more friends there, Jim & Jean had brought Nancy, Jean & Alex, John & Elaine & an ex-neighbour Leslie. As in the past meals there it was a very tasty dinner shared with great friends. Later we walked to the new Casino in the main Street, built around the old art decor Post Office it was a thrill to see the results of lifting the huge glass tiled dome to make a very attractive entranceway. I lost my usual limit of $2 on the pokies
Tuesday I was lucky to find some of my friends home, Gary’s parents Doug & Val, sampled some of his prize tomatoes, lunch with Elaine & Alan’s home. I also managed to spend some time with Bruce & Dolsie, my sign writer friends who are in the process of crossing the ditch, hopefully to settle in Brisbane. Bruce is the artist who created lots of lovely small gifts for me, my face was displayed on glasses, frig magnets and coasters. It was nice to catch up with Dave & Lynne Taylor who have a florist in town, also Brigit who worked with me in the Garden centre. Walking the streets of Hamilton I was soon chatting with quite a few folk I new, some were surprised that I don’t live here anymore.
Time had moved on to my last night, say goodbye to friends and change my lodgings to stay with Gerald, had a nice quiet meal at home with him and a good chat. Our plane was leaving at 6.20 am. So it was an early start for the airport. My friend Gerald kindly set an alarm for me, great except he had the clock upside down, goodness knows what time the alarm would go off! I did wake with plenty of time.
I hate goodbyes and thank goodness there was only Jim & Jean who brought Nancy to the airport and Gerald who brought me. I felt I was ready to go home, I just never new how I would react, although I do miss my friends in N.Z. the urge to return to my lovely unit in Mooloolaba on the Sunshine coast was strong, I do think it is maybe where your personal things are is where home is. Nancy has been away from N.Z. for over 15 years so Australia has to be her home now.
The trip home was pleasant, I talked to three people I new on the plane. We arrived early and were able to get an earlier bus back home, Nancy’s husband John came down from Bundaberg to pick her up and now I have settled in again, my brother Maurice and s.i.l. Shirley have been staying with me and have now moved on again so I guess I will just wait patiently for my hip operation so I can get on with my touring around this vast country and hopefully a return trip to Germany and France.
Till next time
Cheers
JIMBO

Travel. Overseas. The secrets of Machu Picchu

The Secrets of Machu Picchu.

Included in a most wonderful holiday in South America was a historical journey to Machu Picchu, the lost city of the Incas .The old city of Cuzco in Peru was my base with it’s amazing examples of stone work used in the foundations by the Incas. Over the centuries the city suffered many severe earthquakes and new cities were built onto the solid stone bases, which are set together as if manufactured by high tech. machinery. Modern day Cuzco is still using the original foundation for its cities hotels, shops, churches and office buildings. Situated at about 3,500 mts. above sea level breathing is difficult which makes you walk slowly.
I took an early morning train to view the wonders of Machu Picchu, through some very steep terrane climbing a further 2000 mts. into the Andes from the Urubamba Valley there were times when the inclines were so steep the train needed to zigzag back and forth to negotiate sharp bends. On arrival at the Ruins there was a short steep bus trip to the most fantastic city ruins I have ever seen. Machu Picchu was not discovered till 1911 and had been hidden from the world for over four centuries. It has been suggested that the city was built by hauling each carved block of approximately 30 tonnes each up from the valley below and placed together whith such perfection that there was little signs of joins, no mortar was used.
The ruined city is a wonderful setting for some great photography, houses set among the curves of the landscape, the remains of temples and farm buildings set among the backdrop of higher mountain peaks. A question that seem to be asked each tourist by the guides was your opinion as to how the stone slabs were brought up without the means of wheels, my suggestion was that maybe it was carried up as a powder, moulded into huge blocks with a type of cement, I don’t think this answer was the right one.
The sight of this wonder of the world will always remain with me as a place I have been so fortunate to visit and recommend anyone who is interested in history not to miss out on this wonderful experience, whether it be travelling by the luxury of a train or hiking along the old Inca Trail it is worth the effort, it is listed on top of my travels around the world.

Poetry The Eye of an Eagle

The Eye of an Eagle
Heh! Mum, I can see you oh so clear
Still wearing those old of jeans with a tear in the rear
Betcha don’t know your zoomed in my frame
Oh Hell! You’ve got that red hat on again
Thanks for the camera; I can have lots of fun
I feel like God, looking down on everyone.

Don’t worry about me, my feet are quite stable
I’m tied down with a very strong cable
I can see Uncle Ned sneaking home from the pub
And your nosey neighbours are off to the club
The Jones twins are playing a game of skittle
There’s Harry Mc Donald taking another wee tipple

Tim Clarke and Anne Smith, just back from a walk in the clover
Grass and straw on their clothes, maybe they fell over
Gee, there’s the Thomas kids peeping in Nels window
Wow! She should pull down the blind, boy what a show
They are far too young for a sight like that
Here comes someone, watch them scat

Hold on a minute, I’ll adjust my magic glass
I need to make a long distance pass
Well, bless my soul and my lovely zoom lens
Looks like the start of some dirty weekends
Judge Mackey is all packed ready to go away
M/s Brown has her case, “I thought he was Gay”

They both wear disguises, dark glasses and all
Hoping the local’s wont notice, they’ll have a ball
There’s goes the hamper, I bet full of grog
Two sets of trainers, don’t think they will jog
I guess I’m jealous, M/s Brown is quite nice
With her looks no wonder she picked the right vice

Now Boris, my trusty pet Eagle circles all around
His keen eyes always looking for prey to be found
Gracefully gliding through the forbidding skies
What a sight to be had from an old eagles eyes
He guides me through many new sights to explore
Then suddenly beckons me to my very own back door

With my matching lens to the eagles game
A robber has broken a large windowpane
With a powerful thrust Boris was gone
I followed his dive to the prey he was on
The thief gave a cry of pain to his head
As powerful talons inserted, blood started to spread

Hi there Mum, I called from my mobile phone
Ring the police and Ambulance to go to my home
My place is being robbed but don’t despair
Boris has given him quite a huge scare
Alas my battery has finally gone flat
I’ll sign off for now Mum, no more chitchat.

Radio Script. Nearly a Dirty Weekend

Nearly a Dirty Weekend
At Work

“ Heh! Stuart, How would you like to come away with me for a weekend?”
“ Did I hear right Pete? “; “ I thought you said for us to go away together?” “ I am happily married and maybe you are too?”
“ I thought that would get your attention, actually I won a luxury weekend away in a Villa among the hinterland and Marg can’t come as she is still with her sick mother up north,
“ What’s out there?”
“I believe there are lot’s of tramping tracks, a good swimming hole and the prize also includes some pampering like massages and relaxing meditation. The prize offer ends this weekend
“ Sounds great, Pete, I like the massage part?” “ I’ll talk it over with Joan tonight”
Next Day.
‘ I say Pete! about that weekend away, Joan said it would a good break for me to get away from doing chores and the kids, but made me promise, no hanky panky”
“ That’s great, we’ll get away after work on Friday, I’ll take my car, it shouldn’t be more than an hour and a half, maybe there will be time for a short walk before dark”
“ Sounds good to me, Pete, better fish out my sturdy sneakers, mustn’t forget the insect repellent, I’ll bring that bottle of rum Joan gave me at Christmas, maybe we’ll need a nightcap”
Friday Night.
“Sorry I’m a bit late, Stuart, forgot to organise someone to feed the cat and dog, anyway we are off now, see you Joan”
“ Bye Joan, promise no mischief”
At the Villa.
“ Looks a bit posh for us, Pete? we had better practice talking with a plum in our mouths”.
“ Don’t worry too much, they are probably very nice people, I’ll go and get the key to our room”
At the bedroom
‘ Gees! Pete, look at the furniture, a huge T.V. screen and a bar, I don’t think I’ll bother with a walk, we better check out the sleeping arrangements and bring our gear in”
“ Holey cow, there has be a mistake, Pete, only one huge bed?”
“ Hell, your right Stuart, can’t have that, I’ll go down and complain, I told the receptionist to expect two males to stay.”
Return to bedroom.
“ The girl down there laughed, and then apologised, she forgot to tell us to take off the bedspread and we’ll see two single beds, just pull them apart, give us a hand, Stu”.
“ Thank god for that, you had me worried for a minute”
“ That’s all done, now lets have a drink before going to the restaurant for dinner, I’m starving”
“ Cheers, Stuart, heres to a relaxing weekend free from any worries and strife”
“ Cheers, Pete, can’t wait for that complimentary massage”
Next morning, early.
“Come on Pete, don’t lie there all day, I can smell bacon and eggs”.
“I need to catch up some sleep after your bloody snoring half the night”.
“Joan never complains, I guess she doesn’t want to wake me because I may get amorous”.
“Don’t kid yourself”.
Morning walk
Just look at that scenery and the air is so pure, it should clear your lungs, and do you still miss your fags?”.
“Sure do, Pete, especially when someone lights up near me”.
“ Heh! Stu, take a look at that, will you! What a beaut. I’ve never seen such a crystal
clear Pool way out in the sticks before”.
“Bugger, why didn’t we bring our cosies, Pete”
“Gee, you’re a prude, whose going to see us, come on lets skinny dip”.
“ Hell, I hope my kids never hear about this, the water sure is refreshing, isn’t it?”.
“ Pete, do you see some flashes of colour behind those bushes/”.
“ Yeh, it looks like a couple of old girls spying on us, tell you what, don’t take any notice of them and after a while we’ll both come out of the water. I bet that will send them running”.
“What a laugh, you wouldn’t think those oldies could run so fast”.
“You mean, looking at you would be like a scene from the Rocky Horror show”.
Mid morning.
“ Boy, that was a good walk and swim, what say we find out about that massage”.
“ Okay, by me, you go, I need a shower”.
“Are you powdered up Stuart?, we have our pampering session in half an hour, just time for a shower to sweeten the old bod up a bit”.
The massage room. Two big muscle men, one says
“Okay chaps, strip off, lie on the beds and put a sheet over you”.
“Gee, I don’t think that’s a good idea”.
“Me neither, Pete”.
2nd guy.
“Come on. Don’t be such wooses you two, a good rub down will do wonders “.
An hour later.
“ I must say I was a bit nervous having those huge hands sliding across my butt”.
“Come on, you enjoyed it”.
That evening.
“ Well, Pete, we sure have had some new experiences, let’s knock the top of a few stubbies then go and enjoy another nice meal”.
Sunday morning
“ What a great nights sleep, must be all the fresh air”.
“ Don’t kid yourself Stu, you probably dreamed about those huge hands gliding over you”.
“ Oh, shut up, Pete, I saw the smile on your face”.
“ How about checking out that bowling green down the far corner after breaky”.
“Sure, why not, lets go eat”>
The bowling green
“That’s not bowls, it looks like croquet, hell there are those two old tarts, hell, and they are calling us over”.
Old tarts.
“Did you enjoy your swim yesterday?, would you like a game of crochet, we can teach you if you like”.
“ Come on Stu, we’ve got nothing to loose, might be fun”.
“ They keep staring at us, Pete, wonder what they’re thinking”?.
“ That bigger one fancies you Stu, watch how she flutters her eye lashes”.
“ Bugger that, I’m off, maybe it is time for us to pack up and leave”.
On the way home.
“That was a real change, don’t you think, Pete. Maybe we should tone it down a little for the girls”.
“ Hell no, if we tell them the truth they will never believe that two middle aged fellows enjoyed a game of croquet with some old dears”.
‘ I think we could tone down the massage a bit, anyway I really enjoy the weekend, didn’t you”.
“ Sure did”

Word Count.1102.







‘
.

Radio Script. One Through the Hoop

One through the Hoop
Opening scene.
Social committee meeting, group discussion on the entertainment side of the club. Those present were… Jim, Roy, Colin, Ted, Paddy, Elaine, Ivy, Joan, Marg and Sally.
Chairman, first meeting.
Ted
Now that our club has been going for nearly twelve months I think it is about time we also had a social side to enjoy. I would like you all to think of ways that would include all the members and not cost a lot of money.
Elaine
I would like to suggest we hold a Saturday night dance in the Waitoa hall. I’m sure if we booked them early enough the Satellites Band would play for us.
Jim
Don’t you think that it would be risky as Te Aroha has a dance every Saturday night?
Elaine
I’m sure all the basketball players would support us. Maybe we could add some extra entertainment, we could ask around if anyone can play country and western music as a recital, or perhaps persuade Rickey Manson to perform some of his magic acts plus do some of his hypnotic performances.
Marg.
That sounds pretty exciting; let’s have some time out to think about different things to make our dance attractive
Ted
Good idea, this meeting was to get ideas and it looks like everyone is getting excited, we need to meet again as soon as possible if we decide on a dance so the band can be booked. Lets make it next week.
Another Meeting.
Ted
Well, everyone seems to be full of enthusiasm, where do we start? Roy, you seem to be excited, what are some of your suggestions?
Roy
I have been talking with some of the chaps in the Te Aroha Brass Band, they have been practicing a novel display of jazz music set to an action routine, looks good and they are willing to perform for us free to get up some confidence, also I have spoken to Rickey Manson, he is also very keen to perform for us without cost to help get our social club going.
Ted
That’s amazing, what luck, anyone else got any more good news?
Marg
Sally and I have talked to the Satellites singer Ivor Fisher and he said he was interested in learning how to play basketball and would be happy for us to hire his band at a much-reduced rate.
Ted
Everything seems to be falling together, now we had better set a date and start booking the hall, band and items, I can do the hall, let’s get all this information down with our secretary Ivy,
Much discussion, suggestions and allotted jobs.
Ted.
Okay everybody, we seem to have covered most of the important things, let’s see?? We have the bookings covered, Jim and Elaine to organise the decorations, Ivy, Joan and Sally to do up a list of what we should have for supper, Colin will help everyone and Paddy will be our M.C. for the night. Now what about applying for a permit to sell beer and spirits.?
The morning of the dance.
Jim.
Are you ready Elaine? Sorry I’m late, at least the ferns will be dry now after the rain.
Elaine.
Won’t be a minute, I will bring some old covers to protect the car, want a cuppa?
Jim.
No thanks, it’s late, better put on your gummies, it will be sloppy in the bush, the broom will be flowering now so that will give us a nice yellow colour contrast for the stage.
In the bush.
Jim
Have you ever heard about the ghost story here on Curtains Hill?
Elaine.
I don’t believe in ghosts, do you? Anyway what is it?
Jim.
No, me neither, this story is pretty convincing with the locals around the hill. A five year old girl disappeared about fifty years ago, went wandering into the bush and after a extensive search she was never found, disappeared without trace, some people reckon they have heard her some nights crying out Help! Help! I want my mummy!
Elaine
That’s a lot of rubbish; don’t expect me to believe any of your stories.
Jim.
Okay, don’t say I never warned you .Ha! Ha!
While gathering fern fronds there is the sound of someone crying
Elaine
Did you hear anything? Sounds like someone crying, must be other people in the bush?
Jim.
What have I just finished telling you? It’s the ghost of that girl. Better watch out, she may be looking for revenge.
More crying
Elaine drops the ferns and ran as fast as she could to the road
Jim
Heh! Come back here, thought you never believed in ghosts? How am I going to carry all these ferns?
Elaine (from a distance)
Get your own dam decorations, I’m off.
Jim. (Now by himself)
Sally and Marg, you can come out of hiding now! Elaine has taken off like a rocket, and I think our joke worked.
No answer!!
Back at the Hall
Jim.
So, there you are Sally, why didn’t you answer me in the bush, I needed some help with the ferns seeing Elaine ran off in a hurry.
Sally.
Marg and I never made it to the bush, some of our cakes were a disaster so we had to make some more.
Jim
Gees, wonder who was in the bush? If it was what I’m thinking, bugger the rest of the ferns.
The Dance.
Ted.
What do you reckon on those two girls that have just arrived, are they the one’s who go to the Saturday night dances in Te Aroha?, everyone says they are pretty course.
Jim
Looks like them, hope the Barbarich brothers don’t arrive, they are real trouble, just as well we have some pretty large club members that can handle fights, I think it was a good idea not to apply for a liquor license for our first dance.
Ted.
Bloody hell, talk of the devils, here are two of them, I’ll have a talk with them. First sign of trouble and they will be out.
Jim.
You’re brave, but don’t worry we will be all watching for any disturbance.
During the dance
Roy
The evening looks like it will be a great success, I have worked out our expenditures and looks like we should make a nice little profit from door sales, and hopefully the raffles will sell.
Jim
That’s a relief; at least we won’t have used any money from subscriptions.
Paddy.
There seems to be a lot of noise coming from outside the hall? Better go and check it out.
Ted
I’ll come with you, will you keep an eye on things here Colin, tell Jim to come outside when he gets back from the loo.
Colin.
Sure thing, I’ll tell a funny or two when the band stops.
Outside the Hall, a small gathering standing around.
Ted
What’s all the noise here?
Jim, running to meet Ted & Colin
Bloody Hell! There’s been an accident, I came out a while ago to check a disturbance, a car was taking off in a hurry, it looks like one of those girls we had discussed earlier is lying near the drain, there’s blood everywhere, I ran home to my home and rang the police and ambulance, they should be here in about ten minutes.
A small crowd is forming
Ted.
Okay folks, stand back a bit, we don’t want to disturb any evidence for the police.
Paddy.
I had better get back inside and try to keep everyone from coming outside. I just heard one of Colin’s stories, a bit rude I thought!
Police arrive at the scene; take photos, cordon off the scene and search for clues. The local doctor arrived and he didn’t take him very long to pronounce her dead. The body had stab wounds near her throat; a huge area of her scull was just one bloody mess. They decide to question everyone in the hall on completing their examinations and sending the body away.
Paddy. Back in the hall
Attention everyone, there has been a horrible accident outside, a girl has been attacked and badly bashed, the police wants to speak to everyone in the hall, just gather around and wait your turn to go and see them in the supper room.
Ted.
This is bad for our club, and the evening was going along so smoothly. Hope they get it over fast so we can get on with the evening.
Jim.
Well, they seem to be doing a good job; I guess their experience and knowledge of dealing with people are far better than we could do.
Nearly half of the people in the hall had been questioned when the chief of police came out and made a statement.
Police Chief.
Attention, everybody, thank you for your patience, we don’t need to hold up your dance any longer, we have arrested a suspect back in Te Aroha who is helping us with our enquiries and it is certain we will not be looking for anyone else.
Ted
Struth, that was swift, wonder who they have?
Jim
I never saw them with anyone outside, the two Barbarich brothers have returned and are in the hall. Guess we will have to wait till the police tell us.
Roy
I have a feeling the oldest brother Ben was hanging around but never came into the hall. There were some fights at last Saturday’s night dance at Te Aroha but nothing was proven that connected to any of the brothers.
The dance continued, a huge success even though there was a sad tragedy
The next committee meeting of the social club a week later
Ted.
I suppose you have all read the local paper about the trouble we had at our first dance, I have received a letter from the Te Aroha chief of police confirming what the paper printed. Ben Barbarich has been formally charged with Mary Foster’s murder, they say this will make headlines around the country being the first real crime ever in our small community. They state that Mary had stolen Ben’s stash of marijuana
Jim
The newspaper said Barbarich was waiting in his car, his brothers were in the dance hall, Mary came out to talk to him, she took his stash and ran off, he caught up with her and assaulted her, knowing his violent nature he just didn’t stop till he killed her. What a waste of a young life. He then drove off in a hurry.
Elaine.
I know Mary was not a very nice lady but I would like us all to attend her funeral which is next Saturday, It’s about time the Barbariches were all escorted out of town, they have been causing trouble for years.
Roy
Maybe we should invite them to play indoor basketball, they should be excellent for defence!!
Meeting closed; hopefully the sporting club can continue an enjoyable social life for all the players.
Footnote…
Indoor basketball was very popular for many years in Waitoa, when rugby became the main attraction the clubs soon disappeared, it is great to see the sport is coming back to popularity again. I certainly enjoyed the years I played the game and made some very good lifetime friends, what a bonus for a small town with very little other entertainment for the younger generations.

Word Count 1,888

Poem. The Eye of an Eagle

The Eye of an Eagle
Heh! Mum, I can see you oh so clear
Still wearing those old of jeans with a tear in the rear
Betcha don’t know your zoomed in my frame
Oh Hell! You’ve got that red hat on again
Thanks for the camera; I can have lots of fun
I feel like God, looking down on everyone.

Don’t worry about me, my feet are quite stable
I’m tied down with a very strong cable
I can see Uncle Ned sneaking home from the pub
And your nosey neighbours are off to the club
The Jones twins are playing a game of skittle
There’s Harry Mc Donald taking another wee tipple

Tim Clarke and Anne Smith, just back from a walk in the clover
Grass and straw on their clothes, maybe they fell over
Gee, there’s the Thomas kids peeping in Nels window
Wow! She should pull down the blind, boy what a show
They are far too young for a sight like that
Here comes someone, watch them scat

Hold on a minute, I’ll adjust my magic glass
I need to make a long distance pass
Well, bless my soul and my lovely zoom lens
Looks like the start of some dirty weekends
Judge Mackey is all packed ready to go away
M/s Brown has her case, “I thought he was Gay”

They both wear disguises, dark glasses and all
Hoping the local’s wont notice, they’ll have a ball
There’s goes the hamper, I bet full of grog
Two sets of trainers, don’t think they will jog
I guess I’m jealous, M/s Brown is quite nice
With her looks no wonder she picked the right vice

Now Boris, my trusty pet Eagle circles all around
His keen eyes always looking for prey to be found
Gracefully gliding through the forbidding skies
What a sight to be had from an old eagles eyes
He guides me through many new sights to explore
Then suddenly beckons me to my very own back door

With my matching lens to the eagles game
A robber has broken a large windowpane
With a powerful thrust Boris was gone
I followed his dive to the prey he was on
The thief gave a cry of pain to his head
As powerful talons inserted, blood started to spread

Hi there Mum, I called from my mobile phone
Ring the police and Ambulance to go to my home
My place is being robbed but don’t despair
Boris has given him quite a huge scare
Alas my battery has finally gone flat
I’ll sign off for now Mum, no more chitchat.

Poem. Hillary

Hilary.
Eighty young years has come at last
No wonder walking isn’t as fast
With shining eyes and a very alert brain
Plus a memory that shows not even a strain

Your hair may be lovely and shining white
Which matches your smile, which is always bright
We love your stories of travel abroad
Those around Australia is our reward

Thanks Hilary for being our friend
Best wishes and health we want to send
Enjoy your day plus lots to come
Eight decades on, your still lots of fun

Happy Birthday, Hilary.
See you next term,
Our writers Class

Poem. When Summer is Over.

When Summer is Over.
The beautiful Sunshine Coast.
------------------------------------

Those lazy weekends on the beach.
Reminds me of what summers preach
Hot sands that burn my feet.
And tepid waters to relieve the heat

Barbies are our way of course.
Snags, onions and tomato sauce.
Good for all the family fun.
Plus playing cricket in the sun.

The freedom of stress brings nice relief.
Problems solved, a chance to debrief.
Squawking gulls are all around.
Shattering the peace with a very loud sound.

A walk along the waters edge.
With breaking waves I make a pledge.
Clears the head and calms the nerves.
And soothes in what it surely serves.

With deep breathing I take in air.
It’s really something to declare.
Evenings here are family fun.
Volleyball and cricket for a run.

Laughter fills the cool night sky.
So nice to hear, no time to cry.
Happiness instead of hate.
Makes for a better state.

With all the fighting and grief around.
Shootings, and assaults are often found.
To view the bonding in family style.
We can forget sadness for a while.

Now summer is over, cooler days.
Life goes into a winter haze.
Our coast has very little cold.
We are so lucky, I’m often told.

Autumn colours are very few.
The trees don’t shed their leaves on cue.
The brilliance of climate, tourists come
To escape the cold, make this their home

We like to share this winter style.
Of sun and warmth to make them smile.
They relax, enjoy this lovely place.
With friends and scenery to embrace.

When a change is needed from sea and sand
It’s off to explore the hinterland.
With rolling hills and peaceful towns
Crafts, produce and bushland sounds

So my friends, keep us in mind.
When sun and sea is to unwind.
We love to share this paradise.
And hope you enjoy our special prize.

When winter is gone, the rains will come.
Peace will return, the tourists done.
The beauty of the coast still remains.
For us to enjoy, just the same.

Poem. The Life of Me.

The Life of Me.

1.
My young life had not been fine
Father died, I was barely nine
Mother got her kicks from drink
Never caring much for me, I think

2
My sister and brother were taken away
That left me, I had to stay
Life with Mum was an endurance to survive
From camping grounds and shacks, it was hard to thrive

3
Finally a state house was found, no liquor allowed
But Mum found a way, I was never proud
The time had come for me to be taken
Foster care, the last choice, I was shaken

4
A mountain of carers for me to endure
At last a home with Jim and Bernice, left me unsure
Their genuine love was suspicious to start
Not knowing kindness and help on my part

5
My first job, a factory clothes to make
Money for me, independence an intake
Still not trusting my fosters from any other
Waiting the day my security they would smother

6
I would run away, Jim would always comb
When found, he would always bring me home
Home, a lovely word, could this be right?
Slowly realising what I received was bright

7
I hadn’t given credit to these folk who cared
At last my life changed, was I prepared
Bernice’s continuously guiding and trying to mould
My future to become a person, proud and bold

8
The next big change was helping the sick
Becoming a Nurse’s aid was a great pick
Soon it was time to look after myself
Find a flat, set up house with some background help

9
There was always guidance, my fosters never missed
Not too busy to help, there to assist
Love arrived next, and then marriage had come
To Phillip, the father of my daughter and son

10
My own mother was sick and needed home care
I nursed her till the end, no love she would share
The next sadness was the suddenness of Bernice dying
This shock was never controlled by crying

11
Jim took over, with protection and advice
Helping me through bad times, once or twice
Another shock, my marriage fell apart
Again a huge burden on my ever-aching heart

12
Life carried on, with goals to be made
My family to guide, but the hurt wouldn’t fade
The years rolled by, my children would go soon
To be left alone again, not a happy tune

13
Along came Gary, new love on the scene
Happiness again, like a wonderful dream
We moved to a nice home, great gardens galore
My job at oldies home was a real chore

14
Jim’s move to Australia, quite a big blow
But a holiday there, he was happy, it did show
Another move for us to the seaside we went
A new home, nice beach, we were really content

15
The years have gone by, a neat job I have found
Caring for the sick and old in their homes, great all-round
With my family now just a phone call away
And Jim is the same, also email at bay

16
For me, summers are great, relaxed on the sand
Gary happy with golf plus a beer in his hand
Not much more is needed to fill my life
The past has gone, no more room left for strife.

556 words

Poem. The Big Seven O.

The big Seven-Oh.

I used to think three score and ten meant one foot in the grave.
That if I even reached that age I’d have to be brave.
And face the daunting task of reconciling long held fears.
Isn’t that what every person does when in advancing years.?
Now I am there at last, I’ve finally reached the seven-oh.
And realised that every day there’s somewhere else to go.
Not for me the telly and the well upholstered chair.
I am meeting lots of people as I go from here to there.
My life is full of meaning and learning lots that’s new.
If you’ve got time to listen I will tell you of a few.
I’m learning ballroom dancing and I’m loving every minute.
So happy since the day I said I’d go there and be in it.
The French I learned when just a boy had since then been neglected.
But thanks to U3A another interest resurrected.
I go along to lessons and I learn to “ parlez-vous.”
It’s inspiring finding out so many things that I can do.
Sunshine 60’s taught me to improve the way I cook.
I was first a little wary till I went and had a look.
It was really worth the effort and I made a lot of friends.
The opportunity for happiness, it seems just never ends.
My early morning aquacise is good to start the day.
It’s never too exhausting and helps me on my way.
To eating hearty breakfasts and to make me look ahead.
It’s much more fun than simply lying snoring in my bed.
I’ve taken lessons recently, in learning how to jive.
So since I reached the seven-oh I’ve really come alive.
I now ignore the stereotype that some think I should be.
I’m so glad I’m still a person who’s enjoying being me.

(A member of the over 60’s club on the Sunshine Coast wrote this poem.
I hope that everyone turning 70 can keep up with it)

Poem. The Andes Crossing

The Andes Crossing
It was just after dawn
Tourists waiting, most foreign born
The Cuzco express was again late
All were anxious to start this scenic great
Crossing the countryside that the Andes did frame
A dangerous place, many bandits remain

The train arrived, special carriage attached
Sellers joined us to see beauty unlatched
Three hours later, with the Andes as backdrop
Then a sudden jolt, the train made a stop
Confusion ruled, soldiers and guards did shout
Sellers took cover, our safety in doubt

The bandits had been here
A bridge no longer I fear
Our train can’t go on, with frightening sensations
Silence took over the folk of all nations
Too scared to talk, maybe this was the end
The sellers were cautious, approached us as a friend.

A meal cooked in the galley was served, hot and neat
The chef tried to ease fear with his many a tasty treat
With beer and wine the bar did provide
I could see frightened faces, drinks couldn’t hide
Hoping the soldiers could protect our train
But I think they were scared too, you could see the strain.

It was late in the day, night would be soon
The bridge repair folk arrived, changing our gloom
To make a Bailey bridge and set up new rails
Quietness was scary, but selling never fails
Offloading their trinkets for special prices
A relief to barter and forget the crisis.

An idea I thought would help ease some wrongs
Suggesting a party, have drinks, and sing songs
At first no one moved, then a guitar appears
Some joined in singing, lubricated by some beers
Russians did a dance, Americans, a patriotic song
The group from Europe, their selection was strong

Now Greeks shared their Ouzo, songs from their hits
Kiwis the Haka, had the group in fits
Next Australians with ballads in top voice
Time soon passed, with quite a loud noise
The bandits should be scared, maybe take to the hills
These strange sounds, enough to cause chills

Darkness made for mysterious shocks
Not knowing what lurked behind bushes and rocks
Another meal made, free drinks all around
The service was great, no fault found
Singing and stories continued to stay
Anything to keep our worries at bay

Cheers rang out, the repairs were complete
The train slowly moves, a new bridge to meet
A charge of glasses as we gathered speed
We were on our way, with the sellers a tough breed
They faithfully stayed, hoping for more sales
A harsh way to live, with risks it entails

Now the setting had changed, new friends had been made
A mix of folk became one, not to fade
The bond between nations, it was a close shave
We’re not really different, when it’s time to be brave
Now we can enjoy the trip of pure gold
Stronger people with a story to be told
Count 482

Poem. Prost

Prost.
“Prost”, is a word I use each day
When my sister I ring at five to say
We discuss our thoughts , good and badness
And share some humour and maybe sadness
Communication is special and will always be
As it has for years from across the sea
A glass of wine to share our life
Takes away the thoughts of many a strife

Poem. My Bro.

MY BRO.
1
The flight was tiring and very long.
I wish it would end real soon.
As time is short, the reason wrong.
My thoughts are full of gloom.
2
The hour was late, trip complete.
A journey I dreaded to make.
Nephew Bryan was there to greet.
With sad news, so hard to take.
3
The hospital room, shabby and old.
With Bro. Lying still, breathing not clear.
I hold his hand, sweaty but cold.
A slight squeeze, he new I was there.
4
I just had a day, the family a week.
This precious time was all he gave.
His heart still pumping, but unable to speak.
It was so hard and to appear brave.

5
Time had arrived, he’s had enough.
Slowly Bro’s body was closing down.
In readiness for his journey above.
The long road he has found.
6
Gradually with little fuss but grace.
He gave a deep sigh and decided to go.
A peaceful look crossed his face.
The finality, a terrible blow.
7
An emptiness filled the room.
A feeling of disbelief for family around.
All knowing it had to come soon
Bro. Left life behind without a sound.
8
The next few days were hard to fend.
Arrangements to be made, the chapel acquired.
Son Bryan had a coffin, made by a friend,
To be used by whoever desired.


9
Bro had tried it, nice for size.
A family joke, but now so real.
Not knowing he would win the prize.
He won’t think it a very good deal.
10
The crematorium was the place.
Heavily booked, it would be five days.
To say farewell was hard to face.
With extra time, was like a haze.
11
A drive through Swan Valley, lunch German style.
A toast to Bro. in great lager beer.
Remembering him and his ever smile.
His humour, we wished him good cheer.
12
Eldest son Michael had just bought a home.
So off we go to check it out.
Happy and content, hope he’s not alone.
Love is what it’s all about.


13.
At last bro. was put to rest.
With farewells and touching speeches.
A favourite song was just the best.
With sea and fish and lovely beaches.
14.
Daughter Step. and Dan have three sons.
Each said a goodbye speech to their grand dad.
Proud but brave, they were the ones.
Who spoke up strong, though very sad.
15.
Now bro. has left us sad and empty.
Life needs to go on, living and yet.
Memories of him are plenty.
Goodbye from us, we wont forget.

Poem. Memories are Golden

Memories are Golden
A whole year has passed since that terrible day
The time had come when he was taken away
With only one brother it was a huge blow
Why did he really have to go?

Bro had lots of illness to bare
Never once did he ask me to share
He just carried on with a cheerful smile
Just like our mum, it was his style

The last twelve months have gone really fast
But sadness and memories will always last
I still wait for the telephone to ring
To have a chat was a regular thing

Now there is emptiness where life had been real
It’s hard to except the pain I still feel
Knowing he’s at rest in a wonderful place
I’ll remember the goodbye look on his face

As time moves on, quotes pop in my head
Bro would remember our past, many things we had said
These are valued treasures I want to hold
Maybe lots more that had never been told

The years will go by until it’s my time to leave
To the wonderful meeting place with family we’ll achieve
With mother, father, grandparents all there
To celebrate unity with my bro I will share



Words. 205

Poem. Lt. Brown with a touch of Grey

Light Brown with a touch of Grey.
Fifty years of work have passed
Retirement has come at last.
Gradual changes to this new life
Time to enjoy with far less strife

Slowly my hair is turning grey
Something I dreaded since a younger day
It mostly fell out at an early age
Not much left to turn at this stage

Sleeping all night was something I knew
It’s broken now with trips to the loo
Mirrors tell lies, I’m sure of that
What used to be muscle is turning to fat

Time to get fit and keep this smile
The old bones need work to stay mobile
Lot’s of walking and cycling with no pain
Less work on a diet is my gain

Great to enjoy good food and wine
With no weight worries all the time
A new hip means mobility in the joint
This means happiness up to a point

I still dream of my agile youth
Now I just try and tell the truth
It’s not the same but I really don’t care
Great memories are many and here to share

Learning to write stories, poems and plays
Has been great for my brain in many ways
A volunteer job at the tourist centre
Helping visitors when they choose to enter

My long distant travel I loved maybe over
I’ve always enjoyed the life of a rover
Finances are low, perhaps I can say
Maybe some left for this country to stray

Trains are my first love to travel afar
Also enjoy exploring by car
Planes are swift in this vast continent
Boats not my choice for this old gent

Now I have past three score and ten
Wouldn’t change a thing, I’d do the same again
The memories of my life always brings out a smile
Now there is time to ponder for a while

Poem. Five decades, Plus

Five Decades Plus.

1
A friendship so valued from back in our teens
Elaine and I from a small town it seems
With our special group there was the Saturday night dance
We would never miss and would do our prance.

2
The only way there was a local bus
Going home a long walk, no problem to us
Sundays our lot would climb the mountain
Or maybe a walk through the lovely domain.

3
A secret language we compiled with skill
To talk back the front was our special drill
People would think that we were quite mad
But this was something that they never had.

4
Indoor basketball was held in the village hall
All us young folk just had a great ball
There were dances and trips to many other clubs
With competition games, there were no snubs.

5
Along came Alan, he charmed Elaine, she was the one
They married and moved away, our group was undone
Although it was hard we still kept in touch
Christmas and birthdays, special times as such.

6
With a friend we spent New Year in their home
Proud Elaine served a lovely ham on the bone
Alas with no fridge, the blowflies had sprayed
They did have a safe, but still the flies did their raid.

7
A card with a smiling pig I found
I added my thoughts of maggoty ham on the background
This card has travelled back and forth each year
For close to fifty it has brought much good cheer.

8
Now too fragile it has pride and place
With their daughter Annette it has been encased
A wonderful way to keep friendship alive
A pig story I have written, its memory will thrive.

9
Elaine has her collection of pigs about
All sizes and shapes inside and out
There’s a memory of those great early years
Which represents laughter and lots of good cheers

10
As time had passed I married Bernice and shared
Our usual family stresses but somehow we cared
Helped solve problems, some laughs, some sorrowed
Personalities of children, which can’t be borrowed.

11
We soon became grandparents with lots of pride
Sadly Bernice became ill, and soon died
Somehow our friendship grew, we watched our health
Memories are worth much more than wealth.

12
Elaine’s thimble collection, a pleasure for sure
I’ve added a few from many an overseas tour
Crystal or pewter, all shapes, styles a gem
Beautiful to admire, in display frames made for them

13
Now I’ve moved overseas with family I share
Our bond being old friends will always be there
Being senior citizens now with memories to match
Lots of great stories still hard to dispatch.

14
With wonders of phone and email alike shared
Help shorten the distance we’re not really cared
We just pray to God that there’s still lots of time
To enjoy our friendship while we’re still in our prime

Word Count 489

Poem. Dream On

“”Dream On.”
Last night I had a beautiful dream
Of majestic Greek Pillars, a wonderful scene
There was a huge room of the purest of white
Peace and seclusion, a wonderful sight

The floors were of marble, of intricate design
Polished to perfection with a sparkling shine
Arches surrounded the elegant room
Their fancy décor like an ancient tomb

Lighting was natural, through slits in the walls
A massive Dome where daylight falls
An eerie feeling with reflections dancing
Sunbeams intruding are forever enhancing

This lovely scene was shattered real fast
As a huge metal shape arrived in a blast
Silence is broken, peace came unstuck
Smells of jet fuel, luggage plus a truck

The sight of a Jumbo Jet should not be
Mixed in my dream, ghastly to see
Relieved as I woke, the plane was not there
To spoil the beauty I still hoped was here

It’s hard to remember many parts of a dream
That flash past so quick, just like a jet stream
So nice to awake when special one’s stay
Great way to start another pleasant day

Word Count 182

Poem . Drama on Wheels

Drama on Wheels. (original)

1
Time had come, just eight years from a century.
Dear mother decided she needed help.
A lovely retirement home was found.
For her to enjoy her future days.

2
With aging pains and crippling joints.
Caring folk made her days easier.
Knitting had long gone, but now it was back.
With help and persuasion her fingers worked again.

3
Walking was hard but she never complained.
With a smile and a greet that would melt your heart.
But time had been cruel and soon it had to come.
That a wheelchair was to be her only means of travel.

4
My visits were frequent to enjoy this dear lady.
Her bravery in achieving the simple things in life.
The pain never showed, she disguised it well.
Her brain alert always ready for a joke.

5
Life carried on, she never complained.
The staff adored her jokes and smiles.
A hearing aid helped for what she was missing.
And the brain as sharp as it always was.

6
Now with her modern wheelchair.
I could take her out to enjoy the sun.
We even went to town to visit shops.
Plus meet lots of her old friends.

7
One day after heavy rain.
A new path had been laid.
The lawn resewn and very soft.
Spring was everywhere to enjoy.

8
Mother remarked on a tree in full bloom.
My guard was down for a split second.
The wheel of the chair sunk into soft soil.
It collapsed and mother was thrown in a drain.

9
With horror and panic I checked her for damage.
She said “ okay” but had pain in her leg.
Two cars stopped, folk asked if I needed help.
We soon had her back in her chair.

10
Slowly returning to the home they checked her over.
To make sure an ambulance was called.
She needed an x-ray to be sure.
Maybe I was the one that needed care.

11
A journey to the next town and it was soon found.
Her leg was fractured, we were hospital bound.
The ambulance soon had here there
A cast was set to ease the pain.

12
Guilt was with me all the time.
Saying sorry to mother just brought a smile.
It was an accident Jim. no one to blame.
Hard to accept but will time heal.

13
On return to the retirement home.
The staff made it quite a joke.
By hiding all the wheelchairs from me.
I knew mother had organised this.

14

Now mother has gone to her eternal rest.
Her memories and love were something special.
Forgive and forget was the way she was.
We all miss her very much.

Poem. Cofusion Rules

Confusion Rules
The twins had reach their sixteen years
Lives were different, with many fears
Confusion was high, their bodies changing
Even their minds were re-arranging
Parents always wrong, teachers worse
Learning was hard, something to curse

Loud music was in, and everyone’s pain
Sloppy clothes were also very little gain
Body changing hard to take
Junk food was on the make
Rejection of schooling, no need to learn
With thoughts changing daily, energy to burn

More thoughts now for sexual desires
Girls and more girls, attractions inspires
Staying out late, every night of the week
Hard to wake, more sleep to seek
If only they would discuss their ongoing feeling
This would surely be more appealing

Hopefully this crisis of teenager rebels
Will pass so we can enjoy well-earned spells
The pattern of youth has never changed
Nothing that we can re-arrange
Just go along with the flow
And hope it settles, but not too slow

We all went through this part of growing
Maybe this generation had more distractions showing
We must feel for them, they live in a fast lane
How does the body adjust, also the brain
With many distractions all over town
No wonder their lives are so upside down

Word Count 205

Poem. a Funny Limerick

A Funny Limerick

My love of dancing….


When I was young and in my prime

I’d be dancing all the time

With Elvis, the Beatles and Buddy Holley

Good for toe tapping really makes you jolly

It’s my style of music and is still going fine


The years rolled by and when there was a chance

I’d be off to enjoy a good country-dance

Although mid-age with less time to spare

I managed to sneak off to a gig somewhere

Never forgetting many a tricky prance


Now the twilight years have finally arrived

My love of dancing has surely survived

With fitness good and twinkle toes still there

Now only socials and parties to practise my ware

Somehow my love of dancing has thrived.









Word count 124

A limerick is a poem that rhymes on 1,2 and 5 lines
Also rhymes on 3 and 4 lines

Poem. Gypsey's of Prague

Gypsys of Prague
The sun is gone, darkness is near.
Another workday is finished here.
Commuters rush for the underground rails.
I join the crowds before it fails.
Tourists anxious for their destinations.
But trains stop at all the stations.
Watch out! They’re here, a feeling felt.
My hands surround my money belt.
Three young men close in on me.
No eye contact, nothing to see.
Arms are gently and strongly gripped.
Fear surrounds me, my guard has slipped.
Another station, they were gone.
I felt my belt, something’s wrong.
With trembling hands with unzipped thought.
No money, no cards, I have been caught.
I have been robbed, I soon proclaimed.
Just blank stares was all I gained.
The card was cancelled, money missed.
Underground travels off my list.
When Prague I go again one day.
My money will be safe in another way.

Poem. Lucky Dip

Lucky Dip.
To win a lottery is my secret dream.
Being very generous and never mean.
I would share my wealth among my friends
And spoil myself with many trends.
A lovely home that has sea views.
Of modern structure I would choose.
White Mercs. have been my goal.
With all the extras, good for the soul.
Jumbo Jets will be my home.
As long as I choose to roam.
North, South, East, West.
Don’t know which is best.
Sunday morning once again.
Sadly my numbers never came.
Alas it’s back to dreams once more.
Good health is worth more than a score.
I’ll keep taking tickets just in case.
My winning numbers may hit base.
Till then, I’ll carry on my tension.
Carefully counting days till pension.
Jim Fitzthum.
1/23 Pangarinda Place.
Mooloolaba, S. C. 4557
Ph. (07) 54775507 or 0421711357

Travel.O.seas. My Experiences in Czech. Republic

My Experiences in Chech. Republic

My travels started in 1978, the first time out of New Zealand which included a month in England and another month travelling around Europe with a Euro rail pass which even then was a great way to get around, no hassles buying tickets, Bed & Breakfasts ( Pensions) were very cheap and mostly central.
Included in my European trip I decided to explore Czechoslovakia to try and find out more about my ancestors who came to New Zealand in 1863. There had not been many of my family return to find our routes. An uncle of mine, Max Becker and some of his family had been there just before me so I new that it would not be an easy achievement with Czechoslovakia still Communist ruling. Being a bit of an adventurer I decided to take the chance, after all these people were the same nationality as me.
Most important I had my special visa to enter the country and a small amount of Czech. Money I took a train from Germany and entered the border town of Furth im Wald and with my visa checked I was soon experiencing a very rough train trip to Plzen, a lack of maintenance of the rail tracks was just one of the many problems I was to encounter. Arriving in Plzen just after dark I thought I could book accommodation from the station, not likely so I walked the dimly lit streets towards the main centre of the city, with the help of a local I was guided to an old crumbling Hotel called Slovan which he promised would be okay. Inside was magnificent with brightly coloured ceilings and lots of beautiful paintings.
Next morning I took a local bus to the village of Stod ( or Stabb ) as it was called last century, this was the area where my family came from . there were many old cottages lining the cobbled streets, a few uninteresting shops and no one spoke English, maybe they were frightened to , I now wish I had taken German lessons then instead of years later like I did. I found the Catholic Church of St. Peter & Paul which was in need of repair badly, it was locked, unusual for a church. After locating the Priest who did speak English I was able to explore the inside, there was a beautiful Alter and lovely marble statues with lots of gold fancywork. There was not much he was able to tell me about my family as he was from another part of the country but he did suggest I take a walk to the cemetery , I did this and also found the man who looks after it and with sign language, ( I was getting good at this ) he showed me the plan of the graves and names but I only found some Rauner and Bayer , no Fitzthum’s
I did have a contact, a music teacher called Josef Janousek who unfolded to me the sadness of the village people, as they were controlled by the communists they were probably too frightened to make contact. Josef came back to Plzen with me where he had a lovely meal and nice wine, we discussed further the plight of the Chech people and how their lives were lived under strict ruling.
This being my first time away from N.Z. I decided this wasn’t the country for me and made arrangements to get out and back to Germany. So much for me expecting to discover long lost family but this was not to be at this stage. Even on leaving the country I had to spend every bit of my Chech. money, even down to buying matches to get rid of it.
Continuing my journey through Switzerland and Italy I had an amazing experience on a train to Rome, there was a man and his wife in the compartment I was in, the lady asked me where I was from, she spoke good English, great. She wanted to know where I had been and I explained how I was not very happy with my trip to the country of my ancestors, to my amazement she informed me that she came from near to the village of Stod and how her mother had taken her to Germany only to be caught up with W.W. 2, her family name was Karl, a familiar name back home, she recalled how her grandfather used to talk about family migrating to N.Z, I did manage to get her contacts with lots of Karl’s when I returned home, I did keep in touch with Gertrude and Walter Jung, corresponding for many years and was able to spend time with Gertrude on both her visits to N.Z.. Sadly they have both died now but I will never forget how I first met them.
Having discovered a family of Fitzthum’s in Kassel, Germany and writing to them I was amazed to find out they had originally came from the same area around Stod but had also left for Germany pre-war. My first visit was in 1997. There was Franz & Margrit and their daughter Petra whom I stayed with, I also met Franz’s brother Anton and his wife Margarethe. What wonderful people, their hospitality had no end and I was showered with gifts , my stay was far too short but I still had quite an amount of travel to go.
I made my way back to Frankfurt and caught a plane to Prague, the city I had longed to see having missed out on my first visit to . Now of course it is a free country made up partly Chech. Republic and Slovac states, Prague is franticly trying to catch up with the western world, it has a new-sophisticated Airport and the latest in communication systems in the world. Luckily it has been almost untouched by the horrors of wars so it is still rich in artistic and historical beauty, the older part of the city has a very picturesque town square with a wonderful old astronomical clock and the huge gothic church of our Lady. There is also the romantic Charles Bridge with it’s many artists and stalls selling jewellery and craft. , and the old Royal Palace and the St.Vitus Cathedral ( the 7th largest in the world ) which has some very beautiful stained glass windows. Equally full of history is the ancient Jewish quarters. It surely must be the most beautiful city in the world and I have waited all this time to visit. While in Prague I just had enough time to take a bus trip to Karlstejn Medieval Castle, built by Charles 4th around 1348 A.D., the castle still has lots of original furniture and paintings. Close by is a very picturesque old village it’s specialty is wooden puppets and toys and lots of Bohemian glass .
Sadly the night before I leaving I was robbed in the Metro underground railway by a group of professional thieves, they were Gypsies who are a huge problem in the city and pry on tourists. They stole $400 U.S. and D.M’s and a credit card, which was useless as it had my picture on it, luckily my passport and remainder of my money was in my money belt inside my trousers. This did spoil the end of a fabulous visit to Prague.
Now, my next visit to Germany in 1999 allowed me to visit the Fitzthum family again in Kassel, these wonderful people had organized a week of showing me further beauty spots around the city which is close to the old East German border. Among my surprises was a trip into Chech. Rep.to visit the beautiful old Spa Town of Marianske Lazne or Marienbad which it is commonly called. This tourist town has many wonderful old Hotels, each with it’s own character, the mineral spa’s buildings are so lovely with their masses of wrought iron work and panted in nice pastel shades of the Victorian era. The spars have been giving relief to people with heart disorders, skin problems, arthritis and stress, evidently very popular with Hitler. The town is also the original home of the Kolonada Chech Wafer and I was able to stock up with supplies for family back home. Another original among the never ending porcelain crockery is a drinking vessel shaped like a teapot, it is used for the mineral waters, just lift the spout to drink, there is a huge selection to choose from. On our return to Germany we stopped to take a look at the beautiful Wallfahrtskieche church, built in 1685, a circular building , almost Russian style with three domes dominating the horizon, also along the way we stopped at a country market, most of the stalls were run by Asians. The road was littered with many sellers of colourful mostly garden statues including gnomes of all sizes, we passed through lots of lovely little villages, all with their tall church steeples and it was nearly harvest time for the fields of golden sunflowers, this was a very full but rewarding day thanks to my great friends.
I had planned on another visit to Germany including Russia the year 2001 but sadly I decided to cancel my holiday which would have started in England and most of the places I wanted to see were plagued with foot and mouth disease among the farm animals. I had thought of going straight to Germany but decided I still want to visit these English places and would need to go back there next year, being retired now one has to look at the economic side of travel, of course now I have something to look forward to next year.

Photo. Stod. Czech. Rep.

Till next time.

Cheers

JIM

Travel. O.seas. The Gypsies of Prague

The Gypsies of Prague.
After spending two wonderful weeks exploring the wonders of Turkey, another two travelling though Germany there was still time to spend a few days in the beautiful city of Prague in the Czech Republic.
This visit was a complete opposite to a previous visit under Communist ruling. With little change to it’s beauty, old landmarks like St. Vitus Cathedral and St. Nicholas Church with their huge spires dominating the landscape. Charles Bridge, a walk in history as you pass the thirty statues and sculptures that make the background for hundreds of souvenir stalls, my favourite being the oil and watercolour paintings.
In the old town square is the 15th century Town Hall and astronomical clock, which still puts on a wonderful display of clockwork figures which enact an hourly timely story. Wenceslas Square is the main central Avenue of the city with fashionable hotels, stores, office buildings and many sidewalk cafes, Mc Donald’s fast foods is discreetly settled behind lovely old façade’s.
The Czech Republic is the home of my ancestors so it a special place for me, I love it’s beauty and ponder over the facts that many of my ancestors had also admired the unspoilt and historical culture of a century ago.
My Hotel was about ten kilometres out of the central city and was easily reached by the speedy underground railway network. Each day I made the journey home after a full sightseeing program.
This particular day I decided to redeem some traveller’s cheques, changing them into 500 Deutsch Marks for my return to Germany.
I caught an evening train back to my hotel, which was packed with workers returning home and only standing room was available. I soon became aware of three young males surrounding me very closely but making no eye contact. At the next station I was forcibly taken from the train and swiftly shoved around the dark side of the building where they all immediately began to handle me roughly, punching and kicking me until I fell to the ground, a heavy boot connected with my head and I seem to drift in and out of an unconscious state. As I recovered a bit, one of the thugs showed me a flick knife and he proceeded to draw blood from my throat area, he was speaking a strange language, which made the scene worse trying to understand what he wanted. I knew by his anger that I was in real danger for my life. He ripped my shirt open to expose my money belt, unzipped it and stole money and a credit card. After a few more fists to my face and kicks to my body, they departed when another train came into the station.

It took sometime to return to reality and realising the thieves had taken my money and credit card I staggered back to the platform and waited for the next train.
Back at the hotel the receptionist was very helpful, cancelling my credit card, not that it would be any good to them as it had my photo on it, she gave instructions of how to go to a small police station close by. Luckily I had left my passport and tickets in the room safe of the hotel. I realised that the thieves had missed the inside zip of my money belt where there was another 500 Deutsch Marks.
The officers at the police station were not very interested in my problem and could only communicate in broken English, I did understand that they were getting hundreds of theft complaints every day and most were victims of Gypsies from other countries but were very sympathetic in my problem.
On returning home, my insurance policy claim covered my loss of money and a new shirt but of course nothing could help the dramatic experience of being assaulted and robbed. Luck was on my side, the credit card had not been used but it took a long time for me to put aside the nightmares of this horrible experience.

Travel o.seas.The Royal Letch Wedding

The Royal Letch Wedding


This short story is dedicated to a very special union between two wonderful people….

Harry Letch & Joni Merendino.


After the many hassles with terrible disasters in new York and Washington, plus the near receivership of New Zealand’s flag ship “ Air N.Z. “ which I was originally booked on but my travel agent managed to change my tickets to Singapore Airlines just in case I would loose my money.

My friends from Los Angeles, Alvina and Robbie had been staying with me before my departure and we all left the same day, me to Edinburgh and my friends back to the tension that was still with the people of America.

My flight was long and tiring , a change of planes in Singapore, refuel stop at Brussels, Belgium then on to Manchester, England and finally a domestic flight to Edinburgh.

My friend Harry was there to welcome me and take me to his and Joni’s rented home in Dalgety Bay , Fife. After a much needed shower and change of clothes it was time to hear all the plans for their forthcoming marriage at Gretna Green and then three days later the reception in the beautiful old Ravensworth Arms English pub which is near Birtley , New Castle-upon-Tyne.

Wedding present time for Harry and Joni with gifts I brought from there New Zealand friends, these included a wooden frames oval wall clock, wooden coasters, cheese board and pot stand, all in N.Z. Rimu timber, a lovely oil painting of a N.Z. scene of mountains and a lake. There was also a delicate pair of Champagne glasses with their names frosted on and a little Kiwi on the base.

My first day in Scotland was mild and sunny after heavy rain during the night. After the first of many what I call suicide breakfasts ( bacon, eggs, sausages, mushrooms and tomatoes ), typical of Great Britain Harry took me on a tour around the lush countryside, quaint villages, Lakes and picturesque country lanes. A stop at a most interesting old Pub for my first taste of local beer, many brews to choose from, there were many collectables on the walls ( reminds me of my place ). Moving on to another pub meant to view the beautiful dining room of the Woodside Inn, an old sailing ships galley had been used for the décor.

Next day we took a drive into Edinburgh, this was my third visit to the beautiful city, the previous times the sun was shining and so it was again. Princes Street still looks elegant with the colourful sunken gardens on the other side of the street. As I had an injury to my leg it was difficult to walk much distance, also parking is just impossible near the main area so it was a chance to explore the city by car, we did manage a car park behind the Castle so I was able to take some different photos from the usual.

Next morning Joni went for a prenuptial manicure while Harry and I did some more sightseeing, we found some very nice villages plus a thousand year old church still being used, a feature was the lovely stained glass windows. Late afternoon we made the 2-½ hour journey to Gretna Green through rolling countryside and little villages in the distance from the motorway. I had visited Gretna Green over twenty years ago and it still looked the same with it’s old Blacksmiths Shop, pubs and lots of bed and breakfast places, we had booked into a lovely old one, then had nice meal in the Crossways Inn.

Next morning the 10th October after a very stormy night the weather managed to clear for this very important day for Harry and Joni which I had travelled around the world to witness. After a suicide breakfast and doing my best to calm Harry, reassuring him that his hair was not too short or his tie was knotted wrongly it was time for action at the Registry Office. Harry’s sister’s Iris and Muriel arrived from Birtley with Iris’s husband Ritchie, also with us was Joni’s daughter Diana who had come her from America. The civil ceremony took about ten minutes, in that time it changed Harry’s 50 plus years of freedom to a very lucky man.

A short distance away was the Blacksmiths Shop , an ideal setting for those wedding photos. Many years ago young couples used to elope to Gretna Green , they could marry without their parent’s permission, now it is still a very romantic place to come to. The first photos were taken in the anvil room, an old coach in the background made a good backdrop along with the kilted Scotsman who performed a further ceremony as it had probably been done all those years ago. The courtyard also lent to some nice pictures, a spiral iron staircase decked in flowers was also very pretty. A lone piper completed the picture for this very happy couple.

Our small wedding party retired to the Crossways Inn for as luncheon, no small helping here, as usual it was a very tasty meal.

Harry and Joni left us for a couple of days by themselves before collecting Joni’s two sons who were coming from America for the wedding reception, I travelled back to Birtley with Harry’s sisters, his brother-in-law and Joni’s daughter Diana. I stayed with Iris and Ritchie till after the reception. I was able to get to a doctor with my painful leg; the medication soon eased the pain. All medical treatment is free for the over 65’s and I was entered as a Temporary Resident which also covered my medication. Ritchie took me for a long drive to see the sights around New Castle, firstly the huge red steel statue of “The Angel of the North “ with it’s outstretched arms, and built on a hill it could be seen for miles around. Next to the Tyne’s old bridge and the new millennium masterpiece simply called “ the Eye “, a half circle footbridge anchored with huge steel ropes that lift it high in the air when shipping passes by.

Next morning I met up with an old friend Gary cooper from Durham who kindly took me on a tour of the Durham sights starting with the old cobbled streets leading up to the huge cathedral with it’s lovely leadlight windows showing biblical scenes and beautifully carved seats , the size of the cathedral was just so hard to imagine from the outside. We moved on to a huge covered in market where I managed to add some more C.D’s to my collection and a few little collectables of Durham. We then drove to an even larger shopping complex called Suderland, it seemed to be closed in over cobbled streets . A new highway was unique with it’s under road heating and large flower bowls along it’s length . after Gary dropped me off back in Birtley it was time to join the lads pub night, Friday, Harry and Joni had arrived back and it was great to catch up with old friends and more of Harry’s family.

I have found that cycling is kind to my injured leg so Ritchie and I took to the road travelling on some pretty lanes and lush countryside, all too soon one reaches another town and another huge shopping complex.

Saturday, the wedding reception was held in the lovely old Ravensworth Arms Hotel, the cosy dining room was tastefully decorated in pink and white ( Harry’s colours ) , lots of English and American flags and flowers everywhere. The buffet style meal was nicely presented and a very nice Australian red wine was to my liking. I was a bit nervous when it came to my turn for a speech , being the best man and the only kiwi here among these north English people, I did get quite a good hearing even though I read it, claiming that us New Zealander’s are very shy . The night was very mild which aloud us to make use of a very nice outdoors setting after all the formal part of the evening was over. During the reception a novelty flying pig with wings flapped around the room attached to a long string, the motive of this was Harry’s answer to the question , when is he getting married….” Pigs will fly first “ The evening continued until late and was a most friendly, enjoyable wedding to celebrate the union of these two wonderful people.

During the night it rained again but was now clear so Ritchie took me to a “boot sale” market before Iris’s Sunday roast dinner. This was an experience I had never seen before, a whole football field was taken up with vehicles with their boots up and selling anything from household items, C. D.’s & tapes, motor parts, clothing , jewellery and toys. A pork sandwich just about filled me for the day, it was huge and I still had to front up to Iris’s roast. We stopped off at another large shopping complex run by the Church of England where I tried to buy a flying pig to take home but they had sold out. The roast dinner complete with Yorkshire puddings was well received from the twelve who enjoyed it.

Harry and Joni took the two boys back to Manchester for their flight back to America while I did some more sightseeing which included a remarkable Garden Centre currently selling Christmas novelties by the acre. The newly weds arrived back late after having to battle a 30 mile traffic build-up, we were to go back to Edinburgh but decided the next morning would be better.

Having said goodbyes to my wonderful hosts , it was so great being able to stay with local people instead of motels, you learn lots about the customs and style of living. Blue sky made the journey pleasant, we travelled on the A 1 highway till we reached the lovely old town of Alnwich where Harry and Joni have bought their dream home just a short distance from the town, it is a lovely two storied place , formal dining and lounge rooms , a nice conservatory and mature gardens. The town itself has a long history, there is still remains of the town wall, a large castle and most important to Joni a hardware shop that sold just about everything. Our next stop was Bamburg town for lunch in a nice pub overlooking the little fishing harbour on the North Sea. The nearby castle has always been a favourite of mine.

Soon we were back in Dalgety Bay, time for a little relaxing before preparing for a two day trip north to Inverness. The morning dawned clear and mild as we started the journey, firstly crossing the Kincardine Bridge at Edinburgh and followed the northern route passed Stirling and Dunblane, our first stop was to view Loch Lubnaig, a very pretty lake, winding further north we travelled through Glen Coe, there were some spectacular views of rugged mountains, snowfields and deep valleys, a few pine trees and lots of tussock grasses. Our next port of call was at Fort William, a pretty tourist town set besides the beginning of Loch Ness, we passed through Fort Agustus and on to our destination for the night at Drumnadoch , overlooking Loch ness. Unfortunately Urquhart castle was closed for renovations so it was difficult getting a decent photo. After a very nice dinner we walked the short distance to the village and found a very quaint old pub called the fiddler. A joke was played on Joni, the drink she ordered arrived in a rounded bottomed glass, when she complained about glass the barmaid suggested she had too much to drink, this created a good laugh from these friendly people.

Next morning we travelled further north along the shores of Loch Ness to Inverness, unfortunately the weather started to turn nasty but we did manage a quick look around the city, an old foot swing bridge was a bit scary when walking on it as there was quite a bit of movement. Our journey back south took us through Glen Carry, the cloud had come down to nearly wheel level so no chance to admire the scenery. A stop at Perth city was out as it was raining heavily, a shame I hadn’t been there before. Of course the rain stopped when we arrived back in Edinburgh.

It was now time to pack my bag for my flight to Heathrow to meet up with Keith, an old friend whom I will spend the last three days with. A last farewell dinner the night before was at the beautiful Woodside Inn that has the sailing ship galley framing the dining room, there were some lovely carved figures and stained glass windows, our meal was superb along with some very nice tenants beer.

My departure from Edinburgh Airport looked unlikely by the thick fog but seemed to clear enough to depart. It was very hard to say goodbye to my friends but just one glance at them told me how happy they were together.

My arrival at Heathrow was on schedule but no Keith, about an hour later he arrived all flustered, his cars exhaust had fallen off close to the airport, luckily he managed to have it repaired temporary . Soon we were on our way to Benfleet in Essex, northeast of London. It was great to see Keith again, it must be three years since he came out to N.Z. for a visit so what better way to relax and catch up with life than over a pint in a very old pub called Hoy and Helmet. Heavy low beams and lots of pictures and paintings showed the hotel dated back to the 18th century, as usual we enjoyed another nice pub meal.

Overnight there was very heavy rain but fine in the morning, the exhaust system on keith’s car needed replacing then we were off to see the sights, firstly Camby Island, close by and only separated from the mainland by a tidal stream, it was very flat and needed a high wall on the seaside to stop the island from flooding. Next we drove into the countryside of Essex, passing through many small towns and villages, some very picturesque like Burnham on Crouch, Maldon and Danbury. Battles Bridge had some very interesting old wooden buildings. On to Rayleigh town with it’s many old houses. On the journey back we stopped in to see the remains of Hatleigh Castle high on a hill overlooking Camby Island, not much left to see but it must have been a very impressive Castle in it’s days, the walls were easy a mitre thick. Keith cooked a nice dinner at his place, a change from eating out all the time. Rain set in again so it was a good night to enjoy some TV.. We watched “A star for the Night “ and who wants to be a millionaire, two excellent programs.

My last full day in England, raining again, we took a train to South end and waited in a beautiful old pub for another friend Alan to arrive. We all took a walk in the rain around the town and saw the Cliff Pavilion where lot’s of great live shows are performed. Along the seafront were lot’s of side shows and mini casinos, plus a mile ling jetty, not a day for photography, another pub and a very nice meal, then back on the train to the next town called Leigh-on-Sea, lots of old seafront fish factories and another old pub. A shame on the weather as the sea front would have been more pleasant in the sunshine. Time for goodbyes to Alan, it was nice to catch up with him again. This was the end of my last day of sightseeing, tomorrow it is homeward bound.

What a surprise, the day I have to go home and the sun is shining. Had my last suicide breakfast and after checking the traffic on the motorways discovered there had been an accident and traffic was banked up for twenty miles so we needed an alternative route to the airport. Here in N.Z.. if there are a dozen cars waiting , that’s our traffic jams.

Security at the airport wasn’t as strict as I thought it should have been but I guess behind the scenes our luggage was well x-rayed. My flights home were long and tiring but at least I did have my isle seats which allowed me to walk around the plane.

This trip has been brief but wonderful to have the honour of being best man at the wedding of two wonderful people, I wish them every happiness there is and hopefully I will see them in Mooloolaba, Australia where I am going to settle as soon as my house sells. I will miss Hamilton, my hometown of 45 years plus but to see my family I need to be closer to where they live.


End of another wonderful adventure.

Cheers

JIM