It had to happen at some point. It was folly to think that attempting 26 activities in 26 weeks would result in 26 positive experiences. And yet (after 9 really good weeks) I had pushed that idea to the back … Continue reading
J is for Juggling
Monthly Archives: March 2012
I is for Instrument lesson: Banjo
There are many things that I wish I could do, many skills that other people possess that seem to allude me, but none frustrates me more than my lack of musical ability. I think my issue is that it’s un-fakeable. … Continue reading
I is for Ice skating
So far as I remember it,
in the 1980s the Zambian television schedule consisted of two (equally entertaining) things. From 6am until 8pm, the national anthem would play (on repeat) over a static image of the Zambian flag – kind of like the BBC test card. Then, at 8pm, Wogan would come on. When Wogan finished that was the evenings entertainment over. There were, of course, exceptions that even poor old Wogan had to sit in the cheap seats for and these were (apart from the Live Aid concert) almost exclusively sporting events. Cricket, Rugby, Formula 1, Moto GP, Wimbledon, Darts, Snooker…. none of them captured my childhood imagination. Not until, in spring 1988, the gods of Zambian television decided to show highlights from the Winter Olympics in Calgary, Canada.
H is also for Hot Stone Massage
This lesson I have learned: You should always take Anne-Marie Langford‘s advice.
Of course, this lesson doesn’t mean much to those of you who haven’t met the wonderful Miss Langford (you might yet, she’s international these days) but suffice it to say I’m grateful she gives me advice and plan on taking it henceforth. For context, it was Anne who suggested alphabetising my activities (incidentally the idea of writing a blog at all was down to Christy O’Sullivan who has been complaining that I never mention him), Anne who prepared me for the reality of working away from home and, just last week, Anne who told me to go for a Hot Stone Massage. Brilliant advice all round.
H is for Hula Hooping
I was born in Africa (exciting!)… to English parents (less exciting!)… and came to England before I was 7 (mundane!). In answer to your next questions, No – I did not meet either Lenny Henry or Bob Geldof and Yes, … Continue reading
G is for Graffiti: Yarn bombing
I am not brave. In fact, more than that, I am often scared.
In situations where most people would not see an issue (going to a pub where there might be people I don’t know) I find my pulse racing and I struggle to make conversation.
In situations where other people would generally feel a sense of trepidation (Job interviews, exams) I am crippled with fear – a nauseous, sweaty pile of a person.
Of course, in recent weeks I have alphabettered this situation. Going to new places and meeting new people on a weekly basis, trying things I’ve never done before, learning coping strategies; challenging myself. I am braver than I was. More confident. But there remains a black cloud on my sunny new fear-free horizon. Something that most people grow out of when they rebel in their teens – I am terrified of being told off. Continue reading
