Tales of old

As I sit around on Christmas Day with Kim, my mum and her partner, and my dad and his partner, I listen to the men sharing stories from their youth. It gets me thinking that us young folk tend to discuss issues and plans for the future rather than spend time sharing stories of old and reminiscing about the past. I enjoy hearing these stories and learning piece by piece more about my family.

Dad is passionately telling us a story about the son of the Italian Ambassador who came off his bike and cracked his head on the curbing, which my grandfather proceeded to try and mend (his head, not the curbing). This then lead to my father's family being invited to dine at the Ambassador house, and my dad eating the best pasta he has ever had in his life (story is 50 years old).

The men tell stories and the women listen. I am reminded of what a great storyteller my dad is, and why don't I make more time in my busy life to sit down and listen to these tales. Kim comments that she is surprised and pleased that the T.V. has not been on all day. We have talked, listened, eaten, and drank for 9 hours - this is the good stuff.

Naughty girl, awesome punctuation

Dear Megan

I'm really sorry I didn't do my spelling homework. I was so busy but that doesn't mean it wasn't my fault. I promise I will do my hardest in spelling all year next year, even though I won't be in your class. I wish I could take all that back and do it all over again. Please can you forgive me?!

I have no idea why I did them lovely and nicely last term, and then haven't done them this term! The only thing new is swimming on Tuesdays that goes for 4.30-5.00, which to ask me is a fine time to do spelling homework and I'm doing my reading homework greatly! I don't want to be any trouble but sometimes I do and I really don't like spelling. But still, that isn't an excuse for homework! Even though I'm in trouble at the moment, you're still the best teacher ever! Can we still be teacher and child friends? (written by L, aged 7)

Europe is a country and everyone speaks french here

The List

Feels like it is time to write one of those 'Within the next 5 years I will . . ." lists. I don't generally like to put time frames on things, so, actually, let's just call it "Stuff to do". (Ha, have just reread this. Not wanting to put time frames on things, hmm, that says quite a lot . . .)

(In no particular order)

1. Become AP or at least a Senior Teacher
2. Become an intermediate level skiier
3. Buy a house/ set up an eco village
4. Read more books
5. Participate in performance dance
6. Sing in a band
7. Become a sustainable education guru
8. Go on a cruise ship
9. Visit friends in Canada/America
10. Walk the Routeburn Track
11. Experience the Monarch Butterfly migration and Día de los Muertos celebrations in Mexico
12. See the Baobab trees in either Australia or Madagascar

My favourite :)

Subtitles - incomprehensible kiwi accent?