I wasn't always a teacher [Part 2]

When I left New Zealand in 1984 at the age of 24 I left with feelings of excitement but also uncertainty. I remember vividly the drive from Dunedin to the Airport with my grandmother in the back seat with me. We were both a bit upset because my grandmother was 80 and we were very close. There was a sense of maybe this being our last time together. As it turned out that was the case. On the plane I was somewhat anxious and was wondering what the future had in store.

I had a one way ticket to San Francisco with no onward journey. I had US$1500 and the plan was to travel across America finishing in New York from where I would fly to London. I took a 3 day excursion with the Green Tortoise Bus Company to Yosemite. We slept on the bus which was a new experience. Quite comfortable as the bus had fold out beds. An incredible place of remarkable beauty that I was fortunate enough to revisit with my family a few years ago.

During my time travelling in America I met some wonderful people who put me up and took me places.

I had some scary moments such as going for a run in Los Angeles having left all my valuables at a person's house I had only recently met. In horror after a 20 minute run I realised I was completely lost without an address. Thankfully after a while the lady I was staying with drove her car around the neighbourhood and rescued me.

I lived with a father and daughter in Atlanta for a short time. We were the only white people in the street which was quite weird for me coming from a place like Dunedin. I had had an extremely sheltered life to this point. Bus journeys into the city were interesting. I met a man who owned a red corvette who drove me around and introduced me to his family and running friends.

My longest stay was in Little Rock, Arkanas of all places. I met a couple who owned a health store called Beans, Grains and Things. We shared an interest in alternative music such as Joy Division. They were most friendly and kiwis were an unknown breed to them. In fact few knew where New Zealand was and some thought it was attached to Australia. Strangely my future wife, Jo was also living in Little Rock and shopped at Beans, Grains and Things though neither of us were aware of each other's presence there. How peculiar that we should meet up several years later at my dad's work. In Little Rock I was looked upon as a novelty item. The locals loved my accent and I always had a captive audience. I found I didn't have to pay for many drinks.

As much as I loved being in America all good things must come to an end. Also money was running out and I missed some basic things like watching cricket and eating Fish and Chips out of newspaper.

Just before leaving New York a rifle shot passed me into a shop window near Time Square. A frightening experience! Finally I got on the plane and headed for London. To be continued.

Lucky Father of Two Beautiful Girls

I had spent many years just trying to take care of myself. It was a bit of a struggle at times but got through to my late 20's reasonably unscathed. Little did I know that my entire world would be turned around when our two lovely girls arrived on the scene.

I discovered in myself extremely strong paternal instincts and delighted in being a doting dad. I loved taking the girls to parks and having an excuse to be a big kid on the swings and slides. I was thrilled to take the girls on runs and watch them compete in races and triathlons. It was fun watching them grow and learn. Birthdays and holidays were special times.

Our trip to America was the most amazing experience with visiting National Parks, Disneyland, Las Vegas, Death Valley, Grand Canyon and San Francisco.

I regard myself particularly fortunate to have had the opportunity to share my life with our two incredible girls. I am thankful to have had such wonderful experiences of being a father.

As the girls reach an age of independence it is reassuring that the relationships we've had with our girls have helped develop them into confident and healthy young adults.

This special relationship is reflected in my song Will Be Right Here. Click here to listen

                                                          Will Be Right Here

                                          Chorus
                                          Forget worries and cares...lay rest your fears
                                          Daddy's close by...will be right here

                                          Nothing will get you while safe in my arms
                                          No danger awaits you will do you harm
                                          Be soothed and settled peaceful calm
                                          I'll cool your brow deep sleep allow

                                          The troubles of the day let them go away
                                          Cuddle up warm....restful stay
                                          Snuggled up tight as a bug in a rug
                                          As I comfort you gently wuth kisses and hugs

                                          The sandman is coming he's waiting to call
                                          As eyes become heavy into slumber fall
                                          We'll see you tomorrow as a new day unfurls
                                          My dearest most precious sweet little girl