It was my first year of teaching. There I was, teaching English at a girl's school in Hastings, England. Most of my classes were well behaved, with the exception of year 9. Half a dozen students simply never stopped talking. Another student, lets call her Faith, was well behaved and always trying to do her work. She … Continue reading The V System
The Nipple Story
When I was a uni student, I had a part time job supervising the children during Summer Vacation Care. It was a hot day, so we were in the pool. The kids were diving in. Jumping out. Swimming. Splashing. Some kids were climbing on my shoulders and then jumping off. One kid, an eight year old, climbed onto my … Continue reading The Nipple Story
Ouzo in Greece
During my travels I wound up in Greece, the setting of Xena: Warrior Princess! I was wandering the streets of Athens, enjoying the sites of the city. I stood at a pedestrian crossing, waiting for the distinctive Greek bird call to signal 'walk'. A short, elderly gentleman came beside me. "Which country are you from?" He … Continue reading Ouzo in Greece
Australian Idol
Some of friends had decided to audition for Australian Idol. I was just old enough, so, for a joke, really, I decided to join them! Whilst in a queue that lasted for hours, I decided I would sing, The Elephant Love Medley; a duet, that I performed with myself, with different hats. Hilarious. Finally we got through … Continue reading Australian Idol
The Boat Battery
My housemate, Matt, and I, each had a boat. I loved to take my precious Boaty out on the Hawkesbury every second weekend, for aquatic activities. T'was a regular Saturday morning at the boat-ramp, and I turned the ignition key as I usually did. Nothing happened. "Why won’t it start?" I searched around, looking for answers. … Continue reading The Boat Battery
First Day at Bupa
Through a series of coincidences I was starting a new job as a 'Recreational Activities Officer' at a Nursing Home at Bupa, North Rocks. I arrived for my first day and was assigned to the Emerald Ward, for residents with dementia. I was armed with bingo chips, sing-a-long lyrics and a morning exercise routine. "Hello darling, it's so wonderful … Continue reading First Day at Bupa
The Rip
It was the summer of 2010, and there was finally some warmth in the air, after the long, dark winter. My housemates et al were excited for this season's spearfishing adventures - I was interested to swim around like a dolphin (I couldn't spear fish due to being heavily affected by Finding Nemo). Six of us … Continue reading The Rip
Indian Village Dance
On one of my many travels to India, I came to rural village. The village was just outside Puttaparthi, a town where the Guru, Sai Baba, had made residence. The man made his mark on the area, people often greeting with the words 'Sai Ram' in his honour. Some, I discovered, despised Sai Baba, as he claimed to be … Continue reading Indian Village Dance
Jacob at Jamberoo
It was the annual Owen family holiday to Jamberoo Recreation Park: Where you control the action. This story is about my younger brother Jacob. Jacob was a sweet child; imaginative, thoughtful, and, if not monitored, he was susceptible to becoming lost. It was time to go on the famous Toboggans. The 4 siblings were planning to race down … Continue reading Jacob at Jamberoo
The Disco Ball
It was the final dress rehearsal for a show I was directing, Seussical the Musical. It was a big musical, fifty cast members, and all of the sets and lights and costumes that we could afford; even a giant disco ball above the stage. The cast were called onto the stage for a meeting and warm-up. So they … Continue reading The Disco Ball