The glint in the eyes of children as the magic of Xmas approaches...have they been naughty or nice?
Even at my age.....there is an undeniable feeling about goodwill and peace on earth. In past years we have enjoyed celebrating christmas in overseas destinations; including once being in Bethlehem.
At this year's Xmas party I have to buy a gift in what is called a Kris Kringle -- this is sometimes called secret santa: where you get a present for someone else based on a lucky draw. There are clear instructions about: how much to spend and what items could be on this person's wish list.
So let's assume we all have been good and as a human race we deserve three wishes. What would be my Christmas wishes?
I wish :
1. Everyone is happy and happiness is not measured by oil, US$, Gold or any other currency
2. No one is hungry -- all people have basic needs (food, medicine, shelter)
3. That there is never a war waged due to religion
These are 3 very simple lines -- but all of these are profoundly difficult to achieve. Frankly I'd settle to see any single one of these in my lifetime become a reality.
Merry Xmas all .......what can you do to help make one of these wishes a reality?
Friday, December 24, 2010
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Whole new world.....
Last evening we ventured out to see the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra play
Disney. There were 4 really talented Disney singers who did covers from the Lion
King, Little Mermaid, Mary Poppins, Jungle Book, Beauty and the Beast etc....
It was an evening filled with kids dressed as Pirates of the Penzance, Princesses etc
A really nice event.....with some singalong for the audience.
The evening ended with it's a Small World - the theme from what is a old but really
well constucted Disney ride. But it is interesting to think that would Disney have
made movies such as Aladdin in this day and age?
I'm not sure if there were meant to be any hidden meanings in this song; hopefully this music is
just about love between an arabic boy and his girlfriend. However as I read it it
occurs to me that the world Aladdin refers to could also mean other things:
- Christianity?
- Modern Living?
- The Western World?
- Democracy?
(Aladdin)I can show you the world Shining, shimmering, splendid Tell me, princess, now when did You last let your heart decide? I can open your eyes Take you wonder by wonder Over, sideways and under On a magic carpet ride A whole new world A new fantastic point of view No one to tell us no Or where to go Or say we're only dreaming (Jasmine)A whole new world A dazzling place I never knew But when I'm way up here It's crystal clear that now I'm in a whole new world with you (Aladdin)Now I'm in a whole new world with you
Friday, November 5, 2010
"I've Gotta Get a Message to You"
The songs from the past....this one a past number one hit; Robin Gibb who looks more geeky than Bill Gates sang without big brother Barry. He went through their considerable repetoire, so many great songs and once you got over the fact that Barry was not there and Maurice had already left this world -- it was a great concert.
Robin was stunning as he sung the ballards which showcased his voice. His renditions of songs from 'Saturday Night Fever', while missing Barry were still memorable. The management of the Palais Theatre insisted that there would be no dancing in the aisles and there were many fat and gray people moving in their seats.
The Bee Gees or Brothers Gibb were just a phenomenal group and songwriting machine that when they were over-exposed wrote classic songs for others to record. Apparently since the death of Maurice, the remaining brothers have vowed not to perform as the Bee Gees again. So as Robin promised to bring Barry with him next time...we won't be ever buying a ticket for a Bee Gees concert.
For me when we left Australia to go to Shanghai, we had to sell our Gold Reserve tickets to the Bee Gee concert -- that was a loss. Of course we didn't realise that we would never get another opportunity to see the group as a whole.
Let me admit I'm a fan of the Bee Gees and had their single records that I bought in the 60's. Their music even more so than the Beatles have defined my childhood, from the early materials through Fever and to 80's.
Heck I even named my daughter after the Bee Gees (only joking)
Oh yeah ...my last message to you - there is a Steven Spielberg movie that is being made of the life of the Bee Gees.......be sure to catch it.
Robin was stunning as he sung the ballards which showcased his voice. His renditions of songs from 'Saturday Night Fever', while missing Barry were still memorable. The management of the Palais Theatre insisted that there would be no dancing in the aisles and there were many fat and gray people moving in their seats.
The Bee Gees or Brothers Gibb were just a phenomenal group and songwriting machine that when they were over-exposed wrote classic songs for others to record. Apparently since the death of Maurice, the remaining brothers have vowed not to perform as the Bee Gees again. So as Robin promised to bring Barry with him next time...we won't be ever buying a ticket for a Bee Gees concert.
For me when we left Australia to go to Shanghai, we had to sell our Gold Reserve tickets to the Bee Gee concert -- that was a loss. Of course we didn't realise that we would never get another opportunity to see the group as a whole.
Let me admit I'm a fan of the Bee Gees and had their single records that I bought in the 60's. Their music even more so than the Beatles have defined my childhood, from the early materials through Fever and to 80's.
Heck I even named my daughter after the Bee Gees (only joking)
Oh yeah ...my last message to you - there is a Steven Spielberg movie that is being made of the life of the Bee Gees.......be sure to catch it.
Monday, November 1, 2010
America, Chicago, Brian Wilson (Beach Boys), Peter Frampton, Ross Wilson, Darryl Braithwaite
This week we are seeing all of these artists in concert- time has been kinder to some of the talents. It is an extraordinary array of talent and a reminder of our own aging. The girls in the front of the concert are no longer chicks and while they still shake that thing; also don't appear like the used to.
America (the band) had a great sound after 30+ years and I recall the Cassette Tape of America Greatest Hits that Albert Lee gave me for a 18th birthday. That was a special evening as it marked the first real date I had with Anna.
Peter Frampton also is still making great music. He particularly looked to be enjoying himself and was taking happy snaps while on stage and singing with Brian Wilson. It was clear that amongst these stars that Brian held a special status....and the artists were queuing up to take shots while they sang....
The chorus for Good Vibrations and Barbara Ann had the singers from Chicago, America and Peter Frampton all joining in. A classic oldie and it was clear that they enjoyed this as much as we did.
In Melbourne for the "Sounds of Summer"; except that it was a typical Melb weather -- damp, wet and quite cool. This friday evening we see Brother Gibb (Robin) who again I've been a big fan, I even had a single record when he went solo in the 60's. I'm not sure where that vinyl is.....but I'm looking forward to a reunion with the Bee Gees (or at least) what's available for us to see......
America (the band) had a great sound after 30+ years and I recall the Cassette Tape of America Greatest Hits that Albert Lee gave me for a 18th birthday. That was a special evening as it marked the first real date I had with Anna.
Peter Frampton also is still making great music. He particularly looked to be enjoying himself and was taking happy snaps while on stage and singing with Brian Wilson. It was clear that amongst these stars that Brian held a special status....and the artists were queuing up to take shots while they sang....
The chorus for Good Vibrations and Barbara Ann had the singers from Chicago, America and Peter Frampton all joining in. A classic oldie and it was clear that they enjoyed this as much as we did.
In Melbourne for the "Sounds of Summer"; except that it was a typical Melb weather -- damp, wet and quite cool. This friday evening we see Brother Gibb (Robin) who again I've been a big fan, I even had a single record when he went solo in the 60's. I'm not sure where that vinyl is.....but I'm looking forward to a reunion with the Bee Gees (or at least) what's available for us to see......
Friday, October 29, 2010
Friendship
When you think about Friendship the words that come to mind include: Trust, Honesty, Reciprocity and Mutual Understanding.
Your best friend's tend to have these qualities; and I add they never take you for granted. I grew up with some great friends that had these essential elements and over my travels, have made many fantastic friends.
Let me tell you about a friend who shall remain 'anonymous' and knowing him quite well he would prefer it that way. He is a very private person, infact quite the opposite of me in many aspects.
Unlike many others who I call a "friend", this person doesn't play golf -- infact does not like any sports ! And I would submit is a person who would not give trust easily,
It is curious then how we ever got to become friends? That's hard to answer and I'm sure I won't ever really understand. The Sitcom TV series Friends, which actually I never really liked had an official farewell commemorative book named: Friends 'Til The End. The cast members acknowledged in interviews that the cast had become their family.
Perhaps if this is true - our really good friends become part of your family. Your broader family......
Despite Ethnic Background, Golf, DNA etc
Your best friend's tend to have these qualities; and I add they never take you for granted. I grew up with some great friends that had these essential elements and over my travels, have made many fantastic friends.
Let me tell you about a friend who shall remain 'anonymous' and knowing him quite well he would prefer it that way. He is a very private person, infact quite the opposite of me in many aspects.
Unlike many others who I call a "friend", this person doesn't play golf -- infact does not like any sports ! And I would submit is a person who would not give trust easily,
It is curious then how we ever got to become friends? That's hard to answer and I'm sure I won't ever really understand. The Sitcom TV series Friends, which actually I never really liked had an official farewell commemorative book named: Friends 'Til The End. The cast members acknowledged in interviews that the cast had become their family.
Perhaps if this is true - our really good friends become part of your family. Your broader family......
Despite Ethnic Background, Golf, DNA etc
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
GPS Gold Challenge
Last weekend I participated in a old school reunion with a twist -- the class of 1977 competed at various sports - Rowing, Tennis, Athletics, Swimming etc. We all tested our 'muscle memory' to contort our bodies in positions that we used and were masterful some years ago.
After three days my legs are still aching and from the numerous emails on this subject; I'm not alone! We all woke up feeling 17 years old again and engaged in sports that we for the most part have not played for many many years. In my case as Captain of Basketball we played and won 1 out of 2 games, alas the jump shot was not working as I wanted and if my legs were working.....
The basketball was particularly rough and nearly anything was allowed - this served as a great warm-up for the 'touch' rugby which followed a few hours later. In the end with all ended with aching bodies from bumps, scrapes and using muscles that frankly I haven't used for many years.
To me the highlight was not only beating our nemesis St Joey's at Rugby (touch) and reversing our last game of 30 years ago, but to be playing with old friends. For many of us, things didn't needed to be said, we understood each other well and it was a pleasure to be in company of old friends and united against old foe. And indeed they were also 'old'.
I was particularly glad to see faces that I have not seen for 30 year + years. The interesting demographic is that I noticed that while the waistlines were all thicker and the hairline less and more gray, and there were very few Tattoos. However the competitive spirit had not dampened with age, in many cases the mind was more willing than the body.
A great day for the old boys and a worthy charity also benefited from this challenge. Nice job Tony and the organisers !
One wonders who will be up for a game in 10 years time?
After three days my legs are still aching and from the numerous emails on this subject; I'm not alone! We all woke up feeling 17 years old again and engaged in sports that we for the most part have not played for many many years. In my case as Captain of Basketball we played and won 1 out of 2 games, alas the jump shot was not working as I wanted and if my legs were working.....
The basketball was particularly rough and nearly anything was allowed - this served as a great warm-up for the 'touch' rugby which followed a few hours later. In the end with all ended with aching bodies from bumps, scrapes and using muscles that frankly I haven't used for many years.
To me the highlight was not only beating our nemesis St Joey's at Rugby (touch) and reversing our last game of 30 years ago, but to be playing with old friends. For many of us, things didn't needed to be said, we understood each other well and it was a pleasure to be in company of old friends and united against old foe. And indeed they were also 'old'.
I was particularly glad to see faces that I have not seen for 30 year + years. The interesting demographic is that I noticed that while the waistlines were all thicker and the hairline less and more gray, and there were very few Tattoos. However the competitive spirit had not dampened with age, in many cases the mind was more willing than the body.
A great day for the old boys and a worthy charity also benefited from this challenge. Nice job Tony and the organisers !
One wonders who will be up for a game in 10 years time?
Sunday, October 3, 2010
The Saints...go marching in
Yes...the Saints won today (not St Kilda) I mean the St George Rugby League team. This is the first time since 1979; so represents a very long time since their last success. Congrats to the Dragons !!
Today in beating Eastern Suburbs Roosters they go somewhat forward in eliminating the ghosts of that 1975 Grand Final v Easts where they whitewashed the Dragons by 38 to Nil !
It is hard not to relate that match to the great Graeme Langlands and his white boots. I did not see any boots that looked 'white' or even 'cream', however did see one player with "red" footie boots.
However living in Melbourne this win commands little if any attention and the win by Collingwood after 30 years is all the talk on the street.
Today in beating Eastern Suburbs Roosters they go somewhat forward in eliminating the ghosts of that 1975 Grand Final v Easts where they whitewashed the Dragons by 38 to Nil !
It is hard not to relate that match to the great Graeme Langlands and his white boots. I did not see any boots that looked 'white' or even 'cream', however did see one player with "red" footie boots.
However living in Melbourne this win commands little if any attention and the win by Collingwood after 30 years is all the talk on the street.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Childhood
Michael Jackson has a beautiful song with these lyrics:
Have you seen my Childhood?
I'm searching for that wonder in my youth
Like pirates in adventurous dreams,
Of conquest and kings on the throne...
Last weekend I reunited with my old friend Rodney Quong who I grew up with in Darwin. We last saw each other in (I believe) 1976 so it clearly is a long time ! As fate has it a random photo online led me to ask who was in the background with me, that person was Rodney -- who now lives in the same city as I do.
He hasn't changed, yes we all age and we look a little taller, fatter etc than in our youth. But underneath that we are the same people. It was an incredible experience and exhausting at the same time, to be using a part of your brain that you haven't exercised to recall stories etc
We had alot of catching up and we connected instantly. The depth of our background relationship runs deep and this allowed us to move quickly into the present.
As children we played 'war'; which was politically correct to do then. Cowboys and Indians was less popular and lacked the same heroic overtones that war - of the second world war variety embraced. Rodney and I with our families went to countless parties and sleepovers were a very common event.
Despite our choice of 'war' for play, from my memory we only every fought once in all those years.
Childhood is a wonderful place, caught in our memories. But we need to live in the now so Rodney I look forward to making friends again with my old friend.
Have you seen my Childhood?
I'm searching for that wonder in my youth
Like pirates in adventurous dreams,
Of conquest and kings on the throne...
Last weekend I reunited with my old friend Rodney Quong who I grew up with in Darwin. We last saw each other in (I believe) 1976 so it clearly is a long time ! As fate has it a random photo online led me to ask who was in the background with me, that person was Rodney -- who now lives in the same city as I do.
He hasn't changed, yes we all age and we look a little taller, fatter etc than in our youth. But underneath that we are the same people. It was an incredible experience and exhausting at the same time, to be using a part of your brain that you haven't exercised to recall stories etc
We had alot of catching up and we connected instantly. The depth of our background relationship runs deep and this allowed us to move quickly into the present.
As children we played 'war'; which was politically correct to do then. Cowboys and Indians was less popular and lacked the same heroic overtones that war - of the second world war variety embraced. Rodney and I with our families went to countless parties and sleepovers were a very common event.
Despite our choice of 'war' for play, from my memory we only every fought once in all those years.
Childhood is a wonderful place, caught in our memories. But we need to live in the now so Rodney I look forward to making friends again with my old friend.
Friday, September 17, 2010
The Little Engine
The Little Engine is a children's story about a train who is attempting to climb a mountain:
"I think I can, I think I can, I think I can"
Last weekend I was in Sydney to see if Australia could beat New Zealand in the Rugby, I specially worn a wallabies cap marked August 28th 1999 -- this was the last time I was "live" at a game where the Wallabies had beaten the AllBlacks.
Sitting with my two sons; we cheered and sang with the 70,000 crowd with the optimism of that little train. In the end Australia, lost by 1 point and while we didn't win there was the benefit of self-belief and that we are getting closer to the mark.
"I thought I could, I thought I could"
Next year is the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand; a mountain if ever there was one worth scaling and hopefully we then will be chatting:
"I thought I could, I did, I did."
"I think I can, I think I can, I think I can"
Last weekend I was in Sydney to see if Australia could beat New Zealand in the Rugby, I specially worn a wallabies cap marked August 28th 1999 -- this was the last time I was "live" at a game where the Wallabies had beaten the AllBlacks.
Sitting with my two sons; we cheered and sang with the 70,000 crowd with the optimism of that little train. In the end Australia, lost by 1 point and while we didn't win there was the benefit of self-belief and that we are getting closer to the mark.
"I thought I could, I thought I could"
Next year is the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand; a mountain if ever there was one worth scaling and hopefully we then will be chatting:
"I thought I could, I did, I did."
Saturday, September 4, 2010
What's in a name?
You know that I am as guilty as most for giving 'nicknames' to my family members. I've never thought about this too much it just is a natural inclination. For a person who grew up with Boobie, Boob, Jordie and other names it might come as a surprise that I would also wish to create these !
Wikipedia defines nickname as a descriptive name given in place of or in addition to the official name of a person, place or thing. It can also be the familiar or truncated form of the proper name, which may sometimes be used simply for convenience (e.g. "Bobby", "Bob", "Rob", or "Bert" for the name Robert). The term hypocoristic is used to refer to a nickname of affection between those in love or with a close emotional bond.
My sister Kerry got the brunt of this when she was young. It is however a great mnemonic which allows one to remember a name from characteristics of a person. This usually works really well for me as I meet new people and my recall is pretty good.
Even when I first started dating Anna; I told my newington friends that her name was Margaux. This completely threw them off !!!
OK now for a quiz; name this person:
Wikipedia defines nickname as a descriptive name given in place of or in addition to the official name of a person, place or thing. It can also be the familiar or truncated form of the proper name, which may sometimes be used simply for convenience (e.g. "Bobby", "Bob", "Rob", or "Bert" for the name Robert). The term hypocoristic is used to refer to a nickname of affection between those in love or with a close emotional bond.
My sister Kerry got the brunt of this when she was young. It is however a great mnemonic which allows one to remember a name from characteristics of a person. This usually works really well for me as I meet new people and my recall is pretty good.
Even when I first started dating Anna; I told my newington friends that her name was Margaux. This completely threw them off !!!
OK now for a quiz; name this person:
- Bunny?
- Beebum?
- Fatguy Attitude?
- Bullfrog?
- Little Gub?
- Prawn?
- Jane of the Jungle?
- Disco Benny?
- Pumpkin?
- Kobe Beef?
- _____ Bear ?
- Pie Head ?
- Buzzar?
- Bee?
- Samsonite
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Barossa & Adelaide Hills Weekend
Last weekend I was treated to a long weekend at the Barossa, it was about 18 years ago that I last visited and it was indeed a treat. We flew into Adelaide and made our way to Adelaide Hills and the well known Bridgewater Mill for lunch and tasting of the wonderful Petaluma Wines. Next Next we wandered to Shaw & Smith and enjoyed a fleet of wines with matching cheese, the wines were superb and the highlight was having a good discussion with Michael Smith who introduced himself when he overheard a reference to Shanghai -- a place he had just returned from.
Our destination was the Barossa Valley -- renown for fine wines and gourmet food; and we were not disappointed. The Barossa Shiraz wine's are amongst the best in Australia and we tasted many great drops. Amongst our favourite vineyards were:
We also visited Trevor Jones, Penfolds and Jacob's Creek -- each of these were good but not great.
But for my birthday dinner, Anna booked us into Appellation, perhaps the finest restaurant in the Barossa Valley. The food was superb and very much a take on the 3 Michellin star -- Chateau Cordeillan Bages from Pauillac, it was really good but never reached the heights that the Bordeaux classic inspiration must have instigated.
As we had brought various gourmet food items from the Barossa Farmer's market and Maggie Beer's Farm, meant that the experience would linger for many more months after this trip !!!
Our destination was the Barossa Valley -- renown for fine wines and gourmet food; and we were not disappointed. The Barossa Shiraz wine's are amongst the best in Australia and we tasted many great drops. Amongst our favourite vineyards were:
- Rockford
- Torbeck
- Charles Melton
- Henschke
We also visited Trevor Jones, Penfolds and Jacob's Creek -- each of these were good but not great.
But for my birthday dinner, Anna booked us into Appellation, perhaps the finest restaurant in the Barossa Valley. The food was superb and very much a take on the 3 Michellin star -- Chateau Cordeillan Bages from Pauillac, it was really good but never reached the heights that the Bordeaux classic inspiration must have instigated.
As we had brought various gourmet food items from the Barossa Farmer's market and Maggie Beer's Farm, meant that the experience would linger for many more months after this trip !!!
Friday, August 6, 2010
The Bledisloe Cup
Last weekend I took my two sons to the Rugby - a tradition and the most revered game between Australia and New Zealand. It was a special event that I had planned and we had not seen a "Bledisloe Cup' together for at least 12 years.
Having been starved of live rugby for many years, I was looking forward to this game and hosting my boys more than I realised. The weekend together was really great and we spent some time with Anna doing some walks and of course lots of eating.
Anna prepared a feast of 'tapas' and then we made the short walk to the Eithad Stadium, which is just less than 10 minutes away.
We sat in Gold tickets and the view was good, but we wondered how liberal the definition of ''Gold' was applied to the seating arrangements. The Rugby game itself started perfectly with Australia scoring from a freakish kick chargedown, however when NZ scored the same try within 2 minutes ; it was clear that this was not going to be an easy evening.
If I summarised the game, the kiwis were playing a new style of game and trying new tactics. These tactics worked well and Australia simply had no answer. It was hard to watch as NZ were just so good, and as much as the Wallabies tried it was to no avail.
In the end the real winner of the evening was myself -- who had managed to get my two sons down for the weekend.
Having been starved of live rugby for many years, I was looking forward to this game and hosting my boys more than I realised. The weekend together was really great and we spent some time with Anna doing some walks and of course lots of eating.
Anna prepared a feast of 'tapas' and then we made the short walk to the Eithad Stadium, which is just less than 10 minutes away.
We sat in Gold tickets and the view was good, but we wondered how liberal the definition of ''Gold' was applied to the seating arrangements. The Rugby game itself started perfectly with Australia scoring from a freakish kick chargedown, however when NZ scored the same try within 2 minutes ; it was clear that this was not going to be an easy evening.
If I summarised the game, the kiwis were playing a new style of game and trying new tactics. These tactics worked well and Australia simply had no answer. It was hard to watch as NZ were just so good, and as much as the Wallabies tried it was to no avail.
In the end the real winner of the evening was myself -- who had managed to get my two sons down for the weekend.
Friday, July 23, 2010
Lessons from my Dad
All of us have inherited both good and bad traits from our parents. In my case I was fortunate to be adopted by my birth uncle at a very early age of two years old. Thus I grew up with an extended family of two mothers and a father, during these formative years I picked up notions and some of these have stuck. In a similar fashion I can see some of these in the DNA of my own kids -- well not really DNA but more of nurture.
Kindness - Dad was very generous. He was generous with his time with the community as President of the Red Cross, Darwin Chinese Chung Wah Society and a active member of Rotary. We always had parties at our home and if there was a Navy ship or submarine in town, then they were all invited for a dinner and a night of entertainment. My Dad had a soft heart and I remember a time we were in Hong Kong on holidays and he saw a dirty & homeless man on the street - he crossed the road and gave that man money, despite the protests of my mum to be careful.
Respect for education - my father had been sent to college in Western Australia. David had studied accountancy and served as an electrician in the Australian Air Force. However he was a really poor book-keeper and could barely change a light bulb. David did really value education and he taught me how important this is.
Pride (and love) for his family - no doubt all Dads love their kids. My Dad was however at the best of times a little embarrassing and he would always be talking about how great his children or grandchildren were to others (as if we could not hear). We would often cringe and shirk away, so now I am very conscious when I hear myself do the same thing !
Passionate about adventure - David always loved to travel and dine out. The choices that were available in Darwin weren't great, but we would often try new places in town. I remember this even being roadside diners which had just opened. I was instilled at a early age the joys of exploring and trying new tastes -- to this end my own kids have this bug.
Always see the positive - My Dad was obsessed with buying Lottery Tickets. I'm not sure that he ever won anything of significance, but he had boxes of Sydney Opera House Tickets, House \ Car packages in the Gold Coast etc He always was convinced he would win big and then he had a script how he would spend this, give some to me etc. The funny thing is that despite this obsession with lotteries that he did not 'gamble'
These are lessons that I learnt from my Dad - some of these I have managed to pass onto my own kids.
- Kindness
- Respect for education
- Pride (and love) for his family
- Passionate about adventure - love of travel and food
- Always see the positive in everything
Kindness - Dad was very generous. He was generous with his time with the community as President of the Red Cross, Darwin Chinese Chung Wah Society and a active member of Rotary. We always had parties at our home and if there was a Navy ship or submarine in town, then they were all invited for a dinner and a night of entertainment. My Dad had a soft heart and I remember a time we were in Hong Kong on holidays and he saw a dirty & homeless man on the street - he crossed the road and gave that man money, despite the protests of my mum to be careful.
Respect for education - my father had been sent to college in Western Australia. David had studied accountancy and served as an electrician in the Australian Air Force. However he was a really poor book-keeper and could barely change a light bulb. David did really value education and he taught me how important this is.
Pride (and love) for his family - no doubt all Dads love their kids. My Dad was however at the best of times a little embarrassing and he would always be talking about how great his children or grandchildren were to others (as if we could not hear). We would often cringe and shirk away, so now I am very conscious when I hear myself do the same thing !
Passionate about adventure - David always loved to travel and dine out. The choices that were available in Darwin weren't great, but we would often try new places in town. I remember this even being roadside diners which had just opened. I was instilled at a early age the joys of exploring and trying new tastes -- to this end my own kids have this bug.
Always see the positive - My Dad was obsessed with buying Lottery Tickets. I'm not sure that he ever won anything of significance, but he had boxes of Sydney Opera House Tickets, House \ Car packages in the Gold Coast etc He always was convinced he would win big and then he had a script how he would spend this, give some to me etc. The funny thing is that despite this obsession with lotteries that he did not 'gamble'
These are lessons that I learnt from my Dad - some of these I have managed to pass onto my own kids.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
Marvellous Marvin Hamilisch
Marvin played last weekend with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra - he is an incredible talent who has been a past winner of Academy, Emmy, Grammy, and Tony Awards.
We expected a great entertainer and what we got was Marvin the storyteller who played the piano, conducted the orchestra, joked and entertained us. Marvin played some of his best themes and songs, plus he performed songs that he "wished he had written".
Marvin played a medley of songs from the great american songbook - Cole Porter and others. As he related "I do this as you just can't hear this kind of music anymore"
Other highlights of his performance were "A Chorus Line" and that songs from James Bond - " Nobody Does It Better "; that Carly Simon sang.
Marvin was Marvellous indeed !
Friday, June 25, 2010
Team Amelia
Just a few weeks ago I was proud to participate in Team Amelia and walk for cancer and charity. I'm sad to say that Amelia has passed away this week at the age of 20. Soon after that event she returned to hospital, I guess she stayed strong to make this happen. In this BLOG I recently talked about my old friend John Luani -- when I compare this to Amelia, I actually did know her very well, and we only knew her through her parents - Pam and Craig.
I'm sure you have heard it before but when someone dies at an early age -- it is hard not to ask why?
Taking a clinical view of this Amelia had in her DNA at birth a propensity to get cancer. It sounds cruel but that is the fact and there is nothing that could be done. It was pre-determined at birth.
All of us have the same pre-determined attributes and while we can have through behaviour, attitude and habits influence this outcome. You have to wonder what time bomb you have in your body and life? But hey.....why sit there wondering -- go and enjoy life !!!
I'm sure you have heard it before but when someone dies at an early age -- it is hard not to ask why?
Taking a clinical view of this Amelia had in her DNA at birth a propensity to get cancer. It sounds cruel but that is the fact and there is nothing that could be done. It was pre-determined at birth.
All of us have the same pre-determined attributes and while we can have through behaviour, attitude and habits influence this outcome. You have to wonder what time bomb you have in your body and life? But hey.....why sit there wondering -- go and enjoy life !!!
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Global Iconic Dishes @ Top 10 City
"Eating can be the best part of traveling, and travel authority Lonely Planet has come up with a list of the top 10 cities across the globe to enjoy iconic dishes."
Seems I only score 6/10 !!!! How did you go with this?
1. TAPAS IN BARCELONA, SPAIN
2. PASTA IN NAPLES, ITALY
3. DONER KEBAB IN ISTANBUL, TURKEY
4. STEAMED DUMPLINGS IN SHANGHAI, CHINA
5. FEIJOADA IN RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL
6. GUMBO IN NEW ORLEANS, USA
7. COUSCOUS IN CASABLANCA, MOROCCO
8. NASI GORENG IN PENANG, MALAYSIA
9. CURRY IN MUMBAI, INDIA
10. HOT DOG IN NEW YORK CITY, USA
Seems I only score 6/10 !!!! How did you go with this?
1. TAPAS IN BARCELONA, SPAIN
2. PASTA IN NAPLES, ITALY
3. DONER KEBAB IN ISTANBUL, TURKEY
4. STEAMED DUMPLINGS IN SHANGHAI, CHINA
5. FEIJOADA IN RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL
6. GUMBO IN NEW ORLEANS, USA
7. COUSCOUS IN CASABLANCA, MOROCCO
8. NASI GORENG IN PENANG, MALAYSIA
9. CURRY IN MUMBAI, INDIA
10. HOT DOG IN NEW YORK CITY, USA
Thursday, May 27, 2010
John
I can still recall the first day that I met John, he was much larger than we were and with dark skin and curled cropped haircut -- was hard to miss.John had an infectious smile, and was a gentle giant. There were times that he did lose his temper and you could see the rage in his eyes and it was terrifying. He was always first to say "hello, how are you?", while he was a quiet person he was never a party animal -- John always commanded respect in his own way.
John had an infectious smile, and was a gentle giant. There were times that he did lose his temper and you could see the rage in his eyes and it was terrifying. He was always first to say "hello, how are you?", while he was a quiet person he was never a party animal -- John always commanded respect in his own way.
Rugby was his passion and he was really good at this. His body was built to be a prop forward, it was god's will and John himself was a devout christian. You would hardly ever hear John swear, he however was very passionate when he played rugby and I do recall players from our own team being hurt by John as he flew in the rucks with his full force.
Touch Football was the safest place to play against John, however while he was a big kid - he was agile and very difficult to "tag". John had some background in Judo or Martial Arts and I only once saw him use this. That was on me...John had taken offence to me using a 'swear' word and before I knew it, he had flipped me over using technique and not brawn. Suffice to say I never used bad language around him again.
Lamingtons -- John loved these and would always say a 'touch of paradise' as it reminded him of his beloved Tonga. I was one of the lucky few who caught up with John years after we had left Newington. He was bigger and unfortunately not in the best of health -- John was always a great person who would listen and I'm sure that was an attribute in his Governor role.
Alcohol -- as I said John was never a party guy. However I do recall in the Boarding House that he created Jungle Juice using a fermented Watermelon. That was the only marginal thing I ever saw John do, amongst us he really was an angel and a large one at that !
Girls -- However John did have a pin-poster in his locker, it was I believe an African American girl. John used to smile and say "black power", look at her
John was a man with a good spirit, kind and someone that you could be around comfortably without trying him ever trying to impress you. I always imagined that I would get a chance to travel to Tonga, at some stage in my life and see John and his tribe of kids. Unfortunately that never happened.
He was a good mate and will be missed.
Here's to you John !Friday, May 21, 2010
Chateau Cordeillan-Bages
Last year we were hosted by Amber and Sam to Chateau Cordeillan-Bages in Paulliac in France. It is remiss of me to be making this blog entry this late (but my memory banks still avail me of doing this).
This is part of our Bordeaux, Cognac trip that was carefully planned for my 50th Birthday by Amber and Sam. Chateau Cordeillan-Bages was an amazing destination -- the chateau is well renown as a culinary experience with two star michellin and really superb food.
The degustation courses were all incredible, but then there was also the trolley carts -- chocolate, bread, butter (some incredible butters), dessert, then cheese trolley. We indeed needed a trolley to roll back to our rooms. The next day's breakfast was simpler but not simple with a collection of jams and spreads that makes you want to try every single one of these.
Chateau Cordeillan-Bages is a special destination - a place that you could truly choose for you last meal on earth. If you don't appreciate the food there, you have not simply not lived. Amber and Sam Thanks again for an experience I can't forget !
This is part of our Bordeaux, Cognac trip that was carefully planned for my 50th Birthday by Amber and Sam. Chateau Cordeillan-Bages was an amazing destination -- the chateau is well renown as a culinary experience with two star michellin and really superb food.
The degustation courses were all incredible, but then there was also the trolley carts -- chocolate, bread, butter (some incredible butters), dessert, then cheese trolley. We indeed needed a trolley to roll back to our rooms. The next day's breakfast was simpler but not simple with a collection of jams and spreads that makes you want to try every single one of these.
Chateau Cordeillan-Bages is a special destination - a place that you could truly choose for you last meal on earth. If you don't appreciate the food there, you have not simply not lived. Amber and Sam Thanks again for an experience I can't forget !
Saturday, May 8, 2010
Teamwork
I have been in many teams in my life: Rugby, Basketball, Dragon Boat and even an odd game of Soccer, Volleyball etc. The idea of teams and teamwork is important in life and we always under-estimate the value that this brings.
But today I was in a team, unlike any other I have had the privilege -- I was in a team of 670+ people in support of Team Amelia's for Mother's Day fight against cancer.
The team raised over $20,000 and Team Amelia was the largest in Australia. But this is not about money or being the biggest, fastest or strongest. We were all humbled to be part of this team supporting Amelia, who is fighting cancer herself and at a tender young age.
After the walk, Amelia and her parents Craig and Pam who we had met in Kobe, took the podium and spoke to us. There was hardly a dry eye in the place, and we all felt very glad that we had undertaken this event. But it was clear that this was not just an event for Amelia, it was part of her 'fight' for her life and the team that stood before her (all 600 of us) were with her in this journey.
Thanks to all that donated money to this cause -- we are indeed saving ourselves and our own families.
http://www.everydayhero.com.au/team_amelia_melbourne
But today I was in a team, unlike any other I have had the privilege -- I was in a team of 670+ people in support of Team Amelia's for Mother's Day fight against cancer.
The team raised over $20,000 and Team Amelia was the largest in Australia. But this is not about money or being the biggest, fastest or strongest. We were all humbled to be part of this team supporting Amelia, who is fighting cancer herself and at a tender young age.
After the walk, Amelia and her parents Craig and Pam who we had met in Kobe, took the podium and spoke to us. There was hardly a dry eye in the place, and we all felt very glad that we had undertaken this event. But it was clear that this was not just an event for Amelia, it was part of her 'fight' for her life and the team that stood before her (all 600 of us) were with her in this journey.
Thanks to all that donated money to this cause -- we are indeed saving ourselves and our own families.
http://www.everydayhero.com.au/team_amelia_melbourne
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Towering 10
Recently I was featured as an Alumni of University of Technology, Sydney. As my wife, son and daughter had all completed multiple degrees at this institution -- it was somewhat embarrassing for me having only completed a Postgraduate Software Engineering diploma.
The article was called 'Towering 10', and yes I can be described as 'tall' when I lived in Japan; but by this definition it was unusual company for me !
towering
http://www.alumni.uts.edu.au/tower/002-a10/index.html
The article was called 'Towering 10', and yes I can be described as 'tall' when I lived in Japan; but by this definition it was unusual company for me !
towering
1. very tall; lofty
2. outstanding, as in importance or stature
3. (prenominal) very intense a towering ragehttp://www.alumni.uts.edu.au/tower/002-a10/index.html
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Abla's - food from the heart
We ventured down to Elgin Street to an institution named Abhla's -- has been around for 30 years and while there were many awards on the walls, this was not a place you came for the decor. The service was bright and friendly, and they asked us would we like to start? where there any dietary requirements etc
Then the degustation begins........the Mezze dips (wow - the Babaganous with texture and smoky flavours were amazing. Abla Amad the grand old lady herself started walking around and welcoming you into what then felt for a moment her home. Ladies Fingers, Vine Leaves, Hummus, Falafel, Makaneek, Kibbee, Tabouleh, her famous Chicken Almond Rice, Coffee and Baklawa. The food goes on and on.
By the time you are ready to leave you realise that your car is parked too close and you need much more time to walk off this meal. If I had to put this into words you feel like a well-fed Lebanese Prince and Princess.
Amazing.........and now I understand why you can't get a table and need to plan in advance.
Then the degustation begins........the Mezze dips (wow - the Babaganous with texture and smoky flavours were amazing. Abla Amad the grand old lady herself started walking around and welcoming you into what then felt for a moment her home. Ladies Fingers, Vine Leaves, Hummus, Falafel, Makaneek, Kibbee, Tabouleh, her famous Chicken Almond Rice, Coffee and Baklawa. The food goes on and on.
By the time you are ready to leave you realise that your car is parked too close and you need much more time to walk off this meal. If I had to put this into words you feel like a well-fed Lebanese Prince and Princess.
Amazing.........and now I understand why you can't get a table and need to plan in advance.
Friday, April 16, 2010
Life...Unpacking......Belongings....and our Kids visit
Life in Melbourne is good....we have been unpacking 380 boxes that have finally arrived. The apartment is finally taking shape. Fortunately most of these items have arrived in one piece, except for some few damaged items.
A great lesson in life is that 'material' items really don't matter that much. We now have an apartment full of 'material' pieces, these are all nice belongings and it is good to see these again after nearly 5 months.
But, in the end the greatest joy we have is that in Melbourne our contact with our kids through proximity and their visits has been the most rewarding part of being back in Australia. Mum is undergoing some treatments for a Tumor in her bladder, while that is not great news, however she is not in any discomfort.
We saw Mum at Easter in Sydney and when I tell her that we now live in Melbourne, I can sense her anxiety levels are much lower. While she has dementia and probably at best a 5 minute memory, in the past she remembers that I am living overseas somewhere and that I'm sure makes her more uneasy.
It is great to be home - Life is indeed very good !
A great lesson in life is that 'material' items really don't matter that much. We now have an apartment full of 'material' pieces, these are all nice belongings and it is good to see these again after nearly 5 months.
But, in the end the greatest joy we have is that in Melbourne our contact with our kids through proximity and their visits has been the most rewarding part of being back in Australia. Mum is undergoing some treatments for a Tumor in her bladder, while that is not great news, however she is not in any discomfort.
We saw Mum at Easter in Sydney and when I tell her that we now live in Melbourne, I can sense her anxiety levels are much lower. While she has dementia and probably at best a 5 minute memory, in the past she remembers that I am living overseas somewhere and that I'm sure makes her more uneasy.
It is great to be home - Life is indeed very good !
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Whrooom .......the Australian Formula 1
Uncharacteristic for me (not being a petrol head) nor for Anna (definately) we wondered out to the Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park.
First being new to this, we forgot our ear plugs. That was soon fixed with the purchase of a Survival Kit - earplugs, sunscreen and tablets for headache. Well the day was overcast - so the sunscreen was redundant but yes the plugs were mandatory.
We settled on Turn 2 on the bank and were impressed with the power of these machines. As we walked around the track area we saw different cars being tuned and prepared. This is going to sound silly, but not being petrol-heads: what impressed us were that these were not made for any degree of comfort or safety -- it was all about speed !
With our man Mark Webber gunning for 'pole' the crowd revelled in his fast laps. Lewis Hamilton who had been arrested the prior night for 'hooning' in St Kilda was not impressive on the track and struggled. Despite this the crowd seemed to not give him a hard time; which of course made alot of sense when I realised that that would be for them make him more worthy of hero worship.
To cap off the day I even took a photograph with a Driver from the Mercedes Grand Prix team who I spotted in the public area. Not exactly sure who he was but he was wearing the Petrobras uniform that Schumacher Mercedes team wears - perhaps he is a backup driver?
(Footnote: we will be back for the Sunday session - not in our original plan, but hey this is great)
First being new to this, we forgot our ear plugs. That was soon fixed with the purchase of a Survival Kit - earplugs, sunscreen and tablets for headache. Well the day was overcast - so the sunscreen was redundant but yes the plugs were mandatory.
We settled on Turn 2 on the bank and were impressed with the power of these machines. As we walked around the track area we saw different cars being tuned and prepared. This is going to sound silly, but not being petrol-heads: what impressed us were that these were not made for any degree of comfort or safety -- it was all about speed !
With our man Mark Webber gunning for 'pole' the crowd revelled in his fast laps. Lewis Hamilton who had been arrested the prior night for 'hooning' in St Kilda was not impressive on the track and struggled. Despite this the crowd seemed to not give him a hard time; which of course made alot of sense when I realised that that would be for them make him more worthy of hero worship.
To cap off the day I even took a photograph with a Driver from the Mercedes Grand Prix team who I spotted in the public area. Not exactly sure who he was but he was wearing the Petrobras uniform that Schumacher Mercedes team wears - perhaps he is a backup driver?
(Footnote: we will be back for the Sunday session - not in our original plan, but hey this is great)
Two Trobradours.....Two Friends.......Two Singer - Song Writers
After a period of 40 years Carole King and James Taylor were re-united on stage for a Trobadour Tour. This celebrates a gig they did together earlier in their careers, when you were just starting out.
It was clear early on that they were enjoying the concert as much as we were, we did not realise that this was their first concert of the global tour and the dialogue and jokes were also new to them. James Taylor's dry humour was evident and at times Carole King's reaction made it clear that this was unrehearsed.
Boy what a repetoire ! But the best moments came from the duets they sang together, often with James playing his with the distinctive sounds of his acoustic guitar. James as an artist has recorded many many songs from Carol and he is clearly a better singer, she is no slouch and can belt out a tune - at CD perfect level. She has an incredible song writing career and it is hard to believe that she is nearing 70 years old.
Effortlessly they sang songs that tugged at your heartstrings and the crowd, although older was the largest Karoke group in town. We had seen James in concert, just last year and for that event he was doing his Covers Album, but this concert was just so different. They were playing for each other and there was a deep friendship and respect for each other.
It seems cliched that "You're got a friend" is a signature song that they both recorded - they sang this together and you felt the love! So my 'hats off' to the Two Trobradours each of their songs sounded ageless and they took us on a journey as their friends !
It was clear early on that they were enjoying the concert as much as we were, we did not realise that this was their first concert of the global tour and the dialogue and jokes were also new to them. James Taylor's dry humour was evident and at times Carole King's reaction made it clear that this was unrehearsed.
Boy what a repetoire ! But the best moments came from the duets they sang together, often with James playing his with the distinctive sounds of his acoustic guitar. James as an artist has recorded many many songs from Carol and he is clearly a better singer, she is no slouch and can belt out a tune - at CD perfect level. She has an incredible song writing career and it is hard to believe that she is nearing 70 years old.
Effortlessly they sang songs that tugged at your heartstrings and the crowd, although older was the largest Karoke group in town. We had seen James in concert, just last year and for that event he was doing his Covers Album, but this concert was just so different. They were playing for each other and there was a deep friendship and respect for each other.
It seems cliched that "You're got a friend" is a signature song that they both recorded - they sang this together and you felt the love! So my 'hats off' to the Two Trobradours each of their songs sounded ageless and they took us on a journey as their friends !
Friday, March 19, 2010
Dr Craig Venter
It was my privilege to hear Dr Craig Venter speak this week. He is best known as the man you cracked the sequencing of the Genome. On reading more about him in wikipedia, Craig was a average guy who scored C and D's at school. His contribution to society is incredible: as he told his story about how they approached this task - he told his life's work in an hour. But below the blood, sweat and tears was both brillance and luck!
His work is a tricky combination of science and IT - his team does 1 million experiments each day using a
(in silica) approach which in layman's terms translates into: "on the computer".
Dr Venter also sequenced animals and moved onto sampling water from the core of the earth and has circumnavigated the world to sample water. He discovered millions of viruses and other bacteria - we have been accustomed to regard these as 'evil'. Indeed they perhaps provide the secret to our survival as a species.
The most staggering piece for me was when he discussed the engineered cell that takes carbon dioxide and converts this into methane. That discovery has incredible ramifications for all of us, if this can be commercialised and create a truly renewal energy source.
What an inspiring man........hearing him talk reminded me that we never really know what is possible!
Thanks Craig for restoring my belief in humanity.
His work is a tricky combination of science and IT - his team does 1 million experiments each day using a
(in silica) approach which in layman's terms translates into: "on the computer".
Dr Venter also sequenced animals and moved onto sampling water from the core of the earth and has circumnavigated the world to sample water. He discovered millions of viruses and other bacteria - we have been accustomed to regard these as 'evil'. Indeed they perhaps provide the secret to our survival as a species.
The most staggering piece for me was when he discussed the engineered cell that takes carbon dioxide and converts this into methane. That discovery has incredible ramifications for all of us, if this can be commercialised and create a truly renewal energy source.
What an inspiring man........hearing him talk reminded me that we never really know what is possible!
Thanks Craig for restoring my belief in humanity.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
George Michael
George was playing his last concert of a three year tour. As it would be Melbourne was the location of this event and we with VIP tickets were fortunate to be within a stone throw from George.
There was indeed little need for a seat as we and the entire ground danced and bopped during the duration of the show. George had last been in Australia 25 years ago .....so this was a rare performance. He sang his repetoire from Wham through to his contemporary pieces. Oh yes ...George can still move !!!
When George started this series of concerts his own career was not in good shape, and indeed George's life had been bathed in controversy of drugs and sex scandals. In the meantime the world has shifted and economies are generally in a unhealthy state. As George would sing: "These are the days of the open hands" (from Praying for Time), there is much that is wrong with the world and needs attention.
As George closed the evening with Careless Whispers.......the fact that he started an hour late, or that his voice is not as good as it once was - mattered.
There was indeed little need for a seat as we and the entire ground danced and bopped during the duration of the show. George had last been in Australia 25 years ago .....so this was a rare performance. He sang his repetoire from Wham through to his contemporary pieces. Oh yes ...George can still move !!!
When George started this series of concerts his own career was not in good shape, and indeed George's life had been bathed in controversy of drugs and sex scandals. In the meantime the world has shifted and economies are generally in a unhealthy state. As George would sing: "These are the days of the open hands" (from Praying for Time), there is much that is wrong with the world and needs attention.
As George closed the evening with Careless Whispers.......the fact that he started an hour late, or that his voice is not as good as it once was - mattered.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Australian Open and Kooyong
It was my pleasure this week to be in attendance at the Australian Open Tennis and witness Roger Federer in action. There were other players such as Serena Williams, but Roger was clearly in a class of his own.
The remarkable aspect of Roger's finesse game is his appearance of being "in balance", it was indeed majestic as he moved like a ballerina -- with grace and understated power. While his opponent was straining, grunting and sweating......and when Roger decided that he wanted to lift his game, he did this with ridiculous ease.
Later this week we were invited to the historic Kooyong Tennis Club by Pam & Craig Fuller. It is a gorgeous club in all aspects and has the history of being the past location of the Australian Open. When you walk through these halls and see photos of past champions: Jimmy Connors, Chris Evert, Navaratalova, Newcombe, Rosewall, Laver etc it is incredible to consider who has graced this stage.
Also at the Kooyong Tennis Club they have a cabinet with the tennis racquets on display from wood to aluminium to graphite. I find it incredible that these changes all happened during my lifetime and technology has seen a transformation from grass courts and wooden tennis racquets to hardcourts and racquets made with material that I frankly don't really comprehend. As the world re-considers the importance of being "Green" will we see a Hybrid model emerging -- Grass Courts with Renewal (non-wood) Racquets?
The remarkable aspect of Roger's finesse game is his appearance of being "in balance", it was indeed majestic as he moved like a ballerina -- with grace and understated power. While his opponent was straining, grunting and sweating......and when Roger decided that he wanted to lift his game, he did this with ridiculous ease.
Later this week we were invited to the historic Kooyong Tennis Club by Pam & Craig Fuller. It is a gorgeous club in all aspects and has the history of being the past location of the Australian Open. When you walk through these halls and see photos of past champions: Jimmy Connors, Chris Evert, Navaratalova, Newcombe, Rosewall, Laver etc it is incredible to consider who has graced this stage.
Also at the Kooyong Tennis Club they have a cabinet with the tennis racquets on display from wood to aluminium to graphite. I find it incredible that these changes all happened during my lifetime and technology has seen a transformation from grass courts and wooden tennis racquets to hardcourts and racquets made with material that I frankly don't really comprehend. As the world re-considers the importance of being "Green" will we see a Hybrid model emerging -- Grass Courts with Renewal (non-wood) Racquets?
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