Lady Liberty’s Flat – Wapping, London – Sept 27th 2005
Was invited around to Lord & Lady Lizzie Liberty St James fabulous new riverside apartment in Wapping. Apparently they bought most of the building when it was new and rent them out. Last month one became available and so they left the country residence in Rye & moved to town. Mikey & I were invited around to play a game of Monopoly. Mikey having bought the “Royal Mint Version” which apparently cost £600 new but he picked it up for a bargain on Ebay. Only Mikey couldn’t be bothered to go home and collect it so we played “Fools & Horses” the board game. I was Rodney! I know a plonker.
Quiet evening in and so ended up back at the Chateux Borchard gone midnight. How comes quiet nights still end being such late nights?
Sept 28th 2005 – Essex, England
Woke to a voice mail flashing away on my mobile phone from Optimum films. The documentary I was part of for Sky One will be airing on Monday 3rd October at 2100. Suddenly I feel more nervous now than I did when I made the blooming thing. Well a documentary on Viagra use in London is hardly something you want the parents watching is it? I have no idea what to expect and with such little advanced notice where will I get a Red Carpet from in time for my television premier?
Thursday, September 29, 2005
Wednesday, September 28, 2005
Gaydar Radio Rocks
Essex – 27th September 2005
Very quiet weekend in Essex. Didn’t even go into London once. Well its not every weekend that I have the House to myself (parents away) so I entertained for the weekend.
Spent all day yesterday being a real vegetable. Lazy git (Lucky Bitch). Made an appointment to join a local gym! Got to get fit for summer and why not have a Head Start of just 9 Months! Flat Stomach here I come.
After seeing how buffed up Y’all Rob was in Vegas Im determined to get back to my shape of two years ago…. But maybe the gym can wait till tomorrow.
Spoke live on the Radio today. http://www.gaydarradio.com/ or Channel 908 on Sky plus on DAB Digital Radio in Brighton & London. It's my favourite station, awesome music and we often have a laugh in the chat room. Come join us!
Be sure to check out Simon Le Vans from 1400 – 1800 and Neil Sexton 1800 – 2200 All times are UK! Neil does an awesome all request show from 1800 – 1900 so send yours in to neil@gaydarradio.com
And if you’d like a 3 some just send your fave three tunes (Camp as possible for Simons Show) to Simon@gaydarradio.com The threesome airs daily at 430 and these are my top two shows. Simon & Neil Rock.
Well enough being a Gaydarradio Ambassador – I need to do some work. Tara for now.
Very quiet weekend in Essex. Didn’t even go into London once. Well its not every weekend that I have the House to myself (parents away) so I entertained for the weekend.
Spent all day yesterday being a real vegetable. Lazy git (Lucky Bitch). Made an appointment to join a local gym! Got to get fit for summer and why not have a Head Start of just 9 Months! Flat Stomach here I come.
After seeing how buffed up Y’all Rob was in Vegas Im determined to get back to my shape of two years ago…. But maybe the gym can wait till tomorrow.
Spoke live on the Radio today. http://www.gaydarradio.com/ or Channel 908 on Sky plus on DAB Digital Radio in Brighton & London. It's my favourite station, awesome music and we often have a laugh in the chat room. Come join us!
Be sure to check out Simon Le Vans from 1400 – 1800 and Neil Sexton 1800 – 2200 All times are UK! Neil does an awesome all request show from 1800 – 1900 so send yours in to neil@gaydarradio.com
And if you’d like a 3 some just send your fave three tunes (Camp as possible for Simons Show) to Simon@gaydarradio.com The threesome airs daily at 430 and these are my top two shows. Simon & Neil Rock.
Well enough being a Gaydarradio Ambassador – I need to do some work. Tara for now.
Tuesday, September 27, 2005
Gaydar Radio Rocks!
Essex – 27th September 2005
Very quiet weekend in Essex. Didn’t even go into London once. Well its not every weekend that I have the House to myself (parents away) so I entertained for the weekend.
Spent all day yesterday being a real vegetable. Lazy git (Lucky Bitch). Made an appointment to join a local gym! Got to get fit for summer and why not have a Head Start of just 9 Months! Flat Stomach here I come.
After seeing how buffed up Y’all Rob was in Vegas Im determined to get back to my shape of two years ago…. But maybe the gym can wait till tomorrow.
Spoke live on the Radio today. www.gaydarradio.com or Channel 908 on Sky plus on DAB Digital Radio in Brighton & London. It my favourite station, awesome music and we often have a laugh in the chat room.
Be sure to check out Simon Le Vans from 1400 – 1800 and Neil Sexton 1800 – 2200 All times are UK! Neil does an awesome all request show from 1800 – 1900 so send yours in to Neil@gaydarradio.com
And if you’d like a 3 some just send your fave three tunes (Camp as possible for Simons Show) to Simon@gaydarradio.com The threesome airs daily at 430 and these are my top two shows. Simon & Neil Rock.
Well enough being a Gaydarradio Ambassador – I need to do some work. Tara for now.
Very quiet weekend in Essex. Didn’t even go into London once. Well its not every weekend that I have the House to myself (parents away) so I entertained for the weekend.
Spent all day yesterday being a real vegetable. Lazy git (Lucky Bitch). Made an appointment to join a local gym! Got to get fit for summer and why not have a Head Start of just 9 Months! Flat Stomach here I come.
After seeing how buffed up Y’all Rob was in Vegas Im determined to get back to my shape of two years ago…. But maybe the gym can wait till tomorrow.
Spoke live on the Radio today. www.gaydarradio.com or Channel 908 on Sky plus on DAB Digital Radio in Brighton & London. It my favourite station, awesome music and we often have a laugh in the chat room.
Be sure to check out Simon Le Vans from 1400 – 1800 and Neil Sexton 1800 – 2200 All times are UK! Neil does an awesome all request show from 1800 – 1900 so send yours in to Neil@gaydarradio.com
And if you’d like a 3 some just send your fave three tunes (Camp as possible for Simons Show) to Simon@gaydarradio.com The threesome airs daily at 430 and these are my top two shows. Simon & Neil Rock.
Well enough being a Gaydarradio Ambassador – I need to do some work. Tara for now.
Sunday, September 18, 2005
Lucky Bitches Sept 17th
Saturday 17th September 2005
All I can san say is thank you to a True Friend. Someone whom you can rely on to be there for . I know I’ve had my share of gits that have used me for what they can. But Lee, You are a friend, a gentlemen, a star and I love ya. And if that aint enough well Ill accent it Lee’. Rarely have I enjoyed an evening in so much. Lord of the rings was our entertainment (Besides the pools, Jacuzzis, steam rooms etc downstairs, even us lucky bitches like a night in just enjoying a bottle of wine or two and a DVD. Just mind the Hole. K Hole that is! Woops Fell right in, but you got to know what it means to understand it. And that’s one of the reasons I love Lee so much. His genuine, a True friend and we’ve been there for each other. Maybe neither can remember the time but we have. And never a distance in time or space can lesson a friendship that is sealed at the heart.
All I can san say is thank you to a True Friend. Someone whom you can rely on to be there for . I know I’ve had my share of gits that have used me for what they can. But Lee, You are a friend, a gentlemen, a star and I love ya. And if that aint enough well Ill accent it Lee’. Rarely have I enjoyed an evening in so much. Lord of the rings was our entertainment (Besides the pools, Jacuzzis, steam rooms etc downstairs, even us lucky bitches like a night in just enjoying a bottle of wine or two and a DVD. Just mind the Hole. K Hole that is! Woops Fell right in, but you got to know what it means to understand it. And that’s one of the reasons I love Lee so much. His genuine, a True friend and we’ve been there for each other. Maybe neither can remember the time but we have. And never a distance in time or space can lesson a friendship that is sealed at the heart.
Lucky Bitches Sept 16
Friday 16th September 2005 – London England
Well I guess the jet lag got the better of me in the end. After spending an hour on the phone chatting to a potential boyfriend and finishing a bottle of wine off I went to bed around 130am. Waking up at around 1300 ! Guess that was my body clock getting back into the swing of things. That meant I had to rush around to get ready and make my appointment at the office at 1500. Left the office at 2000 and headed into town to meet Marcello.
I was going to meet him at Waterloo but he called on the way and suggested that we meet in Clapham so I parked up and made my way to the Kazbar. Literally 30 seconds into the door I bump into Scotty. Which really made my day. We chatted for a while and his trying to talk me into going to Action tomorrow evening. I’m not sure. I had arranged with Lee to go back to the house and enjoy the “Kensington Facilities” (Lucky Bitches) and I guess it was no surprise to hear that Scott already knew this. Gossip flies around London faster than anywhere else I have ever known.
Had dinner with Marcello & went back to the Kazbar for one last drink. Scott was still there and continued his will to get me to go to Action. We will see. Watch this space as they say.
As we left Scotty begged a lift to Lime house and then Marcello started and I had to take him to the White Swan. I was looking forward to a quiet nice night in and end up trekking half way across town.
The Swan was its usual drab self but with the prospects of Pam Ann we awaited with baited breath. Ok, I’ve seen her do a brief stint at the Fridge but it was so drole. And judging by the crowd knowing exactly what she was going to say next I am guessing that the act doesn’t change much week to week. Which brings me to think of the Royal Vauxhall Tavern who’s beloved presence goes up for sale this coming Tuesday by Auction. How sad it will be to see her closed or sold off for commercial gain. Still all good things come to an end and I did have some awesome times there when I was a lucky bitch and lived in the heart of it all in Vauxhall.
Well I guess the jet lag got the better of me in the end. After spending an hour on the phone chatting to a potential boyfriend and finishing a bottle of wine off I went to bed around 130am. Waking up at around 1300 ! Guess that was my body clock getting back into the swing of things. That meant I had to rush around to get ready and make my appointment at the office at 1500. Left the office at 2000 and headed into town to meet Marcello.
I was going to meet him at Waterloo but he called on the way and suggested that we meet in Clapham so I parked up and made my way to the Kazbar. Literally 30 seconds into the door I bump into Scotty. Which really made my day. We chatted for a while and his trying to talk me into going to Action tomorrow evening. I’m not sure. I had arranged with Lee to go back to the house and enjoy the “Kensington Facilities” (Lucky Bitches) and I guess it was no surprise to hear that Scott already knew this. Gossip flies around London faster than anywhere else I have ever known.
Had dinner with Marcello & went back to the Kazbar for one last drink. Scott was still there and continued his will to get me to go to Action. We will see. Watch this space as they say.
As we left Scotty begged a lift to Lime house and then Marcello started and I had to take him to the White Swan. I was looking forward to a quiet nice night in and end up trekking half way across town.
The Swan was its usual drab self but with the prospects of Pam Ann we awaited with baited breath. Ok, I’ve seen her do a brief stint at the Fridge but it was so drole. And judging by the crowd knowing exactly what she was going to say next I am guessing that the act doesn’t change much week to week. Which brings me to think of the Royal Vauxhall Tavern who’s beloved presence goes up for sale this coming Tuesday by Auction. How sad it will be to see her closed or sold off for commercial gain. Still all good things come to an end and I did have some awesome times there when I was a lucky bitch and lived in the heart of it all in Vauxhall.
Thursday, September 15, 2005
Lucky Bitches - Sept 11th & 12th 2005
September 11th 2005 Salt Lake City – Utah
Sat in Departure Lounge. Isnt Wireless internet great. I can be sat here in the lounge at the gate and completely in touch with the world. Mind you, is that really such a good thing? Who can say. I guess as long as work cant get in touch with me it’s a good thing.
So a Utah Wedding. Interesting. Its my first wedding with no Alcohol. Very family orientated. Its true what they say, you could so easily crash a wedding party. We fed a massive 300 people and I spent most of the day in the kitchen throwing platters of food together and having to sneak down to my bedroom in the basement for the odd swig of bear. It is true, you can not drink in Utah. You can buy Bear and Alcopops at a supermarket but if you want wine or anything else stronger it’s a state licenced liquor store.
My friend Janet thinks I am an alcoholic but hey, I’m on Holiday so I can enjoy a drink or two right?
Roll on Vegas where the drink is free Flowing.
11:05 AM – Bugger, Flights Delayed.
11th September 2005 – Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
Landed (Late) and made our way directly to the Mandalay Bay,(Lucky Bitches). Janet has always said that it has the best pool in all of Vegas despite the Travel Channel saying that the Hard Rock Hotel has the best one. Naturally Janet was right and its now official, Mandalay Bay is the official Vegas Residence of Janet & I on on now 5th Annual Vegas Pilgrimage.
We checked in, ditched the suitcases, changed into swimwear and made our way down to “Beach Level” from our room high up on the 30th Floor above the lights of the Vegas Strip. With a room key each in Hand we presented the keys to the hostess at the gate of the pool area. Being the nicest pool in Vegas it is reserved for only the “Lucky Bitches” that have paid for the privilege. We were given towels and found ourselves loungers as we desperately searched for our nearest cocktail waitress. A welcome to Vegas Margarita was desperately called for.
We sat, We soaked the rays, we sipped the cocktails, we watched the bodies beautiful. Why American boys have to shave their legs I cant imagine? Must be a trend. Maybe they wonder why I am wearing a yellow Lance Armstrong Wristband for Charity? But shave their legs? Oh well, Whatever.
We sat out till our skins were glowing nicely and we were ready to shower and eat and made our way to one of two necessary restaurants that are now compulsive on any pilgrimage to Vegas. Quarks. Yes Quarks, as in Deep Space Nine for any Trekkies out there. At the Las Vegas Hilton they have a restaurant away from Earth called Quarks where we mixed with both Ferengay and Klingons and sipped away on our golf ball sized cocktail called a “Whorpe Core Breach”. It didn’t taste alcoholic, didn’t look it but certainly had a potent kick.
As we made our way back to the hotel via the monorail I felt rather sloshed. But at the ripe old age of 32 and Diva J being (a very modest Age also) we felt that we were really in Vegas to Chill and not push ourselves and as such by 2230 we were in our room and tucking up ready for bed J We felt a little guilty at this initially but soon changed our minds when we switched channels on the Television and were greated with the Brad Pitt Version of Oceans Eleven. What a perfect Movie to watch while in Vegas.
Goodnight X
September 12th 2005 – Las Vegas
Plan was to be awake at 0800 and at the pool by nine. Sadly we didn’t wake up until 1000 so with that out of the window said Sod it and made our way to the restaurant for a nice healthy (NOT) Eggs Benedict Breakfast. Well it is my favourite breakfast.
Finally made it to the pool side by 1100. Today we had a far better spot right on the main beach. That’s right, Beach. Mandalay has a Beach with Wave Pool & Lazy River. J was certainly right. They bring your drinks to you as we bathed in 35 degrees (95F) heat. J has a session booked at the Hotel Spa at 1300 so I sat out and soaked. Why can the weather not be like this at home? Right off to read another chunck of Harry Potter & the Half Blood Prince
Sat in Departure Lounge. Isnt Wireless internet great. I can be sat here in the lounge at the gate and completely in touch with the world. Mind you, is that really such a good thing? Who can say. I guess as long as work cant get in touch with me it’s a good thing.
So a Utah Wedding. Interesting. Its my first wedding with no Alcohol. Very family orientated. Its true what they say, you could so easily crash a wedding party. We fed a massive 300 people and I spent most of the day in the kitchen throwing platters of food together and having to sneak down to my bedroom in the basement for the odd swig of bear. It is true, you can not drink in Utah. You can buy Bear and Alcopops at a supermarket but if you want wine or anything else stronger it’s a state licenced liquor store.
My friend Janet thinks I am an alcoholic but hey, I’m on Holiday so I can enjoy a drink or two right?
Roll on Vegas where the drink is free Flowing.
11:05 AM – Bugger, Flights Delayed.
11th September 2005 – Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
Landed (Late) and made our way directly to the Mandalay Bay,(Lucky Bitches). Janet has always said that it has the best pool in all of Vegas despite the Travel Channel saying that the Hard Rock Hotel has the best one. Naturally Janet was right and its now official, Mandalay Bay is the official Vegas Residence of Janet & I on on now 5th Annual Vegas Pilgrimage.
We checked in, ditched the suitcases, changed into swimwear and made our way down to “Beach Level” from our room high up on the 30th Floor above the lights of the Vegas Strip. With a room key each in Hand we presented the keys to the hostess at the gate of the pool area. Being the nicest pool in Vegas it is reserved for only the “Lucky Bitches” that have paid for the privilege. We were given towels and found ourselves loungers as we desperately searched for our nearest cocktail waitress. A welcome to Vegas Margarita was desperately called for.
We sat, We soaked the rays, we sipped the cocktails, we watched the bodies beautiful. Why American boys have to shave their legs I cant imagine? Must be a trend. Maybe they wonder why I am wearing a yellow Lance Armstrong Wristband for Charity? But shave their legs? Oh well, Whatever.
We sat out till our skins were glowing nicely and we were ready to shower and eat and made our way to one of two necessary restaurants that are now compulsive on any pilgrimage to Vegas. Quarks. Yes Quarks, as in Deep Space Nine for any Trekkies out there. At the Las Vegas Hilton they have a restaurant away from Earth called Quarks where we mixed with both Ferengay and Klingons and sipped away on our golf ball sized cocktail called a “Whorpe Core Breach”. It didn’t taste alcoholic, didn’t look it but certainly had a potent kick.
As we made our way back to the hotel via the monorail I felt rather sloshed. But at the ripe old age of 32 and Diva J being (a very modest Age also) we felt that we were really in Vegas to Chill and not push ourselves and as such by 2230 we were in our room and tucking up ready for bed J We felt a little guilty at this initially but soon changed our minds when we switched channels on the Television and were greated with the Brad Pitt Version of Oceans Eleven. What a perfect Movie to watch while in Vegas.
Goodnight X
September 12th 2005 – Las Vegas
Plan was to be awake at 0800 and at the pool by nine. Sadly we didn’t wake up until 1000 so with that out of the window said Sod it and made our way to the restaurant for a nice healthy (NOT) Eggs Benedict Breakfast. Well it is my favourite breakfast.
Finally made it to the pool side by 1100. Today we had a far better spot right on the main beach. That’s right, Beach. Mandalay has a Beach with Wave Pool & Lazy River. J was certainly right. They bring your drinks to you as we bathed in 35 degrees (95F) heat. J has a session booked at the Hotel Spa at 1300 so I sat out and soaked. Why can the weather not be like this at home? Right off to read another chunck of Harry Potter & the Half Blood Prince
Lucky Bitches The Begining
Lucky Bitches
By Neil Borchard Borchard
July 23rd 2003 – Big Gay Out I dedicate these writings, adventures & feelings to you.
Following the London Suicide bombings on 7/7 it was somewhat with apprehension that I boarded a train at Stockwell. Not only for the fact that there had been the awful destruction of so many innocent lives but also for the sad fact that just a week earlier at this very station an innocent 23 year old Brazilian boy was killed by our own police force. Killed by five deadly bullets to the head. Sure he ran, sure they shouted to him to stop, but if you were on an expired visa and faced being deported back to a land of poverty & crime (I’ve been to Rio. It’s a city where the rich shop at the same grocery stores as the poor. Where they have to result to mugging to afford to eat while the rich live in their condo’s and houses with Maids and Concierge). I’m not surprised he didn’t want to go back. But to be shot not once but five times in the head! Of course I can understand how the police felt, After 4 bombs and then four failed bombings it’s a world gone mad. Anyone running away with a bag or heavy overcoat could mean the death of even more innocent people. So with jubilance I entered the Tube and took the Train up towards Finsbury Park.
The Platforms deserted for 1400 on a Saturday afternoon and an air of silence lingering. You could but feel apprehension and slightly uneasy.
Of course the Victoria line journey was, fast and as we took the short journey North East the carriages filled with more and more gay looking people. This is not an insult. After all, it was July 23rd and Host day to Big Gay Out. London’s second Annual Big Gay Festival that sprung up as a commercial enterprise following the collapse of Pride several years ago. And that disastrous year where we walked miles to Finsbury park.
I had arranged to meet my good friend Kenton at Finsbury Park at 1500 and he arrived not long after feeling both as shaky and nerve ridden from the tube as I did. A weird feeling considering the thousands of times over the past few years we have taken underground journeys.
So a quick beer in a local bar had us less shaky and ready to make our way into the park.
The initial police presence was obviously. Illuminous Metropolitan Police Jackets lines the entrance. A sniffer dog alongside. Whether this was to sniff for drugs or explosive devices no one was really sure. But just having them there made everyone feel somewhat more at ease.
Unlike previous years there was hardly any line, the organisation within the park was incredible, multiple dance tents including our favourite the Terradome presented by DTPM and Trade. I met with Lee Holt, Chris Ellen, Ian and a variety of lees Police Officer friends and we boogied the day away. Making out way between Orange, Radio One, the Tropical Island, David Hasselhoff’s enchanted Forest and for some reason one of our favourite stops, Toilet. A huge florescent pink themed toilet zone housing literally hundreds of toilets meaning that you hardly ever had to stand in a line.
We boogied; we wandered and then had a blast. Sorry lads, those of you that said it’s not worth £28 to get in. It was worth £28. We had one of the best days out of the year and you would easily spend that sort of money on a club on New Years or Pride weekend.
As ten pm approached as is always the way, the gods turned against us and the clouds that had been darkening with their imminence throughout the day opened up and started to soak us revellers. It being ten pm and the dance tents closed we were not going to let it put a damper on our day and decided it was time to start making our way to the tube. Rode to Green Park and then Jumped into Taxis to Lees little Pad in Kensington.
July 23rd & July 24th 2005 – Hyde Park (a Fabulous House in Kensignton)
Have you ever wondered how the other half live? The lucky few multi multi millionaires? I’ve been lucky in my years (Lucky Bitch) to have had the opportunity to stay in some of the most exclusive houses ever. From Lord Wrexhams £40,000,000 Mansion Tyntesfield House near Bristol (Now owned by the National Trust) To Robert C De Milles House in West Hollywood.
Lee is a Butler. Having previously worked by appointment to Her Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth & the royals. Served at both at Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle and served on the Royal Yacht Britannia he is now Butler to an Arab Sheikh in Kensington. I say is, he is officially still staff. The Sheik has since moved back to his homeland and the house (if I dare call it a house) is presently on the market and up for sale.
He is still in service letting Selling Agents & prospective Buyers around the house. The house is a five story Georgian Structure that has earlier this year gone through a partial refurbishment. They must have spent millions on it on the Marble designed floorings alone. Her Ladyship and his Lordship both have separate Bedrooms both with Ensuite facilities. Her walk in wardrobe is bigger than some flats but if you imagine an Accessorize shop it was about the same size. The bathroom was not much smaller with sinks, Bidet and a shower including full floor to Ceiling Marble in every bathroom.
To the side if a four story Servants Quarters with Bedrooms, staff offices & in the basement the entertainment rooms. A Mosaic pool with jets to exercise against, Hot Tub, Steam room, gymnasium & Bar. Most of the house was empty of furniture but Lee keeps the pool and spa all in pristine condition and ready to use at short notice.
Of course leaving a park after a full day of partying the first thing you want to do is jump in a pool, steam and chill off. So it was with much reluctance that we took lee up on his offer and went back to Kensington to chill out.
It’s my third visit now. I had the full tour the first time. Have been back after a night at Action and now again after Big Gay Out. To say we feel lucky to use it is an understatement. Most people would never even get to see what the inside of such a house is like let alone get to stay over weekend after weekend. Ces’t la vie.
Without sending snobbish, I like to think its not so much that one falls into these opportunities by chance (Lucky Bitch) but that one creates these opportunities for oneself. After all I only got to go because I know Lee. Lee is one of my dear friends we surround ourselves with people that are dear to us and what goes around comes around. As I grew up I used to always say that “Money is an Attitude” & “You are what you act”. You don’t have to be a Millionaire to live like you do. Pretend you are, half of its in your head. I’ve stayed in many millionaires’ homes in my lifetime always as an invited guest. How many Millionaires do you know? I know over ten. Why? Because I just mix with them. I don’t have their means or funds but I certainly know how to party. I act like I belong to the clan, the fraternity. And as such do. They know I cant afford the things they can and half of the time offer to pay. Of course it would be rude to accept, except on rare occasions. Ok rare occasions and birthdays and events and every summer and well, it would be rude not too. After all, if they have the money and you don’t its no fun for them to do these things on their own is it?
So a huge Thank you to Lee who is not only gorgeous but a lovely guy with it. Thank you for the opportunity to share your wonderful home. For being a dear friend and for helping me to live my life to the fullest I can.
05 August 2005 - Brighton Pride
To me Brighton Pride is the event of the year on the gay calendar. Its more than just a day out it’s a day of true community spirit. This was my 7th consecutive year of going and as of the past four years I have done all that I can to ensure that I didn’t class with any international trips I had booked up. The usual deal is that Mark, Richard and I would meet at London Bridge and get a train down to the coast as close to 0800 as possible.
But now that I no longer live in the Smog getting to London Bridge for that hour would mean a 0500 start so with just two weeks to go I logged on to Lastminute.com and managed to find a real bargain. The Hilton Metrolpole on the sea front, Luxury Deluxe room for just £344 for Friday to Sunday stay. With the schedule I have had with work I decided it was time to take the bull by the ears and just grabbed my visa and it was mine. All mine.
So I took a half-day off on Friday and headed down to the cost arriving to an excited city by 1600. I’ve never been on the Friday night before and the city had an atmosphere about it.
I unpacked my bits and headed down to meet my friend Stuart at doctor Brighton’s for a drink or two. Of course a drink or two ended up with drinks back at his house. His house being a Georgian 5 storey gorgeous fabulous sea viewed traditional period House. (Lucky Bitches). So we chilled, drank wine and eventually got around to eating a couple of slices of Pizza before I was so exhausted & half cut that I made my way back to my hotel for an early night.
I must have been drunk as apparently I had a conversation with my friend Joffrey that I have absolutely no recollection of whatsoever. Oh well.
Saturday morning came around far to quickly and before I knew it I was dressed and Mark & Richard were meeting me for our traditional Champagne pre Pride Brunch. This year we did the full English in the lanes followed a bottle of Champagne in the park in the city centre awaiting the parade coming through. There is something magical about the Parade in Brighton. It always seems to me that the whole city comes out. Its not Gay Pride its Brighton Pride. Everyone lines the streets and people are hanging out of the windows like a New York City Ticker Tape Parade.
It felt quite naughty drinking from the bottle knowing that the city now had a new no alcohol on the streets Bi Law. Balls to that we thought and chilled back with our Verve Cliquet.
The Parade began in a mixed weather environment. Mainly cloudy and a little chilly with the prospect of the sun breaking through at any minute. Having enjoyed two glorious years in 2004 & 2003 we awaited a downpour like the complete wash out of 2002 with baited breath.
The rain thankfully never came but the collection of Floats and street performers weaved their way up the streets from the sea front to Preston Park. We wearily followed in their wake making the several mile walk on foot with the other 120,000 revealers that made it to the Celebration that day.
Arriving in the park Richard decided he needed his pre pride Poo. I know, Too much information, but be that as it may here we were in a line of over 30 people deep at the beginning of the event trying to get into one of the handful of chemical loos they had lining the parks edges.
The line took at least 30 minutes to get to the front of so we opened our second bottle of champagne sharing with a couple of lesbians who seemed only too happy to have a swig while we took the opportunity to sneakily jump even further ahead in the queue while they drank! J What sneaky things we are.
Mark & Richard decided they wanted to make their way straight to Wild Fruit for a day of dancing but still weary from the drinking on the previous evening I decided a walk around the park was more my thing. I don’t understand it myself, I felt practically hung over and all that I had was maybe 2 glasses of wine. Ok 3. 4? Maybe more. Oh who can say? It seemed like one, OK? Well it did yesterday. Today it felt more like 3 bottles and I needed rest. But Mark and Richard agreed it was no surprise I was drained with the gruelling work schedule I have been on travelling with work over the past three months.
So I left Wild fruit, found a bathroom for a quick pee. Thank heavens for Urinals. The line by now for a Chemical Loo was in excess of an hour. As thousands more made their way into the park. I wandered to the Market to try and escape the growing crowd. Not being able to move I sent a number of texts to try and find friends that I knew were somewhere in the park. Alex came to the rescue announcing that he was naturally in the VIP area directly in front of the Gaydar Radio stage. I made my way through the crowds bumping into Stuey, Kevin & Adam in the process.
Calling Alex on my arrival he and Mikey great me at the outer perimeter as Alex reminds everyone and me that you have to be a VIP to get in and he put the V in VIP! Whatever floats your boat dear! LOL.
Mikey was ready to go and boogie and so made his way to Wild Fruit passing me a wrist band giving me access to the royal enclosure. We really know how to work the system don’t we?
So Alex (Patsie) and I wandered around the market and across the park growing more and more exhausted till we settled back into the VIP area to enjoy a large and strong pint of Pimms. Well it’s the taste of summer after all. Before we knew it the sun had burst through and we’d had a Vodka Jelly and made our way to the Revenge tent for the highlight of the cabaret Tent, the one and only Dame Edna Experience. Unless your from Stockwell when its Dean!
If ever Edna (Jonathan) did a Greatest Hits Tour this was it. He performed better than I have ever seen before in my life. Starting as always with Karen Carpenters and including Sweet Dreams, Perfect Day, Bohemian Rhapsody, Don’t let along a cloud to rain on my Parade and many more. It was to me the highlight of the day leaving us all laughing and crying with tears of joy. You’d begin to think we were all a right bunch of poofs wouldn’t you?
Wednesday 24th August 2005 - Reunited with Scottie
I have a few friends in the world, whom I may only see once in a blue moon. Some live thousands of miles away in foreign lands others live less than 5 minutes drive. Yet our lifestyles and preoccupation with lovers and work and family commitments means we rarely get to meet. There are a handful of friends I see all of the time and love to bits. Richard & Mark who are more like family than friends. And then there are the good old friends I have known since I moved to London. Friends that never ask for anything but love you for who you are. Scott is one of these friends. Much like Lee a friend whom I was introduced to through other friends. I see them out and about and are always invited to the yearly parties. But Scott and I had not seen each other since Big Gay Out 2004. Sadly he and Lee having been a loving couple for over 4 years separated in the early part of this year. Scott was tied up with work, (His a cop) and
TBC
Bloody Kids
Ok, so I am single and don’t ever intend on having Children. Sure there is a possibility that one day if things work Dusan and I, I do have a vision. A vision of a future with the man I let get away. And I don’t see there never being a possibility of having kids. I mean, he could father them and his a real hunk so the child would look gorgeous but that would mean that one of us is higher up in the father ship than the other. Not even to mention the fact that we would need a mother to bring the child into the world. So for now, I am childless, partner less and as over the years my friends have all gotten married and for the most part had children, children just are not part of my life. For now at least. And all the time that I am a bachelor, loveless with no one else to answer to but my friends & I.
So today I find myself sat on a Boeing 747 – 400 Series Jumbo set bound westward towards San Francisco on my summer vacation. Despite the fact that just this February past I swore I would never fly in the economy cabin again I find myself sat in set 34D. An aisle seat is my only blessing as we are packed into an aerodynamic man made machine that is somehow soaring at 35000 feet towards my destination.
We are packed in ten wide in rows of three then four then three. The pour bastards in the middle seats have arms to deal with on either side and so I can at least enjoy the fact that I can get up whenever I want to and can stretch my legs into the aisle on occasions wary of a speeding cabin member and a half ton trolley cart ready to smash into my knee cap or hit me on my side.
The packed cabin has way too many children for my taste. If I had a chance to change aviation for the better the first rule I would pass is that certain flights of the week are strictly “Children Free”.
Firstly the little brats seem to take priority on getting bulkhead seats. Not that that really bothers me all that much. Who really wants to sit with their feet against a wall a foot in front of you? Its like being sat in the front row of the royal circle at the Dominium. You may have a fantastic view but there is bugger all legroom. So let them have their bulkhead seats, but if they have to have the bulkhead then make them have it for the reason given. So the kids can sleep in the Air Cots provided by the airline. Instead the row at the front of my section has 3 adults and twins that can barley be 2 years of age. They have done nothing but scream and shout for the past four hours and their only guardian, a man, often leaves one to go change the messy bottom of the other. To their left there are kids of about the ages 4 & 6 that seem to think that the aisle is some sort of Adventure Playground. Running up and down with such force that every third time they hit someone’s arm or trip on someone’s leg, which ends in tears. So we have the Twins Screaming in Row One and kids running up the aisle. Just when I thought it couldn’t get much worse there is a beacon of light at the end of the tunnel or by the galley at least as I see a man standing and struggling to his feet. Too far back to be of any assistance I watch as he reaches for the overhead compartment and
Feels his way for the latch. He finds it within seconds and reaches in for his bag. I watched intensely at this mans courage. To be flying such a distance and totally blind. He seamlessly found what he was looking for, felt his way for the headrest and proceeded back up the aisle to the washrooms purely by feel. I suddenly had a wave of awe at this mans courage and realise once again that despite my ailments I am lucky to have all my functioning body parts thank the Lord.
And so I stopped watching the kids and watched this man and thanked him for showing me how self centred I can be. Sorry World. I try not to. Sometimes you get caught up in the drama and emotion of your own current situation you forget to use your God given eyes and look beyond your own problems to experience the world. A Life waiting to be discovered.
I certainly having watched my dear grandmother Hilda Smyth who’s body slowly shut down on her and sadly passed away on August 7th of this year. Nan was of sound mind right till the very end. Even trying to fool the Doctors that she was better in Health than she clearly was. It was the hardest thing I have ever seen watching her get weaker and weaker. My Mother holding a constant vigil by her bedside. Only leaving to come home and change or eat.
Nan would say how she was ready to go but like the phrase says its like watching paint dry. She is at peace now and after 19 years a Widow is now back with Granddad Arthur united once more.
I vowed as I sat in that chair and talked to her (Having to shout as hearing had virtually left her too) that I would not sit and let my life pass me by. This trip to the USA is likely to be one of my very last. Not because I don’t enjoy it anymore but that I’ve been there, done that. I have yet to see more of South America and the whole of the Asian, Australasian & African Continents.
8th SEPTEMBER 2005 – SAN FRANCISCO USA
San Francisco will always be one of my favourite cities in the world but with its amazing scenery and landscaping. A climate that hardly ever changes and is nearly always 60 degrees (17 ish Celsius).
But my real reason for coming this year was to see one of my dearest and most fabulous friends in all of the world, Ed Fonteca. The sweetest dearest San Franciscan I know.
As it was a long holiday weekend we got up early (Jet lag and they always get up early in the US) and went down the Castro for coffee at Peets Coffee bar. Yummy a Vanilla Latte. Just what I needed to kick start the day. Then it was off to change and a fabulous Brunch with friends of Ed’s from his school days in Seattle. It was my favourite, Eggs Benedict! Then having stuffed our faces Ed took us for a spin in his brand new BMW with black leather interior and White Shinny Exterior. We ended up downtown and did all of the big name stores. I thought I was a keen shopper but Ed beats me hands down. We went into Gucci, Tiffany, Saks of 5rth Avenue, Nieman Marcus & Burberry to say but a few. I tried to tell him that Burberry was so last season and that theses days only a Chav would wear it but would he listen? No, in Ed’s words its imported and that means its Fabulous. Hmm think I met someone who says the word Fabulous as much as I do.
By 1400 we were all starving again. Must be the cooler San Franciscan air or something. So we went into Nieman Marcus & had lunch in their Fabulous Rotunda Restaurant. Nieman Marcus sits on the Lower Right hand corner of the famous Union Square, which is bordered by famous shops and landmarks. As we sat and dinned on fine wines & appetizers Ed pointed out how lucky we are (Lucky Bitches). Dining here while in this same very country in the State of Louisiana New Orleans has been virtually destroyed. It was hard to believe that as we looked out of the window into Union Square a city of the same size and the same age (Old) as San Francisco could have been totally destroyed as it had. We all took a moment to reflect and realised how lucky we are for the blessings that we received. This led into a full blown conversation on what went wrong and was it that the only people that were left are the ones that could not afford to leave? Deep & Meaningfull conversation for day one of the trip.
Having shopped till we dropped on the 3rd anniversary of knowing Ed we decided to spend the Labour Day doing something different. The weather was a fabulous 70’ degrees (F) with clear skies over the while of the city.
We rented bicycles from Blazing Saddles down on Fisherman’s Wharf and decided to bike across the Golden Gate Bridge. It was perfect weather for it. So I rode the Muni (That’s the San Francisco Public Transportation Network of Trams, Trollys, Buses & Cable Cars) down to the Wharf. Totally blond I completely miss understood what Ed had told me and thought he said take it all the way to the end. Knowing that the Underground Car goes from his place in Castro to Embarcadero. I looked at the maps of the quays down on the wharf. I was to meet the boys at Number 41 and presently I was at number……..1! Oh great, so a galf an hour walk later I arrive a little sweaty from the walking but got to take some fabulous photos of things like Fishermans Wharf & The Coit Tower.
So I rented a Bike and the boys had their own and off we headed toward Golden Gate Park. On our bikes for a gentle ride. Gentle. Who were they trying to kid. “Come on” they said, “Well go for a nice ride across the bridge”. Well the bridge I was fine with, I didn’t realise we had to go up two enormous hills to get there. Now I know I have not been to the gym of late and that I am not the fittest person anymore but for goodness sake, I couldn’t even make it up the hills. I was panting and sweating. Memo to me, your joining a gym when you get home.
So I kicked and I argued but once we got to the other side of the bridge it was the most awesome view of San Francisco that I have ever seen. And having done the hard part it is all down hill to the little town of Scausilito which was a fabulous fun ride down what seemed like a Monte Carlo Street Rally. Weeeeeeeee. Was such fun. And we celebrated, My treat, with a Fish Lunch in the sun on the quayside and Napa Valley Champagne to wash it all down with. Fabulous Lucky Bitches.
A huge thank you to Ed & Jason for forcing me off my fat butt and for doing something that was so much fun even if I did moan. 3 days on and my bum is still sore from the ride. But I do have fabulous photo’s.! Yeah.
Right now sat in the Delta First Class lounge waiting to take my flight to Salt Lake City. Best have one last Bloody Mary. Don’t think there will be much alcohol in Utah.
How can Utah people be lucky Bitches without booze? Whatever!
By Neil Borchard Borchard
July 23rd 2003 – Big Gay Out I dedicate these writings, adventures & feelings to you.
Following the London Suicide bombings on 7/7 it was somewhat with apprehension that I boarded a train at Stockwell. Not only for the fact that there had been the awful destruction of so many innocent lives but also for the sad fact that just a week earlier at this very station an innocent 23 year old Brazilian boy was killed by our own police force. Killed by five deadly bullets to the head. Sure he ran, sure they shouted to him to stop, but if you were on an expired visa and faced being deported back to a land of poverty & crime (I’ve been to Rio. It’s a city where the rich shop at the same grocery stores as the poor. Where they have to result to mugging to afford to eat while the rich live in their condo’s and houses with Maids and Concierge). I’m not surprised he didn’t want to go back. But to be shot not once but five times in the head! Of course I can understand how the police felt, After 4 bombs and then four failed bombings it’s a world gone mad. Anyone running away with a bag or heavy overcoat could mean the death of even more innocent people. So with jubilance I entered the Tube and took the Train up towards Finsbury Park.
The Platforms deserted for 1400 on a Saturday afternoon and an air of silence lingering. You could but feel apprehension and slightly uneasy.
Of course the Victoria line journey was, fast and as we took the short journey North East the carriages filled with more and more gay looking people. This is not an insult. After all, it was July 23rd and Host day to Big Gay Out. London’s second Annual Big Gay Festival that sprung up as a commercial enterprise following the collapse of Pride several years ago. And that disastrous year where we walked miles to Finsbury park.
I had arranged to meet my good friend Kenton at Finsbury Park at 1500 and he arrived not long after feeling both as shaky and nerve ridden from the tube as I did. A weird feeling considering the thousands of times over the past few years we have taken underground journeys.
So a quick beer in a local bar had us less shaky and ready to make our way into the park.
The initial police presence was obviously. Illuminous Metropolitan Police Jackets lines the entrance. A sniffer dog alongside. Whether this was to sniff for drugs or explosive devices no one was really sure. But just having them there made everyone feel somewhat more at ease.
Unlike previous years there was hardly any line, the organisation within the park was incredible, multiple dance tents including our favourite the Terradome presented by DTPM and Trade. I met with Lee Holt, Chris Ellen, Ian and a variety of lees Police Officer friends and we boogied the day away. Making out way between Orange, Radio One, the Tropical Island, David Hasselhoff’s enchanted Forest and for some reason one of our favourite stops, Toilet. A huge florescent pink themed toilet zone housing literally hundreds of toilets meaning that you hardly ever had to stand in a line.
We boogied; we wandered and then had a blast. Sorry lads, those of you that said it’s not worth £28 to get in. It was worth £28. We had one of the best days out of the year and you would easily spend that sort of money on a club on New Years or Pride weekend.
As ten pm approached as is always the way, the gods turned against us and the clouds that had been darkening with their imminence throughout the day opened up and started to soak us revellers. It being ten pm and the dance tents closed we were not going to let it put a damper on our day and decided it was time to start making our way to the tube. Rode to Green Park and then Jumped into Taxis to Lees little Pad in Kensington.
July 23rd & July 24th 2005 – Hyde Park (a Fabulous House in Kensignton)
Have you ever wondered how the other half live? The lucky few multi multi millionaires? I’ve been lucky in my years (Lucky Bitch) to have had the opportunity to stay in some of the most exclusive houses ever. From Lord Wrexhams £40,000,000 Mansion Tyntesfield House near Bristol (Now owned by the National Trust) To Robert C De Milles House in West Hollywood.
Lee is a Butler. Having previously worked by appointment to Her Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth & the royals. Served at both at Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle and served on the Royal Yacht Britannia he is now Butler to an Arab Sheikh in Kensington. I say is, he is officially still staff. The Sheik has since moved back to his homeland and the house (if I dare call it a house) is presently on the market and up for sale.
He is still in service letting Selling Agents & prospective Buyers around the house. The house is a five story Georgian Structure that has earlier this year gone through a partial refurbishment. They must have spent millions on it on the Marble designed floorings alone. Her Ladyship and his Lordship both have separate Bedrooms both with Ensuite facilities. Her walk in wardrobe is bigger than some flats but if you imagine an Accessorize shop it was about the same size. The bathroom was not much smaller with sinks, Bidet and a shower including full floor to Ceiling Marble in every bathroom.
To the side if a four story Servants Quarters with Bedrooms, staff offices & in the basement the entertainment rooms. A Mosaic pool with jets to exercise against, Hot Tub, Steam room, gymnasium & Bar. Most of the house was empty of furniture but Lee keeps the pool and spa all in pristine condition and ready to use at short notice.
Of course leaving a park after a full day of partying the first thing you want to do is jump in a pool, steam and chill off. So it was with much reluctance that we took lee up on his offer and went back to Kensington to chill out.
It’s my third visit now. I had the full tour the first time. Have been back after a night at Action and now again after Big Gay Out. To say we feel lucky to use it is an understatement. Most people would never even get to see what the inside of such a house is like let alone get to stay over weekend after weekend. Ces’t la vie.
Without sending snobbish, I like to think its not so much that one falls into these opportunities by chance (Lucky Bitch) but that one creates these opportunities for oneself. After all I only got to go because I know Lee. Lee is one of my dear friends we surround ourselves with people that are dear to us and what goes around comes around. As I grew up I used to always say that “Money is an Attitude” & “You are what you act”. You don’t have to be a Millionaire to live like you do. Pretend you are, half of its in your head. I’ve stayed in many millionaires’ homes in my lifetime always as an invited guest. How many Millionaires do you know? I know over ten. Why? Because I just mix with them. I don’t have their means or funds but I certainly know how to party. I act like I belong to the clan, the fraternity. And as such do. They know I cant afford the things they can and half of the time offer to pay. Of course it would be rude to accept, except on rare occasions. Ok rare occasions and birthdays and events and every summer and well, it would be rude not too. After all, if they have the money and you don’t its no fun for them to do these things on their own is it?
So a huge Thank you to Lee who is not only gorgeous but a lovely guy with it. Thank you for the opportunity to share your wonderful home. For being a dear friend and for helping me to live my life to the fullest I can.
05 August 2005 - Brighton Pride
To me Brighton Pride is the event of the year on the gay calendar. Its more than just a day out it’s a day of true community spirit. This was my 7th consecutive year of going and as of the past four years I have done all that I can to ensure that I didn’t class with any international trips I had booked up. The usual deal is that Mark, Richard and I would meet at London Bridge and get a train down to the coast as close to 0800 as possible.
But now that I no longer live in the Smog getting to London Bridge for that hour would mean a 0500 start so with just two weeks to go I logged on to Lastminute.com and managed to find a real bargain. The Hilton Metrolpole on the sea front, Luxury Deluxe room for just £344 for Friday to Sunday stay. With the schedule I have had with work I decided it was time to take the bull by the ears and just grabbed my visa and it was mine. All mine.
So I took a half-day off on Friday and headed down to the cost arriving to an excited city by 1600. I’ve never been on the Friday night before and the city had an atmosphere about it.
I unpacked my bits and headed down to meet my friend Stuart at doctor Brighton’s for a drink or two. Of course a drink or two ended up with drinks back at his house. His house being a Georgian 5 storey gorgeous fabulous sea viewed traditional period House. (Lucky Bitches). So we chilled, drank wine and eventually got around to eating a couple of slices of Pizza before I was so exhausted & half cut that I made my way back to my hotel for an early night.
I must have been drunk as apparently I had a conversation with my friend Joffrey that I have absolutely no recollection of whatsoever. Oh well.
Saturday morning came around far to quickly and before I knew it I was dressed and Mark & Richard were meeting me for our traditional Champagne pre Pride Brunch. This year we did the full English in the lanes followed a bottle of Champagne in the park in the city centre awaiting the parade coming through. There is something magical about the Parade in Brighton. It always seems to me that the whole city comes out. Its not Gay Pride its Brighton Pride. Everyone lines the streets and people are hanging out of the windows like a New York City Ticker Tape Parade.
It felt quite naughty drinking from the bottle knowing that the city now had a new no alcohol on the streets Bi Law. Balls to that we thought and chilled back with our Verve Cliquet.
The Parade began in a mixed weather environment. Mainly cloudy and a little chilly with the prospect of the sun breaking through at any minute. Having enjoyed two glorious years in 2004 & 2003 we awaited a downpour like the complete wash out of 2002 with baited breath.
The rain thankfully never came but the collection of Floats and street performers weaved their way up the streets from the sea front to Preston Park. We wearily followed in their wake making the several mile walk on foot with the other 120,000 revealers that made it to the Celebration that day.
Arriving in the park Richard decided he needed his pre pride Poo. I know, Too much information, but be that as it may here we were in a line of over 30 people deep at the beginning of the event trying to get into one of the handful of chemical loos they had lining the parks edges.
The line took at least 30 minutes to get to the front of so we opened our second bottle of champagne sharing with a couple of lesbians who seemed only too happy to have a swig while we took the opportunity to sneakily jump even further ahead in the queue while they drank! J What sneaky things we are.
Mark & Richard decided they wanted to make their way straight to Wild Fruit for a day of dancing but still weary from the drinking on the previous evening I decided a walk around the park was more my thing. I don’t understand it myself, I felt practically hung over and all that I had was maybe 2 glasses of wine. Ok 3. 4? Maybe more. Oh who can say? It seemed like one, OK? Well it did yesterday. Today it felt more like 3 bottles and I needed rest. But Mark and Richard agreed it was no surprise I was drained with the gruelling work schedule I have been on travelling with work over the past three months.
So I left Wild fruit, found a bathroom for a quick pee. Thank heavens for Urinals. The line by now for a Chemical Loo was in excess of an hour. As thousands more made their way into the park. I wandered to the Market to try and escape the growing crowd. Not being able to move I sent a number of texts to try and find friends that I knew were somewhere in the park. Alex came to the rescue announcing that he was naturally in the VIP area directly in front of the Gaydar Radio stage. I made my way through the crowds bumping into Stuey, Kevin & Adam in the process.
Calling Alex on my arrival he and Mikey great me at the outer perimeter as Alex reminds everyone and me that you have to be a VIP to get in and he put the V in VIP! Whatever floats your boat dear! LOL.
Mikey was ready to go and boogie and so made his way to Wild Fruit passing me a wrist band giving me access to the royal enclosure. We really know how to work the system don’t we?
So Alex (Patsie) and I wandered around the market and across the park growing more and more exhausted till we settled back into the VIP area to enjoy a large and strong pint of Pimms. Well it’s the taste of summer after all. Before we knew it the sun had burst through and we’d had a Vodka Jelly and made our way to the Revenge tent for the highlight of the cabaret Tent, the one and only Dame Edna Experience. Unless your from Stockwell when its Dean!
If ever Edna (Jonathan) did a Greatest Hits Tour this was it. He performed better than I have ever seen before in my life. Starting as always with Karen Carpenters and including Sweet Dreams, Perfect Day, Bohemian Rhapsody, Don’t let along a cloud to rain on my Parade and many more. It was to me the highlight of the day leaving us all laughing and crying with tears of joy. You’d begin to think we were all a right bunch of poofs wouldn’t you?
Wednesday 24th August 2005 - Reunited with Scottie
I have a few friends in the world, whom I may only see once in a blue moon. Some live thousands of miles away in foreign lands others live less than 5 minutes drive. Yet our lifestyles and preoccupation with lovers and work and family commitments means we rarely get to meet. There are a handful of friends I see all of the time and love to bits. Richard & Mark who are more like family than friends. And then there are the good old friends I have known since I moved to London. Friends that never ask for anything but love you for who you are. Scott is one of these friends. Much like Lee a friend whom I was introduced to through other friends. I see them out and about and are always invited to the yearly parties. But Scott and I had not seen each other since Big Gay Out 2004. Sadly he and Lee having been a loving couple for over 4 years separated in the early part of this year. Scott was tied up with work, (His a cop) and
TBC
Bloody Kids
Ok, so I am single and don’t ever intend on having Children. Sure there is a possibility that one day if things work Dusan and I, I do have a vision. A vision of a future with the man I let get away. And I don’t see there never being a possibility of having kids. I mean, he could father them and his a real hunk so the child would look gorgeous but that would mean that one of us is higher up in the father ship than the other. Not even to mention the fact that we would need a mother to bring the child into the world. So for now, I am childless, partner less and as over the years my friends have all gotten married and for the most part had children, children just are not part of my life. For now at least. And all the time that I am a bachelor, loveless with no one else to answer to but my friends & I.
So today I find myself sat on a Boeing 747 – 400 Series Jumbo set bound westward towards San Francisco on my summer vacation. Despite the fact that just this February past I swore I would never fly in the economy cabin again I find myself sat in set 34D. An aisle seat is my only blessing as we are packed into an aerodynamic man made machine that is somehow soaring at 35000 feet towards my destination.
We are packed in ten wide in rows of three then four then three. The pour bastards in the middle seats have arms to deal with on either side and so I can at least enjoy the fact that I can get up whenever I want to and can stretch my legs into the aisle on occasions wary of a speeding cabin member and a half ton trolley cart ready to smash into my knee cap or hit me on my side.
The packed cabin has way too many children for my taste. If I had a chance to change aviation for the better the first rule I would pass is that certain flights of the week are strictly “Children Free”.
Firstly the little brats seem to take priority on getting bulkhead seats. Not that that really bothers me all that much. Who really wants to sit with their feet against a wall a foot in front of you? Its like being sat in the front row of the royal circle at the Dominium. You may have a fantastic view but there is bugger all legroom. So let them have their bulkhead seats, but if they have to have the bulkhead then make them have it for the reason given. So the kids can sleep in the Air Cots provided by the airline. Instead the row at the front of my section has 3 adults and twins that can barley be 2 years of age. They have done nothing but scream and shout for the past four hours and their only guardian, a man, often leaves one to go change the messy bottom of the other. To their left there are kids of about the ages 4 & 6 that seem to think that the aisle is some sort of Adventure Playground. Running up and down with such force that every third time they hit someone’s arm or trip on someone’s leg, which ends in tears. So we have the Twins Screaming in Row One and kids running up the aisle. Just when I thought it couldn’t get much worse there is a beacon of light at the end of the tunnel or by the galley at least as I see a man standing and struggling to his feet. Too far back to be of any assistance I watch as he reaches for the overhead compartment and
Feels his way for the latch. He finds it within seconds and reaches in for his bag. I watched intensely at this mans courage. To be flying such a distance and totally blind. He seamlessly found what he was looking for, felt his way for the headrest and proceeded back up the aisle to the washrooms purely by feel. I suddenly had a wave of awe at this mans courage and realise once again that despite my ailments I am lucky to have all my functioning body parts thank the Lord.
And so I stopped watching the kids and watched this man and thanked him for showing me how self centred I can be. Sorry World. I try not to. Sometimes you get caught up in the drama and emotion of your own current situation you forget to use your God given eyes and look beyond your own problems to experience the world. A Life waiting to be discovered.
I certainly having watched my dear grandmother Hilda Smyth who’s body slowly shut down on her and sadly passed away on August 7th of this year. Nan was of sound mind right till the very end. Even trying to fool the Doctors that she was better in Health than she clearly was. It was the hardest thing I have ever seen watching her get weaker and weaker. My Mother holding a constant vigil by her bedside. Only leaving to come home and change or eat.
Nan would say how she was ready to go but like the phrase says its like watching paint dry. She is at peace now and after 19 years a Widow is now back with Granddad Arthur united once more.
I vowed as I sat in that chair and talked to her (Having to shout as hearing had virtually left her too) that I would not sit and let my life pass me by. This trip to the USA is likely to be one of my very last. Not because I don’t enjoy it anymore but that I’ve been there, done that. I have yet to see more of South America and the whole of the Asian, Australasian & African Continents.
8th SEPTEMBER 2005 – SAN FRANCISCO USA
San Francisco will always be one of my favourite cities in the world but with its amazing scenery and landscaping. A climate that hardly ever changes and is nearly always 60 degrees (17 ish Celsius).
But my real reason for coming this year was to see one of my dearest and most fabulous friends in all of the world, Ed Fonteca. The sweetest dearest San Franciscan I know.
As it was a long holiday weekend we got up early (Jet lag and they always get up early in the US) and went down the Castro for coffee at Peets Coffee bar. Yummy a Vanilla Latte. Just what I needed to kick start the day. Then it was off to change and a fabulous Brunch with friends of Ed’s from his school days in Seattle. It was my favourite, Eggs Benedict! Then having stuffed our faces Ed took us for a spin in his brand new BMW with black leather interior and White Shinny Exterior. We ended up downtown and did all of the big name stores. I thought I was a keen shopper but Ed beats me hands down. We went into Gucci, Tiffany, Saks of 5rth Avenue, Nieman Marcus & Burberry to say but a few. I tried to tell him that Burberry was so last season and that theses days only a Chav would wear it but would he listen? No, in Ed’s words its imported and that means its Fabulous. Hmm think I met someone who says the word Fabulous as much as I do.
By 1400 we were all starving again. Must be the cooler San Franciscan air or something. So we went into Nieman Marcus & had lunch in their Fabulous Rotunda Restaurant. Nieman Marcus sits on the Lower Right hand corner of the famous Union Square, which is bordered by famous shops and landmarks. As we sat and dinned on fine wines & appetizers Ed pointed out how lucky we are (Lucky Bitches). Dining here while in this same very country in the State of Louisiana New Orleans has been virtually destroyed. It was hard to believe that as we looked out of the window into Union Square a city of the same size and the same age (Old) as San Francisco could have been totally destroyed as it had. We all took a moment to reflect and realised how lucky we are for the blessings that we received. This led into a full blown conversation on what went wrong and was it that the only people that were left are the ones that could not afford to leave? Deep & Meaningfull conversation for day one of the trip.
Having shopped till we dropped on the 3rd anniversary of knowing Ed we decided to spend the Labour Day doing something different. The weather was a fabulous 70’ degrees (F) with clear skies over the while of the city.
We rented bicycles from Blazing Saddles down on Fisherman’s Wharf and decided to bike across the Golden Gate Bridge. It was perfect weather for it. So I rode the Muni (That’s the San Francisco Public Transportation Network of Trams, Trollys, Buses & Cable Cars) down to the Wharf. Totally blond I completely miss understood what Ed had told me and thought he said take it all the way to the end. Knowing that the Underground Car goes from his place in Castro to Embarcadero. I looked at the maps of the quays down on the wharf. I was to meet the boys at Number 41 and presently I was at number……..1! Oh great, so a galf an hour walk later I arrive a little sweaty from the walking but got to take some fabulous photos of things like Fishermans Wharf & The Coit Tower.
So I rented a Bike and the boys had their own and off we headed toward Golden Gate Park. On our bikes for a gentle ride. Gentle. Who were they trying to kid. “Come on” they said, “Well go for a nice ride across the bridge”. Well the bridge I was fine with, I didn’t realise we had to go up two enormous hills to get there. Now I know I have not been to the gym of late and that I am not the fittest person anymore but for goodness sake, I couldn’t even make it up the hills. I was panting and sweating. Memo to me, your joining a gym when you get home.
So I kicked and I argued but once we got to the other side of the bridge it was the most awesome view of San Francisco that I have ever seen. And having done the hard part it is all down hill to the little town of Scausilito which was a fabulous fun ride down what seemed like a Monte Carlo Street Rally. Weeeeeeeee. Was such fun. And we celebrated, My treat, with a Fish Lunch in the sun on the quayside and Napa Valley Champagne to wash it all down with. Fabulous Lucky Bitches.
A huge thank you to Ed & Jason for forcing me off my fat butt and for doing something that was so much fun even if I did moan. 3 days on and my bum is still sore from the ride. But I do have fabulous photo’s.! Yeah.
Right now sat in the Delta First Class lounge waiting to take my flight to Salt Lake City. Best have one last Bloody Mary. Don’t think there will be much alcohol in Utah.
How can Utah people be lucky Bitches without booze? Whatever!
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)