Happy New Year

As the song used to go at Pleasure Island when I worked at Fabulous Walt Disney World...

"Out with the old, in with the new,
Pleasures untold are waiting for you,
Don't miss a chance, your long overdue,
Out with the old, in with the new".

As World News looks at the celebrations as the clock strikes the hour of midnight and the old year is seen off and we welcome 2011 and the whole year ahead. I always think its one of the most wonderful things about Human beings. We as a species celebrate certain things, Birthdays, New Years and follow traditions of many centuries gone past.

How the years seem to have flown. It doesnt seem that long ago that we were all lining the River Thames to say goodbye to 1999 and welcome the new Millenium.

So as we prepare to celebrate the new year may I wish you all a very Happy New Year and may 2011 only bring you love, health & happiness.

Goodbye Ugly Betty

Watching Ugly Betty, the last episode ever really bought back some amazing memories. As Betty celebrated her final party it reminded me of how I felt back in 1995 having found out that soon I would be moving to Orlando, selected to work as a Walt Disney World International Program cultural representitive.

My love for Disney and the magic of it all had no more faded than has my fondness and love of the friends I made there. We were not just cast members, my arrival year had their own magic.

So excited to receive cards from around the globe from old Disney friends and even more excited to be going to Jersey next year to Nick's 40th Birthday. Christine, who arrived in Orlando in my arrivals group and I are my oldest of Disney Friends. She was always dear to me and the fact she is flying in to London before we go to Jersey will make the whole trip even more magical. 2 dear friends for some 16 years reuniting to go not just on a trip, but a magical trip. For it will not be just us two away but potentially the whole Disney Gang. I so hope others will make it. How I would die to see Kiyomi again, David & Claudia, Ali, Shirley, Tracey and Serge to name but a few. It will most certainly be something to look forward to once the Christmas decor comes down and the grey and gloom return.

TWo more days till Christmas eve and I am as excited as ever. Maybe its because I still believe in magic, in pixie dust or maybe its just because I believe that everyones dreams should always come true. Merry Christmas one and all.

Mr Smiley? Must be the WDW touch!

A couple of times in the last seven days people have said to me, you are always smiling! Am I? Well I can't really help that but it seems it's a defining feature I have. I was told today its how people recognise me! I guess it must come from my Disney Days where we had to smile all day long. You cant ever pay someone to smile and for it to feel warm and genuine. But at Disney we smilled for we were happy. They dont call Disney World the Happiest place on Earth for no reason.

We smiled for we wanted to smile! Because we were chosen to do that and that for sure made us smile.

I just found it brouhht me a smile to hear it was how they recognised me. There could be worse characteristics eh?

Spinning Instructor Certification

When my boss first said he was thinking of becoming a Spinning Instructor I thought, that sounds like fun. I have afterall always enjoyed excercise classes and love the fact that you get a full 45 minute workout with the all the fun of group participation. Its certainly much easier to do a class than to spend 45 minutes, self motivated, on all the cardio machines.
So at the time it seemed quite normal to say to Ian, If you do it, I'll do it with you.

Having read the pre-course homework (Excercise Phyiology), the weekend course rapidly came around. It didn't help that just days earlier I had a fairly nasty fall and was somewhat grazed and bruised.

Arriving at 9AM, Saturday Morning at the Virgin Health Club, Broadgate, was quite unnerving. I met up with Ian and we went in together.

The group was made up of 23 students, most of whom were either Personal Trainers or existing excerise to music instructors. I think Ian and I felt a bit like fish out of water and was dreading them asking the group, what do you do for a living? That said it seemed we knew a fair bit and that the pre course work that was required for non fitness industry participants gave us a heads up and ready to partake.

I have to confess, as the course started and our instructor, Sandro, stated he would be assessing us all and has on occasion had to fail a number of participants. I actually said to myself, I was there for the fun of it and to learn how to do it. Its not like I have a club to potentially teach in.

After 4 lectures, 3 classes and some group excercises we had to take the bull by the horn and teach a group and believe it or not, we both passed :-).

There is an amazing sense of self achievement when you set your mind to something and go out and get it. Especially when the goal seems so hard to achieve. 48 Hours later and a lot of sweat I have my certification.

Amazingly, on coming home I discovered that our residents Gym has just bought six Spinning bikes for the new extension! Now at least I can go over to the gym and practice with my Ipod. Amazing how fate turns out sometimes eh?

Gay mens chorus Christmas show

Every year for at least the last eight years, Emily, Gill, Lisa and I have gone to watch the Gay Mens Chorus (GMC), for their annual Christmas concert. Infact Emily and I have attended many more.

This year it was Friday 10th December and I booked the tickets for us all as my birthday gift to the girls.

We arranged to meet at Sloane Square Brazzerie at 1800, which meant I had to leave my works Chritsmas meal an hour early. But that wasnt a problem.

Standing, reading my paper one the circle line I could not believe it when who boarded at Monument and stood immediately next to? Emily of course. The funny thing is, I have done that with Emily at least 3 times. Last year, post watching the GMC concert her parents got on the tube and stood immediately next to us! Fate, I guess!

Poor Gil texted us just after we arrived at the bar and said she had turned ill and so was heading home. Was so sad not too see her. But on the plus, lisa, Emily & I had fun! Somehow it only feels Christmas now after this lovely christmas show. It was, of course, fabulous. Heading home quickly afterwards as needed to wake early for my "Spinning" instuctor course! More to follow on just that subject...

Wetting the babies head?

My colleague Ray's baby, Max, turned one last week and there was much talk about how we had yet to wet the babies head.

I had completely forgotten it was on this week, but last night, post work, we made our way down to a little bar, the Ship & Shovel, adjacent to heaven. I have to confess I was a little confused that the celebration was supposed to be about the boy, but the boy was nowhere to be seen. I must have missed the point of it all. I thought we were meeting up to see him a year on and to toast the little chap. Instead it was just an excuse for the parents to get a sitter and go out for the night. Doh.

Needless to say, this unexpected night I didn't realise was in my diary, ended up being a way later than usual Thursday than usual. This morning we were all looking like we all needed 4 more hours sleep. I wouldn't have minded but I got 7 hours sleep. Must have been a long week.

Happy Thanksgiving to all my American & Canadian friends :-) X

Why did I agree to this?

Some months ago my boss said that he would like to take a class on becoming a Spinning Instructor. He'd become rather keen on Spinning of late and has recently moved to a very swish gym near to the office. Somehow I found myself agreeing to go with him and signed up for the said course. I have to confess, I find Spinning rather boring as its all on a stationary excercise Bike and just find it very repetitious. That said, I always thought I may enjoy teaching it far more than I enjoy doing it.

Money parted hands, the course is booked and in less than three weeks I have to pass my exam on the Physiology of Excercise & complete the 48 hour practical training days at the Broadgate Gym. That's two full days of spinning learning how to teach it!

The problem lies two fold. Firstly, I have only ever done the class twice before and secondly, depite promising myself I will go every time I go to the gym, end up doing some alternative excercise instead. I mean an hour on the Treadmill, Cross Trainer & Stair Master seems more fun to me than 45 minutes on the bike. Like I said, hopefully I will enjoy teaching it more.

To ensure I have some practice, I agreed to join Ian at the gym this morning for a 715AM class! Was I mad? No gay men are at the gym at that hour. I suddenly remembered, as my alarm sounded at 5AM, why I stopped going to the gym before work. Its too hard to get up.

What's the betting that by the time I get to the gym I will have saddle sore? Will I get throught it? Check back later to find out!

Whats your faveourite App?

Okay, so I have had my iPhone a while now and totally into Apps. What's your faveourite app? What's it do? Lets discuss?

I'm a fan of both Ocado & Sound Hound which finds you a song from playing it to it or simply singing or humming it. A'int technology great? x

Chill out once in a while

Do you ever get that feeling that the weekend is not quite enough to fully recharge the batteries? That come Monday morning the alarm ringing is far from a welcome sound but a shock alerting you to the fact that you have five hectic days of work ahead?
Having been putting in extra hours of late in the preparation of the November launch, my hours, as always, have been going up up up. I think I put in almost 12 hours every day Monday to Wednesday this week. Sunday was scheduled for testing. Potentially we would all be needed to go in and help so to ensure that I had a enough time out, I booked Friday as a days holiday.

Thursday evening was the annual Gratzia 20% off on the whole of Carnaby Street. I went with Ian, Claire & Jo from work and both Emily and my dearest Dusan joined me. We did a few shops, got a few free drinks. Managed to get a bargain discount on a new Ben Sherman Man Bag (Suits you sir)! and then made our way to China Town for a slap up meal on Gerald Street. There is something about China town. You feel like you are getting real Chinese food and at the price, just £15.50 for the full 3 course meal. Was lovely spending time with Claire & Ian as always. Sometimes I forget to remind myself, your a lucky bitch remember?

Friday I was determined not to waste the whole day and do nothing so set the alarm for a decent hour and headed to town for a good 90 minute workout at the gym. My legs really started to feel it after an hour on the cross trainer. I then headed west on Oxford Street for John Lewis, determined to pick up a Delia Smith, Christmas Cake kit. Mmmmm. Of course it may have everything you need in the bag, but what I didn't have was either a Sieve or a Cake Tin. Still you are investing in your future and you have the added John Lewis bonus of Never Knowingly Undersold.

Saturday I had a lie in, then headed to town for another workout. I then made my way via tube to Notting Hill Gate to meet my dear friend Neil Sexton. I've said for weeks, i'll come over your way. We can both just chill. So I did. We started on Portabello Road and had a lovely Burrito in Santo's then headed to the Badger Pub for a few drinks. His lovely boyfriend(I so should say long term partner), the designer, Jasper Garvida, joined us and was lovely to see all three again. Jasper is on the verge of becoming a huge designer. I can feel it in my blood. I so wish him all the success in the world and can't wait for the suit he promised to design me, blends of Blue & Grey to match my eyes. Fabulous.

They saw me to my bus which would have been fine if I had not heard the automatic voice saying Ladbrook Grove and thinking they meant Notting Hill Gate, got off. Of course I was lost and finally, after some wandering, made my way to a tube station and eventually headed home.

My Ocado delivery, meanwhile, was due 2000 - 2100. Of course at 2000, on the nose they were there and I was stuck at London Bridge. Isn't concierge Fabulous? You can just instuct them to leave you delivery and voila. No need to worry. How do people cope without Concierge?

Today I woke up at around noon. Dusan was fast asleep. I missed Hollyoaks so flipped through the documentarys starting and came across one called America: A History of the USA. I didn't realise it was an 8 hour epic but it told the story of Americas founding fathers and their way westward in the new world until the mordern day. The inventions of Thomas Edison and the how the lightbulb saw the end to darkness. How cleaning up the sewerage saved thousands of lives. The building of the railways and the great Hoover dam. The interstate system and all about the American Dream. Maybe its in my genes and why I feel distanced from this land. Why do so many have such lack of dream, lack of vision? America saw the impossible and then put man on the moon. Was an amazing way to spend a Sunday, learning something about a nation as well as entertaining. Do I feel chilled out? Yes! Do I feel rested? No? Do I feel fabulous? like Duh! ;-) X

Vicki & Jamie's wedding

After what seemed like she was planning it for an age, the date of Vicki's Wedding was finally upon us. I know how much effort she had put into the planning of everything from the dresses to the flowers and the menu for the guests, down to the sweets from the 1980s. There was of course the fiasco where she recieved a call from the dress maker who was responsible for making the Brides Maids dresses just two weeks before the big day. They explained that the dressed had been made but were however made in the wrong colour. Vicki was distraught but turned out that the simply had lost the order entirely and so, thankfully, they were able to make them once again in time for the big day.

My team were invited to the evening event, but as I had booked the following day off as annual leave so as to have a chance to catch up with family & friends. So I needed to leave work and go home in order to pick up the car. Colin, from Training & Competence asked if he could come with me as Ian, Claire & Adam were going via her parents. So Colin came with me, stopping briefly at home then jumping in the car just before 1900. Down the A2, through Blackwall tunnel and then down the A12 to the M11. We were fine till we excited and made our way down the A414 and eventually got lost in a no signal zone where even mobile phone GPS signals don't exist. People sometimes ask why I won't consider moving back to Essex. That's one of the reasons. No signal, no night life. Heck even the shops close at just after 1730! It's crazy. You run out of milk at 1800 and there is litterally nowhere that you can buy a pint! Anyway, back to the wedding. Colin & I got a little lost on this country lane but directions provided by a local pub had us back on track and despite a five minute detour were on time at the venue. Even beating Adam, Claire & Ian.

We wandered in and found Jamie in his full wedding suit and were lead through to the main bar. As Vicki turned around and spotted me through the bar you could see the happiness on her face and how wonderful she felt & looked on this magical day. Dressed in an amazing Ivory dress that was thin at the waist and fanned out like at the bottom, my first glance at her in this stunning outfit, complete with White Ostrich Feather wrap, was she looked so statuesq yet had a magical look, like when Ariel is dreaming in the Little Mermaid or when Bell dances with the Beast in the dance of true love.

Harriet was one of the bridemaids dressed fabulously in pink and we all had a dance with the Bride before making our way to the cheese & pate board for some snacking. I was being rather refined, driving so only had two shandies then switched to soft drinks and then headed back for a dance with the Bride & Bridesmaids. Adam stood, leaning on his elbow, trying to look sophisticated but not willing to dance. I don't know if he was trying to look cool or just didn't want to dance. Suddenly there were wispers that we should request they play Michael Jacksons Billie Jean and with that Adam was up on the dance floor putting together his Michael Jackson moves. This is the guy that has on many occasion called me a geek for writing a blog & running a virtual cafe. Meanwhile he studies the MJ dance routine step by step and practices late night. Pot, Kettle & all!

As I left at midnight and made my way the 45 drive back to my folks we all had a great evening. Its great that we could see Vicki celebrate on her big day and lovely to meet her parents too. Nice that I can enjoy social evenings with work friends too. Sometimes you realise how blessed you really are.

As Vicki heads off to Marekesh for her Honeymoon, we wish you all the very best as you begin to enjoy your happy ever after! x

Emily's Birthday Bonanza

For several years now, Emily & I have enjoyed extending our Birthday celebrations to last a full month. Starting early and finishing the holiday season with a meal shared somewhere together. Friday 15th was our arranged date and I met Miss Mews (Emily), just after 1800 at Nike Town at Oxford Circus. It seemed to make more sense to meet in a warm shop than out on the streets, especially now that the winter nights are setting in and it was deffinitely Hat & Coat weather.

From our rendezvous we found a nice bar with a gas fire to sit up, relax and enjoy a nice bottle of red before making our way down Regent Street to Titbits. Emily is a strict vegetarian and so it seemed to make sense to go somewhere she really could enjoy. So I researched and found a really recommended option, Titbits. There is a huge boat in the middle and its covered in both hot & cold dishes, over 40, all vegetarian using ancient recipees (The menu states they have links with the Worlds oldest vegetarian restaurant).

Once you have loaded your plate you make your way to the bar and they weigh it. Everything is done by weight and as it was a birthday, we bought a bottle of Proscecco to wash it all down.

I have to confess the food was absolutely divine and depite the fact that I am a firm meat lover and enjoy a nice meaty steak. The food was so tasty and so filling you didn't miss the meat element at all. Two courses later we were both absolutely stuffed, in a pleasant sort of way and decided we would make our way east, over towards a tube station, but stop at a Soho Bar on the way. We happened to stop on the way at Prowler. I wanted to pick up some of the gaypers and found a nice card for my mother. Then we stopped at Cafe Boheme for our final drink of the evening. Feeling a little full, a little fluffy we started to walk down to the tube, when we spotted a crowd outside the stage door of "Priscilla, Queen of the dessert". Emily being a bit of Ben Adam's fan asked if we could stay and see if Ben appeared. As the cast came out in the London drizzle several stopped for pictures and autographs with fans and then out came, no not Ben, but Alf. Alf Fisher from Home & Away. We were both estatic at seeing a soap star from our youth. He stopped for pictures and a chat with fans and was a nice surprise ending to a fabulous birthday Bonanza with Miss Mews. Happy Birthday Emily.

Goodbye dearest Auntie Pauline, forever rest in peace.

Thursday morning I woke much earlier than usual. We were about to run the pilot training sessions the new software I have been working on and being somewhat conciencious I wanted to go in early and do some prep work. Make sure the room was set up in time, etc.

The class kicked off as normal at 0900 and it seemed like an ordinary day until just before our coffee break when my phone rang. It's unusual for me to even have a signal at the office, let alone get a call, but glancing at the LCD screen, I made note that it was my parents number. We were about due a break so I gave my students time to grab a coffee and called back my parents. Everything okay? I asked. It was my father who answered the phone. I could tell immediately by his voice something was not right. Was it Nan? Was she ill? "Is it Nan?" I asked? hessitantly.
"No", said Said. "It's your Auntie Pauline. She passed away this morning at just after nine".

I couldn't believe it. I was standing on my mobile right in the middle of the banking floor and as my Dad started to explain what had happened I could feel my eyes welling up, my arm and hands started to shake and my legs started to turn to Jelly. I had to interupt Dad and more of a statement than a question ask, Can I call you back in a bit?

As I made my way down the short distance to my own Desk on the third floor the shaking was becoming worse. What on earth had happened? She was only 64. I went straight up to my boss and thankfully he was not on the phone, explained my situation and he gave immediate instructions to Ray to dismiss my class and explain the situation.

Ian took me to grab a coffee and then for a walk just till I could compose myself. It was so sudden. If she had been ill or in Hospital some time you could have expected it but like this? It just didn't seem real.

Today, Sunday, was James Stanley Borchard's Christening and so we were back there for the celebrations. Especially as I was a Godfather. Lee was the first I saw at the reception. All tanned and healthy looking, having just flown back from Australia to be with his family. You feel so helpless and not sure what to say, but we chatted and met his girlfriend. Then Samantha arrived with the three kids in Tow. You could see the pain and sadness on her face and as we kissed and then embraced the hug was almost as though Auntie Pauline were there herself and then there was Denham. Like all of them, putting on a brave face. With the hello's and first words over you don't really know what to say, but I will say that Auntie Linda's words are so so very true. It takes some very strong brave young people to come out to a christening and meet the family and friends, just a couple of days after their dear mothers passing. Yet remembering Auntie Pauline as we all do, she would have done the same. Being Selfless and putting others before herself and sharing her love with everyone.

This evening Sue called to wish us all the best and send their love and reminded me that Pauline, or A.P. as we referered to her often was surrounded with love all her life. Trevor, her husband adored her with all his heart and their three Children, Grand Children and then her two Sisters and their onward families. I can honestly say I have nothing but fond memories of the Christmas's we have shared at our house or theirs and I am sure I can speak for everyone when we all say, she will be truly missed. My only regret is that like any of us, we never knew it was coming and never got to say goodbye. At least Auntie Pauline and I had one thing in common. We both often told each other "I Love You". That may seem a simple thing to do but when you have people around you that show you only love then you are truly blessed and that we hope you truly are dear Auntie. Missing you already. With all the love in all our hearts, always and forever.

The journey home

My final day in Gran Canaria could not have been more perfect. The sky was brilliant blue and there was not a cloud in the sky. I managed to pack fairly quickly then made my way to check out. Thankfully the Hotel Katarina has a Hospitality room where you can leave your bags, shower and freshen up. I then grabbed a newspaper and found myself a spot on the grass down by the pool. After some time I realised I was starting to drip with sweat. It really was hot today. Ideal for a last minute chance to top up ones tan, however it was so hot and without any breeze there was only one thing for it. I would have to go to the Beach.

So I packed up my back pack and headed south walking beneath the Hotel Rui sand then down onto the dunes. I ensured I had at least two litres of water to survive the journey then packed up and hiked across the dunes.

At 1530 my alarm sounded warning me that it was time to make my way back to the hotel. A quick shower and moisturise and then I was sat waiting outside the hotel for the shuttle to the airport. You know how it is, you get talking to people that you are travelling with. Well this lady was asking, Have you been before? What did you think of the hotel? Then she announced to everyone. "Oooh you can tell his got money, look at his luggage". Okay so we have fabulous Swiss made suitecases. Clearly the lady knew I had class. The shuttle is definitely the cheaper option. I believe we paid about 60 Euro each way in a taxi before. However it did stop at a lot of hotels on the way back. Still that said, we were at the airport within an hour of leaving my resort.

Joining the queue for check in, the family chav arrived behind and were quite vocal and I over heard them saying the flight outbound had been delayed. Now I have nothing against Easyjet at all. Infact they just happen to be my very faveourite of all the budget airlines, but I have to wonder why, when I checked in, the check in person could not have told us of the delay? Infact the boarding card I was given still stated the orginal time 1915. I really don't mind not getting extras but customer service should not come a sloppy second.

Checked in, albeit 24 Euros worse off as my bag now exceeded the 20 Kilos limit, I made my way immeditately to the VIP Lounge. The Las Palmas Lounge has complimentary alcoholic beverages and light snacks. Its nothing snazzy, but they do have Private bathrooms and a private smoking terrace. I poured myself a large Bloody Mary and settled down to an episode of Glee on the laptop. The flight delay, of two hours, meant that I had more than paid for my visit with the amount of whiskey I'd enjoyed.

I don't know if it was that Thomas Cook Airlines were so uncomfortable last time that the journeys seemed much longer or if, infact EasyJet do have faster planes? Our flight time was 3 hours, 45 Minutes, while Thomas Cook took 4 Hours and 30 Minutes. Hmmmmm, well lesson learned.

Once we touched down there was no walkway available. We had to wait for a coach to take us to the terminal. Through immigration, baggage claim and customs, I took the Monorail back to the South Terminal and to the train station.

"Due to emergency engeeneering works there are no trains between London Victoria and Three Bridges". WTF!

Dozens of people were gathering on the terminal, all seeking assistance. Clearly the Gatwick Express is not running, despite the fact they advertise it leaves every 15 minutes 24 hours a day. A lady approached the Asian man at the information kiosk. "Excuse me but how do we get to Victoria?"
"You need to take the bus from here to East Croydon then take a Train", he answered.
"How long will that take?" she asked
"I don't know", he said, bluntly.
"How far is East Croydon?", she politely asked.
"I don't know", he said, bluntly again.

It was like they had put the most unhelpful person on the planet in the posistion of trying to help people in distress? This is what really furiates me about this country. The Customer Service is appauling. We were left without information and the one person who could have helped had a single response "I don't know". A polite it may take about an hour on the coach would have been suffice. Incomptent fool. What makes it worse is that I'd had to pay £16 for a ticket.

Eventually the Station Idiot got on his Walkey Talkey and found out where the Coaches were and escorted us downstairs where we boarded. Now rather than just taking everyone to a single station where we could continue our journey, they instead stopped at every train station along the route. Even those where not a soul exited the coach. Eventually, some hour later we arrived at East Croydon. It was now 4AM. I was due at work in the morning. Thankfully Ian had said I could work flexihours. Grabbing my case I hauled it up to the Station then looked at the Train Times. Next Train to Victoria was in 30 Minutes. Then I noticed a London Bridge Service. That would be much better. Far closer to home. I could jump a taxi from London Bridge. The London Bridge bound train was 45 minutes wait, but so much closer to home, worth the sacrafice. I sat down in the waiting room as the clock slowly ticked by. 4.07, 4.12, 4.19, 4.30 stand clear of the closing doors. Eventually the 04:45 pulled in, but contarary to advertised, this service would not stop at London Bridge and was non stop until Blackfriars. At blackfriars I changed platforms for a southbound train to London Bridge and then evevntually got a train to New Cross and a Bus home. Phew. It had taken me some 13 hours door to door. It was 0605 when I finally arrived home. I promtly composed an e-mail to my boss enlightening him of my journey and the fact that I needed a few hours sleep before work. It almost feels as though all that rest and chilling had been thrown aside by this one catastrophic journey. Still I made it in the end.

Rain or Shine

Saturday´s weather was a little overcast but the sun was starting to burn through as I made my way down to the beach. Hopefull that within an hour, say by noon, it hard burned through the cloud. Sadly I was mistaken. Come 1300 the rain started. A few spots at first but then quite a downpour. Now if I had been at the pool this would not have been any major problem but the fact that the beach is a 20 minute plus hike accross the sand dunes was a nother thing entirely. As I reached the Rui and looked back at the dunes you could see a trail of people making exodus all the way into the horizon like a trail of ants making their way from the nest.

A couple of hours back in the hotel room I was entertained thanks to the marvelous box set of Glee I bought with me. I am on the 4th Disk already and I am totally loving it. The girl Rachel reminds me so much of my dear friend Louise (Formerly Castle) whom I spent years at drama school with. They even look alike. I don´t think there is a single episode I don´t have tears drop from my eyes. Oh Clifford! Poof.

By 1600, the rain looked to be lightening up so I decided to do what any self respecting gay would do on a rainy day. Head to the Welman Spa (AKA Heró´s Sauna). What better way to wind away the hours than in a luxury hot tub or steam room after getting a drenching on the beach.

By the time I left the rain had stopped, the puddles were dissapearing and the humidity was rising. I was glad of my airconditioning in the bedroom.

A late Dinner I ended up at Chaps bar. Mainly as it was local and I couldn´t be bothered to go all of the ten minute walk to the Yumbo Centre. A couple of drinks and I was done. Early night. Or it would have been if it were not for the cast of Glee keeping me up all night.

Sunday I woke around 1100, bliss. What´s the point of a holiday if you can´t lie in? I headed down to the pool for just over an hour. Time to start on my tan and read the paper. By 1300 the heat by the pool was a little too much. Sweat was dripping down my face and there is little breeze. So I headed to the room for a quick can of cider and to apply more cream then made my way down to the beach. What a difference a day can make. It was about 33 today. Hottest day so far. Well I had some emergency tanning to do. I smothered myself in sunscreen and intended in making up for the rainy day. Mission Accomplished. I left the beach at 1830 and can thankfully say I have a lovely colour. Could be darker but lovely all the same.

Post dinner I am back to my Glee club until its late enough to hit the Yumbo one last night. One line I´d like to quote from the show reminds me so much of myself. "Being different got me out of this boy town, it made me stronger". I guess you don´t realise it at the time but it is true. What doesn´t kill you really does make you stronger.

Gran Canarian Fridays

Post dinner last night I had a short disco nap and ended up over at Chaps bar in the Cita Centre. Their website stated it was a special event, which turned out to be a foam party. Or as Dusan would call it, a Splash party. Well considering I am such a fan of the ones they throw in London it would be rude not to go. Of course there is a downside. The foam dries out your skin. It is essential to smother in moisturiser post foam. That said and done I had a great evening and it wasn´t too late an ending getting back to the hotel at just after 230AM.

Intended to get up in time for Breakfast this AM. But hit the off button and before I knew it, the time was noon.

This morning was partially cloudy but nipping to shop for a Crosissant I noticed it was already 29 and would top 30 before the day was out.

I made my way to the poolside and post a short cooling dip sat out and read the morning paper. By 2PM I was starting to doze off. Was it the sun? The heat? Eyes starting to close I thought it best to nip upstairs for forty winks. That said the cleaner was clearly working the room above. All I could hear, even with ear plugs was furniture moving across the floor. With sleep not an option I decided i´d go down to the beach. It was cloudy now and somehow the beach is always sunny. Must be the heat hitting the land compared to the sea. Spent 3 glorious hours on the beach before making my way the long trek over the dunes back to the hotel. Parched and covered in sand I needed a nice shower and then settled down to watch the box set of Glee I bought out with me. Sounds like a near perfect day to me! Happy Frigay.

Heatwave

I can only think that Michael Fish must have been predicting the weather for the forcast I read the day before leaving home. It forcast rain, clouds and very windy almost every day of the long term forcast. Instead it´s been over 30 degrees every day so far.

Last night having spent a couple of hours on the beach and nearly burned my feet on the sheer heat of the sand, despite footwear, I retreated to the balcony of my room. It faces the sun from mid afternoon and means I can get myself a cocktail, work on my tan and still have all the amenities on hand. Plus it over looks the pool so you can look at all the sexy boys!

Come 1800 I was done, so showered, moisturised and went down for dinner in the restaurant. I was done by 2000. Far too early to go out in Gran Canaria. The Yumbo centre doesn´t really get going until midnight. I decided a nap, or rather Siesta was called upon.

I dosed off quite quickly and must have been in a fairly deep sleep as missed both a phone call and a text message. Waking to find it gone midnight. Perfect timing for Yumbo.

I showered, dressed and made the short walk up the hill to the Yumbo Centre and first went into Construction Bar for a drink before it emptied out a bit so ended up in Cruise Bar for a second one. This bar has nothing to do with ships by the way. The only problem with the bars and clubs over here is the lack of air conditioning. It was a warm night and once you are in a bar the sweat is dripping off you.

Leaving at 3:00 AM I found myway to the taxi rank for a short ride home. Was pleasantly surprised that it was noon when I woke. Another pefect blue sky. Not a cloud in site and once more the mercury is pushing at 30. So hot that now just before 1400 I have come in for a break from the sun and some shade. A chance to rehydrate. (Is Vodka Hydrating?).

Will go grab a bite to eat and get back to a nice spot to finish my morning paper and carry on reading the book.

Considering my missions were relax and tan, I am achieving it nicely. Having fabulous break in the sunshine and will look glowing and tanned for James Christening!

Playa Del Ingles

Despite the stampede that is part of the Easyjet way of life it was a pleasant flight. I have never understood why they can´t simply issue seat numbers and board from the rear of the plane. At least they have tonned down the Orange.

I was in Row 3 sat next to a lovely lady called Bridgette. It must have been the company but before I knew it we were landing and its a 4 hour plus flight.

Arrived at hotel too late to really want to do anything but grab a drink and get an early night.

Woke this morning at 1000. Finished unpacking and then went for a walk to the shop and down to the beach. I hadn´t intended going to the beach, just to the edge of the dunes to see the water and come back to the hotel. Some 2.5 hours later having sunbathed the duration on the waters edge I was in dire need of more water and some shade. So much for the weather report. It hit 30 today. I now have a lovely base tan which considering I only have had one days sun is fabulous.

When my water was getting low I made the long walk back across the dunes. It was further than I had remembered. Passed some noisy obnoxious Mancunian gays on the way who had more camp than Christmas and G-A-Y combined. I grimaced at their mincing. Clearly I am a butch gay.

Spent an hour reading by the pool until my poor head was screaming at me for some shade. I made my way to the bedroom and discovered that I could sit on the balcony and sun while head could be out of the rays. Such a difference a pool facing balcony makes. In May we were road facing and had no sun.

Showered, changed and had dinner in the buffet. Half Board saves a fortune and I had a really nice meal washed down with some Sangria.

Tonight probably venture to the Yumbo centre. Does seem odd still being on my own. But my tan is great and I´ve made a good start on by book. Don´t forget your suncreen!

Gran Canaria here I come

I have to admit it was really weird saying goodbye and not having him come with me. I know he went away in July with his friends, but it doesn't make it feel any less odd. I just wish Mikey could have come too. He says he may be allowed next year if business picks up. Mikey, we miss you. Your a computer programmer, you can still do that and can afford holidays then!

Anyway, woke up this morning a little earlier than I had wished,(Must have been the excitement eh?) and having everything packed all I needed to do was wash, dress and decide if I had too much or too little luggage.

Dusan was working until 0100 bless him so was still fast asleep as I made my final preparations and got ready. I did of course wake him to say goodbye and as we hugged and kissed it reminded me of that feeling I had for so long in all those wonder years when he was stuck back in Croatia or on the ship. Still this trip is only for a week. It's funny isn't it how you quickly get into a routine. It wasn't that long ago I traveled the world alone, to the States and back for a four day mini break was all part and parcel. But this time I am going alone with 2 purposes. 1) have the most relaxing chilled time possible so that when I come back I am able to put my all into the project at work. 2) Have a good go at writing the next 10 chapters of the book I have started! I have the feeling the sunshine will give me inspiration, it usually does.

Doh, I should have had three points as the third would naturally be get a tan!

Having said goodbye to Dusan and took that long lonely walk up the garden path on a journey, alone for the first time in years. Was it nerves? Excitement? The buzz of travel? The fear of flying? The fact that we are apart is enough of an emotion. But as they say, absense makes the heart grow fonder. I walked to the bus stop and took the new East London overground to Norwood Junction, then a train to East Croydon and finally a train to Gatwick airport. Then the monorail to the terminal. One was impressed. They have upgraded it to a four car service and was really ultra modern. Not being a part of BAA is a fabulous thing and in the words of D-Ream, things can only get better.

Thankfully the checkin area was quiet and I was checked in and ready to go before you could say Jack Russell. Love the way that you can spot a gay couple a mile off. Not having eaten anything but a nectarine, I decided I would grab some food, but not impressed with the sandwich selection at M&S these days decided to wait till I was airside. (We call M&S Poo shop at work as it's sandwhich selection is just so far from appetising. While I am on the subject of M&S. How on earth did they win Sandwich Retailer of the year and Cheese Retailer of the year. How many M&S's have a cheese counter where you can buy your cheese by the weight? They are all pre wrapped. What were these awards? The M&S Awards? Oh and the award goes to us! Crazy.

Got in the queue for security and strangely it makes you nervous just standing in that line. They make you take off your belt, remove laptop from bag, take out any liquids. It's no wonder you are on a knifes edge by the time you get into the departure lounge.

I have to confess the North terminal is so much nicer than the South Terminal. Better quality dining and you don't feel like you are on stuck in a crowded space. I stopped briefly at the Channel counter to buy a nice bottle of their new fragrance Blue which is divine and then followed the signs for airport lounges. I checked in to the little Oasis of peace away from the hussle and bussle and chaos of the airport and into this private space. Quiet, free wifi, alcoholic drinks and snacks. Of course there are a couple of people you can tell are using the "Lounge Access" offer that even Easyjet sell these days. I would like to remind the lady in the electric pink shell suit that the dress code for the lounge is always smart casual.

I'm sat down now with a nice large merlot waiting for them to call my flight! Hoping for a timely flight, a smooth transfer and will hopefully be checked into my hotel alongside the beach by 2100. All I hope is that the sun shines. They forcast sun and unusually the weather channel displays the words "WINDY" where there is usually cloud, rain or sunshine icons. It says sunny and Windy. I'm guessing the beach will be like a sandstorm if it's that windy, so am grateful my hotel has sloping grounds which protects it mainly from the wind. Here's hoping it's a bon Voyage! Oh and Happy Birthday Richard!

Gills Birthday Bonanza

Wednesday was Gill Edward’s birthday (21 again) and in celebration Miss Mews & Mr Love were joining us for dinner and the first chance to meet Gill’s boyfriend that she had been dating many months now. It must have been quite nerve racking for him meeting so many of us at the same time.

David was delightful and you could literally see the joy he brings into Gill’s life and how happy she has been since she met him.

We met in Café Boheme in Old Compton Street and then headed over to Balan’s for dinner. We had a table reserved at the back in what always looks like the VIP area anyway. As David had never been before we told him it was strictly for VIPs. Our waitress, Elizabeth Camilla, looked after us Royally. But with two Royal names one would expect so. It makes a refreshing change to have someone so attentive and really cared about ensuring we all had a fabulous evening.

The only problem I have with Balan’s is ever having something other than the Thai Chicken Curry, which is so divine I order it virtually three quarters of my visits there. That said if it’s early, they do make a fabulous Egg’s Benedict.

Talking of eggs, my boss bought me in some of his home chicken’s eggs. I was told the shells and whites are particularly thick and that as such they would be perfect for poaching. He was right. They were delicious for breakfast yesterday. Thanks Ian.

Back in Balan’s, our server had picked up on the birthday and Gill’s dessert came out with a light candle and all of the VIP section joined in singing Happy Birthday.

David then was very naughty and paid for us all. It was very sweet of him and will find a suitable thank you to put in the post. Most of all, it was great to celebrate Gill’s birthday with close friends and so very nice to see the man that makes Gill so very happy. Happy Birthday Best Girl.

London Fashion Week

This week saw the return of London Fashion week when not a day passes without them talking about the fashion trends of the moment. Watching the catwalks on television was as close as I ever got. But for the past couple of years I have thankfully been invited by Neil & Jasper to view his latest fabulous collection.

You may recall Jasper Garvida who won Project Catwalk in the UK a couple of years ago. He is my good friend, Neil’s, partner, and as such I get an invite on occasion to go and view his latest collection as part of London Fashion Week.

The invites arrived in the week and I had invited Steph and her son Alex who is currently studying fashion. They arrived in a taxi about 10 minutes after I arrived at the venue. The Masonic Grand Lodge near Holborn. We stood outside for not more than a couple of minutes when one of the ushers asked if anyone had tickets. I was quite surprised that we were the only ones holding tickets and how few followed us through to the hall where we were asked to wait for a short while. It was an elegant ornate hall with intricate detail. Two televisions played London Fashion Week news and a glass cabinet held a dress on the far side.

Within five minutes we were ushered through to the catwalk. Our tickets being those with the green dot, meant we were ushered to some of the best seats, right in the middle of the catwalk. As the room filled I felt like I was Ugly Betty. No not unattractive but completely alien to these people whom to, fashion was everything.
Rarely do you see so many attractive people in the same room. Yet also so many fashion faux pars. But like I say, what would I know? It’s the gay gene I lack. The fashion & interior design one. No one has it all eh?

It was more than fifteen minutes after the scheduled start time that the show, sponsored by Miele , started. The lights dimmed, the sound of the music, provided by Alex Baker, boomed and the models made their way, dressed in Garvida , down the catwalk. His catwalk to me has Aztec tones and shades of Brown, Pink, Purple, Gold & Silver. All of the models wore bobs in white or pink, which to me, looked like a candy floss. I was tempted to buy one and stick it to my shaved head. Huh, howeasy is fashion to me .

Jaspers collection was amazing and the audience seemed to appreciate it. I really hope this is the one that kicks off the sales and he can really make it into his dream. In the mean time thanks to Neil & Jasper for the tickets and thanks to Steph & Alex for coming with me.

We ended up at Belgo’s for dinner and was home by 1030. Happy London Fashion Week!

Bletchley House

Once a year I go for a day trip somewhere different with my dear friend John Stratman. We have done a fabulous lunch at Harvey Nicholls Restaurant (not the Bistro), to a day at the Secret Nuclear Bunker, Kensington Palace and the Albert & Victoria Museum.

This year it was Bletchley House, the National Codes Centre. John having a keen interest in history took me around on a private tour, starting with the Enigma machine. A device that looked like a typewriter with ports plugged into it much like a server. These ports could be changed to change the code. Further more, across the top there were three dials which could be turned. There was a chart which indicated which setting each dial should be for each day of the year. And back during the war the Germans would send out their instructions on where their advances would be made via this machine.

It was on the site of Bletchley Park that during the war the code breakers finally broke the Germans code and thus were able to give us the upper hand. Of course, despite intercepting the messages and knowing what was going to come, they sent reconnaissance planes so that it looked like they found out that way.

Eventually they were able to use old GPO Parts as they were switching things from manual telephone exchanges to automatic so there were all these valves and switches that could be used to make a machine called Colossus which was able to read the messages intercepted from the Germans and eventually work them out. Colossus was effectively the world first computer. We also learned about Ian Flemming, who worked there and would eventually go on to write the books about a certain James Bond.

There was a huge hut that was filled to the rafters with Winston Churchill memorabilia that was all a Private Collectors exhibit. There was another collection of War Time radio’s and I got to try my hand at patching out a Morse Code Message on a Telegraphy machine.

It made me realise that these collectors, who were both present and happy to answer questions had spent their lives collecting these items. I can’t help but feel, that looking at the collections and seeing how passionate they were about them. The Winston Churchill collector said to us that it’s his personal collection, so feel free to ask any questions. Bless him.

From there we made our way to the History of Computers where I had reminisce looking at the Acorn Electron, Sinclaire Spectreme, Commodore etc. A room where they had servers as big as a washing machine that could hold 300MB. How times move on.

We had a lovely day discovering the code breaking secrets but most of all it was lovely to spend some time with John. I hope one day I can take him to a place where I know the story.

Tube Strike

Once aqain the Unions are determined to bring this country to its knees. Its almost crazy as you remember how delicate the economy has been and how we are now recouvering from the worst recession in a generation the unions are out for blood like it were 1970 all over.

Having virtually destroyed British Airways and with this morning even more strikes threatened by Unite for passengers flying over the Christmas period. Of course their timing is wise. December 12th - December 25th is one of only a few high season times where fares can be at their highest. By simply threatening a strike BA will loose Millions in potential revenue.

Meanwhile our magnificent Tube Service is up in arms over not actual but potential cuts in the future as Whitehall and the UK as a whole face cutbacks of 25-40% in every department to pay off the crazy excesses of New Labour - the party that bought equality at the price of bankruptcy.

At five PM the strikers started a series of what they call one day events only starting at 5 or 9PM mean that at least 36 hours of problems incure. All because TFL, (Tranport for London) and the tube manegement think it right to Axe 800 ticket counter staff who are 3 or 4 staff per office. Do I feel unsafe at Deptford station on my way home? No, not really. Is it staffed? No? Can we afford to go on paying over 30K for these people in such times of cut backs? No. Its not as if a single job cut is announced but the fact that the unions want to bring us all to our knees. So in the mean time I had to leave work early, will face lengthy delays in getting to work tomorrow and all because of Bob Crow and his union who seem to not so much represent the Union members but his own beliefs.

I have a dear friend, Mark, who works for the Underground. His been complaining his shattered as always has to work overtime. Infact the strike starts with an immediate overtime ban. What kind of operation has to rely on overtime to provide basic cover?

Like BA, its seems crazy. How can BA go on paying more than double other airlines pay? Will Unite send BA under? They cant sustain over £500 million losses every year.

Sometimes I think it would be best for BA to replace all their staff. Train new ones and get them ready then say "Goodbye" to the lot that are stiking.

In an era where just having a job is an effort alone with so many axed due to cut backs, why cant the unions be happy their people have a job? I know Londoners don't have sympathy for them. Maybe the tube upgrades will eventually get us driverless trains like on the DLR and we can save some money on the sevice. Maybe one day we can get rid of the little gate side Hitlers who are far from customer serviced. Another case of Only in England eh?

Toxic Hell

I think I have remembered why they call it Toxic Hell (Taco Bell). Firstly you have to face the cess pit that is the food court at Lakeside shopping centre. Think Trailer Park trash and pregnant teenagers and your halfway there. Clearly it is the Essex crowd that visit Orlando that they want to attract. Hmmm what was the word we had at Disney for Brits you would rather dissociate with? "Scuzzers!". The look on Dusan's face as we made our way through the food court was that of discust. Taco Bell sign looked familiar but the menu didn't display all they offered and so I didn't really know what to get when I was at the couter. Plus because they are in a food court you can't even choose your beverage and their soft drinks came in a size I would consider small if that. For a company ultimately owned by Pepsi co, I expected a larger choice of Beverage than Seven up and Pespi. I wanted Doctor Pepper and Mountain Dew. Sadly the British version is half lacking and lack lustre and for the time being until they finally open stand alone stores where you can get the real Taco Bell Experience think I will stick to the much better Tortilla. Check out www.tortilla.co.uk They have stores in Canary Wharf, Oxford Circus, Bankside, Islington and soon to open in Leadenhall Market and offer a proper Burrito. The one I had today was okay, but their Nacho's with synthetic cheese side were not great. Maybe I will feel different once they open everywhere, but I can't help but think that Taco Bell missed the Boat. Too little too late? Maybe I will think different when they are everywhere. Till the, thanks to the Gorgeous Kathleen for introducing me to Tortilla! :-)

Taco Bell

I have never understood why Taco Bell, which opened in Leicester Square in the 1980s had never made it in the UK. Maybe the 80s was simply too early for it and Britons with their fickle taste (They go on holiday and ask for Chips and Egg), maybe they were not ready for Tex Mex.

As the years passed and more and more mexican style places opened, Chillis, Whahaca, and more recently the fabulous Tortilla. They are popping up everywhere. Mexican Fast Food. Yummy. Its always been a faveourite of mine. I was so excited to read Taco Bell were opening at Lakeside. I mentioned this to my Californian friend at work and she said she missed it too. She was the one that told me about Totilla. A chain of four restuarants in London who make the most divine Burritos. Check them out at www.tortilla.co.uk. Meanwhile has Taco Bell missed the boat? A single store at Lakeside hardly will get the tills ringing in Central London. But hopefully they will spread out soon. Meanwhile I can't wait for my next trip East. I normally only stop at Lakeside for Ikea or Costco but now have a reason to pop in. Tex Mex. Yummy. Im dreaming of Nacho's supreme.

What happened to August?

Ever have a month that you seem to blink and you've missed it? August has been just like that. Perhaps it was that there are so many event's on and parties and celebrations along with Pride's and the nicer weather usually meaning that you want to be outside motre.

But August was odd in many a way. Firstly I caught a bug. I had thought it was the Norovirus (the vomitting bug) that often goes around cruise ships. But the symptons, while similar, only lasted for 24 hours. Waking with naseau and then without reason unable to stop vomiting for much of the morning before converting itself into a stomach bug that had you in and out of the bathroom for the rest of the day. 48 hours later it was all over, but and I felt normal, aside from the fact that not being able to eat my body was weak and the plans to go to Brighton for their annual pride were washed aside and a duvet day on the sofa was more than called for.

The following week Stuart and Iannis were due to come for dinner. Ocado had delivered all of the food that was needed to make a fabulous meal. Well blow me down if the same bug didn't hit me again on the Saturday morning. 24 hours again. While, my day was a write off and I really couldn't do much else other than lie in bed for the first day due to the nausea, I do believe you have to always look on the brightside. As Neil Sexton say's on the radio you have try and live POO. Always have a Positive Optomistic Outlook. So my silver lining was that somehow I lost nearly 7 lbs while having the bug.

When this past Monday, I did my weekly weigh in the scale recorded just under 83 Kilos. In Janurary after the Christmas & New Year break I weighed 93 Kilos', so have finally hit the 10 Kilo weight loss mark. My target was 10% of my body weight in the year and 9.3 Kilos takes me there. For those of you not in metric thats 22 lbs or 1 stone 8 Pounds. I have to say I love Imperial measures. My American friends have no idea how much is a stone, or a Kilometer or how much is a British Pint. It is rather odd though that their pints are different fro ours and they buy Ice Cream in Gallons. We used to buy petrol in it.

Thursday evening I arranged to meet Neil Sexton in Soho for a drink and a catch up. His a true friend, honest and caring and I'm still often amazed how one can go from being a listener of a radio station to close friend of the presenter. We met in the Village and had a couple of drinks as the rain poured down outside. Ten minutes after we arrived Gay Dave's boyfriend turned around and happend to be sittig on the table next to us (Kari). He said hello and moments later, Gay Dave was there. (Gay Dave is my friend from work. I have to call him something to differentiate from the other Dave's I know. We have BA Dave,AKA Davie Dong, Hairy David, Big David, and now Gay Dave. His not even camp, but I only give nicknames to the people I love. (I'm wondering why Linda at work call's me Doris?). We said hello and they lef not long after as Neil and I made our way up to a Japanesse canteen for some dinner. I always think its a sign that the food will be particuarly good when all of the staff and half of the customers are Japaneese.

Friday evening saw Richard and Mark (the Leather Queens), host their annual Cheese & Wine party at their home. This year they hired "Butlers in the buff" and three waiters were on hand wearing nothing but Bow Tie, Collar, Cuffs and an apron. Very Kinky. The lovely Floren was particuarly friendly and rather cute too boot. They ensured our glasses were never empty for too long. It was nice to see some of the gang all together again, Chris & Fillipe, Stuart & Iannis, lots of the girls from Richard's hospital (His a nurse), whom I see at all these events, at the Annual Ascot day etc but am terrible at remembering their names. I went outside and there was this young lad who introduced himself as Johnie and I recognised him. He used to come to Molton Brown Gentlemans Evenings I hosted. The lovely Johnie Boy. Was good to see him again.

Saturday I vegged all day and then in the evning had arranged a work friend, Helen (H)and her husband Graham (G), whom i'd never met before. We made a booking at a restaurant close to me in Greenwhich and arranged to meet at Greenwhich pier as they would take the clipper from London Bridge. The Rivington Grill is a new(ish) restaurant and part of La Caprice chain, owners of The Ivy. Was a very nice meal and good service and by meals end was utterly stuffed and far from ready to go out. Thankfully Stuart had postponed XXL and I came home to crash. On such a full stomach I was far from in the mood for dancing.

Today is August Bank Holiday, the weather is wet-ish and it seems a good month since Summer left and the rain hit us, still it was all looking dead and dry and we did have a nice long summer from May - July. I will miss the heat as the official start of Autumn kicks in but what can you do? Book a trip to gran Canaria maybe? Happy Bank Holiday.

Helen & Keely tie the knot

I still find it hard to believe how much the world has changed, for the better in such a short time. Yesterday was one of the most amazing days of my life and was only made permissible by many changes in law that the recent Labour government bought in. Most importantly the Civil Partnership Act of 2004. Finally giving gay couples the right to a legaly binding wedding equivalent.

When, finally, the law changed, Dusan and I finally got our dream and the chance to be together and much like our dream came true, yesterday it was Helens turn.




I have been honored to be invited to so many Civil Partnerships over the years, Richard & Mark's, Stuart & Iannis and of course our own. Like I said, so much has changed. When I first met Helen & Nick back in 2001, helen was straight and a party chick. We all met in Heaven through mutual friends and I ran into them a week later standing the queue. We all hit it off immediately. Helen and Nick shared a flat in Earls Court but with Nick about to go off to University, Helen needed to find a new home and I was looking for somewhere too. I don't think we had known each other 2 months when we started house hunting. How does the old joke go? What do Lesbians do on a second date? Move in. But she was my Alpha girl. This was back in the day when the internet was fairly new, we were pre 9/11 and somehow the world seemed a better place.

I can't quite explain the feeling when you meet someone and you feel a bond, like you knew each other in a different life or are destined to do more together. It was exactly like that the day I met Helen & Nick.

9 years on and some four years after her finding her true love she and her gorgeous lovely wife, Keely, decided to get hitched. There is something daunting about going to a loved ones wedding and not knowing their better half. What if, just what if, you feel something is wrong and they should not go ahead with it. What if when they say in the ceromony "Is there anybody here who knows of any unlawful impediment as to why these two, Helen & Keely, may not enter into partnership today. I always hold my breath at that point while poised on the edge of my seat incase somebody says something. The amazing thing is it reminds me of our own situation. Dear friends and family asking "Are you sure you want to get married so quickly". Worried love ons scared you are on a whim.



I reached Keighly station around 950PM and Helen had said she would come and meet me and take me to the pub. I waited 2 minutes and saw through the dark 2 shadows coming forth. As my eyes focused, I couldn't believe that Nick was over from Australia. Let alone coming to meet me at the station. I hugged them both long and hard, so happy to see them again then made our way a few minutes up the road to the Pub.




Immediately I met Keely there was a warmth, a glow. We both exchanged hellos but I was amazed she even knew my surname and much like I talk about dear ones, Helen had clearly mentioned me on occasion to Keely. Just watching the two of them together was enough proof for anyone that they were truly in love. Even today friends tell me how they can see Dusan and my love for each other. The way no matter where we are his admiring me from across the way. Even Richard and Mark (Leather Queens) who so kindly picked Dusan up from Heathrow on his arrival to the UK who initially we sceptical gave us their blessing in the understanding that just seeing two people together and how their own aura really stands out in a way you don't usually see. Like in the Readybrek adverts. Seeing Helen & Keely together was just the same.



In the pub met several other of their friends and Matt & Kal whom I have not seen in forever. How nice it was to see everyone again, meet new people and yet people that don't seem like they are new at all.

We all ended up in the hotel bar till far later than expected.



Friday Morning, wedding day, I woke with a mouth as dry as the Sehara. How much did I drink yesterday? I put it down to the air conditioning and lack of real air instead as I jumped in the shower, shaved and put on my three piece. It suddenly became clear to me that I had fallen into tourist mode and like a fool had no information. Helen had arranged everything. I didn't even know what time the wedding was, let alone where. Thankfully I spotted Huk & Jackie outside the window so joined them. There was something magical about Jackie & Huk, kind, warm, good folk. Great personality, uber glam and also down to earth. I shared a taxi with them to Riddleton Hall around 1330 and we all sat in wait for the Bride & Bride to arrive. It was a National Trust property and an old house with grand gothic fireplace was where the ceremony would be. As we walked in your senses went into overdrive with the smell of the flowers. Two looming bouquets either side (thanks to Matt's fabulous floristry), loomed 6 foot each over the room. Imagining an old Stately home's Library or study. A smallish room with grand fireplace and a dark tudor staircase up the edge on which a girl stood. As the music started this girl with voice of an angel sang a song about love, friendship & soul mates. You could hear the soft sound of sniffles and handkerchiefs being fluffed. Speeches from friends, a touching service and seeing these two beautiful girls, Helen & Keely, dressed to the nines, looking radiant, love filled and both happy and peaceful. By the end of the service I don't think there was a dry eye in the house.

Once they were officially Mrs & Mrs we all had some champagne and lovely appetizers while Matt & Kal peformed a mirical with the barn which had been transformed into a wedding party fit for any royal. A lemon theme existed in the floristry which was hanging on every wall, from every pillar as well as every centre piece. Then there were the 4 foot tall candelabras on the tables and a an amazing white tree with a Photo of each and every guest hanging from it with their table number.

We enjoyed dinner and then they started the speaches. Tears started to well up in most peoples eyes but not sad tears, happy tears. Happy for Helen & Keely, happy to be there and totally caught up in the love in it all. It wasn't just Helen & Keely, you could feel love from everyone. As Nick then Tracey, then Keiran followed by Keely & Helen did speeches everyone was both laughing and crying. It was an an amazing magical beautiful moment and as you looked around the room, you could just see love everywhere. Friends that care deeply for one another. Couples, parents looking after their children and the girls friends who were so warm and welcoming.


As the evening guests arrived there were people I had met through Helen over the years and then met Andrew V whom I have not seen in so long and his partner Spencer. It was so nice to see everyone again and I came to the realization that the feeling in the room, the tears and love all came from the fact that the souls in that room were all like souls. Clearly Angels attract Angels and positive attracts positive. It was such a calming feeling knowing how happy they will both bet in their lives with each other and all their loving friends.

Taking the train home this evening, I felt whacked but also like I had re-kindled friendships and made friend a new. We both wish Helen & Keely a wonderful life together full of love and joy and happiness and really look foward to seeing you all soon. Thanks a million for a perfect day.

Pride London

This year was the 40th Anniversary of the first ever Pride March in London. How so much has changed. Its hard to believe that 40 years ago even being homosexual was against the law in this land.

After coming out, I on occassions would march outside parliament demanding equality,and you know what, we got it. So a march that strarted to ensure that people could have a right to live the way they are is now, today, a grand parade through central London. So I made my way off to Regents Street, despite several attempts to wake Dusan, he was not having any of it. So off I went to making my way to the spot outside Hamley's where I hooked up with Lee, Matthew & Chris, where we waited and chatted as the crowds gathered until the first float came along. It was a spectacular two hour parade this year. Float after float, and when the Army, Navy and Airforce came past everyone really cheered out of respect for our boys and girls that are away fighting for our land.

Neil Sexton was marching but left the parade at our point and hooked up with us and shortly after, my friend Steph's son arrived. His only 16 and only came out a few weeks ago. He had some lesbian friends with him. His first pride and he wanted to come hang with me. I'd best be on my best behavior.

Once we wandered down to Soho and hooked up with my dear friend Emily, and from there wandered down to Traffalgar Square, to watch the live stage. From there we headed to Soho Square where my work friend Lisa joined us. It was a shame Emily had left already, I know they would have really got on well.

For once the sun shone the whole day and that is amazing. Made you feel really good to be surrounded by so many other gay people and realise life is good, life is for living and we sure do live a great life. Happy Pride.

Catching up with dear friends

Having not seen Marcus Chops in what seemed and age and with the rare event that Dusan had the entire weekend off we booked a last minute hotel and headed down to Cardiff for the weekend.

Arriving close to midnight chops was clearly excited to see and us was waiting at the hotel when we arrived. He seemed so excited it reminded me of Tigger bouncing around. :-)

Once unpacked we all headed into town to go to a bar or a club. Maybe I am just getting old or cynical but it felt to me like we were stepping into an episode of Hollyoaks and despite the fact it was a gay club, there seemed to be be more straight women than men, immediately making me feel outside of my comfort zone. After two drinks we all decided we would rather just chill in the hotel.

Saturday, it being Wales, we decided to make a trip to "Big Pitt", the National Mining Museum. We were taken on an hour underground tour on what was once one of the biggest coal mining pits in the land, only closing in the early 1990s after the Thatcher Scargil era. Our tour guide took us, hard hat & light and all on an hours walk around through the mine, down the shaft and into the tunnels, stables exploring what was once a working mine. He himself having worked the mines as did most of the people in the area.

Exhausted when we got back we stopped and bought some drinks for the room and chilled a bit before heading back into town for another night out. A different club, but same as night before. Hen Nights, Straight Women everywhere, even though it was a gay venue. Really made you realise how provincial and different from London everything is out of the Capital. Kicking ones heals together and repeating, Theres no place like home, theres no place like home.

It was lovely to see Marcus again on his own turf. His always visiting us.

Last Saturday was the Clapham Street party and I was invited to a party before at my work friend, Jacqui's. Met up with David on the way and headed for cocktails before. We were trying Pimms made with Champagne. Yummy.

By 1600 we tried to enter the street party but now in its 6th year the place was heaving and over an hour line to get in, so instead we headed to Two Brewers and had a fun time anyway. Thanks to Jacqui for the invite and a great afternoon.

Saturday evening I had to head back to Hertfordshire, for a surprise 65th Birthday Party for my Uncle Terry. Not a real uncle but always felt like Family. Linda, Terry, and their three Children grew up with my brother and I and it was lovely to see them all again. Felt like such a trek at 1030 to take the train back from Herts to SE London, but worth it just to see everyone once more.

Finally, yesterday went to see Woody & Steve and their babies (Dogs), Milly, Molly Olly & Lucy too. Been far too long and was so good to see them again and hopefully wont be so long next time. Feels like I really have caught up with old dear friends again. Plus summer well and truly is here :-) Hot enough for you?

Fever

It seems the world has gotten World Cup fever and I seem to be the only person who doesn't give a hoot and would be happier if it was a year of the Eurovision Song Contest as opposed to the sport I have always disliked. Soccer. (I can hear them at work cursing me now with "Its Football", they hate when I use Americanisms. They have recently added to the words I miss pronounce, Baroque, which I always pronounce, Be-roke (Cos as I always say, if it ain't broke, don't fix it). It came after I looked up the town Dusan said he went to school in and read on Wiki that it was a Baroque city. Sadly he said the beauty that once was had been much destroyed during the civil war and I was left of an image not dislike Naples. A place where a former glory had once been and was fading into dissrepair.

Meanwhile work have been installing 42" LCD televisions around the building and even streem the matches to every PC in the building so people can watch from their desks. Hello, you don't stream the latest Lady Gaga video, or the latest gossip or even the news. Its like everyone is obsessed. But for once I just am resigned to the fact that they talk about the game every day as it is, for one month only I will have to put up with it all and rather than fight it, I will relish it.

Starting Thursday I went in with a new England Coffee Mug and was the first to take in a flag (Albeit the Stars & Stripes for I could not find my St. Georges). Then Dusan came home with car window St. Georges flags. Suddenly I was singing "Where playing for England, Eng-ger-land, were playing our song", and the idea of some bunting suddenly made me come to the realisation that I may not like the game, I may not like the sound of the chanting (it reminds me of all the riots that football used to bring on), but at the end of the day, the opening ceremony, all the World in attendance, the fact its watched by a billion people and we all get to put out bunting. I think gay men like bunting almost as much as they like Kylie and Musicals. Which makes me really wonder how I missed out on the whole of the Glee phonominon for so long. Apparantly this is the second series. I love it. I wish my life were like glee. I could burst into song spontaniously at any minute. Oh wait, I do that anyway.

Amazing how the weather can affect your mood. Arrive at work and the sun is shining, its 25 degrees and you know the mercury will hot 30+ and you smile all the way through the morning. When its grey and miserable you feel drained and sapped.

Workouts have been going well. In the process of upping my workouts to 4 x 45-60 mins workout per week of cardio. I have a target of 80 Kilos in the next three weeks, which my boss tells me is possible. It necessitated a lunch time dash to the gym for an uber workout. I was so surprised how packed the gym was at lunchtime. Spinning was full, the cross trainers were full, it was busier than rush hour in the evening. Working out at lunch means I can come straight home but will need to work later to get all my hours in. Still job done by half one. Of course rushing to get back to work I didn't cool down properly and by the time I had ridden the tube for three stops was covered in droplets of perspiration all over my forehead.

A big week ahead. I have a zillion little projects to do but it will all fall into place soon enough. Hopefully a holiday will be found before the summer is out too. Why does GC seem an age ago?

Dinner with Emily & Mr Love

Friday evening, having had what seemed a long week (we had a serious deadline to get everything ready by close of business Friday. It was nice to head out of the office with perfect blue skies and the sun shining. I was supposed to meet Dusan and hed to Emily & Colin's for dinner but Dusan had a migrain so had to bail.

Made my way to Tooting and sat and sipped Champagne cocktails enjoying the last of the sunshine. Emily cooked a lovely fresh pasta and chocolate pudding was great to see Colin again and have a good catch up. Before I knew it the time it was approaching midnight and the evening was over. Sign of a good night when it goes so fast.

Meanwhile, Tuesday evening I took my boss for a thank you dinner at the Ivy. I have to confess, its still my favourite restaurant in London and definitely a place to go when you want to treat someone or have a visitor in from over seas.

We enjoyed a fabulous four courses and some nice drinks too pairing our choices with our dishes with the aid of our waitress.

Why is it that the weather was near perfect all week and then come Saturday it clouds over and gets really humid. I woke yesterday and found it was an airless day. Too hot to sit on the sofa, I would literally be dripping in perspiration if I did. So to escape the heat I went off to the gym. May as well burn some calories as well as escaping the humidity. Something is paying off as seem to be down 10 kilos on the weight I was at the start of the year. I was so grateful that the train from London bridge was air-conditioned. By the time I left the gym, the cloud had broken and let in some air. It was still a barmy 21 degree's at 1AM despite it having rained.

Oh well, it's only June, plenty more chance for a long hot summer.

Gran Canaria

I think I must have been one of the very few gay people on the planet who had never visited Gran Canaria or any of the Canary Islands so when we decided for a May Break, it seemed to be the ideal place to go. Some 1000 miles south of Europe and about 100 miles off the west coast of Morocco we decided to head there for the tail end of Gran Canaria Pride. Would have gone for the whole of Pride if it had not been for 2 colleagues at work already booking the same week off (How very dare they!).

Due to Pride our first choice of resorts were all full so settled for the Hotel Catarina just 2 minutes from the beach on the main strip. A four star, Air Conditioned Hotel which was half board.

I swear, considering it was a straight resort, you have never seen so many gay people in your life. Sat in the restaurant at dinner virtually 75% of people were gay couples. Sat amongst the remaining 25% of German pensioners. Will definitely return and stay at a Gay Resort.

The Island is small but none the less stayed at the souther resort of Playa das Ingles, famous for its Sand Dunes and the Yumbo shopping centre. A 1960s shopping complex by day and filled with gay bars & clubs at night.

The weather was a barmy 30 Degrees most days with near perfect blue skys. On the Monday while enjoying a drink at Construction Bar, Gavin & Martin stopped to say hello. Not seen either at home in months, but lovely to run into them again.

Meanwhile, back at home the weather followed us. Its been 30 degrees here in London over the weekend, although has cooled a little yesterday. Seems quite tropical and reminds me of Florida, leaving for work knowing that the 20 degree heat at 7AM is the all day low. Marvellous.

Will definitely be heading back to GC, if for nothing for the weather. Infact I think my remaining holidays this year will be spent on the sunny Isle. Gran Canaria in Sept/ Nov & Feb anyone? :-)

Don't waste your vote!

Make sure you vote today. I won't say who for, just don't waste your vote. Remember the bigots will vote and we don't want the BNP!

Best wishes!

2 Days to the Polls

Only two days to go for what will no doubt be the closest election in my lifetime. All I can remember is landslide wins. Born to a Tory government and the years under Lady Thatcher. You can't help but admire the Woman for all she did. Standing hard as only the iron lady could against the Unions and the year long Miners Strike. I remember the sell off of British Gas (If you see Sid, tell him), I can rememeber marching outside Parliament for equality in the late 90s and marching for student rights and chanting "Education is a right, is a right, is a right, Education is a right, not a privelidge" Of course the teachers were always on Strike in my day, but we seem to have lost more time to bomb hoaxes. I recal time after time when we suddenly heard the bells sounds and were evacuated out of the building. Fire Fighters and Police Officers in the hallways shouting at you, "Get Out, Get away from the building, Go Home". You know something is not right when there are officials in the building. Of course, it was a Hoax, I believe the last time it happened they did find a device in the refectory, complete with wires and batteries. It turned out the Ice Cream Tub on the refectory table was filled with Potatoes. Still got me out of my Maths exam at the time.

Seems a bit odd how we all were against the Tories at the time. Not so much because they stood for things we didn't believe in (As is the case with Labour these days), but because they had been in power for so long. I grew up only ever knowing Thatcher being in power. Infact I can remember I was at work the day she retired. My entire life she was the most powerfull person in Britain.

Today I feel its for a different reason we are against labour. Despite their intentions and their good will, the countries near £900 Billion national debt means far from govern over our nations finances Mr Brown royally screwed up, proving that a Labour Government can not even manage the kitty, let alone the country. Sorry Mr Brown, if you have to borrow hundreds of Billions and throw away your own rule against borrowing more than 40% of GDP, well you hardly managed our economy. Whoever wins on Thursdays election will have years of thrift to make up for your complete catastrophe as Chancellor / PM.

It seems odd that we could end in a hung paliament, with so many dissatisfied with the bodge of things you have done. Knife & Gang Crime out of hand, a Mayor with no power, Police that would rather stand by and watch a boy die as Health and Safety says they can not save him. The boy at school whos Cheese Sandwhich was taken away because it had no salad. WTF! Stop being Big Brother, start watching the pennies and cutting back on non essential spending, cut the Quangos, cut the red tape, start to make a difference.

Whoever wins will have to face the facts that we are up the creek financially, but do your part and vote. Its the last right we all have. Don't sit on the sideline and think they are all worthless, your vote counts. Use it!

Wanted for crimes against Britons

Wanted for Crimes against Britons. Use your vote wisely. Remember a man who once said I bought an end to an era of Boom & Bust, just months before the worst economic melt down in our lifetime.

A man who decided to sell Britain's Gold reserves when it was a mere $265 an ounce, a historical low, when today its trading at around $1200 an ounce. This was the man trusted to manage the countries treasury? Meanwhile our annual budget deficit is over £180 Billion and the total just short of £900 Billion of national debt. Correct me if I am wrong but that's hardly a man that managed to balance the books. Infact, we are likely to be up the creek without a paddle for many years to come thanks to this man's incompetence.

Don't let us forget that despite promising us a referendum on Europe he signed away more power to Eurocrats and signed us up to the EU Constitution that noone I knew wanted, yet he signed it away, as though it didn't matter. Even David Cameron stated after the event, there is little they can do to reverse it once he'd signed the treaty.

More recently Bigotgate. Stopped on the street by a 65 year old pensioner who wanted to talk about the economy and immigration, things that are on all our minds. The two faced Prime Minister dared turn around and under baited breath called her a biggot? The man whom is known to be a bully in Downing Streen dares call a pensioner a bigot just because she's worried about immigration. Walk down our street and British natives are the rarity, much thanks to Brown Blunders and allowing hundreds of thousands of immigrants in year after year.

He screwed up the finances, he screwed up the country, crime is out of control and if you really want to make a difference the only option is to vote anything but Labour. I almost feel like after all they did for gay rights, equality, the repeal of section 28, the introduction of Civil Partnerships, I am turning my back on them. Too right I am. For years I have felt the country was falling into disrepair while taxes rise, 5 Million unemployed become the benefit nation and while if you are hard working, good honest citizens, you are penalised in taxes on fuel, booze and anything you like.

A vote for Brown & Labour will bankrupt this country, make us all poorer and possibly the next to follow Greece. While I know they have their faults the alternives shine Brightly and are less likely to cause harm to dear Blighty.

Whatever you do, don't waste your vote. The Bigots of the country won't. Use your constitutional right and vote for whoever you think will do the best job!

BBQ on Steve's roof terrace

I can't believe its been nearly a year since I last saw Steve. I can tell you the date, approximately as it was the Eurovision Song Contest night and we sat and watched the show while we partied. Well you can't miss Eurovision can you?

Steve sent out an invite late on Saturday evening, BBQ at mine tomorrow as the weather is supposed to be divine. Of course it was and so I messaged to say I would come.

His apartment is fabulous. Views of both the city & Canary Wharf and a roof terrace that is nearly the size of my apartment. It was great to see all the of Gaybours, Blake & Ian, Pete, Mike and of course Steve & Guy. How weird is that Steve is dating Guy, who I know through Mikey from years of old. Six degrees of seperation I guess.

We stood out in the sun, watching the cloudless skies and commenting on how quiet things were without the planes and wondering is that cloud, over there, the misty haze near Canary Wharf a cloud or volcanic ash?

More food, more drink more friends, and a beautiful sunny day. What more can one ask for on your birthday bonanza fortnight. Yes fortnight. Doesnt everyone celebrate for 2 weeks?

Lunch with Best Girl & Miss Mews

My dear friend Emily invited me for a birthday treat to a surprise Birthday lunch, in that the location was to be the surprise. I was simply told to be at Gloucester Road at 2PM Saturday, where I met up with Miss Mews & Best Girl (Gill) and walked about 10 minutes down the main road and then left into a Mews and there was our restaurant. A fabulous little boutique restaurant where we enjoyed some fabulous wine, fabulous food in fabulous company. Even JFC was nowhere to be seen. :-) (Emily will understand that one).

Having fine dinned we went to a Gastro Pub and enjoyed a nice New Zealand Savingnon blanc and by then we were all rather fluffy.

Dinner at Stuart's

Having not seen Stuart & Iannis for a good six months, it was a real treat when Stuart invited us to dinner to celebrate my birthday on Friday evening.

I arrived just before 8PM and the fabulous and my dear dear friends the Leather Queens, aka, Mark & Richard.

As soon as I arrived I was forced to drink Champagne, (Well if you must), then we went through to the dinning/kitchen are.

The table was laid to perfection. But what would you expect from a gay couple? I swear if one more gay person moves into Kennington a Waitrose will open. We enjoyed a gorgeous meal, absolutely divine, and learned that Stuart had taken a day off to make the food and prepare everything to help celebrate my birthday. How can you respond to that? His a dear friend, but to take time off to make a meal for us in my honour, how lovely is that? I've always believed the best gift you can give anyone is your time. He did us proud. The Lamb was to die for and I think I ate 10 Roast Potatoes. Oops/ Ever better I still weighed over half a kilo less Monday than I did Friday. (We do our team weigh in on Mondays).

Dessert arrived as a giant cup cake which Stuart pain stakingly made to the recipee. I have to confess it did look exactly like the picture. They really did us proud. It was a fabulous evening with fabulous friends. Thanks to Stuart & Iannis for their hospitality and treating me to a birthday dinner party in such style.

Happy Birthday to me

What age is it really that you start to not so much look forward to birthdays but see it as another year older? Next will be buying shoes and declaring, "Oh don't they look compfortable?"

Woke and opened the cards I had been saving that had arrived during the week. Checked all of my online messages and made my way to work at the slightly later time of 9AM. Well it was my birthday

Work decided to up my age everytime they talked to me. I think they got to mid forties before they gave up. What a flipping liberty ;-)

Meanwhile had a nice day at work, seemed to fly by. Once the working hours were done Adam and I made our way to a pub in Saint James, where we were joined by colleagues, Ian, Claire and Adam's girlfriend Avery. Dusan arrived at just after 7PM where we made our way to the restaurant, La Duca. Meaning the Duke. Funny as that's one of my nicknames.

Aside from everyone arriving at the same time and the service not being overly fabulous, the food was delicious and very well presented and was clearly a very nice establishment.

We ate, we drank nice wine and we celebrated in style, plus with Claires card we got a 25% discount over the whole bill. Bargain!

Arriving home at around 1215, I had the feeling waking tomorrow would be no easy task!

Birthday Bonanza

Look out, in a few moments I will post my Birthday celebrations! Hip Hip Horray!

Remembering the magic

Hard to believe its been a week almost since we returned from Berlin. The time really flies. Its vitually mid April yet seems yesterday that it was Christmas and new year. Is that a sign that I am getting old?

As my birthday week approaches and in the anniversary week of my 15th anniversary since moving to Orlando and a once in a lifetime opportunity to go and represent Walt Disney World as a cultural representitive. 15 years ago I was a young man, insecure, lonely, not sure where I was going in life, but with a dream of going to work for Disney in the States. 15 years on, that dream is now in the past, but I did it. At 22 I proved to myself that no ambition in life is too great. Nothing you set your mind to you cant achieve. I guess that ambition has always been my great driver in life. Call it a chip on my shoulder, but its what keeps me strong. The want to always achieve ones goals. Maybe it was driven from the fact that I always wanted Mum & Dad to be proud. They never drove us to do anything we didnt want to, yet at the same time I wanted to prove that I was a success of my own. I will never forget the day Mum said to me, "You left home many years before you moved to America. You left home that first time you went on your own at 15. That was when I let you go. I would have never let your brother go at that age. But somehow Neil, with you it seemed right. I let you go cos I trusted you and it was what you wanted. Since that day, you have never had your head at home". Leaving home just the day after my 22nd Birthday to move to Orlando, Florida, is a huge step for anyone. No matter what age. But for a young, fresh 22 year old it was an adventure I would never forget. A journey that would take me from boyhood to manhood in a short 15 months. A journey where I would make friends like I had never known. Where I would have more fun than I could believe was possible in a lifetime let alone during a Disney Internship.

I never slept a wink the night before. I can remember clearly, I was too excited. I couldn't sleep. More than just excited, apprehensive. I wasn't just moving out, I was moving 8000 miles away. To a place where I knew nobody. Where I didnt have a clue what would happen, what would be, but something inside me knew it was what I was always born to do. It would end up being the deffinitive transition in my life that made me the man I am today.

I have to thank Sue Sharp, Annie Goldberg and the International Casting team for the opportunity they gave me that day. I remember seeing my interviewer, Steve, some 18 months after my interview. I wanted to thank him personally for the opportunity and tell him how much it had meant to me. During our conversation, I asked, inquisitivly, "At what point did you decide to offer me the job?". His reply will remain with me forever. "You don't know?". He asked. "I had decided you were a yes the minute you answered the first question. Why do you want to work for Walt Disney World? You said, "Because Disney are the best in the business and I want to be a part of the best and be able to create magic like you do everyday". He said, that was when I decided Neil, and I don't regret it. Glad to have you onboard.

Packed, excited and nervous, Mum & Dad kindly drove me to Londons Heathrow airport ready to catch my Delta Airlines flight to Orlando with a stopover in Atlanta. I could never work out why they wouldnt fly us direct but as they had provided everything from the visa to the airplane ticket down to my own shared appartment, who could argue? Checked in ready to go I made my way to the security point of the airport, Mum & Dad taking me all the way. As I kissed them goodbye, it would be the first time in 22 years I had ever seen Mum cry. My adventure began and the full details of which I will, I promise one day write in full. But that remains for yet another tale.

The moral of the story being, if you dream it and want it, you can achieve it. I would say to any younger person if you get a chance to move abroad so young, take it and embrace it, for you will grow far greater than any other experience. The friends I made and I all grew up together. Not just emotionally but all ways you can imagine. If I show you a picture of me in May 1995 and one in May 1996 with my Disney pals, you would argue we all aged 5 years. Not in a bad way, but you loose your inhibitions, you grow into who you will be for the rest of you life and you appreciate cultures and challenges and wonders and magic. I had the time of my life. I will never forget those days for the rest of my living days. The magic, the friends, the wonders we experienced and the greatest adventure for far of my life.

Meanwhile, back in Blighty, yesterday I had a lovely lunch with Steph at a French cafe at Bluewater and then a lovely night at Sweat - the foam party with Richard and Mark. Chilling today and relaxing it's been a great weekend as the spring weather finally arrives.