People who are regular visitors to the blog and people who know me generally, know how much I love nature. Last night before checking in to the Hotel on the NSW North Coast at Port Macquarie I was amazed at the light fantastic I witnessed in the sky above me. I just loved the view. I took a couple of pictures at sunset, the first two images, and the next two are from Sunrise over the beach a few hours ago. The pink rim you see in the sky (picture #3) lasted 5 minutes only and then went yellow for a minute or so then all colour went away from the sky altogether. Even now as I write this, it is still cloudy, but I witnessed and captured the rich beauty which you can see. I loved that I was there and most of the tourists were back at work, leaving the town a little less crowded. Now back in Sydney, I am kicking back before going to New Zealand.
Sunrise, Sunset
The Winner takes it all
It has been a reflective journey of sorts over the last little while for me. I have been pondering about life. I find it curious and interesting, that people who are gifted with talent in some form or other are rarely appreciated whilst they're alive. When you think about it, Elvis Presley who died some years ago, is more popular today, and has amassed more of a fortune now than whenever he was alive. Van Gough's masterful paintings fetch multiples of millions of dollars today and yet this individual couldn't scratch two coins together to survive or subsist. A photograph recently featured in a documentary on SBS (a multi lingual international TV station in Sydney) sold for $1.2 million. It is a picture of the moon through the trees. An exceptional picture and fetches an amount of money that is phenomenal. Yet, again the person who took the picture is no longer with us. I have heard the saying, a person is never a prophet in his own country. I could be paraphrasing that somewhat, but you get the gist I suspect. Am I the only one who finds this curious? Why are people rarely appreciated while they are alive?
That said, there are a great many artists in music, painting, photography, dance, theatre and many other fields of human endeavour who do receive accolades, adulation and money whilst they are alive. I raise the topic as a way of trying to reconcile and understand the apparent fickle finger of fate or destiny. My friend Robyn Loau with her singing has been able to scale the dizzying heights in some measure with the all girl band of some years ago, of which she was a key figure, and yet still remains largely a mystery to the majority of musical audiences. I nominate her in this discussion because she is loaded with talent and personality. I love her as a person and her voice, musical interpretation and style is unquestionably up to par with what the industry demands, yet why does she remain largely unnoticed? I know there are people who are rising higher in that industry with less talent and natural ability. It could be a combination of who they know, or a combination of what they are prepared to do to get there. I am confident there are many factors, yet my question remains.
I was told one time of a managerial meeting of a major retailer in this country, who in the middle of a meeting with senior management asked them at random, what they would be prepared to do to keep their positions. Some answers were given which, I believe were basic and average. The doors were opened and in walked a group of young would be managers and they were asked, "What would you be prepared to do to get these managers jobs?" their answer? "Anything!" WOW. Make no mistake, I am not sanctioning or condoning the strategy, but isn't it powerful to see what some people are prepared to do. Anything!
I look around me at the style of tv shows we seem to be fed of late. The shows where people are hooked up to a lie detector and then asked intensely personal questions in front of partners, family or friends. The object of this show is to ridicule and demean actions or situations and turn personal errors or relationships into some sort of morbid sport and curiosity. I have not watched, nor will I. Well you might be to ask, is that because I would be afraid I would be found out? nah, I will answer any question asked me privately. I just think that the insatiable desire for tv execs and people generally to pit people against each other for ratings and adulation is obscene. In shows like "So you think you can dance", "It Takes Two", "America or Australia's Got Talent" "American or Australian Idol" they at least offer a chance for people to strut their stuff and are allowed to showcase their talent for their peers or home audience to judge. Whilst other shows like "The Mole", "Survivor", "The Weakest Link", "The Biggest loser" and a couple of others seem to simply use the guise of a scenario and a large reward to be the grain of sand to create a pearl in a shell for the contestant. Does that reward and opportunity for one, justify the many who lose? What is the cost?
We have all seen the intense and emotional heartache and burn out for some losing contestants who feel that their dreams are dashed. Some of these people may never ever rise again because the pain of loss and the feeling of rejection is real and some will wrap themselves in cotton wool so that they never have to endure that again. I once worked with a man who shared an experience with me when he was on the swimming pool blocks of a race in England as a young man. The race was to determine the entrant in the national swimming competition, and ultimately to find the national British champion. He described it to me. "There I was on the blocks, tense, ready to go. The starter called out on your marks and fired the starter pistol. The race began in earnest but I stayed on the blocks. I froze." Those feelings live with him today. By his own admission whenever he has the chance to shine he always thinks about the blocks and how that felt. He rehearses those feelings and his life continues to be polarised in a large measure. I said to this man. "Get off the blocks! start swimming" It's never too late in my mind. We are truly only ever racing ourselves in the end.
An Australian bank had a TV campaign once that showed the olympic Gold medal winners and then asked the question does anybody remember who the silver medal winner was? My post today is designed I guess to express my feeling for those who may not win in the TV show forums or in the way we might hope to in life. Never give up. Having faith in yourself, and in what you can do and in striving to make what you hope and imagine come to pass is where the magic of life, of discovery and of achievement truly occurs.
Abba sang a song once called the Winner Takes it All, the loser's standing small, beside the victory, that's our destiny. Is it?
I would like to hope not. I admire people, myriads of them, who strive each day to achieve something. It may not be in the annuls of history, or be found in the pages of lore, but the will to do something that lifts others and make life a little better is admirable and of great inestimable worth. I think of the Mothers who raise children in an environment of love, Fathers who strive to make ends meet, and the many elements of society and of life who each play their part seemingly independent of one another and how wonderfully those threads weave together the tapestry we call life.
It is my hope today that for each of us who desires to reach for the goal, whatever that goal may be, that we continue to do so. Remember the immortal words from William Jennings Bryan;
"Destiny is not a matter of chance, it is a matter of choice; it is not a thing to be waited for, it is a thing to be achieved."
It may not take a TV show, it may take a lifetime of trying and for some it won't, but whatever it takes make the choice. Or as Shakespeare added;
"What ere thou art, act well thy part".
The picture today is of one of my many nieces, Chloe Fontaine. Whom I will be seeing in a couple of days time. She too has a goal, and it is my fervent desire that she may also touch the world with her talents. May we all.
A question of value
What a great day today. I went to the Sydney Royal Easter Show with the family in Homebush or the former Olympic Park. It was great weather, Sun was very warm, but in the shade, the slight breeze was welcome and lovely. I enjoy the carnival like atmosphere, at least in short bursts. I was horrified at the cost of snacks or food there. I say that not because I am cheap, but because it's about the value for me, and there was little value on offer at the places I saw. There was little or no nutritional value on things that could loosely pass as food, and the cost for a lamb kebab, a small bucket of chips or fries and two drinks 1x coke and 1x water was $21! Like a chump, I paid it! I kept on thinking that could mean 3x T-Bone steaks from my butcher! Maybe I am getting old. I thought I would share a couple of pictures here that I took today.
The contents and cost of one of the showbags. They are nothing like I remember when I was younger. There is little or no value. Or is it that perhaps my parents thought the same thing back then also?
Rides at the show
I also wanted to share two of the best films EVER made, in my humble opinion anyway. It just so happens that they are Italian foreign language films and were so beautiful. I think the first one, Cinema Paradiso is my ALL Time favourite film. I watch it every 18 months - 2 years and still get misty as I watch it. I cannot recommend this film more highly. I know that those of my friends who have bothered to see it don't like it, excepting a few. You know something? that is fine by me! We all love things that not everyone else will like or "get" but if you ever want to see a film that I believe most sums up how I feel about simplicity, beauty, love and life, this film has it all for me. One of the great strengths of this film is the musical score. It evokes many feelings to me. Written by famed composer Ennio Morricone, it is exquisite! I hope you enjoy the second clip as well.
5 out of 5
The Second film I just love is another film you either love or hate. It is a juxtaposition in the title Life is Beautiful, when in a situation that is anything but beautiful. Roberto Begnini has managed to create a character and a story that is worth telling. Roberto's speech when he received the Academy award was nothing short of inspiring. I loved his comment to his Mother and Father when he noted the best gift he ever received of them was the gift of poverty. Another contradiction in terms, yet a comment saturated with appreciation and love for life, it's lessons and a love of everyone. He says it best, when he says, "it's always a question of love".
4.5 out of 5
watch the 3 minutes, it is truly one of the most magic acceptance speeches I have ever seen.
Easter from the lounge lizard
What a great weekend! I have done almost nothing at all! I did a family photo shoot for Robyn, Carol (written about previously on the blog) and their families on Friday evening, and a family photo shoot for another family on Saturday morning. Apart from that I have watched several movies and just became a lounge lizard for the past few days. I loved every minute of it. I think my body was telling me I needed some R&R. I feel great today. I have another full and exciting week this week. I was able to finish two weddings worth of pictures this morning, which I am about to go and deliver. Plus, I was able to complete a family picture of the Christening of a client called the Scarano family. I am going to show the picture I did for them below. One of the weddings I did was for Rohan & Jaclyn Baker who got married in Byron Bay at the beautiful Byron at Byron. A stunning place set in the midst of a rainforest and is in my humble opinion worth every cent of the $2,500 for a three night stay!! Just gorgeous. I cannot believe there is no footage of it on You Tube. If not I will add my video footage taken soon and upload it here and to you tube.
Plus a review of some of the movies I viewed.
The Brave One
A film starring Jodie foster. A great film. It caused me to look inwardly and recognise things a little more deeply. Feelings and emotions that exist and can sometimes cause you to overlook the sensitivities of others, and blind you to the things we feel within. I don't mean to sound cryptic, it was a great film. Whilst I love to see the bad guys "cop it" in the end, it still causes me much reflection about the nature of revenge and whether it is ever "right", or excusable. It was a good film on different levels for me. I will be thinking on this for some time.
4 out of 5
Thr3e
An interesting film. I am not a fan of evil in any form. I am however aware of it's existence and found the film an interesting expose into the evolution of carelessness, hatred and bitterness that developed into chaos and heartache. I relaise that whilst the film is not what I would recommend as a mainstream go getter, we have seen recently from around the world a couple of cases where children have been abused and have grown into people they would not wish to be, had the catalyst been different. I once spoke with a psychiatrist, not professionally, but over a conversation and he described the difference to me of mental conditions and scenarios the mind can create. It was very interesting. There is so much I don't know. Not a film for everyone.
3 out of 5
Reversible errors
A movie starring Tom Selleck, Felicity Huffman, William H. Macy. This looked and felt like a made for TV movie. I guess the absence of a trailer on the net would seem to confirm that. It was not a big budget film in my opinion. That said, I found it to be a simple film that slowly got me in. Mind you I was watching it from 6am until about 8.30am and therefore what else was on over easter worth watching at the time on the am clock! It was a story about truth, hope, love and even despair. I wonder how many people serve time in prison for things that they honestly didn't do? Of course, all of them!!!
2.5 out of 5
Rescue Dawn
A film starring Christian Bale. Not a spectacular film, but because it was based in truth, that alone made it interesting. I liked it. Not much to say apart from the indomitable human spirit within each of us to survive. Worth a watch.
3 out of 5
I haven't said much about the Easter season and the feelings I have from a Christian stand point that I have. Primarily I haven't added this because my blog is not a platform for intensely personal, political, or religious feeling. Though, as the blog IS a reflection of my thoughts and feelings on different topics, a cursory note would be appropriate to suggest my gratitude for Jesus who in an incomprehensible way to me, bore my infirmities and imperfections. Easter is the time when I reflect about what that sacrifice means to me. That's all. No I didn't eat lots of Easter Eggs. I ate some pieces, but not much. I did however indulge a little into Homer Hudson's strawberry and Chocolate ice cream. YUMMO!!!!
Ian Moss rewind
I photographed a musical event here in Australia last year when a group of prominent Australians get together and donate their time and talents to assist genetic research for the Children's Medical Research Institute (CMRI). 60% of the CMRI's annual funding comes from this one fund raiser every year which lasts for the month of August. The facility performs a tremendous and vital service finding cures and answers to genetic challenges. It is an interesting and wonderful time when the majority of the community support events like this.
The particular artists who were at the Harp in Sydney were wonderful. I have included a recording by a great man called Ray Toms. A gentleman, who is talented in video production and editing. He used a 6 camera shoot to capture all the action of the concert I was at also. In the clip I have included from Ray's You Tube upload, is from famed Australian musician Ian Moss. If you look closely enough you can even see me in a few shots-big deal I know! I am at the front of the stage taking the stills. It is a great clip from a great musician, I loved watching Ian "unplugged" as it were. His energy and presence made the concert very powerful. His commitment and passion with which he struck those strings was nothing short of terrific. It was a concert I shall not forget in a hurry. I will include some stills here again also that I took of Ian. Some of these pictures were emailed to Ian who responded very warmly expressing how much he liked my images. That is nice when people like and appreciate what you do. I love what I do.
Some car shots
An early night last night! The first in quite a few days. I think my body had become unaccustomed to sleep and woke up way too early. I will endeavour to restore the balance in missed hours slept, sometime over Easter. I wanted to show a picture of a Lamborghini Gallardo I took in Sydney last week. I like the vehicle because it is rare, but I don't really think they are made for people of my height. It is a nice car. Very catching in yellow! I thought I would also add a couple of shots of other cars I pictured. All the other ones are owned by a dear friend. These are just some of the many car shots I have taken over the years.
Where did the weekend go? It's Monday already!
What a pace I have been running at over the last few days. I say this not to say hey look at me, but because over the past few days and at least until this Friday, the pace has shown little sign of letting up. It is partly due to my own determination and commitment to do what I do, and partly due to circumstances that people want to have things happen before Easter. I had the Wedding Saturday, which I got home from at midnight. I then left home at 6:30am Sunday to go to Rockdale near Sydney airport, then went back to the hire car place near home to return the Audi A6 I had hired, for the wedding the day before. I mourned the return of my new 4 wheeled friend and wished that it could linger a little longer! Then I went to church. After that I went back home to change, then off to Harvey Norman at Auburn to help sell for their HUGE camera SALE, as I was representing a major camera company. After that I then went home to change, then went out to a conference which I was at for some hours and then returned home and retired at 11pm. Whew! The danger of course is that I often don't get time to relax and smell the roses, but I am consciously seeking to chill when I can. This Easter will be great as I am taking some time off and am going to just relax and do the bare minimum.
As I mentioned previously, on Saturday morning last, I had booked an Audi A6 for me to drive for the wedding I was going to photograph. I just fell in love with the car. It hugged the road and cornering was a dream. The quiet zone created within the cabin was simply wonderful. It took me around 20 mins of looking and touching all of the buttons and dials initially to understand what everything did, but found the car to be quite intuitive. When I was weaving through the meandering roads of the Blue Mountains, west of Sydney, the car performed effortlessly. I am convinced when I put Tina Arena's CD in the glove box compartment concealed CD player, it said "Buy me"! I only had two creature comfort doubts with the car, and that was the height of the arm rest on the drivers door, which was either too low, or uncomfortably too high. Then the angle of the seat. It angles up and cuts into the back of my thighs after staying in the car for a while. I am sure my small issues could be addressed and corrected, were I to buy one, and I am looking! I loved the car. Audi - you certainly get my tick of approval. The Audi pictures above and on the interior I got from their online brochure. As I was at the wedding to photograph the Bride and groom I felt conscious to ensure I didn't stop and take too many pictures of the car though I sure wanted to!
The Wedding was beautiful. I loved the church at Leura and the reception was a quaint little place in Blackheath at the crest of the Blue Mountains. The couple were gracious and generous. I enjoyed being of service to them in a photographic capacity and in helping to create images that will live with their family for generations to come. I may have picked up another job or two from it as well which makes all the effort worth it.
A dear friend of mine, Colin Fragar (pictured above), was fulfilling an assignment to speak at church yesterday. Colin is young man who is just dynamic, he has co-written a book and is one of the most gracious and humble people I have ever known. He is around 26, single, very successful in business and makes you feel that for the few moments he spends with you, he is totally absorbed in you, or whomever he is speaking with. There is little talk of what HE does and is doing. He is an engaging person and its hard not to wonder where this man will go and what he can and will accomplish. I am grateful to know him. He is about to put all of his business and personal endeavours on hold as he goes and serves two years as a missionary for the church. In his address he made reference to a famous U.S Basketball coach John Wooden, who had led his team to 10 victories over as many years. He was asked by a reporter "What is the key to your success" to which John replied simply by saying, "We try to be brilliant at the basics". Colin's motive, I believe, for mentioning that, was to create a deeper pondering for all of us and serve as a call for us to become brilliant at the basic tenets of our faith and at being the best we can be generally. The thoughts that flowed to me as I pondered that statement and how it might apply to my own life were many, Thanks Colin. I just clicked on to John Wooden's website and find it very inspiring and commend a search.
http://www.coachjohnwooden.com/
I am so grateful for the friends I have and for the opportunities that come to me. It occurred to me last night at the conference, that inspiration and thoughts and choices are all around us. We have the internet, friends, work, social events, economic situations, stresses and so many other things that constantly clamor for our attention. Why is it that we choose to do what we do with the many distractions? I believe that for the most part we do the very best we can with the best of information we have at the time. I always try in the large number of elements that compete for my attention, to express my gratitude. I always try to stop at given moments of most days and take a mental snapshot of where I am, and how can I truly get the best out of myself and out of the day. I also ask myself questions at those moments, like "Am I on the path to the place I wish to be?" I am imbued with many imperfections, but I daily strive to find the best of what's within and move forward, exercising a little more faith in myself and in my dreams. I like the quote from John Wooden below;
Success is peace of mind which is a
direct result of self-satisfaction in
knowing you made the effort to do
the best of which you are capable
and on that note I leave today's post, and just express my gratitude to all of you who visit here. Many whom I do not know personally and some I do. To all of you I simply say, Thank you. It is a humbling thing for me to see and find that things I think about and say here find a small degree of resonance with many of you. It still amazes me, this internet stuff. I marvel that there are people all over the world who read what I say. One of my brothers and another of my friends said the blog is almost addictive! I am honoured. God bless you all.
Songs of Love and Loss
I am ever so grateful for so many elements that happen in life without my input or influence. I am speaking specifically about the young man who was "looking suspicious" in Eastwood (a Sydney suburb) the other day and as police approached the man he drew a gun which was fully loaded, fired back at police and was himself wounded. It has surfaced that he may have even shot himself.
It appears from evidence found that he allegedly planned to start shooting at shoppers in the mall, a place I have frequented many times. Influenced by recent campus shootings in the US. I don't claim to know or even remotely understand why people decide that because they are unhappy with their own situation, that by killing, injuring or harming another will make things alright. Yes, I understand that Misery does love company and appreciate that on a small scale, but I am aghast at anybody, irrespective of race, colour, creed or influence to seek the life or lives of others to make sense of their own lot in life. My heart is saddened. I am grateful for the police who were astute enough after buying their lunch to question why that person stood out from the crowd.
Safety, security and the elements of life I so take for granted on a daily basis are fragile at best. I pray with gratitude, that the persons plan was thwarted.
I have immersed myself in the latest album of Tina Arena, an Italian/ Australian singer who lives in France! I have been a fan of her music for a long time, and I have just enjoyed the soft, reflective song choice and style of her musical interpretation. Her voice seems to have matured into a vocal purity that strikes a chord within me. She even sings a couple of Burt Bacharach's songs. Good Choice Tina!
I particularly love her version of The Windmills of your mind. Originally recorded for a movie that was remade with Pierce Brosnan, and originally starred the coolest guy in the world at the time one Steve Mcqueen. The film was called the Thomas Crown Affair. I have quoted the lyrics on my blog a couple of times, but I love the inference and suggestion of the song. I think Tina nailed it. She is a talent and a wonderful artist. I have photographed her before and found her to be a lovely person. Her songs have helped me through these last few days. I certainly don't want to give the impression that I have been having a hard time, I just have felt a little flat, and yes tired from the pace I have been setting, but a little flat at the thinking that is laced with so much heartache, remorse and even violence. The days when we could negotiate and reason one with another seem to be fading. Below is another song which expresses my feeling at present.
Last night at the Bridge
This is a picture collage I created a few minutes ago from shots of Kevin Borich that I took last night at the Bridge Hotel in Sydney's Rozelle. It is a small intimate venue with walls that could fill a few volumes of stories that have occurred here. I arrived there at 8pm and got home at 2 am this morning!!! I started going there thinking that I wouldn't stay long, but once I get in the vibe, I love what I do and am always wanting to maximise my opportunities while I have them. It was quite rewarding from a fulfillment side to have some Australian music industry legends recognise who I was, and even remembered my name! and then said your pictures were really outstanding. That is very nice.
The concert last night didn't have many patrons, but it was done at short notice to raise funds for people who have suffered from addiction. The bands, the venue....and even the photographer, gave of their facilities and time for free to contribute to the cause. Playing at the venue was Ganggajang, Dragon, Kevin Borich, and The fabulous Brewster Brothers. I am including a song from the Brewster Brothers from You Tube. These Brothers themselves were the creators of the Angels. A well known Australian band of the 80's.
I took the picture above, and it is about to be printed up and used for the concert posters. I started talking to a few die hard fans of the Brewsters and what a great bunch of people they are. It is interesting to find kindred spirits on the journey. It was a good night. Tonight is a little more subdued, as I have a wedding tomorrow. Another opportunity to work on my craft. I love it. Much more to write, and more pictures to show soon. I promise.
Then and Now
Last night I was able to go and visit with my Sister-in-law Mem, visiting for a few days from New Zealand. It was good to see her. We took her around the city at night and were able to share her company for almost 4 hours. It's good to visit with the whanau (Family in Maori). Denzel was very co-operative and of course was so because he was looking for a burger, chips and ice cream as a reward.
I have a busy day today and another late night. I am off to photograph a few great Australian bands tonight including one band called Gangajang who created one very big Australian hit called the Sounds of then. Which most Australian's who know the song, rarely if ever know the name of it. It has an interesting tune and words that most Australians know, but the title is in the first couple of lines of the song. A great song.
I have included a You Tube clip here together with the band Dragon's biggest hit! April, Sun in Cuba. The song still sounds the same and is still good. The band has had a line up change since this recording. Marc. the lead singer is no longer with us and the only original left is Todd who in this clip has an afro with big glasses and is now no longer wearing glasses and whose hair is all grey (said with admiration not sarcasm). But in 1977 that was cool right! I photographed their last album cover and promo shots and found them to be a great bunch of guys - who still produce music that gets the crowd to their feet. I thought I would include the clip to give those who are overseas a sense of what they were like and still are like in a large measure, not withstanding the band changes. The sound is still good!. Lots more pictures going to be posted soon on some cars I have photographed recently and also on some other interesting things I have been doing.
Gangajang - The Sounds of Then - This is Australia
Dragon - April Sun in Cuba
and this little gem that I found whilst looking on You Tube. It is an Australian television commercial for Decore Hair Shampoo and was put to the music of a famous song, and was arguably the biggest and most successful commercial in this country in some 20 years or more. It is good fun. I found when I was looking for The Sounds of Then which Coca Cola used as a commercial some years ago also.
A big day today and tonight. Hope yours is too.
A project complete
I thought I would share this picture of a family I have known for many years and finished an hour ago. I thought I would share with you how I did it. I photographed them all individually and added them in. The small baby in white on the right hand side was born recently and added in. The mother was still pregnant when the picture was taken, and over the period of time it took to get the elements "right" this is what I have done. The picture in the background I shot on a recent visit to regional NSW, and the other elements seemed to fit. I have certainly become comfortable doing large scale portraits. It is a big job but very rewarding to me.
I thought I would show another couple I have done similar. I have done many more but these two are favourites. The first one was for a christmas card some years ago on the back. It was done in a limited edition run, and the next one has a few celebrities in it who get together and create music for research into genetic abnormalities. It is a great casue and one I enjoyed doing. I shot and designed all the images and graphic art you see here.
"Live the Right way and the Dreams will come to YOU!
I saw this lecture given by Dr. Randy Pausch from a show on Oprah. It takes 10 minutes, but contains the elements for life, for success and for happiness. What a wonderfully inspirational few moments I encourage you to take. It is interesting isn't it. If today or tomorrow was your last day, would you make today better? Would you continue to hold grudges? Would you love more unconditionally, Would you mope and whine? What would you do?
Guess what, Today could be that day. Live more fully.
Brooks & Dunn Down Under in Sydney
The journey home from work yesterday was rather serendipitous. At the last minute, not that I am in anyway complaining mind you, I was invited to go, see and experience the Country music juggernaut that is Brooks & Dunn.
Brooks & Dunn are an American country music duo, consisting of singer-songwriters Kix Brooks and Ronnie Dunn.
The pair made their debut in 1991 with four singles all reaching the top of the U.S. Billboard country music charts. Brooks & Dunn have had more than 40 singles on the country music charts, of which 20 have reached number one in the US. They have recorded ten studio albums, two greatest-hits compilations, and a Christmas album. So they are BIG, at least by any current measure we might apply to the mainstream music industry generally. They have won a number of awards in the US, where they call home, and are lauded by a HUGE following world wide. Australia didn't disappoint either, there were thousands of fans who sang along, cheered and stomped their way unashamedly through the songs. I really enjoyed watching those around me enjoying themselves. I felt a little out of place there though. Even if I was in my boots and belt complete with big buckle. I simply didn't know many of their songs at all. Shame on me! The concert was great. It was a big show. It occurs to me also, that paying the big bucks for shows these days, people want desperately to be entertained. For that short 2-3 hours they can forget their troubles and be immersed in some great music. Judging from all the people I saw around me, no-one was disappointed.
Dare I admit this? I am not a big country music fan. Well, not yet anyway! I am happy to admit that the genre is growing on me. I have fallen in love with the McClymonts, the Dixie Chicks and LeAnn Rimes. I like Keith Urban, Adam Brand, Adam Harvey, Lee Kernaghan, Casey Chambers and a few others. My big sister Olive is a big country music fan and I thought of her tonight. I think she would have loved the concert. Country Music to an outsider like me seems to be growing here in Australia. Tamworth in mid northern NSW certainly has the biggest country music festival in the country and it attracts legions of dedicated fans each year in January. 
As you can imagine, the belt buckles were out, the western shirts, the jeans and boots were all on display here in this unabashed display of country music fervor. Ladies dressed well and looked a might perty in their finery! I must note that though the crowd was boisterous, it was extremely well natured and everyone who was there, was so because they wanted to have fun, and that they did.
I am grateful for the opportunity to go and even more grateful to have a very dear friend who thought of me for the invite. It is sincerely appreciated.
If life's richness is experiential, then I am l striving to live it through as many experiences as I can. Tim Rice and Elton John wrote it eloquently for the Lion King which I have quoted from before on my blog.
From the Day we arrive on the planet
and blinking step into the Sun
There's more to see than can ever be seen,
more to do than can ever be done...
....and yet I try my hardest to see and do as much as I can fit into my life. I am conscious also of not going too far too fast. I recognise the importance of stopping to smell the roses and enjoy the journey on occasion. I try to appreciate the simplicity and joys that unfold to those who wish to recognise and feel them. Friday night is a case in point. I was out running some errands in Castle Hill and came home late to a massive downpour of rain. I drove into my driveway and got out of my car and walked onto the grass, took my shoes off and stood in the rain and with arms outstretched, closed my eyes and felt the drops on my face and then allowed the rain to permeate my clothes through to the skin. It was wonderful. I accept there were people who passed by me and were staring and thinking I had lost the plot, and was crazy. Some who read here you may feel the same, but I love to feel life, and I often do that in the most simple of ways.
I think of myself as a free spirited story teller, only my stories are largely told through the lens. Now if only I could find more people willing to let me have even more stories to tell.........
In the loop
Have a look at these American advertisements. It is interesting how something quite innocent can be viewed by another sometimes isn't it!
kinda makes me try not to jump to conclusions so easily. I live and Learn.
I have been going through all of the North Coast pictures and the adventures of that leg of my journey a week ago will be posted very soon!!!
Mum is doing well. The drain has been taken out and her radiation treatment will start in a couple of weeks. I think it starts when I fly to New Zealand for a wedding and family (whanau - Maori for family{pronounced Far-know}) catch up.
Lots happening around at the moment and I am loving it!
Have a great day everyone.
Sydney on the Harbour
Yesterday I had the opportunity to go out on Sydney Harbour with my family and many others as guests of the Variety Club organization who provided a day for parents and carers of children with disabilities. I have been on Sydney harbour many, many times and yet the tour we had today was the absolute best I have been on. It took in every corner of the harbour and there were many opportunities for a snap happy guy like me. There was someone who died in the harbour an hour or more before we arrived and there were police everywhere. As you will see, they were in the air, on the ground and in the sea on boats and Sea Doo’s as well. 
That sad note aside and judging by the amount of pleasure craft on the harbour, everyone was having a great time. The weather here was a lovely 28 degrees Celsius and the sky was a beautiful blue, the sun was out and so was everyone who lived near here. 
It was hard to wipe the smile off my face as I looked around the harbour and photographed the different things I saw. I thought of how many people who would love to be here. I have many friends in the US and Europe who would love to be here in Sydney. I thought of photographers Ruby and Melissa from the US who would certainly like to drink in the life and beauty through the lens that Sydney offers. I am proud to live here. It is a great country and an even better city. It so happened that we positioned ourselves at the back of the Ferry boat which looks like the ferry you see below.
It just happened that it appeared to be the Arabic section of the boat as there were dozens of people who were seated there when we arrived. Not long after the ferry left the women were doing their vocal shrills with their tongues which is great. I can’t do it! They were singing and chanting to some music that they created by singing and tapping on the side of the ferry. It sounded Lebanese, as I have photographed a wedding or three that was Lebanese and it sounded similar. It was fun to watch them enjoying themselves, and it was easy to tap along with the beat they were creating and throughout the 75 minute ride around the harbour some of the teens yelled out to me saying “Hey Mr. take my picture!” I of course obliged. They never asked me how to get a copy of it, so I post them here. Apart from the can of drink they threw in the harbour that saddened me, they were great kids.
I got a picture of my first bird that was flying – that was sharp and clear in focus! I was so envious of Ruby’s bird photographs on a recent blog post a while ago, and whilst I have heaps of shots of birds I couldn’t get what she did. She did real good. I have achieved something close to that today though. 
It may be interesting to note to people who read here that the two main areas of photography I have yet to have any significant success in, is lightning photography and pictures of the big full yellow moon that happens occasionally. I have even stood on someone’s flat roof at the height of a rain and thunderstorm with lightning flashing in the heavens around me, but because it was so cloudy when the lightning flashes came it lit up the whole sky, preventing me from getting an actual strike. On the few other occasions when I have seen the best lightning strikes, I have either been in a terrible geographic vantage to utilise any image or never had my camera when I was well positioned. It is a small bugbear of mine. The other one with taking shots of the big yellow moon is the same, never been in the right place at the right time. It is one of those things that I already know I will capture in a coming day and it will win awards. I guess it is like the fisherman who knows that he is going to come face to face with his scaled nemesis and win. That is how it will be for me.
In my quest to realise my hopes and dreams, a fellow traveller on life’s path told me recently that the universe could give me whatever I have the courage to ask for. I was told further that once I asked, the second part of “HOW” that would happen would be beyond my control and hence out of my hands. The third aspect to this amazing and interesting revelation is, that I would need to display my commitment to my request by living into that reality, by FEELING it as something that has already happened, and by basking in the feeling of that accomplishment. I figure I would experiment upon those words and see if they hold any kernels of truth for me. So, here goes. I want a Sydney Harbour home!!!!....and I believe!
A Window from within Part 2
This follow up post has arisen out of a number of questions that came from the other post A Window from Within - part 1 you can find in the older posts, it was posted online on the 15th February this year, 2008.
Firstly, the comment has been made in praise about my adopted Mother Grace. She IS an amazing woman. I never at any time felt from her that I wasn’t the very person she wanted as her son. She made me feel special and the fact that she was courageous to tell me from a young age that I was adopted suggests to me now, that she was very aware of my natural curiosity and inquisitiveness, that would have ferreted out such information sooner or later. I am glad that I knew at an early age. If I had have discovered it later in life, I think it would really have affected me more adversely than what it did. I have a friend who is adopted who has always wondered why? They don’t know who their parents are and it is a topic that is rarely raised but lies in a very close place just below the topic of most conversations. It is hard for them and for anyone who hasn’t had their questions answered to their satisfaction.
My older Brother John who was adopted also appears to have “battled” with the adoption over his life with much more difficulty than I seem to have had. He has lived in and around the family in New Zealand for more years than I have as well. He became aware of his adoption many years ago and has related some of his experiences privately. One of my other brothers Richard said, that when he was a big rig truck driver in the South Island of New Zealand, on a number of occasions the plant operators would say to him after a drop off at the depot, “I just said goodbye to you, What are you doing back here again?” After a number of times hearing this, it frustrated Richard to the point when he was in a position one day to actually meet John and realised there was much more of a connection than a mistaken comment by the foreman. Apparently they looked very much alike. My observation is again, the fact that because Mother Vera never said much to people about how the family should relate to the others who were adopted or to those who remained, there arose a great deal of undue angst that could have all been averted. But Vera, like all of us endeavour to do, did the best she knew how.
John seems to be OK with the adoption, but I sense within John there is still a yearning. When I last saw him he was talking to me about adoption generally and came out with a line that said; “I guess it’s hard for you to understand how I feel” and before he could continue I just stared at him and he laughed, put his arm around me and said “yep you do understand you bugger!” As much as I might try however, though I walked on the roads to understanding and peace myself, no matter how well intentioned and how desirous I am to take their anguish away, I cannot. I am here to help them if thy wish, but they can only come to that place themselves.
Kayleena is in a similar place. She knows her birth Mother Shona, and is at peace with that…I think. Though the other questions she has are often viewed from the person she is now, and not within the scope of the time or the influences that existed for Shona’s decision to adopt in the first place. Kayleena and I have shared some good times and discussions of late, and I am so very proud of her. She is a fighter and a survivor just like her birth Mother, whom I respect greatly and admire. Both Shona and Mum Grace have walked on roads I can scarcely understand and I love them both dearly, they have a strength that is inspiring.
My brother Lewis has been involved in adoptions professionally as an adoption officer for a number of years and he asked me after reading part 1, what I thought about the fact that in his experience he observes that the same questions adopted people have or may ask, also sometimes exist in a biologically same, nuclear family. He asked me what makes it different with people who are adopted?
A tough question I submit. I have little experience with this, yet from the couple of people I do know who fit the category and who have asked questions about why they fit into a nuclear family, when they do seem the odd ones out. I say odd, in a respectful and kind way. I expect that from my observation at least, the people who ask similar questions in a nuclear family are not anguished by the thoughts of WHO they are, in relation to their parentage or as to their lineage or heritage. That part is understood. The anguish they feel arises from why they think and feel so differently and independently from their siblings and parents. They still ask questions about who they are, and how they fit in, and they are equally as important. But they are diffused somewhat by knowing they have a place to belong. Even if they don’t feel they do belong. I hope my thoughts are clear to understand.
I even know of a situation where a family exists where there are three sons born to the same set of parents, or so it is thought, yet one son looks so completely different in features, in physique and in mannerisms to the other two. I have had a couple of discussions with an aunty of the boys who has said they have doubts about the parentage of the “odd” son out. I asked; “so how does that make you feel” They answered simply, “it saddens me, BUT”, (emphatically said) “now that son is a part of my life I cannot and will not ever accept that the child is not part of us”. A lovely sentiment. That child will always have a place they can call home. Though I suspect one day questions will be asked by the child and answers will be sought and demanded.
I don’t know if I answer my Brother Lewis’ question at all in a satisfactory manner, but I have answered it the only way I can from the limited experience I have in this area.
After a tangent style path of miscommunication and poor understanding, my mum Grace was aware that in part 1, I mentioned about her daughter Annette. Mum was a bit perturbed that I mentioned it for the “world” to see. She thought I had been a little harsh than I had actually been. She thought I had said the words my Mother had an illegitimate child on line, and whilst I did, I did not use those words. A moot point I accept. But Mum did not read it fully, and like Annette, had formed conclusions about what I said, and what I meant without actually reading it fully.
I spoke with Mum about the post and after a period of time she was at peace with what I wrote. I doubt she will read it again, but I accept and understand that. I only wanted to let her know that I wrote that out of a commentary and that it is a matter of our family historical record, warts and all, but it was loaded with respect and admiration for her. A point she seemed to accept. My Mum is heavily involved in church and has a position of responsibility that assists a number of women in the largest, yet little known, women’s organization in the world, called the Relief Society. I was concerned whether she was worried what other people think or about whether she was embarrassed, she said she didn’t mind at all what I had said. She was only concerned as to whether it had been said harshly or without the deference such a topic deserves. After my reassurances she did say that she marvelled that I had such a forum to express my thoughts and feelings in and said it with a big smile. I wasn’t totally sure the smile was complimentary at the time, I think she added she was proud. I hope so. I love her.
It is interesting to me as both the writer on this blog and an observer, how many people “think” they know what I am talking about, or “think” they know what I am feeling without investing the energy to actually read the posts in their entirety.
Skimming never satisfies.
It only creates a misunderstanding. I have a work colleague that within a couple of sentences of an explanation from me says "yeah I know what you mean, or I know what you want to say". On a recent occasion I stopped and said to him, "gee that is great, now explain it back to me because I am confused" he started to mutter something that was totally opposed to what I was actually saying or thinking and then came the home run when I said, "Do you realise NOW what I am saying", to which he said "OH, OK I thought you meant"....and then went on to justify his position or stance. I respect that, but am sad that sometimes things go on so long, and umbrage is taken over things that are so often avoidable if we, and I include myself in this, only listen. Not just with our ears, but also with our hearts.
Another brother of mine Bruce said to me recently, “Craig, I don’t read your blog all the time, I only do so when you invite me to, and the reader cannot be left in any doubt about how you feel about the topics you write about.” I said “is that bad?” He answered “No, not at all”. I know that the topics I write about are not always pleasing to the reader, I know from experience there are some who object to me and my point of view, and that is healthy, and I welcome that, if their objections are said with respect.
It has been noted to me on several occasions, that apart from my big lips, there are few features that I have that indicate I am Polynesian, let alone Maori. I accept my skin is whiter than I would like. I always wanted to be brown – all the girls I grew up with liked the brown skinned Maori boys and I was left right out of that game on more occasions than I could count. Notwithstanding that though, we have Maori blood in our veins together with Anglo saxon blood as my birth Father Maurice was from an anglo background that came from Ireland and England a couple of generations ago as I understand it. I have only pieced this information together from sister Maree and some others, so if my recollections on Maurices geneology are flawed I apologise. I am not offended by that observation, I am proud of the mixed heritage and the richness that provides me. I do not know exactly how much Maori I have in me, but suffice it to say that whatever percentage, it is there. As I understand it also, there are no more full blooded Maori’s left alive. I am always curious that some people I know claim they are 90% Maori, and others try to give me how close to full blood they are, but in the end, it is a rich heritage. I do not subscribe to the I am more than you, I am from Maori royalty, or I come from a long line of great warriors, all of which may be true. It is that the people who earn my respect and honour are mostly those who don't make a big deal out of what they have or who they are.
For those who have persevered through this long post I want you to be aware that I am actually reading and responding to questions that are posed to me that opened the original post in part 1 in the first place, and am creating this part 2 with the follow up questions, which I have invited to be asked. I am trying to make the answers flow, even to those who cannot see the questions I am being asked. I hope it flows.
In light of my adoption and now having Denzel, the little man, I was asked how it has shaped my own ways of parenting. Well, I love Denzel with my whole soul. I never ever thought I could love someone as much as I love him. When he hugs me it encapsulates every good thing in the world, I am proud to be his Dad. Like the creator of Stax records said about colour with the artists who came to record at his studio, I do not see a disability. I see a young boy who knows what he wants and feels loved enough to feel confident to express himself. Denzel's timing on a number of things isn’t always pleasing or appropriate, but then he is MY son!!! I love the simplicity and honesty that Denzel has. Like when we were waiting to go into a wiggles show he says “Dad, I fart!” and as I have just been reminded, he will even add in the "Oh NO!" after it. I have to laugh. He is honest. He may not always be able to express himself clearly, but he has no guile which is in itself a rare and precious jewel.
As for parenting, lets face it I cannot claim any credit for that. I certainly help, but his Mother deserves all the kudos. We occasionally clash over particular ways of doing things and whilst there are times that I do not always agree with how she does what she does, I rarely disagree with the why she does that. Marcelina has Denzel’s long term growth and growing independence very much at the forefront of her mind. That said, being the parent of a special needs child requires extra special needs from the parents and carers. I must admit I don’t always have the patience she does with the little man, but the patience is shown. It is