One would think that a piece of music called "A Pastoral Symphony" by an English composer called Ralph Vaughan Williams, would be all about the English countryside and take you to the Cotswolds or some such place. But that's not the case. It comes in fact from his experience of the First World War in France, where he served with the Medical Corps having enlisted at the age of 41. The trumpet solo was tremendous, the best part of the evening for me. Incredibly moving. His inspiration for this part came from hearing a French bugler practising his calls, when he was out on the ambulances.
It was the first piece played by Scottish Sinfonia when I went to hear them in Edinburgh recently. I don't often listen to classical music at home, but the live experience I really enjoy. Even though I mostly don't have much knowledge of it, I find it very uplifting, and inspirational, even if at times my concentration does begin to drift and I find myself in another world.
My pal George plays the cello in the orchestra so it's really through him that I find myself at Scottish Sinfonia concerts. He's a fine cellist to boot. Thanks George, long may you bow that cello. Does one bow a cello?
The second piece for the evening was Elgar's Violin Concerto, which I enjoyed but found more difficult. Still the challenge was worth it. I think Elgar liked a bit of excitement in his love life and said about this work : Aqui esta encerra el almade..... (herein is enshrined the soul of .....) and admiited that the five dots stood for a woman's name, not his wife either. She was called Alice as was his wife, funnily enough.
Anyway a fine evening was had. ps the violin soloist was Daniel Bell, excellent he was too.
Monday, February 20, 2012
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Shame and Carnage and a Bit of Full Frontal
Must be time for me to write something on here. I see that quite a few readers are checking my blog most days so I guess I should give you all some reading material.
Here in Scotland the days are getting longer and brighter. This used to be my mother's favourite time of year and now it's mine too. The whole world seems so full of possibilities, it's good to be alive.
For those of you reading this in Peru or anywhere near the equator the idea of the days getting longer may not be an easy concept to understand. But trust me that's the way it is. As I look out my window in Edinburgh the sun is still working away and I can see a thin pale sliver of a moon hanging over The Pentland Hills, saying goodbye to the sun as it decides it's had enough for the day and sinks into the western sky.
Best film I've seen this past fortnight was "Carnage". It's witty, funny and entertaining. The dialogue just sparkles along at a pace. Cristoph Waltz is just perfect. He has a way of looking with that cynical sneer of his which I just love, the film is worth seeing just for him alone. Jodie Foster is excellent despite what may have been said in various smart arse newspaper reviews. I will see it again on DVD.
"Shame" was thoroughly entertaining too but very different. Not many laughs. If you like your actors starkers then you are in for a treat, as Michael Fassbender gives us some full frontal nudity to keep us going for a while. With a name like that it's only to be expected I suppose. He acts pretty good too. There's a tremendous version of "New York New York" sung by Carey Mulligan as the Fassbender character looks on, in tears, which luckily I was able to hold back this time. There's a clip on YouTube should anyone wish to hear her. Great film and definitely worth seeing.
Here in Scotland the days are getting longer and brighter. This used to be my mother's favourite time of year and now it's mine too. The whole world seems so full of possibilities, it's good to be alive.
For those of you reading this in Peru or anywhere near the equator the idea of the days getting longer may not be an easy concept to understand. But trust me that's the way it is. As I look out my window in Edinburgh the sun is still working away and I can see a thin pale sliver of a moon hanging over The Pentland Hills, saying goodbye to the sun as it decides it's had enough for the day and sinks into the western sky.
Best film I've seen this past fortnight was "Carnage". It's witty, funny and entertaining. The dialogue just sparkles along at a pace. Cristoph Waltz is just perfect. He has a way of looking with that cynical sneer of his which I just love, the film is worth seeing just for him alone. Jodie Foster is excellent despite what may have been said in various smart arse newspaper reviews. I will see it again on DVD.
"Shame" was thoroughly entertaining too but very different. Not many laughs. If you like your actors starkers then you are in for a treat, as Michael Fassbender gives us some full frontal nudity to keep us going for a while. With a name like that it's only to be expected I suppose. He acts pretty good too. There's a tremendous version of "New York New York" sung by Carey Mulligan as the Fassbender character looks on, in tears, which luckily I was able to hold back this time. There's a clip on YouTube should anyone wish to hear her. Great film and definitely worth seeing.
Saturday, February 04, 2012
War Horse with Lewis
Went to see the Spielberg movie War Horse with Lewis last Saturday. I guess it was inevitable that it would all end in tears. He knows how to manipulate the emotions does old Mr Spielberg.
Actually the tears began well before the end, in fact a few minutes into the movie I could feel things welling up and soon enough the tissues had to come out. I wish I could cope a bit better with this kind of manipulation, but I'm afraid that's the way it is so just have to get on with it.
In fact the experience is quite cathartic if not even enjoyable. I remember being reduced to a sobbing wreck by Toy Story 3, which I saw in Lima, though not too many people noticed, maybe because they were busy hiding their own tears. Hard to believe that a bunch of toys having a hard time could leave one so emotionally exhausted, but quite frankly it was a great movie and fully deserving of tears, of joy as well as loss.
Lewis seemed to enjoy the movie too and he also had a tear or two to hide. It reminded me of going to see ET with Iain and Anna way back in the early 80s. Both of them and their uncle Don were slightly overcome and Anna had to be comforted, quickly followed by Iain who had been putting a brave face on things by hiding under the seat. I think that was the day that Anna began to chant "Maggie Maggie Maggie Out Out Out" as she thought the cinema queue was the start of another anti Tory demo. If you are reading this in Peru you maybe wont get the reference to Maggie. Let me know if you want to know more about her and will maybe post something to explain.
For those of you who have not had the good fortune to have met Lewis he is my nephew Keith's son. I feel very privileged to be able to spend a little time with him. Thanks Keith. Lewis is brilliant company and keeps me entertained with his stories. I picked him up in Irvine last Friday and we drove to his grandparent's house, a journey of about one hour twenty minutes. He spoke non stop all the way there. I just had to make the occasional interjection and he just kept on talking. He even noticed himself that he had rather a lot to say, but he just kept on going. Amazing. He wanders from subject to subject as the mood takes him, one minute football, then school, then family stuff, then films, games, whatever takes his fancy. I just love him to bits.
He is doing a project for his school about the Second World War, so the movie maybe gave him an idea or two for that. I gave him some stuff I had from my father's world war 2 "archive", including one of his medals, to show in his project. Apparently Keith had always wanted one of these medals when he was a wee boy himself, though I've no recollection of this. But I guess K would agree it's going to good use now. Lewis has promised to look after the medal and pass it on to his son some time in the future.
I have no idea how this posting got here from War Horse. If you are looking for a good movie to see I can recommend it... tears are optional of course.
Actually the tears began well before the end, in fact a few minutes into the movie I could feel things welling up and soon enough the tissues had to come out. I wish I could cope a bit better with this kind of manipulation, but I'm afraid that's the way it is so just have to get on with it.
In fact the experience is quite cathartic if not even enjoyable. I remember being reduced to a sobbing wreck by Toy Story 3, which I saw in Lima, though not too many people noticed, maybe because they were busy hiding their own tears. Hard to believe that a bunch of toys having a hard time could leave one so emotionally exhausted, but quite frankly it was a great movie and fully deserving of tears, of joy as well as loss.
Lewis seemed to enjoy the movie too and he also had a tear or two to hide. It reminded me of going to see ET with Iain and Anna way back in the early 80s. Both of them and their uncle Don were slightly overcome and Anna had to be comforted, quickly followed by Iain who had been putting a brave face on things by hiding under the seat. I think that was the day that Anna began to chant "Maggie Maggie Maggie Out Out Out" as she thought the cinema queue was the start of another anti Tory demo. If you are reading this in Peru you maybe wont get the reference to Maggie. Let me know if you want to know more about her and will maybe post something to explain.
For those of you who have not had the good fortune to have met Lewis he is my nephew Keith's son. I feel very privileged to be able to spend a little time with him. Thanks Keith. Lewis is brilliant company and keeps me entertained with his stories. I picked him up in Irvine last Friday and we drove to his grandparent's house, a journey of about one hour twenty minutes. He spoke non stop all the way there. I just had to make the occasional interjection and he just kept on talking. He even noticed himself that he had rather a lot to say, but he just kept on going. Amazing. He wanders from subject to subject as the mood takes him, one minute football, then school, then family stuff, then films, games, whatever takes his fancy. I just love him to bits.
He is doing a project for his school about the Second World War, so the movie maybe gave him an idea or two for that. I gave him some stuff I had from my father's world war 2 "archive", including one of his medals, to show in his project. Apparently Keith had always wanted one of these medals when he was a wee boy himself, though I've no recollection of this. But I guess K would agree it's going to good use now. Lewis has promised to look after the medal and pass it on to his son some time in the future.
I have no idea how this posting got here from War Horse. If you are looking for a good movie to see I can recommend it... tears are optional of course.
Friday, January 27, 2012
Christopher Columbus
I don't suppose anyone wants to read about my shopping, or housework or ironing so I won't mention them. Though I should say that I find ironing most relaxing especially with some good radio to listen to and here in the UK we are blessed with good old Radio 4. Although if I'm feeling particularly virtuous I listen to one of my Spanish Cd's, thereby improving my mind, keeping fit with the iron and getting nicely pressed shirts into the bargain.
For as long as I can remember I've had books in my life. I just can't imagine life without books. When I was a boy there were always books in our house, though not necessarily ones that I would be reading nowadays. There was a cupboard to the right of the old fireplace, with it's peat fire burning away, which was full of my father's books. There was a pile of old bibles in Gaelic and English, though mostly Gaelic, and the rest theological works of one kind or another. He used to read all these heavy theological works, by reformed theologians, whose names now escape me, other than one called John Owen, who was particularly keen on "justification by faith". He used to get all these books from some book club he belonged to. I should remember the name but I'm afraid it's gone. He must have had more books than many ministers had.
There was also a ten volume encyclopedia, with beautiful red covers which I remember him buying from some salesman who came round the doors. I still remember reading it and being enthralled by the stories and pictures from all over the world. I especially remember a photo of the Taj Mahal impressing me enormously and thinking that one day I would see it for real. I still have that dream. I don't remember any pictures or stories from Peru or South America, but I guess there must have been some
One time I'd been reading about Christopher Columbus and his trip to "discover" America and the next day old Fury, our headmaster, and a whole other story, but you can guess from his name what kind of fellow he was, asked if anyone knew the name of Columbus' ship. How he thought that anyone from that bunch of scholars should know it is beyond me, but you can imagine his surprise when I was able to tell him. In case you're interested it was called the Santa Maria.
There was also some lighter reading such as accounts of the escapades of various Presbyterian missionaries as they sought to convert the world, and especially Africa and India, to their very own version of Christianity. And of course we had "The Pilgrim's Progress" by John Bunyan, bits of which I still remember. Such was our Sunday reading material. Though as the years passed we diversified a bit by going to bed early on the Sabbath and reading illicit material such as Biggles Flies West, or some such.
I started writing this thinking about my reading habits, but ended up somewhere else, so will have to come back to my love of reading at another time.
For as long as I can remember I've had books in my life. I just can't imagine life without books. When I was a boy there were always books in our house, though not necessarily ones that I would be reading nowadays. There was a cupboard to the right of the old fireplace, with it's peat fire burning away, which was full of my father's books. There was a pile of old bibles in Gaelic and English, though mostly Gaelic, and the rest theological works of one kind or another. He used to read all these heavy theological works, by reformed theologians, whose names now escape me, other than one called John Owen, who was particularly keen on "justification by faith". He used to get all these books from some book club he belonged to. I should remember the name but I'm afraid it's gone. He must have had more books than many ministers had.
There was also a ten volume encyclopedia, with beautiful red covers which I remember him buying from some salesman who came round the doors. I still remember reading it and being enthralled by the stories and pictures from all over the world. I especially remember a photo of the Taj Mahal impressing me enormously and thinking that one day I would see it for real. I still have that dream. I don't remember any pictures or stories from Peru or South America, but I guess there must have been some
One time I'd been reading about Christopher Columbus and his trip to "discover" America and the next day old Fury, our headmaster, and a whole other story, but you can guess from his name what kind of fellow he was, asked if anyone knew the name of Columbus' ship. How he thought that anyone from that bunch of scholars should know it is beyond me, but you can imagine his surprise when I was able to tell him. In case you're interested it was called the Santa Maria.
There was also some lighter reading such as accounts of the escapades of various Presbyterian missionaries as they sought to convert the world, and especially Africa and India, to their very own version of Christianity. And of course we had "The Pilgrim's Progress" by John Bunyan, bits of which I still remember. Such was our Sunday reading material. Though as the years passed we diversified a bit by going to bed early on the Sabbath and reading illicit material such as Biggles Flies West, or some such.
I started writing this thinking about my reading habits, but ended up somewhere else, so will have to come back to my love of reading at another time.
Friday, January 13, 2012
"The Artist"
I know I've promised to keep my blog going on my return to UK but somehow not quite getting round to it, or else always finding something else to do which at the time seems important, like cleaning or ironing or just generally time wasting. I must spend hours just dithering and generally messing about. So now that I've started I plan to continue. Though what I'm going to write about I have no idea. Life in Edinburgh is not quite the same as life in Peru, interesting to me but maybe not to anyone else.
Last night I went to see "The Artist", which I reckon is a minor masterpiece. I went along thinking this could be a real test of endurance but left absolutely enchanted. It's a love story, a romance and a comedy set in the 20s as the talkies are taking over the world. It's the story of George Valentin, a successful movie star who falls in love with a film extra who goes on to be a hugely successful star in the talkies. He refuses to have anything to do with what he sees as a passing fad, and the film is the story of his slow but inevitable fall to the bottom.
It's a sexy movie with no sex. Just a few kisses. The moment they meet on set at the beginning and fall in love is beautifully done, and you know it's going to be a great night of cinema.
By the end, I was in tears, but tears of joy and happiness. It's a truly uplifting experience. If you are a dog lover this film has one of the best doggie performances you will ever see. He is called Uggie, a very suitable name for him too. He is a brave, funny wee dog, who deserves the doggie Oscar if there is such a thing, and if not one should be introduced just for him.
I've never heard of the lead actor, guy called Jean Dujardin, but he has a touch of Rudolph Valentino and Gene Kelly about him and a touch of genius. The lead actress is South American, Berenice Bejo, and she is simply beautiful, and a fine actress to boot.
Go see this movie and if the ending doesn't leave you moved (maybe even to tears like me) I will give you a refund.
The night before I went to see the Sherlock Holmes movie with Robert Downey Jnr playing old Sherlock, though not so old of course. It's all fights and explosions and nothing like the Sherlock I remember from my youth. It's good to see Robert though looking in fine fettle and not at all like a jailbird. There is a very disturbing scene where Stephen Fry appears stark naked, with his great big fat belly hanging down... just not good Stephen. Next time I see you on IQ I will have to try not to think about it.
It's not a patch on the BBC version with Benedict Cumberbatch which is one of the best things on tele right now and definitely worth watching.
Last night I went to see "The Artist", which I reckon is a minor masterpiece. I went along thinking this could be a real test of endurance but left absolutely enchanted. It's a love story, a romance and a comedy set in the 20s as the talkies are taking over the world. It's the story of George Valentin, a successful movie star who falls in love with a film extra who goes on to be a hugely successful star in the talkies. He refuses to have anything to do with what he sees as a passing fad, and the film is the story of his slow but inevitable fall to the bottom.
It's a sexy movie with no sex. Just a few kisses. The moment they meet on set at the beginning and fall in love is beautifully done, and you know it's going to be a great night of cinema.
By the end, I was in tears, but tears of joy and happiness. It's a truly uplifting experience. If you are a dog lover this film has one of the best doggie performances you will ever see. He is called Uggie, a very suitable name for him too. He is a brave, funny wee dog, who deserves the doggie Oscar if there is such a thing, and if not one should be introduced just for him.
I've never heard of the lead actor, guy called Jean Dujardin, but he has a touch of Rudolph Valentino and Gene Kelly about him and a touch of genius. The lead actress is South American, Berenice Bejo, and she is simply beautiful, and a fine actress to boot.
Go see this movie and if the ending doesn't leave you moved (maybe even to tears like me) I will give you a refund.
The night before I went to see the Sherlock Holmes movie with Robert Downey Jnr playing old Sherlock, though not so old of course. It's all fights and explosions and nothing like the Sherlock I remember from my youth. It's good to see Robert though looking in fine fettle and not at all like a jailbird. There is a very disturbing scene where Stephen Fry appears stark naked, with his great big fat belly hanging down... just not good Stephen. Next time I see you on IQ I will have to try not to think about it.
It's not a patch on the BBC version with Benedict Cumberbatch which is one of the best things on tele right now and definitely worth watching.
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Hogmanay 2012
So that was 2011. This will be my last post for this year (obviously).
Thank you to all my readers for keeping up.
My blog has been viewed 1,134 times since I went to Peru in October.
Much to my astonishment I have readers from 14 countries. UK, USA, Peru, Russia, Bolivia, India, Philippines, Taiwan, South Korea, Netherlands, Germany, UAE, Sweden and Lativia.
I can guess who is reading me in most countries but some are a mystery. Which is good I guess. But would love to know who everyone is who is taking the trouble to read my ramblings. It's a shame so few of you like to comment on my blog.
Well nevermind, mustn't complain.
2011 has been an eventful year all round. 2012 will be my last full year of working for DWP, which for me is quite incredible, but there you are. Time flies. I plan to retire in March 2013. Unless the UK economy totally collapses of course and I have no money to pay for my travels.
I don't know what I'm going to blog about till I next go away. Any suggestions? I suppose something will come up, though whether or of any interest is another matter entirely.
For those of you who don't know, Hogmanay is what we call the last day of the year, here in Scotland. I'm sure the web will explain why, if anyone wants to know. And it's now 10 pm on Hogmanay in Edinburgh and I'm sitting here writing this guff. Changed days indeed. If its not raining I shall go out and watch the fireworks at 12 pm and then maybe call in for a celebratory noggin before bed. Such excitement........
Thank you to all my readers for keeping up.
My blog has been viewed 1,134 times since I went to Peru in October.
Much to my astonishment I have readers from 14 countries. UK, USA, Peru, Russia, Bolivia, India, Philippines, Taiwan, South Korea, Netherlands, Germany, UAE, Sweden and Lativia.
I can guess who is reading me in most countries but some are a mystery. Which is good I guess. But would love to know who everyone is who is taking the trouble to read my ramblings. It's a shame so few of you like to comment on my blog.
Well nevermind, mustn't complain.
2011 has been an eventful year all round. 2012 will be my last full year of working for DWP, which for me is quite incredible, but there you are. Time flies. I plan to retire in March 2013. Unless the UK economy totally collapses of course and I have no money to pay for my travels.
I don't know what I'm going to blog about till I next go away. Any suggestions? I suppose something will come up, though whether or of any interest is another matter entirely.
For those of you who don't know, Hogmanay is what we call the last day of the year, here in Scotland. I'm sure the web will explain why, if anyone wants to know. And it's now 10 pm on Hogmanay in Edinburgh and I'm sitting here writing this guff. Changed days indeed. If its not raining I shall go out and watch the fireworks at 12 pm and then maybe call in for a celebratory noggin before bed. Such excitement........
Sunday, December 25, 2011
MERRY XMAS
Merry Xmas to all my faithful readers.I'm now back in Edinburgh and all is well. Takes me a few days to get used to being home again. I miss all my friends and new family in Peru. I'm thinking of you all.
I don't usually keep this blog going when I'm in Edinburgh but I might now continue. Depends if enough of you read it.
I hope you all have a good day today wherever you are. I'm heading of out to be fed up in Wormit. I think it might be a houseful up there. It's near Dundee for those of you not familiar with Scotland. Dundee is Scotland's third city. It has a famous bridge, or did have until it fell down. There's a poem about it.
Must go now..... am late.... getting the Peruvian habit....
I don't usually keep this blog going when I'm in Edinburgh but I might now continue. Depends if enough of you read it.
I hope you all have a good day today wherever you are. I'm heading of out to be fed up in Wormit. I think it might be a houseful up there. It's near Dundee for those of you not familiar with Scotland. Dundee is Scotland's third city. It has a famous bridge, or did have until it fell down. There's a poem about it.
Must go now..... am late.... getting the Peruvian habit....
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Bye bye Villa Maria
I trust you've all read my report on the party last night and enjoyed the photos I've posted.
This is my last night in Lima, at least for now. I hope to be back, unless of course the UK economy crumbles completely and I have to work for ever and a day. Lets hope not for all our sakes.
I shall miss all the kids of Villa Maria, and those at La Policia, though they are a bit different as I don't usually get to spend so long with them.
One of the boys in Villa Maria told me that Peru was my second home, and thats the way it feels at times. It's difficult leaving them all behind but I can't take them with me, so I've had to promise to come back some time soon. Jhon says he's going to miss me lot, and I'm going to miss him too, as I will all the kids. He's the boy in the photo with me and the nice young lady. He comes along with his brother Jairo and his sister, whose name has slipped my memory.
There are three other kids from same family who come along only occasionally. Cesar is the youngest of the three. I discovered that they are a family of eight and neither parent works, so there's no money coming into the house, which is why they don't come along, as it costs 15 soles a month to pay for their lunch at INABIF. This charge is new, in past year, but is a tiny amount. So to cut a long story short I decided to make a little donation to pay for them for the next three months, and Flor has agreed that if I pay for two of them the other goes free.
Last night was a very memorable night, will stay with me forever. I've rarely if ever felt so loved by so many at one time. It's a rare feeling. All these kisses and hugs. Which I guess is why a return trip is called for. What's the point in growing old in Morningside when I can get younger here in Villa Maria.
My knees are better now. Fortunately. So off to bed for some beauty sleep before my flightback tomorrow.
This is my last night in Lima, at least for now. I hope to be back, unless of course the UK economy crumbles completely and I have to work for ever and a day. Lets hope not for all our sakes.
I shall miss all the kids of Villa Maria, and those at La Policia, though they are a bit different as I don't usually get to spend so long with them.
One of the boys in Villa Maria told me that Peru was my second home, and thats the way it feels at times. It's difficult leaving them all behind but I can't take them with me, so I've had to promise to come back some time soon. Jhon says he's going to miss me lot, and I'm going to miss him too, as I will all the kids. He's the boy in the photo with me and the nice young lady. He comes along with his brother Jairo and his sister, whose name has slipped my memory.
There are three other kids from same family who come along only occasionally. Cesar is the youngest of the three. I discovered that they are a family of eight and neither parent works, so there's no money coming into the house, which is why they don't come along, as it costs 15 soles a month to pay for their lunch at INABIF. This charge is new, in past year, but is a tiny amount. So to cut a long story short I decided to make a little donation to pay for them for the next three months, and Flor has agreed that if I pay for two of them the other goes free.
Last night was a very memorable night, will stay with me forever. I've rarely if ever felt so loved by so many at one time. It's a rare feeling. All these kisses and hugs. Which I guess is why a return trip is called for. What's the point in growing old in Morningside when I can get younger here in Villa Maria.
My knees are better now. Fortunately. So off to bed for some beauty sleep before my flightback tomorrow.
Party Time in Villa Maria
The party with the kids of Villa Maria was one of the great parties of the century and one of the most memorable I've been to in many a year.
We had about thirty kids there, maybe more, I didn't count them, though Flor did keep a register of all who showed up. She counted them in and counted them out, so to speak. It was supposed to start at 5 pm but as is fairly typical here in Peru we didn't get under way until 6 pm. The kids seem to have followed the example of the adults and don't worry about showing up on time. This can be frustrating but you just get used to it, but never so used to it that you also turn up an hour late. But that's the way it is here.
The clowns were not so much clowns as childrens' entertainers. There were three of them all dressed up and they put on a great show for the kids, all of whom got involved in the fun. There was also a DJ who played us some great music. I've not danced so much since I don't know when. I was knackered and the knees were not much better. There was no place to hide though, so it just had to be done. I was dragged to my feet whether I liked it or not, by these girls. Such nice girls too. Muy divertido. My knees are suffering today though. Must get back to the gym in Edinburgh so that I'll be in good condition for next year's party!
All the kids were given a hamper of food and goodies at the end. Some guy, I guess from INABIF came along to present them. Another volunteer who was here until a few weeks ago, donated the money to pay for the hampers, which was a very good idea. They all got a panetonne in their hamper, which is very popular in these parts especially at Xmas time. Flor did a pile of work to organise it all and I'm so pleased to have done my little bit too. And of course Flor had to go and make a speech thanking me, made me feel like some kind of visiting dignatary and like all good dignataries I had to reply. My little speech went ok, and I feel real pleased with myself, but it's not easy, and of course i had no time to prepare, or failed to find the time to be more accurate. Still well done me. And thanks to to Marian for your contribution. I'm sorry but I forgot to mention you in my little turn.
I'm off out for dinner now, for my last feed in Lima, this time round....
We had about thirty kids there, maybe more, I didn't count them, though Flor did keep a register of all who showed up. She counted them in and counted them out, so to speak. It was supposed to start at 5 pm but as is fairly typical here in Peru we didn't get under way until 6 pm. The kids seem to have followed the example of the adults and don't worry about showing up on time. This can be frustrating but you just get used to it, but never so used to it that you also turn up an hour late. But that's the way it is here.
The clowns were not so much clowns as childrens' entertainers. There were three of them all dressed up and they put on a great show for the kids, all of whom got involved in the fun. There was also a DJ who played us some great music. I've not danced so much since I don't know when. I was knackered and the knees were not much better. There was no place to hide though, so it just had to be done. I was dragged to my feet whether I liked it or not, by these girls. Such nice girls too. Muy divertido. My knees are suffering today though. Must get back to the gym in Edinburgh so that I'll be in good condition for next year's party!
All the kids were given a hamper of food and goodies at the end. Some guy, I guess from INABIF came along to present them. Another volunteer who was here until a few weeks ago, donated the money to pay for the hampers, which was a very good idea. They all got a panetonne in their hamper, which is very popular in these parts especially at Xmas time. Flor did a pile of work to organise it all and I'm so pleased to have done my little bit too. And of course Flor had to go and make a speech thanking me, made me feel like some kind of visiting dignatary and like all good dignataries I had to reply. My little speech went ok, and I feel real pleased with myself, but it's not easy, and of course i had no time to prepare, or failed to find the time to be more accurate. Still well done me. And thanks to to Marian for your contribution. I'm sorry but I forgot to mention you in my little turn.
I'm off out for dinner now, for my last feed in Lima, this time round....
Bus to Villa Maria
The bus journey from Miraflores to Villa Maria takes about forty five minutes and is always an adventure in itself. Yesterday the driver is going flat out as usual, then braking hard at every stop. Absolutely no consideration for passengers, old or young, blind or disabled. It's all the same to him, there being no women drivers, at least none that I've noticed.
Meantime fat guy sitting across from me is sound asleep, with his fat tummy sticking out of his red shirt and his head rolling about onb his fulsome chest. Manboobs I think they are called nowadays. He wakes with a start when the bus does a vicious swerve and comes to a very sudden halt. Then he gets off. The woman in front is banging her head against the window as she is also sleeping. In fact half the bus seems to be asleep, including the woman beside me.
We have constant entertainment on board. A couple of kids come on, brother and sister I think. He plays some kind of home made instrument and sings, meanwhile she dances in the aisle and sings along with him. How she doesn't end up flying through the window is a mystery, she has great balance and control, and is about nine years old, and is a beautiful wee girl. After they finish the performance she goes round the bus selling sweets (caramelos I think she calls them) from a large bag which suddenly appears in her hand. A few passengers appreciate her performance enough to buy some sweets. Such enterprise has to be applauded. They are probably earning the family dinner.
There are always people jumping on board to sell something, ice cream, drinks, glue, anything really that can be carried on board, Some of them make a long speech explaining how poor they are and how the money will be used, and praying to God at same time. It's great entertainment.
And there is alwys a soundtrack blaring out. Yesterday we had Freddy Mercury and the rest of the boys from Queen, doing the old Fandango song, followed by Dire Straits getting their kicks for free and then guess who, yes it's Robbie singing about his angel... incredible... though it's not always music from home, they do play Peruvian chart stuff too, like Shakira and that mad woman from USA, whose name I forget but might be Britney.
And the driver belts along as if we are all in a hurry to get there. There's a big picture of Christ hanging up behind him, looking down and watching over us. So we feel very safe. The bus is hot and the traffic is dense. I know Villa Maria is close as the smell of the fish market (pesquero) fills the bus. Thats my stop, my ticket is to el pesquero, and it costs just 1 sol 50 centimos. We are driving along Av los Heroes, but I'm not sure who the heroes are. Maybe from wars with Chile in century before last. Should ask someone.
The journey is never without excitement. Nothing like it back home. You would be thrown off.
Meantime fat guy sitting across from me is sound asleep, with his fat tummy sticking out of his red shirt and his head rolling about onb his fulsome chest. Manboobs I think they are called nowadays. He wakes with a start when the bus does a vicious swerve and comes to a very sudden halt. Then he gets off. The woman in front is banging her head against the window as she is also sleeping. In fact half the bus seems to be asleep, including the woman beside me.
We have constant entertainment on board. A couple of kids come on, brother and sister I think. He plays some kind of home made instrument and sings, meanwhile she dances in the aisle and sings along with him. How she doesn't end up flying through the window is a mystery, she has great balance and control, and is about nine years old, and is a beautiful wee girl. After they finish the performance she goes round the bus selling sweets (caramelos I think she calls them) from a large bag which suddenly appears in her hand. A few passengers appreciate her performance enough to buy some sweets. Such enterprise has to be applauded. They are probably earning the family dinner.
There are always people jumping on board to sell something, ice cream, drinks, glue, anything really that can be carried on board, Some of them make a long speech explaining how poor they are and how the money will be used, and praying to God at same time. It's great entertainment.
And there is alwys a soundtrack blaring out. Yesterday we had Freddy Mercury and the rest of the boys from Queen, doing the old Fandango song, followed by Dire Straits getting their kicks for free and then guess who, yes it's Robbie singing about his angel... incredible... though it's not always music from home, they do play Peruvian chart stuff too, like Shakira and that mad woman from USA, whose name I forget but might be Britney.
And the driver belts along as if we are all in a hurry to get there. There's a big picture of Christ hanging up behind him, looking down and watching over us. So we feel very safe. The bus is hot and the traffic is dense. I know Villa Maria is close as the smell of the fish market (pesquero) fills the bus. Thats my stop, my ticket is to el pesquero, and it costs just 1 sol 50 centimos. We are driving along Av los Heroes, but I'm not sure who the heroes are. Maybe from wars with Chile in century before last. Should ask someone.
The journey is never without excitement. Nothing like it back home. You would be thrown off.
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Julio
That penultimate post obviously has a spelling mistake. Not deliberate either. His second name is Julio and not Julia, he's obviously not a girl. Sorry Eberth!!!
We bought a book for him too for his Xmas. I'm trying to encourage him to read a little bit, Not easy to choose a book for him though, but after some consideration and discussion we decided on Paulo Coelho's little book "El Alquimista". Managed to find a hardback copy with some nice prints. So lets hope he gets down to reading it.
I'm tired and need to go to bed now, early start tomorrow for La Fiesta en Villa Maria. I'm so excited. Lets hope the clown is up to expectations. Lets hope Flor found one.
We bought a book for him too for his Xmas. I'm trying to encourage him to read a little bit, Not easy to choose a book for him though, but after some consideration and discussion we decided on Paulo Coelho's little book "El Alquimista". Managed to find a hardback copy with some nice prints. So lets hope he gets down to reading it.
I'm tired and need to go to bed now, early start tomorrow for La Fiesta en Villa Maria. I'm so excited. Lets hope the clown is up to expectations. Lets hope Flor found one.
Trotsky comes to Villa Maria
Today is Sunday and I spent it with Heber, hence the photos. He changed tops half way through the day as we bought him this top, amongst lots of other stuff for his Xmas. He doesn't expect to be getting any other presents, though I feel sure he must be getting something from his aunts. No sign of mum or gran getting in touch. They will all get together for a turkey dinner in the house of one of his aunt's. He is in process of moving, as one aunt leaves for Iquitos in January.
He does like to pose just a little. He likes to post my fotos on his Facebook, for some reason. Though I think I can guess why.
He now has his DNI, of which he decided to give me a copy. Hence the name change, as it is different from what he thought it was. Which I guess says a lot about his life so far. Anyway his real name is Eberth Julio Vega Huamán. I'm not sure which he wants to use, his real name or one he has used up to now, though he has used more than one in the past. I'm going to use his proper name from now on, and he has no objection.
Tomorrow I'm going to the Xmas party for the INABIF kids in Villa Maria, so I'm looking forward to that a lot. I think I'm expected to make a speech, in Spanish obviously, God help them all. Will have to attempt to prepare something later on tonight, but I suspect I won't get round to it. Oh well, nothing changes. Maybe I'll tell them about Trotsky or something equally inspirational......
He does like to pose just a little. He likes to post my fotos on his Facebook, for some reason. Though I think I can guess why.
He now has his DNI, of which he decided to give me a copy. Hence the name change, as it is different from what he thought it was. Which I guess says a lot about his life so far. Anyway his real name is Eberth Julio Vega Huamán. I'm not sure which he wants to use, his real name or one he has used up to now, though he has used more than one in the past. I'm going to use his proper name from now on, and he has no objection.
Tomorrow I'm going to the Xmas party for the INABIF kids in Villa Maria, so I'm looking forward to that a lot. I think I'm expected to make a speech, in Spanish obviously, God help them all. Will have to attempt to prepare something later on tonight, but I suspect I won't get round to it. Oh well, nothing changes. Maybe I'll tell them about Trotsky or something equally inspirational......
Saturday, December 17, 2011
Planes, and taxis and presidents
I don't think I've ever been on a plane out of Cusco which left on time. So yesterday we departed one hour late, after a somewhat chaotic wait in a queue in the airport. One guy managed to lose the plot altogether, and was ejected from the queue, but he may have been pissed and in the wrong place. This time round it was a local causing the fracas, unlike last time when our US cousins were responsible. Still Cusco airport is a lovely wee airport and well worth the hassle.
I was sitting beside a loving couople, she snoring and he sipping on a couple of large whuskies. one at a time of course. Johnny Walker Red Label is very popular in these parts. I think the last time I had a Johnny Walker was in Byres Road in Glasgow, some many years ago, amd probably with one of my many readers. I seem to recall a few wee nips being consumed in those distant times. Ahhh memories indeed. Anyway she stopped snoring when I spilt my drink over her new dress. No I didn't really, just joking.
The wait is always worth while because of the view of the Andes and the adrenalin rush a we fly right into the mountains, hoping that the pilot is not drunk or dosing on the job, and remembers where he is. It's a truly beautiful sight and always inspiring. I have a couple of videos of the flight into Cusco, which I will eventually put on YouTube, if and when I get round to it.
Then very quickly the plane is flying out over The Pacific to begin it's descent into Lima Airport, always a pleasure to see the old Pacific, if only for the relief of having made it out of the Andes safely. I feel like an old hand now flying into Lima airport. It hardly seems like being in a foreign country at all. I mustn't get over confident though, must keep on ones toes.
Francisco was waiting for me at the airport as always in his battered old van, which he describes as an airport taxi. He's a nice old guy, maybe a year or two older than me. His driving has become increasinly erratic over the years. Like all "good" drivers he blames the others. Today he started a shouting match with another particularly bad driver, and I though dear me here we go, a wee fight. Fortunately the other guy did a right turn and we were free. Francisco apologised for his shouting, and I told him it was fine by me. We arrived safely in Miraflores without any further dramas.
He seems to have modified his views about President Humala, who has just completed his first six months in office. Last time he was pretty down on him, but now he seems to think that he's not doing too badly and is willing to give him a chance. Humala has problems mostly caused by those around him, including his vice president who is caught uo in some corruption scandal. So what's new? He also has an "assessor" who used to work for Lula in Brazil, when he was President. I don't think this goes down to well with the right wing press. But it's hard to follow quite what is happening, but I think so far so good, with reservations.
Lima is hot. It's Saturday so I think I'll put on my blue suede shoes and head off out, not forgetting my sun block. More later maybe......
I was sitting beside a loving couople, she snoring and he sipping on a couple of large whuskies. one at a time of course. Johnny Walker Red Label is very popular in these parts. I think the last time I had a Johnny Walker was in Byres Road in Glasgow, some many years ago, amd probably with one of my many readers. I seem to recall a few wee nips being consumed in those distant times. Ahhh memories indeed. Anyway she stopped snoring when I spilt my drink over her new dress. No I didn't really, just joking.
The wait is always worth while because of the view of the Andes and the adrenalin rush a we fly right into the mountains, hoping that the pilot is not drunk or dosing on the job, and remembers where he is. It's a truly beautiful sight and always inspiring. I have a couple of videos of the flight into Cusco, which I will eventually put on YouTube, if and when I get round to it.
Then very quickly the plane is flying out over The Pacific to begin it's descent into Lima Airport, always a pleasure to see the old Pacific, if only for the relief of having made it out of the Andes safely. I feel like an old hand now flying into Lima airport. It hardly seems like being in a foreign country at all. I mustn't get over confident though, must keep on ones toes.
Francisco was waiting for me at the airport as always in his battered old van, which he describes as an airport taxi. He's a nice old guy, maybe a year or two older than me. His driving has become increasinly erratic over the years. Like all "good" drivers he blames the others. Today he started a shouting match with another particularly bad driver, and I though dear me here we go, a wee fight. Fortunately the other guy did a right turn and we were free. Francisco apologised for his shouting, and I told him it was fine by me. We arrived safely in Miraflores without any further dramas.
He seems to have modified his views about President Humala, who has just completed his first six months in office. Last time he was pretty down on him, but now he seems to think that he's not doing too badly and is willing to give him a chance. Humala has problems mostly caused by those around him, including his vice president who is caught uo in some corruption scandal. So what's new? He also has an "assessor" who used to work for Lula in Brazil, when he was President. I don't think this goes down to well with the right wing press. But it's hard to follow quite what is happening, but I think so far so good, with reservations.
Lima is hot. It's Saturday so I think I'll put on my blue suede shoes and head off out, not forgetting my sun block. More later maybe......
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Last post from Cusco
Its Thursday morning here in Cusco and it's my last day. I've not been to work this morning so hope all my boys are doing ok. I will miss the lot of them. It's not easy sometimes listening to their sad stories and I often wish I could do more to help them. I will as usual remember them all and think about them and their future lives. The lucky ones will find a good orphanage to settle down in and maybe their lives will be totally transformed. One can but hope.
I'm sitting in Maximo Nivel as I write this and wondering if I'm going to be able to come back here. I sure hope so but will have to wait and see what transpires over the next year or so. Maybe Peru will be a better place to live in than Europe, if the economy there goes down the pan, never to come back up again, if its not already done so.
The statue of Túpac Amuru (see my foto) is in The Plaza de Armas, and is new since I was last here. The fountain was always there but he wasn't. Or at least not as far as I can recall, though memory does play funny tricks on one as one gets older, not that I'm old of course.
Túpac was the last leader of the Incas and lead the last battle against the Spaniards. The Incas lost of course and Túpac was beheaded in the same place as his statue now stands. Or nearby. His last words are said to have been " Mother Earth witness how my enemies shed my blood." The Spaniards had of course tried to convert him before killing him. He obviously resisted their invitation.
I'm off for my final feed at Granja Heidi, so see you all in Lima, where I'm heading tomorrow.
I'm sitting in Maximo Nivel as I write this and wondering if I'm going to be able to come back here. I sure hope so but will have to wait and see what transpires over the next year or so. Maybe Peru will be a better place to live in than Europe, if the economy there goes down the pan, never to come back up again, if its not already done so.
The statue of Túpac Amuru (see my foto) is in The Plaza de Armas, and is new since I was last here. The fountain was always there but he wasn't. Or at least not as far as I can recall, though memory does play funny tricks on one as one gets older, not that I'm old of course.
Túpac was the last leader of the Incas and lead the last battle against the Spaniards. The Incas lost of course and Túpac was beheaded in the same place as his statue now stands. Or nearby. His last words are said to have been " Mother Earth witness how my enemies shed my blood." The Spaniards had of course tried to convert him before killing him. He obviously resisted their invitation.
I'm off for my final feed at Granja Heidi, so see you all in Lima, where I'm heading tomorrow.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Higg's Boson
Tomorrow will be my last day in Cusco. I feel I've only just arrived. Do these guys searching for the Higg's Boson thingee know how to slow down time, now that they've managed to go faster than the speed of light? I'm no physicist but maybe if there's one reading this, and I know of at least one, then you could let me know?
Ken, the owner of Maximo paid a surprise visit to La Policia de La Familia today, which was nice. He has lots of plans to try to improve things there for the future. He hopes to send more volunteers, maybe two in the mornings and two in the afternoon. He's also going to spend some money improving the place, e.g. new mattresses, painting, new chairs etc
Don't know if I mentioned about Pedro the boy aged seventeen who was lifted on Saturday for being drunk. He smashed the one and only wash hand basin to bits whilst drunk and has no recollection. He was told that he could not leave until his father paid and replaced the basin. Well you can imagine his delight when Ken told him that he would replace it and arrange for one of his workers to come in to do it.
I'm so pleased that something is being done for the kids there, and even more so that Maximo are doing it. So well done Ken.
Must go now, will try to post once more tomorrow before I leave here.ps why is it called a boson?
Ken, the owner of Maximo paid a surprise visit to La Policia de La Familia today, which was nice. He has lots of plans to try to improve things there for the future. He hopes to send more volunteers, maybe two in the mornings and two in the afternoon. He's also going to spend some money improving the place, e.g. new mattresses, painting, new chairs etc
Don't know if I mentioned about Pedro the boy aged seventeen who was lifted on Saturday for being drunk. He smashed the one and only wash hand basin to bits whilst drunk and has no recollection. He was told that he could not leave until his father paid and replaced the basin. Well you can imagine his delight when Ken told him that he would replace it and arrange for one of his workers to come in to do it.
I'm so pleased that something is being done for the kids there, and even more so that Maximo are doing it. So well done Ken.
Must go now, will try to post once more tomorrow before I leave here.ps why is it called a boson?
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