Ho! Ho! Ho! It will be December tomorrow!
I still haven't managed to sort out all of my Christmas presents or cards yet so I am behind schedule but as long as I can get everything done by the ends of the first week in Dec I will consider it a job well done...
I had a lovely day yesterday at The Holy Redeemer Christmas Fayre in Hollington! Another of the annual Christmas Fayre's I try at go to each year, the parishioners of The Holy Redeemer make a good effort and the Church hall is always stuffed full of bargains, Christmas gifts, cakes, jewelry and toiletries and bric-a-brac. They have a Father Christmas in attendance for the little ones in his grotto and usually have a LARGE 'win a bottle' Tombola at the rear of the hall.
Now, I have a personal problem with Tombola's! Why? Well, it seems to be generally accepted that it is o.k. not to put all of the winning numbers in at the beginning but to 'feed a few in' throughout the event in order to ensure that all of the top prizes are not won too soon. It amazes me that society seems to think that such a practice is fine! Not only is it unfair on those who pay their money in good faith in the hope of winning whatever it is that has taken their fancy, it is morally wrong and quite likely fraud in the eyes of the law.
I found out about this practice first hand some years ago. I went to a similar event and saw a large bottle of whisky I wanted for a present for someone. As it was late in the day as far as the event was concerned I decided to keep on buying tickets until I won it. There were not that many in the box when I paid my first £1 and so I thought my luck was sure to be in! After spending £15 I had STILL not won the item but the woman behind the stall was beginning to look very uneasy and looked a bit scared. As soon as I gave up and went and sat down I saw, out of the corner of my eye, the woman behind the stall slip a folded piece of paper into the box. Within seconds, another stall holder bought a ticket and then cried out 'Hurrah! as she had won the bottle of Whisky. I think both of them must have felt guilty about it all though as this lady then came over and offered to let me have the bottle if I handed back one of the prizes I had won. I did so and thanked her for her kindness but I think we both knew why she had done so...
I won't reveal here exactly where this incident occurred because I do not want to tarnish anyones reputation for something that since talking to others about my experience have found most people see no harm in. As a non-religious person myself, I often wonder how those who claim to have faith in God can do things like that and not feel bad about it? I don't need to ask the almighty his view on such a thing because I am 100% sure he would agree with me (on this at least!). Isn't the world a strange place?
Anyway, since then I have resisted the temptation to go in for Tombola's with FANTASTIC looking top prizes to be won. I hate the fact that I can't enjoy the thrill of 'taking the chance' but any gambler will tell you that there is little point in betting on a fixed race unless you know who is going to win!
Just to be totally clear on one point I should state here that in no way am I suggesting that The Holy Redeemer Christmas Fair mentioned above was the venue where this bad experience happened to me - it was NOT. Furthermore, I in no way suggest that they have ever undertaken such a practice - I have simply used my attendance at their fair yesterday as a way of bringing up the subject of something I feel strongly about, is wrong and I am repulsed by...
Sunday 30 November 2014
Tuesday 25 November 2014
'Its More Like Winter Now!'
Well, it is definitely getting more like Christmas outside now! The temperature has dropped quite a bit this last week and the wind-chill when it starts to blow goes right into your bones...
Unsurprisingly, I have now developed a cold and an writing this feeling a bit groggy from my bed! Luckily, I don't have a headache just a cold but my eyes are a bit sticky and my eyebrows feel quite sore. That last development is a new one for me!
The GOOD news is that I DID manage to go to my favourite Christmas Fair at St Clement's Church this year. Amazingly, I had not been in the church before so it was a completely new experience other than some of the familiar stall holders. The inside of St Clement's is quite an unusual mixture of the very old with the new and sparkling. There is a lot of new glass and wooden panels about and some new looking staircases behind and above the rows of traditional wooden benches which point to the altar. Normally, I feel a bit awkward inside a church. Being a bit of a gambler and not exactly a stranger to the odd 'sin or three', I feel a bit guilty and imagine a giant face looking down on me, God rubbing his hands together and saying in a slightly sarcastic manner "Ah, Mr.May! We haven't seen you for a while boy!". I'm sure God's not really like that but it shows that I am aware I'm not perfect and recognise that when entering a church. I very much doubt that I am the worst person on earth mind - but I'm a fair way from being the best either. Still, I'd rather feel a bit guilty and care about that than simply not be bothered no matter what I had done...
As usual, I made straight to the £1 a go 'win every time' stall. The organisers always make a real effort to wrap the presents you get in pretty Christmas paper and the contents of each present always work out to be good value for money as well. Inside each parcel you can be sure there will be a nice little gift and over the years I have won everything from a large Teddy Bear to a pair of ladies stockings! Now, If only they could supply me with someone to go in those! HA HA
What was really nice this year as well was the fact that when I introduced myself to the stall holders they all said that they remembered me from the days when the Fair was held at All Saints Church Hall in All Saints St. I had been sadly missed the last few years they said and told me that they'd wondered whether I had not realised about the change of venue before. While I am pretty distinctive wearing my Cowboy Hats It was still nice to know that the fun we had shared in the past had endeared me to them enough for them to remember me and be pleased to see me back.
I simply LOVE paying my money (usually all in 50p pieces) and then picking my winning raffle tickets from out of the pot or container. The fun of unfolding those tiny bits of paper, calling out the number on it and then searching the table for the relevant parcel is HUGE and really helps make my Christmas right there and then! This time I bought 10 presents when I first arrived and then another 5 after having a good look around at the other stalls. I must make quite a difference to the success of the whole Fair with spending like that and there are very rarely many presents left unsold at the end of the event when I'm about!
While browsing the other stalls I also picked up a cute Father Christmas Salt & Pepper set! I liked the look of it on the box and as it was only £1 decided to buy it as a Christmas decoration. It must have been meant to be that I did this as, when I opened the box at home and took a look at the figures inside, there was actually a 'Grannie Christmas' inside rather than any of the figures shown on the packaging accompanying Santa. I got a bit emotional when I saw that as, having lost my beloved Nan in June this year, it was almost as if her way of letting me know she's looking down on me. I shall give 'Grannie Christmas' pride of place on display indoors this year and think of my Nan every time I look at her...
The inside of St Clement's church is a much better venue to hold the Christmas Fair as well really. While its not as Christmassy in the respect of things like the paper streamers and tinsel that used to adorn All Saints Church Hall it is much bigger and gives all who come to the Fair a better chance to look at everything without tripping over each other. A large toy Train had been set up in front of the rows of pews and that added a childlike element to proceedings which was nice. As ever, for your 50p entry fee ( though the advertising posters outside all stated that 'admission was free', oops!) once you had finished browsing a nice cup of coffee or tea and a mince pie awaited you in the refreshments area. I guess there were about 20 odd stalls in all and pretty much anything and everything was on sale somewhere! I got a few cheap CD's (10p each!) and a charming little golden bear broach for £2 as well as my 15 presents so I did my bit to help the event make money!
To be honest, I would have loved to have spent even more money there but finances are not what they used to be these days and I am having to be a bit more sensible about what I spend (well, most of the time, anyway!). I always have a fair few pounds to spend at this Christmas Fair because I save up for it all year. I save 50p's in a wooden lighthouse all year round as a way of remembering my friend, Simon Patrick Kerr Griffiths (1946-2001) who, sadly, took his own life in November, 2001. Each year on the anniversary of his death I empty the lighthouse and then make a few charitable donations in his honour with whatever is inside. The money I send though usually comes directly from my bank account and so each year I am left with £30-40 of 50p pieces jangling about in my pockets. I try to spend this money on good causes as well if I can and the All Saints Christmas Fair always seems like a worthy place to spend my money and be able to have a lot of fun doing so in the bargain...
If ever you are in Hastings mid to the end of November do make sure to find out about St Clement's Church and its Christmas Fair. Unless you are a 'Bah Humbug' person you are sure to love it and come away full of the spirit of Christmas.
Unsurprisingly, I have now developed a cold and an writing this feeling a bit groggy from my bed! Luckily, I don't have a headache just a cold but my eyes are a bit sticky and my eyebrows feel quite sore. That last development is a new one for me!
The GOOD news is that I DID manage to go to my favourite Christmas Fair at St Clement's Church this year. Amazingly, I had not been in the church before so it was a completely new experience other than some of the familiar stall holders. The inside of St Clement's is quite an unusual mixture of the very old with the new and sparkling. There is a lot of new glass and wooden panels about and some new looking staircases behind and above the rows of traditional wooden benches which point to the altar. Normally, I feel a bit awkward inside a church. Being a bit of a gambler and not exactly a stranger to the odd 'sin or three', I feel a bit guilty and imagine a giant face looking down on me, God rubbing his hands together and saying in a slightly sarcastic manner "Ah, Mr.May! We haven't seen you for a while boy!". I'm sure God's not really like that but it shows that I am aware I'm not perfect and recognise that when entering a church. I very much doubt that I am the worst person on earth mind - but I'm a fair way from being the best either. Still, I'd rather feel a bit guilty and care about that than simply not be bothered no matter what I had done...
What was really nice this year as well was the fact that when I introduced myself to the stall holders they all said that they remembered me from the days when the Fair was held at All Saints Church Hall in All Saints St. I had been sadly missed the last few years they said and told me that they'd wondered whether I had not realised about the change of venue before. While I am pretty distinctive wearing my Cowboy Hats It was still nice to know that the fun we had shared in the past had endeared me to them enough for them to remember me and be pleased to see me back.
I simply LOVE paying my money (usually all in 50p pieces) and then picking my winning raffle tickets from out of the pot or container. The fun of unfolding those tiny bits of paper, calling out the number on it and then searching the table for the relevant parcel is HUGE and really helps make my Christmas right there and then! This time I bought 10 presents when I first arrived and then another 5 after having a good look around at the other stalls. I must make quite a difference to the success of the whole Fair with spending like that and there are very rarely many presents left unsold at the end of the event when I'm about!
The inside of St Clement's church is a much better venue to hold the Christmas Fair as well really. While its not as Christmassy in the respect of things like the paper streamers and tinsel that used to adorn All Saints Church Hall it is much bigger and gives all who come to the Fair a better chance to look at everything without tripping over each other. A large toy Train had been set up in front of the rows of pews and that added a childlike element to proceedings which was nice. As ever, for your 50p entry fee ( though the advertising posters outside all stated that 'admission was free', oops!) once you had finished browsing a nice cup of coffee or tea and a mince pie awaited you in the refreshments area. I guess there were about 20 odd stalls in all and pretty much anything and everything was on sale somewhere! I got a few cheap CD's (10p each!) and a charming little golden bear broach for £2 as well as my 15 presents so I did my bit to help the event make money!
If ever you are in Hastings mid to the end of November do make sure to find out about St Clement's Church and its Christmas Fair. Unless you are a 'Bah Humbug' person you are sure to love it and come away full of the spirit of Christmas.
Friday 21 November 2014
'My Favourite Christmas Fair & Other Things'
Well, I have to say that so far this year my 'Christmas Mojo' is struggling to get out of first gear! I have watched a load of Christmas Movies on Channel 5 and 'blubbed like a baby' at the obvious though touching story lines and have felt the thrill of buying someone a present I hope they will be over the moon with but overall, I''m still not feeling this Christmas...
I did get a kick though out of finding out the other day that it was a man by the name of Robert L MAY who invented 'Rudolph The Red Nose Reindeer'.
That someone with my family name invented a character so interwoven now with the story of Christmas seemed fitting! I am nicknamed 'Mr.Christmas' by my friend (and Producer), Harvey Summers so maybe this is why! Robert was American apparently so I doubt we are actually related but he obviously had a love of Christmas to be able to write the poem featuring Rudolph that he did.
I found the story of Robert & Rudolph here: The Story of Rudolph The Red Nose Reindeer Sadly, in rather an uncharitable and un-Christmassy way, I am not allowed to reprint of re-produce any of their article here for copyright reasons. Don't you just love the irony of that? I mean, how much of an own-goal is not being able to spread the word about a character like Rudolph's invention for the human race? Its typical of the modern world I dislike so much to be honest!
Anyway, my Christmas spirit may well get a boost soon as tomorrow my favourite Christmas Fair of the year is due to take place at St Clements Church in the Old Town of Hastings. It has been a few years now since I was able to attend the event as the last couple of years it has clashed with a writing festival I go to in London each year. This time though I am free and am hoping it will be every bit as memorable and Christmassy as I remember it! They usually have a £1 a go 'present every time' stall and I LOVE supporting that because I get loads of UNOPENED MYSTERY wrapped presents to put under our tree for opening on Christmas Day! Ho, Ho!!
Getting to feel like a kid again is such an important part of Christmas for me and going to Christmas Fairs is all part of the fun. The St Clements Christmas Fair (used to be held at All Saints Church Hall in All Saints Street) is by far the best Fair of the year for me though so I do hope I won't be disappointed tomorrow...
Last years Christmas run up did not quite work out for me in a number of ways as you will know if you read this blog regularly. Thankfully, after the 'Santa at Battle' debacle last year, my camera has been a 'good boy' this year so hopefully this time if I go I will get some proper photos to share with you all here.
Oh well, back to the present hunting!
I did get a kick though out of finding out the other day that it was a man by the name of Robert L MAY who invented 'Rudolph The Red Nose Reindeer'.
I found the story of Robert & Rudolph here: The Story of Rudolph The Red Nose Reindeer Sadly, in rather an uncharitable and un-Christmassy way, I am not allowed to reprint of re-produce any of their article here for copyright reasons. Don't you just love the irony of that? I mean, how much of an own-goal is not being able to spread the word about a character like Rudolph's invention for the human race? Its typical of the modern world I dislike so much to be honest!
Anyway, my Christmas spirit may well get a boost soon as tomorrow my favourite Christmas Fair of the year is due to take place at St Clements Church in the Old Town of Hastings. It has been a few years now since I was able to attend the event as the last couple of years it has clashed with a writing festival I go to in London each year. This time though I am free and am hoping it will be every bit as memorable and Christmassy as I remember it! They usually have a £1 a go 'present every time' stall and I LOVE supporting that because I get loads of UNOPENED MYSTERY wrapped presents to put under our tree for opening on Christmas Day! Ho, Ho!!
Last years Christmas run up did not quite work out for me in a number of ways as you will know if you read this blog regularly. Thankfully, after the 'Santa at Battle' debacle last year, my camera has been a 'good boy' this year so hopefully this time if I go I will get some proper photos to share with you all here.
Oh well, back to the present hunting!
Monday 17 November 2014
'Wilde Winter Songbook' (Again!)
I know its now a year old and I know that I reviewed it here then but Kim Wilde's 'Wilde Winter Songbook' album has proved to be an album with true staying power. As the weeks gradually turn towards Christmas, I am starting to get the urge to listen to plenty of old favourites again but am resisting that urge at the moment preferring instead to continue to explore the more modern - less heard festive delights in my vast record collection.
I have always thought of Kim Wilde as a lovely looking lady and once got into trouble with a girl at my school who wanted my attention by staring lovingly at a picture of Kim while daydreaming in the common room! Aside from her considerable sex appeal though, Kim is also a very good song writer and her talent in this area shines brightly on 'Wilde Winter Songbook'. Not only is the album a successful blend of traditional cover versions and originals it hangs together very well as an album listen and songs like 'Hope' advertise Kim's ability to sing in such a way as to make you believe she means every word. I love that as it makes me feel closer to Kim as a person - even if some may see it as rather 'karaoke'.
'Song For Beryl' meanwhile is a song that almost brings me to tears. Its a song of remembrance and loss and serves as the perfect reminder that not everyone has a family or friends to spend Christmas with... On the happier side of things playful songs like Kim's 'Hey Mister Snowman' bring the joyous, magical side of Christmas to the forefront of your mind. All in all, aside from the opening and closing duets (with Rick Astley and at the end Nick Kershaw) which I find are less successful, 'Wilde Winter Songbook' is a fantastic album and if you decided to pass it over last year you should put it on your shopping list this...
It would be lovely to meet Kim one day. Don't know what the hell I would say to her mind you but I get the feeling the subject of Christmas would be a good place to start a conversation...Oh, and I do consider her song, 'Someday' (from the LP 'Love Moves'), to be a song which would certainly take pride of place on any soundtrack album of my life so that might just get a mention too!
Love ya' Kim xxx
I have always thought of Kim Wilde as a lovely looking lady and once got into trouble with a girl at my school who wanted my attention by staring lovingly at a picture of Kim while daydreaming in the common room! Aside from her considerable sex appeal though, Kim is also a very good song writer and her talent in this area shines brightly on 'Wilde Winter Songbook'. Not only is the album a successful blend of traditional cover versions and originals it hangs together very well as an album listen and songs like 'Hope' advertise Kim's ability to sing in such a way as to make you believe she means every word. I love that as it makes me feel closer to Kim as a person - even if some may see it as rather 'karaoke'.
'Song For Beryl' meanwhile is a song that almost brings me to tears. Its a song of remembrance and loss and serves as the perfect reminder that not everyone has a family or friends to spend Christmas with... On the happier side of things playful songs like Kim's 'Hey Mister Snowman' bring the joyous, magical side of Christmas to the forefront of your mind. All in all, aside from the opening and closing duets (with Rick Astley and at the end Nick Kershaw) which I find are less successful, 'Wilde Winter Songbook' is a fantastic album and if you decided to pass it over last year you should put it on your shopping list this...
It would be lovely to meet Kim one day. Don't know what the hell I would say to her mind you but I get the feeling the subject of Christmas would be a good place to start a conversation...Oh, and I do consider her song, 'Someday' (from the LP 'Love Moves'), to be a song which would certainly take pride of place on any soundtrack album of my life so that might just get a mention too!
Love ya' Kim xxx
Thursday 13 November 2014
'First Christmas Tree!'
I saw my first lit Christmas Tree of 2014 today! Love Christmas as much as I do I thought Noooo! Its way too early! HA HA
I think the speed of modern life and the inability it seems of people today to wait for or look forward to anything has a lot to do with it. Everything today is 'instant', the news flashes at us on the train and from advertising boards everywhere and its only going to get worse the further into the future we go.
I for one actually LIKE the idea of 'videoing' something to watch later and HATE it when everywhere you go its impossible to avoid information on 'latest scores' or news items. Christmas should not be something we 'fast track' it should be something precious that we look forward to and plan for.
On my forthcoming Christmas album there is a track entitled 'Tradition' and its one I'm expecting to get a bit of flack for. It must be the first Christmas song ever to include 'The Last Post' and at almost 10 minutes long is not going to be for everyone. I am proud of it, however, as it has a lot to say about the way I feel Christmas is beginning to die out. Not just in the hearts and minds of people but as an event itself. I know quite a few people who either work on Christmas Day (nurses, care home workers, waitresses etc) or who get only Christmas Day off and are then thrust straight back into the money making process until New Years Eve/Day.
Christmas should be a time to be together. Families need time to gather and spend quality time with each other and that is just not possible when crazy working schedules and awkward hours are all the rage. I feel that ALL staff (with the exception of essential medical/emergency services) should get at least three days PAID holiday for Christmas. Life is over fast enough as it is and there isn't always a tomorrow to be able to 'see you tomorrow' in.
While I am glad to see the Christmas spirit is alive and kicking in at least one home in Hastings I just wish we as a community could learn to celebrate things together and at the same time again...
I think the speed of modern life and the inability it seems of people today to wait for or look forward to anything has a lot to do with it. Everything today is 'instant', the news flashes at us on the train and from advertising boards everywhere and its only going to get worse the further into the future we go.
I for one actually LIKE the idea of 'videoing' something to watch later and HATE it when everywhere you go its impossible to avoid information on 'latest scores' or news items. Christmas should not be something we 'fast track' it should be something precious that we look forward to and plan for.
On my forthcoming Christmas album there is a track entitled 'Tradition' and its one I'm expecting to get a bit of flack for. It must be the first Christmas song ever to include 'The Last Post' and at almost 10 minutes long is not going to be for everyone. I am proud of it, however, as it has a lot to say about the way I feel Christmas is beginning to die out. Not just in the hearts and minds of people but as an event itself. I know quite a few people who either work on Christmas Day (nurses, care home workers, waitresses etc) or who get only Christmas Day off and are then thrust straight back into the money making process until New Years Eve/Day.
Christmas should be a time to be together. Families need time to gather and spend quality time with each other and that is just not possible when crazy working schedules and awkward hours are all the rage. I feel that ALL staff (with the exception of essential medical/emergency services) should get at least three days PAID holiday for Christmas. Life is over fast enough as it is and there isn't always a tomorrow to be able to 'see you tomorrow' in.
While I am glad to see the Christmas spirit is alive and kicking in at least one home in Hastings I just wish we as a community could learn to celebrate things together and at the same time again...
Monday 10 November 2014
'My Christmas Album - But What To Call It?'
if you read this blog regularly you will know that I am a bit of an amateur recording artist. I love being creative in as many forms as possible and have always loved putting words together whether it be for written articles, blogs, letters or as song lyrics.
When I was asked at school what I wanted to be when I got older I said "A Journalist". When my careers advisor virtually laughed in my face and asked if I had any other thoughts I said "Pop Star". As you can well imagine I was not given much encouragement to pursue that line of work either! Adults should listen to kids more, however, as had I been given more help and been encouraged to follow my dreams I reckon I could have had the life I desired. As it is, I have spent most of my life doing what other people thought I aught to be doing and now, late 40's, am 'washed up and out of the race' as far as any meaningful paid work is concerned...
The world does not make it easy for people with 'flair, however, and never has. If you cannot PROVE that you can do something by getting the relevant 'bits of paper that say you can' nobody will give you a chance and that is EXTREMELY frustrating when you feel that you have a natural talent for something and just need help and assistance while doing the job to sharpen the edges of your skill base.
The fact us, pieces of paper can NEVER make a great lyricist nor a great vocalist nor can they make a poor writer into a brilliant Journalist. Natural talent for something cannot be taught or learn't - you either have it or you don't - just take Scott Mills and Judy Murray's 'Strictly' performances, for example. Try as hard as they both might, neither of them have the tools required to do the job and as such are capable only of reaching a 'moderate standard' as dancers.
Anyway, I'm beginning to sound like an arrogant twit so I will stop digging and get back to talking about my new Christmas album...
I am really excited about the album but cannot think of a good title for it? My GENIUS Producer, Harvey Summers (check out his 'Jupiter' album) is currently mixing and mastering it and so my task is to come up with the title, write the sleeve notes and think about photos for the artwork. Harvey knows what a Christmas nutter I am! He has nicknamed me 'Mr.Christmas' because of how I get carried away on the wave of the Crimbo spirit. I LOVE that tag so am wondering whether 'Tony May - Mr. Christmas' would be a good name for the album or not? If any of you have a view on that please let me know!
As far as the artwork is concerned, I would love to have the money to pay a professional photographer to get some great pics of me dressed as 'Santa' in various Christmas related locations for it but that isn't going to happen unless I win the lottery. Since I have not even had a £10 (or £25 as it is now) for well over a year that doesn't sound likely. I have got a selection of festive photos I've taken of me 'over the years' but the quality of them isn't that great. I want to include a 16 page booklet with the CD (if I can afford to get to that stage with the project) and the idea with that is to include some of my festive stories along with the usual track list, notes and thank you's. Its all rather ambitious but I'm determined to do the whole thing properly if I'm going to do it at all.
Christmas, like life, is all about 'hopes and dreams'. When else is there a better time to sit quietly and dream about the things you really want to make happen for yourself and for others? I guess I've shown my true colours there by saying 'myself' in front of 'others' there , haven't I? Still, if you were 49, unmarried, without a job, a place of your own or a girlfriend/boyfriend I think you might also end up a little 'selfishly' wanting something good to happen for yourself, don't you?
Anyway, as long as I can dream I may as well dream for the best outcome rather than the worst. If I never manage to ever get any of my albums properly released at least I will have the satisfaction of knowing that I DID make them and make at least some use of the talent I have been given.
Lots of love to you and yours - good luck with your dreams xxx
P.S) The three videos you see here are of tracks to be featured on my Christmas album. I wrote the last two, 'The Toy Museum' and 'A Snow Story' and the first is my version of the classic David Essex hit 'A Winter's Tale'. I hope you like them.
When I was asked at school what I wanted to be when I got older I said "A Journalist". When my careers advisor virtually laughed in my face and asked if I had any other thoughts I said "Pop Star". As you can well imagine I was not given much encouragement to pursue that line of work either! Adults should listen to kids more, however, as had I been given more help and been encouraged to follow my dreams I reckon I could have had the life I desired. As it is, I have spent most of my life doing what other people thought I aught to be doing and now, late 40's, am 'washed up and out of the race' as far as any meaningful paid work is concerned...
The world does not make it easy for people with 'flair, however, and never has. If you cannot PROVE that you can do something by getting the relevant 'bits of paper that say you can' nobody will give you a chance and that is EXTREMELY frustrating when you feel that you have a natural talent for something and just need help and assistance while doing the job to sharpen the edges of your skill base.
The fact us, pieces of paper can NEVER make a great lyricist nor a great vocalist nor can they make a poor writer into a brilliant Journalist. Natural talent for something cannot be taught or learn't - you either have it or you don't - just take Scott Mills and Judy Murray's 'Strictly' performances, for example. Try as hard as they both might, neither of them have the tools required to do the job and as such are capable only of reaching a 'moderate standard' as dancers.
Anyway, I'm beginning to sound like an arrogant twit so I will stop digging and get back to talking about my new Christmas album...
As far as the artwork is concerned, I would love to have the money to pay a professional photographer to get some great pics of me dressed as 'Santa' in various Christmas related locations for it but that isn't going to happen unless I win the lottery. Since I have not even had a £10 (or £25 as it is now) for well over a year that doesn't sound likely. I have got a selection of festive photos I've taken of me 'over the years' but the quality of them isn't that great. I want to include a 16 page booklet with the CD (if I can afford to get to that stage with the project) and the idea with that is to include some of my festive stories along with the usual track list, notes and thank you's. Its all rather ambitious but I'm determined to do the whole thing properly if I'm going to do it at all.
Anyway, as long as I can dream I may as well dream for the best outcome rather than the worst. If I never manage to ever get any of my albums properly released at least I will have the satisfaction of knowing that I DID make them and make at least some use of the talent I have been given.
P.S) The three videos you see here are of tracks to be featured on my Christmas album. I wrote the last two, 'The Toy Museum' and 'A Snow Story' and the first is my version of the classic David Essex hit 'A Winter's Tale'. I hope you like them.
Saturday 8 November 2014
'Two Dates For Your Diary'
Its at this time of the year that I try to pick out a few AWESOME Christmas related events to tell you about. Enjoying the build up to the big day and being as active in as many fun things in December is what makes the Christmas period such fun after all!
With that in mind, please take note of the following two events. Both come highly recommended and are likely to be attended by me as well!
Dec 5th - The Ostrich Pub - Robertsbridge - 8PM-10PM
Meet of the Tongue
Meet of the Tongue is a contemporary ceilidh. The ceilidh was where everyone would gather in their community, take a turn by offering a poem, tale or music and in this way make the community story. In this tradition, @ Meet of the Tongue there is no clear line between audience and performer. Instead everyone hosts a generous and eclectic space for 'regulars' and invited professional guests to perform spoken word, music or tales... Always varied, sometimes extraordinary and occasionally naughty.
Dec 6th - Hastings Old Town 10AM-5PM
Once Upon an Old Town Christmas
Let's make this the best Christmas yet and what better way to start off the festivities, than by going to the quaint and beautiful Hastings Old Town for a day of activities laid on by the community.
Both of these events should be enormous fun! I have been going to Meet of the Tongue evenings for a few years now and they always turn out to be memorable. With a mixture of traditional storytelling, music, poetry and plenty of audience participation there is always something new and fresh to enjoy - especially if you like something a bit different and yearn for a more caring and sharing community. Most months there is a 'special guest' to enthral, entertain and inspire as well. Why not take a look at Meet of the Tongue's Facebook page? You can find out more about what to expect on a typical evening and keep up to date with all the latest news and event 'special guest' bookings here...
Meet of the Tongue
As for 'Once Upon an Old Town Christmas' you will love the enthusiasm of the Old Towner's of Hastings! Whatever they put their minds to the people of the Old Town do a fantastic job of making a success and throw themselves and their resources into 100%. You can bet your life that there will be plenty of people in period costume about and a light hearted atmosphere to warm even the most Scrooge like of hearts! Trust me, few do celebrations or put on a show like the Old Towner's of Hastings!
Dec 5th - The Ostrich Pub - Robertsbridge - 8PM-10PM
Meet of the Tongue
Meet of the Tongue is a contemporary ceilidh. The ceilidh was where everyone would gather in their community, take a turn by offering a poem, tale or music and in this way make the community story. In this tradition, @ Meet of the Tongue there is no clear line between audience and performer. Instead everyone hosts a generous and eclectic space for 'regulars' and invited professional guests to perform spoken word, music or tales... Always varied, sometimes extraordinary and occasionally naughty.
Dec 6th - Hastings Old Town 10AM-5PM
Once Upon an Old Town Christmas
Let's make this the best Christmas yet and what better way to start off the festivities, than by going to the quaint and beautiful Hastings Old Town for a day of activities laid on by the community.
There will be a Christmas Market in Courthouse Street, Children's games in the High Street, a Craft Fair in All Saints Church, a Shopping trail through the old town, a choir, carols, drumming.
- See more at: http://www.eventsintowns.com/event/3192#sthash.s7JAPeKh.dpuf
Both of these events should be enormous fun! I have been going to Meet of the Tongue evenings for a few years now and they always turn out to be memorable. With a mixture of traditional storytelling, music, poetry and plenty of audience participation there is always something new and fresh to enjoy - especially if you like something a bit different and yearn for a more caring and sharing community. Most months there is a 'special guest' to enthral, entertain and inspire as well. Why not take a look at Meet of the Tongue's Facebook page? You can find out more about what to expect on a typical evening and keep up to date with all the latest news and event 'special guest' bookings here...
Meet of the Tongue
As for 'Once Upon an Old Town Christmas' you will love the enthusiasm of the Old Towner's of Hastings! Whatever they put their minds to the people of the Old Town do a fantastic job of making a success and throw themselves and their resources into 100%. You can bet your life that there will be plenty of people in period costume about and a light hearted atmosphere to warm even the most Scrooge like of hearts! Trust me, few do celebrations or put on a show like the Old Towner's of Hastings!
Thursday 6 November 2014
'Chestnut Tree House Children's Hospice Charity'
Christmas can be a stressful time for all of us but imagine for a moment how you might feel if you had a small son or a daughter with a terminal illness. It doesn't bear thinking about does it but sadly there are a number of parents each year who have to face up to dealing with a Christmas with a child for whom that Christmas is likely to be their last.
'Chestnut Tree House' is THE children's hospice for Sussex. I say 'the' because it is the ONLY such establishment in that area and as such is constantly in demand and in need of funds. Aside from a government grant of 250,000 a year, the hospice has to raise the rest of the money (currently around 3 million per annum) it needs to operate itself and that is a huge task in itself.
The hospice is situated at Arundel and looks after 300 or more children and their families at any one time. The work that they do in bringing comfort, support and making sure that the children involved and their parents get to make the most of whatever time they have left together is amazing and support continues for parents even after their loved one has died.
In 2001, I had a friend of mine, Simon Patrick Kerr Griffiths, commit suicide on me. Simon was a troubled soul and did not have a happy or productive life in the main. He grew up in Chichester and went 'off the rails' as a teenager engaging in many criminal activities some of which caused considerable disruption and upset to others. Simon suffered greatly with anxiety and depression - a condition that ran in his family - and so, while he cannot be completely forgiven for his actions, was not truly responsible for them either. Since his death, I have though about him and his life a lot and the conclusion I have come to is that in many ways he was a child born into this world that never really had a chance right from the off. I see those poor little souls who end up at Chestnut Tree House like that which is why each year I make a donation to the hospice. Life is NOT fair and not everybody does get a 'fair shake' at living a long and productive life. While I grieve for Simon he did at least get to spend 55 years on this planet. The kids at Chestnut Tree House don't have that luxury to look forward to...
I know things are tough at this time of year but if you can spare a few pounds this Christmas a donation to Chestnut Tree House is a gift for those who are most in need of a fabulous Christmas. If you can achieve so much with so little just by cutting down on a few beers or eating a few less mince pies this year isn't it worth the sacrifice?
You can find out more about the work that Chestnut Tree House does and learn how and where you can donate to the cause here: http://www.chestnut-tree-house.org.uk
The hospice is situated at Arundel and looks after 300 or more children and their families at any one time. The work that they do in bringing comfort, support and making sure that the children involved and their parents get to make the most of whatever time they have left together is amazing and support continues for parents even after their loved one has died.
In 2001, I had a friend of mine, Simon Patrick Kerr Griffiths, commit suicide on me. Simon was a troubled soul and did not have a happy or productive life in the main. He grew up in Chichester and went 'off the rails' as a teenager engaging in many criminal activities some of which caused considerable disruption and upset to others. Simon suffered greatly with anxiety and depression - a condition that ran in his family - and so, while he cannot be completely forgiven for his actions, was not truly responsible for them either. Since his death, I have though about him and his life a lot and the conclusion I have come to is that in many ways he was a child born into this world that never really had a chance right from the off. I see those poor little souls who end up at Chestnut Tree House like that which is why each year I make a donation to the hospice. Life is NOT fair and not everybody does get a 'fair shake' at living a long and productive life. While I grieve for Simon he did at least get to spend 55 years on this planet. The kids at Chestnut Tree House don't have that luxury to look forward to...
I know things are tough at this time of year but if you can spare a few pounds this Christmas a donation to Chestnut Tree House is a gift for those who are most in need of a fabulous Christmas. If you can achieve so much with so little just by cutting down on a few beers or eating a few less mince pies this year isn't it worth the sacrifice?
You can find out more about the work that Chestnut Tree House does and learn how and where you can donate to the cause here: http://www.chestnut-tree-house.org.uk
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