College Catch Up!

Yesterday I was lucky enough to see a very special mate, someone who has been in my life for over thirty years and someone who I regard as a brother. I met Nathan in 1987, when I went to college in Fareham and we have remained friends ever since. Sadly I don't see him as often as I would like; our lives travelled in very different directions and putting aside the time to catch up has become increasingly difficult. However yesterday afternoon we both managed to find the time to have a chat. The last occasion we spoke in person was in 2012, at one of my legendary fancy dress parties, celebrating The Queen's Diamond Jubilee!

Nathan brought along his new partner Louise, who was an absolute delight. I haven't seen him this happy in a long time; it was actually lovely to see. Anyone who knows me understands just how important I think relationships are. Spending your life with the person you love is important. These two are happy and clearly devoted to one another, what more can you ask for in a partnership. I wish them well and am pleased my oldest friend from college is content and in high spirits once again.

We spent the afternoon at the old 'Still & West,' where we actually used to go as students way back when. It has changed a lot since then, but still has the charm and character it always had.

As is usual in these situations, we talked about our misspent youth, the times we lived through as teenagers and the memories we both share. Nathan is the only person from my college days that I speak to regularly and It is always a pleasure to look back to the good old days, because that is what they were; happy, carefree and defining in nature.

Nathan just happened to mention my love of photographs, which is rather obsessional at times. I was probably the only person who actually took pictures during our time at  College. Don't forget this was many years before digital cameras and smart phones were invented. I did actually carry a box brownie around with me most of the time, but really have no idea why; I suppose I was collecting memories, even in 1987. Good job I did, otherwise I would have very little left from that time. As I approach my 50th Birthday, I need these snapshots to jog the old grey matter; they provide me with a great source of comfort, especially now, as I get older.

It was fantastic chatting with Nathan and Lou and I hope to see them again very soon. The time I am spending in the UK is important for many reasons; renewing friendships has become a priority, possibly because I am not sure how long I will be living here and want to fit in as much as I can. By the time I leave I want to be sure I have seen as many friends and as much of my family as I can, however long that takes!