Discussion of an amusing column in a recent Tatong Tattler by U3A member Andi Stevenson as a ‘stand-up comedy like’ form of memoir began our March session. Andi, who has just had her ears pierced, writes about shifting from viewing earrings as a problem during her ‘bush bashing’ teenage years and lifetime of work in farming, to seeing them having great potential to identify mobile numbers to protect her through years of forgetfulness! The use of ear tagging stock for keeping track of the origin and movements of cattle, Andi concludes, is a perfect model for her own adornments.
Heather Hartland’s thoughtfully written story tracking the progress of equality for women in the defence forces then led us into ‘Her Story’ - a group of stories celebrating women in our lives.
Barry reflected on his mother’s generation and the role his mother and aunties played during and after the war. Carmyl’s mother Florence (Beth) played a less high-profile role but was no less influential. The conclusion to her father’s tribute to Beth in the newspaper said much: ‘So loved, so loving, so lovely’.
For Ray, ‘Auntie Kath’ provided a major reference point for his life and for the joy missing from much of his formative years. In a second memoir, through the threads of his life, “Your God’s” grace was a frequent feature.
Jocelyn’s career frustrations were an impetus for her son James’ later academic achievements. ‘Born in the wrong generation’, her career aspirations as a teacher were put on hold to support her farmer-husband. Later writing her life story and volunteering abroad, she offered James the incentive to see visions and dream dreams.
Graham wrote his introduction to his mum, Joy, in the first person. ‘Joy’ articulated and scoped her heritage which would be the foundation for her later achievements in the business world. His cousin Heather’s many quality features were enumerated by Neville, as was the influence of her family heritage. ‘Generous to a fault’, Heather was honored through Neville’s memoir.
For our final story in celebration of International Women’s Day, Bev chose to recognize journalist and documentary maker Anne Deveson. Anne’s memoir ‘Tell Me I’m Here’, which recounts her experiences with her son Jonathon, who had paranoid schizophrenia, became a pivotal text for Bev’s understanding of a blended family tragedy and her work as a social worker.
Our main ‘500 words’ topic for our April session is ‘The (eg Best, Worst, most memorable, …) Holiday/s I ever had’…’ A chance to write about the best, happiest, worst, or most memorable holiday (or holiday period) you ever had. Lead us through the events which shaped your view of the holiday, allowing us to share in your elation or disappointment. Alternatively, you could choose a topic traditionally offered in April which provides “A chance to reminisce about memories of memorial days or religious events, such as Anzac Day or Easter, which have stayed with us over time”.
Graham Jensen
Heather Hartland’s thoughtfully written story tracking the progress of equality for women in the defence forces then led us into ‘Her Story’ - a group of stories celebrating women in our lives.
Barry reflected on his mother’s generation and the role his mother and aunties played during and after the war. Carmyl’s mother Florence (Beth) played a less high-profile role but was no less influential. The conclusion to her father’s tribute to Beth in the newspaper said much: ‘So loved, so loving, so lovely’.
For Ray, ‘Auntie Kath’ provided a major reference point for his life and for the joy missing from much of his formative years. In a second memoir, through the threads of his life, “Your God’s” grace was a frequent feature.
Jocelyn’s career frustrations were an impetus for her son James’ later academic achievements. ‘Born in the wrong generation’, her career aspirations as a teacher were put on hold to support her farmer-husband. Later writing her life story and volunteering abroad, she offered James the incentive to see visions and dream dreams.
Graham wrote his introduction to his mum, Joy, in the first person. ‘Joy’ articulated and scoped her heritage which would be the foundation for her later achievements in the business world. His cousin Heather’s many quality features were enumerated by Neville, as was the influence of her family heritage. ‘Generous to a fault’, Heather was honored through Neville’s memoir.
For our final story in celebration of International Women’s Day, Bev chose to recognize journalist and documentary maker Anne Deveson. Anne’s memoir ‘Tell Me I’m Here’, which recounts her experiences with her son Jonathon, who had paranoid schizophrenia, became a pivotal text for Bev’s understanding of a blended family tragedy and her work as a social worker.
Our main ‘500 words’ topic for our April session is ‘The (eg Best, Worst, most memorable, …) Holiday/s I ever had’…’ A chance to write about the best, happiest, worst, or most memorable holiday (or holiday period) you ever had. Lead us through the events which shaped your view of the holiday, allowing us to share in your elation or disappointment. Alternatively, you could choose a topic traditionally offered in April which provides “A chance to reminisce about memories of memorial days or religious events, such as Anzac Day or Easter, which have stayed with us over time”.
Graham Jensen
