Life is Healthy

No the program wasn't really that bad!!!! But with Halloween just around the corner and we were in a HAUNTED monastery or were we? Its just a lot of strange things occurred, whilst playing cards the number 666 kept appearing and there was a murder and a suicide on the program! Okay both were faked but still! and of course the Quiemada ritual!

I must say though, a very good and highly enjoyable time was had. We had a lot of very talented individuals, from flute playing, operatic singing (in the church was amazing), murder mysteries, Shakespearean recitals (sadly we ran out of time to hear these), and proper actors - whether amateur dramatics or not, which all led to a much better week, so well done for offering so much of yourselves.

Everyone behaved themselves this week too - no late-comers, Dylan made his on stage debut (and sadly killed himself later; NO, he didn't die on stage!), only problem was he was SOOOoooo HUNGRY!!! Carmen and I were parodied and we found out Carmen has a hidden side!! ;)

Photos of the week are of course available for your viewing and downloading pleasure HERE

So guys, yet another done and dusted!!! After finishing Gredos and not being at San Zoilo for a while a part of me was looking forward to it, however I also knew my favourite reason (person) to go there had left; boo hoo!!!

So we met the Anglos and surprisingly full of life - I say this as its fair to say they were a mature group. What REALLY surprised me was the oldest was also one of the most fun, and kept me on my toes: BOB! He also had a lot to offer and took part in what ever he could, great work; some younger folks could learn a lot from you ;)

Well the week started off badly, Oris was late (which became a trademark of hers), but worse still the bus broke down causing the already long journey to be an extra hour! However the rest of the week was good, alot of activities and performances, some new material: I actually completed Sudoku live in 1 minute 45 seconds which was great. Sceptics insisting I cheated! Huh! burn them all, lol!!!

I contact Houdini during the evening, which surprised everyone - although I'm happy to say DYLAN is here all the way from America!!! So get ready to meet my "new" friend!

I think I mentioned this before but the one thing which is REALLY starting to annoy me is the Anglos which are habitually late for EVERYTHING!!! I mean come on, how hard is it to be somewhere on time, it ain't like they have trains and planes to catch, once you are at the venue you are a captive audience. It shows disrespect to the program and the other participants. So I urge you if you are going to repeat a program and reading this, please take note!!!

Well you were on this program if you:
Spent an extra hour on the bus!
Went swimming in the river,
Had your name in Bob's notebook (mine was several times),
Met Houdini,
Had it harder than anyone else, and had to live in a lake!
Hardly remember Friday morning,
Danced the Macarena,
Were always looking for Oris
Went for Tapa's instead of eating at the hotel!

I'm sure each person has their own highlights, lets hear them!

In the meantime, here are the photos I managed to take of the week
CLICK ME

Lets see yours!

Okay so Richard Vaughan stuck his neck out to do a young adults program (well when I say he stuck his neck out) he asked for it to be put together and Rob, Marissa & I ran the program.

So was it worth it?? I must say there was a lot of speculation and apprehension before the start of the program - having worked with kids, teens & adults I tried to keep an open mind give them benefit of the doubt and see how it went, but I expected it to be full of energy.

I was too right for the most part. The week flew by with very few issues, the key factor for every night was the alcohol consumption (something I think will be monitored closer next time) as a few could not handle it or handled it badly. Although I'm pleased to say the majority were in fact well behaved and responsible: Well done guys.

So will Richard do the program again? I'm sure he will; A. theres a market B. there was no real problems. After all it was a success, only time will tell if there were any REAL issues - I reckon 9 months should be long enough to see ;)

All of them got involved and again I managed to see the magic of the program unfold as people slowly came out of themselves and their characters shone through. The already confident folks naturally blossomed and encouraged the others - and I am even more pleased to say that no ego's came with either group, which helped to build relationships quickly, although we have an MC in the making with Craig! Think about it dude!

All in all I was more than happy - although I must admit didn't offer 100% of myself as I was slightly distracted with issues back in the UK. I am due back in only 10 days now, and don't know whether I will get to see and have my daughter - which is really messing with my head. China I miss you so much baby and cant wait to see you and tell you all about my travels. I'm hoping for good news and to spend quality time with her; also after having my wallet stolen I have no recent photos so i need some of them too, I bet your real big now?!

As usual all the photos are posted HERE

Anyway only one more week and I'll be there, until then, bye for now!

Well another week over, they keep mounting up. For this program I was in San Zoilo and what a week mixed with highs and lows. There was a strange tension on this program which I hadnt experienced before as the week when on so did the tensions, I'm just happy it didn't end up ruining what otherwise was a good program.

The usual mix of activities to get people bonding and maybe knowing more about you than you would normally reveal, 1 to 1's and telephone sessions kept them all very busy, but I felt this week very draining and struggled to keep my energy levels up and biting my lip - obviously something I'm going to keep working on.

The theatre went well again lessons learn't there too - a new sketch which was funny almost fell flat (work in progress), although we had some excellent input from the participants which is always nice.

Party night was fun and David and I danced to its raining men - dont ask! Anyway it was really cool and he danced very well, in fact i think he carried me through it really, but i noticed camera flashes galour so the must be some interesting photos out there! Not satisfied with making me sweat he turned to Marisa and they cha cha cha'd there asses off, very cool indeed.

When I returned to Madrid, I went to find my new flat and move in, so glad to have a place to call home again, it wont be lonely as I'm sharing with a guy and a girl, so that will be nice too, the place is very cool has what I need - which isnt alot. And tonight I'm off to do it all over again with a new bunch of Anglos - keep smiling ;)

If you want to see a selection of photos of the time we shared check HERE

Well the time has finally arrived to earn my wings. Having been on two programs with both Masters and watched them work, it was time to put my money were my mouth is and prove I was worthy.

As usual it was an early start (did I ever mention I hate mornings?) however even earlier as we had further to travel as we set off for San Zoila - It was a long day, preparing scripts and activities for the group - this all goes on behind the scenes then I try to make it look as smooth as possible, lol.

I took the chance to get to know the group a little, it was a rather nice mix of ages and personalities which helped settle my nerves. I finished my final touches to scripts etc, and then encouraged people to participate in them - well when I say encouraged (I had a role that only THEY could do), which got them to perform; result! This was a great group that seemed up for whatever was asked of them and I was happy about that.

On Monday night we had a few sketches, a relaxation technique by Janelle (a very sweet Aussie) some magic from myself and Simon (another Aussie; far too talented for my liking, lol) rocked into the night on his guitar.

Tuesday was hectic with three sketch's and props to organise as well as me having to at least attempt to outdo Simon (that Aussie guy I mentioned), with even more impressive magic! Tuesday seemed a strange day with only a smattering of applause; not sure if they didn't get the sketches or what?

Wednesday was far better - maybe the ear was opening up now for the Spaniards because they seemed to get most everything this time. There was an AWESOME improv sketch, a mind gym exercise and Simon (the Aussie; said through gritted teeth) had yet again managed to upstage me with his singing and playing skills the night before - so I conceded and decided to teach him and the audience a trick! Well when I say that a trick took place and they had no idea how - but Simon was the Magi in this instance so earnt the credit, which he deserved as he perfectly ad libbed his way through the act.

Thursday nice easy day, trip to town all was going well; TOO WELL!!!! After spending a good three hours putting together a play list for the party to please as many people as possible, I plugged in my hard drive only to hear it POP!! The electrics blew my hard drive - no party!!!
So faced with the dilemma what to do I put the options to the group and like the true group they had become they rallied together using Ipod's to ensure the party went as well as it could be; and it was good! It was also good to see the spirit of the group come together like that.

Friday - tearful goodbyes and photos galore as we all head back to our lives, I do hope this time people will keep in touch, but it is hard for all concerned. Either way it has once again been a pleasure meeting and getting to know a group of total strangers with one objective learning English.

All in all I was very pleased with the results of the program and very happy with what I had managed to achieve and learn - the group also thought so, as they gave me a standing ovation at the end of the ceremony (just to see me cry, dam them!!!)

As usual I have posted photos HERE

The weeks seem to fly by at the moment. I've just completed yet another week in sunny Gredos; the weather has been excellent, this time under the wing of Greg as MC and me as his support. However that is until next week (which is only 2 days away), when I will be flying solo in San Zoilo.

This week proved very useful in order to try out ideas and see how the group reacts to different situations and figureheads, I personally thought the group worked very well together. The mix was quite vast from youngsters through to the more mature ;)

Having said that all the groups gave plenty of themselves and each took a turn to shine whether in a 1to1 situation or at the party, in which alcohol always helps (I really MUST learn to dance; although its a great excuse to hold a chica whilst she moves, lol).
The games were very enjoyable and it was great to see so many of you enjoying them and yourselves. One reason I love this program is the fact it helps you loose some of your inhibitions and brings out the real YOU!

I got to perform the neurotic Allan Felix (Woody Allen) in a play and although I kept losing my accent I think I did a good job, Greg seemed happy enough. I also got to act out some sketches I had put together as well as working with the improvisation group - who did me more than proud, well done to you all for having the cojones (balls) to play your roles ;)
I also got to show off my magic skills, which I really enjoyed too.

Yet again another great group, I don't know how it happens each time but it does. I hope to see some if not most of you all again, but don't expect the same program as I aim to keep you on your toes. I only hope I can be as good as you all think I will be; thank you ALL for your encouragement and your participation.

As usual I have posted a collection of photos to remind you of our experience HERE

The last day seems to come so fast and suddenly you saying your goodbyes to everyone, trying to hold back any tears – I must say that even though I got on well with everyone I didn’t feel the same connections I had on the previous experience, that said I was still sad none the less to see them leave.

We all gathered together in the court yard, for a group photo to remember our time together.

Then slowly one by one they drifted off back to their lives and families until only Carrie and I were left, at which point we picked up our bags and headed off for the final few days of our ‘vacation’ .

Here are just some of the highlights for you to enjoy

Spain - Vaughan Town Mar 07

Carrie and I had a long discussion over what my options were and what I wanted to do, she agreed that it was up to me to pursue the possibility, so I did; I await the outcome.

We watched the Spaniards today as they brushed up their grammar and presenting skills as they needed to do a presentation to the group about any topic they saw fit.

It was great to see the confidence shine in them and too see just how far the had come since day 1, some Spaniards didn’t believe this to be the case for themselves, but could see it in the others. Each person (Anglos & Spaniards) had taken on a great journey and I’m please I could accompany them and glad they were there with me.

Dinner time – my last chance to get apple pie! – I begged and pleaded in Spanish with the waiteress but alas no pie; just a final flan, I stomped my feet like a big kid! When I told her I didn’t like it she replied (in Spanish) “I don’t like ketchup!!” I think she thought I was American! We all just laughed.

Later that evening we had a party – and I learnt that yet again I couldn’t dance, I really should learn! So I took the opportunity to snap away at the dancers and my alcohol inebriated friends, which was funny, Phil can really move!

Mid week seems odd as you start to feel drained and forget who you spoke to about what, so I brought out my conversation cards, these were something I made 5 years back for some other work I did for team building exercises – the questions are very random and cover most every topic you can imagine.
The Spaniards enjoyed these on the 1 to 1’s as it was quite diverse and engaging for them.

A few telephone sessions this time in a 1 to 1 situation with a scenario; renting a property. Generally the calls last around 20 minutes, then you discuss what took place and any issues you were aware of.

A walk into the village and around the grounds again but not for too long as it was getting quite cold out.

I also noticed that Spaniards have taken several words and over use them – “in this moment” rather than right now, or “for example” they have examples for most everything, to try to make it clear what they are saying, rather just saying it, and “more or less” and “impossible” of course most everything is possible if you simply try. My all time favourite is the adaption of “Okee Dokee” into the language, it just cracks me up.

All was going well until... ...it was announced there was the opportunity for work as a teacher; I felt my body tingle as on the last program this was what I hoped for, now was a possibility, I needed time to think.

At dinner I asked nicely for apple pie, told "tomorrow" – knowing full well it wouldn’t be! Strangely again the topic was swearing and the emphasis on the words, why is it with any language that’s the first thing you want to learn!?

That night we did the 'Quemada' ritual which involves reading an incantation (all in good fun, nothing esoteric) and burning a large vat of alcohol which ingredients are placed into, the alcohol was not a strong as last time but still very enjoyable.

Started too early for me, not only that but it had been snowing!

Breakfast was an easy conversation to break you into the first session, then more 1 to 1’s and another conference call.
We went for a walk around the village, a nice quaint place with little life but nice surroundings, a chance for a few photo opportunities.

We spent the afternoon preparing for the main show that night. I was surprised to see from 45 minutes of nothingness, everything coming together in the last 15 minutes - a whole scenario was formulated. The scene had been set – A MURDER MYSTERY!

We parted for lunch and siesta and upon our return the Spaniards had thrown themselves into their respective roles and surprised us with characters and alibis!!
We then put the pieces of the puzzle together to produce (in my opinion) the best performance of the week.

I played one of the organisers Greg and did my best to imitate his accent and mannerisms, he was the victim (so I was dead for a lot of the performance; but when I was alive boy did you know it). We had 3 Spaniards who each plotted to kill Greg in various different ways and two Anglo police one a bumbling copper the other smarter, and a narrator to set the scene and give up to the minute reports. I must say it was quite a performance and lasted around 25 minutes in the end, with ad libs – and my dead corpse chuckling away as I listened to all that was happening around me.

Greg (the real one) was in tears of laughter at the end – as they all tried to work out the motive as to why anyone would want to harm him, my corpse arose once more to criticise the whole performance at which point the whole cast ‘killed’ me (as Greg).

We broke apart for dinner and everyone was busy chatting, the wine was flowing and for the first time English swear words were brought up!? Of all the things to want to learn, sure we all do it but I felt kinda strange ‘teaching’ the meaning of swear words.
We chatted about them for some time and then changed topics.

The pudding arrived... ...another BLOODY FLAN! There I swore!

I decided there and then to make it my goal to get an apple pie (tarte manzana) by the end of the week.

More 1 to 1’s with random strangers explaining everything from grammar, idioms to chit chat. Now don’t get me wrong I learnt alot from the Spaniards too, but the point was they learn from Anglos.

The 1 to 1’s are kinda strange in so much as you have 1 hour to talk about anything and really you have to be able to get on as well as communicate, because one hour sure can drag if you don’t, luckily I got on well with most if not all (at least I think I did).

In the afternoon we had a conference call, this involves three Spaniards and one Anglo playing out a scenario over the phone (so as not to take cues from body language etc, apparently the Spaniards hate the phone!?) anyway this always ends up in some sort of hysteria; even though they are supposed to be serious.
I had to decide who had the best boss and the Spaniards took it in turns to convince me their boss was best (the king of the potatoes nearly won but it fell apart near the end for him), then onto lunch, this is always a hive of activity with chat and food and one magical ingredient: WINE!!!

Once that starts flowing there’s no telling what may happen. Slightly disappointed yet another flan pudding :(

By the evening we were preparing for stage shows and gala performances, there was a performance from The Odd Couple with Spaniards and Anglos alike taking on roles to amuse the audience (those of us not performing) then yours truly took the audience on a journey through their minds eye, as I performed a mass meditation with a smattering of NLP and hypnotherapy techniques to get them to believe in themselves and each other, finally another sketch with some improvisation work from three Spaniards teaching us how to pick up girls.

All in all was a great finish to what was a long day.

Arrived to Richard giving his Oscar winning performance of stories that inspire and excite both the Anglos (that’s us) and the Spaniards (that’s them, you with me so far?).

After the chat we were given lunch and a welcome sight it was. We all sat at tables of four, each person sat checking out all those around; the room was full of around 30 strangers and a mix of English and broken English was being spoken.

After lunch was a 1 to 1 with Jose Maria – we walked outside to the town and chatted about this and that – he smiled intently, at which point I said he had no idea what I was talking about and he agreed saying I speak too fast! (its true, but the purpose is to be real English not a watered down version, so a slowed a little and made my choices of words more clear).

After the 1 to 1, I had another meeting where we explored the grounds of the Monastery, it is extremely old (well parts are, it appears to be slowly being rebuilt) a real nice place with a very peaceful atmosphere. Whilst sitting there drinking our cafe con leche (coffee) I start to hear the haunting chanting of monks!!!
The hotel plays the sound of the monks through a speaker system throughout the hotel; at first quite unnerving!

The main thing I love about these programs is you meet all sorts of wonderful people, from all walks of life; professionals, managers, chemists, photographers, authors and media professionals from all different countries; we had Kiwis, Americans, Aussies, Brits, Dutch & Spaniards.

With a mix such as this you always have something to talk about, as for myself, I decided this time I didn’t want to go as a ‘magician’ so left that side of me behind, and I applied other skills and abilities; to be revealed later.

Below are a few pictures from the last Vaughan Town we done in Gredos and the friends we made there. (including where I met Carrie)

Spain - Vaughan Town Dec 06

A free week in sunny Spain, really!?!? Well sort of, Spain wasn’t that sunny in fact it snowed! and the week was a working vacation.