Introducing Me!
As part of the #blaugust blogging month of August most people do an introduction in week 1. We are running out of days in the first week, so I think it is time to get to know me.
Those who regularly read my blog (thank you) will know some or all of what follows, but there may be a nuget or two that is new. I tend to keep my online life quite generic and I don't share a lot of personal details, but enough to stimulate some interest in Me as a person, rather than a collection of words online.
The Basics
My name is David, my pronouns are he/him, I am currently 55 years young. In my head I am around 26 but the bag of bones insists I am mid-fifties. I was born in Scotland, and now live my life between Southern Scotland and Southern Spain. I float between the two regularly as my work-life permits a lot of flexibility.
My other-half doesn't have an online presence, so I never share much. We have been together 24 years, are not married, have no children, and one beautiful dog. A perfect life, we think.
Professionally
Keeping it vague... I spent 30 years as a technologist working for a variety of Companies -- four in total. In the middle of my career I started my own business, and eventually employed 20+ people. It's hard work when you are responsible for the income (life) of so many others. After 8 years I decided to sell it, took a few years out and then returned to the rat-race where someone paid me to turn up each day.
More recently I gave it all up -- totally changed my carer to do more community focused work. I wanted to prove that I could do something in life other than technology. It was a big step at my age. I took a massive pay cut, but love my new life. I worked hard to have what we have, so now I just maintain a comfortable life rather than strive for more.
Personality
At 20 years old I was shy and quiet. As I grew as a person I found my public personality and by the time I was creeping towards 40 I was happy in my own skin and more confident. By the time I was 50 I had reached that amazing place were you don't give a damn what other people think of you and you do exactly what you want, without fear of being judged. It's life changing.
I am now a happy-go-lucky, relaxed, chatty individual. I am direct and honest with people, but never rude or hurtful. But if you piss me off I will let you know.
I believe everyone should live in harmony and be understanding and accepting. I have no faith, however I totally respect people with their own beliefs -- just don't try and push it on me, as I would not force my own on you.
For all of my adult life I have volunteered with various charities, and I continue to do so as my life experiences grow and I can give back to the community.
Hobbies
I am happy to try most things and I am always trying something new. You name it, I have probably tried it. I love the idea of being creative so I am currently going to pottery class when I am at our village in Spain. I've tried knitting, crochet, and I'd love to try sewing as I admire anyone who can make clothes. I'd like to learn to paint, but I am not sure you can be taught. I think it's a skill you either have or not.
I enjoy writing and I believe there is a book in me bursting to get out. I've dabbled in some ideas and have written a few chapters of two different books.
I am not interested in sport; watching or participating. I did however enjoy cross-country running in my twenties. And I played golf to a reasonable level as a teenager.
I've never been a gamer, although I love technology.
I enjoy drinking wine (mostly red), but in moderation. I've never been one to lose control of my own body so I know when to stop.
I also discovered gin some years ago. I now do Gin Tasting events for charity fund raisers. People turn up and listen to me talk for about 40 mins about gin, the process, the tonics, the garnishes, and how to taste. We then sample (usually 4) gins over an hour or so. I have a collection of about 60 different gins as I am always looking for new and exciting ones to talk about. The tasting events are usually for about 20 people, but I once did 89 people. It was fun but hard work keeping the room focused. I've run the events in village halls, gardens, a restaurant, and a book shop. And it always raises money for good causes.
I'd like to host a podcast show but not sure where to begin yet!
In Summary
I hope I've turned out to be a decent human being, who can get on with most people. I don't tolerate twats and will let you know, but otherwise I am calm, relaxed, and easy going.
I'm a open book, within reason, if you want to ask me anything.
You've read all about me and you are still here?! Impressive.
--the end-- (was that too much?!)
Other interesting Intros in the spirit of blaugust
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