Myopic Vision

It was my birthday yesterday and so I'm lamenting the loss of my 20s. Technically I'm no longer in my 20s, but mentally I'm still 18 and probably always will be. I had hoped the day would pass off as just another day, but it didn't. My friend Sam (also from New Zealand) and I went to lunch. An hour, some good food, desserts and a few wines later we were suitably merry but certainly not legless. I got back to the office to be greeted by an exquisite and rather large bouquet of flowers and a large card from my bankers. I got spoiled when I got home with presents from my family in London. And loads of emails and some phone calls from friends and family. And this morning, I got a beautiful plant from my friend Sam. So all in all it has been a wonderful 18th Birthday. Thank you to everyone who made it special.

It’s hard to believe that the Steve Irwin is no more. It's always such a shame when someone who has devoted their lives to saving others (wildlife in his case) dies. I remember watching loads of the Crocodile Hunter series and they were always informative and entertaining. One always had a sense that although Irwin flirted with danger on a regular basis, he seemed to know what he was doing. He had an infectious enthusiasm and was passionate about wildlife. It's apparent from all the tributes flowing in that his conservation crusade reached many a home across the globe. His dedication should be applauded. The world has lost a true wildlife warrior and he will be missed.