Pre-transition.
My DIY skills began a few months after marriage. Basically I began doing things around the house for reasons of economic necessity and to overcome my true feelings. The first thing I ever built was a garage. It was built from blocks with a tiled saddle roof and was very successful - even if I say it myself! I installed central heating and rewired a number of our homes although plastering has never been one of my successes. I believe my building skills to be inherent as both my grandfathers were stonemasons and their skills were passed on through the genes!
After leaving College I joined the local Motor Club and began driving in the smaller events. I began in the 'novice' class and drove BMC Mini Coopers. When I tell people about it these days they tend to look at me as if I were odd (which of course I am!). They always ask 'How did you fit into the Mini' to which I reply 'I was more supple in those days!' The enjoyment rallying gave me was immense although I did tend to think a little too much about my car to be highly successful. However I did reach the giddy heights of 'expert' before I lost interest. I still love to watch television coverage of such events.
This is something I loved and hated. I would have loved to have rock-climbed but had and still have a fear of heights! Whilst potholing the height thing wasn't a problem because I could never see the ground! I always used a lamp which gave a poor light for that very reason. I found the various shapes and scenes underground wonderful although my head tended to take some hard knocks even within the helmet. On one occasion I got stuck between two rocks and spent about two hours to free myself. From that day to this I have never been underground!
I have always had an intense interest in the exploration of space and consequently in science fiction. I went to see every possible sci fi film as a youngest and use to read everything available. Now, with fiction becoming fact, my interest seems to have moved to the study for extra-terrestial life - something I believe in fervently.
I have always had an intense interest in most classical music including some of the famous oratories. As a young person I played the piano but expressed little interest. Because of my bad stammer at that age, my Mum allowed me to drop lessons - something I regret from the bottom of my heart. I love Mozart, Vivaldi and Handel particularly but am prepared to listen to anything.
During the Tory Government reign from 1980s to the early '90s I became very interested in politics - or rather in attempting to put the UK back on it's feet. Up to around 1983 I had very little interest but became politically active with the emergance of the SDP. I became active for the first time. I love the cut and thrust of political debate but always remember the words of my maternal grandmother - 'always avoid discussing politics and religion, they are always a source of conflict'.
In my younger life it was left to me to cut the lawns. After marriage, when we had our own gardens I enjoyed the peace one experiences whilst keeping the lawn and borders in trim. Many people hate weeding borders - I find it totally relaxing and rewarding. It's something I can do whilst thinking of more important matters and when complete a freshly dug border looks so much better.
My wife and I have been caravanners for many years. Normally we used to spend our summer vacation in France - a country we both love and will continue to love. We found it a carefree and restful holiday. Unfortunately, we intend selling our 'van' shortly as my wife and I have separated.
We have been on many motoring holidays to Western Europe and enjoyed every moment of it. However, on one occasion it wasn't enjoyable at the time. My wife was hospitalised in Como, Northern Italy and upon our return to the UK she needed further treatment for about six weeks. On that occasion the sight of the 'white cliffs of Dover' were a sight we shall never forget!
I became a member of Rotary International in 1988. I joined one of the Swansea Clubs and became involved from the start. For two years I was Vice Chairman of Community Service and for a number of years I chaired the International Committee where I was involved in raising money for Water Aid, Vision Aid Overseas and many other worthy causes. Sadly as my condition became more acute I resigned - it's something I shall always remember.
During transition.
I was brought up in a family where the male members were not expected to do any domestic chores. Consequently, I was never taught even the rudiments of household duties. Over the last two years my interest in cooking has developed at an incredible rate. I love to cook, especially Chinese and Italian cuisine. My skills are improving and my wife, who is a superb cook, often acknowledges this fact. She first thought my interest was through necessity for the future but I have assured her my interest is genuine - I just love cooking especially if the diners enjoy it!
Fashion is something I have always been interested in but surreptitiously. Now I can be more open about it. I had lots of advice from my wife to help to develop Fiona's style. Being very tall my choice is limited but I do realise keeping things simple is the best way forward. I recently visited an Image Consultant in London and now have a better understanding of style and colour.
My choice of popular music has changed over the last three years. Pop music was something I thought I had left behind many years ago but things have changed. A great deal of the older pieces I now enjoy and although thought of by the younger generation as being old fashioned I do love the tunes of the Beatle, The BeeGees and many of the older groups.
I've always enjoyed driving although it has become a little more stressful of late. The volume
of traffic is forever increasing and I have found whilst driving as Fiona I do get some hassle from
male drivers - something I hardly encountered as John. I recently sold my Volvo 940 Estate and now
drive a Renault Clio. I've also noticed my driving ability has slightly deteriorated especially in the area of parking. I used to be able to park my estate on a sixpence. Over the last six months I have nudged three cars whilst parking the Clio! I put it all down to hormones!
I obviously still enjoy Classical Music, Political Discussion, Travel and Gardening but a lot has changed. I find it quite amazing how my interests have altered over a relatively short period.
Created by: Fiona E. Scott.
Last Update: 31st. October 1997
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