(photo Jane Fromont)

Husband and wife team, Mary Kippenberger and Peter Charlton-Jones have lived in Otane, Central Hawkes Bay for the past 22 years. They both have backgrounds in social work while Mary is a registered teacher and Peter an Anglican Minister. Five years ago both left their jobs to hit the road fulltime. If they are not wandering the globe telling tall stories to small people they are conducting workshops, drama classes, music festivals, presenting plays and concerts and recording music on their Otane property. Aside from these distractions Peter plays in a jazz band and a blues band and Mary debates or speaks after dinner.

They have four children and six grandchildren. Five of the grandchildren and their respective parents plus one brother and a spare nephew live on the farm with them. It is a happy crew! One grandchild has escaped with her parents but they are only a drive away and country kids need a city cousin for a bit of respite! It’s a grand life.

 

 Story is our first language – long before the written word we told stories. Our own stories give us a foundation, a place on which to stand. They say who we are.

Our stories can elicit compassion, laughter, sorrow, anger, empathy and support from others. History shows that people gathering together & sharing their stories is the beginning of change.

Stories are important. Let’s not lose them to technology!

 

 

 

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