this is a story of a Catholic working-class background in 1970s west Scotland on a council estate but with the same hopes and dreams as any child. Happiness stemmed from Christmas, holidays, TV, music, school, friends, church, family and hobbies. Holidays to Anstruther on the east coast in a caravan, day trips to zoos, castles contributed to happiness too. US programs such as The 6 Million Dollar Man, Charlies Angels and Logans Run, British TV and childrens novels influenced my life. Struggles were found with high school friends, but exam success and enjoying prizegivings and concerts and getting to know extended family and joining them for gala days and gatherings ensured a happy adolesence Religion, from 1st communion to caring church week ensured a good life under the schools ethos. There were disappointments such as discovering I was useless at most sports, practical skills and social skills, but I believe I had an upbringing which encouraged honesty and integrity against a harsh climate, low income in housing then lacking amenities and pollution. Nowadays they have central heating, secure doors and double glazing.