Always had some interest in space, collected all the satellite and first man in space news paper cuttings ( still got them ! ). Tried to make a scope or two in my early teen years, the sky was darker then. Always followed all the news on astronomical stuff over the years and a few visits to the observatory. The big hindrance was always time and money, equipment was expensive !!
Till I spotted the 114EQ Newt on TradeMe and got it for $40, I gave them $50 when I collected it. It's been a downhill slide ever since
Have to say after that after redundancy, job changes and other issues astronomy has been a big life saver for me. Given me a whole new purpose and project as I approach retirement. Just wish I had the energy and eyes of my youth to take real advantage of the resources now available.