Fes,
this is not an entry, but I couldn't help posting on this thread, so I will share a few thoughts.
I don't know how these things are in NZ, but at this very moment my uncle is on the same path, and I have an idea of how steep it is.
I know your boy already is a knife enthusiast, one of those who will grow up seeing knives as tools, learning how to appreciate them, use them, and respect them. In short, he will have his chair on our porch in ten years from now, and he will be most welcome (along with his pictures of himself and his father skinning whales with 10 y.o. GEC trappers

)
I also have no idea of the story behind your fight, nor is it any of my business; what matters, anyway, is not the situation in itself, but the fact you had the will and strength to fight for him, no matter you win or loose. And that's a lesson that you will pass to your boy.
Sidenote and joke: wasn't it "V for Vendetta"?

Thanks for your giveaway Fes...but mostly, for being one of us. Oh, and shoot me an email from time to time
Fausto
