Sunday. After a read it was fairly late before I got to sleep last night despite the lack of sleep on Friday. This time there was no problem though and I’d gone through and turned Mike’s TV off at 11.30 pm so I knew he was well away. So my light went off at about 12.45 pm and I suspect it wasn’t long before the gentle sounds trickles from my lips. I woke at 5.54 am feeling much more refreshed than the day before. After nipping to the loo I turned the computer on to see the damage. There was quite a lot and quite a few comments on last night’s blogpost. I’m amazed at people’s generosity and kindness towards my posts since I realise they take some time to get through.
One of my emails was ‘Molly sent you a direct picture!’=> CLICK HERE TO SEE IT NOW guess where I didn’t click. It went straight to my trash so there were no repeats of last time even if it wasn’t the same woman. I could neither stand the embarrassment nor the possible excitement and I didn’t want a heart attack with Mike sleeping in the other room, he’d never hear me. At least I didn’t have to contend with the usual scams this morning. Maybe they were taking a Sunday off though who the heck would ever believe an email from the Tax Office on a Sunday anyway. At 7.00 am I went through to the kitchen to see to the fish. One of the plecs was on the front glass when I turned the light on but I saw the cory disappear into a strand of weed to hide away. I don’t know why he bothered as it was almost directly under the feeding hatch and he nearly got a headache when I dropped the tablet through. I wasn’t up for breakfast again, I find myself back where I used to be of not wanting to eat this early in the day even though the doctor recommended it. It was easier just to take my meds and make myself a coffee. Before taking it back to my room I prepared Mike’s cup as I had no idea what time he’d get up after being asleep from at least 11.30 pm. I wanted to be ready. After all, he might have set his alarm for some reason.
I went back and continued working. Saturday is when a lot of other people post too so there’s always plenty of commenting to do. If possible I like to re-tweet for as many authors as I can to increase their audience. Many of them have now become firm friends. It was getting on for 9.00 am when I was reaching an end of what was showing and I decided to get dressed before doing anything else. Recently I was asked to read and review a book for someone and I wanted an uninterrupted go at it from where I’d left off yesterday. I was doing really well and was just a few chapters from the end when I heard Mike stir. It was 10.00 am so I allowed to computer to sleep and went to make his coffee. I sat with him but in a sort of companionable silence as it takes a while for him to wake up properly. I know when he has done as the insults and quick retorts start flying. Today it was about 10.30 am.
We decided to take a quick run to Flint to look for something in one of the shops, what’s more we found it. We left home about 11.15 am and were done by 12.00 pm. I staggered and almost fell over when I asked Mike if he wanted a coffee and he refused never even checking to see if his insult friend Ceri was working. Instead he suggested going straight for lunch. Since everything I’d just bought was sweets I agreed. The traffic was a bit annoying again. Plenty of cars were out and about as people enjoyed the sunshine and warmth of the day, but the road works hadn’t progressed much. We reached The Ivy about 12.30 pm and parked up. Mike was none too happy when he had to move the car because another car came in and parked next to us but at a massive angle instead of being straight. He was worried they’d hit his car if they tried to reverse out. Chances are they would too. It was a stupid and thoughtless move. We saw Tariq by the side door and he called us over to look at the bars he was making to put up. We can’t figure out if it’s to keep the staff in or the customers out. After a chat he let us go in that way cutting off a big corner of the building we’d have to walk round otherwise. Today I’d brought individual sweets for all in the shape of Terry’s Chocolate Oranges. Some with exploding candy in and some with toffee which I hadn’t seen before. I passed Angie hers and Tariq’s and told her to pick the one she wanted. When Rob came out to deliver some meals I gave him one each for Shella and himself and Mike told him to make sure he got first choice. He got to laugh at my hair today though Angie said she liked it.
Angie brought the drinks over and we made our lunch selections then went out for a cigarette. The place was filling up and there were some pretty ladies sending Mike’s temperature up, he was beginning to pant. We’d just finished the smoke when Rob came out to tell us the meal was on the table but he didn’t know who was having what. He’d got them right though. They were as always very enjoyable. Between mouthfuls Mike flirted with anything that had a pulse while I just ate being out of practice with anything like that, by about 50 years I think. ( Mike says longer, a lot longer). After we’d eaten we took our time with the coffees and just enjoyed being there. When we were done I started to get my gloves on and picked up my crutches from the floor where I tuck them. I started to head for the counter to pay and say goodbye when Mike hustled me out saying he”d already paid. He wouldn’t brook any argument today either. I did the only think I could and thanked him. We took a route over the hills coming back to avoid the traffic lights and got home much quicker. Mike listened to a little of the Manchester Utd. match before putting his bags in the car and heading off. I think he was pleased they were winning 2 – 1 quite early on. I came back in to work on the 178 emails that had accumulated since the morning. But first I wanted to finish the book.
Once I’d done the review I posted it on Goodreads and the Amazon sites and also sent it to the reviewer who’d asked me to do it as it was dark humour and a genre she didn’t know. Then it was the messages. I really worked hard until finally at 6.00 pm I was almost done. I needed a break though and some tea. I took the easy route and finished off the BFG. I had TV on and was watching a cartoon film about meatballs from the sky when I must have nodded off. It was 8.00 pm and quite dark when I woke up. The film was over and the light was still on the fish tank. I shut everything down and returned to work to the new batch awaiting me.It was 11.15 pm before I finished that and started this. Time for a little read and sleep before tomorrow’s blood tests.
Who yoo lookin’ at?
Monday. Getting up at 5.05 am felt much more normal today. I’d slept for about four and a half hours and don’t remember any loo visits during the night. My bladder was certainly suggesting I go now though. Brimful of relief I came back to my room and turned the computer on ( it’s remarkable what some sexy French words will do). There was a slightly different, but just as con-worthy, an email from Nigeria as usual. The widow has been left 8 million dollars by her diseased sorry, deceased husband and she needs advice on how to get it out of Nigeria. It led me to thinking ( a pastime I partake of occasionally) that Nigeria must be the wealthiest country in the world and also have the biggest concentration of filthy rich widow and orphans who can’t spend a penny of their own money. I reckon the world supply of wicked uncles live there too. I could be wrong though, it could be Burkino Faso depending on how many haven’t written to me yet. My middle finger which serves as my ‘delete’ finger on the computer is now being paid overtime rates.
The albino was looking up at me from next to a clump of weed this morning when the lights went on. He looked almost friendly and didn’t swim off when I spoke to him. Maybe he felt safe flanked as he was by two of the plecs. I dropped some algae pellets in as close to him as I could to show we were friends before going off to take my meds. That done I made myself a coffee, filled my eating out pill box and went back to my room carrying my coffee and a plastic milk bottle for the recycling bag. Naturally the bag was shut when I needed it and it didn’t occur to me to put the bottle down and open it, I just kept trying to do the job one handed without spilling my coffee. In the end I managed it and only had to pick the lid up from where it had rolled away. Before I put my hand on the floor I was careful to scan it for any of the giant spiders we’re told will invade our houses now they’re looking for a mate. That must mean the females they’re seeking are already indoors. Not a nice thought.
I got washed and dressed. I chose a shirt from halfway down the i***ing basket as I worked out the weight of the stuff above will have pressed it for me. I’m not daft see, it’s all scientific research on behalf of single men everywhere. At 8.00 am I left the house to catch the bus. There was the population of all the senior schools in the area concentrated at the bus stop but I’m thankful I didn’t have too long to wait for their bus to appear. Mine wasn’t far behind either. I was in town for 8.25 am and at the hospital for 8.35 am. The nurse called the three people who were in there by name as she called them through. I just got the daft question ” Are you here for blood tests?” Checking her list and asking my name would have answered that. Perhaps she was having a bad morning already but as she approached me in the chair I heard her say “Just a little prick” which was either very personal or extremely rude. I pretended not to hear. I don’t argue with women who carry weapons . She took an extra vial this morning so the diet must be over. As I left I had to pass in front of my surgery and I never noticed the big sign that said Call in to book your Flu Jab. or obviously I would have done and made the overdue appointment with my doctor as well. Maybe the opticians should be on my list.
I was due to walk into town itself and go to the jewelers to get some batteries put in the Fossil watches but I couldn’t face the thought of being in that claustrophobic place with a door that locks behind you. Instead I found myself in the Lidl supermarket looking at pizzas. The ones I wanted weren’t in but MuJo’s favourite chocolate was so that’s what I bought along with 2 tee-shirts until it was time to go for the bus. I wasn’t waiting long for the bus and of course the journey going downhill took no time at all. I called into Pauline’s for some bacon and to cash my winning lottery ticket (£5). I always feel obliged to buy something when I take money out. I went home and got rid of the little cotton wool ball from the cleft of my arm and got to work on emails. I knocked of at 11.45 am to go and make some lunch and decided on some beef sandwiches with coleslaw. It was only when I was eating them that I remembered I’d bought an onion this week and nothing says I Love You to roast beef like raw onion ( and some salt). I’m out with Yvonne tomorrow so I’ll try and bear the onion in mind for Wednesday. I missed the auction part of my antique programme again thanks to those damned annoying Zzz’sss that seemed to be flying around. I think there’s a plague recently. When I did wake up it was back to work.
Late afternoon before I knocked off for a break I received an email from Karl, the loss adjuster who sent his report which appeared to be a series of empty boxes.The important bit said that he’s recommending a payout less than I claimed, which I’d expected because they don’t pay on stolen cash, less the figure which I’m expected to stand myself but without telling me what that was. He’ll be in touch again on 6th October. Again, he didn’t say why he’d be in touch because I thought his part was done now the insurance company have his report. I haven’t heard from them yet. It’s a relief though as I’ve spent a bit to replace some of the things . At teatime I put the washing machine on that I’d forgotten this morning then I treated myself to baked beans on toast which I’d been talking to Mike about on Sunday. I just had a fancy for them. Then the order of the day was Antiques, Antiques (different), Quiz, Quiz, Antiques, before coming back in here for a catch up again. At 9.00 pm I went to empty the machine and fold the contents. I had real problems untangling myself from my duvet cover when I was trying to retrieve a sock that got stuck inside in the furthest corner from me. It was only after I’d done it I found the duvet cover was inside out so I could just have righted it and the sock would have fallen out. I’m waiting for the day when Mike tells me there are as many shirts in the i***ing basket as there are in the wardrobe ( in his fevered imagination of course).
I broke off at 10.20 pm to write this post as I don’t want to be doing it too late. I’m prepared to stop doing mail if it approached midnight tonight.
Happy as Larry on my Skuttlebug
Tuesday.It dawned on me that the day hadn’t bothered to dawn at all when I got up this morning.Too mean to turn the lights on I tried to navigate past the office chair and the obstacles on my floor by the light of the clock which kept telling me it was 4.18 pm. I must remember to adjust it, unless of course I’ve slept more than I thought. Reaching the loo I decided to risk a light in case my aim was off, it’s either that or follow Mike’s trick of sitting down. One of these night I’m going to put the top lid down too so I can see what happens. That should confuse him. Going back to my room I turned the light on so I could find the on switch for the computer and find all the goodies I’ve been sent. Though repeats two more banks I don’t have an account with, want to suspend said accounts to give me chance to update some of my info. Yeah, hope on ! The tax people have increased the figure for my rebate to £501.36 when it was only £497.56 the other day. Perhaps it’s the interest I get from not claiming. My next real rebate if there is one will be April 2015 and if they come out with a similar figure I won’t be disappointed.
Of course there has to be someone who knows the ins and outs of my life well enough to be able to predict when my lucky times are due. I’d be a fool to miss out on this FREE offer and a bigger fool If I don’t listen to when the worst time for me to invest my money is. Personally I think the worst time to invest my money is when a fake fortune teller sends me a message. The luckiest times are when I keep my money firmly in my wallet. One firm wants me to invest in a Canadian or Australian lottery. I wonder why when we have a lottery here and also the big European one. I’d need a lottery jackpot to afford the tickets for these mad schemes. Finally there’s a lady on Facebook who thinks she and I should be compatible for togetherness. Given that I had to translate the message and given that she appears to be 40 years younger than me and as supple as a circus performer, I don’t think my heart could take it. I suppose I could go with a smile on my face though. I concentrated on the rest of the mail and getting it down to manageable proportions before I go out.
Because I know time sometimes runs away with me I brought everything to a halt at 6.00 am, got dressed and went through to the kitchen. Everything looks fine. The albino must have learned his lesson after the staring competition the other day. There he was sitting atop the bridge looking in my direction with that hang-dog look and sad -but still red- eyes. I fed them and backed of and somehow skidded on a patch of water on the floor going down quite heavily on my rump. Just as well I had my wallet in my back pocket, but I do wish I hadn’t got coins in it too. There seemed to be lots of bubbles rising in the fish tank. But surely that’s not possible?………. After taking my meds to restore the semblance of sanity on my face I took my coffee back to the bedroom and picked up where I’d left off with the mail. It was fortunate that there was nothing more to upset me as I was still practising a smile instead of a grimace in th reflection on the screen. I was doing one thing and the reflection was doing the other which was quite disturbing.
At 7.20 am I donned my jacket and gloves to ensure I wasn’t rushing at the last minute and took a chance on one more message. It was one that required a comment and I was going along blithely until I saw the time….7.30 am. I flew to the door, attached the crutches and started to go out when I remembered I had a bag to take. How sensible of me to have placed it near the door in readiness. How stupid of me to have opened the door and hidden it. I was still in time for the bus. I sent Yvonne a text to let her know the journey had started and then leaned on the arm grip of the crutch with my chin and nodded off. It wasn’t to last long as the bus didn’t take the first corner too smoothly and I was almost deposited on the floor. Then Yvonne texted back to say she was leaving home to meet me. The rest of the journey was uneventful and I arrived safely to be met by Yvonne and by Reuben who was pointing madly and smiling as I got off the bus. I liked Yvonne’s bright idea that we go and have a breakfast and a drink instead of having something heavy later. Reuben had toast and jam, Yvonne had a short french stick with sausage and egg and I had something too with a cup of tea.
From the pub cafe we went to try and find some jumpers for Reuben. They came in such styles as ladies leggings, ladies tops and ladies tights, but nothing remotely little boy jumper style. From there Yvonne wanted to take a dress to be repaired and as we were passing a large jewelers shop, she took my watches in to see how much it would cost to have the batteries replaced. £8.99 each was the quote but if the seals needed doing they’d have to go away. A 2 year guarantee on each. I told her we’d think about it. Yvonne left me to have a cigarette while she took her dress in and I noticed a smaller chain who deal in shoe repairs and key cutting now do watch repairs. When Yvonne returned she took the watches in there. She was in so long I thought my luck was in, but when she came out she carried a list. She quoted £16.95 for each of the large watches and £9.95 for the small one. The large ones could have their battery replaced free of charge at any time after this first charge and the smaller one was covered for just 12 months. Oh, and to replace the scratched glass on one watch would be £29.95. I declined. From there we went round to the Market where there is a nice little jeweler, the same question was asked again, No problem, £3.99 each for the two larger and £3 for the small which included the seals. “Just give me ten minutes” he said.
I nipped to the loo and gave Yvonne some money to buy us drinks in the market cafe. Not fantastic but thirst quenching. Reuben certainly needed it judging by the way he attacked Yvonne’s drink. We took him to the pet shop to see the rabbits and assorted small critters as well as the budgies and parakeets. He was fascinated as was I having a real soft spot for budgies. They didn’t have any rats. On going back for the watches I could see he was struggling a bit with the last one, the biggest in getting the strap back on. Everyone seems to have a problem with it but it’s really quite simple and clever if you just follow the arrows imprinted in the leather strap. Eventually it was done. I’m so pleased. Coming down the exitfrom the market which was filled with shops I was suddenly hit in the face by a beautiful butterfly. As it moved away I pointed it out and Yvonne said “That’s mum” and held her arm out. The butterfly came back and landed on her. I could see her hand shaking as she kept repeating “This is mum, this is mum.” It finally flew off before she could take a photograph on her phone. Still a bit shaken we decided to go for a drink and a cake. We had to go upstairs in the cafe and Reuben decided he’d been quiet too long and set up a screech to pierce eardrums. Only the waitress could make him smile, his mum and I were out of favour for some reason. Yvonne decided on a vanilla slice with a cup of tea, I settled on a milk shake and some potato cakes, Reuben had a teasted toecake but already had a drink in his pram. He settled down. From there they walked me to the bus stop and a horrifyingly crowded bus and waved me off. Reuben didn’t look at all happy. I know how he felt actually as Yvonne is standing up to me too well these days and I hadn’t bought anyone anything all day.
At home it was straight into battle once I’d let her know I was home safely. There was so much mail I didn’t leave my seat until 5.15 om. Mind you, I didn’t return to it until 8.00 pm and here I’ve been ever since with mail and the blog to do. It’s a hard life but someone has to do it.
Happy at Play
At the Zoo
Wednesday. 3.42 am saw the start of my day though I wasn’t necessarily fully awake. I was being led by my bladder. By the time I’d come back I was wide awake and there was no point in going back to bed. I just turned the computer on and got to work. It seems that Medium Tara (or whatever size she is) is giving me perhaps the twentieth ‘last chance’ to write and request my lucky numbers or whatever is going to improve my life. One of the greatest improvements would be if she stopped writing to me. Trouble is you don’t know it’s her until you open the post. I’ve tried marking hers as spam in the past. I was actually clear of messages just before 6.00 am and decided as it’s games night and I might not have tea, that I’d have a breakfast today. So, once my very well behaved fish were fed, cough. and I’d taken my meds I slipped some bread in the toaster and waited. And waited. Then I turned the toaster power on and waited again. My coffee was done before the toast so I enjoyed the first sip of the day before the toast popped up. I buttered and applied strawberry jam and enjoyed every mouthful of the two slices.
Back at my desk I caught up on the mil that was still coming through until at 8.30 am I got dressed and at 9.00 am took a walk to Pauline’s for my TV mag. some cigarettes and some baps. Coming home I had the Twix that must have accidentally fallen into my carrier bag and did some more mail, thanking those who regularly re-tweet for me. I also had an offer from Vista Print from whom I’ve not had anything for ages. With Christmas in mind I actually ordered 6 desk calendars for my son’s mother back in Nigeria (Hmmm) and for his brothers and sisters. All different pictures of Reuben looking bright and happy. So, I’ve officially made a start now. If any of you get adverts from them but haven’t tried them, or see an advert for them, it’s worth a look. Having pictures put on tee-shirts, on shopping bags or even making special cards using your pictures can make great gifts. There are lots of other things of course including your business cards which as an author you should always have since it can carry information on your website or blog to keep people updated. Right, advert over, back to work. I try very hard to re-tweet things for other authors who often need all the help they can get so I spent the rest of the morning on that with one break when I started doing pirouettes round the house much to the surprise of the fish. The postman had just delivered a cheque from the insurance company and they’re obviously not questioning anything other than the expected, value of the Albert, cash stolen, some prices etc. At 11.30 am though I knocked off to get ready for lunch and for my programme. That would keep me away until 1.00 pm. Or should have done.
I woke up at 2.12 pm in my chair in the lounge. I think someone put something in my lunch. I must thank them. I’d just got back to the computer when I had a text off Lee to say he was coming tonight. Great, I don’t see enough of him. I ploughed into the mail which had obviously been coming in steadily since I left. Nothing stupid thank heavens. I was still fairly elated at getting a cheque albeit not for very much, but it will allow me to replace things now. I wanted to be as clear as possible for this evening so I worked till 5.00 pm. I’d just gone through to the kitchen to prepare mugs when Lee arrived. Bless him, he’d brought me his spare tablet. Just a 7″ one but with good specs ( since he is a programmer). I said I’d give it back as soon as I got a new one but he told me to keep it and wouldn’t let me buy it from him. So, it’s one item I don’t have to replace and I’m OK with my watches now since the Fossil ones I bought work fine ( so far). I’m even questioning replacing the Albert as I wear it so rarely I could use the cash elsewhere. He even set it up for me. I do love my nephew very much.
It was almost 6.00 pm before Dil and Matt arrived due to horrific traffic. I sorted their drinks out and gave Matt his biscuit supply. They were open before I could blink. We got the table out and I produced the Balderdash to play and some new sheets to use with it. The first game went so swiftly and modesty prevents me from saying I WON. No-one was near me. The second game started a bit slower for me but again I have to allow my natural modesty to come to the fore, yes I WON AGAIN!!!!! Time to change games so I drew up for Nomination Whist. I think I did the first four or five hands without getting my call and Dil was really flying. Suddenly a burst of wins put me in contention and by the end Dil was down to third place and yes, it was me again. It was impossible to dance round the floor with the furniture in the way so I settled for crowing instead. Quite satisfying. It was time for Lee to go so I gave him my thanks and wished him goodbye ( and better luck next time). Then I dealt a hand of Crazy 8’s as there was still half an hour before Dil and Matt go. Things did not go my way at all and though I didn’t lose he game, I didn’t win either. I’m so unlucky ! As Dil got up to go he told me it would be Thursday night next week as he’s running his wife to the airport on the Wednesday. I said it would be kinder to take her in the car but maybe it’s a fitness thing?
After they left it was the usual tidy up, washing up and taking my tablets before I could come back through. The mail has been horrific which is of course down to you lot keep writing things on blogs etc. Some people have no self control. It’s now 11.45 pm and I still have mail to finish. Night All.
Mummy said it’s a rhino sorea**e I think.
Thursday. 3.51 am and for the sake of my tootsies I turned the light on as I stumbled to the loo. I can’t imagine what it would do to the village to be woken by a bloodcurdling scream as I stubbed my toe so I was swearing my slippers for protection. As I stumbled back on the return journey I slipped my dressing gown on because it was definitely cool. I did my banking first this morning to make sure my pension had gone in. I know it’s selfish but I thought I might eat next week too. That done I turned to my mail only to be assaulted almost as I signed in. A message from the NatWest tells me that because I have not responded to their request for information my fictitious account has now been suspended. It’s the first time I’ve been mad to feel guilty for not doing something I shouldn’t have done anyway. The conmen are getting more audacious by the minute. There were some interesting messages too like one from a friend which suggested I have 3 angels looking after me. If only I would send the message on to five more people within the hour. Dire consequences befall me should I not pass it on. Not only do I dislike these chain mail threats but I dislike them even more when religion is brought into them. Though she and I can discuss our religious differences we both know we’re at opposite ends of the polar spectrum. Maybe she actually believes the threats in which case I should forgive her.
At 6.00 am I went through to the kitchen. As I turned on the light I saw a flash of white in the tank. I went over slowly and turned the tank light on. My pal the albino cory was lying under the bridge sides heaving from the effort of flight attempting to portray himself as innocent. Believe me it’s quite hard to look innocent when your eyes are that red. I knew he’d come from the direction of the filter but couldn’t see what he’d done or what was different. Seconds later I glimpsed movement from the corner of my eye. One of the smaller plecs emerging from the mouth of the filter and creeping surreptitiously across the back glass to remain unnoticed. I don’t know if there was a sabotage attempt or a rescue attempt but there was definitely something very ‘fishy‘ about it. I took my meds and made a coffee which I carried back to the computer where I carried on working until 8.00 am when I got dressed. I couldn’t decide whether I was brave enough to take my cheque into town and pay it in. I could look for a tablet case at the same time. The problem is it’s market day and probably very crowded. Ah, but will it be crowded early? I put my shoes on ready to leave at 9.00 am then took them off again. I did a couple more messages then put my shoes back on. As 9.00 am came I made myself go out. A bus came and I was part way on before I realised it’s not my usual one and it’s very crowded. Lucky for me there was one twin seat free but I had to walk past three seats on either side to reach it. Why didn’t I leave my shoes off?
When we arrived in town the bank wasn’t open. I checked and saw it opened it’s doors at 9.30 am. With ten minutes to waste I walked up the high street behind the market and came back down in front of the stalls. There weren’t many stalls and there weren’t too many people. It did look like rain was threatening so maybe that was why. I found 3 picture frames diminishing in size but no tablet cases. That will have to wait until my expedition with Mike. As I got down the street the bank was open and I went in. I was the only customer. While I filled in the paying in book another two customers came in but they were going as I was ready so it really was a quick in and out for me. In 3 working days the cheque will have cleared. Back up town again to the bus station where I can have a smoke while I’m waiting. Had I not been alone ( and if I’d remembered chocolates) I would have gone to Kassidy’s for a drink. I was home for 9.50 am and the only passenger on the downward journey. As I was coming round I saw my postman Darren who called to say he had a parcel. I told him I’d be home in a minute. I’d got my jacket and shoes off before he arrived and handed me a box and a postcard. The postcard had been posted at the same time as the other one I received over a week ago, the difference, the other one was placed in an envelope. It had a beautiful view of Andalucia and I got straight on to let Lottie know it had finally arrived. The box contained a hat brush I ordered for Mike, or rather for his hats.
I worked until lunchtime which today was a crown of chicken with sweet potato mash and petit pois. I was watching my antiques show while I was eating and thinking how much I’d enjoy doing that. I took my plate through and washed up then settled down to watch the auction. It happened again, I just zonked. I’m sure they have some barely audible commands in the background hypnotising people. I woke at 1.40 pm, turned the TV off and went back to work. I got to about 3.00 pm when my stomach made noises like the plumbing was broken and I had to dash. In fact I had 4 dashes before 5.00 pm and missed some of my second antique programme of the day. I wonder if there’s something subversive about antique shows in general? I had some tea which unfortunately was some more of what I’d had for lunch as there was too much at lunch time. Wait for it……THE PROOF, I started to watch my last antique show at 7.00 pm and had to dash again. By the time I came out I was sore, cherry red and vowing never to watch another antique show (until tomorrow).
At 8.00 pm I came back through to the bedroom with one more detour. Here I have been ever since answering messages of one sort or another. One lovely message told me how much a granddaughter had enjoyed my Tall Tales poems and the lovely grandmother offered to put links for it on her blog. So kind. Though I advocate we should be kinder to each other than we are, people constantly surprise me with just how sweet they are. Certain people show their kindness to me day after day giving me hope for the world. I won another Fossil watch tonight but I really must stop now, I already have more watches than I have arms and more than I have cases to put them in too. I must give some thought to birthdays up and coming and to Christmas. Just 90 days to go folks!
Friday. If I ever find myself stuck in a Groundhog Day of today’s I’m jumping under a bus. I managed a little read after getting to bed last night and turned my light off about 12.30 am. I got up at 1.54 am. I read again until 2.45 then when the yawning got too bad I tried again but was awake at 3.42 am. Convinced that was it I started looking at some work but by 4.40 am I was writing anything at all and even I couldn’t understand it. I wiped it all and decided to go to my chair in the lounge and try there. Success, I nodded off until 5.45 am. By my reckoning just three and a half hours at best. I’d left the computer on so it took no time to start and get into my emails. There were a lot.Thanks peeps!!
I worked till 7.00 am then took a stroll to the kitchen knowing I needn’t rush now the fish and I are friends. What fish? Nothing at all in sight when I got there. I couldn’t help but remember the small pool of water on the floor that caused me to slip recently. Have they been digging an escape route to the sink and FREEDOM ? That could be why the albino has been nice to distract me. Almost automatically my hand went out to put food in and one of the plecs broke cover. The sly dogs cats , they’re doing this to scare me. Carefully I scoured the tank with my eyes until I’d spotted them all including the albino who was wearing a patch of weed like a cloak of invisibility. I’m glad it’s Saturday tomorrow as I’m going back to missing food on that day and they can hide all they want.
I did the usual, tabs, coffee, computer but left the renewing of tablets for the week until later. As I sat at the computer and took a big drink of my Americano I found I’d forgotten to sugar it. Since the mess I’d make spitting the mouthful out would be mine to clean, I forced myself to swallow. Ugh! I thought about dropping a cube of dark chocolate in but my mind rejected that as it’s not especially sweet. It was either go back to the kitchen and get sugar or persevere. I persevered. I got dressed sometime before 9.00 am and when I thought the schoolground mafia had gone from Pauline’s I took a walk over for some bread and some more dreams via the lottery. I came back and started work again.
At 10.05 am there was a knock on the door. I thought maybe the postman had something for me and opened it straight away. “You shouldn’t do that” said a voice I don’t know as I cringed back at the sight of a stranger. I couldn”t hide at that stage, it wouldn’t work so I let him explain that he was from the team doing fire alarm tests, emergency warden intercom tests and checking the property was secure with alarms in case I got burgled. Presumably he didn’t know he was here precisely because I had been burgled. The area has now been designated as No Cold Callers so I was issued some warning posters for them which he applied to my door, and a personal alarm for me. He was very pleasant but my nerves were shot. When he finally left I had just sat down when the door went again…..what’s the choice, postman or same man forgetting something? The answer is neither so yet again I was confronted by a stranger. I recognised the uniform and managed to let him in without having to stutter too much. He’d come to service the boiler. It was a pain because given some warning I’d have been prepared for him. As it was I had to drag things out of the airing cupboard to give him access. Everyone tells me I shouldn’t do that but so far they haven’t supplied a personal manservant to do it for me.
I carried on working until halfway through the visit an after he’d been in the loft he told me he needed access to the gas meter. You may remember my quest to have that moved because of the position it holds near the floor in the furthest corner of my inaccessible pit. There’s no way I can’t use that room for storage as was intended. The gas people have said they’ll put me on a smart meter so info goes to them straight away. That’s over 12 months ago now and nothing has happened. I asked them to raise it. They said not to do any lifting but to let their meter readers do it. Yeah, the last one wasn’t willing. As it happens neither was the boiler man so I had to do it again. Then back again once he’d finished of course. I’m sure he was a very nice man but he had the most annoying habit of going dum-de-dum all the time. No recognisable tune and no variation either. I was quite pleased when he left and I was able to grab a cigarette before lunch. Roast beef and red onion baps today.
I watched the auction without falling asleep today and then went back to work afterwards. Two or three messages and then an alarm started on the kitchen window and as I leave the room to check there’s some banging on the window of my room. I just about reached the kitchen and saw the window cleaner had been a bit enthusiastic, which made me understand the noise at the back too now, when there was a knock at the door. One of the team looking for payment. Unless it’s gone up he diddled me too but believe me I just wanted to shut the door. I managed to reach my room when some post came through the door,. In an afternoon, here? Not been known before. I bent down to pick it up and yes, there was a knock on the door. It had to be Darren this time. No, it was the fire alarm safety officer back again to see whether he’s asked me about window alarms. Gordon Bennett, it was his lot that supplied them!!!!!!!!!
Finally peace and quiet and the chance to catch up a bit. I worked until 4.30 pm when the last day of my antique show comes to a head. At 7.oo pm I’d hoped to see the finale of another prog but it wasn’t on so I locked the front door and went for a shower. I’d had another key cut for Mike and given it him last week as he couldn’t find his previous one so he’d be able to get in. When I came out of the bathroom I decided to do a bit of a catch up until Mike arrived but at 8.00 pm I went to the kitchen to prepare his mug. There was a plastic bottle I’d forgotten to move to the recycling so I took it then. I was on my way back when I saw Mike about to knock so I opened the door. “Just as well you were there then” he said. “Where’s your key” I asked. “I didn’t see the point in bringing it if you’re in” was the response. It occurred to me that I could be in, but lying there deceased which wouldn’t help him get in if his bloody key is in Rugby.
I made his coffee and we filled each other in on our eventful week then I stayed and kept him company until 10.00 am when cowardice brought me back to the post. It’s horrific and I had to stop at 11.30 pm to give me chance to get to the blog. It’s now half past midnight and any more will have to wait for tomorrow.
Mike’s Dragons
Mike’s Coffin Shelves
Saturday. I managed to get to bed just after 12.30 am this morning and was determined to have a short read so at 1.15 am I made myself put the book down and step away. I doubt I was long getting to sleep.
I woke at dead on 5.00 am in full panic mode as I’d no idea just how many messages I’d left unanswered last night. I even forced myself to turn the computer on before I hopped cross legged down the passage towards the loo. When I got back we were ready to go…….ish. I’m afraid not all the sandwiches had made it to the picnic as they say. By the way, who is the THEY that keeps saying things like this? Rude remarks about my mental aptitude will earn a swift clip round the ear.
I worked flat out ( No, that doesn’t mean lying down again) until I heard Mike’s alarm go off which was at 6.55 am. With a sigh so deep it was at the bottom of a well I went to the kitchen to start the day proper. As I turned on the kitchen light I glanced at the tank. Two plecs on the glass at the front and the albino sitting atop the bridge in such a fashion that if he’d been any more human he’d be swinging his legs. If I had my way he’s certainly be swinging somehow. As I placed food through the slot is head seemed to follow my every move but he didn’t go anywhere. It’s unnerving I tell you, he’s not natural.
I put the stuff in Mike’s cup and flicked the switch on the kettle. While I waited for it to boil ( I didn’t watch it just in case)I took my drugs and made my own drink. I dropped Mike’s coffee off on his bedside cabinet , gave him a shout and carried on through to my room to see to getting dressed. Mike’s alarm went off for the second time and amazingly he got up under his own steam and went through to the lounge. I wished him Good Morning but got no response so I knew he wasn’t awake yet. But, a couple of minutes later I heard him light a cigarette and I knew we were OK. I only had time for a few more messages as I needed to transfer things from one jacket to another, make sure I restocked my food tablets and get the shopping list I so often leave behind. I looked round and my jaw dropped, Mike was standing there fully dressed, eyes open and with his coat and hat on, tapping his foot in a ‘Why are we waiting’ kind of way. I got my skates on ( not literally) and made ready to go. We reached the supermarket the earliest we have done in ages.
We went straight for flowers this week as I didn’t need potatoes. Then it was round the children’s clothing sale but Reuben was out of luck unless he changes sex and then to look at the gents clothing before finally heading towards food. Sticking anything easy to do in my basket it was like watching the 1000 m final at the Olympics. We were at the checkout in no time at all. Once through we decided on a coffee which Mike went to get while I sorted out the cigarette supply. We loaded the car, returned the trolley with which I had a fight as it didn’t want to return the £ coin. No way was I returning to the car without it as it was Mikes and he’d think I’d pocketed it. I’d been wondering about a case for the tablet Lee had given me and we decided on a detour to a shop called B & M which naturally we know as BUM Bargains. There had been a case in the Supermarket at £14.99 which Mike decided perhaps I shouldn’t get after he picked me up from the floor. In BUM we found one at £2.99 which was perfect and was a good make which was handy. I bought it.
From there we headed for Flint where we were able to have a coffee and some banter with Ceri in Temptations. I can’t say it often enough what a delightful, bubbly girl (woman) she is. A quick trip to the frozen food shop and then home to unpack. He passed me the bag with the frozen stuff naturally and left me to put it away. Such a cruel man he is. When everything was away I started to try and play catch up with the mail but as fast as I did it, more came in. By the time 1.00 pm came and it was time to go out for lunch, I had almost as many as I started with. Still. it didn’t stop me going. It was quite busy when we got there but Angie seemed glad to see us and had a quick word as well as giving us a kiss each for the sweets we’d brought. I’d also picked her up a little reserved table sign because she liked the one we’d brought in as a joke before. Tariq was in the kitchen but came through for a hug when he saw us (CCTV). Mike had brought a little electrical item for him to work on for him so I left them having a word and went for a pre-lunch smoke. I’d already ordered my gammon, baked potato and side salad. We managed a few laughs while we were there and then finally headed for home again and the thrill of the computer. I set myself a time limit no matter how much work there was as Mike should have some company. Since they let his cell mates go I thought I’d better be there for him. So at 5.30 pm I went through and stayed there until 8.00 pm. Back in here till 9.00 pm then back out to make some supper for us both. At 9.30 pm I had to come through knowing I wouldn’t be leaving again tonight.
One of the first treats that caught my eye when I came back through was an email from what seemed a reasonable address but with No Subject in the subject line. I should have known better. Hi, I’M Christina M Hammock. I am a UNITED STATE Military / Nasa .From united state of America. Am supportive and caring, looking forward to get a nice friend. I will introduce myself better and send you my picture as soon as i receive your mail. Christina Can anyone tell me what a United State Military/Nasa is? Can you just imagine the unshaven, overweight, ex-truck driver ( or her husband) sitting there sending out this message all over the world trying to reel someone in to a romance followed by a request for her fare to be paid to this country, Oops had to spend the money as my son is in intensive care after a fight with his transvestite lover who needs help with lawyers fees and I don’t have a dress to wear for the hearing…….. It just occurred to me that maybe I could try this to and at least get the spelling right.
Mike is watching some comedy show on the box and it’s getting late so I’m going for another look at the mail. I wish you all a Wonderful New Week.
Thoughtful Leonardo.
Playful Picasso
barsetshirediaries 