I was out for the count overnight after a busy no-nap day yesterday. But if I was to swim at all, it had to be early because of getting over to Ali’s for brekky. This was to allow Pen to depart at a sensible time in order to arrive back in Devon during the afternoon.
But it all went pear shaped. The swim was fine, but on the way to Didcot, I heard the A34 south was closed from CHilton. It turned out that two lorries had a disagreement. I knew the school buses would be affected, however the grandchildren refused a lift from their parents, preferring to party on the bus for two and a half hours. Via a chunk of the West Country. Below is today’s route to school.
Ali had booked brekky at Pierreponts for 10.00. Unfortunately, the amount of traffic on local roads had swelled because of the A44 closure, and was causing huge delays and traffic jams, especially at Streatley traffic lights. So my arrival at Pierreponts was doubtful. But H and I made it. I was never going to eat brekky at 10.00 because I was meeting friends for lunch at 12.00. But the coffee was excellent.
We walked H along the Thames path at Goring. Her loyalties were tested, but ultimately remained with me.
I had a lovely lunch with Jane and Sue at the Butt Inn. They no longer derive much pleasure from teaching at Primary Level. The school closures during Covid have ripped through the heart of pupil courtesies and understanding of routines.
I made it home feeling a great doze descending. And took advantage of it.
I received a clever indoor little trough of flat packed spring flowers from Pen – very clever and very pretty. It also went in a mystery tour in order to reach me. Thank you.
I stayed awake for long enough this evening. But then had to lever myself out of the chair around midnight to return myself to bed where my sleep continued.
( Brenda has had her knee operation – challenging for the surgeon apparently. I hope her mobility improves.
My heart goes out to the POW and all that she and her family have been facing. Casually dressed and unmade up – she was one of us yesterday. I hope she gets the space she needs. I’ve got the same metaphorical T – shirt)
Thought for the Day
It has been a memorable and moving 3 days and a door has finally been closed on one life, well lived. But new horizons beckon for us. Life goes on … only Tony lives on within us – his family.
Leave a Reply