NO PROBLEM!

Our second official day off in the year was Monday.  Martin Luther King Day is usually welcomed as the break everyone seems to need in January.  We return to normality after New Year's Day, work for a couple of weeks, and get a holiday.  January, despite having the same number of days as seven months of the year, seems to last longer than any other.  I had not expectations, but Samantha said we should have a traditional January holiday, and go to the shops!  I thought it might be fun to do so.  

I was ready to go quite early, having finished my chores.  My husband had shot out of bed and shouted, "Have you seen the time?"  He quickly came to, and said, "It's a holiday, isn't it!"  Although rhetorical, I mumbled that it was.  However, I was wide awake and raring to go!

The truck roared into my carport, and the occupants entered my house.  We left shortly thereafter, and headed south.  I really only had one shop on my list, but had to loop around, by a large complex that has some outlet stores worth frequenting.  The furniture store on the frontage road was our first stop.  I have been looking for a new suite for the last twenty years.  I suppose my biggest stumbling block is my lethargy.  I have made excuses, such as the dogs, kids, and lack of time to go looking.  The former two were reasonable excuses, but the latter holds no substance!  I entered the store, with anticipation.

Choices were few.  I told my husband later, "They are too deep.  They think too much!"  He saw the humour, but I continued that everything is far more bulky than our temporary set.  (It was bought for convenience, when our condo was used as a temporary business location before I moved Stateside, and never meant to be permanent.)  I saw a couple of options, and took measurements.  However, I was not wowed by anything, and was a little disappointed, as I had made the effort.  

We left the store, and got into the truck, whose engine turned, coughed and clicked.  Again, it turned, coughed and clicked.  "I think you have a flat battery", I helpfully commented.  Samantha tried again.  It clicked.  "Yep, flat battery!" I reiterated.  I was amazed at how calm I was.  I messaged Dana, and she her husband.  Then she sent Grant a picture of the message displayed on the screen.  My husband asked where we were, and in whose vehicle.  Grant said that he was out and about and could be there in forty five minutes.  

"Can you change it out yourself?" I asked my daughter, who responded that it was possible but she would need a specific tool.  It was fairly amusing that firstly, I would ask the question, because I would not know what to do, and secondly because she answered in the affirmative, or possibly affirmative.  What a different world!  The fabulous Internet told us that Walmart was two miles away, so it was too far to walk, especially as it was a little chilly, windy and we had a three year old!  The walk there would have been okay, but then we would have had to come back, with a heavy object.  

A large truck pulled up in the car park.  I jumped out and approached the driver.  "I am sorry, but we have a flat battery, a child, and no jumper cables.  Can you help?"  He looked at me, very apologetically and explained that he did not have cables either.  What were the odds, here in Texas, Do it yourself country, and neither of the truck drivers had jumper cables!  Unheard of!  Perhaps we could walk to Walmart, pick up jumper cables, and then pick up another truck driver!  However, Grant was now fifteen minutes away.  We waited.

Walmart was not two miles away.  It was less than half a mile away. Probably still too far to attempt to carry a battery.  Thankfully, one truck driver had jumper cables.  However he did not have the tool to take out the dead battery, and we all went into the store.  I walked around with my grandson for a considerable length of time, as the super duo managed to disconnect the offending part and bring it into the shop.  I realised why I was perhaps more calm than I would have imagined.  There are few supermarkets at home that have 'auto parts' departments.  How many petrol stations have a mechanic on site.  Specific shops are for specific items.  Most Walmart stores have an 'auto-care' centre.  Maybe it is because we live in a "Do it yourself" State.  Much as this is the most efficient and amazing place in the Western Hemisphere, they did not have the correct battery!

I sat with my grandson in the truck, as it could not be locked!  How wonderful is new fangled technology.  You can start your vehicle from a mile away, get it heated, even have it drive to you, or better still, have a person free driver car come and collect you!  However, your battery dies and you can't protect your possessions!  I think that something is lost in the mix!  I sat in the truck with my grandson, who was kept quiet by watching a cartoon on my daughter's phone.  "My daddy's calling!" he said, as the show stopped, and something appeared on the screen.  Sure enough, it was his father on the phone!  I answered and explained that his wife and her surrogate brother had gone to pick up a battery.  Yes, we were fine.  Yes, the little one was fine.  Yes, they were able to remove the battery, but our current location failed to deliver a replacement!  Yes, we would let him know when we were on the road again.  No, we did not need him to come and save us!  

Thankfully, the shop nearby had the correct part, and before long we bid farewell to our knight in shining armour and were on our way.  Samantha called Edward, to let him know we were okay and I called Dana.  We started our shopping.

By the time we were on our way, I had pretty much lost the momentum.  We went to a few shops and wandered around.  They were all quite busy, but we did not find much to wow us.  It had been an eventful day, and we survived what in the past would have been quite debilitating.  

The rest of the week went by with weather warnings every day.  We were going to have a freeze at the weekend and the prognosticators were causing fear among many.  "Are you prepared?" people were asking.  Admittedly, the 2021 storm was bad, and we were without electricity for thirty six hours (with others suffering far worse,) and many were without water.  This current prediction showed us probably being housebound on Sunday, and perhaps some of Monday, but the panic around us was rising.  Our Governor had promised that our grid was operating well, and the only outages would be from ice falling on power lines.  2021 would not be repeated!  However, we all have long memories.  Even so, I was not particularly bothered.  If I had to stay in on Sunday, I would deal with it. If I couldn't get to work on Monday I would not see it as a disaster. (although my husband did not have quite the same mindset!)  The shelves were being stripped as early as Wednesday, with bread disappearing as soon as it was reloaded.  Bread?  How about non-perishables?  I wondered at the mindset of some!  

"Are you prepared?" asked our Gen-z.  "For what?" I responded, perhaps a little too quick and tersely.  "For the storm.  I am thinking I may go and get a generator and a gas heater, and a flashlight, and...."  I looked at him with perhaps too much disdain!  "And you have not got these things?  Perhaps you should have thought about buying them in the summer, when there was not a panic", I responded.  He saw the wisdom but was still a little scared.  "Do you have enough toilet paper?" he then asked.  "For the weekend, yes, thank you.  Do you?"  He smiled and again saw that we were talking a couple of days, not a week, not a month, or longer.  I wanted to be sympathetic but did not want to play into the drama.  

My daughter was quite sure that Saturday morning  would be a breeze, going shopping.  After all, everyone had been out and were battening down the hatches for the duration!  I love Austin, and all its quirkiness, but sometimes I still stand with my jaw on the floor!  There was little traffic on the road on Friday evening, and yet the freeze was not due until Saturday night.  

Saturday morning was chilly.  The windchill made it feel cooler, and the drizzle did not help, but wrapped up in coats, hats, gloves and boots, we headed out.  The roads were, indeed, empty.  Walmart reminded me of Sainsbury's (English supermarket) on a Christmas Eve, when I would shop at 6am and everyone was jolly and friendly.  There were no queues, and the shelves were stocked.  Deliveries had been operating normally (of course) and the only aisle that was empty was the one that usually contains the bottled water.  (Of course!)  I picked up two bottles of distilled water, which I use for my iron and steamer, and a man walking in the opposite direction nodded at me.  "I wanted to tell him that I had run out and I was only buying two so I had one in stock.  It is my usual practice.  I thought I had a spare but didn't" I blurted to my daughter.  "Perhaps he was just nodding 'hi'", she said.  Perhaps so!  I bought what I needed and we headed out to the warehouses.  Again, not particularly busy, and everyone very friendly.  The shelves were stocked, and there was plenty of bread!  The lorries had not been held up by the storm, which had not yet hit!  

I am not saying we were not sensible!  "How about going out for lunch, instead of dinner?" I asked my husband.  He was going to suggest the same thing.  We were one of two couples that were at the Chinese restaurant not far from our home.  I had been craving a 'hot and sour' soup for a while.  I am not sure why I get cravings as I am way past child bearing age, and I cannot think what I am lacking that would be in a 'hot and sour' soup, but my craving was quite real!  Thankfully, the restaurant was open and my craving satisfied.  We had a truly delicious lunch, and arrived home in time to 'batten down the hatches'!  

Although I had promised a light supper, I was not hungry, and found some pizza in the freezer for my husband.  I was quite inactive during the afternoon, so did not build up an appetite.  I received a call from my daughter to ask if I was at home.  She thought we were going to have an early dinner and was concerned we were still out as the temperatures hit freezing.  The next message I received was also from my daughter  "Do you have snow?"  I looked out of the window.  Everywhere was white!  Yes we had snow!

Sunday morning was cold.  Very cold.  Thankfully our home was warm.  I made breakfast and we sat looking out at the beautiful, wintery scenery, watching to see if any cars were going down the hill outside of our complex.  A few drove by.  The sun came out for a while, and some of the snow melted.  Then the sun went behind some heavy clouds.  

What I will do for the rest of the day is still a mystery.  There are a few options I know I will not be taking.  I will not sit by the pool.  I probably wont go for a walk.  I will not bake, (despite the grid being strong, I do not need to burden it,) and I will not be going out in my car!  

Thank you for those who checked up on us.  I think the foreign news portrayed Texas as a suburb rather than the largest of the lower forty eight, so pictures told an overall gruesome story!  I am sure i shall no doubt relay the adventures of another week in .......... another story!

IT'S IN THE BAG!

I was not disappointed with what I had won, but I was hoping for a gift card to a restaurant that couldhave been used for  when the kids were here.  The radio station that has the equivalent of an advent calendar contest had many items up for grabs.  The first couple of days had a few glitches on the website, (which is par for the course,) and there was a day when the entries were not counted, (which is par for the course,) but the rest of the time, it was business as usual.  Each day I entered, no matter the prize, as the entries rolled over.  There were some things that I would have given away, and some I would have liked, but when I got the email to say I had won a bag, I became a little ungrateful!  Admittedly, I have said in the past that I could win a bottle of mayonnaise, and be happy, (and indeed I did win some mayonnaise on a 'spin the wheel' once, and was, indeed, happy,) as it is the thrill of the chase rather than the prize, but occasionally, it is the prize!  However, I digress.  I won the prize and had to go to the radio station in order to retrieve it.

The weekend had been busy.  I had mislaid a pair of boots, so tidied out my wardrobe on Saturday afternoon, as the weather was not conducive to sitting out.  I found my boots!  They were in a box marked 'boots'.  It was a good use of my time, if not exciting.  Sunday saw me in the kitchen. My neighbour had been admitted to hospital during the week and was released early in the morning, so I made some Shepherd Pies for her freezer.  I also made some sausage rolls for my next door neighbour as she had jaw surgery during the summer and was unable to eat solid food for months, so I promised when the time came, I would give her some of her favourite English/British fayre.  Her parents are Scottish, and her mother insists on keeping some traditions alive!  Ex-pats reunite!

A cold front blew in and whilst it was not freezing, I was glad to have put my winter clothes into some sort of order. So many times I hear a native Texan comment, "I don't actually own a coat."  Layers are a good idea, usually; here layers are the only option it would appear!  In I stroll, with my many outer layers imported from my homeland, and I could walk down any catwalk and receive agreeable comments.  

I emailed the radio station, as they had asked that I do so, in order that the prize could be at the front desk when I arrived.  I thought it a little odd that it would not be there as most are, but I would find out why it would not be readily available when I arrived.  My email got kicked back, so I called the number provided.  I was put through to a voicemail, and left a message.  After not having received any communication, I rang again, spoke to a person who put me through to someone else.  Again, voicemail.  I left another message.  I did not receive a reply.  Perhaps my bag would not be retrievable.

A spam call appeared on the screen of the office phone.  I answered, as usual, in my joyful voice, expecting someone asking me about my healthcare coverage, car insurance, home improvements, my age, plans to sell my house, the list goes on!  Instead, the voice asked to speak to me.  I tentatively said it was me speaking, and he said that he was from the radio station.  I had left my personal number, but presumably the phone from where I called came up on their phone!  He apologised for the confusion, and said that the bag would be at the front desk, with their receptionist, Rosa.  "Do you know where we are?" he asked.  I told him that I was very familiar with their location, and also knew Rosa!  I said I would be there either today or tomorrow.  They, apparently, close for lunch, but arrangements could be made to collect if that is the only time I could make it.  

Despite the fact that I did not have too much time to spare, I decided to take the time to go an collect.  I knew the location of the radio station but forgot how I started the journey.  My husband was trying to help with a map, which I didn't need, and was asking me for the address, which I didn't know.  I just knew where it was!  Or did I?  I drove along the road, across the lights, down to the next intersection, and turned around.  Not this way!  I remembered the route!  I drove down the road, through two sets of lights, over the railroad crossing and up, over the flyover, and off at the next exit to turn around.  I remembered, too late, that the left lane forces you over the flyover.  How many times had I made that trip?  I finally got on the right road, took the correct exit, and managed not to miss the hidden entrance. I had known how to reroute myself due to my early days of getting totally lost!  I did not panic, and I phoned no-one!  I made it!

I walked up to the window.  A broad grin came across the face of Rosa and she beckoned me in with waving arms.  The security guard opened the door, and put his arm around my shoulder, with a "Good to see you, again!  How have you been?" greeting.  Rosa came from around her desk and gave me a huge hug.  It was as if I had come home.  We exchanged salutations and seasons greetings.  "How is Grant.  How is the baby?" she asked, among other things.  I showed her pictures of the little one, and told her that everyone said "Hi".  Faces appeared on the landing above.  Who was this person, who had just walked in, who appears to be known by all?  A young guy stood at the desk, asking with his eyes.  "I am so pleased it was you who won this!" said Rosa.  It appears that if I had not collected it within the given time, there would be a fight as to whom was going to have it!  "We have missed coming here", I said, further causing confusion to the young man, and another young woman, who had joined us on the lower floor.  "I look out every day to see if anything is going on!" I comment.  The young man told me what they had planned for the next few months.  "We need to do something here!" said Rosa. "Yes", I reiterated, "You need to do something HERE!"  After a lot more hugs and promises of seeing each other soon, I left.  The Englishwoman Abroad had made another splash!  I felt very humbled as well as excited that I was so well accepted.  I actually feel (a little) famous!  

The bag was beautiful.  When I won, as mentioned, I was not particularly excited.  How many bags does one woman need?  Admittedly, as I have aged, I have done the 'woman' thing and have a bag for each season.  That is it.  However, this bag is considered designer (everything is designer, as everything is designed) created by a local designer.  The bags have become quite well known nationwide, and are quite coveted, especially locally.  Before I got back to the office, I had become quite attached to my bag.  A gift card for a restaurant would have been used, and the memory would have lived on, but the bag I can use over and over, if I use it.  At the moment, I am inclined to put it into a glass box or set it in my china cabinet!  (Well maybe not, but it is pretty!)  My appreciation grew because of the circumstances in which I won and received!  

The general local population appear to be in a relatively good mood.  People have been polite and  friendly.  It is how I remember my early days in Austin, as the Yuletide season departed, and reality came home to roost, most people stayed chirpy.  Perhaps it was the sunshine, perhaps it was because of the 'laid back' Southern way.  My home nation saw new year as usually cold, damp with short days, and although there was anticipation of better things, we were apprehensive.  Perhaps that was just me or my perception.  However, SAD is a syndrome!  The sun helps!  Not everyone was happy, but most were.

It was cold this morning.  Very cold.  Below freezing.  I had brought in my tomatoes (yes, I still have growing tomatoes in the middle of winter, outside, probably because they are from my seeds, and a bit eccentric) as I did not want to lose the crop, but left Edgar, the Meringa, to fend for himself.  He is a little big to come inside, although should the temperature drop considerably for too long, we would have to find a home from him.  

Monday is a national holiday.  I have not decided how I am going to spend my time, just yet.  I should really make the most of it, and do something different, really different, but no planning has been done, and no recommendations put forward!  Perhaps this Englishwoman Abroad should start a new tradition for her days off, and make .......... another story! 

A CHRISTMAS TO REMEMBER!

Our beautiful Christmas decorations were taken down, with the first group of orange plastic bags, surrounding the small bulb, were removed after twelfth night!  We have become quite defensive, and protective when others make fun of our orange plastic bags.  The '70's' (probably short lived) festive embellishments light up our entrance, and each block have their share of what are known as luminaires.  Christmas is officially over, and the new year cometh!

Another sabbatical was not planned, but was probably going to be inevitable, due to my very busy, and amazingly wonderful winter wonderland!  It started on the Friday before Christmas when my daughter-in-law and two older grandsons arrived from England, flying the flag across the Atlantic to arrive to a tumultuous welcome as they exited the baggage hall.  My daughter, youngest grandson and I stood waiting, with a banner, "Let the commotion begin - Cousin time!" displayed for all to see.  I did think that everyone was laughing at the sign, but then realised, (as I did not give it thought,) that I was wearing my annual 'elf-day' dress.    Grant had picked me up in the morning, and commented, delightfully, that it must be Christmas, due to my attire, and I made a comment about how I could hear my mother's voice, calling me from the grave, "Tracie, cover your knees, you don't have the legs for that dress; you are also far too old to dress like that!"  There was a time when I would have reacted, probably negatively, but now I can laugh, and at my age, wear what I want!  However, I digress.  The trio exited the luggage hall and hugs were abound!

I drove with Steph back to our favourite Friday haunt, with the boys going in the truck.  It was their choice to frequent our beloved restaurant, and although exhausted, they were beaming with joy.  We arrived home, unpacked the bus that Steph had rented, and enjoyed a little bit of 'catch up' before we all went to bed.

An early morning started with a walk through the woods to the adjoining neighbourhood.  It was not hot, but for the British contingency, it was warm.  Despite the weather warnings earlier in the month, a new round of prognostications came forth, announcing record high temperatures.  Dressed in shorts and t-shirts, we headed for Costco, to satisfy my middle grandson's want, to taste all the samples.  We lunched at Sonic, and spent the afternoon by the pool.  It was a little too cool for me, but the boys enjoyed themselves almost getting wet!  Finally Ollie jumped in and it was 'game on'!

Breakfast on Sunday had to be at IHOP.  Pancakes, hot chocolate, and lots of America!  The day was planned out, including a period by the pool, then to see the Christmas lights in Round Rock, and then to the pizza buffet.  It seemed that the kids would go into 'overload', having never been to Texas during the yuletide season.  'Everything is bigger in Texas' was certainly going to be realised during their two week stay.  I ran into the pool in the afternoon, showing them that Grandma could still beat them to the punch, although I did not stay in for as long as them.  It was too cold for the youngest one to partake, so he stayed inside watching Moana for the umpteenth time, with Poppa now able to sing each song!  Our evening trip was the perfect end to the weekend, with the older boys being introduced to apple pie pizza, Bavarian cream pizza, and of course huge quantities of cinnamon rolls.  Normal eating could resume when they went home!  

I did not have the option to join in the festivities on Monday, or Tuesday, as work leading up to the 'big' day was relentless.  Monday evening we walked around the Domain village, where the lights were something to wow over, and ice cream abundant!  To sit outside at the latter end of December, and enjoy the warmth eating an iced treat was perfect.  Decorated trucks and other vehicles drove past as we sat and watched.  This was Christmas, Austin style!  

Despite having early nights, and waking early in the morning, by Tuesday, they had acclimatised.  However, we had to be at the radio station at seven.  We had been invited to join the festivities, the Christmas Eve Eve show!  Unfortunately there were not as many musical artists as the boys had hoped, but breakfast was a mixture of Tex-Mex tacos and wraps, with a side of chocolate covered pretzels, brownies and cup cakes.  Fried pickles and other vegetables were delicious.  I stayed until the end, and met some prominent people who were guests on the show.  It was quite an amazing morning.  I did go back to work, and then we had the ultimate fun evening.

Perhaps 'ultimate' is my perception, but laugh we did.  It had been a long day, with a three day holiday approaching, followed by the weekend.  Our office was officially closed but I knew my husband would be watching for emails.  We decided to go to the diner, Jim's.  Jim's is renowned for lots of food, but with a laid back service, and interesting staff.  Part of the establishment was our waitress.  A very well known English sketch, which became known as 'two soups' depicted our entire evening.  Taking our drinks order, which was water for everyone, plus one Pepsi, and one hot water with lemon would not normally be challenging.  Our waitress wrote all in longhand, and disappeared.  She arrived back with cold water for all, and was aware that something was not right.  Upon reminder, she left again, returning with the extras.  "Do you need a couple of minutes?" she asked.  We responded that we were all ready, (and had been for some time,) but she announced that she needed just a few minutes to use the restroom.  The boys looked shocked.  They could not hide their giggles as she disappeared out of sight.  "Who announces that?" was the comment from one.  When she returned, it was hard for the boys to give their order without tittering!  Our order showed up, almost complete!  The laughter continued, and I was delighted that they were all experiencing a good time!  When we returned home, I showed Steph the 'two soups' sketch and she shrieked with laughter and said, "That's our waitress".

Christmas Eve finally arrived, and the turkey was put in its bath.  My middle grandson was rather bemused, and looked for confirmation from his mother, when I asked him to pour a bottle of cola into the bowl, together with one of apple juice.  Sprinkled with cranberries, it was placed in the fridge to marinade.  He watched for me to throw away the concoction as it seemed a little bizarre!   We walked, and then went to Zilker park where we paddled in the water, and then went to the airport to collect my son.  

Driving to the airport, we took an exit to get coffee but the establishment advertised was not visible, so got on the main road again.  Just before entering the highway, across our path flew the flag with a very special passenger on board.  We parked, made our way to the terminal, and waited.  Being that Richard was traveling alone, we assumed he would be out fairly quickly.  However, many came out of the hall and we waited, patiently, to the side as we had been instructed by the security elf manning the desk.  Suddenly, a scream went up, Ollie flew at his dad, we all ran to the door area, and surrounded the precious cargo that had just arrived.  We were about to have the first full family Texas Christmas.  

Santa, apparently, made it down my chimney, ate mince pies, cookies, and allowed the reindeer (who did not appear to get down the chute) to nibble on the apples.  Not quite sure whether the boys still believed, (although it was considered very doubtful the older one still did,) the tradition remained, and presents were left on the hearth.  With potatoes partially cooked, and the turkey in the oven, we walked out into the beautifully warm morning and headed up through the woods.  

Dinner was wonderful, and we just lounged around, swapping presents, and watching the boys have fun.  I was walked around my house, so as not to see the disposal of all plates, cups and table clothes into the bin, as I am averse to throwing anything that can be reused, despite being disposable!  It was my idea to use disposable, but it is still a stretch to believe I will not at least try to recyle!

By the end of the day, we were all exhausted, having had a great day.  It was one I had yearned for.  My husband never managed to get across the pond to join the family in the past, and I had wondered if the Brits would ever want to make the trip here for the yuletide season.  It happened and it was everything I had hoped for.  A good, old fashioned, traditional (our traditional) family day.  Lots of eating, and lounging.  

We shopped on Boxing Day.  It is not called Boxing Day here, but it was fun.  We went to our usual Friday night haunt for dinner, and managed to spend some time by the pool.  Bargains were had at every stop, and everything appeared to be having a good time.  The weather was so perfect, despite being unseasonably high.  It was what my daughter-in-law had hoped for, and I was so pleased she got to enjoy a couple of hours, almost every day, in the sun.  

I have never been horse riding.  I wasn't going to get on a horse, but I was convinced this would be fun!  My daughter's friend has a friend with stables.  Richard took my youngest grandson, as neither wanted to ride, and the rest of us took off.  My horse held back for a bit, which meant I had to catch up.  I trotted!  Being a novice, I was quite amazed at how easy I found this!  Again, my mother's voice called to me.  "What are you doing, at your age.  What if you fall?  Why would you want to do such a thing?"  I have realised, over the years, if I did anything that she would not do, did not want to do, or was afraid to do, she would call me out if I tried!  I laughed.  Yes, at my age, I am riding a horse for the first time!

We lunched at a Mexican restaurant, where they had a playground for the kids.  Two of Cori's kids came with us, and my boys blended in as they all played together.  The sun shone, and we sat and bathed!  Another wonderful day. 

One of my son's enduring memories of Texas is the barbecue!  "Can we go to Coopers?" he had asked.  Although he remembered the meat, he also remembered the blackberry cobbler.  Food, glorious food!  We ate, and ate.  It was delicious.  Sitting on long benches, and eating from a piece of paper, with endless pickles and bread, the boys found this to be a unique experience.  After spending another afternoon at the pool, we got ready to go and look at the 37th Street lights.  Set up many years ago, as the weirdest Christmas lights, the original occupants had all moved out, and the tradition was going to die two years ago.  However, the new residents decided to keep up with the tradition. Space ships, unicorns, and a whole load of weirdness was still going on!  Another Austin special! We were still having fun!

Monday was cold.  Cold!  I wore a coat, hats and boots.  Rick and Steph went to the outlet mall, so Samantha and I took the boys to a soft play facility, where they ran around for three hours, not taking a breath.  "Why are you going down that slide?" said my mother's voice.  "At your age?"  My grandsons want me to!  I didn't go down the one that I was unsure about, the one that twisted and turned abruptly.  I do have some limits!  We then went to Round Rock Donuts, and on to the sports shop.  We came home, had hot chocolate and played games.  The kids arrived home, with Steph dumbfounded at how much Richard could shop!  "We are done now....oh lets just look in here...we are done now...oh look..."! she mimicked.  "Ross is calling for you" she joked.  "They said you didn't go to this location!"  At least they had a good day.

The weather rebounded, and we revisited Zilker park.  The water is heated by natural springs, and stays at a temperature of 69 degrees all year round.  We went into the lake, watched the fish come up and nibble at our legs.  A young girl was swinging from a rope into the lake a bit further down the path, and Ollie started to do the same.  They were the same age, and the girl's father was helping with the rope.  It was great to see the kids enjoying themselves.  

New Year's Eve was going to be spectacular.  At least it would have been, but we were all exhausted and could not stay up late enough to see the new year arrive.  It mattered not, as we had all enjoyed the day, and the clock turning from one day to the next suddenly seemed unimportant.  We were more interested in making the last full day in Austin a memorable one, than staying up late to see a few fireworks.  It may sound a bit of an anticlimax, but we did not see it that way.  New year's has always been a bit of an anticlimax for me.  Bah humbug maybe, but I have not felt I have missed out!  

The boys played basketball, went go karting, and just chilled.  I was starting to feel the loss of my family during the afternoon, dreading their leaving.  My house had been buzzing, and just like the 'old days' when my kids were young.  It had been full, loud, messy and generally disorganised, but I loved every moment.  I could clear up and clean when they had gone, something which I was not looking forward to!  

Our last day together we spent by the pool, packing and finally saying cheerio to Dana and Grant, and going out for one last meal.   Going to the airport, I was quiet, but content.  "Those people were on our plane on the way out" said Steph.  Two doctors with their children returning to England.  They were being seen off by their family.  "Saying bye to the grandkids?" I asked the other grandma.  We consoled each other.  We walked to the security area, We waved farewell.  The trip back home was in silence.  I was quite chocked up.  

Everyone had a great time.  A Christmas holiday to remember.  Going home to reality was just that.  The boys went back to school, I went back to work.  My youngest grandson could not quite understand why his cousins were not at my house, ready to play.  Thank goodness for technology and being able to connect so easily.  I received calls from my grandsons, and my son, all of whom were quite animated about their trip.  Steph messaged me saying that she was at her mum's and was telling her all about Christmas dinner, and the weather!  It was all perfect.

Hopefully, another sabbatical will not take place anytime soon.  It was for a good cause.  Seasonable weather has returned, as has the busy week.  Happy new year to one and all, and hopefully ..... another story!

A WINTER'S TALE

I have been accused of not conforming to 'The American Way.  I refuse to give up my language.  I use words like 'petrol', 'pavement', 'bonnet' and 'boot'.  However, I am very aware that my adoptive country did adopt me, and I am very grateful.  Despite my talking English English, I do embrace the culture, mostly.  

A topic for discussion this week, was Thanksgiving.  It has been rumoured that the actual sharing food was fish!  Perhaps lobster!  The pilgrims lived by the sea.  Turkey was not necessarily on the menu.  My comment last week, about Yorkshire Pudding was tongue in cheek, but a tradition has to start somewhere!  Why turkey?  Probably because it is (or was) a large enough foodstuff to share.  I am also pretty sure that turkey was not on the menu on the original Christmas!  However, I am not going there!  Despite not conforming completely to the language, I do conform to tradition!  

Enjoying Texas is quite easy. The phrase "Everything is bigger in Texas" is very much a tradition.  Texans do enjoy celebrating, and I am happy to be included.  Heading into the yuletide season, ears are treated to the crooning of various celebrities as one enters the shop.  Trees take up an enormous amount of floor space.  Bright and sparkling angels hover over huge red and jeweled encrusted guards.  Wrapping paper looms large at the entrance to every aisle.  Baubles and decorations overflow in bins placed, no doubt, strategically in walkways.  This is all before coming to the food items.  "A must...." and "Don't forget..." signs appear over cans and packets that apparently are needed to make the twenty fifth day of December a success.  

The weather has taken a turn, at least for this week, and started off quite chilly.  I went swimming Monday morning.  It was a little on the cold side, but I was determined to have my last aquatic experience of the year in the last month of the year.  I felt incredibly blessed, floating as the sun rose, being able to enjoy this pastime much further into the year than I had anticipated.  The 'feels like' temperature was about ten degrees colder than the actual, and I knew the time had come to hang up the wetsuit for another season.  The wind picked up and was biting.  Tuesday morning was cold!

I could not resist taking the water temperature on Tuesday morning, mainly to give myself a cast iron excuse as to why I was walking rather than swimming.  It was 51 degrees.  In the past, I may have taken this as a challenge, but I have no need to prove anything, anymore.  I have never really had to prove anything to anyone, except myself, so it really wasn't a win, win situation, neither was it a lose, lose one, but just an 'and your point is?' to myself!  

Texas does appear to bring out the best (or perhaps worst) in me.  It is December.  I live in the largest state in the lower 48!  Everything is not only bigger, but bolder!  I was feeling bold!  Much as my state of attire is conservative, and age appropriate (mainly) I do enjoy the month that hosts the special yuletide date!  It was cold enough to wear the patterned tights, the fun footwear, and of course, the subtle Christmas tree dress.  One of last year's buys was a pair of silver, sparkling boots that would light up a dark room.  They could be hired out for power outages, and diminish the stars that decorate my tights!  Each day I wore something quite sparkly, and totally age inappropriate.  Being the eccentric English woman appears to be my calling.  

The week continued, and the yuletide season started to really take hold!  "Ready for Christmas?" asked one of our servers in the field.  "No!  It's the first week of December!" I responded, sitting at my desk with a tartan skirt, sparkly tights and glittery shoes.  "We get all our presents early, so we don't have to worry and rush around on Christmas Eve" he said with an boyish sense of anticipation.  I acknowledged that it was a very sensible idea to be prepared.  I remember several years ago, receiving a gift from my sister in law, that she had purchased in February, because whilst on the phone, I had broken an ornamental tea-pot and expressed sadness.  I don't think I have ever been that organised!

Friday turned into Saturday, and I met my daughter, who now has a three year old!  It was his party in the afternoon, and was very excited.  I am not sure that he knew exactly why he was excited, but he knew he was having a 'pizza party' and was going to blow out a candle.....again!  

I received a call from my eldest grandson, who had been to see his football (soccer) team play that afternoon.  My son had taken him to Tottenham, and watched them defeat the other team.  Ollie gave me a detailed account of the game.  I told him that the reason I support the same team was because my dad supported them.  "Did he ever go?" he asked.  I told him that my dad lived near the grounds, and would go and see them play.  I thought of how proud my dad would be of my son, and how he would have loved the fact that he takes the boys to football despite them supporting different teams.

The party was fun, with the kids being able to play outside, as the afternoon was glorious, sunny and warm.  He played nicely with his friends, and they all seemed to have a lovely time.  My grandson is an American, and uses American terms.  Grandma may have to conform a little more when it comes to language!  I thought of how proud my dad would be of my daughter, and how he would have loved to have told his friends all about his 'American' great grandson.  It was quite an emotional day.

We did not stay until the end of the party, which went on later than the birthday boy's usual bedtime, but it was a special occasion.  I felt very blessed to receive hugs from my daughter's friends, and to be part of such a lovely afternoon.  

It was a little chilly Sunday morning, and the afternoon was not conducive to sitting outside.  I had managed to get an hour in the sun on Saturday, so feel as if I had 'scored'.  I spoke to my sister, who said it had been raining and quite miserable.  I tidied my sunroom and was quite comfortable in a t-shirt.  I am not sure if Texas adopted me, or I adopted Texas!

I am listening to the 'countdowns' on how many shopping days are left, and wondering, again, where the year has gone!  However, there are still more than three weeks left!  I shall make the most of each day, I hope, and report in ........... another story!

IS IT A BIRD?

The threat of cooler weather was just that; a threat.  I was still in short sleeves, with the option of a jacket, in case the air conditioning (yes air conditioning) in the office became too cool.  I was quite amazed that I was still able to swim in the mornings.  With the wet summer, cooler temperatures, I was quite sure the water would have cooled down, but despite not being boiling, the sun has been shining, and that has helped keep the water warmer.  Scientific, I really aint, but some things are just basic common sense.

It was going to be a short week.  Thanksgiving was looming, and my turkey came out of hibernation, on Monday, and sat in the fridge, defrosting nice and slowly.  I had a lot to do before the big day!  I needed to make room in my freezer for next year's bird, and it did need to be defrosted, so that was my job on Tuesday morning.

Being my worst enemy is not a new thing!  I have no idea what drives me to do certain things.  I am surprised at times when if I do not stick to routine, the world does not come to an end, there are no catastrophic emergencies, both universal or in my own life!  If I do not vacuum my living room on a certain day, the sun still comes up in the morning, and set in the evening.  I know, difficult to believe that my not doing laundry on a designated day, will cause .... nothing!  I think I still hear my mother's voice, telling me that I need to have a routine and that untidiness is evil!  Perhaps she did not use that exact word, but it was intimated!  At least I think it was!

I had my week planned out.  Of course, I had my week planned out!  I knew we would be reasonably busy, and I knew that Wednesday would be manic until about two. I knew people would require the impossible, and I knew they would consider us failures if their wish was not our command!  If I did not stick to my plan, Thanksgiving day would be a disaster, black Friday would be exactly that, a devastation day, and Moaning Mother In Law Saturday would just fail to happen!  The pessimistic me fought long and hard against the optimistic me!  I am still not sure who won!

The turkey was in the fridge.  It was a start.  I finished what I had started in the morning, went swimming, and was amazed that I managed to get to work on time.  Dinner was prepared, and the week looked like it was off to a good start!

A late night was not anticipated, but as usual I could not help myself.  Perhaps if I just start......!  I do like nick-nacks, and nick-nacks like dust.  They don't eat it, unfortunately, (as that would save so much time,) but they do like to wear it.  Also, being totally unscientific, I would like a layman's explanation on how smudges manage to appear on the inside of cabinets, when they have not been opened from one cleaning to another!  It is a mystery! However, some things are just universal!  Thankfully, my husband cares not if the chuckskees do not shine.  In fact, he notices not the chuckskees.  The necessity to make sure all is shiny is self imposed!  What would happen if I did not get rid of that smudge that has appeared?  Who else would notice?  It is one of those areas that I need to deal with. The less time I have, the more things I want to do!  I do not think I am alone!

Defrosting the freezer was on the list.  Thankfully, it did not take long, and I was quite pleased with myself for thinking 'outside the box'.  In fact, it was a box that was the saving of my day!  Grant had told me how he used to separate his freezer with cardboard pieces, to make three sections. It is a brilliant, yet simple idea.  However, when a large item, such as a turkey is removed from the middle section, the other two sides force a cave-in.  Placing a box in the the bottom of the middle section was, to me, a coup!  I was so excited!  Really!  I was excited!  Whilst my freezer was defrosting, I cleaned some nick-nacks.  I also had time to go swimming, and was doing very well organising my time.  Perhaps, just perhaps, I had conquered the myth that the world would come to an end if I did not do....!

Wednesday did not go according to plan.  Of course, we had the usual, "Can't you just leave it with someone at the offices?"  It always amazes me how, supposedly, intelligent people suddenly become completely .... unintelligent.  If, for example, the lobby doors are closed, and there is no access to the building, at all, what on earth makes someone think it is possible to get to the sixth floor!  There may be 'escape' or 'evacuation' options, but that is to get outside from within, not the other way around.  There is no 'someone' there.  The place is closed, locked, and empty.  "Can you phone?"  Common sense takes a holiday, and logic is rearranged into 'clog' with the 'I' being put aside to precede 'want' for those who have lost all sense of reality.  "But it is an emergency".  It is always an emergency!

I got home and started to prepare for my evening, as well as Thursday.  I thought I would prepare as much as possible.  I had spoken to someone earlier in the week, who had said she was preparing early as she had so many to cook for.  I explained that I would be cooking for sixteen.  "Wow", she responded.  "You have sixteen coming for dinner?"  I replied, "No.  Only five, but I will be cooking for sixteen!"  I was doing so well but then came the phone call.   My daughter asked if I was swimming.  I don't usually swim in the afternoons after the clocks 'fall' back.  I told her no.  She asked if I was going to go.  I told her no.  She then burst into tears, and told me that she was not feeling well, that she thought she had a fever, and was hoping that she was just panicking, and did not think she was going to pass out!  "Pull over!" I screamed.  "If you think you might pass out, pull over!"  She repeated that she did not think she was going to pass out. Suffice it to say, without going into details, she got home.  My son-in-law dropped my grandson off at a friend, and took my daughter to urgent care.  I offered to go to her house, but it was quicker to take him to a friend.  She would let me know the outcome of the visit.  For the next hour, I am not sure what I did.  I managed to get my dinner in the oven, overboil my potatoes, prepare some things that should not have been started until the morning, and was generally a nervous wreck.  

It appears that my daughter had a fever and an infection.  She was given antibiotics and told to rest.  She was not sent to hospital, there was no need.  She sounded so much better after the visit, and I was quite relieved.  My potatoes had gone to mush, I would not be making Yorkshire puddings, and lunch, despite being traditional, would have maybe one dish less than usual.  No one would miss it!

I am so thankful for many things.  One is the timer on my oven.  I know, it sounds absurd, but to be able to set it for my potatoes to cook earlier than I intended to rise, was amazing!  I did rise earlier than anticipated, and set to work.  I managed a swim, have coffee with my husband, and then to work!  Telling my daughter that I did not want her to do anything, somehow translated, "I will do everything" to everyone else!  The ribbing I received for not making Yorkshire pudding went on all day.  Since when did Yorkshire pudding become part of Thanksgiving lunch!  However, I did think that as the original Thanksgiving was when the English Pilgrims invited members of the Wampanoag tribe to celebrate their first successful harvest, in 1621, they may have made a tradition Sunday roast!  However, there is no mention in any commentary!  

We enjoyed dinner, had a lovely afternoon, and were quite happy to say cheerio to our guests just before seven.  My house was all cleared up, with washing up done, dishwasher on, tops wiped, oven cleaned, and floors washed!  

Yes, I am my own worst enemy!  After a wonderful breakfast on Friday morning, I set to cleaning my nick-nacks in my kitchen.  On taking some pots from one of my bakers stand, I noticed some strange substance in the bottom of one.  Thinking it may have come from behind the unit I pulled it away from the wall.  Not thinking that I may dislodge some of the items on the top shelf, which I had cleaned on Tuesday, I pulled.  Down fell two glass jars, which I had bought many years ago, containing olives and peppers and other ornamental vegetables.  The mess on the floor was prolific, with glass everywhere, but worst of all, the smell was considerably aromatic, or more to the point, alcoholic!  Although only ever used as an ornament, the fermentation had been years in the making.  All had fallen on the clean floors!  What a mess. It took a few buckets of clean water to remove all vestige of the contents, and longer to eradicate the fumes!  

When I had finished cleaning all my nick-nacks, my husband appeared and asked what I had been doing all afternoon.  I turned on the light and said, "Look".  He looked.  He smiled and asked again.  Once I expressed my disappointment in him not noticing how shiny everything was, he became very prolific with his amazement!  

I got ready to swim on Saturday morning. "You look like you have just got out of bed and are going outside in your pyjamas!" said my husband when I appeared in my toweling robe, joggers and towel.  "Superman has glasses as his disguise!" I retorted.  "Supergram has her robe!"  He pondered.  "How long did it take you to thin that one up?" he said, tongue in cheek!  

Moaning Mother-in-law Saturday started late.  We had our grandson for a sleepover on Friday night, and he had not gone to sleep.  He spent a couple of hours crawling around the bed, simulating climbing up the frame, and then chatting to himself.  I slept little!  My daughter and son-in-law did not arrive until late, but I had hoped that was because she managed to get some rest!  We shopped but not a lot!  At one store, a lady whom we see often, expressed delight at finally meeting 'dad' of the little one, and told him that he had a lovely family.  I responded with, "Especially his mother-in-law".  She laughed far more heartily than I expected!  She asked if I had had a good Thanksgiving.  I responded that I did.  "American style?" she asked.  I nodded, wondering what other style there is!

Another Thanksgiving is over, and I am sitting here, typing, on a cold November day.  It was very chilly this morning, with the temperatures feeling a good ten degrees below what they were, due to the wind.  We went out for breakfast in coats, hats and boots.  Everyone was shivering.  Winter is here, or at least for today. I am very thankful for all I have.  I am thankful that I celebrate Thanksgiving!  I am thankful every day, but it does not hurt to express it on the traditional day.

With the last month of the year starting tomorrow, the lead up to Christmas in full swing, and the atmosphere turning to intense jolliness, I can only hope I have more to write in ......... another story!

HITCHIN' A RIDE!

It was not so much a lack of time, last week, as a lack of opportunity.  I was fully intending to write a week's worth of trivia, but I had promised to look after my grandson, so my daughter and son-in-law could go shopping for furniture.  Although it would be possible to go with a two year old, I know that if I had the chance to 'dump' the kids at my parents' when I had a task like that to fulfill, I would do so.  I was going to have him Saturday, as well, but they were invited to an event, and I encouraged them to go!  Much as I love the little rascal, he is two, and makes a whirling dervish look lethargic!

My car was taken to the 'shop' on Monday for some work that needed doing, and I was collected and taken to the office.  It was going to be a difficult week, having told the mechanic that I was 'not in a hurry' but realising I was going to have to rely on others to take me to work.  I would have to be ready on time!

Despite my best efforts, I was not ready on time!  I had a lot to accomplish.  One of my neighbours had decided, last minute, to host a 'get together' on Friday, and had asked everyone to 'bring a dish to share'. I have a problem with the word 'dish' as in the singular, as I can not conform to the lone digit!  I would make a 'dish' and maybe a dessert, or two!  Unfortunately, or fortunately, as the case may be, relying on others to collect me in the morning did keep me from going 'overboard'.

Arriving home on Monday, I set about getting dinner ready, and finishing the tasks I did not manage to complete in the morning.  I had left the house early, dropped off my car, and although not a 'mess' had left the house, slightly 'out of sync'.  I doubt anyone would have noticed!  

Everything worked out very well on Tuesday morning.  I prepared some things for dinner the following evening, and was confident I would be ready to walk out of the door on time.  However.....!  Life is very simple without gadgets, despite them making it easier!  I have a dispenser under my sink, that holds washing up liquid (dish soap), and when I need to dispense said liquid (soap) I just push down.  When the bottle is empty, I unscrew it, take it out, refill it, and .... that is where the plan falls apart!  I cannot get it back in place!  I have tried.  We have tried, but to no avail!  I thought I had it Monday night, but I did not!  I tried again on Tuesday, and succeeded in taking everything out from under the sink and leaving it strewn across the floor!  My 'handyman' who also doubles up as our hero and office colleague, Grant, is often called to the rescue.  My daughter can take care of almost anything, but she is not always around!  I was late!  Thankfully, Grant came in and saved the day!  The day was not particularly brutal, and we got home, had dinner, and all was well!  All was well, except....the dispenser was not dispensing.  I did wonder if the small straw like hose had come loose.  I unscrewed the bottle, tried to attach the straw, but failed!

I knew I would not be on time on Wednesday.  I just knew!  The fact that everything was going to plan, again, gave it away.  I had dessert ready.  I had prepared dinner, and that was sitting waiting to be put into the oven when the time was right.  I had laid the table, cleared the tops, made the bed, put away the laundry.  Everything was done!  All I had to do was find the slivered almonds for the trout!  

Writing what is in my storage boxes, on the box, was a brilliant idea!  Reading the writing would have been genius!  However, why make things easy for myself!  The most accessible was screaming at me. "Pick me, pick me!" and I should have listened.  The one marked 'sugar' tried to warn me.  Instead, I pulled it out of the freestanding unit with a little more force than necessary.  The unit rocked.  I was not sure what had happened, but soon realised that the two plinths under the unit had popped out (they are Ikea!) and everything was falling forward.  I managed to steady it with one hand, pull as much as I could off the shelves with another, and keep the rest from falling with my foot.  I stood, a few minutes later, and looked at the mess that was my kitchen.  It was a disaster.  I had two choices.  I could stand and cry, before putting everything back where it belonged, or I could go for a swim, message Grant to say I would be late, and clear it up when I got back.  The latter won!

Putting the unit back together was simple.  (It's Ikea!)  Putting everything back into the unit was a little more complicated.  I have a lot of spices on a precarious spice rack.  Perhaps precarious is not the right word.  Perhaps I just have two many spices for the rack!  However, I digress!  I started to put back the pots and jars, and they wobbled and fell, until they didn't!  I am sure it would have taken longer had I decided to cry, and then put it right!  A change is as good as a rest!

I found my almonds!  Dinner was rather good, even if I say so myself, although it was confirmed by others.  The disaster had been repaired, and no one (except everyone) was any the wiser about the situation that had occurred.  Grant replaced the straw, and fixed the dispenser!

The rain came in late Thursday afternoon.  Storms had been reported all around and northern Texas, apparently, was getting drenched.  One of our servers said that she had gone to 'post' a paper to a gate, but the fence had been washed away, with part of the road!  Thankfully, we did not get such sever weather, but the rain that came, came with a vengeance!  

We were only a few minutes late on Friday.  We walked over the shepherd's pie, meringues and lemon cups, and got a nice warm welcome.  It was a small gathering, but pleasant.  A couple arrived a little later, who were not neighbours, but friends of the host.  He was American, although had lived in England as a child, and she was from Brazil.  Although arriving 37 years ago, her accent was still strong.  We shared stories about the immigration process, living in America, and with Americans.  It is always fun talking to another Brit, but equally as amusing talking to another woman abroad!  It was a great end of the week!

I chose to drive to Samantha on Saturday, having got my car back on Friday, ang parked up by the warehouse.  We shopped, and I then made my way back home. There are few places here, perhaps nationally, but definitely in the Austin area, that have a 'roundabout'.  They are not really a function of the traffic system.  However, there is one near the warehouse.  I usually try and avoid it, as no one quite knows how to negotiate this enigma.  There are no traffic lights, no stop signs, no yield signs.  Just a circle in the road.  I was behind a driver that was struck by the 'magic' of the roundabout (pardon the pun, for those in the know) and sat.  A couple of cars came around, but then there were none.  We sat for a while, and eventually, the driver took the plunge and went.  I have no idea what they were waiting for.  I resisted depressing the horn.  

It was a beautiful afternoon.  I went down for a swim and noted that there was a towel on one of the chairs.  I wondered if a neighbour had 'dropped off' her stuff and gone for a walk, but she usually has a book on the chair as well.  I then saw some car keys.  Again, I wondered if it was the friend of another neighbour, who lets herself in and uses our pool, which she should not! I started to mutter about how this was 'not on' and shook my head.  Still muttering, I turned to get into the water, and saw a young neighbour sitting by a tree, and watching me.  We both laughed, and thankfully, she was more interested in the fact that I was wearing a wet suit than the muttering, although she probably thought it was all part of the eccentricity!  I finished my book in the beautiful sunshine.  A true Texas autumn day!

Sunday started cool.  The wind and lack of sun dictated a day indoors, until it didn't!  I decided to take on one of the jobs I hate.  I emptied out the cupboard under the stairs, and stood surrounded by all the contents, when the sun came out.  It was bright, and beautiful.  I stood and looked.   I had two choices.  I could stand and cry, before putting everything back where it belonged, or I could go for a swim, tell my husband not to be concerned about the mess in the kitchen, and clear it up when I got back.  The latter won!  

It took slightly longer to get everything back in the cupboard than it did to put all back in the unit, but it was a good idea to take a break!  Again, I saw a neighbour who thought I was very brave.  Brave or stupid, I just hate to give up my swim!  

Next week will be a short work week, as we will be celebrating Thanksgiving.  An American tradition that we have embraced, full force!  The turkey is waiting to be basted, the vegetables ready to be roasted, and the sweet potatoes ready to have marshmallows spread across them!  Never in my wildest dreams!!!!  No doubt the week will have its share of Thanksgiving tales and I shall endeavour to be thankful in ..........another story!

WHO AM I?!!

Cooler, rather than colder, the week started out, and then, typically, it got warm.  In fact, one might use the word hot!  Obviously, (although why 'obviously' I am not sure,) it was not hot hot, but low nineties can be considered at least a little bit hot!  It is here that I make the promise that this post will not be about the weather, albeit I may mention it from time to time!  I am English, what can I say.  As I told someone this week, you can take the girl out of England, but...!  You know the rest!  It may, however, be a post that has a slight lack of patience to it!

My stress levels rose as I started the week.  Of course, (of course,) it was rediculous.  I had made a dental appointment for Friday, at 8am.  It was done in haste, and it should not have made any difference.  I had to reschedule, and when given the times and days, Friday at 8am seemed to be the most appealing.  I knew the minute I sent back, 'Yes', that I would find it inconvenient!  However, I am not sure any day for the dentist would be 'convenient'.

I chose not to wear boots, despite wearing a jacket, and lamenting over the hibernation of my summer hats.  It was cooler.  November should be cooler.  My poppy was taken out of its hibernation box and worn with pride.  Heading towards Armistice Day, I do tend to get emotional, knowing that my grandfather came home, and I am here, perhaps for a reason!  

As the clocks had gone back, the afternoons are shorter.  I no longer have the privilege of coming home and spending a little reading by the pool.  Those ten to fifteen minutes at the end of the day are a luxury, and I will miss them until such a time as I can do it again.  "Why don't you just take ten minutes, and sit and read?" asked my husband.  It is not quite the same, sitting on the couch and then walking into the kitchen to get dinner ready.  I don't want to lose the feeling of that 'luxury' and get used to the (not so) new life!  It may sound a little odd, but as long as I still feel it is new, and a luxury, I can still enjoy being the Englishwoman abroad.  My neighbours still consider me to be a little eccentric and I am happy to oblige!

My next door neighbour was away for a few days and asked me if I would water her outdoor plants, which sit on her patio.  Naturally, I obliged!  I knew this would not go without a hitch!  I could not remember how to turn on their advanced hose, and try as I might, I could not get it to work.  I felt rather stupid having to send her a message, "How do you turn on your hose?" but did not let pride get in the way.  Being trapped inside their patio was a little more intimidating.  Panic is a strange thing.  I could not open the door, and could not remember if I 'pushed' or 'pulled' to get in.  I tried both ways before standing still and pulling my self together!  I think it was the knowledge that there was a camera pointing down on me that made me stop before I did some damage.  My 'techy' neighbours are very 21st century driven and have all the mod-cons that can possibly be provided!  Of course, the cameras are not there to record my inability to work their hose, or open their door, but for security purposes, but I am sure they get a kick out of my said inability.  However, I digress.  I stood back and looked at the door.  The hinges gave me the ticket out!  Pull!  Not push!  However, the door is quite tall, and I am not!  Stuck fast as the door was, I tried to pull on the bar across the wood, but could not get a decent grip.  I considered calling out maintenance man to help, but had left my phone in my bag, in my car!  In fact, I had left my car running whilst I went to tend to the plants, which I still had not done!  The thought of shouting 'help' did cross my mind, but who would hear?  I thought of looking into the camera and asking it to call someone, but refused to go down that route.  One more pull should do it, surely.  Eventually, I was freed!  It was one of those moments when you thing, "Thank goodness no one saw that", but of course, they would!

Gracious as she always is, my neighbour told me how to work the hose, indicating that it is a bit tricky.  Of course, it isn't!  It is me that is a bit tricky!  I managed to water the plants later that evening, and kept the back gate open!

My levels of frustration grew during the week with the inability to get past 'protocol'.  'Red tape' as it was once called, appears to be everywhere!  Trust is a thing of the past, and having to prove who you are, to those whom you have asked a question but do not have to prove who they are does not quite fly with me!  I had sent a letter, certified mail, with a request for a receipt card to be returned.  The receipt card was somehow detached before reaching the destination.  I say somehow as I have taken to taping the card to the envelope so that it is not easily detachable.  I could possibly understand if it did not come back because it was not easily detachable, but it would have to be a purposeful act to detach it before arriving at its destination.  Perhaps I am giving out too much information here!  However, my card receipt was returned before delivery.  I checked the post office website and it indicated that my letter (containing legal documents) had been collected by an individual.  I needed to know who signed for the letter, so that I could generate an affidavit and send it to the attorney who had requested the service.  I spoke to a lady who was most apologetic at the receipt having been detached, and asked me for the destination address, which I gladly gave to her.  I gave her the receipt number, and the date it was sent.  I gave her the addressee, and I gave her my details.  "I can see that it was received, but not at the address where you say it was sent".  I found that a little odd, but continued to ask if I could get a copy of the signature.  "I can't do that until you can give me the address where it was received".  I told her that I had given her the address to where I had sent it.  It was on the envelope, on my paperwork, and on the receipt.  She asked if I had called to see if the recipient had, in fact, received the letter.  I explained that it was a law suit, that the recipient was the defendant and the likelihood of admitting receipt when they knew that would enable the law suit to become active was very low.  She then asked if I had another address for the defendant.  No, or I would have sent it there!  She said that I could fill out a form to claim ..... but I couldn't as I did not have the address of the recipient.  "Perhaps it was forwarded?" I tried.  No, the website would state that.  "But it was picked up at the post office, and I have given you that address, as well".  No, it was not the address she had in front of her.  Then, to add insult to injury, she told me, "I do not know who you are so cannot provide you with the information you require.  You gave me an address, so I can't give you another one".  She had asked me for the address.  Who did she think I was.  Who would ask for details of a package, providing such detailed information if I did not have the detailed information in front of me.  I could see the letter was delivered.  I just needed to see a signature!  We went round in circles.  "Did you address the envelope yourself?"  Well, that would depend on if I was really me!  Yes!  Of course! "How can I give you another address if I don't have one!  This is to where it was addressed"  No good!  After twenty minutes of going back and forth, I finally gave up.  I knew the letter was received, and I would have to hope the judge would accept the evidence put forth, perhaps including the conversation with the operator!  

Finally, Friday arrived and I longed for my appointment to be put behind me.  Getting my chores and exercise completed, I managed to walk into the dentists' office a few minutes before 8am!  "Hey Miss Tracie.  Good to see you!" said the lovely receptionist.  I greeted her and her colleague, and exchanged pleasantries.  Then I was called in.  It was a new nurse, or dental assistant is probably the preferred term.  I do not like change!  However, willing to give her the benefit of the doubt, I sat down and opened my mouth!  It rook no time at all to undo my first thought.  I am not opposed to advice, but I do not like to be lectured by someone on a subject that is not theirs to lecture!  "You need to....", she kept saying, with no regard to my teeth.  "Have you been tested for...." she continued.  "Everyone needs to...." she went on.  It reminded me of the commercial years ago, that I saw as a child, when a young mother, apparently turning 40, was pushing a pram and slowly fell into a faint, because she did not know that she had to take a certain medication. I was terrified.  Did my mother know about this medication.  She was nearing 40.  Of course, my mother did not need the medication, but the inference had scared me tremendously.  I suppose that was the purpose.  This lady was giving me medical advice because of my age, despite not knowing my medical history.  Of course, I had my mouth wide open so I could not respond.  I was also not going to let her know what tests, precautions, antipodes, I take for anything.  It was not even her business to know how and when I brush my teeth.  I felt sad.  Up until now, I had really liked the Norwegian Goddesses!  Would I have to change my dentist?  I should, perhaps, have mentioned it to someone else, but I did not.  My next appointment was scheduled, and I will see what transpires!  It may seem to be trivial, but in an age where you have to prove your identity to find out where your letter was received, it is probably best to be cautious!  

Finally, a weekend!  The weather was perfect.  I wore shorts on Saturday!  I went to my usual haunts and managed to get a couple of hours reading and relaxing.  Luxury!  I put all the frustrations of the week behind me!   

I chased the sun around the patio in the afternoon.  Eventually, I had to give up, and resign myself to winter!  Dana was watching  a football game when I finally surfaced from my happy place.  Another Texas team was playing Missouri.  I cannot get over the fact that arch rivals can be supported just because they are Texans, but then I am not a Texan!  Being adopted by the state does not take the Englishwoman out of me.  I support two teams...the one I support, and whichever is playing my arch rival!  However, this time was different.  As I have mentioned, I spent time in Missouri.  The long standing joke that has become a thing each football season!  (For those who do not know, the first time we visited my sister-in-law in Arkansas, my husband mentioned we had collected two States.  Oklahoma and Arkansas.  "The Missouri border is five minutes away, wanna go?" she asked.  I walked across the border, took a picture, walked back, then got in the car, which had to be turned around...by going back into Missouri. However, the picture did not take so we had to repeat the performance.  Hence I went to Missouri several times!)  Missouri lost!  Badly!  

Today is Armistice Day, and wreaths were laid at the Cenotaph in England.  Veterans' Day is on Tuesday! I thank those Veterans, and their families, and all those who did not return with my grandfather! From the bottom of my heart! I am sure the reason why I am here is not to write posts on a Sunday!  However, it may be one reason, so I shall continue, hopefully, with ........... another story!