ESTIMATED TIME OF ARRIVAL!

It is a strange phenomenon to consider myself as a 'local' yet still as an immigrant.  How do you know that you have 'arrived'.  I know I repeat this on occasion, but it still makes me smile!  This week gave me many instances to think that I am, although not by birth, a Texan.  There are a few slogans here that I can relate to.  The first one that comes to mind is quite apt for me.  "I was not born here, but I got here as fast as I could".  Then there are others that apply to those that complain.  "Welcome to Texas!  Wipe your feet on your way out". and "If you (heart symbol) 'love' New York so much, go back!"   It is hard not to embrace Texas, as it becomes a part of you.  It is a way of life, not just a state!  

My daughter sent me a video from the four hour event at the baseball match, giving a thirty seven second clip of all, supposedly, the best 'bits' of the day.  There, at just about the half way mark, am I, with my daughter, waiting in line to have our faces characterised.   Second by second, we are making our way to the 'fifteen minutes' hall of fame!  

Who would have thought I would use words like 'Tornado' with wanton abandon!  Discussing the inclement weather with our maintenance man, was another reminder that I have 'arrived'.  Everyone is concerned about the high winds, the drastic changes in temperature and the vicious storms that we have encountered.  "This is Austin", I responded.  He concurred.  Having moved from Mexico as a teenager, he lived in California for a good part of his life, he moved across the country and ended up here! He is often asked, when he retires will he go back to Mexico, and his answer is, "Why?"  We are a kindred spirit when it comes to 'home'.  Home will always be home, but a way of life is a way of life!  For someone who was so patriotic for England, I surprise myself at how I have acclimatised! albeit, not in spelling!  However, I digress.  Raul and I were agreeing that this is the norm for this time of year.  One of the first years I lived here, we had a ravaging hail storm that caused everyone to hold their breath.  We were in a restaurant with a metal roof, and it sounded as if we were being attacked!  "Welcome to Texas, y'all", said a waiter, as he walked past, not flinching an iota!  Again, I digress1  The weather this week was going to be different, but then it is March.  In like a lion and out like a lamb, so I am told.  This year, as with most years, the lion was roaring!

'Arriving' at the post office, is always fun!  I have been going to the post office at this location for many years1  Our regular guy, who still looks the same as he did over a decade ago, no younger, no older, was the only person at the counter.  He was attempting to help someone, as the queue was getting longer.  Not mentioning any names, to protect the innocent, although I do not think there would be repercussions as the post office appear to have problems keeping staff, and expulsion would just mean more negativity, (oops, too political?) the staffer 'um'ed and 'ah'ed over the problem.  Each time he told the customer to go to the next window and ring the bell, he asked another question before said customer could leave the spot.  Eventually, after the crowd learned the type of premises in which the customer lived, the fact that his mail was delivered to a 'box', which perhaps had been vandalised, perhaps just replaced, but whatever the event, his key did not fit in the lock anymore.  He did not want to pay for a new key.  It was not his fault that the lock was changed.  He just wanted his mail.  It appears that the condo association (whoops, gave away his residence type) put the new box on site, and he would have to get the key from his HOA.  Eventually, he moved over!  Another member of the personnel came away from her post, not behind the counter, and moved swiftly to the back of the building.  Unfortunately, the guy at the counter could not get to her quick enough to enlist her help at the front desk, so he continued alone.  The queue grew longer.  My turn came, and I gave him my mail.  I was greeted with enthusiasm, and a comment of how I had not been seen in the vicinity for a while.  After exchanging pleasantries, I asked if he had certain denominations of stamps. They were not within his immediate reach, but he offered to go 'out back' to look.  "No!" I screamed, a little too hysterically!  "I will come back.  You have too many customers".  He responded that it was my turn, and he could go and look if I wanted him to.  I had been waiting for a long time.  I was grateful for this consideration, but I needed not to irritate the crowd.  Admittedly, this is Austin, and the crowd were quite 'laid back' but there can be a 'cuckoo in the nest'.  I returned to the office without stamps, but with a good story!

The dentists' receptionists were delighted (or seemed to be) to see me.  Despite the 'clinical' surroundings, the atmosphere is anything but!  I am still treated like a celebrity (somewhat) and my attire usually causes a bit of a flurry.  "Are you going somewhere special?" they ask.  "No.  Just here." I respond.  Giggles can be heard.  I maintain the illusion of the 'eccentric' Englishperson!  Although I do not drink tea from a china cup with my little finger pointed to the sky, I manage to 'pull off' the slightly curious personality!  It is amusing to think I am 'famous' by just being British!

Not wearing green on St. Patrick's day always causes a fuss.  I am not Irish!  I am English.  My patron saint is George!  He slew the dragon!  There is a strange custom whereby, the origin of which I believe leads straight back to the leprechaun, pinching for not wearing the 'envy' hew is compulsory.  Only one person ever pinched me.  The verbal beating  they received was (albeit in the nicest possibly way) enough to prevent them from doing it again. "You are not wearing green.  It's Saint.....", and they stop.  Although my tongue can be a worthy weapon, most consider me to be polite, kind, and even charming. Obviously, it is the way I say it!  Once St. Patrick's day was over, I could wear green, which I did.  In fact, the most amusing thing for me was that I found a hat, in Walmart, at 75% off, as it was now considered 'clearance' which matched one of my dresses perfectly.  Moreover, I received many, many compliments.  I only admitted to a few the purchase price, although I am now admitting it to ....a few more!

Mother's day is definitely different.  I remember the time we went out to celebrate, meeting Dana's daughter at the restaurant, along with Samantha and Edward, all holding cards and flowers.  I was bought a wonderful dessert, and as everyone sang happy birthday, I could not bring myself to tell her the truth!  I told my daughter today that she was the mother of an American, and could she really celebrate?  Of course, she is an English mother!  I wonder if her child will honour both, as she does for me!

I cannot deny that I miss England.  I miss the England I left.  I miss the history, the culture and of course, most of all, my family and friends.  I have made friends here, but they are obviously not 'life long'.  (Apart from Lynda, another ex-pat, but we live far apart.)  However, having 'arrived' and having that feeling that I belong, brings me very much down to earth, with my feet firmly planted in Texas!  As someone who never planned to live anywhere else but England, I cannot help but wonder if I will be here forever.  As nothing on earth lasts forever, I wont make a prediction.  Deep? Too profound?  Time for .......... another story!  

AI FOR DUMMIES!

The countdown begins. Apparently, swimming on Saturday and Sunday means that in six (perhaps eight) weeks, the pool becomes 'functional'.  As soon as we have a few dry, post 80 degree days, in succession, I get the messages.  "Have you started swimming yet?"  I sometimes feel like Punxsutawney Phil.  If I get in the water and can swim for two consecutive days, then the month and a half countdown to summer begins.  If I only swim one day, then it gets put on hold!  Who am I to argue?

With the 'lost' hour still very much at play, the water is not warm enough until slightly later in the day.  I have long since decided not to pick up the gauntlet, so to speak, and go forth with the challenge.  If someone else wishes to become the 'thermometer' then so be it, but no one appears to want to take on the task!  

The wind picked up again on Sunday night, and Monday morning was quite chilly.  However, the sunrise is getting a little earlier, and it is worth the walk up the hill to watch the early morning sky start to brim over with yellow and gold.  The birds (despite not being quite as raucous as 'at home') were very vocal, and the sighting of a small grey rabbit with a brilliant, almost luminous, white fluffy tail, made my morning.  I was ready to start the week.

I was ready to start the week until the week actually started!  It was one of those, 'if it can go wrong', type of days.  Admittedly, most of the 'calamities' were 'user error', which culminated into a crescendo.  "Rush" was the word of the day, and getting myself 'locked' out of computers, printers, and anything else electronic was purely due to more speed, less haste!  It was like trying to wipe out a small stain with a black marker pen!  The more I attempted to resolve the problem, the worse it got.  Eventually, as I was about to pull every plug in the building, I came to my senses, and resolved the very simple initial problem.  Before sending to 'print', check how many pages you have in your document, and do not ask for duplication until you have put in the preference for 'page one' only!  Those of my era will understand what I am saying.  In my day, "A I" were the first and third vowels in the alphabet, and were usually accompanied by 'E', 'O', and 'U'.  I can tell you, "A I" were not the first letters that came to mind!  "Eee, ohhhhyooo" could be heard in screams rather than harmony!  "I" was not doing very well, and "A" was not the grade I would be achieving!  

With Monday coming to an end, I vowed I would do better in the coming days!  Spring break meant less traffic on the roads, and perhaps a quieter week.  The problem, or perhaps issue, or perhaps consequence, of a holiday, is that it is an opportunity for families to spend time together, (not a problem, or issue,) which means that there is perhaps less pressure from 'the top' and more time to spend 'catching up'.  Of course, when the cat is away, the mouse will cause much oppression upon those who are not on vacation!  'Catch up' could be put into a modern day term, and perhaps, the way we can deal with it would be to call it 'cAItch up'!  I wonder where 'EOU' will end up!  Having said that, the 'superfluous' 'U' had been dropped by the Americans a long time ago.  Obviously, not all the 'U's!  "Team -SA" would be a bit confusing at the Olympics!

My week continued, as always, and I spent a considerable time making dinner for a small group, which became smaller by the minute!  My 'usual suspects' each have their favourites, which I rotate, but there are some meals where I do please all the people all the time!  Anything with puff pastry is always a winner!  I made several 'pockets' hoping that I would have enough for left overs, and maybe a portion to freeze.  My 'group' dropped to one extra!  I was rather pleased when my one guest went back not only for seconds, but thirds!  My freezer gained a couple of meals.  We had enough for leftovers.  I was able to 'give away' a couple of meals.  We all probably gained a couple of pounds!  

"You have won" came up in all three emails.  Another 'meet and greet' was up for grabs, and we had all gained a spot in the 'lounge'.  Pizza for lunch!  Samantha could not make it, but Grant was having to watch his eleven year old nephew for the day.  He had brought him into the office, as the 'cAItch up' brigade were marching at full force, and our 'In box' was being bombarded!  We headed out to the radio station, and arrived early.  Greeted by the DJ, Grant's nephew was amazed that his uncle was being called by name!  We explained that we have known her for a long time, and gave him a brief history of how we got to know her so well.  I think he got lost after the first sentence, but it did little to dampen his amazement.  Being invited into a room, with just two other people, and having several pizza boxes put in front of us, with the one word, "Enjoy!" being proclaimed, made the young lad think his uncle really was a VIP!  (No 'A' in that!)  

The artist was late.  Apparently, his plane was delayed!  Despite all the technological advancements in the world, a delayed plane can bring things to a screeching halt!  We were not unhappy.  We had pizza!  One member of staff came in, very cautiously, and apologised profusely for the wait.  We all shrugged our shoulders, not able to talk as our mouths were full, but somehow managed to infer that it was all good!  After all, this was a prize, and we were being fed!

Marc Scabilia arrived with his drummer, and gave an outstanding performance, despite having been up all night and delayed through no fault of his own.  We thoroughly enjoyed the show, and Grant's nephew would have something to tell his school pals on Monday!  

The weekend was calling, metaphorically, of course.  Samantha had told me that her local baseball stadium was going to have an 'Open Day' on Saturday, and wondered if we could 'change up' the usual routine.  "Of course!" I said, as I contemplated all the ways this would mess with my routine!  I would have to drive to her house, which would not be a problem.  We would take the little one around the stadium, and then drop him off before going to the shops.  Again, not a problem.  I would arrive back at my house later in the afternoon than I had anticipated, which would not be a ......  Okay, perhaps I had a slight problem with that!  As I took the umpteenth 'spam' call of the day, and thought about how AI would do well to 'vet' its subjects before calling and offering nonsensical things to me, and then thinking, "Oh my goodness, they are now going to vet the calls ...", I thought about my dilemma.  How precious was my time, but more to the point, how much more precious was time with my grandson!  I miss my boys in England and relish the thought of spending time with them.  Here I had that opportunity and I was concerned about finishing my book!  The new me had arrived!  No, it did not mean I would be talking like a GenZ, or next generation GenZ (I would not understand myself - I would need AI to interpret ME!)  I would not be asking my phone for directions, or Siralexa how to make an apple pie, but a 'me' that would not so constrained by time!  Well, maybe one step at a time!

We had a great time at the Dell Diamond stadium.  We had our picture taken with Spike, the mascot. (I hope they pay that guy well!)  I queued to have our caricatures drawn, while Samantha took Teddy to the balloon stand.  It appeared to take as long for the balloon lady to twist the balloons into a shape as it did for the artist to pen the likeness of three people!  "You might need to give her a lesson" said my daughter, remembering my (short lived) days as a children's entertainer!  Captain America and Snow White were waiting to have our picture taken with them before we left!  

There was a lot more we could have done, but a little boy needed his nap, and he was just a little bit too small for some of the adventures!  We dropped him off with his dad, and went on our way to the shops, where we wandered around and enjoyed the freedom!  

I managed to get a couple of hours R & R at the pool, but did not swim.  It was just a little too chilly for me.  "Do you want me to push you in?" asked our chairman!  I retorted with a definite "No!"  He would have to restart his countdown if I didn't swim!  

Dana and I had a great evening.  We watched a selection of old British commercials, which happened to pop up on our television.  I do not want to think how that was considered an option that we might enjoy, but enjoy it we did! I must say that most of the 'because you watched' categories are rather less than inviting, but it brought back some fun memories, and made me smile.

Sunday morning was a little dull, but the birds were quite vocal.  I did not get to see the sunrise in all its glory as the clouds were too dense.  However, the birds sang loudly and there was a promise of a brighter afternoon.  I spent a lovely hour chatting to my sister, and then set about finishing my current book.  Another friend called, and my book would be set aside to have the finale read another day!  It wasn't a regular weekend, but I am all for change, on occasion!  

Another week looms, and I am aware that the year is moving a lot faster than I would like.  I suppose that is an 'age' thing, where things seem to go faster the older you become.  Life continues on and again I look at the fact that I am her, in Texas for yet another spring.  Another week of unknown with a vague promise of ....... another story!

YOU WEAR IT WELL!

When nothing much appears to be happening, most things run smoothly.  The calm that came over everyone a couple of weeks ago, as the sun started to shine, and the winter appeared to depart, again, but being that March was roaring around the corner, perhaps for good this end of the year, was very much evident.  Smiling faces replaced those that could not be seen as they were behind scarves or winter face coverings.

My plants were taken from their indoor vacation site and replaced outside.  I hoped they would appreciate a little bit of fresh air and sun.   Some flourish inside, others just tolerate the different environment.  Edgar, our moringa tree, who insists on disguising himself as a stick, had lost a lot of his blossom, but grown a few leaves.  If he were in a fairy tale, in a couple of years, there would be a giant somewhere in the vicinity!  He is not strong enough to have Jack climb him, but he keeps growing!  We have grown very attached to Edgar!

Going from boots and heavy coats to sandals and light jackets is a way of life.  It was nice to see some familiar faces, as most had been hibernating during the less than clement climes. Last week dogs looked like they were ready to run a couple of miles, and their owners appeared to be glad to let them pull them along!  

Winning tickets to a show for a Thursday evening was exciting.  Despite being the cool, hip woman that I have become, I was willing to give them away.  The email did let me know that the tickets were transferable, but only once.  I asked Jerry if he would like to take my place, and he jumped at the chance.  "How did you get....never mind...I will take them!"  I have been asked how, as a (relative) newcomer, do I manage to get so many invitations.  Of course, it is because I enter the contests!  "How did you find out about them?" is a harder question.  I can't remember how I first became aware of them, but when I did, I checked for more!  I often say it is like 'street signs'.  I once heard someone say that locals don't necessarily notice new signs, as they know the area.  Visitors pay more attention.  Although not strictly a visitor, I was a newcomer to the area, and found out everything I could about the local scene!  I responded to the email and asked if they could be transferred.

The week continued and it was, as mentioned, totally uneventful, in terms of exceptional excitement.  The weekend was totally uneventful as well, but that was also not such a bad thing!

A new week started, and with the weather being warmer, I knew there was going to be an upsurge in tempo.  I was also going to have a late night on Friday evening, which I was broaching with a level of anticipation.  

There were going to be things to do!  Having, once again, determined on which day my grandson's birthday fell, (my son called me when he was born, but it was still the previous day here, due to the hour difference,) I bought a card, but then realised it would arrive later than I had originally anticipated, as I had also miscalculated the days!  February ends, and March always catches me off guard!

The winds picked up again on Wednesday, and by Thursday night they were howling.  The debris was not too bad on Friday, and as the tempest quelled, so the temperatures rose.  "I am making Yorkshire Pudding!" announced our postman.  He had previously told me that his father's family came from Cornwall, and his father was born in Oxford.  His mother is American, and they ended up back in Texas after a brief time in Blighty.  He, the postman, is himself American but quite proud of his ancestry.  He asked me if I had any tips.  After going back and forth sharing a few experiences, I gave him a couple of chefs to consider 'checking out' when making traditional British fare!  

Deciding what to wear was a bit of a problem, and I am quite pleased I opted for jeans and boots.  I was also pleased (after having left it in the car, and going back to retrieve it) that I had taken a jacket, as our seats were directly below the air conditioner vent at the venue!  Samantha and I shared a pot of chips (fries) which cost almost as much as the tickets!  "No!  She did not win!" was her response to everyone who asked how we managed to get tickets to Rod Stewart's final tour!  My daughter had booked seats and presented them to me as a Christmas present.  I had once mentioned that the only time I would consider going back to see the Formular 1 race, after seeing Elton John, was if  David Bowie or Rod Stewart were performing.  Obviously, the former being deceased would not be an option, but the latter may have considered the post!  As Rod was coming to town, she (thoughtfully) decided I could not miss the opportunity.  

Cheap Tricks was the opening act, and although I didn't associate them with any songs, I knew a few they performed.  An elderly lady sat at the end of our row, and when they came on to the stage, she suddenly started 'strutting her stuff' like a teenager.  The couple who sat next to Samantha were it would seem, on a ffirst (or second) date.  He explained that he went 'a bit wild' at concerts, and his girlfriend acknowledged that she could see that!  

As Rod Stewart came on to the stage, the crowd erupted into cheers and applause.  We listened to him sing and sang along.  He explained that he had been concerned about cancelling as he had not felt very
good when arriving form Florida.  He had become a victim of Texas' cedar fever, but with the help of a medical professional and a local ENT clinic, he was now in great form!  The crowd once again went wild, as we all know how the cedar trees affect us!  

The young man next to Samantha was being rather aggressive in his dancing and shouting, and was told to turn it down a notch or two!  His girlfriend, who had appeared to be a little embarrassed by his behaviour, then decided to stick by his side, and got up to dance to "Do you think I'm sexy!"  It would appear that the old fashioned sentiment of 'nots' on a first date (or second) did not apply!  We had a separate 'x-rated show' of our own!

I forgot that Maggie May was released as early as 1971!  I stood and sang to the whole song.  I remember so clearly seeing it being performed on Top of The Pops, an English television show, all those years ago, and being mesmerised.  The then young singer, picked up the microphone stand and strutted across the stage, twirling the stand as he sang and danced.  The following week he was still 'Top of the Pops' and I was in love!  It was probably then that my mother decided I was going to be a problem teenager!  (I wasn't, she just assumed I would be because of my abominable taste!)  The following Christmas I received two albums.  One was 'Every picture tells a story' and the other 'Never a Dull Moment'.  Although my parents, at the time, could not see the allure, years later my father told me that he had bought an album.  "You will never guess what" he said, and after telling me that he had never seen the attraction, I guessed.  It was the first Rod Stewart singing love songs, which was full of 'golden oldies'.  That Christmas I presented my father with a second Rod Stewart album, as he had done me so many years ago!

The concert was amazing and we stayed until the very end!  We weaved our way through the crowds, and got to the car quite quickly.  I got home and was 'buzzing'.  At eighty years old, he has still 'got it!'  I only hope I can 'move' half as good when I hit his age.  Having been able to attend concerts on a fairly regular basis, I revel in the fact that I have seen some of my teenage favourites live, performing songs that I used to dance to.  Watching THE Sir Rod Stewart performing Maggie May live, was one of my life's amazing pastimes!  

I was exhausted Saturday morning, but drove to my daughter's.  We went shopping and I returned home and went to relax by the pool.  The weather had been beautiful for a few days, and I actually got in the water and swam!  A little on the chilly side, but warm enough to get some laps in!  The wind had increased the amount of leaves in the skimmers and I cleaned them out twice!  I love that job!  It reminds me of the blessing of having access to a pool!

The clocks went forward on Sunday, and I called my sister two hours early, having got totally confused with the time!  We are now only five hours behind.  We got to look after our youngest grandson as his mother went out for lunch with some friends, and were thoroughly exhausted after he left!  Two is such a fun age!

I do not think I will have anything to match this past week's events in the forthcoming seven days, but who knows, there is always something just around the corner, and I have been promised a picture of the Yorkshire Puddings, but all that will  have to be put into ........... another story!

THREE WEEKS NOTICE!

There was just too much going on a couple of weeks ago, for me to sit down and write.  Amazingly enough, I had a full day!  I was ready to go, but I simply had to leave!  We had tickets to see the Harlem Globetrotters!  During the previous week, I had been asked if I had any plans for the 'Superbowl' weekend.  I responded that I had tickets to see, possibly, the most famous basketball team of all time.  "Wow, they would be pretty old by now," came the reply.  I was gracious, and explained that it was probably (definitely) not the original players.  "Oh", came the response.  It had been an interesting week.  

Accessing the various contest pages, I found a 'meet and greet' for a station that has not had a lunchtime special for five years.  One of the ladies who used to work for the station that greets us as 'VIP's' had moved to a competitor.  I clicked on the entry form, and entered three names.  However, when I went back into the site the following day, it was nowhere to be found.  I wondered if I had clicked on an old contest, as sometimes they 'pop up'.  Time would tell!

The previous week plodded on and the heat was quite oppressive.  I sat in the sun on Saturday, and by Sunday it had got much cooler.  After breakfast with my husband, I went for a walk, came back, spoke to my sister, and then got in my car to drive to my daughter's house.  Edward took us to the event.  As we were in the car queuing, I told him to tell the parking attendant that there was a baby and an old lady in the car.  I was quite amazed when he did.  I was even more amazed when we were told to turn left into the car park, rather than right as everyone else was turning, and parked two rows back from the entrance!

Our seats were not too far back, and the show was already underway as we sat, although the game had not yet started.  Having grown up watching the cartoons, and seeing the odd clip from the 'original' team tours, I never thought I would have the opportunity to watch the showman take the stage!  Naturally, seeing the original team would have been amazing, but the skill and showmanship is still as good as ever! Despite, no doubt, being choreographed, you cannot fake such a skill.  My grandson seemed to enjoy the game, and definitely enjoyed the interactive part of the afternoon.  Once again, I marveled at the different route my life has taken since journeying across the pond to live!  

I returned home, decided to make 'snacks' instead of going out to dinner, or grabbing a take away meal, so that we could watch the Superbowl.  I did have a 'dog in the hunt' this time, as I decided to cheer for the underdogs.  I watched the National Anthem being played, the toss of the coin, and the kick off, and then vehemently encouraged the runner who had the ball with 'go on', as he headed for the 'end zone'.  It was then that I realised that I had no idea who was wearing what colours!  I could have been shouting for the enemy!  As it so happens, it was the Eagles that scored first, leaving the Chiefs to catch up.  I messaged my neighbour, as she had done me a few weeks ago and rather than ask if we were being too noisy, apologised for the hopefully vast amount of cheering that may happen.  She said she had not heard a thing, and was herself hosting a Superbowl party, so would probably be making a lot of noise too!  She did not feel the need to tell me to let her know if they were making too much noise, as it was Superbowl, and like watching the FA cup, it is expected!  My neighbour, despite being Texan born, hails from Scottish parents, and has Scottish siblings!  Fortunately, we were both cheering for the same team, and came to the conclusion that we would drown each other out with enthusiasm.  

The Eagles were successful in almost shutting down the Chiefs completely, but a few well thrown passes saw the end score as less of an embarrassment than it could have been.  We had potato skins, filo pockets and a few other goodies for our supper, and were quite happy with the result!

The next week came and went with some fun in the middle. Having wondered, as mentioned, whether the 'meet and greet' was an old contest, I was rather delighted to see an email inviting me to the radio station on Thursday.  Samantha and Grant also received emails.  There was no need for response, but we did get a follow up email the following day asking if we were definitely going to attend.  We all responded in the affirmative.  

Once again, the temperatures dipped, and Tuesday and Wednesday saw torrential rain.  My tickets to the 'wrestling' arrived on Tuesday, but I did not feel like travelling across town to go after a long day at work.  Despite marveling at the opportunity, I was not quite as enthusiastic.  However. Edward's friend had been given a couple of free tickets, and could not decide who to take.  Having another four helped in his plight!  It is just as good to give them to a worthy cause!

Thursday morning was cold, and whilst I dressed appropriately for the climes, my attire did nothing to give away my lunchtime destination, although the mock snakeskin boots may have been a little more 'country' than the rest of me, the heels did not add to the authenticity.  We arrived at the radio station on time, and took the lift to the floor three.  None of us recognised the layout as the studio offices have been completely renovated.  With no more reception desk, we walked into the new open plan area, and were invited to take a drink and some pizza  Recognising the 'old friend', we walked along the line.  "Hello" said our old friend.  I responded in kind, and added, "How are you?"  She started to answer, looked up and then came running around the the table, shouting, "Oh my gosh!! Oh my gosh!!" and gave me an enormous hug, then hugged Samantha and Grant. Once again, we were the centre of attention.  What caused more of a stir was that there were no 'reserved' signs on the chairs in the front row, and Samantha walked straight up to the premier seating and took her place, with us following.  We were all there to hear the country and grammy award singer, Rick Trevino.  Grant had not realised but this was one of his youthtime favourites.  He sang along to every song.  

It was a wonderful experience, and once again, we had our own version of 'The Brits'!  "We have lived here all our lives and don't know how to get invited to these things" we here often.  Dana enjoyed the pizza we were able to bring home.  

The weekend arrived and Valentines Day came and went for another year.  One of the warehouses had obviously completely underestimated their ability to sell festive blooms and over ordered, or over 'festively wrapped' a couple of hundred bouquets.  Entering, there was a whole section of blooms on sale for $5.  Walking around, there were several more stands containing bouquets.  It seemed criminal to leave them all there, but alas I could not purchase the entirety.  My daughter's anniversary was excuse enough to buy a couple more than just the one.  They were quite beautiful, not worth the original price by any means in my opinion, but at a fraction, a delight!

A beautiful afternoon allowed me to sit outside for a while, but I knew this would be the only day of the long weekend that would allow such a pleasure.  Another sharp drop in the temperature would mean that my plants would be enjoying an inside vacation for a few days!  

Sunday arrived, once again, and I braved the cold and went for an early morning walk.  One of my neighbours was out throwing away some rubbish and tidying out his car, wearing short trousers and flip flops!  Despite being wrapped up with gloves, cap, coat and scarf, I felt cold just watching him.  The wind was bitter.  However, he was off to South America for the week, where 70 degrees is perfect! 

Then there was last week!  I had completed my post but as President's Day was on Monday, I (foolishly) thought I would just 'edit' and post a day late.  Obviously, it didn't happen.

I had a lovely day off on Monday.  Samantha and I took the little one, and spent the day in a bygone year fashion.  We went shopping!  Down to the outlet mall, 'just because'.  It was not too cold, but the wind was quite bitter.  We lunched on the tailgate of her truck, with some fast food, and headed back, stopping at several strip malls along the way.  Wanting to leave the mall by two was a successful plan.  In fact we left sometime before, but with so many 'other' places to visit, we did not get back until much later than we had planned. 

Tuesday was a beautifully sunny day.  It was fairly warm, but we did not fall for the 'false sense of security'.  By nine, the wind was fierce, the rain was cold, and we hoped that it would stop before the ground froze.  Thankfully, the moisture evaporated before the morning.  However, below freezing it was.  

Amazingly enough, this cold snap did not keep people indoors, as much as the previous spell.  Deliveries of mail were brought in, and handed over quickly.  It was like handling 'hot cakes' but at the other end of the spectrum!  The envelopes were not just cold, but burning cold!  Thankfully, by Friday, the temperatures rose above freezing, but only just!  When it's cold, not a lot happens!   

Another week (or three) in the life of the Englishwoman abroad, and I hope that you will tune in for ........... another story!

INCY WINCY SPIDER!

Just like that!  It was all over!  The snow cleared, the temperatures rose, the rain poured, and then dried in the hot sun.  Welcome to Texas y'all!

The week started with my feet running as they touched the ground!  Emails were relentless, and time was not my friend!  However, it was warm enough to walk, and the 'animals' were finally venturing out to see if spring had, indeed, sprung.  As I headed up the hill, I noticed an arachnid, that with the 'bad rap', beginning with 'T', ending in 'A', with 'arantul' in the middle!  (My daughter would never forgive me for writing the full name!)  I sent a picture to my grandson.  Interestingly enough, I sent a picture to my grandson, which meant that I had to stop, get within inches of the said 'arantul' and not only take a picture, but 'hang about' long enough to take a video.  Since living in Texas, despite not wanting to spend the night with such creature, or being within their presence without having them in sight, I have learned of their (apparent) kind nature!  Just because they make 'great pets', I am not about to test the rumour!  However, I digress!  My grandson replied with "Wow".  We chatted back and forth for a while and I explained the bit about it not being 'highly' dangerous, and he responded again with "Wow!" 

"You are used to this weather", said one of our office neighbours, as we walked up the ramp.  It is amazing how many people think that it is always raining in England.  I simply smiled, and asked if he managed to take his trip, which had been planned sometime ago. to the motherland.  He said that he had, and he and his family had enjoyed it very much.  "You must miss it!" he said.  "Not the weather!" I responded, a little tongue in cheek.  

It is hardly surprising that, after the cold snap, where no one can communicate anything but the weather, everyone goes back to normal!  However, there is, as expected, a heightened degree of discussion around the current political climate.  I make no comment about my own preference, other than I am on the side of common sense!  I would like nothing more than to 'head' the 'common sense' party!  (Well maybe I would campaign for someone, rather than actually run.)  My perpensity for knowing about all things 'American' are so that I can 'hold my own'.  It is easy to sound like an expert, just with an English accent.  (As mentioned many times before!)  It is not that people necessarily agree, as most of the time no one has a clue as to what I am saying, but whether or not I feel it, there is an element of 'confidence'.  I mean no offence to my 'new home' residents, as my husband speaks with authority and confidence.  (Am I digging a deeper hole here?)  One reason I like to know, and 'hold my own', is because eventually, I could be 'called out' or simply ignored, thus smashing the myth that I know all, just because I can speak like the Queen!  Another is simply because I want to know!  "You know more than me!" I am often told by citizens.  My response is that I can also name all fifty states, but do not know all the counties in England!  Those who are native do not necessarily need to know!  I have studied (to a degree) the Constitution, and amendments, both of the US of A and of Texas, and am pretty au fait with their objectives.  To me, it is common sense to want to know the Constitution, and laws of the country where you reside!  Obviously, I do not discuss my opinions with everyone, but there are those on both sides of the fence, with whom I can have a lively debate, and there are those that sit open mouthed at what I know!  However, I digress!  (Would that make me a good politician?)  Suffice it to say, there has been a heightened degree of discussion, and I am, once again, enjoying myself watching the Texas Legislature in session, and seeing what how I can contribute!  I am by no means an 'activist', but there are fewer hoops to jump through to get to speak to those in power!  Obviously, being a possibly founding member of the possible 'common sense' party, (a back bencher at best) I am often very quiet and say not a word!  (I know, unbelievable to consider - not a word!)

Rain poured on Thursday, and then the sun came out and dried up all the rain!  I was sure that not-so incy wincy spider, had made it back to its lair, even with the torrential storm.  I am not sure there will be an end to the other storm, this side of the pond, or the other! The rain was very heavy, and even with my trusted umbrella, I found it hard to stay dry just walking too and from the car!  

A couple of deer frolicked along the path as I took my morning constitutional, and although the buck and two fawns were a little jumpy, the doe was just skeptical.  She looked at me, took up the 'ready to bolt' stance, but did not move.   I simply walked past, bid her a 'good morning' (obviously she understands me, as I talk like the Queen) and watched my every move.  It was a beautiful morning on Friday, and I was looking forward to the weekend.  We had been particularly busy.  I had been discussing the various attributes of the 'rules of civil procedure' with a server from San Antonio, and was quite delighted at his response.  I was thanked by an attorney who had sought my advice!  Sometimes, just sometimes, they do understand me!  

I sent a video to my grandson on Saturday morning.  I could hear, but not see the Woodpecker.  He was pecking away in a tree, somewhere, but could not quite see his location.  My oldest grandson scanned the film, but could not see him.  I then went shopping with my daughter and youngest grandson.  It was a fun trip.  I felt no need to 'police' this weekend, as 'common sense' told me it was not necessary!  We passed the time of day with some of the 'promotors' who as always so delighted to see us!  It's fun to be a celebrity for no other reason that speaking like the Queen.  (I am sure the Queen would have had more attention in the celeb status, but we can 'cash in' on a smaller level)  

Another beautiful Saturday came to an end.  I had made my way around the pool with a chair, as the sun went from one part to the next, and read.  Sunday morning started a bit chilly, but the promise of a sunny afternoon was much appreciated.  I spoke to my sister, and to my son.  My eldest grandson told me where I should have checked for the woodpecker, and was highly delighted with the 'arantul' video!  My middle grandson chimed in for a while before going back to watching the football game that was (of course) far more interesting than Grandma's antics!

A fairly even week is predicted on the temperature front next week, but everything else appears to be pretty tumultuous.  I shall just saunter into the coming week like the arachnid sauntered across the road, hoping to make it to the other side without incident.  What will the first full week of February bring?  Perhaps ......... another story!

BATTON DOWN THE HATCHES

I ventured down to the pool to clean out the skimmers on Sunday afternoon, rubber gloves in my pocket, wrapped up warm.  It seemed a little odd, to be so sheltered from the cold, only to dip my hands into cold water, but as the 'pool monitor', I cannot let a little change in the air from the important tasks!

Waking up on Monday morning to sub zero temperatures was expected.  However, I had planned to take myself out on a shopping spree.  It was the second 'bank' national holiday of the year, if you count the '1st' as the first.  As Edward had pumped up my (almost) flat tyre on Saturday, checked the remaining three, and my husband had made sure that there were no 'leaks', I was prepared to go south to the mall, and just have a leisurely day.  The best laid plans, etc., etc., was once again the phrase of the day!  

Waiting until we reached 'zero', I headed out, with a thick coat, boots, hat, gloves and scarf, and started my journey.  About half way, and passing another 'outdoor' mall, I decided I did not really have to travel all the way down to San Marcos, for just a couple of shops.  It was not the sort of day that would be conducive to walking around, as the 'feels like' was way lower than the 'actual'.  As I tell my neighbours when the ask if I am still swimming in the winter, "I am a bit mad, but not stupid!"  (Although I am sure they all have their opinion on that!)  I turned around and headed back.  

Roadworks have been the bain of the Austinites life for must be almost a decade.  Even the Rodeo clown joked that in a few million years, when the sun burns out, the workers on the Interstate will have to work in the dark!  As I crossed over the main road, and headed  back north, I felt like those contestants in 'Cool Runnings', with the 'slalom' that had been created.  One lane, with tall walls either side, and sharp twists and turns, the road was more like an Olympic challenge than a 'frontage' road for the all important major thoroughfare!  

Stopping at the store that was previously called the Coat Factory, I exited my car, wrapped my scarf tightly around my face, and marched quickly into the shop.  It was not particularly busy, but this was not a surprise.  There was more than the cold weather happening today.  I wondered if the weather had been warmer, if more people would have ventured out and watched the events later on a re-run.  I browsed, picked up, put back, wandered, and eventually checked out.  Everyone was in a very happy mood, and very friendly.  Most people considered that due to the threat of snow, tomorrow would be an additional holiday!

Back on the road, I planned my next stop, and headed north. I called my daughter, as I knew she was going to be home, being that she had used the weekend to 'potty train'.  I was headed her way, and she asked me to pick up a couple of things for her, if I was going to 'pop in'.  The best laid plans, etc., etc., once again came to mind.  I chose not to stop two or three times, but continued along the Interstate.  I came off at the wrong exit, but was quite confident that I was not lost!  I picked up my daughter's wares, and was complimented on my scarf, for the second time.  I chatted with the lady at the check out longer than I spent in the shop, proper!  

Once I had fulfilled all my duties, dropped off the shopping, filled up my car, and quenched my thirst for retail therapy, I headed back home.  Instead of 'Cool Runnings', I was now in 'The Italian Job'!  The epitome of 'Sunday Drivers' were all on the road!  I bobbed and weaved, as another mini followed suit.  We were going home, and a few 'ditherers' were not going to stop us.  I arrived at my house, and suggested to my husband that we make the most of the day, and go to the Cheesecake factory, as my 'free slice' offer was running out at the end of the month.  

As predicted, the restaurant was not busy, but this was probably due to more than the cold and the events of the day, but because it was Monday.  Despite it being a 'bank'/national holiday, Monday is a slow day for Austin restaurants.  As we sat, a group of women were led to a table adjacent to ours.  One was wearing a beautiful white fur jacket, over an equally beautiful white fluffy sweater.  Another wore a fur hat band.  As we left, I commented on how delightful the women looked, and how I especially liked the coat, and hat.  One of them commented that the reason they had come out for dinner was to 'show off' the hat!  I replied, "What better reason" which led to a bit more banter and conversation.  My husband looked on and pondered, as he sometimes does, at how easy it is for women to chat and laugh at what men consider to be 'nothing at all'.  "Love the scarf!" came another compliment!  My scarf, I would hasten to add, was selected because of the length, not the style, but I knitted it several years ago with some 'left over' wool, so it is always an honour to be told it is 'beautiful'.

I woke several times during the night, checking to see if there was any snow.  By seven, the ground was covered with a thin layer, and the temperature was well below freezing. We would be working from home!  However, by ten thirty, the sun had been out for a while, and whilst we had not quite hit 32 degrees Fahrenheit, the roads were clear, and the exit from our unit was dry and ice free!  We headed into the office, and found others there too.  Apparently, the south fared worse than the north of the state.  

As the week progressed, the horror of the cold started to subside.  We were heading out of the winter (which had lasted all of a week) and were going back to cool (some would think warm) temperatures, which were more tolerable!  Wearing my coats, hats, boots, scarves and gloves, I wonder at why this is such a problem for the locals!  Walking from the house to the car, from the car to the office and back again, is not an arctic trip to find the north pole!  Captain Oates had it worse!  (Off the soapbox!)

Our Annual General Meeting was held for our association and we shuffled into a small meeting room in the local library.  Coffee and pastries were provided, and we waited for everyone (who were going to show up) to show up!  It ran for longer than I had expected, and when it was over, we headed out to go to the office, where Samantha was going to meet me and take me shopping. However, she was sitting in the car park of the library and we went on our way!  It was now about fifty degrees and dry.  People were venturing out! 

The shops were very busy.  The warehouses were extremely busy.  I was in rather a boisterous mood!  Having sat for a couple of hours, I was feeling a little 'stir crazy'.  I am not sure what it was that made me feel as if I had to 'police' the queues, but it was as if I was drunk with freedom!  "These poeple have been waiting for a long time!" I said to a couple that came from the side.  Apologies were forthcoming.  Each stand that had something rather sumptuous, there was a queue, and each time, there was a queue jumper!  As we continued around, Samantha, who presumably also felt that freedom, was telling people, "I am sorry for my mother's behaviour!"  By the time we left the stores, many people were laughing!  I think they may have thought they were on a reality television show.  "You queue jump when you drive!" I was reminded.  "I can't help those who will not help themselves", I responded!

It rained Sunday morning, and I took an umbrella out for my post breakfast walk.  Today I plan to put  my plants back out into the garden!  They have been inside for a week, and it is time to reintroduce them to the elements.  They have definitely thrived inside, but ultimately, they need to go back to their natural habitat!  Drizzle has stopped me being able to sit and read outside, but I do not plan to use my day unwisely.  Whether I succeed in my 'best laid plans', will be something to be revealed, in......... another story!

NEW LOOK!

January!   Despite having been historically, politically, and devastatingly eventful,  each adverb being mutually exclusive, is usually, personally uneventful. 'Happy new year' turns into 'new year'. It is when I reduce my posts to 'the weather' that I know, things are really, uneventful, but I will try to lighten, or brighten your January!

After spending longer than I intended, reading, a couple of weeks ago, I returned to 'weatherproof' my plants.  It had been an interesting afternoon, with the wind blowing gustily, and me thinking, "Now is the time to pack up", only for the gusts to stop and the sun to shine warmly.  Edging my way up, I finally ran out of patio, and the sun was no longer available.  

At three in the afternoon, it was too early to cover the plants.  The sun was still quite prominent in my sunroom and it was still very warm.  I arranged, and rearranged all the pots, to keep them in 'groups' and emptied some pots that held dirt and weeds.  Finally, I was able to cover the pots and put the special protective material my daughter had bought me (a few years ago) over the little groups I had made.  It was all very organised!

Bringing my Maringa plant inside, was my decision.  Edgar is now quite tall, and despite having very few leaves, would not have liked the drop in temperature, and it would have been impossible to cover him.  Maneuvering him to a place that would accommodate his height, I headed back out to make sure everything was secure.  When I left my patio, it was lovely and warm, with a mild breeze.

Around ten in the evening, we heard the not too subtle wrath of the wind.  Our doors did not rattle as they had before they were replaced, but we knew it was a good time to be inside!  The temperature had started to drop and we were promised a sub-zero start to the morning.

Although there did not seem to be a great deal of damage to our community, our 'Luminaires' would another Christmas not see!  Those on my front porch were ripped to shreds.  Those across the road had suffered the same fate.  Although I did not think the lights would be taken down immediately after 'twelfth night', they would not have been removed before Monday morning.  I chose not to take an 'al fresco' exercise, as the 'chill factor' was (reportedly)  dangerously low.  However, I did have to venture out.  

Thankfully, my ability to 'dress for the part' was in tact!  Coat, hat, gloves, scarf, boots and a quick hop, skip and jump to the car, saw me on my way.  The roads were surprisingly busy, considering the temperature, and work was not slow.

The week, although eventful in many ways, historically, politically, and devastatingly,  each adverb being mutually exclusive, was uneventful for me.  I plodded through, catching pieces of news, as each of the individual events unfolded, and watched the weather forecast to determine the thickness of coat, or height of boot, and the send of hibernation for my plants. It was 'new year'.  Was I happy?  I was not unhappy!

Living most of my life (or two thirds so far) in a country that has four seasons, suffers from damp and cold, (snow on occasions,) and summers that (generally) do not exceed the century in heat, it seems at times, a little strange to heed the advice of those who tell me not to venture out for a morning walk if it is too cold.  Defining 'too cold' can be a challenge.  If my husband wears shoes and socks, as opposed to flip flops, I know he would consider it inadvisable to go for a walk!  However, I chose to accept that it may have been a good idea.  

Although there appears to be not so much emphasis on the twelve days of Christmas, as the day after sees shelves being stripped of tinsel and baubles, and replaced with hearts and pink and red candy, the second week of the year certainly did not spark any evidence that the general population was ready to head straight into the 'love' season.  It was cold!  Austinites do not do cold!  

We entered another week, and the threat of a winter storm for the following weekend was being strongly hinted.  Despite my experience the previous weekend, when you wear short sleeves and the sun is beaming down, making everywhere quite warm, it is still almost impossible to imagine, but imagine I did.  Although my plants had survived a couple of sub zero nights, they would not survive the following weekend.  

The covers came off my plants, as the temperatures rose, although I noticed that some of my neighbours kept theirs secured.  I am still amused as how I find sixty degrees to be chilly, and require a jacket, if not a coat.  I wonder if I would acclimatise back so quickly!  I think it would be a case of having to do so!  

Our Christmas lights were all removed, and all vestige of the holiday season disappeared along with them. The last to go were those at the entrance to our little community, and whilst it is helpful to have them announcing the usually almost hidden ingress, it is also nice to be slightly obscure!  No-one takes a wrong turn into our complex, as if you don't know it is here, it is not here!  "Perhaps we need a sign, or an arrow" has been thrown around, "Perhaps not!" has been the response.  However, Christmas, or at least the Yuletide season was over, and the season of goodwill was replaced with the season of ambivalence.  Where is the 'happy'?

January is such an unpredictable month.  Sometimes warm, sometimes cold, always slightly underwhelming.  After the build up to the end of the year, the 'happy new year' has definitely lost the 'happy' somewhere along the way.  It is not that people are miserable, per say, but it is like they all have a hangover and are slightly fragile!

"How was your positively awful surprise trip to Las Vegas?" I asked our office neighbour.  He had appeared in the corridor the day before New Years Eve, and announced, with a sense of woe and shoulder weight, that his wife had arranged a surprise visit to the place that is often referred to as 'Sin City'.  "Oh no!" I had responded, "How terrible for you!  I couldn't think of anything worse!"  His response to my question was, at first, a look of intrigue, but then he (presumably) remembered his remark and continued, "It was....awesome!"  He was now back at work, and (presumably) the 'happy' new year, to him was just the 'new year'.

As the week progressed, the temperatures rose, and so did the cheer!  A little bit of sunshine manages to change everyone's mood.  

By the time the weekend arrived, again, coats were left in the cupboard.  Although I wore a jacket on Saturday morning, I left it in the car by the time I was at the store.  A beautiful afternoon followed, and I caught a few rays whilst reading.  I then went about preparing for the cold, again, and once again, I wondered at the heat and glorious sunshine.  In came the plants.  Covering them was not an option.  If the temperatures were going to drop to the sub zero numbers that had been reported, a mere sheet, or even a more substantial shelter would not be enough.  I covered my floor with sheets and boxes, and made my kitchen into a temporary greenhouse!  Edgar remained on the stairs, oblivious to his peers predicament!  

We ventured out for dinner, and by the time we returned, the wind had picked up and as the sun disappeared, so did the heat.  By Sunday morning, the sub zero temperatures had returned.  Welcome to Texas!  Y'all!!  

I did not venture out first thing, and take care of the skimmers as is my usual job on a weekend morning.  January!  What happens in January!  Obviously, a lot!  Politically, historically and devastatingly, eventful it may be, but for me, it has been 'new year', and 'January'!  

We are heading into the 'real' winter of the season, and the 'new year' has become 'anxious new year', or perhaps 'apprehensive new year'.  Happy has not been a word that has been passed around!  This coming week will definitely be eventful!  Politically, historically....... Monday is a national holiday.  It will be below freezing.  How will this phenomenon play out in my life?  Perhaps ..... another story!

YEAR AFTER YEAR!

The Christmas week was, thankfully, uneventful.  We finished work on Monday evening and I thought we might take the opportunity to do something fun on the Tuesday, but despite having plans to make the most of my time off, we sat and watched a couple of films, ate left overs and had a relaxing Christmas Eve.  

Two years ago, I planned to host an afternoon tea, in honour of my youngest grandson, but due to circumstances beyond my control, it did not happen.  After much deliberation, I decided that the Sunday between Christmas and New Year would be a wonderful time.  My motives were not all together pure!  As we perceived work would be quiet on Thursday and Friday, I thought I would have some time off to prepare, (pure enough,) but I had considered a lot of neighbours may be out of town for the holidays.  (Not so pure!)   Those who are normally out of town answered first, with a resounding, "How wonderful.  We will be there", or "Yes, I have my family coming, we would love to come!"  Not to mention my accosting a couple of neighbours as they drove to and from the complex!  By the time most of the replies had been received, I was looking at about thirty five mouths to feed!  

Christmas morning was spent drinking coffee and organising my living room to allow the best use of space, and bringing in folding chairs from my shed, conscious of the time as we had dinner reservations at two, in deep South Austin.  

Lunch was fun!  It was not perfect, as Dana's dinner was inedible and the little one's order came up wrong, twice, resulting in us canceling his whole meal, as he had been dining off everyone's plate before the second attempt was rejected.  However, the atmosphere was good,  Dana was given an alternative, the company was pleasant and we were not in a hurry.  I took my grandson outside to feed the ducks, whilst his mum ate her dinner in peace.  We all came back to my house, and watched Teddy open his presents.  I had made the decision to only half wrap them, as the element of surprise tends to get lost on a two year old if there is too much work involved!

Thankfully, our prediction was correct.  Work was not completely inactive, but it was slow.  I started to prepare for the weekend.  Mince pies and Bakewell tarts.  As my numbers were rising each day, (or appeared to be,) I had been rethinking my menu.  Of course, an English Afternoon 'High' tea must have a Victoria Sponge.  Finger sandwiches are probably the next 'staple', and of course, scones! It had started!

Much of Friday was spent making trifles and chocolate mousse.  My theory (which turned out to be slightly askew) was that I had to make one of everything for everyone whom I thought was going to attend. That meant thirty odd individual desserts.  My biggest problem was fitting everything into the fridge.  My kitchen took some time to clear up, but by the time Dana came home, it looked as if I had not done much of anything all day!

I had decided that, despite having a lot to prepare, I really should take some 'time out' and go to see my grandson at his 'activity' centre on Friday morning.  It is a structured session where the little ones 'train'.  It is a good way to get them to listen, whilst having fun and performing and learning some developmental skills.  Each week prizes are given to those who performed very well, and to 'encouraging' parents.  I had told my daughter (somewhat tongue in cheek) that it was 'fixed' as I was sure she should win every week!  No one was more encouraging, supporting and active than me on that morning.  I crawled like a bear, roared like a lion, climbed like a possum, leapt like a frog, jumped like a kangeroo, and ran around the obstacle course continually for forty five minutes.  I called to all the kids to let them know they could "do it!" and took part in all the events.  "When they say 'competition', they don't really mean it the way you think", said my daughter, but it was too late.  The tug of war was going to be won by my grandchild's team, and it was!  However, when it came to the prizes, I was overlooked! The person who won the 'most encouraging' called out a couple of times, and barely leaned over!  My daughter and I left, knowing we had really won, and did not need a prize!  "It is fixed!" I told her before we burst into laughter!  Of course, in reality, I did not need to win, but everyone who knows me would have found my participation, and subsequent loss, highly amusing!

After shopping on Saturday, taking my step-daughter out for lunch, and baking a couple of cakes, I finally called it a day, and wrote my list for the following day!  

I spoke to my sister on Sunday morning, in the safety of my kitchen.  She was unconvinced that I would be ready by four!  Samantha came over at three, and helped me organise the space.  We had tea and coffee on the trolley, a St. Clements juice in a glass tree shaped water dispenser, with tea cups and saucers on hand!

The sweet and savory tables (at the risk of being boring by listing the goodies) had four plates of different finger sandwiches, salmon rissoles, individual bite size quiches and of course, sausage rolls.  A lemon drizzle cake, coffee cake, individual trifles and chocolate mousses, mince pies, Bakewell tarts, a chocolate Swiss roll, gingerbread, scones (with cream and jam), and the piece de resistance, the Victoria Sponge.  

A success it was!  The young man whom I accosted at the beginning of the week turned up with his wife, and a couple who said they had tickets to a basketball game came on later.  A few cried off sick, and a couple did not turn up, but there were about twenty (or so) who turned up, and thankfully took some plates of food home!  I was delighted it had gone so well!

The next week started and we were one of the few places open on Monday.  Tuesday started early, and I spent most of my home time getting my 'downstairs' back to normal!  Our maintenance man was still away form work, returning after the new year, so I was taking care of the skimmers.  After being totally satisfied that everything had been put away and returned to its place, I went down to take care of the pool.  As well as emptying the pales, I took the brush down from its rack, and brushed the filters on the bottom.  My water bottle slipped out of my pocket, where I had put it whilst doing my 'job'.  I stretched out to stop it falling in, at the same time, twisting just enough to allow my phone, which was in the other pocket, to fall out, and head down to the bottom of the pool!  I stood for a second and shouted, "No!"  I then tried to brush it to the side, but it was in (probably) the only actual 'dip' in the surface.  Taking off my coat, and sweatshirt, shoes and socks, wearing what looked like a swimsuit and t-shirt, I dived into the water.  It really was the only way.  However, I had not considered how cold it would be, and could not hold my breath for as long as I thought.  I had to come to the surface to take a breath, and saw that the phone had been moved out of the 'dip'.  I cajoled it to the shallow end, and went in again to retrieve it.  Never again will I doubt the benefits of a cold plunge!  

Relating the story, once at work, I started to laugh.  Thankfully, only one person saw me, and she thought I was there in my costume, swimming.  What a way to end the year!

Our new year was uneventful, and the rest of the week continued with us babysitting on Friday night enjoying a couple of days off at the weekend.  The weather was pleasant and it was warm on Sunday morning.  However, a cold front was promised.  Temperatures threatened to drop below zero overnight and my plants needed to be covered and protected.  

Once again, happy, and healthy new year to all!  I do not have any resolutions.  I just hope that it will be eventful in good ways and uneventful in bad!  Whatever your new year brings, mine will probably bring ........... another story!