NICELY DONE!

Having been 'rained out' twice, I was unable to return to my 'happy place' last Sunday.  I had started to write several times, but as time and tide waits for no man, as the saying goes, time and tide waiteth not for me!  Saturday was beautiful, and then it wasn't.  I waited for our chairman to finish swimming and then I swam myself.  We both sat, in silence, read our respective books, both looked up at the sky as the wind started, went back to our books, looked up again, looked at each other, and decided it was time to go!  The shower was heavy, but short.  I returned to the pool, for a while.  Sunday, I decided to 'wait it out!  I heard the wind, watched distant trees start to flail, and the skies darken.  Still, I sat, until I was hit in the face by a small twig.  I fought my way through the invisible barrier of heavy breeze and by the time I reached my house, I was almost toppled over by the force of the elements!  As I stepped inside, the rain started.  I watched for a while and decided this was not going to end.  I am sure a few Father's Day plans were thwarted!   By sunset, there were no clouds, the rain had departed, and the evening was beautiful. Again, welcome to Texas, y'all!

The winds had been swirling. and tornadoes have been reported near and far.  The debris left from the storms has seemed out of place with a beautiful sunny day following a storm. The speed at which the breeze turns into tempest is rather frightening.  As a Londoner, I was used to rain, heavy rain, even the odd 'great storm' but it all appeared to come in order.  Perhaps I have 'acclimatised'!

Walking down to take a swim on Monday, I had to smile to myself.  As we are approaching the anniversary of our 'ex-patriation', I still marvel at the differences.  There was I, walking along the road, albeit in our community, but in effect no different to a cul-de-sac, or perhaps private road, wearing atop my swimwear, a beach towel around my waist and a toweling robe.  Water bottle and phone in my pocket, and sliders on my feet, cap pulled down over my brow, I stroll along looking like I have just got out of bed, and quite frankly, a mess!  In what alternative universe would this be 'okay'! Actually, in MY alternative universe!  I have never received an enquiring look, or a confused stare, just a "Hey, how ya doin?" or more often than not, "Is the water warm enough for the rest of us?"  Perhaps they just think it is the eccentric English woman being herself, or perhaps it is because this is Austin and people go to the supermarket in their pyjamas!  

Much as I have never really tried to be inclusive, I have never gone out of my way to be alternative.  It just happened.  Perhaps I was actually made for this place!  The dress code is unique!  Looking reasonably normal in my toweling robe, beach towel, cap and sliders, contrasted with looking a little out of place in my business attire, heels and trilby!  

Although I have stopped 'playing' with telemarketers, for the most part, the female that was rather dramatic caught me at the wrong time.  "We see you have listed your house for sale, and have people looking in your area.  How much would you like?" she lied!  When I am concentrating on something else, and am interrupted by a spam phone call, the sarcastic bent within appears to be at its strongest.  "Four million dollars!" I replied.  I almost said 'pounds' but caught myself just in time.  After a brief pause, no doubt to collect herself, she asked how many bedrooms and bathrooms my house contained.  "Three", I responded, still concentrating on an email I had to send, explaining a rather unique set of instructions on an order we had received from a court.  "Three bedrooms and three bathrooms?" came the question, hesitantly.  "Yes", I responded, making sure the email was succinct.  "What makes you think you can ask that price?  Have you had it appraised? Did someone tell you that is what your property is worth?"  She appeared to take this personally!  I could hear the contempt in her voice.  "You asked me what I wanted, and that was my answer", I said, perhaps more sharply than intended.  Of course, I heard the click of the call's demise from her end!

The delivery man stopped by with a rather fat envelope.  He had just returned from a trip to Italy and Switzerland and was ready to tell me about his experience at Heathrow.  "We had a long layover but our plane was delayed so we had to rush through.  When I told the lady we had to catch a connecting flight, she said that everyone had to catch a flight!"  It appears they did catch their connection, by the 'skin of their teeth' but he was quite shocked at the lack of sympathy, and general courtesy.  I had to smile.  Most of the officials I have encountered coming into the USA have been polite, some a little sharp, but always courteous.  Some have been friendlier than others, and some more personable, but upon arriving home, it is all 'business'.  "Where have you flown from?"  Stamp; stamp.  "Next!"  I have often wanted to stand and say, "And a very good morning to you too.  Have a nice day!"  I think, perhaps, they have put up with so much abuse over the years, the less they say the better!  However, our delivery man was not just up in arms about the abruptness of the Brits.  He said the Italians were actually rude!  I smiled again. "Were they rude or did they just sound abrupt?" I questioned.  I remembered a friend who was married to an Italian.  Her mother thought they were always fighting, but they were merely talking. "Their language is passionate, and it comes out in many different ways.  "No.  They were rude!" he decided.  "So a good trip all round then?" The sarcastic bent on auto-pilot.  "Amazing.  It was fantastic!" he responded.  A bit of good news!

The Brit struck again!  I still have no idea what causes the phenomenon that causes people to sit up and listen!  Over and over, we (the Brits) are reminded about 4th July, and the independence gained from (broadly speaking) my ancestors.  Yet, the accent seems to draw so much attention.  Back to the story.  Our mail box at the office is, once again, broken.  This means that we have to go to the post office to collect our mail.  We had no idea it was broken.  We assumed the postman had put our letter into a neighbouring box.  It happens! The first we heard of it was when the mail carrier came into my office with a stack of post.  "The box is broken.  I have told them about it and hopefully it will be fixed, but until then, I am going to bring your mail in everyday".  I thanked him, remarked how kind it was of him to do so, and was rather profusely grateful for the continued lobbying for our box to be repaired.  However, on the days our postman does not work, we do not get our post!  The one draw back is that sometimes, just sometimes, we receive other people's post in our pile.  Of course, being neighbourly, I become the sub-postman!  "Come in.  You don't have to knock!" said our office neighbour.  Sitting at his desk, the proprietor was training a new employee.  "This is the nicest person in the world!" he said, introducing me to the trainee.  I rolled my eyes, and smiled.  Flattery would get him everywhere!  "Why d'ya knock?" he asked.  "Because I am the nicest person in the world!" I responded.  I gave him his mail.  "Where d'ya get this?" he asked.  "Is the box fixed?"  I didn't realise that the postman did not deliver to everyone. "He drops off your mail?  Everyday?  You don't have to go to the post office?  How d'ya do that?"  he raged.  "I am the nicest person in the world!" I stated!   The trainee was a little bemused by the interaction.  I went on my way, to the marketing agency downstairs, as well as the attorney's.  Not all of us are like the custom officials!  Perhaps it is the large smile, perhaps it is the accent, perhaps it is the classic dress, high heels and hat!

Our busy week came to an end, and I was looking forward to being able to finish my book.  The Grapes of Wrath had been on my reading list for some time.  I was vaguely familiar with the storyline, but had no idea how much it would 'draw me in'.  Although it is a very depressing tale, it is full of people taking care of each other, as well as others being horrific to their fellow man, I found it hard to put the paperback down!  However, I have had a lot of things happen to prevent this.  I have made it a policy only to read outside, otherwise I think I would spend every spare moment with my nose in a book, so the weather has prevented me on one count.  Being sociable and chatting to neighbours by the pool has been another aspect.  Then, the strangest reason of all.  My book was misprinted!  I got two thirds of the way through, read chapter 22, turned the page, and was back to chapter eleven!  About seventy pages were missing!  Thankfully, our local 'half price books' had another copy and I was able to complete this devastating story!  The ending left me rather numb, and convinced me to look for a lighter theme before heading back into the classics!

The rain stayed away, for the most part, over the weekend.  A few sprinkles here and there hit my umbrella, but nothing was as fierce as last weekend.  Another weekend came to an end, and time trudges on!  Perhaps I shall have something very mysterious and interesting to write in .... another story!

IT NEVER RAINS...IT POURS!

Perhaps I should start at the beginning, (a very good place to start,) but to know where is the 'beginning', becomes a little hazy.  I have started this post three times, but have not had the time to finish.  The beginning.  Was it two or three weeks ago?  I am unsure.  Let me take you back to a little over a month ago, and work forward from there, although what happened a little over a month ago was years in the 'planning' stage!  

Some years ago, we talked, vaguely talked, about having our floors replaced.  (I didn't say it was exciting!) The carpet was sent by Martha Washington, with the original kitchen, when she moved into the White House.  "Drop it somewhere in that place called Tejas!" Her orders were adhered to, and around the said items, they built my condo!  About six weeks ago, we decided to take the proverbial bull by the horns, and get a quote!  To make a very, very long story as short as possible, on a Sunday morning, a very nice man came, showed us some options, measured up, gave us a price, assured us that the large items would not cause a problem, took a deposit, gave us a date, and left!  The 'manager' called on the Tuesday to say that although we had arranged for the work to start in two weeks, they could start the following day!  My husband seemed quite thrilled with the idea.  Me, not so much!  "Remove all your fragile stuff, things from cabinets, anything breakable.  Yes, the lamps would be good to be taken out."  It was the warning, "It is going to be like a construction site", that prompted me to move anything and everything removable.  I would not have time to get everything upstairs in an evening.  We left the dates as they were, and double, and triple checked that they would be able to move the heavy items.

In between household chores, and work, I managed to take all my 'breakables', pictures, pantry contents (that is part of the floor) and general bric-a-brac, upstairs and out of harm's way.  I set up a table in Samantha's room, next to the bunk beds, after storing some glasses on the chest of draws.  Upstairs was an obstacle course, but we weaved our way through.  The night before the work was due to start, I took the remaining few things upstairs, and hoped I hadn't forgotten anything.  

Of course, when the two men arrived to take a look at the area, they stood over the pool table and shook their heads.  "Can't move this", the foreman said.  "Yes you can". said I.  We went back and forth for a while, and I remembered my ex-husband's party piece mimicking an English plumber.  Sharp intake of breath, shaking of the head, and a very long, "Nawwwww" emitting from his lips.  After calling their manager, they reluctantly agreed to go ahead. "Sign here", said the foreman.  "What am I signing for?" said I.  He told me I was just agreeing to the work.  On insisting I would like to actually read what I was signing for, he became quite offended, and flipped back a page on his iPad, before quickly flipping forward for me to sign.  I flipped it back, which basically set the tone for the next hour.  I was a trouble maker!  My son-in-law came to sit in the house while I went off to work.  They were due to lift the tiles in the kitchen and replace any boards in the living room that needed to be replaced.  An hour had not yet passed when I received a call.  They had 'downed tools'.  I came home to find the foreman walking too and fro.  "Asbestos!" he called out.  "No, it is not!" said I.  All the units had been tested besides the fact the floor was laid after the ban.  (The carpets were a different matter.)  "It is dangerous!" he retorted.  "I know!  I completed two, not one but two lots of asbestos training", said I, leaving out the fact it was about thirty five years ago, but some things remain clear as day!  Enter Raul, who spoke the foreman's native language.  "What is wrong with you?  You know it is not Asbestos.  Don't you want to work?"  I stood and pretended I understood every word he said, and the foreman became rather sheepish.  His workmen, however, had been spooked.  We overcame the problem  by them putting down a layer of cement in the 'affected' areas, and they would put the floors over that when it was dry.  This led to another problem.  My dining and kitchen area, and my front porch/hallway, would be slightly raised.  It would be okay!  

The 'electrics' for my unit were what gave Nicola Tesla his first thought when he was a toddler.  Yes, they are that old, and have really needed replacing for a very long time!  I could not use my microwave and kettle at the same time, due to the excess surge it put on the power.  When the units were built, no one had an inkling of how much electricity would be used in the future, nor the strength of machine, or power needed.  "The electrics have blown", said my son-in-law, who had predicted a nice peaceful day, allowing him to get some things done.  "All you have to do is be there" I told him.  My husband came home, called an electrician, and within the hour they were at the house.  "They banned this stuff in 1980!" my husband repeated to me.  "They are city approved, and will come and change out all the sockets and light switches on Monday.  Then they will fit a new fuse box."  Of course, the expense would be down to us.  We had, vaguely, talked about having the wiring replaced over the years, but we could live with using the microwave and kettle at different times!  Monday!  They would come back first thing Monday!  No problem!  Only there was a problem.  I now had to wait for the floor people to finish, so I could bring everything back downstairs, as there was no clear path to the sockets or light switches.  Remember the table I put up in Samantha's room?  I took my husband into the room.  He looked at all the objects on, and under the table.  "How do you get to the chest of drawers?" I posed.  "You can't" he said.  "Well, that is where the socket is!" I replied.  "Also, there is one behind the bunk beds".  The electricians would have to make two journeys!  

Arriving home on the Friday was bitter sweet.  The floors looked magnificent, but I could not restore my living room 'bit by bit'.  However, the raised areas in the dining and kitchen area, and small hallway had created a wonderful feature!  I now had a sunken living room!  Admittedly, we were only talking an inch, perhaps less, but it is a step down and that was enough for me!  My excitement was genuine.  

My weekend was spent cleaning floors, moving furniture and getting the sockets accessible.  On Monday morning, my usual household chores were set aside, as it was impossible to do them properly, and I set about removing things from the second bedroom.  By the time the electricians came, I was ready for a battle!  If I had one 'sharp intake of breath', or a single shake of the head, I was ready with fists up!  I showed them the bunk beds, which I had manage to move out a tad, and the other sockets which were almost accessible.  "No problem, ma'am" said the main man.  I retired without a punch being thrown!  Metaphorical punch, of course!

I forgot to mention the other 'fun' aspect.  Bad things happen in threes my mother always said.  Superstitious as she was, I am not, but it just happened that way. When the electrics were blown out, my air conditioner went on the 'fritz'.  "That's odd" said the technician, for the fourth time.  "Please, stop saying that!" said I.  He could not work out the dynamics.  It would appear that the people who fitted the unit hooked it up to the old drain system, which in itself is not a problem, but it would have been better to got 'right' instead of left.  He got it going, and then said, "That's odd...sorry!"  It appears, the reason my thermostat had thrown everything out of whack over the last decade, is because someone had wired it wrong!  I can't even blame Martha W. for this one!  If ever we had a power cut, it would take some careful pandering to get it to work properly, and because it appeared to be working if ever we had a technician out to 'service' or check it out, it had seemed to be working.  He put on a new thermostat, and within twenty minutes, not hours, the temperature was down to the required setting!  

At last!  Everything was fixed.  Everything apart from the cars! Did I mention?  No I didn't!  Both cars had a/c problems!  They are both fixed!  Dana took his to our usual mechanic.  I had to take mine to a 'specialist'.  We found a very nice family owned business that took care of my 'old lady'.  I was told what was wrong and how it was to be fixed.  Go on.... ask me anything, anything about how air conditioning works in a car.  Anything!  I could not perform the actual task, but I could instruct the mechanic!

The holiday weekend was spent putting things back.  The rest of the week was spent putting things back.  This weekend was spent putting things back.  Admittedly, I have not been as judicious as I might, and have taken some 'me' time.  The obstacle course is less daunting, and the pantry has been put back together, of a fashion!  Most of the things not 'put back' are items I am considering throwing/donating/destroying!  

In essence, that is why I have not finished this post, until now.  Did I mention the storm?  No I didn't.  A real storm, not simply the one in a tea cup that we endured over the last few weeks.   That will have to be in ...... another story!

WHO AM I?!!

Despite the threat of raging storms, we have not seen a lot of rain, per se, or should I say per capita! The beautiful, if somewhat ferocious, light shows we have witnessed, as others have undergone tempests causing flooding and tremendous damage, have rarely led to precipitation, although we have encountered a few cloudbursts, and even prolonged periods of splosh!  Thankfully, for me, I have been able to resume outdoor exercise and continue to be the eccentric who defies the elements.  Little do they know!

Being regarded as 'a local' has been a little bit of a habit as of late, and being asked for 'recommendations' is always a little unnerving.  I am considered the 'wise sage' when it comes to entertainment in the city, (I shall leave out the word 'old',) as apparently, I have ventured to places of which others know not!  

I do rather enjoy when people move from another state and I can greet them with the "Welcome to Texas" slogan.  We are a proud state, independent and for the most part, a little 'old fashioned'.  I may be chastised for that last comment, but there are still the quaint 'southern' ways that make it special.  Again, I may be chastised for that last comment, and asked to explain 'quaint' together with 'southern' as history does not always depict the 'south' for being 'quaint' or, indeed pleasant.  However, I digress and do not intent going on a snowballs trip down a somewhat awkward memory lane.  (I may be chastised for that last comment, using the work 'awkward'....!)

Old fashioned is a word I would use when referring to 'politeness'.  Despite the younger, younger generation's inability to do anything without their 'handheld' devices, (the 'z' rather than the 'x',) there are still enough older folk to remind me that this was a 'door opening' community.  There is still an element of 'Stepford' about Austin, and politeness is in abundance in local stores and communities.  I held the door for a gentleman only last week.  He immediately took over the task of holding told me that it was a "gentleman's job to hold the door for a lady!"  Little does he know!  "Why thank you Sir", or "Howdy, ma'am" still tickles me.  The late, great Dennis Waterman (English actor) once gave an interview, and said how foreigners perceived the English as either speaking with a plumb in their mouth, or a cockney. (I may have misquoted, but it was the gist of the sentence.)  There was no in between.  When I came to Texas, I realised that people really did talk like they did in the movies!  "Well, I do declare!" was a phrase used by one of my husband's friends, that made me laugh over and over again.  However, once again, the rabbit trail has been slipped down, and I am so 'off piste' it will take more than one pair of skis to get me back along the trail!  

Where was I?  Indeed!  "Welcome to Texas".  I do not have the drawl, and do not add the 'y'all' as a suffix, but I still enjoy it when I can use the phrase.  Unlike the "Hey! How y'all doin'.", when walking into a shop, and knowing that it is rhetorical, "Welcome to Texas" has a certain affectionate quality.  

Bringing Europe to Texas is not a new thing.  New Braunfels, which is about an hour away from me, is renowned for its German influence, and with many people from south of the border, Spanish and Portuguese bent, albeit somewhat modified.  Although I have attempted to debunk the myth that English food is bland and boring, I do tend to venture further afield, bringing Greece to the table!  My moussaka, made with Indian eggplant, and parmesan cheese, was perhaps not quite as authentic as an Athens' taverna, but did taste original.  A dessert recipe came from an old 'simply take' card that had been produced by Sainsbury's supermarket, which I had been using as a bookmark.  Despite being the American staple, apple pie, in any shape or form, can claim British nationality!  Taking green bean casserole and sweet potato pie back to England, gives reason to announce, "Welcome to Texas", but does not give the real feel of the people!  Occasionally, very occasionally, I go Tex-Mex, to see the reaction of the natural born natives of this state!

Warmer and warmer it got during the week.  Getting dressed for work has always been a 'thing' for me.  If I am dressed for work, my mind is dressed for work.  Imagine my surprise, when the Texan on the news programme that was playing, said the very same thing!  Apparently, there has been a move to make 'casual' the norm, as the younger generation are more 'comfortable' and able to work better if they are in more 'flexible' clothing.  The presenter claimed that he could not imagining not 'dressing' for work.  A suit and tie is the norm for him, and I was delighted!  

"Do you have a card?  I am an attorney and need to serve someone", said the less than well dressed man who entered my office.  Of course, there was no reason to suspect him not being an attorney, as a dark pair of jeans and white button up shirt, perhaps with a 'conventional' tie, perhaps with a 'bolo' tie.  He was far more casual, but again, in your own office, you wear what you want!  Perhaps 'doing research' calls for casual clothes, despite 'digging' not being in dirt with a shovel!  I digress!  I gave the man a card and did not expect to see him again.  I was wrong!

The office opposite ours has not had a 'full time' occupant since the speech therapist vacated.  A new company sign was put on the door, and someone did appear to move in, but they never appeared to take up full occupancy. We wondered whether they worked at night, but there did not seem to be any sign of movement.  As stealthily as they moved in, (despite my managing to catch them when they first entered the building,) they moved out!  'In and out like a flash', would be tortoise like compared to how they came and went!  This week someone new appeared to move in.  I was more than a little curious.  Nosey is such a misunderstood adjective!  We thought, at first, it might be the 'construction' company that have taken three offices in our building.  However, there was a dog laying on the carpet, and no one in the 'construction' group appear to have canines.  Someone left, in a hurry, and I looked out of the window to try and get a glimpse.  

I decided that they were nothing to do with the construction company.  The man whom I saw comingback in to the office looked more like the English actor Bill Bailey, and resembled a sixties hippy rather than someone who would be putting down irrigation pipes.  Not that I have anything against sixties hippies, as I would have loved to have been part of that scene, minus the contraband!  The freedom aspect always seemed to be so appealing.  Of course, I think I may have been slightly disillusioned!  I grabbed our mailbox key and exited the office.  Stealth was not my forte.  In the furor to see the new person, I rushed out so fast that I nearly knocked the poor man over.  Of course, not by design, but perfectly coordinated, nonetheless, I apologised and introduced myself.  "Welcome to the building", I said, wondering why I say that, as it makes it sound like we are all spying on each other. when in actual fact, it is only me who is doing the spying!  Spying?  Perhaps 'curiousing' would be a good, if not made up, word!  Suddenly, out of the back office, a figure emerged.  It was too late.  He had been spied upon!  It was the 'attorney'.  "Hello" I said with great gusto.  "Hi." he replied, looking as if I recognised him.  "Again", I confirmed his suspicions.  "Yeah, we met.  She has such a cool office", he recovered.  Is that the best he could do?  Perhaps he is an attorney.  Perhaps he does think I have a cool office.  However, I am still doubtful.  The non-construction guy introduced himself and told me that they are a tech company, and deal in something I did not catch.  Perhaps it was hippy slang!  He seemed very pleasant and I told him that we are always here and if they need anything....(Like what?  ridiculous statement number two....and as you know doubt know, I probably have many more lined up!)  

The eccentric Englishwoman hobbled out in her stilettoes and made it to and from the postbox without encountering anymore prey!  

The week continued, with rain here and there.  We were frantically busy/  In fact we broke record after record in 'numbers' but that was probably due to one of our clients being very behind and finding someone to help 'catch up'.  Grant won tickets to a hockey game, but there were only four, and no one else won so I let him distribute them fairly.  Samantha and Edward are now a threesome with the baby so I bowed out.  

After a swim, I sat and listened to the thunder rolling on Saturday.  It got closer, and closer until the wind was quite ferocious, and the skies dark grey.  I gave in and headed home.  Thankfully, I have an umbrella and it was used!  I returned an hour later when the skies were blue and rain appeared to be a thing of the past.  However, the thunder still rumbled well into the evening.  

American Mothers Day is upon us, which means we are almost half way through May!  It seems impossible, but here we are!  The wind is still quite fierce but I think it will be warm enough for me to have a couple of hours respite in my preferred location!  Hopefully it wont be too busy.  

We actually have a few things planned for next week, plans that are set in stone as much as plans can be set in stone!  Never say never!  I shall report more in .......... another story!

IN COGNITO!

The family that came down to the pool on Sunday were not as pleasantly surprised as they thought they might be,  Two little girls and their dad entered the area, with expectations of a wonderfully fun afternoon in the water, but soon realised the temperature was not conducive to just standing around and splashing! Despite the beautiful sunshine, the month was still March!  Seventy four may be pleasant to sit, or walk, but as a liquid temperature, it is not particularly warm!  Having had my swim, I was now ready to get warm, again!  I left them to it, with the girls telling their father that they wanted to go home!

Once the week started, there was no time for frivolity.  The maintenance man at our office was called to fix a light.  He is a very pleasant chap, with whom I share a fascination of the younger generation and their ability to understand English, be it American or Original!  He has chased off many a solicitor, showing them the rather large sign on the door, that expressly forbids them attempting to 'sell their wares' on the premises.  We have come to the joint conclusion that they have no idea to what 'no soliciting' pertains.  Of course, I explained that in England, the sign would (or did) refer to the 'oldest profession' and 'ladies of the night' were not permitted to tempt possible customers to partake in illicit adventures!  Plying ones wares is not permitted in our building, in any shape or form, although I have not encountered any 'traditional' vendors.  Normally, we encounter those wishing to promote their telephone expertise, or electronic devices!  However, I digress!  Our maintenance man came in to check out a faulty light bulb and left having fitted a new and improved unit!  Within minutes, another bulb in another unit had blown!

It was with a strange sense of regret that I realised I am no longer up on what goes on in this city in which I live.  My friend, Michele, (the lady who first suggested I 'blog', and whose identify perhaps I should have not given, to protect the innocent,) told me that a colleague of hers will be visiting Austin in the autumn, coming primarily to attend the Formula 1 races!  She asked for some suggestions for day trips, good restaurants, and any other things of interest!  My first response was to suggest San Antonio, and the Alamo, or perhaps a longer drive to the Space Center in Houston.  Locally...well there I was stumped a little.  Not working 'downtown' and rarely venturing there, apart from going to concerts, which did not really give me an insight into what is actually on offer, I am a little out of touch!  Sixth Street, off which we used to office, is not the same buzzing place as it was, and other venues that were popular for visitors have been either closed or rebuilt.  I told her that I would get back to her with a list.  It was all rather sad.  I was no longer a 'tourist'!

Although I have been here for two decades, and am no longer the 'tourist' that I was for at least one of them, with tourist tendencies merging into the start of the second ten years, I am still not completely accepted as a 'local'.  I am quite happy with that as it keeps my identity alive!  My expertise on all things 'British' is considered to be a plus by many, although I am far more knowledgeable of US and Texan law than I am of current British.  "Not any more" I hear more and more, as I speak to family and friends.  A different form of government, of course, naturally means different 'rights' and knowing the 'can's' and 'can't's' of where you live, has to be an advantage.  However, on a culinary level, I think I have become pretty au fait with both!  However, a culinary level will not get me out of a speeding ticket, or parking fine, etc!  "Please, officer.  I can tell you how to bake the perfect cake", or "Contempt, your honour!  How about a great recipe for Yorkshire Pudding!", would probably not be considered a 'bullet proof' defense!  Nor, "I can tell you the difference between an English pint and tablespoon, opposed to an American!"   

Back to my week, and it progressed.  I won tickets for a hockey game, but could not attend.  Samantha and Edward gladly accepted the prize, and the little one had a great time.  Perhaps it is because the game is so fast.  Hockey was never 'my' game.  I managed to avoid it when in school, although Ice Hockey may have been more enjoyable.  Since moving here, I have become quite the fan, especially when 'given' tickets, grattis!  I was glad the tickets could be used.

The maintenance man arrived back on site, and wondered if the Brits were causing a revolt.  "Is it safe to come in?" he joked.  Apparently the issue was more severe than just a blown bulb and he had to come back with more equipment the following day.  "Let me know if there are any more problems!" he said, laughing that this was a 'take over' ploy!  

The week progressed, and it was looking to be our busiest ever!  The mornings were quite warm, giving way to hotter days, and by Friday it was looking like summer.  Blooms appeared, and the smell of lilac was very strong in the air.  Despite having the same smell, the blooms have a slightly different appearance.  It does remind me of home, and my childhood.  Lilac generally meant spring had sprung.  

One of our gals brought her son and daughter in law into the office, with her granddaughter.  Her son, whom we have known since a lad, had worked with us for a while many years ago, and it is always good to see him.  He mentioned that they were going to take a 'Duck Tour'.  "Duck Tour!" I repeated, and told him that I had been asked to give some suggestions of local things to do, to some visitors that were coming in October.  He was reared in the greater Austin area, and he admitted to feeling like a tourist now.  He had no idea what to show his wife as being typically Austin.  I admitted to having the same feeling, having been away from Downtown for so long.  "And I am a foreigner!" I added, mentioning that when I go home I feel more like a tourist, and definitely do 'tourist things'.  I have never taken a 'Duck Tour', although the 'water' part is not really appealing to me.  

We finished work on Friday night and exited the cool office building into a humid evening dusk.  April!  Rain had been forecast, and we were looking forward to it, as the ground has been very dry, but it did not appear to materialise.  I watched all evening for signs of a storm, but despite dark clouds gathering, no moisture fell.

Saturday morning felt slightly more chilly.  We had a slight downpour around five, but it had not made much difference.  The pool was still hovering at around seventy two degrees, even though the wind had picked up.  I emptied the skimmers and headed home.  After shopping with my daughter and grandson, where we were greeted in all stores like long lost friends, I decided to see if it was warm enough to swim. As the water was warmer than the outside temperature, it felt rather good, but it was not really warm enough to sit and read.  I headed back to the warmer inside!  I had to wear a jacket for the first time this week!

Always amused, but never surprised, by the change in the temperatures, I ventured out into what were arctic conditions on Sunday.  Although the temperatures read about 45, the 'feels like' due to the wind, was below freezing.  The bitter breeze cut through my coat, and my eyes watered as I trudged along, wondering why I had bothered to brave the elements.  I cleaned the skimmers, which were full, and swept the filters, as best I could, taking care not to allow my phone to be in a position to fall in!  It was not going to get much warmer, and the water temperature had dropped to sixty!  Although it was warmer than the outside temperature, I doubted I would be swimming later!  It was not as if I had to!  Perhaps in the early years, I would have taken on the challenge, and perhaps remembering what it was like to be a 'tourist' would revive the 'what you can do in Austin' memories, but other methods may be a little more appealing!

After speaking to my sister, and sharing events of our lives, I once again marveled at how I got here!  I feel that as long as I remember the times that I was a tourist, and indeed, a visitor, I would still feel everything was new.  An Englishwoman abroad!  Perhaps Texan in dress (sometimes) and Texan in activity and lifestyle (moreso) I will always be that Englishwoman abroad.  Perhaps some consider eccentric.  Sometimes it is exciting and sometimes mundane.  After all, the grass is always greener on the other side of the fence.  The question is, from which side of the fence do you want to view the grass.  Now that is a topic for ........... another story!

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!