Gary Strachan – "Write" Said Fred
Whimsical observations from deep within an erratic mind
I am back in my old writing ground of a White Rose Shopping Centre café in Leeds. The retail outlet, which my partner Sarah colourfully dubs the ‘Shite Rose’, surprisingly busy for a Monday morning. Although today’s heavy rain is probably contributing towards the unexpected aisle congestion. Sarah has many nicknames for retail outlets, including... Continue Reading →
Of late, I have taken on a few more doggy day care duties for my partner Sarah. This following her daughter Katelan and fella Simon’s departure from her home. Packing in my part-time job affording me opportunity to undertake this labour of love. Let me start by saying I have absolutely no issue with keeping... Continue Reading →
Today's literary offering is a submission I read for a bi-weekly writing group I attend in the village of Spofforth, North Yorkshire. For those who don't know where Spofforth is, it is on the outskirts of Wetherby. If you don't know where Wetherby is and really want to know, bloody Google it!... Chuffing hell, I... Continue Reading →
Seeking inspiration for today’s narrative, I am indulging in a spot of people watching from my office/spare bedroom window. With deciduous trees currently barren, my perch affording unhindered views of the busy road and pathways of the main Wakefield to Barnsley thoroughfare. Insulated against the sub-zero temperatures with wooly hat, anorak and fleece, the folks... Continue Reading →
“He looks really scruffy!” A forthright opinion emanating from an elderly lady’s mouth as I walked past her and (I assume) her husband while strolling towards the Batley Mills retail outlet entrance. With other shoppers in the immediate vicinity, I am unsure if this barb was directed at me. And even if it was, as... Continue Reading →
Last Saturday saw my first day at the races since pre-COVID19 lockdown. The outing part of a weekend in Newcastle with my son-in-law Simon; meeting up with my brother Ian who lives across the River Tyne in Gateshead. Incidentally, although I refer to Simon as my son-in-law that is not strictly true. Well not since... Continue Reading →
Five years ago a life episode played out which, although shaking my being to the very core, became a catalyst for positive life changes on my part. Transformations which have enhanced my life immeasurably; subsequently, augmenting my self-worth and esteem. Let me point out this life event, the suffering of a heart attack, could've been... Continue Reading →
In lieu of a blog, today I include my submission for a writing group I attended yesterday. The prompt for our submissions was 'flooded river':- Through my front room window, I watch water advance slowly towards the riverside bungalows neighbours and I call home. Although proceeding at a sloth-like pace it remains a a sinister... Continue Reading →
After almost a week of malady, yesterday I finally tested negative for COVID. Subsequently, today I ventured out of my apartment for the first time since Christmas Day; today’s writing venue the front room of my beau Sarah’s home. As she is working, I’ve volunteered to sit with her adorable German Shepherd Zella. The furry... Continue Reading →