Gary Strachan – "Write" Said Fred
Whimsical observations from deep within an erratic mind
Afternoon on the last Tuesday of March 2024 – Two intrepid brothers set off in a campervan into the unknown. Forecasts of cold temperatures and unforgiving precipitation not deterring the latter-day Scott and Shackleton from embarking on their voyage north. And why would upcoming intemperate weather dent their fortitude; after all, they had a furry... Continue Reading →
Saturday saw me journey north from West Yorkshire to my boyhood town of Gateshead, where I left to seek my fortune in 1987. This odyssey to attend a gig at Glasshouse International Music Centre (GIMC), formerly known as the Sage. Footnote – I never earned much of a fortune, but spending the last 37 years... Continue Reading →
Yesterday, I started penning a submission for an upcoming writing group meeting. A yarn which, although having potential as a short story, for various reasons I am not going to complete. The prompt topic for next Wednesday’s tale was cinema. Initial thoughts leading to me begin writing a story about a small local movie theatre.... 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 →
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 →
The new year is upon us. For many the start of January manifesting resolutions aimed at improving physical and/or mental wellbeing. People’s declarations of existential advancement coming in various ways. For instance, gym memberships increase, sales of workout gear surge skywards like new years fireworks, and I purge all thoughts of taking up lion taming.... Continue Reading →
I have been stricken with COVID since Christmas Day; the virus an unintended festive present from my fragrant beau Sarah… Well, hopefully the pathogen wasn’t intentionally passed to me by the shapely West Yorkshire lass. Although with her mischievous sense of humour, I wouldn’t totally rule it out. The Ossett lady was similarly afflicted last... Continue Reading →