I count myself lucky that during my half century or so on this planet (and the others I sometimes wander off to) I’ve had the opportunity to visit many awe inspiring, historical and iconic buildings. Included amongst these majestic structures are the Cathedral at Notre Dame in Paris, St Peter's Basilica in Rome, Burj al Arab... Continue Reading →
A Few Of My Favourite Things
There is a paucity of good cheer in chez Strachan at the moment. Uncertainty in many aspects of Karen’s and my life all currently contribute to a melting pot of uneasiness; causing self-doubt and the taunting our minds. Focussing on things we can change has to be our priority. However, a combination of concerns creates... Continue Reading →
Give Her A Break Karma!
On this precipitous Monday morning, I've been perusing my diary to ascertain what we have organised for the upcoming week. Despite the convenience of recording plans on the calendar app on my smart phone, the Luddite in me leads me to utilise an 'old school' paper diary. This traditional organiser exhibits a distinct scarcity of ink in the pages... Continue Reading →
Patience of a Saint
As a middle aged man addled with cynicism and with bitterness to spare, it is heartening to know my erratic mind still occasionally revisits the immature double entrendre destinations of my youth. I’m not overly proud of the jokes themselves, however it is comforting to know I still have one foot in the portal of my... Continue Reading →
On Temple Newsam Pond
I started writing this narrative sat in the Oncology Institute at St James' Hospital, while awaiting Karen's oncologist appointment. It's the first of two visits this week as she has her monthly treatment on Tuesday to supplement her daily medication. When I commenced writing this, I was heartened to see the sun shining outside and... Continue Reading →
Laughter Is The Tonic
Charlie Chaplin once said "Laughter is the tonic, the relief, the surcease for pain.". I assume he did so via a caption as all the films I saw him in he was inaudible! Despite everything, it is a mantra we as a family try to live by as much as possible. There are times when... Continue Reading →
Character Assassination by Parrot
Over the past few days I’ve received numerous accusations of being a cynic. This has led me to the conclusion that either a) I need to address my behaviour, or b) get rid of the talking parrot Karen bought on Saturday! The bloody thing repeats everything she says. It’s even started giving me flaming chores to... Continue Reading →
Vinyl Voyage of Nostalgia
Taking a trip down memory lane, embarking on a journey of nostalgia or venturing on an excursion of sentiment. I don’t know what you call times of fond reminiscence (oh you call it times of fond reminiscence), but my wife Karen and I embarked on one yesterday evening. The journey followed my impulse buy at... Continue Reading →
Waiting Room Etiquette
Karen underwent a test this morning, as part of her latest tranche of investigations scheduled to identify ongoing issues resultant from her illness. On checking her appointment letter this morning, I became aware that the investigation staff wouldn't be able to undertake the test if her blood pressure was too high at appointment time. With... Continue Reading →