Gary Strachan – "Write" Said Fred
Whimsical observations from deep within an erratic mind
I’m now on the penultimate day of ‘Dry January’. I've found the experience of the last few weeks sobering in more ways than just from the abstinence of alcohol. At times I’ve felt an inner calmness that has long been missing in my life, so much so that on 23rd January at 11.43 I nearly... Continue Reading →
I’ve just finished a very simple, but satisfying, breakfast of marmite on toast. It’s was by no stretch of the imagination a culinary masterpiece, of which would grace the recipe books of Jamie Oliver, James Martin or Oasis lead singer Liam Gallagher. However, those two toasted pieces of bread smothered with vegemite meant my day... Continue Reading →
I've just seen a trailer for a program about 19th century French military commander Napoleon Bonaparte. Despite having an interest in history, I don’t recollect a great deal about the Napoleonic Wars from my schooldays. In fact I don’t remember much about my schooldays if truth be told, although in my defence it was over... Continue Reading →
I indulged in a spot of document purging this morning. It's took a while, but at long last I got my backside in gear after acknowledging I couldn’t put off this task any longer. It finally dawning on me that my procrastination was starting to impact the cordial ambiance in Chez Strachan; so I decided... Continue Reading →
This evening Scots around the world will celebrate Burns Night to mark the birthday of 18th century Scottish poet and lyricist Rabbie (Robert) Burns. Among the celebrations will be feasting on haggis, neeps and tatties, imbibing a wee dram to toast the national poet of Scotland and, in some cases, a recital of the Bard... Continue Reading →
This morning the unforgiving precipitation and foreboding grey overhead nimbus clouds returned to East Leeds. The few days of respite from rain have departed and my mind turns once again to the conundrum of whether I should build an ark! In my back garden, a solitary robin shelters forlornly under pyracantha leaves, whilst feasting on... Continue Reading →
Parental Guidance – This blog contains the unavoidable use of colourful language, in particular a word that rhymes with duck. Enter at your own risk! I’m 20 days into my ‘Dry January’ now. All has been well so far and I haven’t displayed any overt signs of withdrawal!......... Well, unless me sitting with the fridge... Continue Reading →
I wrote recently of my scepticism surrounding old wives tales! During that mini diatribe, I carelessly omitted to touch on the comedic value of these superstitious folk tales when misquoted! As with mixed metaphors and idioms, there is something inherently funny about people attempting to impart words of wisdom, only for them to incorrectly delivered!... Continue Reading →
Yesterday a good friend, who has been hugely supportive of my writing, offered constructive feedback about the David Bowie ‘tribute’ monologue I penned on Monday. They informed me that, although it made them laugh, there were “too many blags (silly fictional references) for one hell of a guy” They are probably right and I appreciated... Continue Reading →