Gary Strachan – "Write" Said Fred
Whimsical observations from deep within an erratic mind
I’ve just spent two hours dressed in a yellow tabard, wearing a huge daffodil on my head and with a box around my neck containing daffodil lapel pins. To clarify, when I say I had a huge daff on my head I mean a hat in that design, not that I have a yellow flower... Continue Reading →
I don't recollect much of biblical studies in Religious Education lessons from my schooldays. That being said, I can vaguely recall the part of the Gospel of Matthew in which he describes Jesus fasting in the desert. During Christ's abstinence from food, Matthew conveys the devil endeavoured to tempt him to turn stone into bread... Continue Reading →
The changeability of the great British weather was perfectly highlighted today, when at 11am in Leeds heavy snow started falling; only for three hours later there to be sunshine and predominantly clear paths and roads. As I write, throughout our metropolis there will be thousands of fed up kids currently on their trek home from... Continue Reading →
Recently, I visited York to see my son Jonny on his off day. It's always a fillip to catch up with the lad who calls me dad. He calls me some less flattering things as well, but it's best they remain within the family. We took in lunch in one of York’s many fine eateries.... Continue Reading →
In 1982 the British punk rock band The Clash released a single that included the lyrics:- Should I stay or should I go now? If I go there will be trouble And if I stay it will be double So you gotta let me know Should I cool it or should I blow? Should I... Continue Reading →
It was encouraging to read the news earlier in the week that the government are to inject much needed funds into the mental health care of the nation. Approximately £1 billion is to be made available to the NHS to help negate the previous underfunding by successive administrations. Despite its higher profile in recent years,... Continue Reading →
It’s February 13th today. Not a notable day as such, unless it’s your birthday or you win tonight’s lottery, or perhaps are a scientist who during the day discovers the chemical element plumium. If today had been a Friday it would have assumed an altogether high profile in the psyche of the superstitious. Individuals who subscribe... Continue Reading →
The late American actor/musician Jack Lemmon was born on this day in 1925. Born John Uhler Lemmon III in a suburb of Boston, Massachusetts, he was the only child of John Uhler Lemmon Jr and his wife Mildred. His father was president of a doughnut company and his mother wasn’t. The number 8 figured highly... Continue Reading →
The literary icon Charles Dickens would have been 205 years old today. If he was still with us, the Hampshire born writer would have no doubt have spent a day book signing at Waterstones, prior to moving on to his local Berni Inn for a carvery with his great, great, great, grandchildren. After all that... Continue Reading →