Gary Strachan – "Write" Said Fred
Whimsical observations from deep within an erratic mind
I've just returned from a post-lunch stroll to pick up cardio meds from the pharmacy. Not a massive walk by any stretch of the imagination, however the half hour return journey was the longest hike I've undertaken during my rehabilitation from heart attack. Consequently, I'm heartened (pardon the pun) that I've achieved another small but... Continue Reading →
While seeking an epiphany for today's blog subject a mug of lukewarm tea bearing the well-meaning words 'Keep Calm & Chill Out' stares back at me. Dining table in situ, it's message somehow seems personal, as if pointing out "Yes, Strachan. I'm talking to you!!" Coincidentally, the teal coloured cup bears the exact wording uttered... Continue Reading →
Over many years of undertaking the unofficial and unwanted role of St Garfield, the patron saint of hospital waiting rooms, I've learned it's possible to extract humour, melancholy and maybe a thought-provoking notion from even the darkest of situations. For instance, during my post cardiac-arrest hospital admission I was asked scores of medical questions -... Continue Reading →
Sitting with a bowl of wasabi peas and a mandarin, carrot and ginger smoothie, I've one eye on my laptop and the other on a Sky Atlantic show called The Trip to Spain. This a series of six half hour shows in which British entertainers/writers Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon sample cuisine at some of... Continue Reading →
A foreboding grey sheet envelopes this morning's east Leeds sky. Looking out from my recuperative billet, leafless deciduous trees and a visually unappealing brick building from Colton Retail Park lugubriously return my gaze. The pallid outdoor canvas providing such dimmed natural light that, despite the clock showing 10.07 am, there's a requirement for table lamp... Continue Reading →
In search of a strategy to help me relax during post-op recuperation, I'm currently listening to the calming sounds of rainfall on YouTube. This ten hour video, shot in a park on one static camera, bequeathing to it's viewer/listener the relaxing tones of cascading precipitation. I'd like to clarify, I don't intend listening to all... Continue Reading →
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 →