A hint of spring this week. Facebook followers will know that I have been enjoying morning dog walks that, on a clear day, take place at sunrise. We set off in pre-dawn grey, watch the sun rise over the quarry as we follow whichever route I have chosen, and return in sunshine. It’s also been getting warmer in the mornings – no need for gloves or scarf. Snowdrops decorate the verge on the Lane, and daffodil buds are visible, although still sheathed in green.
I had lunch with Simon on Monday – we lunch weekly. My turn to buy lunch this week, and Simon suggested “Bills” in the Highcross shopping centre, a chain restaurant that I had not been to before. It was essentially the same as similar “American-style” restaurants that are common across the city, offering burgers, pizzas and pasta, although the menu was quite extensive, the service good, and the atmosphere nice. I’m not sure that this justified the premium prices though. I ordered a shandy, but since only bottled beers were on offer, I opted for a bottle of IPA. The bottle was disappointingly small. When comparing with a pint at the Heathcote Arms, I paid 150% of the price for not much more than 50% of the beer, served ice cold. IPA should not be served ice cold – it was quite acceptable once thawed.
A day of mixed emotions on Wednesday – the funeral of an elderly friend and neighbour. Mike, who lived at the top of the Lane, died unexpectedly last month. Mike and his Japanese wife Myoko had no children, and few local friends other than his friends in our community on the Lane. 18 of us from the Lane went to the Funeral to support Myoko and Mikes close relatives, which was appreciated by Mikes niece, cousin and family. During the traditional tea and sandwiches after the service, we all got the distinct impression that the relatives would rather like to be honorary members of the Thurlaston Lane community. Who knows – maybe they will be come to an evening of pub skittles suggested by another neighbour?
Spent yesterday with Pauline, continuing the long process of clearing Dad’s house. Its the ornaments that take the time. If some homes of the modern generation can be described as “minimalist”, Mum and Dads generations are definitely “maximumists”.
Incidentally, the chimney sweep/flue repair chap never turned up last week. In fact, when we called him he denied ever having made the appointment. And an hour ago the sliding door to the stove wouldn’t close properly and we are waiting for it to cool before investigating. There are times when a simple gas fire seems a good idea.
Technically we live in Oaktree House, but sadly the tree had to go.
We now have a thriving Oakstump at the front of the house.
