19March1996

My dear folks,

A shortie, before I go off to work. I’ve had a good day’s sleep after last night’s shift, something for which I’m always grateful as it’s a blessing in the gift of the gods who are capricious by nature. Mavis also had a good day’s sleep, choosing the bottom of the bed where he knew he was least likely to be disturbed (by me, i.e.).

I had a chat with Bren last night & was surprised to hear that he now picks up BBC World Service TV via a satellite dish. He had been called through by his son a few days back to see a report I’d presented. Sadly, he’d arrived a moment too late. I was able to console him with the promise of more reports. I’m grateful to be back on the newsdesk after a six month stint on the morning current affairs show. It wasn’t me.

I also brought Bren up to date on the correspondence & conversations that relate to your SA affairs Mum. I think it ought to be noted, at least for the benefit of my Calgarian hosts, that my consumption of alcohol fell from its reasonably generous holiday allowance to a mere 2 glasses of wine yesterday & to nil today. And that’s not for any lack of supplies. What I do need badly is to make a food raid on Sainsburys as the fridge is bare. It’s something I plan to do tomorrow afternoon. I’m not suffering the meanwhile, mind you. I’m lucky enough to be able to fall back on the BBC canteen for healthy breakfasts & dinners.

Also on my task list is a thorough vacuum cleaning of the flat. It’s not looking too bad, don’t mistake my meaning. More than anything it needs a sunny day & a breath of fresh air. We’re back to the London winter diet of grey, gloom & drizzle. I can still feel the Calgarian sun on my face and see the sunset from the deck. I should be able to last out until my trip to Portugal next month.

Thank you Jones for your fax. I will respond to our potential new clients after a word with you. Personally, I feel with can do without them. I’ve had confirmation from Hawkins that she wants only the smaller cottage in Aug/Sept as per the latest schedule which follows. There’s another low heading your way from deep in the Atlantic I fear. I do hope it passes you by but I’m not banking on it. By the way, Llewellyn says he’s got a job with the Argus in CT.

I must away, so let me get this off.

Blessings
T