It is with just a trace of irony that I (who have never really liked wearing a watch) have just purchased one for myself! I'm on vacation. I don't wear one at home, at work! Why now!?
The answer is simple. We're all going off in separate directions for various reasons and agreeing to meet-up after we've run our separate chores. Shopping, taking pictures, walking around, going to the pub; we all have different things we want to do apart from the combined things we wanted to do together.
The choices are simple, either I can tag along with one or more of the others as they do the things that they want to do or I can strike off on my own and meet-up at the appointed place and time. That will be much easier to do if I actually know what time it is.
Well, now I can. I have a new watch and I can give the others the private time they want and not have to worry that I am infringing on their private time. (I am still worried that I am not giving the others enough "alone time" but then, I am just prone to worrying and obsessing about things I needn't worry about. I seem to spend a lot of time doing it, in fact.
Wherever you are today, I hope you are having the time of your life.
Don Bergquist – 31 October 2007 – Cape Town, South Africa.
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
31 October 2007 – Halloween Morning
Oh! How relaxing is this! The whole travel bit is over! (…for now…)
Arrival in South Africa was (fairly) uneventful. We got through passport control in just over 30-minutes and went on to wait for our luggage. A change of clothing, a beer-or-two, and a massage later and it was good-bye Johannesburg, two-hours more in the air, hello Cape Town.
The hotel is nice. It is just across from the Waterfront. The view of the bay is, well… to paraphrase Douglas Adams: from my room I can see a small slice of the bay that the surrounding buildings just barely fail to obscure. Table Mountain (today's adventure) looms over the buildings as it wraps around the town to the south.
Yesterday is a blur. We discussed the plans at the airport but I decided that I am on vacation and feel no real need to be tied too tightly to a schedule. I know that there are a number of things that we are trying to get to and there are a number of things we all need to do, but that is something that can work itself out. My friend Kevin has a similar mindset. As he put it: "Tell me when to show-up for the meals, which bar we're going to, when our cars are arriving and which plane to get onto at the airport." Luckily, Terry and Angie have been here a number of times before. They have a plan and Angie is an excellent administrator/tour guide.
After check-in yesterday, we had a beer and a dip in the pool and then sat on the deck by the pool basking in the sun, discussing itinerary options and finalizing the plans. Our batteries, thusly recharged, we dressed for a walk around the Waterfront and bought tickets for the various activities we have planned.
We had a lovely dinner last night and each of us headed off to our rooms early. After such a long and busy day yesterday, I was dead to the world the moment my head hit the pillow last night. This morning, I am sitting in my room, enjoying a nice, peaceful morning. I have some lovely music playing; I'm enjoying my second cup of coffee. In a little while, I'll head downstairs to meet-up with my friends for breakfast. Today's adventure is to take the cable car to the top of Table Mountain. This vacation rocks!
Wherever you are today, I hope that you’re having a wonderful, relaxing day!
Don Bergquist – 31 October 2007 – Cape Town, South Africa
Arrival in South Africa was (fairly) uneventful. We got through passport control in just over 30-minutes and went on to wait for our luggage. A change of clothing, a beer-or-two, and a massage later and it was good-bye Johannesburg, two-hours more in the air, hello Cape Town.
The hotel is nice. It is just across from the Waterfront. The view of the bay is, well… to paraphrase Douglas Adams: from my room I can see a small slice of the bay that the surrounding buildings just barely fail to obscure. Table Mountain (today's adventure) looms over the buildings as it wraps around the town to the south.Yesterday is a blur. We discussed the plans at the airport but I decided that I am on vacation and feel no real need to be tied too tightly to a schedule. I know that there are a number of things that we are trying to get to and there are a number of things we all need to do, but that is something that can work itself out. My friend Kevin has a similar mindset. As he put it: "Tell me when to show-up for the meals, which bar we're going to, when our cars are arriving and which plane to get onto at the airport." Luckily, Terry and Angie have been here a number of times before. They have a plan and Angie is an excellent administrator/tour guide.
After check-in yesterday, we had a beer and a dip in the pool and then sat on the deck by the pool basking in the sun, discussing itinerary options and finalizing the plans. Our batteries, thusly recharged, we dressed for a walk around the Waterfront and bought tickets for the various activities we have planned.
We had a lovely dinner last night and each of us headed off to our rooms early. After such a long and busy day yesterday, I was dead to the world the moment my head hit the pillow last night. This morning, I am sitting in my room, enjoying a nice, peaceful morning. I have some lovely music playing; I'm enjoying my second cup of coffee. In a little while, I'll head downstairs to meet-up with my friends for breakfast. Today's adventure is to take the cable car to the top of Table Mountain. This vacation rocks!
Wherever you are today, I hope that you’re having a wonderful, relaxing day!
Don Bergquist – 31 October 2007 – Cape Town, South Africa
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Departure
Well, the holiday is getting off to a flying start, literally!
After six hours at the office yesterday and a whirlwind job at getting what I could get done, finished, I popped the trailer on the bike and Saga and I headed over to Yvonne's place. I know that Saga figured it out. She lay on the carpet by the radiator all morning watching me carry things past her to the ground floor. (Gee! I have a lot of stuff in the UK! It's almost as if I have been living here for a while!)
My friend, Kevin stopped by at about 13:00 and we put all the stuff into his car and waited for the car to take us to the airport. After a breakfast at the pub and a bit of time spent watching television, we headed out.
At the airport, we all got through the check-in and security checks without much ado and then it was off to the bar for a beer or two while waiting.
The waxing moon rose over the airport as we awaited the plane. What a great start to what promises to be a great vacation!
That was hours ago. I am now sitting wide-awake at three in the morning. The movies have failed to hold my attention, little surprise there! I have been awake for twenty-three hours now. The woman in the next seat has been tossing, turning, and jabbing me in the ribs all evening. Nevertheless, it is my overall inability to sleep on planes that has provided me the opportunity to sit here and wonder what to write about.
Oh well, we should be on the ground in a few hours. The vacation is soon to begin in earnest!
Wherever you are today, I hope that your day is going places!
Don Bergquist – 30 October 2007 – BA Flight 57, Somewhere over Africa
After six hours at the office yesterday and a whirlwind job at getting what I could get done, finished, I popped the trailer on the bike and Saga and I headed over to Yvonne's place. I know that Saga figured it out. She lay on the carpet by the radiator all morning watching me carry things past her to the ground floor. (Gee! I have a lot of stuff in the UK! It's almost as if I have been living here for a while!)My friend, Kevin stopped by at about 13:00 and we put all the stuff into his car and waited for the car to take us to the airport. After a breakfast at the pub and a bit of time spent watching television, we headed out.
At the airport, we all got through the check-in and security checks without much ado and then it was off to the bar for a beer or two while waiting.
The waxing moon rose over the airport as we awaited the plane. What a great start to what promises to be a great vacation!That was hours ago. I am now sitting wide-awake at three in the morning. The movies have failed to hold my attention, little surprise there! I have been awake for twenty-three hours now. The woman in the next seat has been tossing, turning, and jabbing me in the ribs all evening. Nevertheless, it is my overall inability to sleep on planes that has provided me the opportunity to sit here and wonder what to write about.
Oh well, we should be on the ground in a few hours. The vacation is soon to begin in earnest!
Wherever you are today, I hope that your day is going places!
Don Bergquist – 30 October 2007 – BA Flight 57, Somewhere over Africa
Monday, October 29, 2007
Off To South Africa
Hello all! The day has finally arrived! I've only got to finish carrying my carry-on and then head into the office. I have the last few things I need to toss into one of the cases not going on holiday with me. Then it is off to the office to get a few things done.
By early afternoon, I'll have finished so I can come back to the house and clear all the stuff that is staying so that they can clean the house before returning the keys. It has been nearly two years here. I cannot believe it is over. Where does the time go?
I have to get into the office if I am going to get everything done so I have to fly.
Wherever you are today I hope that you are getting the chance to do everything you need to do.
Don Bergquist – 29 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Editor's Note:
The blog will be on holiday until I get the chance to post again. I may or may not have the chance to post until I return from South Africa. Please read some of my back posts or take a look at one of the sites I have linked to at right. Look for new stories and pictures starting mid-to-late November.
By early afternoon, I'll have finished so I can come back to the house and clear all the stuff that is staying so that they can clean the house before returning the keys. It has been nearly two years here. I cannot believe it is over. Where does the time go?
I have to get into the office if I am going to get everything done so I have to fly.
Wherever you are today I hope that you are getting the chance to do everything you need to do.
Don Bergquist – 29 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Editor's Note:
The blog will be on holiday until I get the chance to post again. I may or may not have the chance to post until I return from South Africa. Please read some of my back posts or take a look at one of the sites I have linked to at right. Look for new stories and pictures starting mid-to-late November.
Sunday, October 28, 2007
24 Hours (more-or-less)
I am so damn excited!
I've done about everything that I can do. I have my packing done. What I am wearing today will go into the suitcase with my pajamas and toiletries in the morning. My work/travel clothing is all laid out in the bedroom and is all I have left in the house not packed. (Except, that is, for the computer that will go into my carry-on in the morning.)
Thank heavens for the time change! I slept in and still had time to finish everything before breakfast. Heck, I even had time to mow the back garden one last time. The place is looking good!
Kevin is coming over this afternoon to schlep some of my cases and me to Terry and Angie's for a last-minute strategy session. We'll check-in and then have a bite to eat. In fact, I should probably go and get ready to go…
Wherever you are toady, I hope that you're having a great weekend.
Don Bergquist – 28 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
I've done about everything that I can do. I have my packing done. What I am wearing today will go into the suitcase with my pajamas and toiletries in the morning. My work/travel clothing is all laid out in the bedroom and is all I have left in the house not packed. (Except, that is, for the computer that will go into my carry-on in the morning.)
Thank heavens for the time change! I slept in and still had time to finish everything before breakfast. Heck, I even had time to mow the back garden one last time. The place is looking good!
Kevin is coming over this afternoon to schlep some of my cases and me to Terry and Angie's for a last-minute strategy session. We'll check-in and then have a bite to eat. In fact, I should probably go and get ready to go…
Wherever you are toady, I hope that you're having a great weekend.
Don Bergquist – 28 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
British Summer Time Ends
On 28 October 2007, your clock falls back at 01:00 BST to 12:00 GMT.
(You get one extra hour to sleep!)
(You get one extra hour to sleep!)
Saturday, October 27, 2007
…And Counting
I have two loads of laundry left to do, some housework, and a little bit of packing. All things going as planned I should be finished by this afternoon. Then I can take a ride and enjoy my last weekend before holiday.
It is a big dismal outside, I have hopes that it will get better. I suppose sitting here and writing is not getting my packing done. I'm going!
Wherever you are today, I hope your weekend is going well.
Don Bergquist – 27 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
It is a big dismal outside, I have hopes that it will get better. I suppose sitting here and writing is not getting my packing done. I'm going!
Wherever you are today, I hope your weekend is going well.
Don Bergquist – 27 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Friday, October 26, 2007
72 Hours...
It's less than three days until I leave on my trip to South Africa. After not sleeping last night, I came home to the house and let took Saga for a walk and then went to lunch with some friends from the office.
Trying to finish my packing, I moved all my stuff to one of the empty rooms and started anew. I wish I had thought of this sooner! I know one of my bags is too heavy to fly, but then I am pretty sure the one that I am taking to South Africa will have weight to spare, Il thinking that I can transfer stuff from the heavy to the light one should I need to at the airport.
I'm off to meet-up with my friends at the pub. Saga has been a dear (helping me with my packing) and so I think we'll go to the pub for the evening.
Wherever you are, I hope you've had a great day!
Don Bergquist – 26 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Trying to finish my packing, I moved all my stuff to one of the empty rooms and started anew. I wish I had thought of this sooner! I know one of my bags is too heavy to fly, but then I am pretty sure the one that I am taking to South Africa will have weight to spare, Il thinking that I can transfer stuff from the heavy to the light one should I need to at the airport.
I'm off to meet-up with my friends at the pub. Saga has been a dear (helping me with my packing) and so I think we'll go to the pub for the evening.
Wherever you are, I hope you've had a great day!
Don Bergquist – 26 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Insomnia
I cannot believe that I am up and unable to sleep at 01:30 in the morning! I've been sleeping fitfully this evening, which surprises me; when I climbed into bed at ten last night I was dead tired. I had worked all day and then came home to try and finish organizing and packing. I didn't get through it, but around eight thirty I couldn't take any more so I took myself downstairs, made a nice big salad, and headed up to the lounge to watch some television.
Perhaps I am just excited about my upcoming vacation. I am really looking forward to this! It is going to be a blast. I've been reading the tour books and pouring over the maps. I've checked that I have lots of memory cards for my cameras and am all set.
Perhaps I am daunted by the number of things I have left to do before I am ready to go on said vacation. Since we'll be losing the house while I am on vacation, I need to pack my bags for the states before I leave. I cannot leave anything behind at the house, but I['m not taking everything with me to South Africa. I have to go and get a couple shots for my trip. And I have to make sure that Saga is all sorted-out.
Perhaps it is because I have so many things left to do before I can move back home in November. I've got a number of things to do that I cannot do before I get back from South Africa. I've been here long enough that I found it advantageous to open a bank account. I've got to go to the post office and forward my mail back to the states. I've got to make a couple runs down to the charity shops with some stuff that I have here that I do not need to take home with me.
Or perhaps it is just because I am moving back home in November. I cannot believe it! I have been, for all intents and purposes, living here for the past two years. It's funny. Two years ago I wrote in my blog that I could never picture myself living here. All the time, I was. To paraphrase the old aphorism:
Wherever you are today(or tonight), I hope you'll take the time to stop and notice what is happening around you! (I'm off to bed to try and get some sleep!)
Don Bergquist - 26 October 2007 - Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Perhaps I am just excited about my upcoming vacation. I am really looking forward to this! It is going to be a blast. I've been reading the tour books and pouring over the maps. I've checked that I have lots of memory cards for my cameras and am all set.
Perhaps I am daunted by the number of things I have left to do before I am ready to go on said vacation. Since we'll be losing the house while I am on vacation, I need to pack my bags for the states before I leave. I cannot leave anything behind at the house, but I['m not taking everything with me to South Africa. I have to go and get a couple shots for my trip. And I have to make sure that Saga is all sorted-out.
Perhaps it is because I have so many things left to do before I can move back home in November. I've got a number of things to do that I cannot do before I get back from South Africa. I've been here long enough that I found it advantageous to open a bank account. I've got to go to the post office and forward my mail back to the states. I've got to make a couple runs down to the charity shops with some stuff that I have here that I do not need to take home with me.
Or perhaps it is just because I am moving back home in November. I cannot believe it! I have been, for all intents and purposes, living here for the past two years. It's funny. Two years ago I wrote in my blog that I could never picture myself living here. All the time, I was. To paraphrase the old aphorism:
Life is what happens while you're too busy to notice.
Wherever you are today(or tonight), I hope you'll take the time to stop and notice what is happening around you! (I'm off to bed to try and get some sleep!)
Don Bergquist - 26 October 2007 - Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Still Packing!
Somehow, once I had sent off the stuff that I had packed in boxes, my cases are heavier than they had been before I sent off the extra stuff…
When I was a kid, I remember having a bad fever and having a dream where I was kneading dough. The more I punched down the dough, the more it expanded. It seemed that I could not get the dough small enough to fit back into the bowl that I had taken it out of. I am getting the same sensation while packing! What I really need is the TARDIS to come and give me a lift back to Denver.
Preparations for South Africa continue unabated. I am getting excited! I've bought the guidebooks for the areas we are going and there are so many great things to do there! Will there be time to drink? Well, it’s a vacation; I suppose we'll have to make time to drink!
But before that, I have to finish packing. I've decided on a new strategy for this afternoon. I am going to pull everything out and spread it into piles on the bed. Then once I have everything sorted, I'll try packing it another way.
Wherever you are today, I hope you are having a great day!
Don Bergquist – 25 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
When I was a kid, I remember having a bad fever and having a dream where I was kneading dough. The more I punched down the dough, the more it expanded. It seemed that I could not get the dough small enough to fit back into the bowl that I had taken it out of. I am getting the same sensation while packing! What I really need is the TARDIS to come and give me a lift back to Denver.
Preparations for South Africa continue unabated. I am getting excited! I've bought the guidebooks for the areas we are going and there are so many great things to do there! Will there be time to drink? Well, it’s a vacation; I suppose we'll have to make time to drink!
But before that, I have to finish packing. I've decided on a new strategy for this afternoon. I am going to pull everything out and spread it into piles on the bed. Then once I have everything sorted, I'll try packing it another way.
Wherever you are today, I hope you are having a great day!
Don Bergquist – 25 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Hump Day
It's just after four and I am awake.
It's not as if I was in bed early last night. I was packing until about nine and then had a quick dinner, checked email and played with Saga a bit before going to bed. I slept well, better than I have been of late.
It's not entirely my choice to be up this early. Saga came up to tell me she wanted attention about half an hour ago. She sat at my bedroom door whining until she got my attention and then wanted to be let out.
It's not as if I didn't try to get back to sleep when she came in, but up is up and once I had gotten back to bed, it was impossible for me to fall back asleep. I look at the stack of stuff yet to be backed on the top of the dresser, and think of the stuff I cannot see (hidden away in the closet) and know I must get it packed.
It's going to be a long day for me but wherever you are today, I hope you got to sleep as late as possible.
Don Bergquist – 24 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
It's not as if I was in bed early last night. I was packing until about nine and then had a quick dinner, checked email and played with Saga a bit before going to bed. I slept well, better than I have been of late.
It's not entirely my choice to be up this early. Saga came up to tell me she wanted attention about half an hour ago. She sat at my bedroom door whining until she got my attention and then wanted to be let out.
It's not as if I didn't try to get back to sleep when she came in, but up is up and once I had gotten back to bed, it was impossible for me to fall back asleep. I look at the stack of stuff yet to be backed on the top of the dresser, and think of the stuff I cannot see (hidden away in the closet) and know I must get it packed.
It's going to be a long day for me but wherever you are today, I hope you got to sleep as late as possible.
Don Bergquist – 24 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Packing
How the hell does so much crap accumulate? It is as if stuff has just been orbiting out there and has slowly accumulated in the house around me without action on my part. I don't remember going out and getting all this stuff… And I certainly don't remember ever traveling back to the states with empty cases only to return to London with them full. So where did I get all this stuff?
My room is in utter disarray. Since Friday afternoon I have been getting everything in the house that is mine and hauling it up to my room so that I can organize and pack for my trip. I've done loads of laundry and gotten boxes to pack all the stuff that will not fit in my cases. It is daunting. Not only do I have to get everything to fit, I have to make sure that the cases (when packed) do not exceed the allowance that the airlines have.
Also, when I get to the point that I am actually leaving, I'll have two cases, a carry-on, my dog and her kennel (two sizes too large, thanks to DEFRA regulations!) and will have a nice long day ahead of me to worry about! I cannot wait!
But that is in the future. For today, all I have to worry about is getting all this stuff packed.
Wherever you are, I hope that you're having a great day!
Don Bergquist – 23 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
My room is in utter disarray. Since Friday afternoon I have been getting everything in the house that is mine and hauling it up to my room so that I can organize and pack for my trip. I've done loads of laundry and gotten boxes to pack all the stuff that will not fit in my cases. It is daunting. Not only do I have to get everything to fit, I have to make sure that the cases (when packed) do not exceed the allowance that the airlines have.
Also, when I get to the point that I am actually leaving, I'll have two cases, a carry-on, my dog and her kennel (two sizes too large, thanks to DEFRA regulations!) and will have a nice long day ahead of me to worry about! I cannot wait!
But that is in the future. For today, all I have to worry about is getting all this stuff packed.
Wherever you are, I hope that you're having a great day!
Don Bergquist – 23 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Monday, October 22, 2007
Monday
Well, needless to say, I haven't finished everything. I have lots to do still. But it is Monday so I also have to get to the office.
Saga seems to have forgiven me for the bath on Saturday. She shadowed me as I did the laundry and the ironing on Sunday. I felt like a heel not bringing her to the pub with me, but I know how the pub is on Sunday afternoons.
I was right, it was packed and there were dogs everywhere. It would have been a hassle to have her with me. I will take her next time. The morning is dawning cold and clear. I am definitely going to need the gloves for my ride, which I should really get to. I have lots to do today at the office.
Wherever you are today, I hope that you have a great day!
Don Bergquist – 22 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Saga seems to have forgiven me for the bath on Saturday. She shadowed me as I did the laundry and the ironing on Sunday. I felt like a heel not bringing her to the pub with me, but I know how the pub is on Sunday afternoons.
I was right, it was packed and there were dogs everywhere. It would have been a hassle to have her with me. I will take her next time. The morning is dawning cold and clear. I am definitely going to need the gloves for my ride, which I should really get to. I have lots to do today at the office.
Wherever you are today, I hope that you have a great day!
Don Bergquist – 22 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Diminishing
Well, the pile has diminished greatly, not entirely as I would have liked, but I am making progress.
Saga has made the connection between the piles of laundry, the cases, and the activity. She spent a good part of yesterday sleeping in the pile of laundry I had gathered on the floor of the utility room. I think she choose that because it was the warmest room in the house and Daddy was evil.
Saga was in dire need of a bath yesterday so she got one. Every time I headed down to the lower ground floor, she was sleeping in the clothing. I hated to have to put them in the washer and disturb her nap.
This afternoon I am taking a break and biking over to the pub to meet-up with some friends from Denver who are over on business. Then it is back to the grind. My goal is to have this finished by Wednesday.
Wherever you are today, I hope you're having a great weekend!
Don Bergquist – 21 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Saga has made the connection between the piles of laundry, the cases, and the activity. She spent a good part of yesterday sleeping in the pile of laundry I had gathered on the floor of the utility room. I think she choose that because it was the warmest room in the house and Daddy was evil.
Saga was in dire need of a bath yesterday so she got one. Every time I headed down to the lower ground floor, she was sleeping in the clothing. I hated to have to put them in the washer and disturb her nap.
This afternoon I am taking a break and biking over to the pub to meet-up with some friends from Denver who are over on business. Then it is back to the grind. My goal is to have this finished by Wednesday.
Wherever you are today, I hope you're having a great weekend!
Don Bergquist – 21 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Saturday, October 20, 2007
Flying South
Well, the holiday is getting off to a flying start, literally!
After six hours at the office yesterday and a whirlwind job at getting what I could get done, finished, I popped the trailer on the bike and Saga and I headed over to Yvonne's place. I know that Saga figured it out. She lay on the carpet by the radiator all morning watching me carry things past her to the ground floor. (Gee! I have a lot of stuff in the UK! It's almost as if I have been living here for a while!)
My friend, Kevin stopped by at about 13:00 and we put all the stuff into his car and waited for the car to take us to the airport. After a breakfast at the pub and a bit of time spent watching television, we headed out.
At the airport, we all got through the check-in and security checks without much ado and then it was off to the bar for a beer or two while waiting. The waxing moon rose over the airport as we awaited the plane. What a great start to what promises to be a great vacation!
That was hours ago. I am now sitting wide-awake at three in the morning. The movies have failed to hold my attention, little surprise there! I have been awake for twenty-three hours now. The woman in the next seat has been tossing, turning, and jabbing me in the ribs all evening. Nevertheless, it is my overall inability to sleep on planes that has provided me the opportunity to sit here and wonder what to write about.
Oh well, we should be on the ground in a few hours. The vacation is soon to begin in earnest!
Wherever you are today, I hope that your day is going places!
Don Bergquist – 30 October 2007 – BA Flight 57, Somewhere over Africa
After six hours at the office yesterday and a whirlwind job at getting what I could get done, finished, I popped the trailer on the bike and Saga and I headed over to Yvonne's place. I know that Saga figured it out. She lay on the carpet by the radiator all morning watching me carry things past her to the ground floor. (Gee! I have a lot of stuff in the UK! It's almost as if I have been living here for a while!)
My friend, Kevin stopped by at about 13:00 and we put all the stuff into his car and waited for the car to take us to the airport. After a breakfast at the pub and a bit of time spent watching television, we headed out.
At the airport, we all got through the check-in and security checks without much ado and then it was off to the bar for a beer or two while waiting. The waxing moon rose over the airport as we awaited the plane. What a great start to what promises to be a great vacation!That was hours ago. I am now sitting wide-awake at three in the morning. The movies have failed to hold my attention, little surprise there! I have been awake for twenty-three hours now. The woman in the next seat has been tossing, turning, and jabbing me in the ribs all evening. Nevertheless, it is my overall inability to sleep on planes that has provided me the opportunity to sit here and wonder what to write about.
Oh well, we should be on the ground in a few hours. The vacation is soon to begin in earnest!
Wherever you are today, I hope that your day is going places!
Don Bergquist – 30 October 2007 – BA Flight 57, Somewhere over Africa
Loads To Do
I'm sitting here looking at the piles of laundry I have to do. How the hell did I get so much clothing and so many things here? I have only ever had the two bags. I am afraid I have enough to fill twice the suitcases that I have.
I don't recall going home empty and returning full. Gaagh!
Well, I have to mow the back garden today (I am down to once per two weeks.) and while the laundry machine is running, I will head out for a bike ride. I guess that is the one good thing about the laundry machine taking so long.
Wherever you are today, I hope you're having a great day!
Don Bergquist – 20 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
I don't recall going home empty and returning full. Gaagh!
Well, I have to mow the back garden today (I am down to once per two weeks.) and while the laundry machine is running, I will head out for a bike ride. I guess that is the one good thing about the laundry machine taking so long.
Wherever you are today, I hope you're having a great day!
Don Bergquist – 20 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Friday, October 19, 2007
Busy Friday
Well, I have heard the decision. At the end of my current trip, I will be headed back to the states (for good). There has been no decision made (at least nobody has told me) what my job will be when I get back to the states, but I will be returning to Denver shortly after my holiday to South Africa.
I have lots to do to get ready for going home; I have for all intents and purposes been living here for the past two years and so I have gathered lots of stuff here that I need to cull (to what goes home) and clean and pack. The fact that I am going to South Africa for three weeks only makes it more difficult. I have to pack for the vacation, and then pack for home. And as I cannot (and don't want to) schlep all my stuff to South Africa and then back here and then home, I have to do two different packing jobs.
On top of that, I had a buys day at the office. It was really a busy day. Whereas I usually finish at 50 (or so) hours for the week at noon on Fridays, this afternoon, I was still at the office at 13:30. Well, Saga wants to go for a walk and then I have lots to do… I hope that wherever you are today, you're having a great day!
Don Bergquist – 19 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
I have lots to do to get ready for going home; I have for all intents and purposes been living here for the past two years and so I have gathered lots of stuff here that I need to cull (to what goes home) and clean and pack. The fact that I am going to South Africa for three weeks only makes it more difficult. I have to pack for the vacation, and then pack for home. And as I cannot (and don't want to) schlep all my stuff to South Africa and then back here and then home, I have to do two different packing jobs.
On top of that, I had a buys day at the office. It was really a busy day. Whereas I usually finish at 50 (or so) hours for the week at noon on Fridays, this afternoon, I was still at the office at 13:30. Well, Saga wants to go for a walk and then I have lots to do… I hope that wherever you are today, you're having a great day!
Don Bergquist – 19 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Cold and Clear
Wow! Yesterday was a busy one. I got to the office around six and didn't stop running until I left for lunch (eleven came really early – or seemed to) and then had a busy day after lunch and when I realized it was 18:00, I decided to go home.
Well, actually, I went for a bike ride before I went home. It was nice getting out in the cool evening air and riding the cares of the day away. Sure I know that there are wanker motorists who are out to get cyclists, but it is more relaxing to be riding than to be ducking and dodging to get in under the deadline at the office.
This morning is dawning cold and clear. I can see the stars above the houses across the road as I sit her writing this. Saga sniffed at the air outside when I opened the door. Then, convinced that it was just cold (which is better than wet – or wet and cold) she bolted out to sniff around the garden. I can hear her exploring under the palmetto.
It's mornings like this that I wish I hadn’t brought all cold weather gear home. I kind-of wish that I had a pair of gloves to wear while cycling in. But then, that is what makes the day interesting. And that is one of the things that keeps Marks & Spencer in business. If the cold is meant to stick around, I guess I’ll head out and buy a new pair.
Whever you are today, I hope that you're having a good day!
Don Bergquist – 18 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Well, actually, I went for a bike ride before I went home. It was nice getting out in the cool evening air and riding the cares of the day away. Sure I know that there are wanker motorists who are out to get cyclists, but it is more relaxing to be riding than to be ducking and dodging to get in under the deadline at the office.
This morning is dawning cold and clear. I can see the stars above the houses across the road as I sit her writing this. Saga sniffed at the air outside when I opened the door. Then, convinced that it was just cold (which is better than wet – or wet and cold) she bolted out to sniff around the garden. I can hear her exploring under the palmetto.
It's mornings like this that I wish I hadn’t brought all cold weather gear home. I kind-of wish that I had a pair of gloves to wear while cycling in. But then, that is what makes the day interesting. And that is one of the things that keeps Marks & Spencer in business. If the cold is meant to stick around, I guess I’ll head out and buy a new pair.
Whever you are today, I hope that you're having a good day!
Don Bergquist – 18 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Another Day...
The dollar is at a new low verses the pound sterling.
I got this happy news this morning as I lay listening to Radio Four coming to consciousness. The joke used to be "another day another dollar, but after taxes you're left with about 60¢" with the pound costing about $2.10 as of yesterday's closing that means that after taxes I'm left with about 25 pence.
The morning has dawned wet and cold, which somehow seems fitting, bad news seems to be better in the rain and the gloom. It was pissing down rain when I got up. The rain has since stopped so I suppose I should let Saga run out and then head out to the office.
Wherever you are today, I hope that you'll have a great day!
Don Bergquist – 17 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
I got this happy news this morning as I lay listening to Radio Four coming to consciousness. The joke used to be "another day another dollar, but after taxes you're left with about 60¢" with the pound costing about $2.10 as of yesterday's closing that means that after taxes I'm left with about 25 pence.
The morning has dawned wet and cold, which somehow seems fitting, bad news seems to be better in the rain and the gloom. It was pissing down rain when I got up. The rain has since stopped so I suppose I should let Saga run out and then head out to the office.
Wherever you are today, I hope that you'll have a great day!
Don Bergquist – 17 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Wanker!
I have no idea why some people insist on being such wankers! They exist everywhere, but when they rear their ugly heads (or fenders, in this case) it never ceases to amaze me as to what depths they can sink to!
Today's rant is brought to you by the wanker who decided to hit me while riding my bike yesterday! I've tried to pretend that he didn't see me. I've tried to pretend that he didn't see that he was passing well into the cycle lane. I've even tried to pretend that the guy wasn't a complete wanker. There is no use.
Here’s what happened: I was on my route that takes me through New Malden and over toward Richmond. I had just cleared the Fountain Roundabout in New Malden and was headed up Kingston Road in the cycle path when the wanker came up beside me and slowed-down to match my speed.
He then, very gently slipped to the left into the cycle path and nudged me with his fender. (The cycle lane I was in is in the picture to the right just beyond the bus lane; where that white van is that is just passing Balgowan Close.)
Having squeezed me all the way to the curb, nudging me over when I tried to keep rolling, and finally forcing me to squeeze the breaks rather than allowing him to completely crush me against the curb and unseat me, I stopped. This apparently accomplished his goal, for once I was stopped, he sped off.
I know that the moment I tell my friends about this today, the question is going to be: Did you get his registration number? My answer is, sadly, no. I just stared in shock and disbelief at the guy as he sped off and turned right into the next estate. I just could not believe someone would intentionally nudge a biker off the road! What a wanker!
Wherever you are today, I hope that you’re not faced with wankers today!
Don Bergquist – 16 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Today's rant is brought to you by the wanker who decided to hit me while riding my bike yesterday! I've tried to pretend that he didn't see me. I've tried to pretend that he didn't see that he was passing well into the cycle lane. I've even tried to pretend that the guy wasn't a complete wanker. There is no use.
Here’s what happened: I was on my route that takes me through New Malden and over toward Richmond. I had just cleared the Fountain Roundabout in New Malden and was headed up Kingston Road in the cycle path when the wanker came up beside me and slowed-down to match my speed.
He then, very gently slipped to the left into the cycle path and nudged me with his fender. (The cycle lane I was in is in the picture to the right just beyond the bus lane; where that white van is that is just passing Balgowan Close.)Having squeezed me all the way to the curb, nudging me over when I tried to keep rolling, and finally forcing me to squeeze the breaks rather than allowing him to completely crush me against the curb and unseat me, I stopped. This apparently accomplished his goal, for once I was stopped, he sped off.
I know that the moment I tell my friends about this today, the question is going to be: Did you get his registration number? My answer is, sadly, no. I just stared in shock and disbelief at the guy as he sped off and turned right into the next estate. I just could not believe someone would intentionally nudge a biker off the road! What a wanker!
Wherever you are today, I hope that you’re not faced with wankers today!
Don Bergquist – 16 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Monday, October 15, 2007
Monday On The Move
There is an odd light this morning.
It is early morning and I am sitting at my computer with my yogurt and muesli, reading my email and writing my blog.
The temperatures are warm enough that I have left the back door open while I sit here enjoying the last of my breakfast, but I can tell that it is at that weird border – it is too warm to wear a jacket during my morning ride, but too chill to be comfortable without it.
I wish I had known I would be here when fall started again. Since the plan was that I was to be returning to Denver, I have most of my warmer clothing back at the house in Lakewood. I do not have a single sweater here; it would be nice to have one.
But I started with the light. It must be the light layer of mist that is bouncing the light from the streetlamps around but the garden seems to have a glow to it. It's not as if it's actually foggy, but it is not clear either. It reminds me of some of the mornings camping in the Great Smokey Mountains when I was a kid. It is that kind of a morning!
I half-expect my sister to come in any minute telling us that a bear ate Schatzie. But that is another story. The air even has that distinct smell of wood-smoke to it. Some of the neighbors have been using their fireplaces.
Sitting here and remembering camping with my family as a child is fun but it is not getting things done. Since I have decided that I didn’t need to work this past weekend, I have no idea what my inbox looks like and so I should probably get moving. Something tells me this is going to be a long week!
Wherever you are today, I hope that your Monday is a good one!
Don Bergquist – 15 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
It is early morning and I am sitting at my computer with my yogurt and muesli, reading my email and writing my blog.
The temperatures are warm enough that I have left the back door open while I sit here enjoying the last of my breakfast, but I can tell that it is at that weird border – it is too warm to wear a jacket during my morning ride, but too chill to be comfortable without it.I wish I had known I would be here when fall started again. Since the plan was that I was to be returning to Denver, I have most of my warmer clothing back at the house in Lakewood. I do not have a single sweater here; it would be nice to have one.
But I started with the light. It must be the light layer of mist that is bouncing the light from the streetlamps around but the garden seems to have a glow to it. It's not as if it's actually foggy, but it is not clear either. It reminds me of some of the mornings camping in the Great Smokey Mountains when I was a kid. It is that kind of a morning!
I half-expect my sister to come in any minute telling us that a bear ate Schatzie. But that is another story. The air even has that distinct smell of wood-smoke to it. Some of the neighbors have been using their fireplaces.
Sitting here and remembering camping with my family as a child is fun but it is not getting things done. Since I have decided that I didn’t need to work this past weekend, I have no idea what my inbox looks like and so I should probably get moving. Something tells me this is going to be a long week!
Wherever you are today, I hope that your Monday is a good one!
Don Bergquist – 15 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Sunny Sunday
I didn't find what I was looking for yesterday, but that's okay. I have a couple more weekends to do so… and there is always today!
Today it is gorgeous out! The morning has been so nice that I cannot believe I spent most of it doing my personal bookkeeping! Grrr! But it had to be done. Every once-in-a-while, you have to take the time to do the things that have to be done.
Now that I have finished balancing all my accounts and I know what I have to spend, I am planning on getting on the tube and going into London to find shoes. I have plans to meet-up with some friends to get dinner later on. So now, it is time to walk to the park with Saga so that she can re-assert her ownership of it and then I'm outta here.
Wherever you are today, I hope you have an excellent day!
Don Bergquist – 14 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Today it is gorgeous out! The morning has been so nice that I cannot believe I spent most of it doing my personal bookkeeping! Grrr! But it had to be done. Every once-in-a-while, you have to take the time to do the things that have to be done.
Now that I have finished balancing all my accounts and I know what I have to spend, I am planning on getting on the tube and going into London to find shoes. I have plans to meet-up with some friends to get dinner later on. So now, it is time to walk to the park with Saga so that she can re-assert her ownership of it and then I'm outta here.
Wherever you are today, I hope you have an excellent day!
Don Bergquist – 14 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Safari Preparations
I've been reading the guidebooks and have come to the realization that I do not have all the right gear for my coming holiday in South Africa. There are lots of things that I have heard from Angie and Terry that we will be doing that, looking in the books, it seems will require a lot of walking.
Since I do not walk a lot (I ride… I have problems with my knee and my ankle since I took that fall a few years back) I do not have my good walking shoes here and I should probably get some before heading out. (I want them broken-in before I start wearing them a lot.)
That is one of my things to do today. Other than that, I want to do some poking around in book shops for something to read on the plane. That and a ride, is about all I have on my agenda today. I'm going to close this here and get out there. It looks like it might rain a bit later on and I'd rather be done with my running around when it does.
Wherever you are today, I hope your weekend plans are unfolding nicely!
Don Bergquist – 13 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Since I do not walk a lot (I ride… I have problems with my knee and my ankle since I took that fall a few years back) I do not have my good walking shoes here and I should probably get some before heading out. (I want them broken-in before I start wearing them a lot.)
That is one of my things to do today. Other than that, I want to do some poking around in book shops for something to read on the plane. That and a ride, is about all I have on my agenda today. I'm going to close this here and get out there. It looks like it might rain a bit later on and I'd rather be done with my running around when it does.
Wherever you are today, I hope your weekend plans are unfolding nicely!
Don Bergquist – 13 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Friday, October 12, 2007
The Weekend Arrives
I have only three weekends left before my holiday to South Africa. It was a busy day. I got in at six and hit the ground running. By noon, I was almost done and now at one, I've just arrived home.
The day is a bit chill and I've made a bowl of vegetable soup for lunch. I'm sitting here and checking my email and waiting for Saga to finish investigating the garden. This afternoon, I have no plans.
I'll probably take a bike ride, perhaps do a bit of shopping and then maybe hit the pub. The weekend stretches before me like a banquet table. I have no plans but to graze the choices that are offered!
Wherever you are, I hope you have the time to enjoy your weekend!
Don Bergquist – 12 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
The day is a bit chill and I've made a bowl of vegetable soup for lunch. I'm sitting here and checking my email and waiting for Saga to finish investigating the garden. This afternoon, I have no plans.
I'll probably take a bike ride, perhaps do a bit of shopping and then maybe hit the pub. The weekend stretches before me like a banquet table. I have no plans but to graze the choices that are offered!
Wherever you are, I hope you have the time to enjoy your weekend!
Don Bergquist – 12 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Foggy Morning
What a morning!
I left for the office a bit early. For some reason, Saga felt it necessary to wake me up early. So I brought her out and let her spend a little time in the fog. She was invisible before she hit the grass in the garden.
As I rode up the Portsmouth road, it was like being in one of those old movies you see about Edwardian England where the country is perpetually shrouded in fog. The street lights were converted to just glowing orbs. And with the use of sodium bulbs, the color was just right… one could easily imagine they were gas lights.
The only thing missing was the rumors of something wicked stalking the streets of the village. I fought the urge to howl like a wolf to add to the setting.
When I got to the office, the fog was still clinging to the island and the mainland, but it seemed to be lighter over the river. I love mornings like this!
But then I got in and had my coffee and the day began. Buy the time I was able to get away for my lunchtime ride, the fog was practically gone. Ah! Well!
Wherever you are today, I hope that your day is filled with a bit of mystery.
Don Bergquist – 11 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
I left for the office a bit early. For some reason, Saga felt it necessary to wake me up early. So I brought her out and let her spend a little time in the fog. She was invisible before she hit the grass in the garden.
As I rode up the Portsmouth road, it was like being in one of those old movies you see about Edwardian England where the country is perpetually shrouded in fog. The street lights were converted to just glowing orbs. And with the use of sodium bulbs, the color was just right… one could easily imagine they were gas lights.The only thing missing was the rumors of something wicked stalking the streets of the village. I fought the urge to howl like a wolf to add to the setting.
When I got to the office, the fog was still clinging to the island and the mainland, but it seemed to be lighter over the river. I love mornings like this!But then I got in and had my coffee and the day began. Buy the time I was able to get away for my lunchtime ride, the fog was practically gone. Ah! Well!
Wherever you are today, I hope that your day is filled with a bit of mystery.
Don Bergquist – 11 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Busy Day
It was a crazy morning and a busy day. The morning started late because I could not drag myself out of bed. Once I did, and got Saga out for her morning ablutions, I ate a quick breakfast and then headed into the office.
With everything that is going on: trying to figure-out whether I am going home after my holiday or moving here, trying to get a new release tested, trying to make sure that Saga is well, etc., I am rushed.
Saga is doing well, she is obviously still in a bit of pain, but she has quit giving the incision so much attention. She is taking the stairs a bit slowly, but at least she is feeling well enough to come down into the kitchen and explore when I go down to cook. And by "explore" I mean "stare at me expectantly and hope that food falls from the sky onto the floor!"
Wherever you are today, I hope that your day is filled with unexpected treats!
Don Bergquist – 10 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
With everything that is going on: trying to figure-out whether I am going home after my holiday or moving here, trying to get a new release tested, trying to make sure that Saga is well, etc., I am rushed.
Saga is doing well, she is obviously still in a bit of pain, but she has quit giving the incision so much attention. She is taking the stairs a bit slowly, but at least she is feeling well enough to come down into the kitchen and explore when I go down to cook. And by "explore" I mean "stare at me expectantly and hope that food falls from the sky onto the floor!"
Wherever you are today, I hope that your day is filled with unexpected treats!
Don Bergquist – 10 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Tuesday, October 09, 2007
More Of The Same
Saga is still on the mend. Thank you all who have asked about her recovery. She is moving a lot better and seems much happier.
I've moved the kennel back down to its original position, as she does not seem to like spending so much time in the lounge. This morning, she sat obstinately in the dining room as if challenging me to make her go back upstairs when I left for work. I decided it was not worth the hassle.
Last night I went for a nice long bike ride after work (my fifteen-mile route) and did something I haven’t done in quite a while. I stopped in at the pub on a weeknight for a beer. Gee! That place is dead on Monday nights.
This morning, I was up early and as I am ready to head-off to the office and it is still a quarter 'til six, I think I will get my ride in early. It is supposed to be raining today; I don't want to chance the weatherman being right!
Wherever you are today, I hope your day is great!
Don Bergquist – 09 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
I've moved the kennel back down to its original position, as she does not seem to like spending so much time in the lounge. This morning, she sat obstinately in the dining room as if challenging me to make her go back upstairs when I left for work. I decided it was not worth the hassle.
Last night I went for a nice long bike ride after work (my fifteen-mile route) and did something I haven’t done in quite a while. I stopped in at the pub on a weeknight for a beer. Gee! That place is dead on Monday nights.
This morning, I was up early and as I am ready to head-off to the office and it is still a quarter 'til six, I think I will get my ride in early. It is supposed to be raining today; I don't want to chance the weatherman being right!
Wherever you are today, I hope your day is great!
Don Bergquist – 09 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Monday, October 08, 2007
Another Monday
The weekend was a restful one. Not one with a lot of sleep, but restful. I didn’t get a lot of sleep because Saga kept coming up to the bed and jumping on it. I'm think she decided that if she couldn't sleep because of the pain she must be feeling (despite the medications she is still on) that I wouldn't sleep either.
Thursday night and Friday night were the worst. Saturday, she decided to just wake me up at 03:00… This morning, I awoke without having had my sleep interrupted. I think she is feeling better.
She is eating well. This morning I made here what is essentially a hot-dish. (Minnesota cuisine for Saga's Breakfast.) The vet has recommended that I feed her bland table food for a few days so I have been cooking for her all weekend. And when he said bland, Minnesota food naturally sprang to mind.
I haven't seen a single can of Campbell's soup over here so I had to make the gravy for the hot dish without the aid of Cream of Mushroom soup. Today's recipe was to mix some rice with some chicken stock and some cubed chicken and vegetables and cook it until the rice was done. She gobbled it down. Good thing too since her pain pill was buried in it!
One good thing about her eating this way is that I can (with impunity) feed her leftovers. The bad thing about it is that I have stodgy food cooking every meal when I am trying to eat more healthily. Oh well…
Wherever you are today, I hope your week starts out well!
Don Bergquist – 08 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Thursday night and Friday night were the worst. Saturday, she decided to just wake me up at 03:00… This morning, I awoke without having had my sleep interrupted. I think she is feeling better.
She is eating well. This morning I made here what is essentially a hot-dish. (Minnesota cuisine for Saga's Breakfast.) The vet has recommended that I feed her bland table food for a few days so I have been cooking for her all weekend. And when he said bland, Minnesota food naturally sprang to mind.
I haven't seen a single can of Campbell's soup over here so I had to make the gravy for the hot dish without the aid of Cream of Mushroom soup. Today's recipe was to mix some rice with some chicken stock and some cubed chicken and vegetables and cook it until the rice was done. She gobbled it down. Good thing too since her pain pill was buried in it!
One good thing about her eating this way is that I can (with impunity) feed her leftovers. The bad thing about it is that I have stodgy food cooking every meal when I am trying to eat more healthily. Oh well…
Wherever you are today, I hope your week starts out well!
Don Bergquist – 08 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Sunday, October 07, 2007
Shopping Success
Yesterday afternoon, I met-up with a friend in town and we took the tube to Camden Town. Once there, we walked through the street markets and poked around in a couple shops. Fritz and Janine were right; Camden Town is a funky place. Some of the shops are truly – I think "interesting" is the adjective I am going to pick here.
There are Goth shops, and tattoo parlors everywhere. One shop catered to people who wanted medieval costumes, and there were a number of second-hand clothing stores. One store was noteworthy because of the proprietor. The store catered to all things heavy metal. The proprietor stood in the front entry to the shop belting-out the song that was blasting out of the speakers at the entrance to the shop; his hair flailing as he did his head-banging thing.
Before I started-out, I had set my budget. I knew that I wanted to spend no more that £100.00 but could go as high as £125.00. This was one of the reasons I had brought a friend along. Pieter had two jobs. 1) Don't let the salesperson talk me into a coat that doesn't look good on me. 2) Don't let me spend more than I had set as my upper limit. So, after lunch at one of the local pubs, we set-out to buy me a coat.
The shopping trip was a success. I found a really nice coat that would have cost at least $350.00 back home that I picked up for £120.00. It is a black, lambskin overcoat. There was one that was a bit nicer and made of cowhide, but I just couldn’t bring myself to spend nearly £200.00 for a coat! In the end, I talked the proprietor of the shop from the £185.00 down to the £120.00 I paid. Incidentally, my friend bought himself a coat as well.
I now have a new coat which will come in handy whether I return home to Colorado or not. (With all the weight I have lost over the past year, my old overcoat no longer fits me.)
Wherever you are this weekend, I hope any projects you have set-out to do have completed successfully.
Don Bergquist – 07 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
There are Goth shops, and tattoo parlors everywhere. One shop catered to people who wanted medieval costumes, and there were a number of second-hand clothing stores. One store was noteworthy because of the proprietor. The store catered to all things heavy metal. The proprietor stood in the front entry to the shop belting-out the song that was blasting out of the speakers at the entrance to the shop; his hair flailing as he did his head-banging thing.
Before I started-out, I had set my budget. I knew that I wanted to spend no more that £100.00 but could go as high as £125.00. This was one of the reasons I had brought a friend along. Pieter had two jobs. 1) Don't let the salesperson talk me into a coat that doesn't look good on me. 2) Don't let me spend more than I had set as my upper limit. So, after lunch at one of the local pubs, we set-out to buy me a coat.
The shopping trip was a success. I found a really nice coat that would have cost at least $350.00 back home that I picked up for £120.00. It is a black, lambskin overcoat. There was one that was a bit nicer and made of cowhide, but I just couldn’t bring myself to spend nearly £200.00 for a coat! In the end, I talked the proprietor of the shop from the £185.00 down to the £120.00 I paid. Incidentally, my friend bought himself a coat as well.
I now have a new coat which will come in handy whether I return home to Colorado or not. (With all the weight I have lost over the past year, my old overcoat no longer fits me.)
Wherever you are this weekend, I hope any projects you have set-out to do have completed successfully.
Don Bergquist – 07 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Saturday, October 06, 2007
Good News!
Saga Roo had her follow-up visit with the vet this morning. The vet gave her an inspection and pronounced her condition as excellent. She is healing well from the surgery and they are happy with her progress.
She has not been licking as much and, although she is a bit more moody than normal, she seems to be recovering well. If I can get her to go for a walk today we'll go down to the park for a walk.
This afternoon, a friend of mine and I are going into Camden Town to do a little shopping. My best friend when he was here said that he'd found a good store for inexpensive leather goods. I want to look for a coat. But first, I had better get a bike ride in.
So, now I will be heading out for a ride before hooking-up with my friend. Saga is sleeping on the couch, the food and water bowls are full and she is looking peaceful. I hope this lasts.
Wherever you are today, I hope that you're having a great day!
Don Bergquist – 06 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey
She has not been licking as much and, although she is a bit more moody than normal, she seems to be recovering well. If I can get her to go for a walk today we'll go down to the park for a walk.
This afternoon, a friend of mine and I are going into Camden Town to do a little shopping. My best friend when he was here said that he'd found a good store for inexpensive leather goods. I want to look for a coat. But first, I had better get a bike ride in.
So, now I will be heading out for a ride before hooking-up with my friend. Saga is sleeping on the couch, the food and water bowls are full and she is looking peaceful. I hope this lasts.
Wherever you are today, I hope that you're having a great day!
Don Bergquist – 06 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey
Friday, October 05, 2007
End-of-Week
Saga Roo is on the mend. She is still in a bit of pain from her surgery and she absolutely hates the collar. It really stresses her out so I am going to spend as much time as I can with her, calming her. If she does not spend too much energy licking at the wound, I think I will trust her without it.
Luckily, I have the afternoon off and can spend the rest of the day with her. Tomorrow, other than my bike rides and a quick shopping trip, there is nothing on my agenda to take me away from her. But now, I need to get to the office and get moving.
Wherever you are today, I hope your week ends on a high note and that you have an excellent weekend!
Don Bergquist – 05 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Luckily, I have the afternoon off and can spend the rest of the day with her. Tomorrow, other than my bike rides and a quick shopping trip, there is nothing on my agenda to take me away from her. But now, I need to get to the office and get moving.
Wherever you are today, I hope your week ends on a high note and that you have an excellent weekend!
Don Bergquist – 05 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Thursday, October 04, 2007
Recovery
The high point in a stressful day (I worried about saga all day. It was hard to concentrate at the office) was when I called the vet after her surgery. She came through with flying colors according to what I was told. No, that's not really what I was told… I was told that "He" had come through "His" surgery with flying colors.
"I'm calling to ask about Saga." I said when the nurse answered the phone.
"Yes, sir. Let me ask the surgery nurse for you." She responded.
Moments later: "Yes, sir. I am Saga is awake and happy. He came through his surgery just fine. He is still on the drip and has already eaten. So he'll be happy to see you when you come get him."
I didn't recognize the voice as one of the vet nurses that I knew, so I was willing to bet she had not actually met Saga Roo. "Given that she was there to get spayed, I hope you mean 'She' is doing well…" I said.
The nurse chuckled and said yes; that was what she meant.
There was a bit more to the story than that which I learned when I went to get her. Apparently, she had had a little more bleeding than the vet had expected, but the vet was certain that Saga was fin and would be recovering just great.
Last night and this morning she was still feeling the after-affects of the anesthesia. She is listless and walking a bit strangely, but she will eat a bite or two. I'm headed into work early today and going to try and get home around lunch time to spend more time with her today. Poor thing! I know that this was the right thing to do as it will save her from all the trauma of having all those false pregnancies… I just wish her a quick recovery!
Wherever you are today, I hope you're having a good day!
Don Bergquist – 04 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
"I'm calling to ask about Saga." I said when the nurse answered the phone.
"Yes, sir. Let me ask the surgery nurse for you." She responded.
Moments later: "Yes, sir. I am Saga is awake and happy. He came through his surgery just fine. He is still on the drip and has already eaten. So he'll be happy to see you when you come get him."
I didn't recognize the voice as one of the vet nurses that I knew, so I was willing to bet she had not actually met Saga Roo. "Given that she was there to get spayed, I hope you mean 'She' is doing well…" I said.
The nurse chuckled and said yes; that was what she meant.
There was a bit more to the story than that which I learned when I went to get her. Apparently, she had had a little more bleeding than the vet had expected, but the vet was certain that Saga was fin and would be recovering just great.
Last night and this morning she was still feeling the after-affects of the anesthesia. She is listless and walking a bit strangely, but she will eat a bite or two. I'm headed into work early today and going to try and get home around lunch time to spend more time with her today. Poor thing! I know that this was the right thing to do as it will save her from all the trauma of having all those false pregnancies… I just wish her a quick recovery!
Wherever you are today, I hope you're having a good day!
Don Bergquist – 04 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
Surgery
Well, this morning is the morning. I just know that Saga Roo is going to hate her daddy once this is all over. Saga is going in for surgery today. She is getting spayed. I think she knows something is up because when I tried to get her out of bed this morning, she kept dodging back into bed and under the covers.
It is going to be a busy day (I have to come back to the house in a couple hours to get her and take her to the vet) so I had better get going.
Wherever you are today, I hope that you have a great day!
Don Bergquist – 03 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
It is going to be a busy day (I have to come back to the house in a couple hours to get her and take her to the vet) so I had better get going.
Wherever you are today, I hope that you have a great day!
Don Bergquist – 03 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Bark And Twigs
A friend of mine (you know who you are, Ma!) introduced me to muesli first a few years ago while on a trip to the beach. Her daughter derided her as liking to have "bark and twigs" for breakfast. The fact is, yes… it is a bit boring in that it has no marshmallows or huge gobs of sugar in it but it is really quite tasty!
Since I've been living over here, I have really gotten to the point where I want nothing more than a bowl of muesli with yogurt and a sliced piece of fruit for breakfast! (Okay, honesty alert here: I still love getting an omelet or the Full English Breakfast occasionally, but I eat my muesli almost every day!)
There is just something about having a bowl of toasted whole grains with a handful of nuts and dried fruits. It certainly gives me energy for the bike rides I take each morning. There is a note on one of the brands that I eat that suggests soaking it in milk over night for a creamy cereal… I am not sure about that, but I bet that it would make a great hot cereal, cooked like oatmeal!
Hmmm… next cold morning, I know what I am having for breakfast! But for now, it is time for me to finish this-up and head out for the office.
Wherever you are today, I hope you're having a wonderful morning!
Don Bergquist – 02 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Since I've been living over here, I have really gotten to the point where I want nothing more than a bowl of muesli with yogurt and a sliced piece of fruit for breakfast! (Okay, honesty alert here: I still love getting an omelet or the Full English Breakfast occasionally, but I eat my muesli almost every day!)
There is just something about having a bowl of toasted whole grains with a handful of nuts and dried fruits. It certainly gives me energy for the bike rides I take each morning. There is a note on one of the brands that I eat that suggests soaking it in milk over night for a creamy cereal… I am not sure about that, but I bet that it would make a great hot cereal, cooked like oatmeal!
Hmmm… next cold morning, I know what I am having for breakfast! But for now, it is time for me to finish this-up and head out for the office.
Wherever you are today, I hope you're having a wonderful morning!
Don Bergquist – 02 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
Monday, October 01, 2007
Monday, Monday
For all the problems with the weather, it was a good weekend. The weekend ended early this morning, though, when I awoke to the sound of the rain hitting the windows. The clouds had rebuilt their canopy over the city overnight and some time after midnight they opened-up.
The morning is a wet one and it is not getting better. I suppose that I will wait until six to see if the rain stops before I head into the office. If it doesn't, well, I suppose that is why I own wet gear. I can always get into my rain suit and ride in in the rain. (A prospect I am resigned to rather than looking foreword to.) Ah! Well, I guess it's time for another cup of coffee then!
Wherever you are today, I hope that you'll have a good day, the start of a great week!
Don Bergquist – 01 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
The morning is a wet one and it is not getting better. I suppose that I will wait until six to see if the rain stops before I head into the office. If it doesn't, well, I suppose that is why I own wet gear. I can always get into my rain suit and ride in in the rain. (A prospect I am resigned to rather than looking foreword to.) Ah! Well, I guess it's time for another cup of coffee then!
Wherever you are today, I hope that you'll have a good day, the start of a great week!
Don Bergquist – 01 October 2007 – Thames Ditton, Surrey, UK
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