It would appear that I’ve jumped the gun regarding my eye surgery. I had initially thought I was having the surgery in early March, however the confirmation letter states this is simply an initial consultation. I’ve already spent close to 3 hours having tests, and checks done by the local optician, what more can they need to do? They further state that I can’t drive after the hospital check-up as they ‘may’ use the special eyedrops during the consultation. I’m able to get a bus directly to the hospital, however they only run 3 a day; on the way back, I’ll need to walk half a mile to the nearest bus stop to get a bus home. Bummer. They don’t say, at this time, how long I’ll need to wait for the actual surgery though I hope to get a better idea after or during the consultation. On the plus side, I’ll be able to drive to my neurology appointment a few days later. Swings and roundabouts…

After a few bad nights’, Wednesday I awoke and was shocked to note I’d been asleep for almost 9 hours. Bliss! It made such a difference to my energy levels that day. Thursday, early, wasn’t so good thanks to my delightful neighbours; they woke me multiple times after 3am. Friday they woke me at 3.40am screaming and throwing things. My body was in flight or fright mode, my heart was pounding; it took me ages to fall asleep again. I love neighbours, don’t you? I dream of a remote house with no neighbours, no traffic, no noise… Maybe a Ship out on the sea would actually suit me in real life. Imagine being rocked to sleep in my hammock each night, no neighbours for miles. It would need to be a fairly calm sea and we know they don’t happen too often. Ah well.

In other news the roads this week, although busy, have been devoid of idiots though I was mildly irritated to be stuck in a queue behind a cement mixer travelling at barely 20mph. I paid a visit to a supermarket 3 miles away, and feeling ‘brave’ managed the journey home sans sat nav; I’m getting there. We’ve had some nice food, including beef steeped in stout. Thursday is a long day for my son, so I make a meal that can be easily reheated. The dish takes hours for the meat to be tender, then I let it cool. I reheated it once he was home, made some dumplings which he found very interesting – how little balls of flour and vegetable suet become these fluffy balls of deliciousness is a delight – served with baby new potatoes. Delicious, if I say so myself.

Friday I’ll finish vacuuming the upstairs; I’m taking it slow and pacing myself which is easier on my back. If the forecast is correct, I’ll shin up the rigging and get some washing out. The past 2 days, I’ve managed to all but dry both lots of bedding outdoors in the sun; a quick finish in the tumble dryer, and they’re good to be put away. It’s been a little cold here, and Friday morning we have a mild frost, however the sunshine is a real treat. The gravel bed has sprouted numerous green shoots, and I’m excited to see what they are and hope they flower before too long.

Almost the weekend again; have a good one, hopefully filled with sunshine.