Back Again

A stressful couple of months here, and two weeks off work as a result. Doctor willing to give me another couple of weeks, but really, it's time to go back. Things have been bad at home, as those who know us will attest, and it has not been a good year. Good things came of it though. Dad is being properly looked after, our house is beautiful (apart from the kitchen floor, GRRRRR), the teenager is sorting himself out, adult child is being wonderful, and we have found deep and supportive friendships amongst our acquiantances and neighbours. 

Back to work tomorrow, then. Had to happen one day. Was going to practice the violin, go to daytime dance classes in Pitshanger Lane and write my blog every day, but did I?

Off to Hastings tomorrow for a three day break with Phil. Somewhere to get away. We ought to have been in Whitby this week, but the teenager wasn't well enough. Positive outcome again, though in that we have swapped our week in Whitby now, for one in November, which I imagine will be very beautiful, and we will all be healthy. We have only been in August, to date. Of course we'll be going before November, for folk week and the week after to recover. This year, Phil will be driving there...he is fortunate, having passed his test umpteen years ago and not having to take another one. He's had a few brush-up lessons with the wonderful Laura, and has practiced getting on and off the M1. We are going to share my daughter's car, and I'll be able to drive a little bit, too but not on the motorway of course.

So a lot going on, but for now, I'm back.

Driving

So, I've been having lessons for a few weeks now. Have started to see myself being able to drive, although the thought of the test fills me with dread. My teacher Laura is so good. She is so patient and encouraging. She understands, or seems to, how different people learn. So six lessons in and some progress is being made. Having not had a lesson for about 25 years, I can still execute a perfect three point turn.
The motivation is Whitby, well Whitby and possibly Pete Cooper. The two pilgrimages. I love the thought of being able to put stuff in the car and drive door to door with it. Last time we went to Whitby, we went with two violins and three small suitcases. We came back with three violins, two guitars, a fishing rod and three small suitcases. It was a stressful journey home - although very scenic. Phil has got a replacment driving licence, and can officially drive, however he hasn't driven for about 25 years!! He's going to have some brushing up sessions with Laura, and hopefully, between us, we'll be able to drive to Whitby this summer. Driving is very stressful. In negative moments I ask myself 'is it worth it?' You only need to lose concentration for a split second and you, or somebody else, or both could be dead. I would rather travel stressfully by public transport than be dead, or kill somebody as a result of a momentary lapse in concentration. You see I am trying to talk myself out of it again. Actually, I'd rather drive there and back with all our luggage and arrive at both destinations safe and sound. Millions of people manage it every day, surely I'm up to the job?