Tigger returned to work today and, as she is working the late shift, I shall not see her again until about 7 pm. Fortunately, I have a few tasks cut out for me that will at least occupy the morning.

The long-suffering shopping trolley

The first task was to collect the laundry that we deposited at the shop on Monday. We left the trolley bag and kept the skeleton to use in shifting boxes and bags into store (as recounted in previous posts). The frame has broken in two places, meaning that we will probably have to buy a new one. Today’s trip to fetch the laundry is thus likely to be its last.

Clouds snd no sun

According to the weather forecast, we should be enjoying cloudy sun this morning. Can you see the sun in the above scene? Nor can I.

The cat in the window

As I passed through Myddelton Square, I of course looked out for the two cats. My luck was in as one of them was at the window. He gave me a non-committal feline stare.

Angelz Dry Cleaners

We currently use Angelz in Arlington Way for our laundry. So far, they have done a creditable job and not lost any items. I took this photo from across the road when I stopped to put on my face-mask before entering the premises.

Trolley loaded

In the shop, I had to install the trolley bag, heavy and inflated with laundry, and secure it to the frame with bungees. The man in the shop helped me and I was grateful to him as I might not have managed it on my own.

Cutting through Myddelton Square Gardens

The trolley wasn’t as heavy as I had feared it might be but I went slowly and stopped to rest a couple of times, especially on the uphill section of the walk. I cut through Myddelton Square Gardens, though I am not sure this saves much in terms of distance, It was pleasant, though.

I reached home eventually and sat down to rest for a while. I am not ashamed to admit that the unaccustomed activity of the last few days moving sometimes heavy boxes into store has tired me. I will no doubt bounce back but for now am I taking things gently.

The sun appears

After a little rest, I set out on task number 2. This was to visit Kings’ Chemists in Amwell Street to pick up repeat prescriptions for both of us. By now, the sun was taking note of the weather forecast and showing itself! The air was pleasantly warm as a result.

Kings’ Chemists

Here I am arriving at the chemist’s. You can also see another important establishment further down the road. Clue: note the red canopy!

Gone are the days when you would go to the doctor’s surgery to pick up a paper prescription and then take this to a pharmacy to be dispensed. Now you nominate a pharmacy and the surgery sends the prescription to it electronically. By the time you arrive, the items have been packaged ready for you to collect.

Sitting outside Myddelton’s deli

I don’t usually have coffee out by myself but as it was sunny and even fairly warm, I decided to treat myself. It was pleasant sitting in the sun and watching activity in the street (though it would have been even better if Tigger had been there too).

The Never-Give-Up tree has gone

As I passed the end of Inglebert Street, a sad surprise awaited me: what I called the Never-Give-Up tree (it had been cut down to a mere stump but had continued growing branches and leaves) had finally been removed. I shall miss it and watching for new growth each time I passed. I hope they at least plant a new tree in its place.

The Curvaceous Tree

Sadness at the disappearance of the Never-Give-Up tree made me appreciate even more my long-time favourite, the Curvaceous Tree which I “discovered” and grew to love during our lockdown walks. I enjoy seeing its twisting branches, revealed by winter, as I shall enjoy seeing it dressed again in green by summer.

Fara Charity Shop

After a little rest, I performed my last outdoor task for today which was to take two bags of donated items to the charity shop. For this, I went to Fara in Pentonville Road. They specialise in clothing – some of which they create or remodel themselves – but they accept all kinds of items for resale.

Having completed my tasks for today, I returned home where I had lunch and composed this post. I have of course been in touch with Tigger by text to keep her informed of progress. I now look forward to her returning home this evening. I will try to keep myself busy in the meantime.