...happened to me on the way back from the cinema.  A group of teenagers passed me, and as they passed one of them shouted "Oi, mate you look like a teacher!"  For some reason I turned laughing and said "A teacher?  If only my life was that exciting!"  It amused me all the way to the bus stop.

And got me thinking.  I might be merely a public servant, but I have had an exciting life... leastways, there's been plenty of sex in the last twelve years...

And there's still life in the old dog yet - it's just that the pause button is set for the moment.

It still affects me.  The tour of "Treasure Island" that Russ was due to be on was in Nottingham until yesterday.  I went to the theatre to pick up copies of the programme for madamemish and myself; there was a tribute, albeit brief, to Russ on the front page.  It brought a swell of emotion up through me and as I walked through the city, I saw Russ's haunts everywhere.  Not bad, for a city that he actually disliked living in for nigh on 20 years. 

But I'm still here and I try to move on; battered and bloodied that I still feel.  I still hurt from not being able to see all the people I'd like to in the US - with the world economy going to hell in a handcart, it becomes depressingly less likely.  I can't cut off completely; there's too much love out there to lose.  I just need someone closer to home - or some minor miracle.  Miracles don't happen, so the other option is the one I have to explore.  Right now, I feel very much aligned with the Doctor - a huge "family" out there but still alone...

There may be changes afoot; I'm trying for a number of opportunities at work which may mean I move again.  Or I may not.  It's in the lap of the gods and my pessimism indicates that I will continue at the same grade, living out of a room in the 'burbs for the foreseeable future.

Or I may not.  That's the joy of the future and the curse of the future.  Nobody knows.

Black tea 'soothes away stress'.

Tea 'healthier' drink than water.

Milk and sugar?  Or just lemon?  I'll get the kettle on...