Back in my South Africa lifetime, the day arrived when the doc uttered those dreaded words, “Ann, you have to give up drinking alcohol.” “Oh!” “Yes. If you don’t, you will die. And soon.” Well that was squarely to the point, so after going straight to the pub for a consolatory drink, the very next … Continue reading THE PETIT FOUR ENCOUNTER
Crazy Tales
Short tales, usually of woe or stupidity, involving one (usually me) or more members of the Patras family.
Black Friday (or how to empty a septic tank)
So yesterday wasn’t Black Friday for me, it was Frenetic Phone-call Friday. I received more calls that morning than I normally get in a week! It started at 08:25 when Brad phoned me, though I suppose I’d better give you a bit of background first. Our septic tank needed emptying. Now I bet that encourages … Continue reading Black Friday (or how to empty a septic tank)
Featured
The Trouble with Dogs
I’d had a fairly successful day. Been for a haircut, did some editing of my latest book, managed a modicum of success with revamping one of the sketches for said book. I even cooked us (Ziggy, Leon and myself) a lovely super - my version of southern fried chicken with special coleslaw and a few … Continue reading The Trouble with Dogs
The Tail of Richard
I was recently reminded by a friend, of an email I sent out some years ago, which I re-read (yes, I’m an email-hoarder - thank goodness!) and have decided to now share with you. My generosity, you see, knows no bounds. 18 August 2013 Dear Friends, I’m having a bit of a problem with some … Continue reading The Tail of Richard
Cemetery Celebrations
I swear on my life – which I value greatly – the article which is the subject of this story was genuinely in our local press a while back. I simply could not pass up a chance like this. I almost fell off my chair when I read a headline in the Lifestyle section of … Continue reading Cemetery Celebrations
Small Black Plastic Gubbins
I had a lovely Christmas, thank you for asking. It was relatively quiet, mostly due to the fact that Brad was missing. He and his girlfriend are in South Africa where they are spending Christmas at Mabalingwe Game Lodge with her family. I had a phone call this morning (Boxing Day) from a ‘Police Sergeant … Continue reading Small Black Plastic Gubbins
FOR SKIN AS SOFT AS A BABY’S…?
I’ve always thought I was pretty good with colours. I mean, I know the difference between lilac and purple, red and maroon, green and blue obviously, as well as black and brown. And I definitely know the difference between grey and blonde. I just needed to make this perfectly clear before I continue. I was … Continue reading FOR SKIN AS SOFT AS A BABY’S…?
