On Monday I had picked up some cheap walking kit, given I was likely to be based in the countryside for some time. So, Tuesday morning, I kitted myself out like a walking advertisement for Decathalon and headed out. It was only 4 or 5 miles, and untaxing, but it was a joy to be outside in the morning mist. I think I only passed 5 or 6 people coming the other way on the cycle path and along the riverbank. I treated myself to a somewhat healthy breakfast on the wander back (again, a marked change, previously I would have tore into a full English) and then came home to get a few work things done.
For my 50th birthday, friends had purchased tickets for the hospitality lounge at Bristol City for a match. Due to travel plans, this had gone unused to date, and already had to be rolled over for one season. However, I was now back, we had West Brom visiting for a tight promotion tussle under the floodlights, and we were all about. My friend got on the case, and at short notice, sorted us for the game. Being cheap English people, we obviously arrived dead on opening time to get maximum VFM. The only thing we didn't bring were our Alan Partridge buffet plates.
Whether by luck or by design, I was seated next to Bristol City legend Paul Cheesley, who now hosts these events. His is a name likely unknown to most people, but he holds a special place for City fans, being an unfortunate case of what might have been. He was an engaging host, and it turned out that back I was a kid, we lived on the same road. As a bonus, one of the ex-players invited back for the night was Bob Taylor, another City legend. Bob also proved to be an absolute gem,
Back to the game, we blitzed West Brom, scoring 3 times in the opening 20 mins, and were in complete control. Then, in true City style, we conceded twice in the 2nd half, and clung on for dear life. It was a win to be savoured. And closed out an enjoyable day that took me away from the crap for the duration.
I stayed overnight with a friend before heading back in the morning. I had a day of work, and trying to chase down various issues with doctors and insurers. None of the latter got resolved to satisfaction, and it proved most frustrating,
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