Funny old week

My brother Matt is here, looking strict - taking care of things while Bob away in blighty and me in hospital in Carcassonne. I was expecting stents but had a mouth/teeth infection so couldn't be done and I'm back in Esperaza,  have to go back to hospital when well enough. So you can visit then.

Matt and I had dinner at La Chapaire last night (gave him a break from cooking, which he does v well) That was fun; fairly crowded but still well-run. I had a tiny glass of wine, the first in a long time, and this morning I feel like an old stoner.

My time in the hospital acted as an (un)dress rehearsal and I am now competent to address the many issues of Bon pour Transport, lost mutuelle evidence, lost carte de sejour (photo good enough for customs to and from Engerland, not for the hospital-) The handiest hint I can offer anyone going in is to get a Samu - that's the taxi/ambulance lot here - who has a gentle and kindly driver, who will guide you through all the processes and deliver you to the right ward. Mine was called Roman, blessings on him - and indeed to the many friends and contacts who aided and abetted especially Marc Antoine.

Many plusses because of this experience. My French is a lot better and my lovely room mate Huguette (aged 90, button bright) complemented me on it :) The nurses liked my hair, which Id been thinking of cutting and now won't.