Landmarks

Today marks the 75th anniversary of my parents’ marriage.  I still wear the ring she wore from that day.  Yesterday we learned that Vera Lynn had popped off at 103.  I heard her sing her trademark song at the Festival Hall back in the 90s when she received her Honorary DMus.  My mother received her degree during the same ceremony: there were no graduation ceremonies in wartime, and London University had spotted a fund-raising opportunity. I remember how disappointed Mum was that she didn’t recognise any of her fellow graduands.  Still, by and large a good experience.

I learn today that my sister-in-law is pretty much out of it.  She is asleep much if not all of the time, and though she can’t swallow easily, she can still take liquidised food.  John seems to be coping admirably, and tells me they’ve decided that she’ll stay at home.  All very sad.

On a more prosaic note, I drove down to the village this afternoon for essential supplies (frozen peas and white wine).  Though the key fob worked the car door locks, the starter couldn’t see it, so I’d to come back indoors for the spare.  When I got back, I turned to the owner’s manual to find out how to change the battery.  Hopeless.  I then googled [Make, Model] key battery change, and instantly found a how-to video.  By some miracle, I had a spare battery of the correct type, so we’re back in business.        Having now been let down three times by key fob batteries, it’s time I kept spares in the glove box - and in the garage.