War!

As one door gently clicks shut behind me, another swings open, leaving me no option but to walk on. It looks fairly bright out there, but don't think for one moment I haven't noticed another year lost...or is that another golden year of wonderful memories and experiences gained?

I'll soon be facing life as a 59 year old. It sounds quite old and I can scarce resist the temptation to count how many years might still be left in the pot.

I see storm clouds in the distance but perhaps its my failing eyesight. Maybe they'll dissipate if they are real. If not, there'll be a silver lining or two.

No worries! I've gained more than I've lost. I'm ready for whatever is thrown at me.

The year may have ended in sickness, but it didn't mask the happy family time we had. We are exhausted and unprepared for a seemingly sudden return to the rigours of normality, but what the heck!

Bev is at work today for the first time this year and I've decided to start and finish a job that I know will crack her face with the biggest smile. It may be my last day of holiday, but it's worth the sacrifice.

MIL...short for mother in law, in case others are as confused as Karen, usually drags her dripping shopping trolley through the hall and kitchen into her carpeted living room. This infuriates an already bad-tempered Bev (just kidding!)

Today, I will clear under the stairs and build a cupboard just for the trolley.

No more tram lines in the carpet. No more chipped paint as a result of poor manoeuvring. No more dents in the fridge door. No more clutter in her bathroom...yes, that's where she keeps it. Bev will no longer feel compelled to hire a cleaner every time MIL has visitors.

Change doesn't come cheap. MIL will kick against progress. My name will be synonymous with the dirt I'm trying to avoid on her carpet. There will be glances heading in my direction that could be mistaken for missiles and my impending birthday may be blighted with the lack of a present.

Perhaps war isn't the best way to start a new year, but the season of goodwill has ended regarding MIL and her out-of-control trolley.

I'll post a photo later today if the campaign is successful.

Success!

Still bits to do, unfortunately.