What's a sparge bag?

When Mr Thorley retired, I started to keep a diary of how we progressed as the 'new normal' took hold. At first I did this without telling him; it was just for my own amusement. Somehow, though, it became a full-on book project. The plan is to publish in September.

Because I'm going to be out and about a bit over the coming months, I've had some business cards printed to promote the book. I went to local firm PrintNGo, and they did a great job: courteous and efficient.

I haven't had such good service from the dealership that has just provided me with a new car. I won't name and shame, but they could learn a lot from PrintNGo.

Mixed bag

What with the weather undecided and our politics in turmoil, is it any wonder that I can't settle at the moment? It's been a funny old couple of days.

Good news: one of my clients has won a national award! 

Brightkidz has been listed in the highly acclaimed 2019 NatWest SE100 Index, a national scheme that celebrates the growth, impact and resilience of successful UK social ventures. Brightkidz is a company that I've watched grow over the last 15 years. I've been involved with it from the beginning and have done various writing jobs for the team there, as well as a fair bit of cheer-leading. I'm a huge fan of what they're trying to achieve. It's a social enterprise that promotes safe, active, sustainable everyday travel for children. It provides information and quality resources for schools, local authorities, businesses and parents to support walk-to-school, cycling and road safety initiatives. Please pop over to its website here to learn more. 

Bad news: our independent bookshop is closing

Defeated by low footfall and general apathy, Bookcave Limited in Wellingborough is closing its doors for the last time tomorrow. This is very sad. I went over today to collect the few copies of my books they still had in stock and had a word with one of the owners. Part of the problem has been that people had been coming into the shop (and others in the same development) to browse while waiting for someone before going to the next-door deli for lunch. Who are these strange people who can afford coffee and an an overpriced sandwich, but can't find a couple of quid for a second-hand book? 

Could-go-either-way news: feedback on my current WIP

'It's beautifully written, but...' Oh.

How's your week going?