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Looking back

On principle I do not look back but this morning the woman with whom I was playing tennis made me do just that.  She asked if I could get her some 'orlik'.  It took some time for me to figure out that she was asking for 'Horlicks'.   I barely remember its existence so how come a French person is familiar with this strange item?  I have never had Horlicks but I believe it is some sort of drink.  Apparently Fabienne was given it when she did a school exchange many years ago.  I asked someone in the UK if it still exists and the reply was, 'didn't they give it to wounded soldiers in the first world war?' 

Monsieur Toutee's chickens got out again this morning so being a good neighbour I went out to help.  I scuttled after them ineffectively trying to capture one in my arms.  I was useless.  Whenever I got my arms round one it simply flapped its wings and flew out of them.  After several attempts I decided I was more use stopping the traffic.

All my family are coming to stay for Christmas, which means I shall have to give up my bedroom.  Where is Grandma going to sleep?  I asked my 3 year old grandson.  He thought about this and said triumphantly, 'In the bath.  But you will have to turn the shower off.'   How old do I have to get before I earn the 'respect your elders' title?

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