To The Start of Some New Adventures

It’s my annual holiday with the missus for our wedding anniversary. I may not write a blog for every day of it, but I will keep you: up to date with the comings and goings through the next roughly two weeks.

Just before I get started a recent update:

I have managed to work out a simple way of having to go out at least once every three weeks minimum. I joined the library. The three-week period is the length of time I can borrow the book. I know I can renew it online, but it seems more fun this way. Also, if I learn to read quicker than I can, at the moment, I can go more often.

Books

At the end of the day: I am more than capable; to get nearly any book I want, either in a physical or digital copy. But this way, I can search online, try and find the book and then go to the nearest library to collect it, little mini adventures to get me out of the house.

It has been a while since I visited a library. Some things have changed. Did you know? In 2009 The government passed a policy to connect all of the libraries in the UK. You can join one library and have access to all of them. Four separate countries. That is awesome.

But it’s the library. I know, I know. The concept is old-fashioned, but the idea is sound. It’s not the most impressive thing in the world. But it’s something for me to do. And I like to read. I get the chance to get some fresh air, a little exercise. Maybe I get to talk to people I don’t know. Umm… That might be a bit too far. We will see.

So What Did I Do?

After making the decision to join a library, I had to work out how it all works now since I hadn’t been to one in about fifteen or so years. Going online, I found out through the government website that sent me to my area’s council. They had all of the information about the libraries closest to me. They also have an app called My Libray App. Original, I know.

To get the full use of it. You have to sign up on the website.

When you are ready, you go to the library of your choice and collect your library card.

The library card is not “A” card but three. It comes in a booklet. Similar to a bus pass card holder, you can separate and place where ever you need them.

I chose the Grays Library inside the Thameside Theatre. I asked my wife if she was interested in joining me. Begrudenly she said yes. But I think afterwards she was enjoying the idea. We would have a sort of. “Date Day” before she started work.

Give Me My Card

Showing up at the front desk, I presented my email. A little while later. I was handed my new library card. The wife was next. I must admit. I was happy with the whole act of it all. The wife… Meh!

I was after a particular book. The librarian helped me find it. Then we spent some time wandering around. I ended up with two books, and surprisingly, the wife managed to find one as well. I was taught how to use the self-service/ checkout machine. When the wife was ready, I showed her how to use it.

The library doesn’t seem that big. They have a large children’s section. The rest of the library appears limited. I only checked the ground floor, so I don’t know what else is available. But I managed to get what I wanted, so I am okay for now.

Some Sad News

We must sadly report; that we have lost a dear friend. We have known for the past nine or so years. It has been there for our woes and tribulations. Making sure we were dressed cleanly and getting rid of those nasty marks. We must say adieu to our dear friend, the Washing Machine.

And we say hello to our new cleaning champion. Scratchy!

The wife doesn’t like change. It will be a while before she is thoroughly comfortable.