Category: Author

The cinema of my dreams – Was it just another surveillance job – Episode 27

I’m back home and this story has been sitting on a back burner for a few months, waiting for some more to be written.

The trouble is, there are also other stories to write, and I’m not very good at prioritizing.

But, here we are, a few minutes opened up and it didn’t take long to get back into the groove.

Chasing leads, maybe

“Who’s coming?” snapped Maury.

“Some nice men in white coats, to take you away to a dark and dank hole somewhere in this city where you may tell us what you know, or you might not survive the experience. You got one shot at the easy way, now it looks like it’s going to be the hard way.”

I had to admire her. She had gone all gung-ho on him and, frankly, it was a frightening side to her that you wouldn’t normally see, or even guess that she had.

“This is a big mistake, Jackson. I suggest you call Severin and get this straightened out very quickly.”

“I’m going to call him, eventually. After I find the USB and see what’s on it. What it is that you seem to be so desperate to get to first?”

“That’s a matter of national security.”

“I suspect it’s a matter that involves you and Severin. O’Connell was working for a man called Nobbin. He runs another department, it’s starting to sound like there are wheels within wheels, who’s part in all of this I’m yet to understand.”

“He’s after the USB too?”

“Of course. If it’s evidence against you, and or others conspiring to do God knows what, he probably needs to know so he can put a stop to it. Apparently, since no one has heard of you or your operation, I’ve been transferred to his department.”

“How do you know the information is not about him? It’s not unheard of for an agent to discovered irregularities against his commander.”

“Then let’s hope I find the USB first. And, just out of curiosity, why did you kill O’Connell. Wouldn’t it be a better idea to capture him and make sure he had the USB before you did anything irrational.”

“It wasn’t my idea.”

“That’s what most of the Nazi’s said at Nuremberg.”

There was a knock on her door.

Jan went over and opened it. It was, I thought, the wrong thing to do when we had a man as dangerous as Maury in the room.

Of course, with the benefit of hindsight, I could say it was the wrong thing to do, but at the time, even I didn’t think Severin would know what was happening to his attach dog.

Apparently, he did.

The door crashed open sending Jan into a fall that saw her head hit by the swinging door. Three men with guns came bursting in, followed by a fourth, Severin.

Severin took in the room with a single sweep, then glared at me. “You need to pick a side, and soon, Jackson.”

One of the other men cut the ties and helped Maury to his feet. He also glared at me as he left with the other two. “You’ll keep,” Maury muttered as he went past, then was gone.

Severin looked at Jan, now a crumpled heap on the floor.

“Don’t play with MI5. They never see the big picture. Maury doesn’t forget, Jackson, so there will be a reckoning later. I suggest you find a way of redeeming yourself in his eyes. Perhaps it would be better if you cut ties with Nobbin and disappeared for a while. This matter is too big for a newbie like you.”

I heard a groan by the door, Jan waking.

“Just keep out of the way, Jackson. And her, if she knows what’s good for her.”

He left, closing the door behind him.

I went over to Jan and checked to see what injuries she had other than to her pride. A gash on the side of the head, with a little blood. It would give her a huge headache though.

“I’ll get a wet towel,” I said, helping her into a sitting position.

She still looked groggy.

“What happened?”

“You answered the door before finding out who was on the other side.”

“Maury?”

“Gone. He must have signaled Severin somehow that he was in trouble, or they were tracking him. Either way, they got here rather quickly to rescue him.”

“My people?”

“Not here yet.”

I left her to find a towel and run water over one end.

When I came back, she was on her phone, having got up off the floor. She still looked quite shaken.

“Yes, sir.” was all I heard of the conversation before she disconnected the call.

“Did you call off the collection team?”

“They weren’t coming. They said apparently I had rung back to say it was a false alarm.”

“And they believed that?”

“Whoever called had my special code, so yes, they did.”

Call finished, she sat down in one of the chairs and pressed the wet part of the towel against her head.

“Next time you might consider looking first before opening the door,” I said, realizing that it was not the advice she would be looking for.

“It’s a mistake I won’t make again, I can assure you,” she said. “but, we haven’t lost him yet.”

“How so?”

“I slipped a tracker onto his clothes, not one he’ll easily recognize or find, and as we speak, he’s being tracked through outer London. We’ll soon know where he’s going, and perhaps second time lucky.”

She was more resourceful than I would normally give anyone credit for.

Now it was a matter of waiting. Would he lead us to the heart of Severin’s operation? Only time would tell.

© Charles Heath 2020

365 Days of writing, 2026 – 21

Day 21 – The nuts and bolts of grammar

…

Master English Grammar Without the Headache: Simplified Rules for Real-World Success

English grammar can feel like a labyrinth of rules, exceptions, and quirks. But what if you could cut through the complexity and focus on just the essentials? Whether you’re a language learner, a writer, or someone who wants to communicate with confidence, this post will simplify grammar basics into actionable, easy-to-remember tips. Let’s turn “how-tos” into “how-easies.”

Why Grammar Feels Overwhelming (and How to Fix It)

English grammar isn’t inherently impossible, but its irregularities and exceptions can trip anyone up. The key to mastering it lies in simplifying the basics and practising consistently. Here’s how to tackle the most critical areas with confidence.

1. Subject-Verb Agreement: Match Like Clockwork

Rule: A singular subject needs a singular verb; a plural subject needs a plural verb.

  • Singular: The cat paws at the door.
  • Plural: The cats paw at the door.

Common Mistake: Forgetting to adjust the verb when the subject is plural.

  • ❌ The team are late.
  • ✅ The team is late. (Collective nouns like team often take singular verbs.)

2. Tenses: Stay in Your Time Zone

Rule: Use the correct verb form to show when an action happened.

  • Present: I write every day.
  • Past: I wrote yesterday.
  • Future: I will write tomorrow.

Pro Tip: Tenses shift in conditionals and habitual actions.

  • Present Continuous for Future Plans: I am writing a blog post tonight.

3. Articles: “A,” “An,” and “The” Made Simple

Rule:

  • Use “a” before words starting with consonants (a book).
  • Use “an” before vowels (an apple).
  • Use “the” when referring to a specific noun (the sun).

Common Mistake: Overusing or omitting articles.

  • ❌ “I want to study history.” → ✅ “I want to study the history of art.”

4. Prepositions: Follow the Verb, Not Your Brain

Prepositions (e.g., on, in, at) often tie directly to verbs. Learn common pairs instead of second-guessing.

  • Depend on someone.
  • Wait for me.

Memory Hack: Watch movies, read books, or listen to songs to internalise how native speakers pair verbs and prepositions.

5. Punctuation: Keep It Clean

Rule of Thumb: Use commas to separate items in a list or in compound sentences.

  • “I bought bread, eggs, and milk.”
  • “I love coffee, but I hate tea.”

Quick Fix: Drop the comma before and in a list unless ending with a conjunction.

6. Commonly Confused Words: Know Your “Its” from “It’s”

Rule:

  • “It’s” = it + is (contraction: It’s raining).
  • “Its” = possession (The cat licked its paws).
  • “Your” vs. “You’re: Your book vs. You’re welcome.

Pro Tip: Replace contractions with full words to double-check.

BONUS: Practice Strategies to Build Confidence

  • Read Daily: Novels, articles, and even social media expose you to natural grammar patterns.
  • Write and Revise: Journal for 10 minutes a day; review and correct your own work.
  • Leverage Tools: Use grammar-check apps (like Grammarly) as a starting point, not a crutch.
  • Embrace Mistakes: Every error is a chance to learn. Ask for feedback or use free online tools like Grammar Blogs.

Final Thoughts: Grammar is a Tool, Not a Chainsaw

English grammar isn’t here to trip you up—it’s a tool to express your ideas clearly. Focus on the core rules and gradually expand your skills. With practice, what once felt complex will become second nature.

Remember: Native speakers make mistakes too! Confidence and clarity matter more than perfection. So write boldly, speak freely, and keep simplifying.

Got a grammar question? Drop it in the comments—we’ll tackle it together!

This blog post blends actionable advice with a lighthearted tone, making grammar less intimidating and more approachable. By focusing on practical rules and common pitfalls, readers can apply these tips immediately—no labyrinth required!

If I only had one day to stop over in – Madrid – what would I do?

One Day in Madrid? Make It Unforgettable With a Single Stop at The Prado Museum

You’ve just landed in Spain’s bustling capital for a brief, 24‑hour layover. The clock’s ticking, the city’s energy is buzzing, and you want one experience that captures the soul of Madrid without feeling rushed.

Answer: Spend the heart of your day at the Museo Nacional del Prado—the world‑renowned art palace that is, in a nutshell, the cultural heartbeat of the city.

Below is a full‑fledged guide that shows why the Prado is the ideal “one‑place” itinerary, how to squeeze the most out of your visit, and where to refuel before and after your artistic pilgrimage.

1. Why the Prado Beats All Other Options

FactorHow the Prado Excels
Iconic StatusThe Prado houses over 8,600 works, including masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, El Greco, Bosch, and Titian. It’s the museum that put Madrid on the global art map.
Central LocationSituated on Paseo del Prado, a UNESCO‑listed boulevard, it’s a short 10‑minute walk from Puerta del Sol, Atocha, and the historic centre. Perfect for quick transit.
Time‑EfficientYou can see the museum’s “highlights route” in ~2‑3 hours—an expertly curated path that ensures you don’t miss the crown jewels.
AtmosphereThe 19th‑century neoclassical building, marble staircases, and tranquil courtyards provide a serene escape from the city’s hustle—a perfect micro‑retreat during a layover.
Culinary BonusRight outside the museum are historic cafés (e.g., Café de Oriente and Café Montalbán) where you can savor a quick bite of Madrid’s famous tapas and café con leche.

In short, the Prado gives you art, architecture, history, and a taste of local life—all in one compact, easily reachable location.

2. Practicalities: Getting There & Getting In

ItemDetails
Nearest MetroLine 2 (Red) – Banco de España (2‑minute walk) or Line 1 (Light Blue) – Atocha (5‑minute walk).
Entrance Ticket€15 (adult) – includes free entry to the Royal Botanical Garden (a bonus if you have extra minutes).
Free entry on Monday‑Thursday evenings (19:00‑21:00) and on the last Saturday of each month (09:00‑14:00).
Skip‑the‑Line OptionsBuy tickets online in advance (PDF or QR code). The “Fast‑Track” ticket (€18) gives you a dedicated entry line—worth it if you land during peak tourist hours (10:00‑12:00).
Opening Hours10:00‑20:00 (Tue‑Sat), 10:00‑19:00 (Sun, Mon). Closed on Tuesdays.
Time Needed2‑3 hours for the “Highlights Route.” Add a 30‑minute coffee break if you wish.

Pro tip: If your layover lands early in the morning, head straight to the museum as soon as you clear customs. The first hour (10:00‑11:00) is usually the quietest.

3. The “Highlights Route” – A 2‑Hour Guided Walkthrough

  1. “Las Meninas” – Diego Velázquez (1656)
    Why: The quintessential Spanish masterpiece; a study in perspective and courtly intrigue.
  2. “The Garden of Earthly Delights” – Hieronymus Bosch (c. 1490‑1510)
    Why: A surreal trip through heaven, earth, and hell that sparks conversation.
  3. “The Third of May 1808” – Francisco Goya (1814)
    Why: Goya’s powerful anti‑war statement—emotionally resonant and instantly recognisable.
  4. “The Annunciation” – Fra Angelico (c. 1435)
    Why: A glimpse of early Renaissance serenity amidst the Baroque grandeur.
  5. “The Adoration of the Magi” – Titian (c. 1518)
    Why: Shows the museum’s breadth—Italian Renaissance at its vibrant best.

How to navigate: Pick up a free Map of “Highlights” at the information desk, or download the official Prado app (offline mode works with Wi‑Fi). The route is clearly signposted and takes you clockwise through the main halls, minimizing back‑track.

4. Lunch (or “Tapas‑break”) – Eat Like a Madrileño

SpotWhat to TryWhy It Fits
Café Montalbán (inside the museum’s foyer)Tortilla de Patatas + Café con lecheQuick, high‑quality Spanish staple, just steps from your next gallery.
Mercado de San Miguel (5‑minute walk)Jamón ibérico, croquetas, pimientos de padrónA foodie market with a lively atmosphere—perfect for a post‑museum stroll.
Casa Lucio (near Plaza Mayor, 10‑minute walk)Huevos rotos (broken eggs over ham)A classic Madrid dish if you have a little extra time and want to feel truly local.

If you’re watching the clock, a tapas platter at the market paired with a glass of vermut (a favourite Madrileño apéritif) will keep you under an hour.

5. Making the Most of Your Remaining Hours

Time SlotSuggested Activity
After the Prado (≈14:00‑15:30)Take a leisurely 15‑minute walk through the Retiro Park—pop into the Crystal Palace or rent a rowboat on the pond.
Early Evening (≈16:00‑18:00)Wander the Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor for a quick photo op and a final espresso.
If your flight is late (≥20:00)Return to the museum for the free evening session (19:00‑21:00) for a quieter, candle‑lit experience.

6. Insider Hacks – Avoid the “Layover Stress”

  1. Pack Light, Travel Smart – Use a small, anti‑theft day‑bag; large luggage can’t go inside the museum.
  2. Carry a Portable Charger – You’ll likely rely on the Prado app and digital tickets.
  3. Mind the “Siesta” – Some smaller cafés close around 14:30‑15:30; plan your main meal before then.
  4. Reserve a Taxi or ride-share in advance for the airport ride back—Madrid’s traffic can surge during rush hour (17:00‑19:00).
  5. Check Flight‑Status Alerts – Keep an eye on any gate changes; the museum is only a 20‑minute metro ride from both Barajas (T4) and Atocha stations.

7. The Takeaway: One Place, Endless Memories

A one‑day stopover in Madrid can feel like a sprint through a bustling metropolis. By centring your adventure around the Museo Nacional del Prado, you:

  • Absorb a micro‑history of Spain (from the Golden Age to modernism) in a single, inspiring venue.
  • Stay centrally located, allowing easy transitions to Madrid’s other iconic sites if time permits.
  • Enjoy a seamless blend of culture, cuisine, and convenience—the three pillars of any perfect travel day.

So, when the aeroplane doors open and the city’s pulse beckons, head straight for the Prado. Walk the halls where centuries of genius converse, sip a café in a historic courtyard, and leave Madrid with a story you’ll retell for years—all in a single unforgettable day.

Happy travels, and may your Madrid layover be as vibrant as a Velázquez brushstroke!

What I learned about writing – The importance of backstories for characters

This is an interesting topic to pop up, especially after the writing of the previous blog post in this series.

I always create legends for my characters, and perhaps the only planning I do for any story is that notion I should know each of the characters inside out so that I have a good idea of where they’re going to go.

There’s no point in suddenly deciding the main character has an allergic reaction to cats. All this stuff needs to be known before putting pen to paper.

Then there are locations. I’m a bit like a movie studio in that I have the script and then send out the scouts to find places to follow the story. In this case, I’m looking for locations and writing the story after I have found them.

All the background work starts to feed the story. I usually have an idea before I start, and rather than sketch it out on a running board, at this beginning stage, nothing is concrete.

Sometimes this creation process can evolve over a long time, or, in others, it could go from a spark of an idea to the first draft complete, in a month.

Like the novel I’m going to write over the course of the 365 days. Just yesterday I was working on the main character’s back story.

“Echoes From The Past”, the past doesn’t necessarily stay there


What happens when your past finally catches up with you?

…

Christmas is just around the corner, a time to be with family. For Will Mason, an orphan since he was fourteen, it is a time for reflection on what his life could have been, and what it could be.

Until a chance encounter brings back to life the reasons for his twenty years of self-imposed exile from a life only normal people could have. From that moment, Will’s life slowly starts to unravel, and it’s obvious to him that it’s time to move on.

This time, however, there is more at stake.

Will has broken his number one rule: don’t get involved.

With his nemesis, Eddie Jamieson, suddenly within reach, and a blossoming relationship with an office colleague, Maria, about to change everything, Will has to make a choice. Quietly leave, or finally, make a stand.

But as Will soon discovers, when other people are involved there is going to be terrible consequences no matter what choice he makes.

https://amzn.to/2CYKxu4

newechocover5rs

If I only had one day to stop over in – Rome – what would I do?

One Day in Rome: Making the Most of the Colosseum Experience

Rome, a city where ancient history and vibrant culture collide, can feel overwhelming in a single day. With countless landmarks vying for your attention, how do you choose just one place to make your stopover truly memorable? The answer lies in the heart of the Eternal City—The Colosseum. This iconic monument is not just a structure; it’s a portal to the past, offering a day packed with history, architecture, and a touch of Roman magic. Here’s how to turn your one day into a timeless memory.

Why the Colosseum?

The Colosseum is Rome’s most enduring symbol of imperial grandeur. Built in 80 AD, this ancient amphitheatre once hosted gladiatorial battles, epic hunts, and spectacular spectacles. Visiting it is like stepping into a living museum of Roman engineering and ambition. Unlike sprawling sites like the Vatican, the Colosseum allows you to delve deep into a singular, monumental narrative. Plus, it’s centrally located, making it a gateway to other historic treasures.

Start Your Day with a Skip-the-Line Tour

Beat the crowds and start your adventure early. Booking a skip-the-line guided tour in advance (like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill combo ticket) ensures you maximise your time and access exclusive areas like the Gladiator Hypogeum, where you can imagine the chaos of the underground staging area before battles. Early mornings (before 9 AM) are ideal for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.

Pro Tip: Opt for a VIP tour or evening tour for a more intimate experience. The Colosseum under a sunset or moonlit sky? Unforgettable.

Explore the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Adjacent to the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill are a must. Once the political and social heart of Rome, the Forum’s ruins—from the Temple of Saturn to the Arch of Titus—tell stories of emperors, senators, and citizens. Palatine Hill, where emperors like Augustus and Nero lived, offers a glimpse into imperial opulence. Let your imagination wander as you walk through marble colonnades and crumbling temples.

Hidden Gem: After your guided tour, stroll outside the Colosseum’s walls to the Appian Way or Circo Massimo Park for a quieter moment. The Colosseum’s silhouette from a distance is a photo opportunity you won’t want to miss.

Break for Lunch Like a Local

Rome isn’t just about history—it’s also about food. After your ancient adventure, indulge in a Roman classic at a nearby trattoria. Try Supplì al telefono (fried rice balls) or Cacio e Pepe near the Colosseum. The Centrale Food Market, just a 10-minute walk away, is perfect for a quick, authentic bite.

Afternoon: Hidden Treasures and Winding Alleys

Post-lunch, explore the neighbourhoods surrounding the Colosseum. Wander through Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II, an underrated square with fountains and modern flair. For a quieter alternative, visit Basilica di San Clemente, a stunning church with layers of history beneath its church (a Roman house church, and even a 1st-century Mithraic temple).

Evening: Sunset and Stories

End your day with a romantic walk around the Colosseum at sunset. The golden light casts a magical glow on the arches, and the atmosphere is electric. If time allows, catch a night tour—the guided stories under torchlight add a dramatic edge to the Colosseum’s tales.

Final Thoughts

While Rome is a city of endless wonders, the Colosseum offers a concentrated dose of what makes it unforgettable. By focusing on this singular icon—along with its nearby treasures—you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Rome’s legacy while leaving with memories of grandeur, history, and a touch of local flavour.

So, whether you’re a first-time traveller or a returning explorer, let the Colosseum be your anchor. With a bit of planning, even a fleeting day in Rome can become a chapter of your eternal story.

Buon viaggio! 🍷✨

‘What Sets Us Apart’ – A beta readers view

There’s something to be said for a story that starts like a James Bond movie, throwing you straight in the deep end, a perfect way of getting to know the main character, David, or is that Alistair?

A retired spy, well not so much a spy as a retired errand boy, David’s rather wry description of his talents, and a woman that most men would give their left arm for, not exactly the ideal couple, but there is a spark in a meeting that may or may not have been a setup.

But as the story progressed, the question I kept asking myself was why he’d bother.

And, page after unrelenting page, you find out.

Susan is exactly the sort of woman to pique his interest.  Then, inexplicably, she disappears.  That might have been the end to it, but Prendergast, that shadowy enigma, David’s ex-boss who loves playing games with real people, gives him an ultimatum, find her or come back to work.

Nothing like an offer that’s a double-edged sword!

A dragon for a mother, a sister he didn’t know about, Susan’s BFF who is not what she seems or a friend indeed, and Susan’s father who, up till David meets her, couldn’t be less interested, his nemesis proves to be the impossible dream, and he’s always just that one step behind.

When the rollercoaster finally came to a halt, and I could start breathing again, it was an ending that was completely unexpected.

I’ve been told there’s a sequel in the works.

Bring it on!

…

The book can be purchased here:  http://amzn.to/2Eryfth

…

365 Days of writing, 2026 – 21

Day 21 – The nuts and bolts of grammar

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Master English Grammar Without the Headache: Simplified Rules for Real-World Success

English grammar can feel like a labyrinth of rules, exceptions, and quirks. But what if you could cut through the complexity and focus on just the essentials? Whether you’re a language learner, a writer, or someone who wants to communicate with confidence, this post will simplify grammar basics into actionable, easy-to-remember tips. Let’s turn “how-tos” into “how-easies.”

Why Grammar Feels Overwhelming (and How to Fix It)

English grammar isn’t inherently impossible, but its irregularities and exceptions can trip anyone up. The key to mastering it lies in simplifying the basics and practising consistently. Here’s how to tackle the most critical areas with confidence.

1. Subject-Verb Agreement: Match Like Clockwork

Rule: A singular subject needs a singular verb; a plural subject needs a plural verb.

  • Singular: The cat paws at the door.
  • Plural: The cats paw at the door.

Common Mistake: Forgetting to adjust the verb when the subject is plural.

  • ❌ The team are late.
  • ✅ The team is late. (Collective nouns like team often take singular verbs.)

2. Tenses: Stay in Your Time Zone

Rule: Use the correct verb form to show when an action happened.

  • Present: I write every day.
  • Past: I wrote yesterday.
  • Future: I will write tomorrow.

Pro Tip: Tenses shift in conditionals and habitual actions.

  • Present Continuous for Future Plans: I am writing a blog post tonight.

3. Articles: “A,” “An,” and “The” Made Simple

Rule:

  • Use “a” before words starting with consonants (a book).
  • Use “an” before vowels (an apple).
  • Use “the” when referring to a specific noun (the sun).

Common Mistake: Overusing or omitting articles.

  • ❌ “I want to study history.” → ✅ “I want to study the history of art.”

4. Prepositions: Follow the Verb, Not Your Brain

Prepositions (e.g., on, in, at) often tie directly to verbs. Learn common pairs instead of second-guessing.

  • Depend on someone.
  • Wait for me.

Memory Hack: Watch movies, read books, or listen to songs to internalise how native speakers pair verbs and prepositions.

5. Punctuation: Keep It Clean

Rule of Thumb: Use commas to separate items in a list or in compound sentences.

  • “I bought bread, eggs, and milk.”
  • “I love coffee, but I hate tea.”

Quick Fix: Drop the comma before and in a list unless ending with a conjunction.

6. Commonly Confused Words: Know Your “Its” from “It’s”

Rule:

  • “It’s” = it + is (contraction: It’s raining).
  • “Its” = possession (The cat licked its paws).
  • “Your” vs. “You’re: Your book vs. You’re welcome.

Pro Tip: Replace contractions with full words to double-check.

BONUS: Practice Strategies to Build Confidence

  • Read Daily: Novels, articles, and even social media expose you to natural grammar patterns.
  • Write and Revise: Journal for 10 minutes a day; review and correct your own work.
  • Leverage Tools: Use grammar-check apps (like Grammarly) as a starting point, not a crutch.
  • Embrace Mistakes: Every error is a chance to learn. Ask for feedback or use free online tools like Grammar Blogs.

Final Thoughts: Grammar is a Tool, Not a Chainsaw

English grammar isn’t here to trip you up—it’s a tool to express your ideas clearly. Focus on the core rules and gradually expand your skills. With practice, what once felt complex will become second nature.

Remember: Native speakers make mistakes too! Confidence and clarity matter more than perfection. So write boldly, speak freely, and keep simplifying.

Got a grammar question? Drop it in the comments—we’ll tackle it together!

This blog post blends actionable advice with a lighthearted tone, making grammar less intimidating and more approachable. By focusing on practical rules and common pitfalls, readers can apply these tips immediately—no labyrinth required!

In a word: crane

Yes, it’s that huge device that is attached to a tall building and either raises or lowers building materials.  I’ve often wondered how the drive, so far up in the air can see where to pick up or drop a load.

Typically cranes are used to move large or heavy loads, like large fiberglass swimming pools from the roadside into the front or back yard.

The are train breakdown cranes, dock side cranes and broken down cranes, usually on the road in the middle of rush hour.

They used to have dog men, people who hung on grimly, going up or down with the load.  Not me when the building is sixty or seventy floors up.

There can be smaller cranes built on trucks that are for smaller jobs like lifting boats, sometimes parts of houses.  We had one near us once lifting a swimming pool into a front yard.

Then there is the crane, a bird.  Cranes are usually tall birds with long legs.

In Asia the crane symbolises happiness and eternal youth whereas in Japan the crane symbolises good fortune and longevity.

And other uses such as:

The boy craned his neck to see the batter hit a home run.  

Usually if I crane my neck, it causes days of muscular pain, ie literally the definition of a pain in the neck!

It means to distort your body or neck in order to see something more clearly, especially if you are in a bad position, like behind a pylon or tree.

It can also be used to describe a trolley with a large boom with a camera attached.

Inspiration, Maybe – Volume 2

50 photographs, 50 stories, of which there is one of the 50 below.

They all start with –

A picture paints … well, as many words as you like.  For instance:

And, the story:

Have you ever watched your hopes and dreams simply just fly away?

Everything I thought I wanted and needed had just left in an aeroplane, and although I said I was not going to, i came to the airport to see the plane leave.  Not the person on it, that would have been far too difficult and emotional, but perhaps it was symbolic, the end of one life and the start of another.

But no matter what I thought or felt, we had both come to the right decision.  She needed the opportunity to spread her wings.  It was probably not the best idea for her to apply for the job without telling me, but I understood her reasons.

She was in a rut.  Though her job was a very good one, it was not as demanding as she had expected, particularly after the last promotion, but with it came resentment from others on her level, that she, the youngest of the group would get the position.

It was something that had been weighing down of her for the last three months, and if noticed it, the late nights, the moodiness, sometimes a flash of temper.  I knew she had one, no one could have such red hair and not, but she had always kept it in check.

And, then there was us, together, and after seven years, it felt like we were going nowhere.  Perhaps that was down to my lack of ambition, and though she never said it, lack of sophistication.  It hadn’t been an issue, well, not until her last promotion, and the fact she had to entertain more, and frankly I felt like an embarrassment to her.

So, there it was, three days ago, the beginning of the weekend, and we had planned to go away for a few days and take stock.  We both acknowledged we needed to talk, but it never seemed the right time.

It was then she said she had quit her job and found a new one.  Starting the following Monday.

Ok, that took me by surprise, not so much that it something I sort of guessed might happen, but that she would just blurt it out.

I think that right then, at that moment, I could feel her frustration with everything around her.

What surprised her was my reaction.  None.

I simply asked where who, and when.

A world-class newspaper, in New York, and she had to be there in a week.

A week.

It was all the time I had left with her.

I remember I just shrugged and asked if the planned weekend away was off.

She stood on the other side of the kitchen counter, hands around a cup of coffee she had just poured, and that one thing I remembered was the lone tear that ran down her cheek.

Is that all you want to know?

I did, yes, but we had lost that intimacy we used to have when she would have told me what was happening, and we would have brainstormed solutions. I might be a cabinet maker but I still had a brain, was what I overheard her tell a friend once.

There’s not much to ask, I said.  You’ve been desperately unhappy and haven’t been able to hide it all that well, you have been under a lot of pressure trying to deal with a group of troglodytes, and you’ve been leaning on Bentley’s shoulder instead of mine, and I get it, he’s got more experience in that place,  and the politics that go with it, and is still an ally.

Her immediate superior and instrumental in her getting the position, but unlike some men in his position he had not taken advantage of a situation like some men would.  And even if she had made a move, which I doubted, that was not the sort of woman she was, he would have politely declined.

One of the very few happily married men in that organisation, so I heard.

So, she said, you’re not just a pretty face.

Par for the course for a cabinet maker whose university degree is in psychology.  It doesn’t take rocket science to see what was happening to you.  I just didn’t think it was my place to jump in unless you asked me, and when you didn’t, well, that told me everything I needed to know.

Yes, our relationship had a use by date, and it was in the next few days.

I was thinking, she said, that you might come with me,  you can make cabinets anywhere.

I could, but I think the real problem wasn’t just the job.  It was everything around her and going with her, that would just be a constant reminder of what had been holding her back. I didn’t want that for her and said so.

Then the only question left was, what do we do now?

Go shopping for suitcases.  Bags to pack, and places to go.

Getting on the roller coaster is easy.  On the beginning, it’s a slow easy ride, followed by the slow climb to the top.  It’s much like some relationships, they start out easy, they require a little work to get to the next level, follows by the adrenaline rush when it all comes together.

What most people forget is that what comes down must go back up, and life is pretty much a roller coaster with highs and lows.

Our roller coaster had just come or of the final turn and we were braking so that it stops at the station.

There was no question of going with her to New York.  Yes, I promised I’d come over and visit her, but that was a promise with crossed fingers behind my back.  After a few months in t the new job the last thing shed want was a reminder of what she left behind.  New friends new life.

We packed her bags, three out everything she didn’t want, a free trips to the op shop with stiff she knew others would like to have, and basically, by the time she was ready to go, there was nothing left of her in the apartment, or anywhere.

Her friends would be seeing her off at the airport, and that’s when I told her I was not coming, that moment the taxi arrived to take her away forever.  I remember standing there, watching the taxi go.  It was going to be, and was, as hard as it was to watch the plane leave.

So, there I was, finally staring at the blank sky, around me a dozen other plane spotters, a rather motley crew of plane enthusiasts.

Already that morning there’s been 6 different types of plane depart, and I could hear another winding up its engines for take-off.

People coming, people going.

Maybe I would go to New York in a couple of months, not to see her, but just see what the attraction was.  Or maybe I would drop in, just to see how she was.

As one of my friends told me when I gave him the news, the future is never written in stone, and it’s about time you broadened your horizons.

Perhaps it was.

© Charles Heath 2020-2021

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