Jimmy Carter died today, aged 100. The World Service was full of his life, praising him for the great things he did. There were a few surprises. For instance, I had no idea he was so concerned with environmental issues, civil rights and feminism. It seems he was universally loved by everyone. Even Trump praised him this morning. That feels a bit topsy-turvy.
Carter was also that rare thing, an American Christian that was actually Christian. While I am most definitely a hardened atheist, I can appreciate someone who practices what he preaches rather than one that’s forced to sell gold-plated bibles to the gullible to win votes.
Here, in Trosa, the world was looking a lot brighter. On a purely personal level, I mean. My mental state has gradually improved over the last few days to the point where I feel ready to face the world again.
I think it was all just too much, so a withdrawal into the arms of a dark, welcoming corner felt like my only option. I don’t mind admitting that the last little while has taken its toll on me, both physically and mentally. And that has caused me to want to run away. Fortunately, I have nowhere to run to, so I’ve just stayed and sulked. And, of course, I could never run away from Mirinda. Or these two:

While it’s probably not recommended, I have found my mental isolation has helped. Staying locked away has also helped me physically as my knee has slowly improved and my extra toe has calmed down. Actually I think the extra toe thing has been a big factor in my woes.
Over a year ago, I stupidly wore a pair of new shoes all day while enjoying Stockholm with Lauren. The right shoe ripped the top off the bunion on my right foot and I suffered for ages because of it. I have, only recently, been able to wear proper shoes again, and felt confident that moving forward could be relatively pain free.
Then, last week, I reopened the old wound while exercising. This made me feel like I’d gone backwards a year, forcing me to once more adopt the Sneaky Steve, modified shoe for my right foot. Of course, it was my own stupidity. Sometimes, my own stupidity astounds me.
Anyway, things are improving and I can almost walk properly…well, as properly as I can. Let’s hope that things continue to improve into the new year.
I’m sorry if I worried anyone with my last post. It was never my intention to do so.
Hi Gary
Glad to read that you are feeling somewhat better and that, as your wife predicted, a few days rest from the blog did the job. I too would have missed reading about your various excursions – not to mention the recipe tips 🙂
Best wishes to you and the family for 2025
Neil
Hi Neil
Thank you so much for your comment. It made my heart feel even lighter.
Best wishes to you and yours from me and mine as well.
Gary