Dashed Chilly out -

So the snows have come at long last - just too much to expect us to get through another year with a mild winter, however, so far, touch wood, Penicuik has not been as bad as many other parts of the UK. Bigger problem is the cold with the mercury dropping so the old hot water bottle rather than a hot toddy might be a sensible option.
Mercat Grill, Whitecraig continues to evolve and our customers are intrigued with the changes, and are returning to monitor the work with interest. Word of the changes seems to be spreading - hopefully good news rather than gossip, although there are some odd stories circulating probably by former clients who are afraid to own up as to the real reasons why they are no longer welcome.

Have been keeping a low profile these past few days, "chilling out" as sparky would say, even had an afternoon of watching comedy films on the TV whilst Mrs. B. was away with her friend - as they old saying goes,  "when the cat's away the mouse will play" -  and as a sideline,  our resident mouse has not even been out for it's chocolate treat.
Might be keeping up my strength, saving myself, for the next wine tasting at the Mercat Bar, West Maitland Street, on Saturday - early start at 2.30 p.m.,  but it should be good -   that is provided Sparky and I have survived a mornings work without flooding the "Grill".

Quite disappointed with the closure of Jessops, the photographic chain, especially after Jacobs which was next door in the West End, closed before Xmas.    I was fortunate enough to get in and use my gift vouchers in time,   unlike those who have lost out due to the demise of HMV yesterday. 

Making use of NHS these past few days, first visits since last July, so between blood tests, an ECG, and  new medications I seem to be getting VFM,  now need to see what the outcome is this time around.

Had a really brutal session on the phone with a sales person from one of the Companies marketing for British Gas on Monday night - certainly an experience I do not wish to repeat - it was a prime example of high pressure selling, puts me off talking to apparently pleasant young ladies on the phone again.  So if I have a heart attack I know who to blame !!!No point in talking to OFCOM which is a toothless organisation.