Ramble
It seems to me, the busiest places on Symi right now are the post office and delivery stations for couriers. Hardly surprising as much is being ordered online, especially in the run-up to Christmas. As well as singing carols this year, we should be singing the praises of the post office and courier workers who keep our post flowing. It’s not uncommon to be walking somewhere, or (when you could) having lunch at a taverna, and someone comes past, stops their motorbike and says, ‘You have a delivery.’ Often, a few minutes later, they return with that delivery and drop it off at your table. I’ve had text messages, phone calls and messenger messages from the staff at the post office, bookshop, ACS and newsagent informing me that something has arrived, and it’s that kind of personal touch that brings a smile and helps make this place what it is.
That was just my first thought as I sat down to post some pictures I took on Tuesday when wandering up the hill on a cold, but at least, non-raining morning. I must have been on the path before feeding time as the goats and sheep were gathering, bleating and baaring at me as if I was a delivery person come with a bucket of feed. On the way back, I passed Arabi the goatherd dog and his team, and sad to see, noticed he was walking on three legs and hanging one of his back legs and not using it. He was in the company of a pup, so I assume Arabi is nearing retirement age and passing on his knowledge to a younger generation, as is the way of the shepherding world.
I also saw a fair few Lefterises gathering by the bus stop at dawn, and a couple passed me on the way up the mountain on their bikes. It was Lefteris’ name day, and I assume they were heading to a country chapel. The parish church, by Zoi’s Taverna was festooned with flags and lights, and the bells had been ringing there the previous evening. So, some things continue as usual, or as best they can under current restrictions. That’s also what I am doing, with my daily typing session in the mornings, though the afternoon sessions have fallen by the wayside a little in favour of a warm sitting room and the ease of television. I’ll get back to a full writing schedule after Christmas.
For now, I’m happy to take things easy and wait for inspiration to strike. It happens even when I sit down to write… something, not knowing exactly what, and pump out a few thousand words. It may be rubbish, but it’s still training if nothing else. I feel a little as though, after completing ‘Banyak & Fecks‘, I’ve rather drained myself as if I’m not currently sure if I can write anything as good for a while. I’m sure I can, but maybe not until I’ve had a break.
Anyway, that was another stream of semi-consciousness thought as I can’t think of anything else to say right now. I have a mug of decaf to warm my fingers, and an idea for something to write, so I’ll turn my attention to that as soon as I’ve posted this ready to go in the morning.
