Such a long time since I posted anything on here. No excuse, except that I’ve been completing an MA in Creative Writing at Exeter University. I have neglected my little story pods blog, no recordings for well over a year. Disgraceful.

I wrote this when The Man was away for a week a while ago. He went to visit family as soon as lockdown was lifted. I began to think about what I missed when he was away and also the things I could do without him at home. If you live with someone, do you find there are some things you are suddenly free to do that you would normally not think about, because it might upset your partner? The Man and I get on really well, never a cross word — honestly — but even so there are a few things in which I can, and do indulge, when I get the opportunity. That sounds more exciting than it is!

No musical intro this time…just my melodious voice…. Click on the link, listen to me read…While You are Away

The Man Does Not Like Coleslaw — But I love It! 

While You Are Away

I eat coleslaw

rise early

      make               a cup of tea

go back to bed

read the news        do my words

get up

take the      dog      out

whatever    the weather

and  do       household jobs

I colonise your side

                              of the kitchen table

      with my clutter

books         computer         pens

      and      pencils

I can choose what I want

to watch                 Netflix             BBC

but no fun             no conversation

      early to bed                  read a bit

stroke                     the empty side

count         how                 many              sleeps

until           I          must

      finish

the coleslaw

Ninette Hartley © September 2020