After two practices with the other clarinet pupils I went to play at the Christmas 'concert' last night.

The Bear reluctantly agreed to be chauffeur but complained that it was the last thing he felt like doing. He assured me that he knew where the 'gymnase' in Renwez was and so we only allowed 10 minutes to get there. Once in the small town he appeared hesitant and I guessed he did NOT know where to go. Eventually he parked by an open doorway and, fortunately, we saw one of the committee members of the music school. He greeted us with a puzzled frown and said 'Have you come for the concert? It's at the 'gymnase' - up the road towards Harcy and turn right.'

So we got there a few minutes after 6.15 but, not to worry, no-one is ever on time for these affairs. The teacher and other two players hadn't arrived and so we found seats near the exit and Bear started to moan about the lack of punctuality, programmes, organisation etc. etc.

The concert was due to start at 6.30 - according to the posters - but the other members of the group ambled in at 6.35 and we went into a changing room to tune up. Programmes were handed round and we discovered that we were on first! That pleased the Bear. For the first time in a week a grin appeared on his face and he gleefully announced that we would go as soon as the quartet was over.

I said I'd like to stay to hear Helene and Sophie, two flute students I'd got to know last year, but Bear's expression informed me that I'd have to walk home if I did so that was that. A quick rendering of Away in a Manger and Ding Dong Morily (according to the programme) on High; clarinet taken apart and stuffed in its case without drying and we were off, with embarrassed apologies to the same committee member, who had given us directions,  who was at the door as we went out.

On the way back Bear announced that he wanted to stop for a take away pizza before going home. Only a few days before, when I'd asked him if we could get some to save me cooking (as Jay and I had done a marathon shop at the supermarket) he had claimed that he didn't like pizza!!!!

P.S. I am without broadband until 22nd December so won't post again till then.