flashman181

Wow, been here almost a week and still have $20 left 👏🏻 That should buy a roll of Mentos if I stinge on the tip .

Once again soft lumpy beds, 37 soft pillows and an all in one doona make for a rough nights sleep. Seriously , in cities where they say “Now wear layers Sonny “ you can’t give a sheet at least . It’s either be cold or be warm but don’t you dare be comfortable. So, maybe 4 hrs sleep total . I swallowed a very large pill and put a few items in the laundry bag and hung on door . Also noted my blood type because if you want starch apparently they may need a kidney. FMS

This meant I was raring to go at 6 am and start the Hobblin because Halloween was approaching and had to practice . Or as they call it here, night time😏 Area is not dodgy of course but still some odd bods around and this is where cane comes in handy . Did my research and Cafe Umbria served Cortado and was about a 20 min walk and opened at 630 am. Left at 620 am to be safe and stopped in to a church to pray for good coffee. It worked ! Excellent

Close to the river now and it’s 27 bridges and sun was almost considering getting up so made a beeline for Millenium Park. Along the way again some glorious shots of architecture if I do say so myself

A bit further along and came across some well known landmarks so of course had to stop and shoot eh , not a term to use loosely in Chicago of course.

The sun was peeking through now and it was nice and quiet this early so had the Bean mostly to myself. As suspected the Fall leaves are glorious and it was an amazing time of day. Old Whiskers is knocking out some pretty handy work of late

Two things always approach with trepidation on holidays are hookers …..oops wrong holiday …… first use of washing machines ( not an issue yet !) and first use of public transport. Got my Ventra card and loaded a 3 day pass and all easy peasy. Caught the red line to Chicago stop which is a 3 min walk from Sofitel. Had to stand because many seats were taken up with men sleeping on them , as in laying down, at 8 am in the morning so even the cane didn’t work. Dropped in to Seven Eleven for some supplies and then back to room for breather and planning now I have the train thing down . Having said that plan to walk to Navy Pier later but of course nothing opens here until 11 am . At least now I have some milk and tea bags, time to ring down for an actual kettle and maybe a cup ! Mind you as bad as the ankle is now I know it’s going to be worse when I start again. Have to say hard to see how I will make it to New York but just have to suck it up I guess 😢. Oh, and the laundry gone so hope it was picked up and not just stolen by a passer by my size😏 Actually looking around this last week not sure many of these folk would squeeze into my clothes. 😳

Ok, maybe we try some more strapping this time.

Time to catch a bus which only leaves the horse and carriage in the Transport Trifecta Bingo. Route 66 took me to Navy Pier and not Santa Monica but it was a good trip and not crowded. Would say 30% people here wear masks and 95% of them would be elderly . Today is a simply a glorious day and also good time to get around with weekend coming up and we all know what that means – bloody tourists .

Halloween is starting to kick in around this place. Two faves are Margaritaville and Harry Carey’s Tavern. Had a mango margarita first up but you wouldn’t know it by the colour. I force myself to drink here for CLPs benefit as she is a huge fan. Of Jimmy Buffet, not me .

Then it was a hop, skip and a stumble to Harry’s and once again thought better eat something so had some very tasty sausage ravioli. And a beer just to mix it up a bit

Then back home nice and easy and now comes the tricky part. How to not waste a beautiful afternoon when already done so much and had a few sherberts . Wonder where those horse and carriages are 🤔

Now being an expert on the subway I decided to head north this time and have a gander at Goose Island Brewhouse. Yes folks that is the level of humour here

Not much else up around there of interest so caught the subway back. Will be interesting to see NYC subways because Chicago is where the dregs congregate. No courtesy at all for cane I’ll just leave my bag on the seat next to me or put my feet up. At first stop two seats opened up and about to sit down when middle aged woman standing pointed at me and thought she was offering seat but no she was asking me to move so her 10 yr old daughter could get past and they took both seats . And of course beggars in every carriage . Will try more for buses methinks or just stay closer to home. Speaking of which found Big Shoulders Coffee 200 m from hotel and they serve Cortado. And Breakfast. Winner Winner Chicken Dinner. Which is spooky because it’s true actually. Having spent todays budget on that xtra pack of Juicy Fruit I was left with $7 which bought a take away Chicken Salad from local store . Fuck the tip

Don’t get me wrong it’s been a wonderful time so far with glorious weather but it’s a balancing act having a good time and keeping an eye on the money all the time. And let’s not even think what it is in $AUD 😢. It’s 330 pm and I am in for the day and counting the hours until

Shocking nights sleep with a 3am wake up call in. Not sure I slept at all and was awake certainly before any call. All packed last night so just had to check out and catch a cab to airport. Of course I arrived ridiculously early at 4am for a 630 am flight but wasn’t gambling just because still in Vegas . It was already getting busy and is a cut lunch between terminals. $5 for the valet $10 extra for the cabbie, $5 tip for the desk side bag drop. I tell ya, money is flowing down the drain over here and don’t get me started on the $65 cab fare today. Of course little anal me straight away converts to $AUD and then the real tears start

Anyhoo thought would get something to eat at Ruby’s in Terminal D and the only hot option was a egg/bacon type muffin for $10 so asked for “ the muffin thanks “ . Got some juice as well so suprised when bill was only $9 and thought was on a winner again . Waited and then they bought my muffin out “ you want jelly with that Hon “? Duh , no why would I . Ok so they sold me a fucking toasted muffin and nothing else not even butter . FMS . Not a good start . Plane was chockers as usual and it was a cramped 3.5 hr flight but arrived a few mins early , bag came out quickly as did Taxi. Slow trip in of course but arrived around 130 pm which was a great result . Checked in. “ The mini bars in the room don’t work at present. Would you like a fridge ? Well of course.”Ok we will send one up and it is now sitting in middle of floor ! It’s a pleasant room certainly on the 22 nd floor but not really as luxurious as advertised. It will do of course

Then it was time to get lay of land and also cross off first tradition – a visit to Billy Goat Tavern for a cheezeborger. About a 15 min walk . Headed down just in T Shirt and jeans as had been a busy last hour. Lordy Lordy . Temp said it was 15 but you always have to factor in wind chill. Quickly back up stairs for jumper and still a bit cool . Glad I bought some gloves and beanie in case

Wasn’t quite grabbing me yet and then headed up to Michigan Ave and remembered what I love about Chicago – the buildings. Think Fall will be a good time to visit as well. Walked the Magnificent Mile and can see some Halloween Happenings around

When word spread that Mr Magnificent was actually on the Mile today the Press gathered of course

Time then to head home after a very long day and pick up some supplies . On these jaunts I do drink a lot at different places but rarely do the eating caper justice and pick up a salad or similar and have an early night . Part of the problem, or joy, of solo travelling but really couldn’t be sitting down to fancy meals every day at these prices . Give me drinking anytime . Speaking of which let’s check out the Cheese Eating Surrender Monkey offering at Sofitel – LE Bar. It was damn fine actually and had a very cold Sam Adams. Then I had a beer……

Last and only visit to Chicago was in 2014. There will be some double up of course like with Billy Goat but will do some research tonight but if weather nice tomorrow then likely start at Navy Pier , about a 20 min walk . At this stage weather looks pretty good for the 5 night stay with maybe some rain on Sunday

Before signing off some things that do annoy me about USA Lodgings apart from all the taxes. Again no utensils or plates as such , just a couple of glasses. No microwave, no kettle, no toaster . It’s all designed to gouge the customer . And of course no laundary 😡

Which raises the question , Why would women stay here , let alone how do they fill the day in 🤔

Ouch .

Last full day of being full in a Vegas. Off to Chicago tomorrow at 630 am so means a very early start for this LBD . Some planning then was required as to which drinking establishments deserved the honour of my company .

Starting the day with an Irish Coffee seemed a solid plan and a good start with a 3 pronged attack first up. Ri Ra at Mandelay Bay was a 25 min walk so even though the left knee has gone out in sympathy with right ankle headed off on another glorious day. The coffee was nothing special but no Starbucks either to be sure 😏

Then it was time to check out Allegiant Stadium although pedestrian access was a bit tricky. Needed to cross Frank Sinatra Drive and then Dean Martin drive but both fast moving freeways .Went the long way around over Hacienda Ave and got there eventually . It is a very impressive place for us Raiders fans

The third leg of my cunning plan was another 15 min walk to Hollywood Car museum which liked the look of. Glad made the effort as has pretty much every famous car you could think of. Don’t believe me ?Make yourself a cuppa

I could feel a song coming on George so naturally sat down and entertained the yokels with a bit of “ You Are My Sunshine “

My other bit of clever planning involved using the Monorail as the MGM is the final stop and the Sahara the first stop. Time to Uber to Sahara given we are in the desert after all. Not having to deal with constant pain momentarily freed the brain to hatch a clever plan in the back seat . The Monorail Drinking Game – patent pending . Have a drink at all 6 stops .

The Sahara was surprisingly impressive given its age and there was some great Rat Pack images . The Casbar was also a treat , ah Thank you very much .🕺🏻

To be fair I skipped the next two stops as no bars before arriving at Harrahs. Time for some lunch I guess which I tend to forget when on these drink runs . Walk Ons was a Taste of Louisiana so had some boom boom shrimp which was delicious.

Next stop was Caesars via Flamingo . A bit of a trek but not a bad thing at this stage . It’s a place that looks impressive on the outside but a bit gaudy and pretentious inside. Found a bar but staff rather indifferent

Skipped the Paris stop as was there on Monday and carried on to the MGM . Decided on an Expresso Martini at Mansion Casino as had heard good things . It was fine but like the Irish Coffee it’s all down to individual tastes

On way back to room noticed pool on other side of MGM was open and looked inviting. A sober up wouldn’t hurt at this stage , back for the sluggos . Great way to chill for an hour

A couple of hours back in room to relax before heading out for a last drink. Had an Irish bar lined up for a Guinness tradition but left run a bit late and ended up in beer garden with a plastic cup 😢

My Gambling Experience/Tips in Vegas.( Knowledge Level -1)

So, on way back to rooms finally stopped in casino and put $20 in a slot . A few spins a few bells and cashed out $41. That earns another drink. Went to nearest bar and ordered a Southern Comfort . No one knows AMERICAN Sting here 😏 Every second bar has gambling machines at seat

“ Are you gambling Sir (Poker) “?
No, why
“Well if u r can comp the $15 Sc “
Line em up Chauncey
Put $20 in and played for 10 mins. Cashed out $15

So half an hour of fun and $15 up. Just enough for takeaway Nathan’s Hotdog and Fries. Living the life #highroller

And that’s is from Vegas folks, it’s been a blast

As long as I can wake up at 330 in morning should be on the 630 am flight to Chicago. Weather looks good 7 -15 . Darool Darool

Woke up bright eyed and bushy tailed to another glorious day . Threw open the curtains and suddenly a malaise came over me and my euphoria faded . Didn’t know why but then it dawned on me

Not a lot of time for breakfast so was stuck with Starbucks on site and when I say stuck I mean I stuck the coffee cup in the bin after first sip. The ham and cheese croissant would have to do.

Picked up on time and the old # canemagic worked a treat again as invited to sit up front next to driver in the comfy solo chair

It was easy to spot the trouble makers in the group as they missed the pick up and were connected back to us by another driver. They were never late after that but always last back which of course being morons they thought was funny. 2.5 hr drive out with a mid way comfort stop just after we crossed into Arizona. Looks an exciting place

We stopped at the stopping point which kinda made sense. It was called Eagle Point and where the Skywalk is situated . Ward , my close up driving pal and tour guide , suggested to spend most of our time at second spot Guano Point. Sounded like a bat shit crazy idea to me . I did pay for Skywalk but after hearing about the no phones, special shoes etc caper passed on and after a few snaps went to Skyview restaurant for the excellent included lunch. Then onto Guano and it was indeed stunning

Bought a couple of tacky souvenirs to fill in time because of course I was first back to bus. Then onto Hoover Dam on way back to Vegas. An impressive erection indeed and quite alarming to see the low water levels. The Pat Tillman bridge above is apparently the second tallest bridge in the world. The tallest is made up entirely of thrown away Starbucks coffee cups. Fact

It is surprisingly close to Vegas so dropped off just before 5pm. Asked to be dropped at Bellagio as wanted to see fountains and couldn’t see me coming back at night. Glorious colours once more at that time of day

Picked up a salad for dinner on way home and also some T Shirts for kidlets so have a carefree day tomorrow . As today was alcohol free I suggest that will quickly be remedied tomorrow along with a proper breakfast and begin search for a good coffee. I fear 24 hrs may not be long enough

Maybe some late jet lag but rough nights sleep . Maybe too excited for todays plans 😏 No noise as such from rooms but every door that closes is loud . Slept in longer than wanted to in the end and didn’t get up until almost 730 am so must have got some sleep 😳 . Wanted to get up early to trek down to Welcome to Vegas sign. Determined to walk and deal with pain later. Simply a glorious day with the bluest of blue skies . The walk was supposed to be 45 mins but more like an hour as kept stopping to take more photos .

Eventually made it and was duly greeted by the King. Hey, he doesn’t look great but not bad for someone need dead for 45 years . I made his day anyway

And for that quintessential USA shot , applause now please

Of course starting early means not a lot open including the Pinball Museum sadly. I trekked back slowly and then back onto strip for some shopping . It was a full morning certainly playing geeky tourist but one thing I do know with ankle is once you stop the trouble starts . Avoided alcohol for a change and just headed home for a couple of hours to plan later day activities. Going to head up to Fremont Street and hopefully catch a couple of nearby museums. Tomorrow is full day at Grand Canyon so hope to be home before too late but obviously like to hang around until sun sets at least if I can . Too far to walk so will Uber once more .

Headed off to Mob Museum first . It’s an interesting place certainly but maybe too much detail for this LBD

Luckily there was a bar downstairs . “ I assume you only serve shots ?” . Blank look so had a Rumbo for a change . A change as in $1 left out of a $20 . He may not have been holding a gun but it was certainly a robbery

Then it was time for the 15 min walk to Neon Boneyard and Museum to see if a spare ankle lying around. It’s an impressive place and would really sparkle at night. Much like me

I decided to walk the 25 mins back to Fremont Street Experience but certainly wouldn’t do it at night time. It was a dodgy area . It’s an interesting place certainly and would go off like a frog in a sock at night I imagine. First up decided to try the Slotzilla as had read up on it and looked fun . It was great to be well hung at last

Time for a drink then and found a perfect bar adjacent and had a couple of beers as needed to sit and relax a bit and wait for the sun to go down

As expected FSE went off at 6 pm. The Killers were on Vista Vision and it was a visual and audio delight . Some amusing folk around too of course

It was a stunning day all round in Vegas with simply glorious weather . I achieved a lot which is good as Wednesday will need to be a quiet day as am really paying for all the walking today . Here is one I prepared earlier

Tomorrow is full day tour to Grand Canyon via Hoover Dam. Should be great with much less walking and no expensive Ubers 😏

Good room at Courtyard LAX noise wise on 4 th floor on side away from airport . Only issue was a loud AC you could not turn off . Was always going to be an odd nights sleep but got some at least . Decided to skip the limited options for breakfast at hotel and head straight out to airport at 8 am even if 4 hrs until flight . Glad I did but first let’s check the account . Bloody USA 😏

DESCRIPTION CHARGES CREDITS

Room Charge 218.00

Room Tax 30.52

Convention and Tourism Tax 4.36

Calif/Local Tourism Fee 0.44

La Hotel Ordinance Fee 10.72

La Ordinance Occ Tax 1.50

La Ordinance Trsm Tax 1.50

American Express 0.21

Total 265.75

Beautiful morning , typical LA this time of year

One thing you have to remember is the tipping and make sure you have plenty of 5s . Not the usual ripping but things like the shuttle bus driver, the bag check guy at airport etc . The shuttle was a nightmare . 5 min trip could 20 mins but couldn’t walk the few klms with this ankle . You know the one fixed by that $ 5000 surgery 5 months ago .

It was checkers and kept stopping to pick up more passengers ! Checked in online with AA last night so just needed to drop off bag. Used the curb side guy – another tip – but worth it . I am a Silver FF and QC member with Qantas and really think it is worth for some OS benefits if nothing else. All tickets are marked “priority “ and you do skip some lanes trust me. And of course entry to the superb Admirals Flagship lounge at LAX – simply one of the best . It’s 8 am and the place is full of champers and red wine. None of that “ not before midday nonsense “ . My chef – let’s call him Frank – made me a simply wonderful fresh Quesadilla which left me just to get the Piper Heidsieck Brut Champagne eh. Here is one Frank prepared earlier

Flight to Vegas seems to be on time at this stage leaving just after midday for the short flight . Now just have to work out that morning coffee

As always AA overbook and try to offload passengers at boarding with offers of $350 travel credit for a $150 flight 🤔 Then they ask for passengers to check in their carry on if in last 2 groups as plane is full . Meanwhile the first seven groups walk on with massive and multiple carry on bags 🤦🏻‍♂️ I boarded ok once I got past the fans

Anyway a quick flight and then had to walk a mile to our baggage claim. It was Vegas so there were slot machines in airport

Then I shit you not there were about 200 people waiting for taxis . It was an efficient process though and on way in 15-20 mins. Checked in fine and got Tower 3 which is quite maybe but further from strip. It was 37 th floor but not strip view

First job then was an AT&T Sim and saw closest was 35 min walk so Ubered. All sorted but by now money was leaking quick eg the Sim is $65 . Total is $80 Sir. Why ? $ 15 to activate Sim. Tell me Sweetheart do many people buy a Sim and not activate it 🤷🏻‍♂️ So, team vote was walk back but via Strip just to add another 30 mins . Lovely time of day

By now I needed a beer and closest was a Pizza place

Rinsed the tonsils and of course as soon as hobbled another 5 mins found the perfect spot so stopped again. We will always have Paris

Dusk was approaching so couldn’t resist some more photos just in case .

Just in case you ask ? The ankle is fucked. Really pissed off with this almost 6 months post surgery and worse than before 😡 Anyway made the long way back to Tower through MGM casino and seriously took 15 mins to get through so stopped for a bite . Strombolis are my new fave

Back up in room and time for some research for a full on tourist day tomorrow . There could be more photos . Meanwhile

You know, the day when you arrive before you leave but haven’t slept for 36 hrs. 🤔 All on track at present but won’t relax until sitting in my seat and buckled in on QF 93 tonight in Melbourne and we are heading down the runway. Leaving late at night of course does not help with the extent of the “no sleep” period

As luck, or clever planning, would have it have been in Brisvegas a few days early to catch up with family and so have missed the current weather Armageddon in Maryhole and hopefully have left Brisvegas before it arrives here later today. May be some damage in the floodwaters especially as could be the submerged Maryhole Dome lurking under the surface 😏

Caught up with Mum at Twilight home with bro in tow . I am the handsome one on the right . She is still doing ok although did have another fall last night. Always a concern

Today we had a lovely brunch prepared by CLP at Windsor before we headed to airport. As always when you leave a little early everything moves smoothly and sitting in lounge with 2.5 hrs to spare😏 Luckily it wasn’t crowded apart from one other oddly handsome fellow . The people you meet eh

JL finally heading home to Melbourne and totally fortuitous on same flight. With weather around was offered an earlier flight but only in economy and have been assured by experts that planes fly in heavy rain just not storms 🤞 Of course if flight from Brisbane significantly delayed then the troubles begin .

It wasn’t. Great flight down in Business. Only 12 seats right . The hot meal looked great . Last served and only left with “ cold alternative “ as in an alternative to actual food 😏 4 kgs of beetroot , 3 small Bocconcini and a shit load of chick peas. Horrid. Washed down with wine, rum, wine. To be fair Hostie had to eat it too .Bid farewell to JL ( who both got the hot meal !) and was hard to walk away with Lorraine crying like that . I promised her we would see them in another 8 months and that seemed to calm her down .

Arrived early . Easy transit to International and quick security check. To date plate and screws remain undetectable . I may have to remove them just for a final check. So, sitting in Business Lounge at Melboring and it is pretty ordinary at 8 pm. Food so so and no service but plenty of alcohol to hook into.

Two other comments . The wi fi on board was excellent and very useful . The Air Tags work a treat. Here is one I just prepared

QF 93 left on time with a smooth boarding process. When the clown in front of me changed into his own Qantas PJs on the tarmac I knew two things – he was a tool and a seat recline was in my immediate future

The PE on Dreamliner is a perfectly acceptable “better than cattle class” alternative. Leg room is not great but all other aspects are great. Not a fan of 10 pm long haul flights . You have a heavy dinner at midnight and then 10 hrs later breakfast and then an hour later you walk off the plane at 6pm , 4 hrs before ya left. It does your head in I tell ya. Mind you the lamb shank meal was probably the best airline meal ever had and I’ve flown Jetstar 🕺🏻

Arrived 5 mins early and it was a good time to descend at least

LA customs was busy of course. Here is a tip younguns , carry a walking cane. A nice man directed me to the “Diplomats and Special Assistance “ lane and through in 15 mins . The hobble to the airport shuttle pick up was long and stood around for 20mins until it arrived and then of course last dropped off at Courtyard Marriott . Looks a nice room and did a quick mini unpack and then ducked down for that first beer on foreign soil and paced myself with a Bud Light. I’m a stayed not a sprinter

Officially Shaggus O Murphy now so time for bed before heading out to airport around 9 am tomorrow for midday flight to Vegas

Ankle …… 4/10 . It’s very bad but suspect could get a lot worse so didn’t want to shoot my load early

Again…

Just hope we have a better landing than Sully. Come to think of it , just hope we take off on Saturday, the rest will work itself out

So, while it is definitely still a Crapshoot my fondness for alliteration was unsated so came up with a new title which also reflects the major concern leading into vaycay – the ankle is crap. It is well over 5 months now and really no sign of improvement let alone reduction in pain and swelling. A major disappointment to be sure. Has been a busy couple of weeks with lots of driving and mowing on course which doesnt help so hoping just walking and drinking doesnt cause as much after effects or else will have to cut out the walking. Plan usually involves a lot of walking up and down streets and stopping in at bars of quirk.

Its a 4 city extravaganza with some old faves – Las Vegas, Chicago, Philadelphia and NYC. It was a credit for a weeks stay in NYC back in Feb 2020 that started this plan taking shape. Normally would not go back to NYC again so soon but cant afford to throw $2000 away with the current AUD exchange rate! Of course same stay , although fully paid for previously , will now cost an extra $900 USD anyway 😦

Las Vegas is the newbie of course and while never considered myself a Vegas guy it is worth seeing once and a great starting point for Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam tour. The excitement levels for this trip are way down and a lot due to post surgery issues and a general lack of confidence all will go smoothly flight wise. 7 flights in total – 3 Qantass and 4 AA. First up on Saturday is fly to Melbourne to catch a Dreamliner to LAX. 4 internal AA flights all in basic economy and longest flight being 5 hrs. Then plan to fly home in style was sunk by Qantass with the first flight cancellation some months ago and now straight from LAX to Brisvegas but in Economy 😦 Upgrade requests are in of course but highly unlikely to be successful with flights being generally chockas at present. Why send an A380 with 10 % spare seats when you can oversell a 787 and save on fuel……

Normally would have several things booked already but a combo of low interest levels and even lower $AUD value only trip booked is a day tour to GC and Hoover Dam. Reality is my financial position , pre Thursday Powerball, is not as flash these days so one has to a bit more careful dolling it out. Am sure once hit the ground in LAX the energy will pick up assuming I didnt break the ankle stepping off the plane

The other treat of course, and this is no trick, is that will be in USA for Halloween for first time ever so can see Yanks being morons up close and personal. Not a holiday I pay much attention to at all but should be good to see the decorations etc and will be in Chicago for that day. Can only hope Halloween Ends for me better than the franchise. What a load of crap that was

Also a different time of year. Devoted fans would know I love the snowy times of February usually in USA so will be interesting to be there in Fall where temperatures will still be pleasant but no snow . By the time I fly out of NYC mid November it could be quite brisk. Am sure it will be a great holiday and remind me why I love to travel but just not feeling it at present. Will head to Brisveags a few days early to see Mum and also hopefully catch up with brother and sister as he has just returned from an overseas cruise

What is always a delight of course is catching up with part of the six pack , this time in Toowoomba for Old Farts day. The kids are all musically talented and it was agreat set up this year at TACAPS to wander the grounds and come across a performance. Alos briefly saw Ryan who is just the sweetest young boy you could ask for

Will sign off now and start the checking and packing . When next we hear from our hero he should be sitting in the LAX hotel waiting to catch first flight to Vegas on Sunday remembering of course we arrive before we leave on Saturday:) And have to factor in daylight saving for Melboring too!

As October rolls around there is only one constant in life at present and that is inaccurate weather forecasts. Oh, and pain. Lets review

Booked over 6 months ago , a loose term these days, to fly out to USA in 3 weeks for first OS travel in a couple of years. Normally bed flute pointing northwards and pants around the ankles right ? Its kinda appropriate that first stop , hopefully, is Vegas because at present the holiday …..wait for it….is all a crapshoot.

First up the ankle at 4 months post surgery is no better than 4 months pre surgery. Cant walk 10 m without pain even with my “Jimmy” Shoes and wrapping/compression bandages. Jimmy shoes u ask ? If u r not a Seinfeld fan why are you reading this…..but ok

One thing surgeon told me – apart from fact I would be doing cartwheels at 12 weeks – was to get some “rocker sole” shoes to wear after moonboot phase to assist with a normal gait. Last normal gait I had was in ’79 but ok. Well , taking almost $300 out of my wallet in right back pocket may have helped a bit with balance but any other benefits largely escape me at present

The main issue apart from pain is swelling so hence the compression bandages. Luckily no 13 hr flights coming up soon…… Of course, compression bandages do have to come off. Lets see how well they worked yesterday. Yep, a crapshoot

Its fair to say that my usual “let the city flow over you approach” by walking everywhere in USA as planned when first lined up for surgery 4 months ago will be back to hobble for 10 , whine and moan for 10, rest for 5, rinse, repeat. Luckily the sidewalks of NYC are never crowded. Even with these limitations imposed late in the 3rd quarter on yours truly would not be enough to counter my usual excuberant and effervescent approach to life in general. Now, lets factor in Qantas

Lordy Lordy what a crapshoot. My one mistake may have been to join the “Qantas Comments and Gripes” section on Facebook. Fair to say the gripes are winning in a landslide. The horror stories you read are hard to believe at times and lets face it the covid/flu season/excuse is mostly over here in Australia. Now we are back to the general incompetence of many decisions Joyce and Co have made in recent years impacting. Flights cancelled regularly , baggage missing, seats changed. Of course when the Syd-LAX flight is cancelled for example the flow on effect is a day later the LAX-SYD will be cancelled as no plane over there now ! Latest example yesterday… A couple in their 70s were actually seated with belt on in Business Class when notified by staff they would have to shift to economy so that some extra flight crew in their 30s could have their BC seats! A lot is removal of A 380s from flights as happened with me a month ago. Paid top price for Premium Economy over and back and because only A 330 – with no PE- used for Bri-LAX I had to fly via Melbourne first up to catch an A 380/Dreamliner. Or so you would think. Nah, they cancelled my return flight on Nov 14th and dumped me onto …..wait for it….. the A 330 to Brisbane. “But Sir, you are in the same seat number – 35 B” Yeah but this one is in fucking economy you moron. Its a different model aircraft! So basically for next 3 weeks instead of getting excited and planning daily adventures you wake up and quickly check emails to see if any from Qantas 😦 Of course we know only too well always the chance of the dreaded 2 am message on day of flight despite any possible comfort you may be feeling by then ! It seems that Qantas have zero care factor now and rely on fact that ” all airlines are struggling” and because of that many people will accept what they are told, me included, simply to get OS. Its really that first major flight out of Australia that is critical. After that, you can deal with most things because you are actually “on holidays”. “Most things” include 4 internal AA flights 😦 Will I actually get to the USA in 3 weeks? Who knows, afterall its ALL A CRAPSHOOT

Luckily others things have happened recently

CLP had a birthday late last month and we spent a lovely weekend together at Flashman Inc., Sunshine Coast. Some of us even got in the water . The Ponderosa is certainly looking a treat.

Always on the lookout for a new dining experience and have to say may have lucked out with Orleans at Maroochydore . Doesnt look much from outside but great ambience indoors and a superb 4 course tasting menu to follow. French and Cajun influence. With matching wines natch. Good serving pour size too just quietly

This last week some of the Toowoomba Tribe visited when Tony and the 3 kidlets came out for the day and night. We did go to golf but of course I didnt play. I did take one shot though and maybe this “lock the back foot and just swing arms” may work out moving forward. Of course now I need to remember to add about two clubs to compensate for lost distance. You cant lose natural talent eh….

It was a quiet Thursday afternoon at the GC under cloudy skies so basically perfect to take our time and enjoy mother nature. Kids get pleasure out of simple things like just driving the golf carts , raking bunkers and laughing at Grandad.

After a few hours on GC and the sun shining through lets head upstairs to bar for a beer as its nice and quiet. Walked past the young lass in Pro Shop as we all headed upstairs. Remember I had bandages on and a walking cane. Not a peep. It was a Ghost Town upstairs with no one behind bar or even in office. Eventually Tony walked back down stairs and asked young lass. “No, the bar is closed ” It was 3 pm. Hey, you don’t have any cheese by any chance eh Ms Wensleydale? Fuck me Slowly, what a joke. Had a lovely dinner with the new go to fail safe “air fryer roast chicken” . Threw a couple of beds together and it was actually a coolish night but then these kids are Toowoomba Tough. They then headed off next morning for a lovely catch up at the beach on the glorious day with the Beachmere Boys.

Not a lot of planning to do then except maybe a slight detour to Mt Rushmore to see the latest addition of Rod Stewart carved in the mountain

So, when next we hear from our hero he should be stateside . Or in the fetal position, Time will tell. After all,…..trumpets please…….ITS ALL A CRAPSHOOT

Oh, and in case you missed it the Queen is dead.

Ah no actually because after 12 weeks I still have to wrap the ankle to walk anywhere! Lets start with the good news because it wont take long. The 12 week X Rays are done and dusted and would seem to indicate all is where it should be and no rust detected. Here are two I prepared earlier

Now lets retrace our steps and move onto the reality of living with a fused ankle after a “successful” operation. Back home now by myself for majority of August . It was time to move onto next phase of recovery and get back into the Maryhole way of life. Of course I expected by 12 weeks to be running like a deer through the forest , not that I ever could mind you. Instead

I prefer to act as if it is a choice rather than a guaranteed certainty. First up then I needed some supplies to last through end of winter or at least next 3 days.

Its fair to say the Breville Barista Coffee machine experiment has not been a raging success but it would have to do for now as an hour is long enough to spend on adjusting grind . Hey maybe I should get Dr Bali up ? Nah, lets just open up the Honey, A instead. Speaking of Dr B he suggested I would be driving at 6 weeks – yeah right. After some crap coffee for a few days and approaching Week 11 thought it was time to venture further afield with moonboot at the ready. Ok, its a slow process taking on and off so celebrated feat of first drive to Coffee place with a muffin as well just to ensure I didnt fade away with the anxiety

This was never going to cut mustard for too long so time to try a few variations. I never did get the “rocker sole” shoes advised as they appear to be a US invention and no one here sells them in Aussie land. The Skechers with arch fit certainly seemed an acceptable solution at least comfort wise. A quick call to Doc B between weeks 11 and 12 seemed to suggest all was on track and recovery is variable from patient to patient but it was time to wean off the moonboot. Did as told of course and ventured out for a couple of chores with just a wrap on and the shoes. The main problem continuing onwards , apart from some pain, is the swelling after even a short period on feet and upright. Exhibit A from 2 days ago

< not good

Apart from continued swelling the foot still becomes dark pink/red after being upright as well maybe simply due to increased blood flow. There is increased tightness around achilles region as well which is new now. Of course all this may simply reflect normal life after a fused ankle as fusion is complete and less movement available. For first two months ankle always seemed more flexible that expected. As always there is good stiff and bad stiff…… Plans to be taking it easy and watching some fave movies to reflect the mood have been replaced by a more reflective choice

Of course life doesnt just revolve around my ankle. Also had an infected sebacious cyst on neck that had to be excised and then dressed every 2 days at Doctor for a week . They stick a wick in it to keep it partially open and let me tell you that hurts when then pull it out.

Lets spend some time then planning the USA trip coming up to bring some cheer into one’s life. Say, is that an email from Qantas, how spooky. “Hey sucker we cancelled your PE flight on the A 380 from LAX coming home to an A 330. Yeah they dont do PE so you will be in economy for 14 hrs but you are in the same seat ” What? The same seat number is not the same fucking seat you morons! Talking to Qantas is pointless of course. Every day now you wake up (hopefully) and check emails and pray there isnt another one from Qantas! Until yesterday morning of course when turned on laptop to be greeted by BSOD! Tried all the usual tricks but the more you tried the worse it got until it just died completely, likely a failed HDD would suggest. The one email did see on iPad was from Centrelink saying your medical leave is over and time to come see us . What a joyous way to spend Friday morning – look for a laptop for $1000 and then mingle with GU at Centrelink for 30 mins.

Obviously laptop is bought and being used . Windows 11, ugh. Anyhoo , time is flying by quickly and so USA trip is down to just over 6 weeks away but still cant get too enthused as too much can still go wrong for this LBD especially with 4 internal AA flights as well. The working title of “What Happens in Vegas” has been upgraded as really only 4 days in LV even thought it is the only city that is “new” for me on the itinerary. The current working title is “Slots, Slices and Sly” to cover Vegas gambling, two different pizza types in Chicago and NYC, and of course Philly’s favourite son. It may well change again. I shan’t lay awake at night thinking about it, too much else on my mind

Its not all doom and gloom of course

GO BRONCOS

Ah crap.