My birthday

Funny day. Vannessa gave me a card and a key ring torch and my usual walk to school. Getting quicker – less than half an hour.

Kids were generally well behaved and not a bad day. I have taken some photos of the outside of the school. Inside is much like anywhere else, though it does have a look and feel of its own. It’s not English. It is set in beautiful grounds with trees all around. The park is nearby. Some of the children have been decorating the fence with leaves. It does look pretty. Thinking about what I wrote last weekend, it came to me that Moscow reminds me of Paris with the wide boulevards. My flat will be on a boulevard – I have yet to learn the address, but I did notice that part.

I had arranged to meet the usual crowd from schools 1 and 2 to share a meal at our local pizza place only to be told I had to go to school 7 to sign the agreement for my flat. It took over an hour, but the landlady and her daughter both speak good English and were really helpful. When I explained about meeting everyone they ran me to the place as it was on their way home. I move in a week – when the 3 fish tanks and terrapin tank have been moved out, with all the other crap. I think it will be ok. It’s a bit nearer to school and quieter.

Peter and Jonathan rang, and they even got Philippa on the speaker phone for a brief message. It was lovely talking to them all. It’s strange thinking of them managing without me. Still it will do them good (I think). Unless a disaster happens, I shall stay the year. After that I shall have to see.

The weather has turned cold and rather wet. I am already wearing my winter coat with fleece – it is between 7˚ and 10˚. We had one days heavy rain and another is forecast for tomorrow. It may be ok. I have found my gloves and scarf and want to buy a hat at the weekend.

Joan, Cathy and Vannessa want to introduce Tracey and I to Ismylovitch ( I must get the guide book out for spelling) market. It’s the old gipsy market and a haunt for tourists. Some bargains to be had if you hunt and the place to go nearer Christmas.

Better upload the photos and get to bed. Tomorrow is another day.