Oh by the way, have you met my friend Slim Jim?

A friend offered to take us to a discount retailer yesterday but after shedding six months of hair growth at the local chop shop, we both decided to call it an afternoon. I, who hate shopping, was looking for a toaster that might last the length of its minimal warranty. The last two have broken within three months and since toast is not a huge part of my breakfast experience, I've put off the task of finding another.

However, there were days when I was ill that a piece of toast would have fit the bill perfectly. Thus, after treating this friend to brunch at a small place in my neighborhood, we were mid-isle at the store when my friend, a note of panic in her voice, asked, "Have you seen my keys?"

Empty pockets, an emptied handbag and a scan of the ground around her vehicle yielded nothing. The keys, as it turned out had fallen behind the console between the two front seats. 

A locksmith was called and misunderstanding my friend's directions, went to the other side of town after coming from an adjacent county. Waiting involved a lot of my friend fretting and me gently reminding her that it was nice out, despite the clouds, and all was not lost, We ended up at the store entrance near public bathrooms and a mini-cafe. When he finally arrived, the young locksmith was friendly and gave my friend a discount after helping me into the car. 

It was a quarter to six when I unlocked the front door. I am grateful for the quiet although I miss Lukas and his lovely trills of greeting. I am exhausted and peopled out. 

Wishing everyone a good week.