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Thursday 15 January 2015

cuttings & clippings

We had to disconnect all technology for some time because of bad storms. Today having had to catch up on things left undone I've just a few clippings and a memory to share with you.

A father's name is most important in Crete. It has to appear on every official document and on most non official ones too. On my first visit to the Health Clinic I was suffering from an ear infection. The doctor began questioning me.
'And what is your father's name?' he asked.
'Oh no, I said, 'it's my ear.'
The doctor smiled. I need to know your father's name,' he said,' before I can treat you.'
I wonder how many father's, some deceased, and from other countries, ever expected their name to be of such importance in Greece?

When I attended the eye doctor he said me during a particular part of the exam 'look at my ear.' I thought he said 'look at my hair.' Since he was follicle challenged to quite a degree this was embarrassing.
'Where exactly would you like me to look?' I enquired.
Tweaking his right ear he said, 'here, it's usually attached to the side of my head.'
'Of course,' I stuttered. 'I'll be going to the hearing specialist tomorrow.
'Why not,' he smiled.

A family friend celebrated her one hundred and fourth birthday recently.
'How, I asked her have you managed to live so long?'
'I took a deep breath at one time,' she smiled 'and I have kept doing that.'

On New Year's Eve, not too long after our arrival in Crete, there was a party in a nearby taverna. The patrons were mostly local people who were determined to enjoy the festivities. When the dancing began there were stunning performances. Young men in white boots danced in line until unexpectedly one jumped into the air and tipped his heels together. Everyone cheered which encouraged him to new heights. The young women in national costume were composed and danced impeccably afterwards. When it was time for men of all ages to take the floor for a special dance my husband joined them. I watched him doing the steps almost as well as any Greek.
'What if he tries that jump?' I asked my friend.
'Don't be daft, he won't.' she answered.
He did.
He rose into the air, flipped over, and miraculously landed on his feet. He received a rousing cheer and was presented with a cigar for his efforts.
'How did you do that?' I asked.
'With more than a little help from my friends.' he laughed

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