Editor’s Diary: A Week Of Fixing Things


Shutterstock / Opat Suvi © Woman's hands working at a laptop, next to her phone, calculator and small plant

There seems to be a theme to this week’s Editor’s Diary – taking care of things that need to be fixed!

It started with my Highland pony Texa. She was due her annual visit from the vet for her vaccination booster and dental check.

Incidentally, that means my horse has managed to see a dentist before me! (But that’s another story.)

The appointment was made for the Wednesday morning. The vaccination was given and the teeth were pronounced to be in good condition. Phew!

In case you’re wondering, dental treatment for a horse involves large doses of sedative, a giant metal rasp and a contraption that keeps the mouth open while the vet reaches inside. It’s always a relief when that’s not needed!

Then, the following morning, the farrier visited to trim Texa’s hooves into shape.

With teeth, toes and immune system in tip-top condition, she was ready for anything!

Which was more than could be said for me. A niggling sore knee saw me heading for a physiotherapy appointment later that day.

After being prodded, pummelled and put through my paces, I was relieved to be told there was nothing seriously wrong. Though a series of exercises was prescribed – and ice packs when required. No quick fix for me!

There just seem to be spells when lots of things need attention all at once. So I shouldn’t have been surprised when my car started playing up on Sunday.

It progressed very quickly from a stutter to an angry orange light flashing insistently on the dashboard. Not good.

Luckily, we have a very reliable garage close to home. Two days, several parts and a large bill later, I was back on the road.

And so far, thank goodness, nothing else has required attention. I’m touching wood just in case . . .


Read Angela’s previous Editor’s Diary entries

Angela Gilchrist

Angela is Former Editor-in-Chief of “The People’s Friend” magazine. Her passions include cats, Highland ponies, good books, vegetarian food and long walks in the Scottish countryside. Her favourite place to get away from it all is the magical Isle of Skye.