It is at times like this that I wished that I was much more practical. Currently I wish that I had some mechanical knowledge. I wish that I knew more than just the rudiments of engines. The Lawrence Mobile won't start. That level of diagnosis was fairly straightforward. I put the key in, turned it and the engine started to turn over. All was well. The only problem was that the engine would not fire. That is where my ability at diagnosis ends. It is not the battery and it is not a flat tyre. I can spot those and solve them both. But anything more hi-tech is beyond my abilities.
If it is any help I can spot, immediately, where a GCSE Drama or A Level play isn't working and cure it. I can come to the aid of a monologue performer whose characterisation is misfiring and I can provide spark to the devised play. But, currently, I can not start my car.
Thankfully we have a telephone mechanical assistance thing as part of our insurance policy that I am hoping will come to my help but these things always happen at the most inconvenient of times. Edwin is currently socialising with a friend and has a dance lesson shortly while Lexi, Rupert, Trixie and I are 10km from home. Lexi and kids have therefore departed in a taxi while I wait.
Which leaves me to ponder gaps in my education and knowledge. Should I have done a "How Get A Petrol Engine Going" course at school instead of learning all about corrie lakes and Chrystaller's Theory? Should "Trouble Shooting For Beginners" have been the thing for all first years rather than learning how to draw perfect rectangles and matchboxes with Mr Moore? And would it have been better if I had learned logical problem solving instead of how to use a set-square? That answer is in all probability a resounding YES. But then also how far is my life education something that I have to take responsibility for? I really don't have the patience for tinkering around with engines, whereas I love tinkering with plays. I don't want to buy fuse testing kits, I would rather be buying character hats.
So here I am, waiting for some bloke, who knows more useful stuff than I do to come along. Thank goodness there are people who know about these things.
And now over to Keith for the travel news ...
Yes thanks, Rob. And what a wise idea it was to book flights for your family trip to Singapore in two weeks time after your nearly ten hour drive back on Saturday. Let's hope that the airport immigration system works much better for you than the land border crossing.
Wise advice from Keith.
(Update: A nice man on a moped arrived and he started the engine second time. Magical fingers?)