With a title like that, I guess you shalln’t be expecting tales of carvel cakes, sunday B-BQ’s and or Noxzema commercials.

I’ve been battling flu and a major toe infection this week. Along with the impending doomcloud over my head that is depression. However, I’m still standing.

My lil bout of illness has allowed me to become reacquainted with those things that fill my heart with empathy, mind with understanding and soul with enlightenment. I read and reread classics, modern novels and biographies of those who influenced me. Rimbould, (pronounce it RAMBO and I’ll punch you in the Gob), Larkin, the Manic Street Preachers, so on and so forth.

I’ve also been listening to a lot of Tears for Fears. What a band. So determined, so innovative.

What on earth is it with the past that comforts me? Self-knowledge, realisation? Reminders of happier times gone by? I’m transported back to being 10 again. In so many ways, I am utterly prepared to grow up, and in others, I just want to lie down in my bed and paint or write. I’m awaiting the Bluebird of Happiness right about now. I know it can’t be too much longer, since I’m determined to get out of this mess as soon as I possibly may. Bless nostalgia. Calgon, take me away!