South WalesFriday came and went. Neil managed to get his medical sorted. The doctor certified his health to be good. We got the paperwork to the licensing office only to find that Alan had already left and would be back on Monday at the earliest. We just had to take it on the chin. I tried to lift Neil’s spirits. ‘Let’s focus on the positives. We've got a party to go to.’ ‘I'm trying to focus on the positives, but I feel financially embarrassed all the time.’ ‘Look don't worry, after next week that’ll have changed.’ I lent Neil £150. It would tide him over until he started earning. He seemed a bit happier after that. With all the disruption I hadn't worked much during the week. Once Neil was granted his badge, things would settle down. I’d then be able to pull my finger out and get some Xs in. We spent what seemed like most of Friday evening shopping and marinating different meats. Gone were the days I'd make up special sauces.
