An "ordinary" night in Cambridge

Following on from my meeting with Mary the previous Wednesday we organised another evening out and about in Cambridge and agreed to meet in a tourist pub at the edge of what can be considered the main attractions. This time I booked into The Days Inn at Cambridge Services.

As usual despite my best endeavours, I was late arriving at the Pickerel Pub – close to the river in Magdelene Street and much to Mary’s chagrin, when she arrived there some 15 minutes before myself, she found herself in the midst of a gang of football supporters who were watching the footy on a big screen in the backroom.

Dressed in a white flowing skirt, orange top and white jacket, white shoes and bag, I certainly looked summery enough! I parked the car on the street some 600m away and walked confidently through throngs of tourists and entered the pub. Having greeted Mary much to her relief I went to the bar and order a couple of glasses of wine from a very pleasant and accepting girl behind the bar who I entered into conversation with whilst she was opening a new bottle of wine. No raised eyebrows, the world didn’t stop, we were accepted as we presented without a murmur from any of the other clientele and the place was busy (as were all the pubs we visited through the night)

Sitting in the snug chatting away sipping on a glass of wine I quietly reflected on how far I had come in less than a year.

As we wanted to fit in quite a lot, we moved on and after a short debate, chose to eat at the Japanese restaurant adjacent to the river. This was the first time I had eaten Japanese although Mary was very au fait re the menu even speaking Japanese to the girl who took our order. We were lucky enough with the weather to be able to eat outside in the courtyard and watch the world go by as we shared a bottle of wine and I sampled the fare. Again, we were in the middle of other diners without comment or visible signs that we were unwelcome. It just felt normal and as such after a short while it never even crossed my mind even after having to use the ladies.

After eating, we took a couple of piccies by the fountain in the square before continuing on my guided tour of the sites of Cambridge, next stop the famous grasshopper clock opposite one of the famous Universities. Once again we took advantage of the location for a few photographs as the light now had faded.

From the clock, my host took us to The Eagle pub, famous as one of the oldest coaching inns in Cambridge and during World War 2 as the base for American airmen from nearby airbases used for R & R. As we threaded our way through the packed pub, Mary showed me each of the rooms and explained a little of the history including one room where US airmen used to sign their names on the ceiling before leaving for missions over Europe, still evident after so many years. It was the sacrifices of so many men and women so long ago that allows us to enjoy the freedoms that too many take for granted.

By now due to me having to drive, I was on the sparkling mineral water whilst Mary was able to enjoy the wine. The pub was packed with a wide range of nationalities and ages and again we were fully accepted as we presented – you may have noticed a trend in my comments by now.

By now with the clock striking 11, we tried a club round the corner and had another drink in the midst of a group of much younger clientele. More due to our age, I found the atmosphere slightly daunting as was the music (well I am 51!) and so was pleased too move on.

Finally we came across another crowded busy lively bar in a covered precinct beyond the Guildhall where we had another drink whilst being surrounded by lots of young people. I guess I was probably 25 years older than the next oldest there and whilst again we were comfortable, it may have looked a little strange for two middle aged women to be standing there chatting sipping drinks.

With the midnight bell striking, I decided that enough was enough and turned back to walk to my car accompanied by Mary. On passing the Pickerel once more, we noted that they were still open and catching the eye of the young girl behind the bar, who had served me earlier we entered and managed to get the last orders.

Sitting down on my own whilst Mary had gone to the ladies, I was aware of a guy behind me staring at the back of my head. He was on a table with another guy and a girl. I must admit I thought it quite intimidating and so turned around in my seat and with only a few feet between us asked him if there was anything wrong. At this he blushed, stammered something and turned away. Shortly afterwards he left on his own.

On Mary’s return, the girl got up and asked if she could join us, introducing herself with the words “I have been on a blind date with a boring moron, you two look far more interesting”

Drawing up a chair, she explained that she had been in Cambridge for 6 months and was from Leeds. At this moment the other guy (not the one I exchanged pleasantries with) returned and joined us. He was from Chesterfield and we enjoyed a chat whilst Mary engaged the girl in conversation. It was quite a strange feeling for me (sober as a judge) chatting to a bloke I had never met before about all sorts of things whilst dressed.

As 1am approached, we were asked to leave as the pub was shutting and I managed to leave the three of them looking for another pub which might still be serving despite Mary’s power of persuasion.

Walking back to my car at turned 1am on my own I was able to reflect on how I had passed an ordinary night out in full view as Emma and thoroughly enjoying just being accepted.

10 months ago I would wait unto sometimes 2 in the morning before leaving the safety of my hotel room for a quick dash around a deserted street. How times have changed!

Back at the hotel I cleaned off my make up, got undressed and then slipped into my new nighty - virgin white of course! and dropped off pretty quickly.

Always one to push it to the limit, I set my alarm for 6am and getting up, got dressed casually - jeans, pink vest style top, new ballerina style pumps and slipping my jacket on left my room, past the receptionist with a good morning and outside into the car park. I then made my way next door to the services and ordered a sausage and egg mc muffin and a coffee at the MacDonald i the food area. Sitting there sipping my coffee, I realised that no one including the girl who served me , gave a toss a sto how I was dressed. All those tears of self inflicted torment and imposed exile finally were swept away. As they say, us against the world - when do we attack!

Back in my room, time to revert back to me and a short 6 mile drive to work. New shoes don't grow on trees you know!

Roll on next Wednesday and a chance to meet up with all my friends again.

Cambridge with Mary

Cambridge on Wednesday - well, where do I start.

I had arranged to meet up with Mary at 7pm originally at what I thought was a Bistro called CB1 just past the University. I did a quick recce the previous day for parking and had checked it out on google and the route from there to where the Diamonds meet.

Leaving work late I had to delay the meeting to 7-30. Getting ready I realised I had not packed my brushes, my purse and wipes and watch and most of my jewelry! Was ready by 7-28 walked out to the car past 3-4 businessmen on phones and having a ciggy etc and promptly just avoided some arseole running me over. Got in the car and realised I had left my phone behind and so retraced my steps in through what appeared now to be a crowd and picked up the phone and back to the car. It was bloody warm and I was perspiring.

On the road I received a phonecall from Mary telling me she was at the Bistro and sat just inside the door.


I arrived at my designated car park - a multi storey by the swimming pool and strode confidently in my 4" heels, denim skirt and orange top (just bra, knickers and 7 denier natural tights underneath) Here I was in the middle of Cambridge, walking up a main road with loads of students around. I arrived at the Bistro to find no Mary! Checking out the place I was then told it was closing and so I left and rang Mary who was still waiting for me!

It seems that she was waiting for me at CB2 - someway across town and so I trotted off back the way I had come, perspiring and somewhat nervous about finding the new place without any pre knowledge. A number of phone calls between Mary and myself established my directions and also that I may not be what I was presenting - you try speaking to someone on a mobile in the main street dressed in a skirt etc and maintaining the illusion! - no probs really just from a bunch of young Japs who I blew a kiss to!!

Finally, hot and sweaty I arrived at the CB2 which was full to the brim both inside and out and met Mary.
What a wonderful woman she is. We got on really well and had a few glasses of wine and a very tasty meal surrounded by "normal " couples and groups.

Rather than rush off to the meeting, we just chatted away and at 10, Mary and I walked back to my car and she showed me the way to the Bird in Hand - the venue for the Diamonds. She came in briefly to introduce me before leaving as it wasn't really her scene - I know why now and guess what- its not really my scene either.

I stayed for a few bottles of water out of courtesy but was somewhat disappointed to be bringing the evening to a premature halt. It is unfair to form an opinion just on the back of an hour or so, so I will visit again as I am sure the girls will be ok once I get to know them.

Just shows you how special Manchester is and what we have in Manchester.

I was hoping to continue to meet up with my friends in Manchester but logistics means it will probably only be occasional Fridays and Saturdays for Bevs monthly meals

I am hoping to try and get up to the Nottingham group which Emma attended last week but its getting quite near home and I am still faced with a hotel to get changed in etc

Friday the 30th October with Bea is definitely a goer! I am hoping to get over to Suzie's birthday party at PP on the 26th September after rugby as well

Sparkle - The Finale

Having crawled into bed at turned 6am, I was obviously up and about bright eyed and bushy tailed by 10am! – NOT

Midday came and went and poking my eye out with the mascara brush, reminded me to be more careful where I stuck things!

Catching up with Di, we got ready and walked up to outside Taurus and joined June and Di for brunch. The weather was kind and quite muggy, I was wearing my grey denim distressed skirt and white top and my KGs on my feet, bare legs still.

Having finished our club sandwich, the four of us walked over to The Arndale Centre via Peacocks where I purchased 2 new tops. One was all gold glittery – guaranteed to give Kate a run for her money, the other on oversize red t-shirt with big holes down the side- big mistake (returned the following week when out in Leicester!)

June and Di went on their way leaving Jackie and me to wander the shopping precinct. We stopped and sat down in one of the squares eating an ice cream watching the world go by with not a care in the world – acceptance – what a great feeling. Shame the picture we took came out blurred – no excuse will have to do it again!

In and out of the shops we shopped, shopped and shopped. Not sure who was going to give up first but it wasn’t going to be me! Because I don’t have enough shoes, I managed to try on and purchase a new pair of heels from Next in a caramel shade which obviously meant I then needed to buy an outfit to go with my new shoes! I also managed to try on and buy a pair of low heeled sandals from Debenhams which I swapped with my KGs for the remained of our shopping. 4” heels looked good but as we have all found out, after an hour or so of intense shopping, the ankles and toes start screaming!

Not a single adverse comment throughout the afternoon, plenty of interface with shop assistants and the general public. Great feeling!

On the way back to the apartment we stopped at Taurus for a drink or two or three. In accessing the bar we ran the gauntlet of a load of kilt wearing Scotsmen teaching / demonstrating Scottish dancing outside on the pavement – I believe they call themselves The Gay Gordons! – enough said!

With an evening out beckoning – we had tickets for The Lady Boys of Bangkok, we got back to the apartment and opened another bottle of wine whilst chilling out and getting ready. Meeting Di and June at The Union pub for 7-15, we had plenty of time until suddenly its 7pm and I am still not ready!!!

Rushing, we made the pub for 7-20 to find no one. Ringing Di ascertained that they were already at the Marquis and so we trotted over to them – NOT (in these shoes – you must be bloody joking!!)

We made it with 5 minutes to spare although in the rush, I had not managed to rob the hole in the wall and so Di had to bail us out. At £14 a round, it was far from cheap (June was only drinking coke!)

We made our way to our table – close to the front and centre and joined 6 women (from Stockport) at the table. Soon afterwards thanks to June’s gift of the gab, we were all getting on fabulously just in time for the show to start.

Not really knowing what to expect, I can safely say I was gobsmacked. The show was very professional, firmly tongue in cheek humour.

We were all overwhelmed by the show and I can wholeheartedly recommend the show for an evening of entertainment.

At the interval, they invited members of the audience onto the stage for a photograph. Well as you all know, I am shy and reserved and struggled with my conscience before finding the £5 fee and joining my wife and June on stage in front of 300 strangers with three of the stars of the show for a group picture.

There is something unreal about, having climbed up the steps onto the stage wearing my “glittery” short dress, having to pull it down from where it had ridden up! in front of so many people.

After the show we were standing in the street chatting with a couple of the girls from Rose’s when the Cast all walked by on their way to ?

Having not eaten yet, we made our way to Villagios where we enjoyed a pleasant meal and a couple more glasses of wine before moving on.

Jackie and I left Di and June to return to the apartment or Jackie to get changed whilst June freshened up. It was at this time that we had our only negative experience when we (Jackie and I) were heckled by a pair of gays outside The Union pub. Personally I felt sorry for the two guys as my wife decided to round on them – verbally that is. I’m sure that what she threatened them with is physically impossible outside an operating theatre!

Anyway, as I was feeling ok, I decided to wait outside th Atrium whilst my wife changed. Whilst hanging around on the street (you can see whats coming!) at midnight, a car pulled over (Volvo S40) and I naively bending over to speak to the driver – assuming he was lost!, was somewhat shocked to be propositioned! My answer was short succinct and to the point.

Jackie p…..ed herself when eventually she rejoined me!

Re joining June and Di in The Union where there was some sort of talent show ongoing, we had a few more drinks before getting a little fed up and strolled up the street looking for somewhere else. Unfortunately at 1am on Canal street on a Sunday there was little option but to return to the Union and have a nightcap before retiring for the night.

Monday morning dawned – allegedly because I for one didn’t see this momentous event! – made a change! We packed our cases and then got ready for a day’s shopping at Cheshire Oaks. Wearing a white vest top, tight jeans and my brown black shoes with a chunkier heel – still 4” we made our way back to the car over at Charles Street and on passing reception I paid for a late check out (4pm) exchanging pleasantries with the receptionist.

Driving over to Cheshire Oaks, I was mindful that the last time we did this Jackie was pretty stressed out(and I failed to recognise the fact) – well it was only the 2nd time she had been out with Emma and so this time I kept a careful eye on her. However I must admit after three days of Emma at Sparkle, she was far more at ease than before and we enjoyed a pleasant 4 hours shopping as two women.

Stopping for breakfast at the Brasserie we both enjoyed Egg Benedictine and a nice cup of tea before walking eth length and breadth of the mall.

Jackie purchased some new leather boots, underwear from La Sensa, and a pair of metallic leggings, whilst I stocked up on eye make up from Revlon, new knickers from La Sensa, bra and knickers from M&S.

All too soon, we had to make our way back having stopped for some liquid refreshments which we enjoyed in the afternoon sunshine. Back at the apartment, Jackie finished packing whilst I stripped off all vestiges of Emma knowing that with my new job in Cambridge, my regular trips out and about in Manchester and tea at Teelas were going to be seriously curtailed.

Writing about the weekend now some 3 weeks after Sparkle, I can’t really emphasise just how far I have come since speaking to some one about Emma for the very first time in early September! What great memories I share with my good friends. This long weekend will help sustain me in the coming months as I have to readjust to a different work life pattern.

Finally, I would just like to publicly thank my wonderful wife for the way she has handled my revelation – it has not been as easy for her as people may think.

Well two weeks to Manchester probably for the last time mid week and the day after we celebrate our 26th Wedding Anniversary – I have booked the Thai Restaurant in Melton and Emma will be nowhere in sight! Good Night, God Bless. See you all soon.