Sharp-witted readers among you may have noticed that this column has been gracing your morning coffee (or, let’s be honest, lining your compost bin) since June 2014.
That’s over a decade of my musings, proof that I can ramble on about absolutely nothing for a very long time.
When I was first asked to contribute to this esteemed publication, I was both honoured and utterly stunned.
Writing a regular column wasn’t even on my to-do list.
My typewriter was already busy holding up one corner of my wonky desk, and I was pretty sure it was plotting against me.
Could I really deliver thoughtful, engaging content week after week? And how many ink ribbons would I need for this ancient relic?
But, I embraced the challenge, and here we are, years later, still going strong.
Along the way, I’ve discovered that words have a magical way of connecting us, even across oceans.
I’ve received letters from Wales (of course), but also from Canada, America, and once, inexplicably, from someone claiming to read me on a boat in the South Pacific. I mean, who knew I had such a global fanbase?
Much of my inspiration comes from the wonderfully peculiar characters I meet during my travels.
Their stories fuel my creativity and spare you from a column packed with ads for double glazing.
Without them, this space would be as vibrant as a wet weekend in Merthyr Tydfil, no offence to Merthyr!
Writing this column has taught me that words are more than just letters on a page; they’re a bridge, a mirror, and occasionally, a very effective excuse for avoiding DIY.
So, here’s to the power of language and the many stories yet to be told.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, my typewriter just fell off the desk again. Clearly, it’s trying to escape.