Pots

While working, I listened to a YouTube video from the Everything Electric Show: Onboard the UK's First Battery Electric Train! I was surprised that the train was the first of its type. I wonder if being able to charge batteries on trains might help power electric trains when there are issues with the overhead lines or third rail and reduce delays for passengers.

That is precisely the type of delay that hit me today. I should have known all wasn't well when the Waterloo-bound trains were delayed en route to my Tai Chi class. But it was the kind of delay that meant I stepped on a late-running train that had been due to depart before I arrived at Raynes Park station. Therefore, I arrived ahead of time.

The class was good. We did a lot of short form, which I like because I can concentrate on minor adjustments as I have, more or less, got the basics in my head. On the way back via Lower Marsh, I watched as a car had to reverse back into traffic as the street is closed to traffic for most of the evening. I am unsure why the planters were attractive to picture, but they were.

I returned to find Waterloo bathed in prominent red notices. You know it must be bad when the advertising screens are switched to disruption alerts. Eventually, a train appeared on a platform going in the right direction, and half of the concourse headed for the gates. While making my way onboard, I noticed a lady with a white stick standing motionless amidst a swarm of frustrated passengers rushing to board. I decided to check she was OK, and I am glad I did. The station assistant booked to meet her was not around—I assume because of the severe delays—but she was a bit stuck. I was able to walk with her to the gateline, where I found some help.

I still managed to board the train as it hadn't moved. It sat for a further 45 minutes, during which time various groups jumped off, having consulted their phones and maybe finding an alternative route. But then another crowd would board. Eventually, we left and were warned of further significant delays beyond Wimbledon. Many people disembarked at Wimbledon, but I risked staying on to Raynes Park, which turned out fine.

It was at Raynes Park that my day took a bad turn. I was heading down the steps when, towards the bottom, I found myself holding onto the railing as my legs disappeared from under me. I have no idea what happened. But when I righted myself, I discovered that my left leg was in agony. The pain was terrible. I am unsure how I got home; I almost crawled the last few steps. I threw myself through the front door and collapsed into the hallway.

When I had caught my breath and been helped to the sofa, I couldn't see any bruising or damage, and my leg moved (if painfully). So, in spite of the pain, I took some painkillers, ate my dinner, and then went to bed.