The Awkward Squad
A Readers' Group by Michael Campling
Hello
Christmas breakfast:- a pannikin of seal's liver, with bacon mixed with biscuits. Each; topped up with a spoonful of blackberry jam; then I set the camera, and we took our photographs with the Union Jack flying and our sledge flags, - I arranged this by connecting a piece of rope line to the lever. Then four hours march. Had a hot lunch. I was cook:- Bovril, chocolate and Plasmon biscuit, two spoonfuls of jam each - Grand!
-Ernest Shackleton
An unusual quote this time, but I heard it read on a BBC programme called the Sleeping Forecast, and it snagged my attention. The programme combines the shipping forecast and soothing music. It's designed to help you get to sleep or at least relax. This episode featured some of Shackleton's logs, and it certainly took my imagination to the frozen wastes. What hard miles those must've been. Even the dogs soon became too weak to help, so the men dragged the sleds while wearing heavy clothes and fighting against the bitter cold and savage winds.
And yet, the man was grateful that his Christmas lunch included two spoons of jam.
There's something very human in that sense of a small luxury savoured. For me, it would've been that chocolate that lifted my spirts. A couple of squares of dark chocolate, at least 70 percent cocoa solids, and I'm happy.
It strikes me that the power of gratitude is a wonderful thing. It's easy to become absorbed in the busy activity of daily life, and we can easily forget to stop for a moment and feel thankful. I know it makes a difference to my state of mind when I remember to be grateful, especially when I'm out for a run. Instead of cursing a hill or my own foolishness for going out in the cold, I'll choose something i can see and be grateful that I'm there to see it.
I'd better get on with this newsletter, but before I do, here's the reference for the quote. It was taken from the website of the Scott Polar Research Institute:
www.spri.cam.ac.uk/archives/shackleton/articles
And if, like me, you were unsure what a pannikin is, it's a small pan or cup.
Onward.
There are some featured photos below, and a couple of bits of book news, but first, here are some words of thanks:
Cheers!
A huge thank you to these kind people who have sent me a mug of tea. I'm raising a cup of Earl Grey in honour of these recent supporters:
Lesley, Chriss, Pat, Nana, Barbara
plus regular supporter: Lara.
Thank you all for your encouragement and support.
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Featured Photos
The nearby town of Bovey Tracey is often mentioned in the Devonshire Mysteries, so I thought I’d share a few photos to give you an idea of its leafy environs.
Generally shortened to one word, Bovey, and pronounced ‘Buvvy’, the town is an old one and still small, but it is an official town, complete with a mayor.
The old mill is a rather fine building, and it now houses a craft centre, gallery and cafe. The items for sale are made by local craftspeople, and it’s interesting to see the furniture, ceramics and so on. There’s a lot of skill on show, and these handmade items are things of beauty.
The town was once connected by rail. Sadly the train line is no more, but the nicely flat route is now a cycle path and enjoyed by walkers, cyclists and runners.
The above are taken from much bigger collections on my website, and the images there are larger, so they're worth a look.
Book News
Soon to be Relaunched
My first novel was called Trespass, and it began a trilogy called The Darkeningstone. You probably already have the prequel, Breaking Ground - I offer it as an Awkward Squad bonus.
I've commissioned new covers for the novels, I've reformatted the books, and all three will be relaunched very soon.
Watch this space/time continuum.
Kobo are promoting a range of great ebooks that are less than 5 pounds or 5 dollars.
Running from February 9 to 19, the sale includes the Devonshire Mystery, Valley of Lies. The promotion covers the following region(s): Canada, United States of America, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand.
What's Next?
I've just finished the third draft of my new police procedural, and the young DC Spiller seems to be a holding up well. I'll be asking the street team if they'd like to be beta readers, so if that sounds interesting, use the following link for more info: The Street Team.
I haven't made any firm plans about my next project yet. I need to get the police thriller on the shelves first, and then I can see what idea grabs me. Whatever it is, you'll be among the first to know - I'll be sure to mention it in a newsletter.
Lastly, I can't sign off without saying how grateful I am for you, dear reader. Thank you so much for joining me on this path. It may not always be a flat one, but I'm thankful for your company. Your support and encouragement keeps me plodding along.
All the best.
Until next time, happy reading and take care.
Mikey C
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