Carl to the rescue

I walked up to the garage Tescos at the top of Stonegrove, first thing to buy some coffee speaking to Lorraine there and back. Then breakfast, and a shower and getting to grips with funeral directors. I had the brilliant idea of calling Carl because of course he knows all the stuff backwards, and we had a three way chat.

Turns out the Undertakers that had been recommended by a neighbour, and has strong reviews online, was one Carl had once used.  Greatly reassuring to talk him through where we were to sense check everything. Carl making Mum laugh telling her to get the Carl Basket ready for a visit. The Carl Basket was a big wicker basket filled with pillows and a sleeping bag for use when Carl spent the night.  

After a judicious shower, Mum and I caught a bus to Burnt Oak, and spoke to the undertakers. We have an appointment tomorrow at 11, but I got the impression that as we have an interim death certificate, we may be able to go ahead with the funeral. 

Mum had a kind and thoughtful note from Brad.

Felt like we had made a step forward which was pleasing. Home and after a cup of tea and a scone we cantered off for The Wagon and Horses. Many of the same crew there as yesterday. One of whom had a puppy with them, that had apparently shat in his trainers at 3.AM. I am a bit on the sweary side from time to time, but never have I heard the word shit said so many times in an hour. Literally hundreds. Very unusual interlude. 

Nice Neighbours planning to drop in tomorrow. The oaf next door ignoring Mum as we walked outside to go to the funeral directors.   

We had a snack and one drink then came home. I wrote to Robin and then did an email to Barnet Registry about using the government's Tell Us Once service with an interim death certificate. More Kafkaesque nonsense. 

Mum called more people to let them know about Mas. Anton called me, which was nice, I cooked and we settled down to watch several episodes of MASH and have some wine. Toby lad called again and we had half an hour chatting with him. Then bed.