House Sitting

Published in: ‘Newslink’, Headstart A.B.I Service; June 2011

In the past few years, I have rarely been completely on my own. Usually there has always been somebody with me. In the past six months however, my parents have felt more able to go away, so letting me occasionally embrace bachelor-hood.

Last month, I spent a week minding a mate’s house while he was holidaying away. Doing such a thing gave me the chance to put into practice the skills my mother has shown me. This included:

- Keeping the house tidy;

- Shopping for groceries;

- Pottering about the kitchen;

- Cleaning up after myself always;

- Ensuring the cats were fed and  watered;

- Being punctual re: appointments.

I also had to try and find a locksmith after I locked myself out on the second day. In addition to making me an expert at twiddling my thumbs, this also tested my problem solving skills. It’s good to know that if need be, I can still hold the fort!