I love the internet. Like most cripples these days, I could barely survive without my computer or the Internet. It’s how I keep in touch with most of my friends and family, do my research, organise my Pas and so on; in fact, I think Lyn and I spend most of our time at our computers. Yet sometimes I think there are cases where you just have to get off your arse, go out into the world, and get stuff done.

Take this morning, for instance. On Saturday we have another wedding to go to, this time in oxford. Now, I know you can book tickets online, but the route we’re going to have to take will be complicated, so after much fretting and trying to work out websites, I said to myself, ”Right, let’s just do it the old way.” I wrote out the following note, printed it, and set off for Charlton train station.

” Hi

On Saturday, me, my wheelchair-using fianc and two personal assistants need to travel from here to oxford. We have an appointment at [omitted] at 3pm. We intend to travel back in the late evening. We need as few changes as possible. Can you help me book tickets and arrange for ramps etc

Your help is greatly appreciated”

I knew I could have typed the message into my lightwriter, but I find sometimes simply handing people notes is faster and more efficient. If memory serves, it’s a technique I used to use when I first started coming to London to visit Lyn. Today, once again, it worked a treat – the woman helping me was bright, attentive, and understood immediately what I needed. It took a little while, but a short time later I rolled out of the station with the tickets, itinerary, and the assistance we’ll need organised. Sometimes, the old ways are the best; the ‘net is great, but there’s nothing like good, knowledgeable people to get stuff organised.