What I have I learnt about Phyllis over the eighteen months he has lived with me, is he is incredibly smart.
A few examples:
While checking into the caravan park at the weekend, I was given the usual sheet of paper with a map and the route to our cabin highlighted, and another with the Wi-Fi password and some other information, including the six digit code plus hash for the car boom barrier to enter and exist the park. The first time we exited the park, I realised we had forgotten the paper with the written code. It's ok Andrew, I remember the code. What? I read the code out to him when we entered and there was nothing memorable about the code.
Bone Doctor suggested we take the scenic route home, via her old home town, and it would only take a few minutes longer. It was good choice to travel via the twisting road, and Phyllis drove without fault at a speed like an experienced driver. I only opened my gob once when near home on the motorway and I told him he was too close to the car in front.
When he moved here, he did not know how to cook. With the assistance of the internet and his mother, plus a little advice from he who professes to not know how to cook, he quickly picked it all up and became a competent cook, better, like Ray, an instinctive cook. As I have told him though, not everything needs to be spiced up. Steamed broccoli alone is delicious, as are many vegetables. Cauliflower and brussels sprouts are excluded.
He and Kosov are bilingual, Kosov having improved his English a lot since he moved in to my home. Between them, they mostly speak their own language but at times switch to English. I don't dumb down the way I speak when talking to them.
I won't say Phyllis is manipulative, but he could be if not guided by a firm yes or no. By instinct I tend to say no, and then think about it, and maybe say yes later. He has worked out that if I say no, he just needs to wait for me digest what he has asked or suggested.
Whatever, they are both agreeable and fun guys and I am fortunate to have them in my life.
Phyllis sounds like quite a character, but I don't mind brussell sprouts so much as long as they are correctly cooked and not still hard, have a nice week.
ReplyDeletePhyllis sounds nice. I like cauliflower and Brussels sprouts.
ReplyDeletePhyllis and Kosov have certainty enriched your life. and you theirs . As a ex teacher of second language students on of the magical things for them is the opportunity to speak English in a range of situations. That’s what they are getting from you and your rellies . Many overseas students tend to live with same language households and do not have that opportunity. So it’s a a win for all of you . Veggies don’t need tarting up , though the smell of spices in a kitchen is delicious in itself.
ReplyDeleteThis warms my heart. I'm thrilled that my initial concern was beyond unfounded. :D I would have a tremendous amount of fun hanging out with the three of you. ~nods~ Be well!
ReplyDeleteWow - 18 months. Seems like only yesterday on the one hand but also forever. A brave move at the time but one that has worked out so well for all of you.
ReplyDeleteYeah. They were here when we caught up, and their bedroom window was retinted. Where's my invitation to catch up with you and your friend nearby me?
DeleteI hope they stay a part of your life for as long as possible.
ReplyDeletePhyllis sounds like a very handy person to have around, it's nice that he respects your "no" and waits to ask again after you think it through.
ReplyDeleteYour life sure has changed all around.
ReplyDeleteVery nice to read, Andrew!
ReplyDeleteI get the feeling that the relationship has been good for all involved.
ReplyDeleteHuman connections are to be treasured
ReplyDeleteLovely post, Andrew. You have written some lovely things about your two guests and what Phyliss in particular has accomplished and you are lucky as you say to have them, but, they are very lucky to have you. :)
ReplyDeleteYou've all created a nice little family for yourselves.
ReplyDeleteThey are lucky to have you and vice versa.
ReplyDeleteI remember you being so uncertain about opening your home. It's so good that you did.
ReplyDeleteThese 2 have been a bonus in your life Andrew in so many ways. I always admire those who have to learn a second language, often very quickly too.
ReplyDeleteXO
WWW
The lads have become a big part of your life which is a good thing, Andrew. You lucked out with these two.
ReplyDeleteThis post makes me happy for the three of you...and your little cat too!
ReplyDelete