Shocker

After another attempted break-in over the weekend we had an electric fence installed at our offices today.
~ A year ago today I was trying to photograph my cats ~ 

Combination

Part of my daily routine is locking and unlocking this chain. We've a burglar alarm and security gates but this is just one extra level of security, just in case.
~ A year ago today I was shopping for gifts ~ 

Vandalism

Arrived at work this morning to find that someone had lobbed a beer bottle threw one of our windows. Urgh, what a mess! 
~ A year ago today I was reading historical novels ~ 

Armed

One of my neighbours was accosted in the street late last night, resulting an a bit of a neighbourhood disturbance. One gets a big fright when crime starts happening almost literally on one's door step. It prompted me to get my burglar alarm checked and restore the security company signage on my wall. Not sure it's much of a deterrent, but it can't hurt.

~ A year ago today I was looking at cameras ~ 

Ring

A week or so back one of my keys broke. Finally got around to have another one cut. In fact, did a whole spare set. One chore done off my long non-urgent to do list.
~ A year ago today I was sitting outside in the sunshine ~

Passage

A friend and I went down to Clifton 3rd beach for sundowners this afternoon. We had a relaxed hour or so enjoying the sun, but left early when it got windy. And then some random guy tried to mug us on the stairs on the way up! Fortunately when M screamed loudly he ran away. Yikes, gave us a horrible fright.
~ A year ago today I was contemplating take a ride of the ferris wheel~

Bunch

I got yet another new key today. Far too many on the bunch these days I reckon, but what can one do? Got to be safe and secure.
~ A year ago today I was admiring the sculpture on the Promenade ~

Feel-better Milk Tart

After yesterday's unpleasant mugged-on-the-mountain experience Michele's mom sent over a home-baked milk tart. Comfort eating has never been so yummy! Thank you Cathy, your kindness is much appreciated. And thanks Michele too, for all the help and support and driving me around to get stuff sorted.

Beware the Fraudsters!

This morning I got an sms from the bank notifying me of a large debit on my account. As I had made no such transaction I immediately rang their call centre and then had to go down to the bank in person to complete a bunch of paperwork (letter of dispute and affidavit, stamped at the police station) and get the debit card cancelled. How this happened is a bit of a mystery as I very seldom use this card and had it my possession all along. Never thought I'd be the victim of fraud! Even though it was a lot of hassle, the bank was very helpful and hopefully all will be sorted out in a couple of days. Phew!

Storm Damage

Last night a gale force wind storm blew into town, with gusts up to 75km per hour. Buildings lost roofs and trees were blown over. I didn't get much sleep. The wind was whistling through the windows, doors rattling. The wooden fence on the boundary of the property came adrift and was banging. In the morning I saw that some of the wooden slats had been split and ripped off. My neighbour helped out with a temporary solution: extra boards secured with cable ties and rope. Hopefully it will be good for a few more weeks - the fence is due to be replaced early in the new year. The wind is still blowing and will only die down tomorrow evening. I reckon it is going to be another long night.

Under Lock & Key

Last week my garden hosepipe was stolen. I didn't want the same thing to happen to the replacement so I've had to buy a chain and padlock to secure it to the tap. I find the whole business so absurd and annoying.