Saying everything I've said before

The enduring appeal of Putney the Panda...

Earlier today, I read a story on the BBC Magazine page which featured someone attempting to start conversations with strangers. I added a comment to the effect that inflatable pandas are the way to go if you wish to make friends when out and about.

I've just had a message via my LinkedIn profile from a total stranger. He apologised for abusing LinkedIn's invitation mechanism, and added that he didn't really want to invite me to join his network, but just wanted to tell me how much he liked the panda story.

What an odd world.

It don't matter if you're black or white

Before my Dad retired, his job took him to a lot of military establishments. He used to refer to "standard army-issue tea" - that is, white-two-sugars. Apparently it was habitually served that way because "everyone" took it like that.

Earlier today, making tea for hjalfi, I observed that my default assumption is white-no-sugar. I have no idea of the prevalence of various tea-preferences, so figure I need a quick poll:

( Tea preference poll )

And yes, tea-tasting. For those who were interested, I know I haven't sorted anything out yet. Life's a bit fraught at present.