Back in the saddle

My goal for today was to get back on track and head to BCD printing, one of the printers that produces prayer cards for funerals. There’s a location near my leasing agent but Wim and I saw what looked like more of a “main office” on our way back from Marsalforn so I decided to hoof it. I got within a block of the Rabat cemetery (which is practically in Xewkija) and turned around. If it wasn’t on that route then I would need to take the bus anyway. On the walk back I stopped at Arcadia and got a cappuccino. You gotta love the interactions at the mall – it’s like one big stroller parking lot. Lots of moms and babies.

After my “break” I headed for home, stopping at the other BCD location on the way. I couldn’t tell if there was anyone even operating out of there since it wasn’t a first floor office, but I think I’ll go back tomorrow. I took the long walk back, trying to figure out what my next plan of attack was. Just as I got to the apartment I decided the least I could do was follow up with Kilena so I took the side street beyond St. George’s and I stumbled across a store I’d never noticed before. It’s called “Moments” and they list themselves as a souvenir shop but they also provide flower arrangements for all occasions. Perfect! So I went in and introduced myself to the owner and asked if I could ask her some questions. She was really nice and it turns out that she’s married into George’s family (the funeral director I’ve been talking with!) He keeps talking about his cousins who are also in the carpentry business (they own G&A Carpentry) and it just so happens that her husband is their brother – so also one of George’s cousins! What a crazy small island! I was so relieved to get another interview and get the wheels back in motion.
We talked for over an hour and she was very helpful. For starters, she confirmed what Wim and I were wondering about hearing different church bells to signify that someone died. George had mentioned that people ask him to arrange them but I wasn’t sure they’d be different from the tone/ring they use for mass. She said there is a different ring for masses and then another to notify that someone is “on their last leg” and then another for when someone dies. She gave me her card and told me I could call anytime and come back whenever I want. We made arrangements for me to go back on Thursday. I think I will try BCD again tomorrow and circle back with Kilena as well. I also should try to see George this week so I can check out his shop with the coffins. Sounds creepy but hey – that’s me I guess. Reminds me of the line in the new HP movie that Areyl and I loved so much. Ron says, “it’s a creepy shop and he’s a creepy bloke.” Ha.