Spinning, Not Turning

Someone told me, back in April, that the world would look very different for me in twelve months. I only half believed that might be possible. But almost exactly twelve months ago I posted ‘The Shape of Comfort’ here, declaring that, despite needing a new mattress, I couldn’t bear to part with the one that still bore Mags’ impression. The shallow point of her departure. Yesterday morning I drove into Salisbury and ordered a new mattress. I thought, as I left the store, I might feel that I had betrayed Mags on some level but I didn’t. I’m discovering that as the months pass by and life moves forward reality is always at heel like a well trained hound, primed to bark warnings, ready to step across and protect.

On entering the store I had it fixed in my mind that choosing and ordering would be simple and straightforward. I wanted a standard double mattress. One that I could spin and/or turn periodically. I was told that all mattresses these days are spin only. People, apparently, don’t want the hassle of turning a mattress. Spinning is the way to go. But before I could test the various types on display I would need to lie flat on a bed that would determine my sleeping posture and come up with recommended choices. I remained on my back for around five minutes - even though I sleep on my side - and eventually, after a lot of freaky movement beneath me, I was ready to be shown my options. In the end I chose medium firmness. I should remember the details regarding pocket springing and memory foam but I’m not great at absorbing sales chatter. My ears did prick up when I discovered I qualified for a free extended guarantee, a travel pillow and a mattress cover. It was a little like being a guest on The Generation Game. No cuddly toy though.

I still find things like shopping for replacement goods - a minor event when you are one half of a couple - energy draining experiences. I slept soundly on the sofa for two hours after lunch. Not something I usually do. I only hope that the new mattress, too, will carry me comfortably through the nights as promised.