Spring in my Step today - by BOY FROM BRISTOL

I had an important client meeting yesterday, and I took extra care with my appearance. I felt good in a new pale grey suit, lilac shirt and a black tie with a sexy, purple floral background. Mrs Boy from Bristol accompanied me. She would be going shopping whilst I visited my client. I stopped off for a newspaper en route.

"You're looking absolutely gorgeous today." The pretty, young Sri Lankan assistant at my local garage smiled serenely. I looked nervously over my shoulder to see who was behind me. The store was empty apart from Mrs Boy from Bristol who was out of sight, probably down the ''Household' aisle comparing detergent prices with the local Supermarkets. I nodded, trying hard to look cool and modest.

" You must be having a very hot date with some lucky young girl." she continued.I didn't even have the decency to blush.

" Chance would be a fine thing" I slipped into my long forgotten flirtation routine as if it had never ended. Then I heard Mrs Boy from Bristol's footsteps approaching quickly, and felt her hot and angry breath upon my neck.

"Just an Evening Post please." The fantasy was over.

"She either has very bad eyesight, or she thinks you have money." We were outside now getting into the car.

"Or she has good taste." I replied, although this was only whispered under my breath.

This little episode just demonstrates the power of a word of praise or a nod of approval. Today, I feel 20 years younger and several inches taller. There's a definite spring in my step, and a gleam in my eye as I go about my duties. I feel good, and I know that I look good . I am wearing a pale grey suit, with lilac shirt and a black tie with a sexy, purple floral background. I might just be wearing this outfit for a few days to come.