What a mug.

Suffice to say, it wasn't as pleasant as this. Photo by Yogi, usual rules apply.

As you may or may not know, I've had a reasonably traumatic last few days. Tweets probably explain things better.

So yes, to say I'm moderately distressed at the moment would be a bit of an understatement. After going for a few drinks/a spot of cheeky networking at Mark's bash (and talking a reasonably large amount of rubbish - it was great fun), I decided to catch a bus home.

Got off, wandered home, down a side street to cut a bit of time off the journey. I don't remember much of what happened next, but I was kicked to the floor and my watch was wrenched from my wrist, £15 and my mobile were taken. No cards were taken, happily. I think the people were just looking for an easy target and for stuff they could sell.

I don't know how long I lay in the street, but I got up and wandered home, getting in at the small hours of the morning.

I then got in touch with the police and 3 mobile (who, despite negative publicity I've been reading, were bloody brilliant). Filed a report (and that was odd as well - you never think it's going to happen to you) and I'm just about to commence talking to my insurance company to try and get cash back for my possessions.

The oddest thing about it all is how much of it I don't remember, and how bits and bobs keep coming back to me. Like how, whilst on the floor, I tried to stop my watch being taken (I've got a lovely set of cuts and bruises on my left hand). And how that watch means so much to me...how, even when incapacitated, I kept thinking about my family traditions and how important those were.

And then you stop and think about things - I could have been bloody killed, or be really really hurt. That all I have is a limp in my left leg (note to anyone I'm meeting this week, I'll try not to be late, but I'm not used to restricted movement), and that I could have been brain damaged or whatever. It doesn't bear thinking about, to be honest with you.

So what've I learned? That my friends and family really look out for me. The number of Facebook messages, calls, tweets and various other things has been amazing. One of my flatmates even came to the police station with me. Thank you all.

I've also realised that the police are brilliant. At least in my area. They are great at covering off the angles and generally getting things done.

I've learned that my health is far more important than any watch, mobile or any possession. It's woken me up to myself. And, yes, I'll get a taxi at 3 in the morning from now on. It was damn stupidity to do otherwise.

Going forward, I think my natural optimism may be irrevocably changed. But that might not be for the worse; not everyone is sweetness and light, and nutters will prey on people they think are easy marks. I'll be more careful, and be a bit more self aware. Also, I have a temporary mobile number for the next few days. Email me if you want it, or check my Facebook page.

On a lighter note - does anyone have a cane? I've always wanted one, and now I can make use of one. At least for the next week or so...heh.