LOCKDOWN 1

Hello Everyone,

As is my custom I am preparing this blog on Tuesday 22nd for Friday. Thinking. Yesterday was Day 455. 455 days since we went into lockdown last year for a period of 21 days. Well, that was what we were told initially. I am still writing about the pandemic in lockdown although it has now become the Covid Chronicles and is around the 300,000 word mark or about the length of three novels! At least I have been active and constructive during our confinement. Had our Boris's roadmap been on course Sunday would have been my farewell and Monday 21st June, the Summer Solstice, was to be our first day of freedom. Our first day without shackles. Alas, it was not to be! We continue for another month. We have been assured that lockdown will not go on any longer than that. However, observations... cases and deaths are rising in numbers. So, what will happen next month? My guess is that there will be a new kind of tier system under another name. In that case, I shall still be writing because somewhere in the UK it will be lockdown and shackles. In 400 years time, I see myself seated on a cloud in deep conversation with Samuel Pepys. We will be discussing the diaries we have left for the world to devour. I thought this week I would go back to those first days and share my early scribing and first blog on Lockdown with you. Enjoy!

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Well, these are unprecedented and dire times which we are living through. I am a writer! So, when we heard the PM's announcement on Monday evening what did I decide to do? Write a daily log of thoughts, ideas, plans and my daily life. After the elderly and vulnerable were advised to self-isolate for 12 weeks I made a list of things to do. Keeping occupied and positive will help our sanity through trying times. I decided to change my planned blogs and do special ones on Lockdown sharing my days and thoughts hoping they will put a smile on your face. 

Lockdown  time

Good morning. It is 11.23 Tuesday morning, 24^th March 2020. I am reclining on the sofa with my cuppa (no not wine, well in a week or two, maybe!) of coffee and watching Holly and Phillip on television. ‘This Morning’ they tell us has been declared essential in these trying times. The sun is shining, soon I shall go out and collect the bins. I heard the bin men come earlier and that is about all that is normal in this unprecedented situation.

Last night at 8.29 Boris Johnson, our PM, made an announcement. He explained the dire Coronavirus situation and desperate measures of isolation which must be taken in order to save lives. We already had restrictions in place, working from home where possible, self isolation, public places where peeps socialised advised to close, parks and open spaces staying open for exercise but we must stay two metres a part. Sadly, we have idiots in our community who decided to see the pleasant weekend as a holiday. They rushed to holiday spots and got as close to each other as they could. So now, we are in lockdown. Pretty soon, I guess most countries will be in the same situation. Some already are.

As many of you know I am a night owl. I rise late and am awake until the small hours. So, it was 10.30 when I strained myself to get out of bed on auto pilot. I walked into my library and looked out on to our little street which by this time of day is normally a car park. Today, just residents cars. No cars on the distant Tesco car park and very few vehicles on the road. At last peeps have heeded the warning and are forced to conform. Once dressed I visit the computer for email and games on FB. Was there a life before social media? Where would we be now without it?

Then, I staggered down the stairs, something which is getting harder with age. Breakfast time and turn on downstairs television and iPad. The first thing I do and have done for a week is look at the updated number of  Coronavirus cases locally. Depressing and frightening. Today, it’s 31. What will it be tomorrow?

Before the second cuppa I decided to go out at the back of my property and bring in the bins. I looked down the street and someone was taking the opportunity to clean her car but too far down to engage in conversation. Then another vehicle came round the corner, an opposite neighbour. Apparently, he had been out for essential items like milk and found it extremely difficult to find any. One of the supermarkets had an unimaginable queue of peeps clinging to trolleys at a safe distant apart. He eventually bought milk from a corner shop. Yes, we had social intercourse but were two metres apart.

After the second cuppa I returned to the library and worked at the computer while admiring the outside world. It was like being in that parallel universe I frequently talk of. So few vehicles and I observed two buses pass both without passengers. I guess the usual ones are senior citizens with passes and they are all in self isolation.

Later, I came back downstairs and opened up my porch/conservatory for the summer. During the winter months I only use it as storage. Soon, it will be full of beautiful plants with room for a chair so that I can sit in it and enjoy our glorious summer which will come at the end of this insanity.

For the rest of the day I have played games and watched television. I made one phone call. Part of my survival programme is to phone one person each day. I predict the telephone will make a come back and peeps will actually talk as opposed to texting. Right now, I’m watching a rerun of ‘Midsomer Murders’ with a glass of wine. As of yet I have not succumbed to the chocolate but tomorrow who knows?

Soon, I’m going to enjoy a bubble bath before retiring. Hey we’ve survived day one of lockdown and to quote Scarlett O’Hara , ‘tomorrow is another day’.

Day 2,

Good morning! The sun is still shining. First things first, do I have a temperature or cough? No, so thankfully I have not yet succumbed to this virus. Thank you Lord for sparing me. If you remember, peeps, I lost my insignificant other to Cancer last September. He was a medium and I recall what he said after the 911 terrorist attack. It was the beginning of many bad things, there would be more attacks, floods and disease. It was going to be like the plagues of Egypt all over again and when it’s over the world will be a better place. Is this the last of the ‘new plagues’?

Breakfast time and I check the local number of cases, it is still 31. I guess that’s some good news for now. The breaking news is that Prince Charles has contracted the virus, even royalty is not immune. I wonder what would be on the news if there were no Coronavirus?

My plans for the rest of the day? First, second cuppa. Still no wine at breakfast time but I did finish a bottle off last night. Then, I’m gonna get the car out of the garage and clean the interior, maybe the outside. That depends on how energetic I feel. Later, I shall continue repotting or taking cuttings from my plants and put more of them into my summer conservatory. Yes, I’ll be watching television and on the computer. I shall also make my daily phone call. Have made a list and will phone Shirley, someone I met on hols a few years ago. I have decided to plan each evening for what I intend doing the next day. I may not stick to it but it’s worth a try.

As a writer I am used to solitude and self isolation so you would think this lockdown would be easy for me. No. The difference is one of choice. My freedom and freedom of choice have been taken from me. In one sense we are being treated like prisoners. Loss of freedom through no fault of our own or if we are suffering new plagues maybe it is our fault for choosing materialism over humanity during the last decades. We have become selfish and greedy people as opposed to considerate human beings. Just look at the empty supermarket shelves.

I’m now thinking about prisoners. Are they thinking, 'now you know how we feel?' Anyway, we must all stay positive and united through this madness.

Here I am again. It is 7.15 and I’m watching ‘Emmerdale’. The day has gone pretty well, all things considered. The car has had an interior clean and the surplus grime has been removed from the exterior. Full wash? Too energetic and not essential in these trying times. Yes, more plants are sorted and looking pretty in the conservatory. The birds have been fed. 

I made that phone call and, I think, I brightened the day for someone. She seemed to think it was a good idea. I have another victim ready for tomorrow.

Today, we have all been aware of the best and the worst of people. Over 400,000 have answered the Governments call for help. At the other extreme there’s profiteering and those trying to steal NHS workers identity badges to get priority at supermarkets. On a positive note it does seem that the message is hitting home. Fewer people congregating and more staying at home.

Somehow, we will get through this. I have plans for tomorrow.

Day 3,

Good morning peeps,

It’s about 11.00 and I’m enjoying breakfast while looking at the sunshine. It’s not raining and that’s something to be thankful for. Each morning and actually throughout the day I’m checking my forehead. Am I feverish? Now, I had a slight cough before this pandemic. Like most things I put it down to old age but each time I cough I ask myself the question, Is it a dry cough? Then I check my forehead again. So far, I’m fine. I’ve checked the local casualty list and that’s not so good. It has gone up to 50.

Hey, positivity is a must in these situations. Firstly, staying at home means staying at home but your home includes balconies, gardens, drives and patios! Also, we are luckier than in previous decades because we have television and social media. Think back to the days of bubonic plague.

What are my plans for today? Enjoy it, make the most of it and get through it. I will be spring cleaning, carrying on potting plants, washing up and I will be doing a special blog for tomorrow. Next weekend my little booklet LIFE IS… will be on free download. The book designed to cheer people up. Later today I will make the daily phone call and at 8.00 pm I shall be applauding our NHS workers.

Stay safe and well.

That is my first three days of ramblings, activities, positivity and even without ice cream. I would like to share one further thing with you from my JUST BE POSITIVE post last year.

All of my New year blogs are optimistic and offer positivity for the future. I've suggested taking new ideas and opportunities; taking each day as a new beginning. Looking at life as an exciting adventure; seeing every day as a holiday. Always looking for the good and the advantage of every situation or dilemma. So, I would like to leave you with this blog in the hope that if you are going through a difficult time you may find something positive besides a smile to help you through the dark days.

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Love to you all, Lady M xxxx

Lockdown 10

Peaceful and serene in the Sandwell Valley 

Hello everyone,

Believe it or not but we are in week 10 of lockdown. We have just had our third Bank hols weekend in lockdown. Peeps are asking for an extra one in October to compensate for the loss of normal activities on these occasions. Some countries are recovering and have removed the lockdown rules. However, the global figure is 5,607,000 cases and 348,000 deaths. We are told that things are getting better. Let’s hope so. I would like to share my weekend log with you. Enjoy!

Day 61, Saturday. Groundhog Day 8265

Hello, another weekend. I feel many will act stupidly this weekend and that’R’ thing will rise again causing us to go back into full lockdown. It’s sunny but very, very breezy today. What do I have to look forward to? Hopefully, my darling will be round later and I’m going to enjoy the download of The Sound of Music.

3.45. My reward for waiting and listening… those melodic tones. He’s stopped by my gate. Off to pick up coins and …yea!

Now, it’s update time again. I’ve had a great time until this moment. The Sound of Music, an American adaptation for television was fantabulous. Then, my Antonio arrived just as Captain Von Trapp was singing Edelweiss. I put it on pause, then enjoyed my 99 with his singing. Deffo a productive and delightful day.

Listening to the update briefing. Once again, it started with the testing figures which they are so proud of. Then those amazing, fictitious figures and graphs. Apparently, they are going down and we’re still be low 1 on the R thing, ratio or reproduction. I’ve heard both used. What seems to be the main item today… a naughty aide, to our PM, has broken the rules…resignation is being called for. Dominic Cummings travelled over two hundred miles from London to County Durham during the lockdown when his wife had coronavirus virus symptoms, and he was worried about both of them getting the virus. Mr Cummings and his wife went to his parents' home to self-isolate. They were concerned about their four year old child being looked after if they both became victims. They self isolated in a separate property from his extended family. It is questionable as to whether the PM new or sanctioned it. Was he actually breaking the rules or not? He was acting in the interest of caring for his child, that is not against the rules but travelling beyond the local area is. Is there one rule for politicians and aides, but another for the rest of us? There are references to two other politicians who have broken lockdown rules and resigned. Professor Neil Ferguson, medical advisor from SAGE, who allowed his lover to join him in lockdown and Dr Catherine Calderwood, chief medical officer in Scotland, who drove to her holiday home twice, after telling everyone else not to travel.

Think I’ve had enough of this for today. Going to switch it off now. For the rest of the day? Play, eat, drink, watch tv. Finally, luxury bubble bath before bed. 

Stay safe everyone. Back tomorrow.

Day 62, Sunday, special day.

Another new day, another adventure! 

Today, I look forward to the morning service, Songs of Praise, and ice cream.

What’s the news all about? Mainly, Dominic Cummings’ resignation. Secondly, the funerals in Pakistan of the air crash victims. What should have been a weekend of Eid celebrations has become a weekend of mourning. Another example of taking nothing for granted. Every thing can change in a second, or blink of an eye. So, take each day as a blessing, a new beginning, be thankful and enjoy what you have. Jealousy, bitterness, fighting, anger are negative and destroy life, and happiness. 

Hey, Brexit has just been mentioned again. Remember that? They still see it as going ahead on time despite the predicted recession. So, there’s going to be a recession? I thought that was going to be avoided by inflating the economy. Or was that yesterday’s news? 

There was a saying in my youth, “it will be tomorrow’s fish and chip paper”, simply meaning that whatever makes the newspapers today, will only be seen tomorrow, when the newspaper is used for wrapping fish and chips. For the youth of today; I talk of a time before social media and texting but after the days of the town crier. Everyone, who had any form of income, purchased a newspaper to be informed of national and international events. That was before television as well. I remember those days when we all sat round and engaged in something called “conversation” as opposed to grunting while glued to a smart phone. Ah, memory lane again!

Thinking back to 1952, our Queen was a happy princess in Kenya, unaware of the fact that she had ascended to the throne, or that her father had passed away, for a day. It took that long to get a message through. Now, such an event would be global and on Facebook in less than a second. 

11.45. Singing along to Come down love divine from a service at Bangor Cathedral.

Okay, peeps, the sun is out but I’m still waiting and listening. As of yet, no melodic tones.

I have been naughty this afternoon. I did apologise first! I’ve removed some of the dust that was happily sitting on shelves in my lounge. We had become like old friends sharing the pandemic together. Now, it’s gone?

Have I made my call today? No, one of my list phoned me instead. See, how it works. You start something and others follow. The old saying? Peeps are like sheep. Sorry, M. Think I may have just lost my number one fan but thanks for the call. 

5.20 pm and I’m still waiting. Will he deliver today? 

Well, it’s a Bank holiday and I give myself a little treat. Roast dinner. So off to put the Bernard Matthews turkey and trimmings in the oven. The wine is already in the fridge!

No, he did not deliver but I’ve had a great dinner and watching the box. Maybe, it would be more exciting if I turned it on! Film The Madness of King George. Later, Killing Eve. Bye peeps. See you, tomorrow when we will share another Groundhog Day!

Day 63, Bank Holiday Monday.

Beginning the tenth week of lockdown.

Sunshine. Normally, we would all be outside in throngs enjoying our glorious weather. Let’s hope peeps have had social distancing imprinted on their brains or we’re gonna be in trouble. Just been listening to Simon Calder, travel expert. June hols abroad? Forget it! Our quarantine rules start on June 8^th. Maybe, we can have staycations from July. We wait for government guidance on this one. There’s talk of air bridges soon, where countries have “bridges” with reciprocal countries who are equally low risk. As the UK has a high number of cases, and the highest number of deaths in Europe, plus we are out of the EU, do not think we are likely to be invited anywhere in Europe anytime soon. We have become a joke over our stupidity on this one. It’s like we are lepers or have the dreaded lurgy. Our “former” friends, Greece, and Cyprus, who took early action are now in celebratory mood, while being amused at our stupidity. 

Okay, what’s my temperature, how am I going to spend today, and will he deliver?

35.7C. The rest. Let’s wait and see.

2.08 pm. I’m ecstatic. He’s delivered. I’ve enjoyed. It’s a beautiful day. Quite a few, in the street, came out for an ice cream. Normality. Also, phoned my chosen lucky person. The lunch time news was all about, guess who…Dominic Cummings. There’s annoyance from many peeps who have obeyed the rules, stayed at home missing final goodbyes, funerals and have yearned just to cross the road and hug their family members. One rule for the politicians and another for the rest of us.

Next? I’m gonna potter outside and remove a few naughty weeds from the garden. Shall I apologise first like I did to the dust yesterday? No, anyone hearing me may question my sanity. My defence would be that I’m an author. On FB I asked the question of other authors, did they feel that they did not think like other people. One reply was from a psychiatrist who described authors as schizophrenics who did not need meds because they knew the difference between reality and illusion. That’s me, folks. Take it or leave it.

4.15. In my library looking at the outside view. Gobsmacked. It’s looking normal. Numerous cars parked and peeps gone over to the park. I’ll bet they’re not practicing social distancing. Many riding rounds on bikes. Loads of peeps strolling around. Not one person wearing a mask. We are going to pay for this big time.

The update is on and monopolised by Dominic Cummings. He is giving a statement telling the entire world about his recent actions and decisions relating to the fact that his wife took ill. His reasoning and intuition regarding his drive to Durham. He did not think that he had broken any rules because of the allowances for “exceptional circumstances” regarding small children and childcare. If both he and his wife took ill who would look after their child? His only option, he thought, was to drive to his family home. He did not stop on the way. He has not been in contact with anyone else. His son took ill, needed hospital treatment, while in Durham. He was also ill while there. Although he has not been tested for Coronavirus, so we don’t know if any of them have had it or not. He did go for a drive, but that was only to see if he was safe and fit to drive back to London; he wanted to get back to work. He did stop by the river, but he did not come into contact with anyone. Peeps, that’s the essence of his lengthy, I’d say about twenty minutes statement.

Reporters are asking questions. Talking about ordinary people who were unable to get help for serious things like cancer; unable to visit relatives who contracted Covid 19 and lived only a few miles away from them; unable to go to funerals of loved ones. They obeyed the rules. Why should he be allowed to do this? Why didn’t he ask the PM first? The PM was already in isolation. There is demand for Mr Cummings’ resignation. I’ve also seen an online petition calling for our PM’s resignation. My question, how did he get the job in the first place? The point has been made several times that Mr Cummings drove along way from his London home when everyone else was in lockdown and not allowed to drive any distance. The message was clear, “Stay home”. Mr C. is desperately pleading extenuating circumstances, and because of these, he acted accordingly and within the rules. He is giving dates for everything he did. He has clearly anticipated all the difficult questions and coming up with carefully crafted answers. Why didn’t his wife drive back to London? Why didn’t he have a driver collect them? Scores of questions. The whole episode lasted for an hour. He still had no intentions of resigning. He has not broken the rules! Well, clearly a politician!

6.00pm Monday is bin time. Yes, I tootle outside with my bins and chat with my neighbour. It was warm, sunny and a glorious evening. The type of evening that makes you happy to be alive. Next, a turkey dinner, vino while watching Downton followed by soaps. Great Groundhog Day!

 Until next week stay safe everyone. Love Lady M xxxxx🌈🍷🌈🕯🌈

                                  

Lockdown 9

Hello Everyone,

Here we are in the ninth week of Lockdown in the UK. Some countries are ahead of us, some behind us. Almost all of the 213 countries, that have declared cases, sadly have to announce some deaths. As I write this, the update is on the television, and despite our case number going down, we still have 35,704 deaths. We are second only to USA. Over 35,000 families here who have lost someone they love to this virus. In the USA, the figure is 92,333. Alarming. My sympathy goes out to all families who have suffered as a result of this pandemic. The total global death figure at the moment is 324,240. Just how high will it go?

I've posted two pics from the archives today. Afternoon tea poster at Langley library, and the Odeon Cinema locally. These were  two places I visited weekly in the pre-Coronavirus days. Memories. I, last visited them both in March, two months ago, but it seems like a decade since normality. I've posted them because I feel we have to hold on to our memories as we look forward with hope of better days in the future. 

I have been sharing some of my daily logs with you through this distressing time. This week, I am going to share last weekend's postings. Please enjoy.

Day 54, Saturday, 16^th May. Half-way through another decade!


 Another weekend has arrived although the meaning is not the same as it used to be, is it? It was a kind of reward for having worked a week; a time to let your hair down, relax, have a drink, go out, meet friends, and enjoy yourself. Mentally, prepare for the next challenging week of enterprise and slog which enabled you to earn a living, a comfortable lifestyle or survival. Thankful that you were not homeless, penniless, and destitute. Well, now we know that all that slog for dosh was a waste of time. Money is like magic beans. The Bank just manufactures it at will.

I have great news for you. This morning I received my new toy, a thermometer. Yea. I wonder if I could get into the Guinness Book of Records for taking my temperature the greatest number of times in a day. It’s digital, like most things these days, and beeps, but great fun. I do not have a high temperature or fever. Interesting that I’ve survived for years without a thermometer, but now, it’s like they’re fashionable, or the ‘must have’ gadget. Sold out in shops but available online.

It’s sunny but still chilly, I live in hopes of real warmth arriving soon. Although, the weather is causing panic at our tourist spots. They fear masses will visit them this weekend now that peeps can drive anywhere in England. There are signs up in places like the Lake District, saying it’s closed to tourists, and go home. Normally, they welcome visitors as it’s their main source of income. Someone was on the box last night pointing out that everywhere was closed, cafes, restaurants, shops, hotels, attractions, museums, and toilets. Don’t come!

What am I going to do today? I’m pleased to say that I’ve completed all the tasks I intended doing this week so that’s something to be pleased about. Now, I’m enjoying the Andrew Lloyd Webber free download of "Cats". It’s 12.20 and I’m on my second cuppa. The rest of the day? Potter. Be happy. Take my temperature. Play. BBL

Hey, peeps, I don’t believe it. It has happened. I almost missed it. I was busy working at the front of my mansion, oblivious to what was happening at the back. I heard a knock at the door, rare these days. I looked down from the upper rooms, and thought I was hallucinating. It was a mirage. It must be. It’s been so long. I never thought it would happen again. My neighbour, and friend, Candice, was standing on the step with an ice cream. So pleased she did not have phone to capture my expression. I rushed downstairs, and opened the door. “Has he been?” “He’s there now,” she replied. “What?” as my eyes popped out of my head, I’m salivating just looking at that delicious ‘99’ with chocolate sauce. Social distancing? Hell, who cares? Grab the ice cream. Say thank you. Don’t know. Too much shock, and excitement. Inside. Through to the kitchen. Look through back window. Yes, he’s there. My darling, Antonio’s little ice cream van, parked by my back gate. Why is he allowed to come round during this time? No idea? Do I care? Nope. Thinking back about two weeks at the Oldbury Retail Park I did notice the burger van was open and peeps were buying them. They were queueing to get into shops at a safe distance but happy to walk right up to a burger van and have a burger, chips, whatever handed to them. Logic during this pandemic? Non-existent. From now on, I’ll collect my £1 coins and I’ll be ready for Antonio. What lessons have been learned from this experience? Do not play music while working you never know what you might miss. And, always keep on good terms with the neighbours!

Talking of neighbours. My neighbour of two doors down on Treddles Lane, the one who painted his back wall white a while back, is now turning the front area of his house into a parking space for one of his vehicles. Ah, memories. When I first came to this property, almost forty years ago, all three of the houses on this lane, (Yes, there are only three) had beautiful front gardens as expected for mid-1930 properties. Over the years I have seen those beautiful gardens disappear. I still have one, albeit, changed for easier maintenance, but I still have a lovely hydrangea, beautiful white daisies, blue and pink geraniums plus trees. The grass has gone, replaced with bark chipping making it easier to manage. Next door, one bush left, the rest… Now, two doors down what had been raised, and changed into slabs is at present a mess, while he’s taking it back down to ground level, removing a wall, and making a new parking area. A skip arrived a couple of days ago, and sits in front of the door. It’s the changing times, or the new normal, gardens disappear to be replaced by parking spaces and garages. Although, remember what I said a few days ago? We are all being encouraged to walk or cycle to work, we are not to use public transport for leisure. Will the car become redundant or at least we may return to one per household as opposed to one, per person? These are uncertain times.

Update time. The main topic. Children are due to return to school on June 1^s,t or two weeks’ time, providing five tests are met. Here we go again; those famous five tests. This applies to England only, not Scotland or Wales. Schools are preparing by moving classroom furniture around ensuring social distance is maintained. No more than fifteen in a class. Staggered entering, break, lunch, leaving times. Only Reception, Years 1, 6, 10, and 12 will be returning before September. These years have been chosen specifically because they are transitioning or pre-exam years. The Secretary for Education, Gavin Williamson, was at the helm at today’s briefing justifying his decision. We are following other countries in Europe, particularly Denmark. There were some interesting things which gave rise to comment. For example, children may take their own lunchboxes but not pencil cases. The reason? They are far more likely to share pencils than lunchboxes. The Government have conceded that the final decision, if the schools do reopen, will be that of the parents. They will decide whether they are happy with heir children returning to the classroom.

Just looking at pics. Yes, many peeps have hit the beaches and tourist spots despite the warnings. Also, the figures for today are 468 deaths making the UK total deaths, 34,466. Second only to the USA. Apparently, the ‘R’ figure is still under 1 but only just. I cannot see how places can reopen, and not give rise to a second wave of Covid 19. Looking at those pics again; there’s a kind of ignorance to the disaster. Peeps are thoroughly lackadaisical. There’s a protest in Hyde Park against lockdown. Someone has a poster saying “No” to the new abnormal, forced vaccines, being trapped and chipped, being controlled by fear. “Yes” to Life and Freedom. Are these peeps living in cloud cuckoo land? Are they on a different planet from me? I know I say these figures are fiction but Covid 19 is real.

Okay, downstairs. Time for fodder… sweet and sour, I think. Am I going to cook from scratch. Don’t be silly, it’s a meal for one from a famous supermarket. Has anyone else noticed that these meals are decreasing in size? It’s been gradual over the last few years. I microwave it, and then plate it. There used to be a plate full of food. Now, it’s only about half full. So, you nibble at other things because the meal still leaves hunger pangs. Each time the plastic container changes it’s because the size is slightly smaller. Keep your eyes peeled.


Later, tv, games and bed. One more Groundhog Day down!


Day 55, Sunday. Special Day

I’m downstairs, with my candle burning, watching the morning service. Today, it’s the Sixth Sunday of Easter and the service is coming from St David’s Cathedral in Pembrokeshire. Brought to us from Wales. Guess, if we can’t go there, it can come to us.

I sang along to two of my fav hymns, "Dear Lord and Father of Mankind" and "How Great Thou Art." It sent me down memory lane to my early childhood days at Syerston, a small Nottinghamshire village. The Norman Church was a centre point in the village, and the vicar took afternoon services, as he was also the rector for other churches. I recall walking up the lane, with little teddy in hand, Mum and Dad on either side of me. We joined the other villagers for those services. We sat together in one pew, I think it was the fourth from the altar and in front of the pulpit. I recall singing my heart out. Such happy memories of my early days, and learning that Sunday was special. I still visit that church, roughly once a year, to clean my sister’s gravestone. And that will be my final resting place, I have left instructions for my ashes to be interred in that grave. I’ve been talking a lot about things going full circle, or back to the past. I guess my life will be like that. I will return to where I spent my early days.

 Nostalgia! Back to the present and work before Songs of Praise. BBL

Taken my temperature. 35.7C. I’m alive and it’s normal. I think I’m like that ‘R’ thing which has to be below 1. It goes up and down from .5-.9, if you believe the figures. Downstairs again, waiting for "Songs of Praise", wondering will my darling Antonio return, and park by my gate again? I’ll be listening today, ready and waiting, coins by the kitchen door.

Aled Jones is introducing "Songs of Praise".  Bye for now.

Hey, was watering the plants when I heard it. No, not the nightingale in Berkeley Square or the cuckoo but those melodic tones heralding my darling, Antonio. Yes, summer is here. All is normal. I grabbed my coins and rushed out. Almost normal. He was wearing mask and gloves. Sad reminder of the times. Such a tonic to hear him again. Oh, the ice cream was good as well!

8.30 pm. The rest of my day. Boring really. So, yes, today I am a boring person. I tackled the mountain of ironing; it doesn’t get much more boring than that does it? Made a phone call. Watched the box and played games. Looked at the washing up and thought, nah! One boring job a day is enough. Had pizza for dinner. About to watch "Killing Eve". Then, I shall retire and prepare mentally for another Groundhog Day, and the beginning of another week in this decade they call "May".

So goodnight. Oh, yes, I’ll take my temperature again just for fun.


Be safe, Lady M ❤❤❤❤

                                                               

Lockdown 8

A holiday memory from Malta

Hello Everyone,

This is week 8 of lockdown and peeps in England have been praised for being good citizens, and obeying the new Stay Home rules. Now, our lockdown has been eased. Stay Home has changed to Stay Alert.  We may drive anywhere in England, but not Wales or Scotland. We may put our homes on the market, and invite strangers in, but we are not allowed to have our friends and relatives round. If we can work from home we should, if not we should be back at work but not using public transport. Oh, and we are now allowed to visit garden centres; they have reopened. Wait for it... we may play tennis, and golf, or go fishing. Confused at the dichotomies? So are we plus there is fear. Fear of putting ourselves at risk, and fear of a second wave because restrictions have been eased too soon.

This week I would like to share my log from the weekend. Please enjoy, even if it leaves you confused.

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Day 47,  May 9^th, back to Groundhog Days.

It’s 11.30 on a Saturday morning. I’m here with my second cuppa. I’ve had breakfast while watching the Kathryn Jenkins’ concert at The Royal Albert Hall on YouTube. One of her words to describe it was “surreal”. Apparently, there was a proper concert planned for VE Day evening but it has been postponed until September. It was an enjoyable half hour concert with some musicians for accompaniment. Kathryn, a true professional, did not let the lonely, empty, deserted, eerie venue affect her performance. She sang the old favourite war time songs, “We’ll meet again”, “A Nightingale sang in Berkeley Square”, “The white Cliffs of Dover”, a few others, and the one associated with this pandemic, “Somewhere over the Rainbow”. When historians look back at this time they will see the hope and positivity shown in the symbolic rainbow. Pretty rainbows, many painted by children, are everywhere.

What am I going to do today? It’s a sunny day, so I’ll miss Antonio! I have to make do with ice cream from the freezer. Not as exciting but…

I shall potter in the garden, carry on with my editing and writing, play games, make my phone call and…

BBL

I’m watching “Britain’s got Talent” and have to admit that I am thoroughly embarrassed by the first act. It’s a group of children, “The D-Day Juniors”, inspired by the “D-Day Darlings”. These children show such respect for the war veterans, and those who did not return, but made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. They want to make sure future generations are aware of what that generation did for them. Their act was a song, Pass it On. Such maturity. Why am I embarrassed? Because I remember the fifties, those post war years of austerity, and then the swinging sixties, with the main slogan, you’ve never had it so good. We had not, and that was when we forgot, or  ignored, all  that had been done for us, The war was over, and forgotten. We paid it a kind of mock homage on November 11^th, annually, and that was a bit of an effort. There’s an old adage, “Don’t teach your Grandmother to suck eggs”. Meaning you should not give advice to those who have more experience, and knowledge, than you. Generally, thought that older people are wiser than younger ones, and youth should learn from age; from wisdom gathered over the years. Those children show so much more respect, and wisdom, than I ever did at their age. I’m so pleased that things are back to how they should be. I guess it’s a case of “out of the mouths of babes and suckling”. Thank you to today’s generation for putting things right.

This afternoon I listened to the usual update. It was one of those times in life when I could not believe what I was hearing. From the end of this month all peeps entering UK airports will be quarantined for 14 days. Isn’t that shutting the stable door after the horse has bolted? Other countries put quarantine into operation at the beginning of the outbreak in an attempt to contain it. There will be exceptions. Why? Does it apply to ferries? Apparently, unknown to us, there was quarantine in February for certain sectors entering our country. 


Thinking ahead on this one, if you’ve a summer hols booked, and still optimistic of escaping abroad in July, August or September. Think again. This is obviously another setback for our aviation industry who are already teetering on the edge of both despair and destruction. Let’s say there is a plane going to where you want to go in August. First, there’s the new screening hassle at the airport. Next, anxiety on the plane. Is it safe, or is someone unknowingly, maybe even you, carrying the disease? Finally, you reach your destination, how are you going to be received? After, going through another screening and border control what will greet you beyond? Unhappy locals? Are you bringing them the virus? If you’re in a hotel or eating in restaurants, (if they are open) will you still be practising social distancing? Then, when it’s time to come home, will there be a plane or will it be another case of borders closed, and flights cancelled in that week or two while you’ve been on a “holiday”? Okay, you get through the screening, onto the plane, and eventually land back in the U.K. only to be whisked into quarantine. Or possibly, confined to your home for two weeks.

Easier option, this summer. Visit our coastal resorts for a week or two, again as we did in the fifties and sixties, but will you be any safer? Social distancing? Many places closed. Guess, it means forget all hols for the foreseeable. When we are allowed freedom again, will that industry have survived?

Further listening, and I’m thinking, another backward step. We should all be walking or cycling to work, thus avoiding public transport, (public transport cannot cope with the numbers who would normally travel due to social distancing), and taking exercise at the same time. Escooters are going to be trialed now as opposed to next year. A century ago peeps lived near or where they worked. Then, a new affluent society emerged, and the arrival of the suburbs. Peeps were looking to move out of towns, and cities, to a more rural environment, and a better life, away from work and the commuter was born. The new “must have” was a vehicle. Most homes had one car. Now, each member of the family needs a car. It’s looking like the car is becoming redundant, and peeps are going to be living nearer their work again, if they can find work. The wheel has gone full circle. Peeps are being taught a lesson.

Those five tests for easing of restrictions are being mentioned again. Tomorrow evening, at 7.00 pm Boris will be giving us another message on how things are moving. We’re to be told to “stay alert” as opposed to “stay at home”. There’s evidence from other countries, who have eased restrictions, that cases have risen again and fear of a second wave. It’s not looking good is it?

Another sad note in the news. The adorable Little Richard, has died at the age of 87. For youngsters, who have no idea who I’m talking about, he was the founding father of Rock and Roll.

Time to say goodnight, be safe, see you tomorrow. As Colonel Tom says, “tomorrow will be a good day”.




Day 48, Sunday, May 10^th. Groundhog Day? Who’s counting?

Good morning all. Our sunny days have left us, temporarily I hope. Think the heating will be back on today. It’s Sunday, again, the special day of the week. I’m here with breakfast while watching, what is now the norm, a surreal morning service. It’s the Bishop of Dover, the Rt Rev Rose Hudson-Wilkin, in Hereford  Cathedral. Rather a long way from Dover to Hereford isn’t it? It’s followed by a new programme of Sunday Morning Stories. Yes, Sunday is slowly getting back to the way it used to be. Second cuppa time.

Back to work until “Songs of Praise”.


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Until next week, wherever you are in the world stay safe. 212 countries now have the virus and you probably dwell in one of them. Be happy, smile and the world will feel a better place.


Love to all, Lady M xxxxx

                                                      

Lockdown 7

A memory! Afternoon tea at the Tower Ballroom, Blackpool

Hello Everyone,

Today should have been one of celebration, and commemoration as the 75th anniversary of VE Day. Alas, all social events have been cancelled. There are some events on social media, and television. Katherine Jenkins is performing in a solo concert at the Royal Albert Hall to an audience of nil! To all veterans of that war, those who gave their lives, and those who are still with us, and endure the memories, I salute you, and offer you my undying gratitude. Colonel Tom, you are a representative and fine example of those stalwart men of your time prepared to pay the ultimate price for the rest of us. You continue to inspire us. Rock on, Colonel Tom!

We are in our seventh week of lockdown. Above, I've posted a memory. One day, we will be able to do such things again. Enjoy eating out and other experiences. For now, what we have are our memories and we need to treasure them and the time we have with our families. 

Here, in the UK, we are told there maybe some easing of restrictions next week. We live in hopes as we see other countries slowly coming out of lockdown.

This week, I would like to share my daily log from last Saturday. Please enjoy it.

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Day, whatever oh, 40. Saturday!

The sun has returned from its sojourn and now I’m dreaming of who else would normally visit later today. Who am I missing? You’ve guessed. My darling Antonio, his melodic tones as he comes round the corner to my back gate, parks; waits for me, and my neighbours, to rush out. I would grab my two £1 coins from the stash by the kitchen door, and zoom out there for my “99”. Memories.

It’s also the first weekend in May, and traditionally a Bank Holiday weekend with fun, activities, holidays, happiness, traffic jams, airport queues. Oh dear. Me thinks I’m dreaming. Business companies instead of raking in profits, particularly the hospitality industry, hotels, entertainment, restaurants, and aviation are looking at losses and wondering how much longer they can survive. We heard of Ryanair’s plight yesterday. I’m sure we’ll hear of more in the next days.

What makes this disaster even worse is the fact that on May 8^th it is 75 years since VE Day. That is Victory over Europe and the end of World War 2 although in the Far East victory was slightly later August 15^th, VJ Day, Victory over Japan. This year our Bank Holiday was planned for next Friday, 8^th and that weekend. Unfortunately, no one had thought to tell the calendar peeps, and I noticed my calendars still have Monday as a Bank Hols. There are few veterans left from that era, stalwart men like Colonel Tom. Wonder how he is doing today? There were plans to commemorate that day and show respect and honour to those remaining few. I think our Queen will make a speech and probably Boris, who has decided not to take paternity leave at present. Maybe, a few other things will be seen in the media and on the box, but all social activities have been cancelled. Such a shame that those who suffered so much during that time are being deprived of a commemoration. Or perhaps they would rather not have it as a special occasion, from what they say the horrors of that experience live with them everyday. PTSD did not exist in the 1940’s. Those heroes returned from the front to normal lives and got on with it. I am thinking out of the box now, perhaps if possible, some of those events planned for next Friday could still take place on August 15^th VJ Day?

I am also thinking of a television programme I watched a couple of days ago. It was a project to transform a whole street into accommodation for todays veteran soldiers returning from tours of duty in such places as Afghanistan and Iraq, and suffering from various physical, and mental issues because of their experiences. They had looked for volunteers with essential expertise, and were rather short in number. The host commented, who would want to give up their hols for such a working project. One man answered, and I paraphrase, “after all they have done for us, our safety, our country and the horrors they have been through this is the least I can do for them. I’m just giving up my holiday and feel honoured to be able to give something back.” Well, it was something like that. It left the host feeling emotional, me too!

So, what are my highlights for today? The Andrew Lloyd Webber Royal Albert Hall Celebration, and my phone call.

Second cuppa time, and let the show begin. Back later.

Hey, I’m back and it’s almost 4.00. Update time. A cyclist has just passed by my window wearing a mask. There are rumours that we are all going to have to wear some form of facial covering soon. There is also talk of schools being opened in phases. Yesterday, a wise person asked if after this, parents would still be fined for taking children out of school during term time. There was no definite reply. Yes, folks, in the UK to crack down on truancy and emphasise the importance of education a law was passed which gave fines for parents who removed their children from education during term sessions.

There’s further talk of some relaxation of restrictions at the end of next week or May 7^th, the date given for a review of the situation. Many businesses are preparing in hope. Leisure centres and gyms are moving their equipment to allow social distancing.

What have I done this afternoon? Enjoyed the music. So relaxing. Now, I am going to give you a treat. Just a minute. Behind me I am hearing loads of figures from someone named the Communities Secretary, don’t recognise the face. More testing. More cases. Figures. Just numbers but there’s emphasis on the fact that we have passed the peak. Now, we are getting a thank you for helping to turn the tide by staying at home and obeying the new rules. Alas, there are others who have suffered… domestic violence figures have risen. This is a serious problem. We must defend the rights of those women and children who are suffering. There’s a new domestic abuse bill going through parliament. Only forty years too late for me. Ah, there’s more money being found from nowhere to support this area of society through the pandemic. £76,000,000. Where did that figure come from? There is support. You should not stay at home if you are in danger. Call 999. There is safe accommodation available.

Just checking the figures. We are still in fourth position but with 182,000+ cases, 28,000+ deaths, and 4,000+ new cases. These deaths and new cases far exceed Spain and Italy’s figures. How can this dire situation be getting better?

Oh dear. What did I say about businesses in trouble? Rolls Royce have just announced job losses. This is a knock on effect from the aviation industry who are not placing orders because most planes are grounded and their future is uncertain. Well, you learn something new everyday. I thought they only made posh cars! They manufacture engines for planes.

Now, my treat. I told you earlier this week that I was pleased with my cameo role in the sequel to my novel. “The Singing Horses” was written because of a contest where authors submitted manuscripts in the hope of winning a publishing contract. It was on Facebook and a page was opened for us to chat with each other. I felt as if we were horses in a paddock waiting for the race to start and then we could start getting votes for our work. Many joined in with this idea and decided to take a stall number (I’m #5) and a horse identity; a new story developed. I did bulletins on FB throughout the four months of this contest. We, as horses, went round the world, having many adventures and singing as we neighed for votes. When it was all over, we didn’t want to leave our lovely paddock and stalls, so we had a “neigh-in”. We were going to stay forever. Alas, our lovely paddock was sold, and we spent some horse time in a luxury stable in Los Angeles while our new home in Oklahoma was being built. This book is with publishers, and I hope will be available before I die. Positivity and enthusiasm led me to write the sequel, “The Singing Horses go to Oklahoma”. Whether, it will ever see the light of day remains to be seen. But for now, I would like to share the following extract with you. The talented equine have been neighed that their new home is ready, and before they leave their host, Sire Percival, (Papa 2) has organised a Skype session with all of the friends they made on that first epic ride… Skippy and the kangaroos, Nellie and her elephant herd, camels, horses and several others. There is one last surprise for them… Me!

                                    
“Papa 2 neighed, “I have a surprise for you. There’s one more Skype session to come.” They all looked puzzled and perplexed. Who was missing from their lengthy list of friends? A female human appeared on the screen. “Who’s that?” they neighed. “She is your creator and has agreed to listen to your neighs and answer any questions.” Slowly, it was dawning on them that this human was none other than Marilyn L. Rice, the woman who had put them all through so many dramas.

#11 was the first to recover from the shock. He rose to his hooves, “Neigh, dame. On behalf of all of us I would like to neigh our thanks for creating us, bringing us together and making us into the celebrities. We are an élite band and are truly grateful for all that you have done for us. Three neighs for our creator.” He raised his glass and the others followed suit. They gave her the customary three neighs and a hoof clap.

 She smiled before saying, “neigh, thank you. It has been an honour and privilege to ride along with you. I’d like to thank Papa 2 for giving me this opportunity to speak or neigh with you. So, do you have any questions for me?”

#7 was the first to neigh, “Why did you let me get foalnapped? I’ve suffered from PDSD ever since.” She laughed and replied, “Neigh. It was your love of chips that got you into trouble. You followed those chips into that house in New Orleans. I create characters. They are then left to their own devices.” So, it was all his own fault after all.

#5 was next, “Why am I always having “bad mane days” and why did you let that #44 take my lovely stallion #6?” This caused fits of laughter and giggles from the creator. “Your “bad mane days” correspond with my bad mood days and it’s such fun to take it out on you. As for #6’s relationship with #44; they are both mature equine and make their own choices.” #5 was not amused.

#23 was next, “I hate getting up early so why do I have to practice every horse morning?” The reply, “You chose to be a ballerina.” #23 looked pensive, “Did I?” A stunned silence prevailed.

Then #55 rose to her hooves, “I, personally, would like to thank you for giving me this beautiful life. I love being posh and I have the bestest of papa’s and a lovely little bro. So, thank you.”

#44 followed her lead, “Yes, thank you for giving me an aristocratic lifestyle. One is very pleased with one’s life.”

Suddenly, jealousy seemed to break out. The others were wondering why they could not have had easier life. #51 groaned, “Why did you give me the onerous task of having to take the “easy” degree. It was a nightwoman. Why couldn’t I have an easier life?” #12 followed her lead, “Why did I have to be paper mare? I would rather have had a more glamorous job.”

The stallions remained neighless. Their creator just sat back in her luxurious chair and laughed. “You are all so funny, but you gel together with your various tasks and characters. Anyway, one of my neighs is that the past determines the present and the future. Your past experiences have placed you where you are today and you’ve been really happy together in this massive stable, haven’t you?”

Well, they could not disagree with that.

“Now to the future. I’ve had a beautiful new massive stable built for you. You will have a great ride back along Route 66 and love your new home. I’ve lots of fun, happiness and adventures lined up for you all. So, pack your saddlebags, get ready to rock and roll and enjoy the good times ahead.”  She waved before disappearing.

“#64 was the first to neigh, “Well, that was unexpected.”

“Did you like it?” Papa 2 neighed.

There was much thought before their glum, perplexed visages changed to radiant happiness and a chorus of neighing, “Yes, great, fantastic, brill. Never thought she’d look like that. She’s not bad for her age.” #5 put an end to the neighing by indicating it was fodder time and they only had a few horse hours left before they would be moving on to the new experiences their creator had neighed about.”

Well, did you enjoy that? Did you even understand it? Never mind. It’s passed a few minutes of time during lockdown. Guess, I should say “watch this space.”

Wow! Latest news. Even though we were told our PM was in good spirits while in hospital it has just been announced that there was a time when they were preparing a statement announcing his death. It was “touch and go”. No wonder he has such praise for our NHS. He is so grateful that he and his fiancée, Carrie have named their son, Wilfred Lawrie Nicholas. Nicholas after the two doctors, Dr Nick Price and Dr Nick Hart who saved his life last month.

For the rest of today? A chicken dinner, a bit of television and a nice relaxing bubble bath.

Tomorrow… see you then. Stay safe and be happy.

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Lady M xxxxx