Day 4 of ‘Lockdown Number 2’

Remembrance Sunday. A day when we would normally stand, with many others, to be grateful for the ultimate sacrifice our forbears made for a free society. I did stand, and I did remember them – but not with others, of course. I was on my own in the lounge.

And, to be honest, it felt more poignant today than ever. Perhaps it’s because we are more aware of how the world lives, in our own country and abroad, with newscasters streaming scenes from far-off places in ‘live’ newsfeeds on our TV screens. Perhaps it’s because we are aware of the acute differences in society and the tribalism that leads to war. Those uber-egos, coupled with perceived rights, which forget the cohesiveness of humanity and strength in togetherness. Kindness. Humility. Sharing. Qualities that many have, but seemingly not enough among those in leadership roles, just now.

But today is another day and a new dawn, so we can hold on to the hope that there will be peace, and not strife, for our future generations. Conflict? No thanks. Give me harmony any day.

In terms of harmony, I bring your attention to my current project. More painting today, harmonising the ceiling, the wall and the skirting board to the bookcase I finished the other day. And, I have to say, I think it looks okay. I am quite pleased with it so far. Next step: paint another bookcase the same colour to match. Then perhaps paint the chest of drawers. I have a lot to do.

I did find time to pop round to Mum’s today though – the first time in about ten days. Strictly speaking, I suppose, we have formed a bubble with Mum this time around since we’re not allowed to meet the kids and their families, and I do need to call on her to drop shopping or washing in. But equally, I am a reluctant visitor because she has carers in three times a day who could be bringing anything in with them. I am still paranoid that I’ll take the bug back to John……

She was well, however, if very forgetful. I was only there about an hour and a half, and she must have said at least half a dozen times, “Oooh, it’s getting dark early today, isn’t it?” I nodded in agreement every time. Bless her.

I was able to share with her all the photos that have been sent through of the family in the last couple of weeks and she absolutely loved that. “What a good-looking boy, isn’t he? Freddie?” Yes, Mum. “Ahhh, look isn’t he a good-looking boy? William?” Yes, Mum. “Oh, look, isn’t he a handsome chappie? What’s his name?” This one is Thomas. Oh, yes. “And this one? “That’s Alexander” Ah. I think the babies were interchangeable in her mind. But she was thrilled to see all the family, including a fabulous photo of Graham and Gail in Oz. And she laughed out loud at the picture of us all on the one WhatsApp screen, when we chatted altogether the other night.

John, in the meantime, spent time in the garage. Mostly, I think, still tidying up and trying to sort it so that tools are to hand, so to speak. We are so very messy. I think I have managed to paint more of myself and surrounding areas than the items I was actually supposed to be painting today. And John manages to put tools down and then be unable to find them. “But I put it down just there” is a frequent cry as we search and search for stuff. Well, to be honest, that’s the same for me too…… now, where did I put that dratted screwdriver?

In terms of the virus, it’s a weekend, so one never knows the accuracy of the figures, but they were down – 20,572 people having been confirmed as infected today; 156 having died in the community and 98 in hospitals on 6 & 7 November.

Hoping you all have a very good week ahead, whatever you are doing. Peace be with you and all those you love. Pass it on.