Things Are Getting Better! . . .Or Are They?

Thursday. 11.20 a.m. It's quite bright and sunny, but not particularly warm.

I've been doing a bit more writing. I have a good idea where it will finish, but not how it will begin, which is often the case with writing. It's a bit like a journey, you know where you want to end up, but not where to start. In fact, a story is fairly well as a journey of some sort. During the journey, you have a sequence of highs and lows, good and bad. You keep on the straight and narrow but then get diverted, get lost in an unknown place but end up at your destination and you have learned something along the way. By the end of the journey, you should have changed.

I decided to download the National Lottery app recently. I haven't played the Lottery for years, but I thought I would have a go. If you have the app you can play without having to go to a shop to buy a ticket. You pick your numbers on the app and pay using your debit card. I have played twice now. But this morning I got a call claiming to be from the National Lottery. I'm pretty sure it was genuine, but with the number of spam calls I get, I was somewhat wary. I was going to be given several free lines in the Lottery but for £12 a week I could have a syndicate and have perhaps a thousand lines, each for about 5p each. It sounded too good to be true and it could have been a scam. I was assured that it wasn't and I was virtually talked into setting this up with my debit card. I decided at the last minute that I didn't go ahead with it. It would have been around £50 a month, which is a lot on my pension, and for that, I could buy food for a week or more in Aldi or Lidl. I didn't like the somewhat aggressive approach to selling this. I managed to avoid it but someone else, perhaps with Alzheimer's or with a learning disability might have gone ahead with it and caused them financial hardship. I'm sure it was genuine, but, as I say, it was a hard sell.

Boris Johnson says that there's nothing in the data to suggest that further lockdown restrictions won't be lifted on 21st June, but scientists are saying that we have to be cautious. The infamous Indian variant is playing centre stage and making a bit of an act out of it and wants full parity with Equity members and full pay and overtime. We will have to wait and see what happens. If it doesn't get what it wants it will go on the rampage and have a hissy fit and might take to the bottle and spent the night in a drunken stupor and fall into the gutter outside a nightclub and get caught on camera by the press and land up plastered all over the tabloid press, ending up being interviewed on breakfast television and selling its story to the Sunday papers.

Friday. 5 a.m. Not much to report. I can't hear wind or rain, so I presume it's still and calm outside. Alfie has crept into my bed. Making himself very comfortable, which I don't blame him!

Later. You may recall I mentioned I had trouble buying pooh bags so I could clean up after Alfie. I always do, regardless I just think if you have a dog you are responsible for it, even down to cleaning up the mess when this happens in a public space. There are obviously quite a few people who just couldn't care less and don't do the right thing. It's not the dog's fault. It's a pity these people don't get caught and fined. There used to be bags above the bins which are dotted around, not unfortunately not anymore. I expect the Council needed to cut down on such items, but in all honesty, dog owners should buy their own and carry them when they take their dogs out. I always keep a bundle in my packet and they don't cost a great deal. I did mention that I couldn't find them in Sainsbury's over the past few weeks, which is why I went to Morrisons to buy some a few Sundays ago. I noticed they had them in Sainsbury's this morning when I was in there, but not the type I usually buy. They have been replaced by thinner, biodegradable ones. I think I've worked out why. No doubt it's Sainsbury's attempting to get rid of plastic. I don't think the original type was biodegradable, which makes sense. They more or less got rid of plastic carrier bags, and if you need them you have to pay 5p-10p, which goes to charity. I always take my own 'bags for life,' but I have discovered that actually, some of these reusable bags have more plastic in them than the traditional plastic bags. Which is somewhat crazy. But regardless of that, I have plenty, bought over the years, which are still going strong and have done goodness knows how many shopping trips. I bought a bag in Aldi the other week, which can be folded into a tiny little bag which means it takes up very little space and can be put in a pocket for when you go shopping and is therefore readily available to put things in when you are out and about.

Later. 9.30. I have been out this evening! I can't remember when I last went out in the evening. Carol and I used to go out for a drive, usually to Woburn and go through the deer park, but then we weren't out for long and it was a way for her to destress if she had had a difficult day at work at Milton Keynes Academy, which was quite often. Probably something to do with a member of staff, sorting out someone else's mess. This evening a group from church met at my friend Margaret and Mike's home in Downhead Park. They have been really good friends and support to me since Carol's death. We walked along the canal, down one side and back on the other. Observing the wildlife, in particular a family of geese and another of swans and ducks.

I drive home and walk back inside the flat, to be greeted by a very happy Alfie who goes slightly bonkers, playing with his toys and throwing them around, shaking vigorously and wagging his tail excitedly. It's such a lovely welcome home! It makes having a little dog so worthwhile. It certainly lifts my spirits. Such a loving little dog.

'Cautiously Optimistic'

Wednesday. 6.25 a.m. 'Cautiously optimistic' was how Prime Minister Boris Johnson described how his infamous 'roadmap' out of lockdown which is supposed to be lifted on 21st June.  That is, unless there is a sudden rise in infections or something else to scupper the plans. He also said it about the Brexit deal that had been agreed with the EU. So, are we going to be celebrating our freedom from being bossed around? That is, if the by now more than a little bit famous Indian variant of the virus doesn't get a starring role over the next few weeks. 

Boris Johnson is a bit of what you'd describe as a 'loose cannon.' He is somewhat unpredictable and he doesn't work like any other Prime Minister I can think of.  The matter of making statements about letting dead bodies pile high rather than implementing lockdown, may or may not have been said by him. Also, the business around who paid for the alterations to his flat in 10 Downing Street, which  seems to have disappeared from being mentioned in the media, He gets away with all sorts of things that anyone else would be in court for. I see him as a combination of Winnie The Pooh, Bertie Wooster and Mr Toad, he of 'Wind In The Willows.'

As for the former political advisor to Number 10 Downing Street, Dominic Cummings, who has today been grilled by MPs in a Commons select committee about the Government's handling of the coronavirus pandemic, or perhaps that should be, lack of it. He was removed from his post in No 10 back in November and it seems he is attempting to stab people in the back in a sort act of revenge, worthy of something out of a Shakespeare tragedy, such as Othello, with Cummings in the role of Iago. He's definitely not the sort of person you'd want as a friend. As someone said, 'with friends like these, who needs enemies?" He's stuck the knife into several government personnel, not least saying that Boris Johnson wasn't fit for the position of Prime Minister. Well, someone also said that 'you get the politicians you deserve', and in some respects that's totally true. It was American President Thomas Jefferson who came out with that one.

Today would have been Carol and my 14th wedding anniversary. It's no good dwelling on things and she would expect me to get on with my life, which I am, except that it's all been cancelled due to the covid-19 coronavirus pandemic.

I was up and out before 6 o'clock with Alfie this morning. A bit overcast and it looked as if it might rain later, but one hopes not.

I have received a letter from the Nephrology department of  Milton Keynes Hospital. I have no idea what nephrology is, but never mind. I'm always keen to learn new words, so his is another to add to my growing collection.  It's regarding the 'incidental finding of a small renal angiomyolipoma' in one of my kidneys when they did the ultra scan. I have no idea what an angiomyolipoma is, but, having spoken to my doctor on the telephone recently, it isn't malignant, like a cancer. When I first heard about it I did panic, really as a response to not knowing clearly what it was, because of my memories of when Carol was first diagnosed with bowel cancer. The letter goes on to say that I should have an ultra scan done every 4-5 years just to keep watching it and seeing how it behaves. I shall be discussing this further when I speak to my doctor on the telephone on 11th June.

Sunny and Bright!

Monday. 6.25 a.m. Yet another bright and sunny morning, but still fairly chilly when I went out onto Strudwick Drive with Alfie just before 6 o'clock. I had my red Regatta fleece on because it wasn't warm enough without.

Spent some time putting writing into word processing. It is really boring, because the creative part has already been done. I've made a few adjustments to what I had already written, but the rest is as I originally wrote in pencil.

Excitement! I've cleaned the bathroom floor! Woopee! Just thought you'd like to know. 'Such fun!' as the mother of the Miranda Hart character says in the 'Miranda' sitcom on BBC television, played by Patricia Hodge.

It still appears to be bright and sunny, but rain is expected later.

Tuesday. 1.50 a.m. Not exactly sure what the weather is doing at the moment. I can't hear any wind howling outside, or rain on the windows. It's another case of waking up and not getting back to sleep. I read my daily devotional 'Bible In One Year with Nicky Gumble' which I have on the Bible app, You Version. I have been using this for a couple of years now. 

Later. 9.40 a.m. The weather is somewhat undecided. It was raining earlier but it is dry at the moment.

I have just returned from taking Alfie out. I have a fairly good idea when he needs to go out as he starts staring at me and sits on the sofa next to me with a very determined look on his face. The other night he came in to the bedroom and got on the bed and was shaking and looking quite odd. I didn't pick up on what he waned quickly enough and the poor little dog did a mess on the bathroom floor. Yesterday morning he was sick on the floor. Easily wiped up, but it's unusual for him to need emergency exit in the middle of the night.

We walked down Strudwick Drive as usual. As we approached the crossing onto Oldbrook Green I saw a youth walking a large tan-coloured dog in the direction of the skate park. Alfie was sniffing around as usual and I had intended to walk in the same direction as the youth with the dog. I didn't take much notice as Alfie did his pooh which I picked up with the boo bag and eventually put it in the bin just beyond the skate park. Then a man walked into the Green from the primary school crossing. with what looked like a black spaniel, but I couldn't see clearly from where I was at that distance. The youth let his dog off it's lead and it went for the little black dog. It looked quite severe and the owner of the black dog separated the two dogs and he appeared to tell of the youth because of the bigger dog's behaviour. The youth put his dog on it's lead and appeared to walk away and the man with the other dog walked off in the opposite direction, but then the youth let his dog off it's lead AGAIN, but it went to attack the other dog with a certain amount of viciousness and the little black spaniel made a horrible amount of noise. The separated the dogs again and AGAIN the youth got a telling off from the man with the black dog. It was at this point that I decided it wasn't safe to walk Alfie in that direction and anywhere near the big tan dog, so we walked back toward the crossing and back along Strudwick Drive. Looking back I could see the youth had picked up his dog to carry, but I don't think he could have carried it far because of it's size and wait. I think it was some sort of cross breed, probably had a bit of Alsation or Doberman Pincher in it's make-up, probably one of the larger breeds which are used as guard dogs or perhaps used by the services, the army or police force. Whatever it was, it should be muzzled in public when near other dogs. Also, not socialised when a puppy. 

Telly Watching- Part 3

Talking of television comedy as I was in the last 'Telly Watching' post, I should mention 'Inside No 9', an anthology comedy series which is what you might term 'black comedy.' It may not be everyone's cup of tea and some may not even describe it as comedy. The series is now in its sixth series and is created by and performed by the team behind 'The League of Gentlemen', Mark Gatiss, Steve Pemberton, and Reece Sheersmith. It's likely not to be to everybody's taste. The language is quite strong, but at least it's adult and some of the themes are quite controversial, so if you manage to see it (there are episodes on the BBC iPlayer.) you have been warned. I have only seen two episodes, so I can't comment on other episodes or earlier series. It has reached series 6, so there are plenty of episodes to choose from. The episode I watched the other day, called 'Simon Says' has similarities with the play and film 'Sleuth' which starred Michael Caine and Lawrence Olivier and based on the play by Anthony Shaffer and 'Misery' a story by Stephen King and made into a film and a stage play. Further to the similarities of other series, the most obvious must be 'Tales of The Unexpected', based on the short stories of Roald Dahl. Many of those stories have a twist that you don't always see coming. Then some themes crop up in the films of Alfred Hitchcock. Say no more. Just watch and then decide what you think. But considering the amount of dross that crosses our television screens, it's great to have something which is at least vaguely original and intriguing. I can hardly be described as 'Sitcom', but at least they're attempting to try different styles of comedy, although I don't think it's exactly 'laugh out loud comedy.

I have been watching the BBC Television adaptation of 'The Pursuit of Love, based on the novel by Nancy Mitford. I watched the first two episodes and enjoyed them. The production design, costumes and general look of the show is great and seems to have caught the feel of the period well. All the characters are well acted and presented, but this final episode just didn't hold my attention and I just lost interest. I think it's probably because I can't identify with these hedonistic, vacuous people. Self indulgent and empty. There's nothing likeable about any of them. Too much money, sex and drugs? Possibly. Just too self-obsessed. Just go and get a job. Mind you, it does make a change from murder and mayhem in so much of what passes for 'drama' in other productions. Too many television productions just seem to copy one another. Since the series 'Broadchurch', for example, other crime series have just copied the look and feel of that one show, characters shouting at one another, staring vacantly at nothing (in Broadchurch, which is set near the sea, there's a lot of scenes with characters staring at . . . the sea. 

Back on the subject of 'The Pursuit of Love', I'm drawn to the fact that it's structure and characters are similar to 'Brideshead Revisited.' Another set of selfish, moneyed, aristocratic characters that just complain about life, seem to do nothing and just moan on and on. Interesting in that it's exactly 40 years since the Granada production of this Evelyn Waugh novel. It was extremely lavish. It had eleven episodes and had an amazing cast, which included John Gielgud, Laurence Olivier, Diana Quick, Jeremy Irons and Anthony Andrews. But at least it had some redeeming features. The Charles Ryder character, played by Jeremy Irons, is an outsider and the one character you can at least identify with. I doubt that, with the current television landscape, that a production of a somewhat obscure novel such as Brideshead Revisited, would be adapted into eleven episodes. Unless Netflix was to make it. Just far too expensive to make by an ITV company (bearing in mind that in 1981 ITV was still made up of the 15 or so local companies, and not what it was to morph into when it became one rather bland organisation it has become in the 21st century.)

Calmer Weather

Sunday. 7.00 a.m. Thankfully the strength of the wind has reduced to virtually nothing. It's sunny at the moment but there's still a chill in the air. Any chance of me wearing my shorts is still not really advisable. We are being told on BBC Breakfast this morning that the weather is likely to improve dramatically by the end of the week. I'm not sure if that means we will experience a heatwave, but anything can be better than rain and howling wind. If that's correct, if will certainly follow the patter of 'May comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb.'

So, we got nil points in the 2021 Eurovision Song Contest held in Rotterdam yesterday evening. The contest wasn't held last year because of the pandemic.  All I can say is, I'm not really surprised, because it would appear that the judging isn't done from an artistic viewpoint (sorry, I can't honestly say there's much artistic in this naff festival of awfulness.), but more likely a political one, most probably because of Brexit and Britain's decision to leave the EU. I think it's about time we just gave up on the whole kit and caboodle and grateful that, because we lost, we don't have to stage it in this country. Our entry was really dire. I had never heard it before yesterday evening. Not that I follow 'pop' music. The whole Eurovision thing is one big yawn, having to listen to several hours of some of the worst music ever written in my opinion, such as it is. I really think we do can much better than this effort. I know it's supposed to unite  us internationally, but I'm sure there is something else we could be doing. I think it does have one thing that's relatively good at the moment, what with lockdowns and pandemics, and that it takes our minds off the awfulness of the last year or so. But as entertainment, I give it nil points. Saturday on any television channel is just awful. Endless gameshows and talent contests and lame drama, which Casualty has become. No wonder people prefer Netflix. Plenty or better viewing elsewhere. Now we have the Diana interview scandal, I think the BBC had better sort itself out otherwise it's days are numbered.

After church I went to Morrison's on the way home. I had precisely three items to buy and I decided I didn't want to queue at a staffed checkout, so I opted to use a self service till. I wish I hadn't bothered. I scanned in each item but when I got to the point where I had to pay with my debit card, the thing just wouldn't accept payment. It took two attempts with a staff member to get the thing to work and a further, third attempt didn't go as planned. There must have been something wrong with the thing, but it did eventually take payment. I just don't like these machines. Or more likely, they don't like me. I'm sure the more we have machines like this, and AI (artificial Intelligence) the more machines are going to take over, in more ways than one. If they got to think for themselves, goodness knows what life is likely to be. Something of a nightmare scenario, like a science fiction film. Remember that scene in 2001: A Space Odyssey, where the on-board computer on the space station won't open a door (or something. I don't remember exactly.) It spoke. We now have voice activated gadgets (think Alexa and Siri.) so it can't be that far into the futur

Even Sillier Title for A Blog Post!

Friday. 5.35 a.m. The wind is howling around outside and something has been rattling or banging. It might be a door or something loose but I have to say it's really annoying me. Why can't someone go out and check and prevent it from doing so? Well, you may ask, if nobody else is going to do it, why don't YOU? Well, I could, but it means getting dressed and going out . . . It's getting light, and Alfie is sleeping in his bed, which is near the window. 

Later. 12.15 p.m. I had to do my washing this morning. Exciting stuff (irony) but very necessary. I was up early, as I have described above. Doing washing up and sorting recycling and rubbish. I took it out to the bin. It's a walk along the corridor to the room but there is no light in that room. The door that leads out into the bin yard has a difficult bolt to withdraw. It really is about time that someone sorted repairing these things as it's surely a matter of health and safety. I think I've discovered what caused the rattle and banging in the night. There was a broken plastic storage box outside and it's so light it can be moved by the wind, so I bought it inside and the noise has ceased! You really would think someone else could deal with this matter, but no.

There are workmen back in Dexter House doing something to the emergency lighting. I don't know what, but the system isn't completed from the last time they were here. The banging and drilling in the downstairs flat have finished thank goodness. I spoke to our SHO (Sheltered Housing Officer) and she tells me that the work is being done by MK Council. So, is my flat in line for a refit? The communal kitchen has been refitted, but some of the work was on hold due to the pandemic, but it looks as if it is being finished off. New cooker and fridge I believe, but I haven't been in to look. It would be nice if I could have my kitchen upgraded. It is somewhat past its best. The bathroom also, but one lives in hope. A full-length bath would be great as the one in there currently isn't long enough for someone over six feet to lay down and have a good soak. My knees have to be bent to allow me to lie down in it and the shower is too low to allow me to stand under it properly. It seems crazy that these things should be only for short people. But never mind, I shouldn't complain. It seems ridiculous that the flat downstairs gets refitted. Why don't they start at the flat nearest the front door and workaround? Just picking one in the middle seems a bit random, or have they selected the flats to refit by sticking a pin in a list and seeing what comes up, or a number picked out of a hat? If it's not done like that it does seem rather like it to me.

Later. 2.20 p.m. It's still blowing a gale, but it doesn't seem as powerful as it was earlier. I took Alfie out just before 2 o'clock and there seemed to be a threat of a downpour, so we came back inside. I arrived outside the flat and found a parcel on the doorstep. I was expecting a parcel from Amazon, but usually, they deliver around 6 p.m. so it was something of a surprise. A digital kitchen scale was only ordered yesterday morning. I opened it and I have to say, first impressions are good. It doesn't have a battery and you have to charge it using a USB cable and as I write it is plugged in and charging in the kitchen. I imagine it will take around 2-3 hours for it to charge fully, so I can test it out later.

I have managed to transfer some of my writing onto word processing, using the iPad's speech-to-text function. It is generally a far quicker way to write than using a keyboard, but still, it's a slow process. You have to keep an eye on the text as some words it mishears and you need to edit it as you go along, but it is a great way to write.

Saturday. 7.05 a.m. The howling wind has receded, thank goodness. Let's hope it remains that way. Also, no rain, but it looks as if we might get more.

Alife spent most of the night sleeping in his bed near the television and in front of the window, but early this morning he came into the bedroom and got on the bed and snuggled up against me under the duvet! He really is a little love and keeps me motivated. 

Later. My doctor at Ashfield Medical Centre prescribe Oxybutin, which is supposed to slow down my need to keep having to wee, and usually this at night. Little did I realise the side effects it would have. I can't say it made any change in my night-time visits to the bathroom, but I kept on with taking it, probably for around 5-6 years. I have mentioned the fact that I have an annoying cough for the past few years, with no other symptoms of flu, cold or feeling feverish. But the cough is caused by a dry and tickly throat and it can be really unpleasant and not a great deal will stop it or at least relive it. So I mentioned this to the doctor who rang me the other day and she said it was likely to be from taking the Oxybutin and she said I ought to stop taking it. So, this is what I have done. I can't say there's a marked improvement in the cough, but it is lilely to take a few weeks for the Oxybutin to work it's way out of my system. At least I have a doctor who doesn't just hand out medications without getting to the route course of whatever it is that's causing problems. I will just have to wait and see what improvements there are because when I get a coughing fit it can be quite nasty and only a drink of water or a sweet to suck can relieve it, but, unfortunately not completely.

Silly Title For A Blog Post!

I can't think of a better name to put in the title of this blog post. And why not? I may think of a better one, but it doesn't really matter.

Wednesday. 10.55 p.m. I was sitting waiting to go out after 9 o'clock this morning and as I waited, the telephone rang and it was the renal unit at Milton Keynes Hospital. My appointment with a consultant there is cancelled. This is a relief to me as it must be due to the consultant there looking at the results of my recent blood test. I was advised by the nice lady I spoke to that I should contact my GP at Central Milton Keynes Medical Centre to discuss where my care will go next. Just a relief that nothing suspicious was discovered.  I then drove to Aldi in Bradwell Common to do a top-up shop. 

I attempted to telephone Central Milton Keynes Medical Centre this afternoon. I could not get through, even after around three attempts. You get through to the appointments line after you get the 'menu of options, but after being held with nothing but a voice telling you which options to select and that you can make your appointment online, I just gave up. Well, I did attempt to make an appointment via the online facility, but for some reason, it has been blocked, so it annoys me that they tell you it is an alternative to the telephone system. I shall just have to have another attempt tomorrow morning.

Thursday. 12.20 p.m. It's a strange sort of day weather-wise. It started out dry and mild, but as I write this the weather has changed for the worse. It's howling a gale outside (just as well not inside!) and I reckon it will rain before the day is over.

At long last, after around half a dozen attempts, I have managed to get through to Central Milton Keynes Medical Centre. I will get a phone call from my doctor on 11th June between 2 and 6 p.m. 

I have bought a food processor. I have spent vouchers I earned from doing online surveys, one of which is something I have been on for around 10 years, where I have to log anything I buy, books, CDs, clothing etc. As you log your items, you earn points and then, when you have enough, you can cash them in for vouchers The site is called Consumer Pulse. The only way you can get involved is to have an invitation, which I did. Over the years I have been able to trade my vouchers in for a Panasonic Freeview box, a Hitachi HD television, a Panasonic microwave oven and several more items. I got most of these items from Argos, and recently I bought myself a new electric kettle, toaster, kitchen knives and more recently the Bosch food processor. I am with other online survey sites, each earning points which can be converted into either cash or vouchers. If Amazon points, it allows me to buy books and virtually anything on their site. I have today ordered a digital kitchen scales which I intend to use to do some baking. I have also done some market research where you chat via Zoom (which is convenient since we were in lockdown at the time.) and earned considerably more than doing the straightforward online surveys. The cash from those has gone into my savings account. I would like more similar surveys.

Later. 2.30 p.m. The post came at around 1.30. I picked it up from the floor after it came through the letterbox. One envelope, with an address window in it. An appointment has been made for me at Milton Keynes Hospital on 21st June. Wait a minute. Didn't I have a telephone call from the hospital to tell me there was no need for the appointment and that it had been cancelled? What is going on here? No wonder the NHS is always in such a financial mess, with this sort of craziness going on. It just seems a waste. A definite case of the left hand not knowing what the right is doing.

Telly Watching- Part 2

I may have to watch 'Line of Duty,' which seems to be very popular and has had extremely high viewing figures. All the episodes are on BBC iPlayer, so I should be able to watch this series. There's been around six series so there's a lot of episodes to get through.

As mentioned in the previous post about 'The Repair Shop', 'Money For Nothing' and 'Saved and Remade', it seems that once the BBC gets the 'bug' with certain genres of shows, they seem to think we'll fall over ourselves to see similar formats. So we get endless cookery shows together with antiques, although it seems this area has slowed down somewhat. 'Flog It' was really a rehash of 'Antiques Roadshow' but with the difference in that the items which are valued by the experts are then sold at auction. I often think that people who go on these shows are only interested in the cash value of their items. Surely you have some sort of emotional attachment to antiques, value their historic value. If you inherited an item that was owned by an ancestor who did something heroic or made some ground-breaking invention or had a fascinating life or was just an ordinary person, surely you'd want to keep it and then pass it on to the next generation. I often think that when medals are shown and there's a provenance attached to them, certification of some sort of a letter, that gives the item, in this case, medals, tells the story behind them. Then people turn round and say 'it belonged to uncle Cuthbert, but I don't like it. It's been in the cupboard or drawer for 25 years and we never look at it, so we might as well sell it.' A bit annoying and, frankly, crazy.

There's not a lot of sitcoms on television at the moment. By sitcom I mean in the classic sense, usually set in a house with a sofa, family orientated. Think 'The Good Life.' (Although there is no actual family in this show. Both couples, the Leadbetter's and the Goods, don't have children.) Usually shot in a studio with a live audience. The one I am about to mention is 'My Family,' which I am watching on BBC iPlayer. It must be some 20 years old (or at least the episodes I have reached.) There's nothing particularly brilliant about it, in fact, the actual events in it are somewhat mundane, it's just the performances of the two lead actors, Robert Lindsay and Zoe Wanamaker. They could make the Telephone Directory funny. I suppose it's the chemistry between them that makes it work. There's nothing very special about the scripts, in fact, they might be described as very ordinary and mundane. It's the actors, particularly Zoe Wanamaker and Robert Lindsay who make it what it is. If it was cast with other actors I don't reckon it would have the same appeal. 

How do you define a sitcom? Interesting question. Usually, a sitcom can be defined as a short-form drama, on television or radio, with a small cast of characters and with an easily identifiable location, a street, home, or workplace, the characters being a family, workplace, or otherwise connected in some other way.  Traditionally, they run for 30 minutes, but longer episodes have been made, but they are rare. Each episode tying up within the running time (usually 30 minutes.) and not always connected to the next episode, although there may be some connection vaguely hinted at. They rarely continue storylines across episodes. Characters never seem to learn from their mistakes (the same in your average soap.) Good story-telling usually requires that a character goes on a 'journey' and by the end of that story they have changed from how they were at the beginning and as a result, they have learned something. The sitcom, in the traditional sense, performed in a studio with a live audience, seems to be dead. The likes of 'Steptoe and Son', 'Fawlty Towers, 'The Good Life' and 'Keeping Up Appearances' have virtually died. Most modern sitcoms, if the term can still be applied to this form of television, are mostly made on film, or at least, video, without an audience. That may not be such a bad thing, as a cackling audience doesn't always help the show. Except for the actors who can time their lines to the audience's reactions, laughing, clapping, or whatever. There are a handful of sitcoms that are made on location, on film (single camera) which don't have a cackling audience in the background. One such being 'Bloomers' and another, which doesn't really fit the term 'sitcom' and that's 'Car Share.' It could never be made in a studio and the fact it's filmed on location adds to the realism.

Woop-de-Ay!!

Well, it just looks and probably sounds silly and really crazy. The word I used as a title for this blog post. Do I care what people think? No. It might describe me, Silly and crazy? The effect of being incarcerated for well over a year. Boris, don't you even think of reinstating lockdown. I think it infringes our human rights if you ask me. Wear a mask over your nose and mouth is awful and, because I wear glasses, it steams them up. I don't think breathing in your own hot breath is good for you. It's like having your face in a sauna.

Monday 5.20 p.m. Having been to get my arm stabbed at Central Milton Keynes Medical Centre (oh, come on! My arm wasn't STABBED! It was done really carefully and very delicately. It did sting slightly, but that's all. At least the nurse managed to take some blood. No, please don't say 'almost an arm-full, from the Hancock episode, The Blood Donor. Can reporters on television and elsewhere in the media not say 'jab' when they refer to a vaccination? It suggests something quite unpleasant and, frankly, violent and might put some people off. Just say 'vaccination.') I walked out of the surgery with bits of cotton wool stuck to my arms where the various attempts at drawing blood were taken. I thought it best to remove these pieces because I was about to drive to Aldi, which is just opposite the doctor's surgery.

I did some shopping in Aldi. It's similar to Lidl, much smaller than Tesco at Kingston or Sainsbury's where I usually shop. There's not the selection that you get in the bigger supermarkets, so you don't have to stand and decide on, say, which brand of probably six or more instant coffees you should put in your trolley. There's less time spent at the till as they whisk your items through, straight into your trolley and then you pack into your reusable bags on a shelf. Nothing is arranged tidily on shelves, usually just left in the boxes and pallets it arrives in the store. I imagine this is how they can cut down on costs. No fancy packaging, advertising, etc. The staff has to work harder than at the big supermarkets, stack shelves, and operate tills. 

I got home and put the items I had bought in Aldi away. It had been clouding over when I left the flat and by the time I finished with the shopping and had sat down to have something to eat, the rain started. Quite violent and heavy. I didn't think Alfie would appreciate the rain, but by about 2.15 it was relatively dry so we went out once again.

Things Can Only Get Better!

Sunday. 1.10 p.m. I thought the title of this blog post seemed really appropriate with how things are going, regarding the pandemic and with the easing of some of the lockdown restrictions. It is the title of a pop song by D:Ream, not that I'm particularly interested in pop songs, but it was the theme music used by the Labour Party at the time of the 1997 General Election which swept Tony Blair to power with a landslide victory. Not sure all the hullabaloo and fanfare which greeted the New Labour victory was exactly carried through into however many successive governments they formed after 1997 or that their promises got fulfilled, but it was definitely a memorable song. How many politicians promise so much in their election manifestoes and then keep them? I think you could write a complete essay on that subject, but I won't on here. 

More people are now allowed in church! Full to capacity, but still socially distanced, but now we have tea and coffee, served in the courtyard area outside. A few months ago we had the Freedom In Christ course on Zoom. I met one of the guys who was one of the participants for the first time this morning and it was odd seeing him 'in the flesh.' We have got so used to only meeting virtually, via computer screens. Although it is amazing to be able to communicate using digital technology, it is certainly not the same as meeting someone face-to-face.

I have been watching a production of 'The Importance of Being Earnest on Broadway HD. It is a recording of a production that was in the West End  a couple of years ago and had Sophie Thompson playing Lady Bracknell. I know the play very well, almost as well as I know 'Hamlet,' and seen it in various productions, live on stage, television productions and both the 1952 film version with Edith Evans in her iconic role as Lady Bracknell and probably the one version others have to use as a blueprint, particularly in her infamous intonation of the line 'A hand . . .bag???' Also, the more recent film version with Judi Dench as Lady Bracknell and Colin Firth as Jack and Rupert Everett as Algenon. It was partially filmed at West Wycombe Park, a National Trust property which I have visited with Carol in the past. It is used as a location in several films and television series but is probably used far too much, but supposedly it's convenient to London and nearby film studios such as Pinewood and Shepperton. Why does Lady Bracknell have to be played by an actor who is ancient? What age is she supposed to be? If her daughter Gwendolen is around 18-20, it would mean she must have been around 25ish when she was born, so she would be around 45-50, but generally, she is played by someone around 75-80ish, which doesn't really compute. It's probably down to casting an actor who is suitable to play such a central character, which might explain why she is generally made out to be older rather than younger. Just my thoughts on the matter of her casting.

Monday 6.55 a.m. At least it's a good deal lighter each morning earlier and earlier, so my outings with Alfie are likewise earlier than, say, a month ago. Another mild and relatively fine morning.

Hooray and yah yaddley-hoo! I (sounds like something the character played by Hugh Laurie would play in 'Blackadder. Probably Prinny in the one set at the time of the Regency.) know that's nonsense, but something has to be said to announce the fact that more places are being opened up and free of restrictions. It's a bit like 'The Sleeping Beauty, where the castle and it's inhabitants have been put to sleep for one-hundred years by the wicked fairy who wasn't invited to Princess Arora's christening, so she puts a spell on the child and the entire castle, so they fall asleep for one-hundred years if the girl pricks her finger. Then, exactly one-hundred years later, the dashing prince rides in on his snow-white charger, battles through the brambles and thorns which have grown up around the castle and inside he eventually discovers the princess, asleep in the top-most turret of the tallest tower and kisses her and as she awakens, the entire castle plus inhabitants wake up . . .  The whole place having been put in lockdown.

Just as I was going to settle down and do some writing (which, by the way, is going exceedingly well.) some delightful soul sees fit to start hammering in one of the flats below me. Probably hacking tiles off a wall to refit the kitchen, but not sure what it is. But just so annoying. Unless, of course, they have a very bad infestation of deathwatch beetle. But I don't think so, but you never know. Someone just trying to get attention? Probably not. Still infuriatingly annoying whatever it is.

Later. 12.35 p.m. I had to go to Central Milton Keynes Medical Centre to have blood taken. I got to the carpark far too early so had to wait. You are told to arrive no more than five minutes before your appointment, but I went in a bit earlier. Always a chance I will be seen earlier so it's worth it. You have to speak into an intercom on the door, give your name and whether you've had any coronavirus-related symptoms. Well, I haven't, so I went inside and sat down, having applied sanitizer to my hands from a bottle near the door. I was soon called in by the digital display board. I have to lay down on the bed thingy (what is the correct name? Can't think at the moment.) The nurse who was going to take the blood sample had real problems finding a vein in my right arm. I just happen to have narrow veins which is one reason why there is a problem with me when they come to take blood. Then she decided it was probably an idea to take it from my left arm, so I had to turn right around so she could get at my left arm. Eventually, she was able to find a vein and the sample was taken, but she said earlier that perhaps I would have to book another appointment, which I really didn't want. One reason for it being so difficult might be that I was somewhat dehydrated. Apparently, you get dehydrated overnight and as a result, I should drink more. I did actually have a drink before I left home, but I should perhaps drink considerably more than I do.

Incidentally, just as a coda. Today is the 15th anniversary of my first heart attack. Not that I really want to remember it, but still worth mentioning.

Normal Life? Don't Bank on It!

Thursday. 6.45 a.m.  So, what are the chances that we might return to some sort of normal life with lockdown restrictions being lifted, or at least, some of them? Let me think. Probably not going to be quite as 'normal' as one might expect, because there's still going to be the threat of further outbreaks of coronavirus infections. So, tomorrow (Monday) the first of the lifting of restrictions are going to begin.

My lovely daughter, Chloe, has just given birth to the fourth grandchild, a girl, Rosie Alice. Born 10th May, weight 7lb 15oz. Just hope I can go and visit them soon in Worcester. The three other boys, George, Eddie, and Arthur will no doubt make a real fuss of her! I can't wait to go and visit them. It's been so long since I went to see them. In fact, it was Christmas 2019 when I was last with them.

Friday. 7.00 a.m. It's overcast and mild. It was wet yesterday, so let's hope it remains relatively dry today.

During his Downing Street press conference the other evening, Boris Johnson was talking about how we will be able to cuddle once some of the lockdown restrictions are lifted. It was all mentioned with a very serious look on his face. The same could be said of the reporters who have been covering all of this on BBC News,  BBC Breakfast, and so on. How on earth they managed to avoid bursting into laughing I can't imagine. To be honest, it really would do no harm to let go and at least smile when discussing it. It is coming over rather like a sketch on Monty Python's Flying Circus or The Goon Show. Things have been pretty grim for the last year and more, so a guffaw or titter wouldn't hurt. 'Oh er, madam! Titter not!' as Frankie Howerd would have said. 'Cuddle not! Ooh er, Missus!' 

The other thing which might put the cat among the pigeons might be what they call the 'Indian Variant' of the coronavirus which has been identified within the United Kingdom. But we must get out of this current situation and we can't go on running away from this virus. We all know that viruses mutate and this one is no exception. 

Saturday. 8.10 a.m. Quietly sitting and working on the laptop. I've been out with Alfie, as normal. It's raining, but not heavy. A light shower, almost like a mist. ('mist-like would be better.) Then my ears are assaulted by the fire alarm going off. Just so loud it hurts my ears. It can't be a test, because that is done during the week when our S.H.O. is here, and it lasts about 30 seconds. Alfie barks and doesn't stop barking. Nothing for it, but to go outside. I abandon what I'm doing on the laptop, scoop up Alfie in my arms (which stops him barking. I suppose it's difficult to do so if he's being held.), and walk down to the front door and stand under the awning to keep out of the rain. Alfie is heavy to hold for any length of time, so I put him on the ground. He shakes like a leaf. I suppose, because dogs can hear higher pitch sounds than humans, it must hurt his ears, hence his barking. After around five minutes we can hear a fire engine approaching, and it roars up with lights flashing and one of the firemen gets out and I have to let him into Dexter House with my keys because the automatic door doesn't open without. (This needs repairing urgently and causes some annoyance and inconvenience.) It turns out someone left something cooking in their oven and it was that that set the fire alarms off. After around 15 minutes the noise went off and we could return to my flat. Panic over!

Lockdown Lifting!

Tuesday. 8.30 a.m. Yesterday afternoon we had another of the, by now, rather a familiar coronavirus press conferences from Downing Street, with Prime Minister Boris Johnson in charge.  The best news was that the 'Roadmap' out of lockdown will go ahead as planned, without any u-turns or diversions along the way. So Monday will see most of the restrictions that have been in place for many months being lifted, but still with a certain 'cautious optimism' pervading the whole. One of the restrictions being removed is, being able to hug family members. A great deal is made of this! As I imagine you would expect.

It's bright and sunny as I write this, but still not particularly warm. Just thinking of the saying 'Nay cast a clout until Maybe out.' Which may or may not (sorry about the pun, unintentional or intentional??) refer to the May tree, or hawthorn, or possibly the month of May. Meaning, to not take off a layer of clothing until the month, or possibly, the May tree is blooming. Possibly winters were colder than they are now, because the hawthorn, or May, is definitely blooming at the moment. So, is it such a good idea to go out without your coat at the moment? That's a matter of debate, but I have gone out without mine on a few occasions, but then, when it's felt cold, I have regretted it.  Similarly, the Shakespeare line in one of his sonnets (can't remember which one.) 'Rough winds do shake the darling buds of may.' It's from Sonnet 18. (I cheated as I did a Google search, but never mind.)

I've done some more writing! I had started a sequence and then had some thoughts on how to improve it, so I started it again and have amended it with the new addition. There is more of it to go and it seems to be working better now. I can't believe I was working on this so early. Barely 7.30-8.00 p.m. I just need to construct the conclusion of this sequence. I have to say I rather enjoy the construction of plots. If I say any more then it will give things away. It has a 'meta' feel to it. If you understand literary terms, then you will know what I mean.

A trailer for EastEnders as I wait for something or other to come on this evening. I think it was for 'Money For Nothing.' Anyway, a lot of shouting and being really nasty to each other. A wedding of a couple of characters. Don't ask me who, why, etc. But you can always tell what the outcome will be, don't you? Always ends in disaster. What is it about living in Walford that means a marriage ends in tragedy or at least total disaster? Is it the water? Just living in that run-down square? In real life, would you choose to live somewhere like Albert Square? Why not simply move away? 

Wednesday. 6.50 a.m. A bright and sunny morning. Very still as we walked down Strudwick Drive and an almost perfect blue sky. How long will it last? 'Sunshine and showers', according to Carol Kirkwood on BBC Breakfast which is on the television as I write this.

Later. I've managed to write a good deal more. The only problem is that Alfie is staring at me. It's difficult to concentrate on what I'm doing. I give him a couple of treats out of the treat tin on the bookshelf. I write a bit more, but he continues to sit on the sofa, staring at me, his gaze shifting towards the treat tin. I attempt to ignore him but this is a dog with an incredible ability to get what he wants, so I take a few more treats out of the tin. Several are placed along the edge of the coffee table and one on the back of the sofa. He finds the ones on the coffee table, and from where I sit it amuses me to see his little face appear above the edge of the coffee table and he manages to pick one up with his mouth and then he jumps onto the sofa and finds the one on the sofa back. So, he settles back down and I continue to write. 

At around 9.45 I decided to take Alfie out. It is threatening rain which I can see from the kitchen window. Dark clouds gathering and when we come out onto Strudwick Drive there are definite spots of rain that fall onto my face as we walk along. I had to buy somewhat inferior poo bags from Morrison's because for some reason, Sainsbury's didn't have any in stock when I did my last online order, and then when I visited the store there were none. Probably stock availability due to lockdown or something. Morrison's version is thinner, but they do their job more or less adequately. On returning along Strudwick Drive I can see blue flashing lights at the junction of Strudwick Drive and Chaffron Way. I can vaguely see what must be a police car in the distance, the green and blue check design identifying it, or if not a police car, at least an emergency vehicle of some sort. I couldn't be certain, but I reckon someone has attempted to turn out onto Chaffron Way and got hit by a passing vehicle. Generally not advisable to turn right out of there, but to turn left and then do a complete circuit of the roundabout and continue along Chaffron Way.

It's Raining!, It's Pouring!

 Saturday. 7.45 a.m. I had a fairly good idea that it was raining this morning and I could see clearly that it was when I looked out of the kitchen window around 6.15. I made sure that I was well dressed for such weather conditions and so I put on my bright yellow raincoat. Alfie has his rain jacket on as we went out into Strudwick Drive. We weren't out more than a minute because no sooner had Alfie had done his wee on the grass than he took us back inside in the dry. You can't blame him really, but as I've said before, he doesn't like getting wet!

Later. 2.15 p.m. I was due to meet up with Nick in the Central Shopping centre at midday. I couldn't drive in as my car is inoperative at the moment, as you would know if you follow my posts regularly. Even though it was raining (and it still is as I write.) I decided to walk as it's no more than a 20-30 minute hike, crossing Oldbrook Green and then through to Avebury Boulevard and then a short walk into the central shopping centre. I noticed as I walked past,  Debenham's unit is to be taken over by Next (Debenhams went into administration a few months ago.) I was wondering what would happen to that unit when they moved out. Now I know. Also, the former House of Fraser unit is now something to do with Harrods, I think it looks like beauty products they sell, having seen as I walked past.

I had to find somewhere to sit. The management of the shopping centre has seen fit to remove virtually all of the seating within the centre to comply with government social distancing regulations because of the pandemic. What seating there is, is extremely limited. I managed to find a place to rest and sent Nick a text to let him know I was near Specsavers. Then a couple came to sit down, the husband was disabled so I let him have my place. I had to find another seat so moved along the centre. Nick appeared and we went to get take out food and coffee from Costa near Marks and Spencer's. We could have ordered using the Costa app which would have probably meant we needn't have to queue. As it was there was a queue outside so we had to wait to get in.

We managed to find a spot to have our coffee, me sitting on one of the vacant seats and nick on the wall nearby. Then we walked to John Lewis. It was surprising how few people there were inside and no queuing outside but I used the hand gel which was provided at the entrance.

By the time we walked back along the shopping centre, it was time for me to walk home. Nick remained a bit longer and then caught his bus back to Northampton. 

Sunday. As the car was inoperative, it meant I couldn't drive to church, so I watched the live feed via Facebook. For some technical reason, the video was somewhat jerky, but the audio was fine.

Monday. 6.55 a.m. A mild morning. Not a great deal happening at the moment and I don't really expect there to be. Slight rain and Alfie didn't intend to stay out any longer than necessary.

Later. I rang Bleakhall Motors after 8 o'clock but the mechanic who was back yesterday won't be back till later today. I'll ring again at 2 o'clock and hopefully, someone will come out and fix the problem. The batter needs testing to check that it isn't something else that is wrong with the electrics, but I still maintain that it's the battery that has failed, not charging so a new one will require installing.

I had a telephone call from one of the doctors at Central Milton Keynes Medical Centre. I was expecting it to be at around 10 a.m. but the call came at 9.30. I have to have a blood test, which is arranged for next Monday, this time to check my kidney function. One of my medications will be dropped as it is responsible for my dry throat and causing the horrible cough I get. No problem with that. I must say, telephone consultations with my doctor is easier via telephone because you don't have to worry about parking or even driving to the surgery.

3.10 p.m. I was expecting to have to telephone Bleak Hall Motors around 2 o'clock, but at 1.45 they actually rang me to say their mechanic was waiting outside, so I rushed downstairs and the mechanic was there with his van. We tried to start the car and he told me it was the battery that was the cause of why the car wasn't starting. He had two replacement batteries in the van. I chose the cheaper one but was surprised at the cost, but there's no point in having a car if you start worrying about running costs and repairs. It was soon fitted and the car run for a while. I later rang Bleak Hall Motors and paid using my bank card and that was that. Another problem solved.

T'was On A Monday Morning . . .

May Day Bank Holiday. 3.00p.m.  No, the gasman didn't call, according to the Flanders and Swann song. No, not swansong as in, 'the last song.' If you get my meaning. Sorry, just a bit of digression on my part, before I even start. I just felt like using it as a title for this blog and no more. But it is a good song. But who knows who Flanders and Swann were?

 I went out during the afternoon and it was blustery and there was the possibility of rain. Well, I did feel a few splashes of rain and I know that Alfie doesn't like getting wet, so he sniffed around on the grass and we came back inside. All things considered, it's just a typical Bank Holiday. Can you honestly tell me when it's been dry and sunny on such a day?

I've just been to Waitrose and I was surprised how busy it was. No queuing to get in, but they were restricting the number of people going in. 

Tuesday. 7.35 a.m. It's bright and sunny, but when I took Alfie out I was surprised by how windy and cold it was. Very deceptive, because my flat faces away from the wind and you can't hear it.

Later. I got a knock on my door at around 1.30 p.m. It was a young lady bringing my new glasses. I mentioned that I'd had my eyes test a few weeks ago. Much to my surprise that they would do it at Dexter House and that I would have new glasses made up. The new ones needed adjusting because, when I tried them on, they did slip down my nose, but with a bit of adjustment they were fine. I'm using the reading glasses to help me write this. Another thing ticked off!

Wednesday.  5.40 a.m.As you can see, not exactly over-busy at the moment. I'm stuck for anything major to write about on this blog post. Just a few lines for each day. Sitting here writing this with Alfie sleeping in his bed and waiting to take him outside. 

I was planning to go to Sainsbury's this morning. I had a well-planned shopping list as usual. But things didn't go as hoped when I went to start the car. The thing wouldn't start. I then considered walking to Sainsbury's, but then it occurred to me that it would be too much to have to lug everything back home. I rang Bleak Hall Motors but they couldn't come to help as they didn't have anyone available until probably Friday. At this point I decided to do my shop via Sainsbury's website which I did, referring to my shopping list and the 'favourites' making it considerably quicker. 'Favourites' saves those products you've previously ordered and you only need to click on those items to add to your trolley. Unfortunately, I couldn't get a delivery slot until Thursday evening, between 7.30-8.30. Not really a problem, but I will have to have my evening meal once the delivery is checked in. Not a problem. I'm only so glad I have the internet otherwise I couldn't have done this order. Certainly a lot quicker than visiting the brick-and-mortar store.

Thursday 9.30 a.m. It's a bit drab and dull today. The sun is not shining. On BBC Breakfast earlier Carol Kirkwood, the lady who does the weather forecast was saying that there had been snow in Scotland which is supposed to be a rare occurrence in early May.

2.30 p.m. I've only just got back from taking Alfie around Oldbrook Green. I saw one of the little white 'Starship' robotic pods (not really sure how else to describe them. Beer fridges on wheels, ice cream fridges? They look a bit like those chill cabinets you get when you go on a picnic to keep your sandwiches and drinks cool.) We caught up as it hurled along the path. I stood in its way, thinking it would stop, but it managed to go round me. I just wanted to have a conversation, but it didn't seem interested. It just scurried off on its deliveries and that was the end of that. I must say, they do seem to have a personality, even if it's a bit arrogant and mysterious. I don't think I'd want to encounter a whole group of them on a dark and windy night in a narrow alleyway. Who knows what injury they could inflict on you if they attacked your kneecaps.

Covid Regulations Lifting

Saturday. 7.30 a.m. Today is the 1st of May! It's incredible to believe that we're almost halfway through 2021.

 It seems that the covid vaccines are working and reducing infections and thankfully, deaths. This means we are gradually coming out of this pandemic lockdown and even more so, HOPEFULLY, we won't have to have any more in the 'relatively near future.' On the 21st June, as part of the Government's 'roadmap' out of this situation, we can get back to some sort of normal.

Sunny and bright out and really pleasant. Let's hope it stays that way.

I took Alfie out at gone 2 o'clock. Sunny and bright. There were lots of people on and around Oldbrook Green. A group on the far side playing cricket. Children playing football, or at least kicking footballs into the goal in the tarmacked area on the 'Cricketers' side. There is a board which has 'Oldbrook Green' emblazoned on it and a list of 'does and don't (More don'ts as you would expect from a beaurocracy, Campbell Park Parish Council.) One of them says 'no cricket,' 'no organized games.'What about disorganized games? But, please explain what you mean by an organized game? So, what on earth is the point of this large piece of grass if it's not for playing games? I must say it was great to see people enjoying themselves and not being locked up in their homes because of the pandemic. So, what happens if you get caught playing cricket? Not that I'm a fan, but I'd love to see how they could stop this sort of thing. Sounds a bit like life under Oliver Cromwell and the Puritans. Would you get arrested and shoved into a van with handcuffs on? Staring out through bars? Clapped in irons? Makes you wonder. Would be mean you get a criminal record? Look a bit silly on your record: arrested for playing cricket. Who makes up these rules, and why?

Later. 10.00 p.m. I've been watching a musical version of 'The Wind In The Willows' on BroadwayHD. It has music and lyrics by Styles and Drew who did the additional songs for the Cameron Macintosh/Disney stage musical of 'Mary Poppins.' Book by Julian Fellowes, who wrote the ITV series 'Downton Abbey' and did the adaptation of 'Mary Poppins.' Bright and breezy and very clear story-telling, At least the animal characters aren't dressed in obvious costumes. Suggestions that they are a particular type of animal by the addition of hats, ears stuck on, tails, etc., while the actor's faces are kept clear. No real attempt to be 'realistic' which includes the set design.

Sunday. We have to book tickets for church through something called Eventbrite. As we can only have 40 people in the hall, including musicians, it seems the best way to keep control of the numbers, to make sure we adhere to the government's regulations. I thought I had booked my ticket, but it turns out that I hadn't. Just can always trust technology.