Lockdown 2

In some ways it felt just like a weekend, us all here enjoying a late breakfast. A FaceTime call from Australia and an exchange of the global impact on us all was the indicator that this was different. Three out of the five of us here logged on to the internet, which has slowed massively.Continue reading “Lockdown 2”

Draconian measures 1

So after a surreal day at work with 3 students in, the PM has introduced far more stringent measures and its lockdown: only can go out for food shopping, medical, work if critical and exercise. These will be testing times and I will look to work from home until Friday, when I’m rota’d to beContinue reading “Draconian measures 1”

It’s life, but not as we know it….

These last few weeks have been extraordinary. The daily challenges faced, the communication updates and the stark reality now of changes that may become more of the norm – I hope not though. With schools now ‘closed’, but still open for certain students, structure will need to be maintained. As we approach the end ofContinue reading “It’s life, but not as we know it….”

It’s not what we have, but who we have in our lives that matter…….

Yesterday we enjoyed a wonderful afternoon with our niece, nephew and their son, great to chat, laugh and enjoy time together. Joe was here for a short while and Nina for longer and I was grateful that they were with us. Just after they left Nina came downstairs to say that Caroline Flack had died.Continue reading “It’s not what we have, but who we have in our lives that matter…….”

AY 2019/20

First week of the new academic year and it’s felt longer. Perhaps having no real break means you don’t feel that you’ve got to get back in the swing? Last weekend we made a start on decluttering the loft: not much progress made, but we at least have started! I have painted the face onContinue reading “AY 2019/20”

Term 7 week 4

A Level results this week, which were pleasing and great to share in the students’ successes, and also a week full of the emotional rollercoaster. I’ve caught up with friends, family, visited Kew again, completed routine tasks, dealt with contractors, looked at LG staff to begin pay assimilation, cooked, cleaned and made cards in equalContinue reading “Term 7 week 4”

Term 7 Week 2

Another full week with jobs crossed of a list that keeps getting added to! Last Saturday we visited Kevin’s Nan as she celebrated her 98th birthday. The youngest family member was there too, and good to catch up. When we got home Georgina had cut back the ivy that has been covering the wall nearContinue reading “Term 7 Week 2”

Half term

Since the turn of the new year it’s been frantic, but the weeks have flown by The Guinness six nations has begun and half term has arrived! I’ve noticed that it’s lighter in the mornings, darker later in the evening and even seen a snowdrop or two. That always fills me with joy. I’ve alsoContinue reading “Half term”

OH 60 Day 4

So the 21st of August was upon us, Kevin’s 60th birthday. I asked him what time he was born and he didn’t know. I was up at 7:15, to find there was no water. After much twiddling with taps I managed to squeeze a dribble to wash my hair. After that whilst drying my hairContinue reading “OH 60 Day 4”

A weekend of cricket,sun and a Brucie Bonus!

Way back I put in to the ballot for the Lord’s test England v Pakistan and was successful for yesterday. The first two days went Pakistan’s way but we hoped to see England make a better fist of playing against the young, talented Pakistan side. Now that is as deep as I will probably be!Continue reading “A weekend of cricket,sun and a Brucie Bonus!”

Snow Day

We have been warned about the Beast from the East, an extreme weather forecast with snow, freezing temperatures and all the chaos that can bring! I received the first text just after 5:30am and got up and left for work at 6:40. Roads were treacherous in places, the car drifted and flurries of snow wereContinue reading “Snow Day”

HK part 2 Aberdeen, Stanley and Repulse Bay

The green route covers the North of the island with a good commentary of the history of HK. It seems less urbanised than the South, more of a holiday location. Again I was challenged with twists and turns but breathtaking views! As part of this route we enjoyed a Sampan ride- part 3

Just taking it easy

After the exertions of yesterday, today was going to be a little more relaxed. The kids went to the beach after breakfast to tandem kayak and to do paddle boarding. Kevin and I had a leisurely breakfast and took a walk up the hill to visit the white church we can see from our room.Continue reading “Just taking it easy”

Monday and no work!

I was woken up early by Georgina, still overawed by the previous evening events. We watched the sun rise together and talked about the proposal and the excitement generated. This has been something she has dreamt of for so long and their unbridled joy is just so touching. We enjoyed a chilled day with usContinue reading “Monday and no work!”