Monday 4^th May

We are fortunate to live close to the public-accessed land owned by Croft quarry, with a network of regularly maintained trails and board-walks. No maintenance is taking place during Lock-down, and boardwalks are suffering, no doubt partly because of increased use by locals (and no doubt not-so-locals) using the area for daily exercise. The longest boardwalk is disintegrating in places, and walkers are advised to keep off, instead walking through the damp vegetation beside it.

I have an appointment to donate platelets tomorrow, and yesterday a text reminded me to attend, my journey defined as essential. Today, while out walking, I am triaged over the phone to check that I have had no Covid symptoms, nor been in contact with anyone who has. I reassure them, and am reminded again to attend the session.

As you know, Steven has been in lockdown with us, a trying experience for him – he doesn’t share our love of gardening, and has days spent quietly in a separate room while we work at home. His daily highlight is a cycle ride around local lanes. His girlfriend Adrienne, living in Atherstone, has recently had minor Covid-like symptoms, and as a key worker in the food industry, was recently tested for C-19. The result was negative, and, with no timetable for the end of lockdown, she and Steven decided that this was an opportune time for him to move in with her. She arrived today, loaded her car with Steven and his possessions, and returned to Atherstone, breaching Social Isolation guidance, but we fully understand.This is a one-way trip, at least for the foreseeable future

We visit Andree to deliver food “supplies”. She is gardening, and opens the gate to allow Chantal into the house to put items into the fridge. We chat at the gate in the sunshine, suitable socially distanced. Andree needs to sit down, but is clearly appreciating the conversation, and so we sit in the garden, metres apart, and chat for over an hour. Another breach of social distancing? Possibly, but Andree lives alone, and we are her first visitors for weeks, other than chats with Chantal from the end of the drive. I feel that the benefit outweighs the risk. Andree’s Swiss sisters Skyped her on Sunday, but not for long – they had a virtual church service to attend. They were a bit put out when Andree pointed out to them that maybe God was busy at present, what with 27000 deaths in England alone.

Steven calls to confirm safe arrival in Atherstone. Earlier, while manoeuvring a very large suitcase, he tripped, leaving a cut on his nose. Despite his protests Adrienne insisted on a visit to A&E to patch up the damage. He was taken aside and questioned on his circumstances. Yes, he did get on well with his girlfriend. No, he had no issues with Mum or Stepdad. There have been reports of increased domestic emotional and physical abuse during lockdown, and clearly health professionals are assessing whether intervention is necessary.

The first pack of face masks has arrived, but for the time being remain in the sterile packaging. My shoes used for pottering around indoors are falling apart. I avoid buying shoes online – they will need to last a bit longer.

Posted: Tuesday, May 5th, 2020
Category: News and Views from the Oakstump
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