Corona Diaries

Grace

“My last daily entry must end with a massive thank you to the scientists and NHS for all they have done and

for helping to protect myself my family and friends as we continue to live with Covid.”

Background Information

Female, aged 65-74, Retired, living in South Wales, White, Married to Bob. One grown up son, Max,

and 2 grandchildren, Josh and Ieuan with whom Grace keeps in close contact with throughout the

pandemic.

March 2020

March 17th Tuesday

St Patrick’s Day. Decided to keep a diary of how things proceed with the corona virus crisis. Advice now is

for those 70+ to social distance as much as possible. We are both well but have taken temperature last few

days. Went out to Home Bargains this morning and did a bit of a stock up – no tinned tomatoes. Governing

body meeting cancelled and sadly Becca and James’ wedding cancelled for Saturday- although they hope

for an intimate ceremony.

March 18th Wednesday

Did early shop at Waitrose quite well served with food at present. Josh’s school suspended for his year and

Max working at home. Some issues with car in the morning as his battery was flat. Announcement at

lunchtime that schools will close from Friday for the foreseeable future. Lots of activity on Rainbow Federation

Whatsapp. Did nice walk up to reservoir late afternoon. Lovely signs of spring and reservoir filling up. Daily

chat with Ashleigh who says hospital is very challenging at present.

March 19th Thursday

Chatted with Lisa in the morning. She and Glen have decided not to go to James and Becca’s ceremony

which will go ahead with 10 guests. Liam and Samantha Evans are at Cairo airport hoping they can get on

one of the last flights out of Egypt. Gavin Keane from Mumbles rang – they got back from the South of France

last night. They had to have paperwork from the government as they drove to the airport. They were stopped

by plainclothes police who wanted to see boarding passes and tickets. Gavin said it was all quite scary and

they are glad to be home. Posted card to Becca and James and letter to old people’s home. Nice walk in

Celtaidd Park – chatted at distance to Matthew. Enjoyed lamb stew from slow cooker. Good chat to Ashleigh

who had worked for 4 hours on her day off. I worry about her on frontline in the hospital with asthma. Nice

message at end of day from Jane that wedding might be live streamed.

March 20th Friday

A lovely sunny day. Met up with Alisha on the prom at Celtaidd Park at 10.00am and did 4 mile walk together.

Lots of folk out walking but we were careful to keep suitable distance between us. Quiet afternoon and

watched Boris Johnson’s 5.00pm daily broadcast to nation. He has now announced closure of all gyms, bars,

cafes etc. Feels like quite a big change and restrictions ramping up. Had video calls with Ashleigh and Max

and Penelope – getting into this now. Everyone has hit the wine... but calm and well so far. Lovely salmon

dinner and enjoyed Ready Steady Go.

March 21st Saturday

Made most of the golden hour 7.30 to 8.30 at Waitrose. Bob came with me as you have to be over 70. Well

stocked up with food. Spoke to James late morning who made sure we were all good to go with live streaming

of his and Becca’s wedding. Got all dressed up and thoroughly enjoyed watching the wedding. Thrilled it was

able to go ahead. Celebrated with smoke salmon blinis and white wine and a disco in our lounge. Great that

we were able to get periscope to work so we were able to watch the wedding. Walked by the stream late

afternoon. Watched TV and chatted to Max in the evening. Josh in particular is finding it challenging to stay

in.

March 22nd Sunday

Mothering Sunday. Good chat on facetime with Henry and Nancy - interesting to hear how Australia are

impacted by the virus. Feels like they are a couple of weeks behind us. Parked in Ty Mawr car park and

walked to farm at top of hill with Max, Penelope and boys and Ashleigh, Lianne plus Alisha and Mason. Bob

went with advance party and I walked with Ashleigh and Lianne. We are all having to walk 2 metres apart –

not easy with children bit I kept to it. Beautiful Spring day – lots out but for now easy to keep distance. Big

circular chat in car park. Lovely cards and flowers from family. Chilled evening.

March 23rd Monday

Lots of chat in the morning on the Class of 69 whatsapp group. Good that we have this means of keeping in

touch. Did aerobics session on youtube. Linda son’s has had virus but recovered and going back to his job

as a Doctor in London. Started touch survey on computer. Popped to Dwyn’s and got compost for us and

Mavis – she is staying inside for 12 weeks due to underlying health issues. Walked around Celtaidd Park –

lovely Spring sunshine and spring flowers. Less people than previously but a bit of a challenge to keep

distance. Boris on at 8.30 pm – has extended shut down – shops closing and can only go out with immediate

household.

March 24th Tuesday

Finished the touch survey – wifi seemed a bit iffy but just held out. Had shower. Chatted to Daisy late morning

– she is doing ok but it must all be harder for folks who live alone. Some confusion re new restrictions – quite

dangerous that there were posts online of groups of 3 being represented as anti-social whereas the new rules

say you can go out as a family group. Did lovely walk in the afternoon chatted at distance to Mavis and Gavin.

Facetime family – all OK. Fish and chips tea and TV. Avoid 10.00 pm news as does not help with sleeping.

March 25th Wednesday

Good chat with Harvey in the morning. He has been asked by an Australian to write an article on how Covid

19 is impacting financial markets. Had shopped first thing in the morning at Waitrose – we like it there as you

can stay apart from others – got everything we needed- tinned foods are a bit of a rarity. Washed down food

when we got it home as advised. Walked in the afternoon in lovely spring sunshine. Chatted to Sandy who

has health issues and has been asked not to go out for 12 weeks. Also daily chat with Ashleigh. Lianne and

Mason are to be tested but thankfully they are not too unwell. Mason has developed a slight cough and as

Lianne is a phlebotomist, she is off work.

March 26th Thursday

Baked a sponge for the family first thing. Did our daily walk late morning. Only walking from the house now.

Explored the fields close by the house where we haven’t been for years. Chatted at distance to our Neighbour

on the way back – this is hardest for those who live alone and are not on social media. Max called over in the

afternoon and we passed on some shopping and a few treats for the boys. Great to have news that Seth has

made it back from Australia. A real relief. Very emotional at 8pm when lots of people in the street came out

to applaud NHS staff.

March 27th Friday

Long chat with family on facetime first thing. They are all doing OK. Did our youtube aerobics class for 20

minutes. News broke late morning that Boris Johnson has developed Covid19. While I am not a fan, I think

he has done quite well in leading the country. Later news came that Matt Hancock the Health Secretary and

one other of the top health guys have symptoms. Walked in the afternoon on another sunny day. Made

mushroom risotto which I have never done before – gave it a 7/10 but enjoyed it. Watched England beat

Australia in cricket world cup semi-final from last summer.

March 28th Saturday

Alarm at 6.30 and out to Waitrose for golden hour shopping at 7.30. Had to queue to go in today f or the first

time but shelves OK for stock. Thrilled to get tin tomatoes! No newspapers. Wiped shopping down when we

got home as advised. Did a practice run on Zoom in the afternoon with fellow governors from the Rainbow

Federation. Worked OK. Made curries in the afternoon for freezer and family. Chilled out in evening with TV

– plenty to watch on the planner. Messages exchanged on Class 69 Whatsapp group – Ellen had a beautiful

birthday card for her 3 year old grand- daughter.

March 29th Sunday

Clocks went forward overnight so we’ve lost an hour which doesn’t seem such a bad thing at present. Baked

a sponge and had another go at mushroom risotto, 10/10 this time. Watched cricket world cup game with

Bob, lovely to see Prydferth Gardens in the sunshine. Bob had attended the game last summer – happy days.

Cold wind but determined to have our daily walk. Bumped into Paul outside playing with daughter – chatted

at distance which everyone seems to be observing. Max called over and chatted on drive. Neighbours popped

out. He is still working as supplying NHS and she is continuing to work from home but struggling with home

schooling. Enjoyed watching England cricket win world cup in the evening.

March 30th Monday

Did some computer admin in the morning replied for refund from Cheltenham races and did Mike Ward’s

consent form. Started typing up diaries. Also did some prep for Governors meeting via Zoom this evening.

Watched Mark Drakeford live broadcast over lunch. Wales seems to be fairing slightly better than England

on number of cases. Walked in local fields in the afternoon – folk like to stop and chat which is quite a new

experience. Got phone call from Imagine holidays – they suggest they won’t start refunding our cancelled

Japan trip until at least the end of July. Concerned re dodgy business practices. Successful Governors

meeting on Zoom – 18 people attended, and I was confirmed as vice chair.

March 31st Tuesday

Spoke to surgery as I have a bit of a water infection – easier than usual to get through and prescription for

antibiotics can be picked up from local pharmacy. All very efficient. Did some letters and card writing in the

morning. Loved the online video of family of 6 performing lockdown anthem to One More Day from Les Mis.

Cut Bob’s hair – not let him loose on mine yet. Thrilled to have facetime from Josh early afternoon – he does

not want to be part of diary project said he wanted to keep secrets to himself. Family have had a better day.

Started antibiotics. Walked out to post letters. Usual chill out in the evening – Max put us on to Wisden quizs

and he and Bob had long chat re sport on facetime.

April 2020

Wednesday April 1st

Good to move into a new month – March has seemed very long. Don’t think there will be many April fool

jokes. Up to Waitrose for 7.30 – new rule only 1 member of household allowed in. We did 2 separate

trolleys but in future one of us will go out each week. Did more typing up of diary. At coffee we read back

over last decade of holiday diaries – so glad I kept them. Walked in the afternoon. Ashleigh called over on

way home from work – we did a goody bag for her of wine fudge etc. Spoke to Max early evening - they

are struggling Ieuan our 10 year old grandson with autism has had a particularly difficult day.

Thursday April 2nd

Up soon after 6 lovely bird song. Beginning to lose patience with government regarding capacity for testing.

Seems very few done of front line staff- Lianne and Mason were never done. This seems all to lack

transparency. Forwarded our concerns re Imagine to our MP and a travel journalist. Also problems with

refund from Cheltenham – they say they have sent it and we haven’t received it. All very frustrating. Did

pilates and tai chi. Nice walk in the afternoon – viewed both reservoirs. Spoke to Max – better day today –

guess it will be up and down. Nice meal from slow cooker. NHS applause well supported in our bit of the

road. Watched Stranger on Netflix which everyone recommends.

Friday April 3rd

Woke just after 6 – very vivid dream re planes and children – wonder what that means. Out early on my

own to Waitrose – worked well. Researched complaining to ABTA re Imagine. Walked in the afternoon –

keep finding new fields to explore each time we walk. Chatted to our next-door neighbours out doing some

gardening. Introduced ourselves to Hayley and her daughter Bethan. Hayley lives around the corner alone

and we have chatted with her each time we have passed. Good chat with Max on Facetime – he had

enjoyed a not the pub quiz on Zoom and had a good laugh. Tele in the evening as usual.

Saturday April 4th

Up soon after 6 but always been a morning person. Long chat with Ashleigh – she is OK but worrying about

her daughter and our niece Lianne. Li has to go in to work next as a phlebotomist on Covid wards at the

Hospital. She has been promised good protection but you can’t help but worry. Baked cake – lots of

concern on news that folks will go out as weather forecast if good. Some banter with Betty regarding

choosing horses for the virtual grand national. Didn’t walk in fields as we suspected it might be busy –

walked by stream which was fine – lots of spring buds. Virtual grand national was great –we really enjoyed

it and Betty won! Curry and tv in the evening – enjoying the Pilgrimage in Bulgaria our second home.

Sunday April 5th

A beautiful sunny morning for Palm Sunday. Had a quick look at our local chapel worship online, reassuring

to see. Rang Lisa who is having gall stones problems so not feeling well. Did our usual walk in the

afternoon and had an unpleasant experience with joggers. When I suggested they run single file past me

on a narrowish path they accused me of being rude to them and told me to calm down. Quite upsetting.

Watched the queen’s broadcast which I think will help some and gives us a sense of a community pulling

together. Got news in the evening that Boris the PM has been hospitalised.

Monday April 6th

Caught up on some admin managed to cancel a direct debit online move some money around and lodge

complaint against Imagine Cruising online with Citizens Advice. Popped out to Dwyn’s to buy an incinerator

for Max’s garden, shears and other bits. Small local hardware shop quite busy and not easy for Bob to

social distance. Another lovely walk in the afternoon and warm enough to sit in the garden on our return.

Cooked a curry and chatted to Ashleigh. Got shocking news that Boris the PM has been admitted to

intensive care. It feels very unsettling and proves the virus is indiscriminate. Went to bed hoping for better

news on the morning.

Tuesday April 7th

Awake quite early beautiful full moon when I opened the curtains. Bob out to Waitrose early. No change in

Boris’ condition – and not on a ventilator as yet. This is the day we should have flown to Japan spent quite

a lot of the day thinking where we should have been but for the virus. Delivered milk to our friend /

neighbour Mavis and chatted on drive. Long chat to neighbour’s son who had just bought a property in

France and had hoped to visit over Easter. Usual lovely Spring walk. Warm enough now to sit in garden on

return. Shared lovely old family videos with Max and Penelope.

Wednesday April 8th

Did some admin and baked another cake and cut Bob’s hair. Feel we are sinking into something of a daily

routine which feels manageable. Bob cut my hair. We had quite a laugh, but it turned out OK. Good

response from our credit card company about possibly claiming back our holiday refund from them. Walked

to village and posted letters in the afternoon. Walked some local streets I had never seen before. Feels like

too many van drivers around! Max called in afternoon with Ieuan – lovely to see him. Had daily chat with

Ashleigh in evening.

Thursday April 9th

Awake 5.15 but listened to my ‘Wake up to Money’ programme in bed. Went out to Waitrose earlier than

originally planned to avoid bank holiday rush. Still busy but got everything except frozen veg and flour.

Lovely memories in holiday diaries this morning. Two years ago we were in New Orleans. Started virtual

trip around Japan. Feels quite good to know we would have missed cherry blossom season which is over in

Tokyo. Watched great Youtube video of the Harajuku district of Tokyo. Amazing shops I would have spent

a fortune there on family. Clapping NHS felt particularly uplifting with news that Boris is out of ICU.

Friday April 10th

Good Friday and another beautiful morning. Did some cleaning first thing. Over coffee continued our virtual

tour of Japan visiting Mount Fuji and the nearby lakes which looked particularly beautiful. Also checked out

the bullet train which we would have ridden. Lovely to have the opportunity to explore all this on youtube on

our newish smart TV. Chatted to Nancy early evening. I am beginning to wonder how hard it will be to ramp

up our lifestyle again to being busy. Watched Royal Opera House streaming of ‘Cosi Fan Tutte’ in the

evening, lovely.

Saturday April 11th

Up at 6.45 another lovely morning. Checked out Yokohama and Queen Elizabeth cruise ship first thing as

we should have been boarding her today. Felt quite bittersweet not being able to go and we are both

feeling that we don’t want to give up on the idea of visiting Japan. Max and Josh called over early afternoon

and we had a long chat at distance on the front lawn. Josh has decided he wants to be a Police Officer

having watched lots of US cop shows. Spent a lot of the day following cricket from last year’s Headingley

Ashes test. Walked in field listening to Ben Stokes fantastic innings.

Sunday April 12th

Woke 5.15 and up an hour later. A beautiful dawn on this unusual Easter Day. The news seemed

particularly depressing so started the day listening to Easter music from Kings. Easter music is particularly

beautiful and uplifting and the weather is particularly stunning. A year ago today we travelled to Florida with

the family so will have two weeks of lovely memories to remember. So glad our trip was last year. Did an

early walk in fields to avoid crowds. It was beautiful and saw geese in flight. Checked out the Chapel

service online and had communion – Hovis and sherry – very unusual and never to be forgotten. Lots of

exchanging of messages with friends which was lovely. Boris out of hospital and going to Chequers. TV

and chocolate PM.

Monday April 13th

Had quite a lie in not up until 7.30. Slow start to the day on Easter Bank holiday Monday. Did bit of

computer admin. Got upset by post on Facebook by friend /acquaintance. Jokes that relate to going into

hospital really upset me with 5 close family on frontline. Pointed this out on FB which didn’t go down well.

Accused of not having a sense of humour etc etc but I hope pointing this out is not appropriate impacts

some. It all got me quite churned up. Blocked Ellen on FB as don’t want this to continue. On the upside did

singing of Welsh National Anthem, not any out but met a couple of new neighbours.

Tuesday April 14th

Not up until 7 John up before me 2 mornings in a row which is unheard of. Sleeping well at present our new

mattress probably helps. Bob out to Waitrose. Max called over early to collect school work we had printed

off for Ieuan. Ordered flowers online for Eloise’s 60th. Much nicer day on FB – lots of lovely videos of sing

for Wales which had taken place the night before. Liked one from Western Australia where we should be in

December and thrilled to get a response back. Walked to Post Office in afternoon. Did Governor’s Zoom

meeting for Finance group all worked well.

Wednesday April 15th

Up before 7 news quite depressing this morning with reports of lots of deaths in care homes. Made some

cakes and did tai chi. Caught up with holiday diaries and watched videos of Jeju Island in south Korea were

we should have been. Did lamb meal in slow cooker and did longish walk. Did a circular route that brough t

us back past the stream. Good to do new route of almost two and half miles. Good chat with Max and

family on Whatsapp spoke to Ashleigh who seemed a bit more low this evening.

Thursday April 16th

Out early to shop at Waitrose – did usual washing down of shopping. Feeling quite inspired by Captain Tom

who has raised 12 million plus for the NHS by walking in his garden. Got quite emotional and then even

more upset by Ashleigh’s message on Facebook saying she is struggling. Lots of bad news stories in the

hospital. Spoke to Ashleigh late morning who has been inundated with messages and calls of support

which is lovely. Had a lovely hour with Wendy and Alex early evening – chatted over drinks and nibbles on

Facetime. Lovely to catch up. Eight PM clap for carers again well supported – good chat with neighbours at

distance.

Friday April 17th

Early message on facebook to Eloise celebrating her 60th birthday. This would have been my Dad’s 91st

birthday. This is a particularly difficult time for several of my friends who have parents in care homes and

can’t have any direct contact. First damp day in weeks. Weather has been amazing for stage 1 of

lockdown. Into our second three weeks now. Did a good aerobics class. Visited Myazaki on our virtual tour

of Japan. Had along read early afternoon finishing my novel. Chatted to Max online – he is going to start

doing some work checking out vulnerable children in Cardiff. Walked in the rain late afternoon.

Saturday April 18th

Lazy start to the day still grey and damp. Watched some of the programme I recorded about Frank Sinatra.

Have decided to dig out our vinyl and an old record player we have and revisit them. Poor Max got bad

news late morning – got declined on his remortgaging when led to believe it would be a formality. He feels

quite down about it and indicative of how the banks are reluctant to lend at present and are tightening up.

Doesn’t seem to make sense as he and his wife earn £50K + and are not allowed to up mortgage from £85

to £120K. Nice Zoom meeting with friends to mark Eloise’s 60th. Did something never done before and

binge watched The Stranger on Netflix until midnight.

Sunday April 19th

Up at 7 – Bob laid in a bit. Vinyl and record player a great success. Did chores listening to Frank Sinatra

from the Sands – Bob bought it for me before we were married ie over 50 years ago. Family called over in

the afternoon. Josh and I had a short walk in the field at distance. Feel very proud of how he is coping as a

thirteen year old. He is doing about 2 hours of work a day but talking of upping it. Max struggling with his

feet and needs to contact a doctor but reluctant. Bob and I did field walk. Played scrabble – I won. Cooked

chicken roast dinner and watched some of the music event on TV. Have downloaded Captain Tom’s song.

Monday April 20th

Up at 6.30 lovely bright morning. Bob out for early Waitrose shop. Did tai chi. Visited Tokyo on our virtual

tour. Today is the day our ship should have got back to the city. Lovely videos watched. Walked in our local

fields in warm sunshine. Max reported Josh had had a more difficult day very up and down emotionally. I

am worrying on different fronts for the family with Lianne our phlebotomist niece being fitted for more PPE

for work on intensive care. Penelope working for a couple of days at her school hub. Enjoyed final of

University Challenge – I did quite well.

Tuesday April 21st

Up at 7.15 on another lovely sunny morning. Both did a 30 minute aerobic class that was very good. Very

pleased to say we are both keeping fit during lockdown. Lovely virtual tour to Kamakura in Japan. If we do

get to visit some time think we would like to go in the autumn. Walked in the afternoon and picked up some

shopping at Aldi. Nice time in garden at end of day and planted fig tree. Spoke to Max and Penelope her

day in work has gone OK. Bit worried re Max who seems quite lethargic though keeping busy with work.

Chilli and Tv in the evening.

Wednesday April 22nd

Up at 6.45 another lovely morning. Weather has been fantastic. Watched our final day of videos of Japan.

Walked in the local fields. Did facetime with friends Alison and Ian who have adjusted surprisingly well to

lockdown. I think expectation of a new grandchild due in June is helping. I found Chris Whitty’s news

particularly depressing that this may go on for a very long time. Feeling quite cheated of all the lovely

travelling we had scheduled for this year. As Bob says time is not on our side to delay travel plans and stay

home. Probably the most down I have felt.

Thursday April 23rd

Up and out early for my Waitrose shop. No flour so having to ration Ieuan’s cakes. Lovely chat with young

guy on checkout who is missing out on “a summer of a lifetime” – 2 festivals booked and related travel.

Said big thank you to him. Feel better this morning – fab day – did morning walk as predicted to be hot this

afternoon. Not quite as warm in the afternoon as promised but able to spend time in the garden sorting pots

and playing scrabble. Close game but I won again. Lovely chat with family for 45 minutes. Max looking –

better hair gelled and dressed up as did some vulnerable children in visits in the afternoon. Excellent

turnout for clapping the NHS. Donated on TV charity night and listened to Mike Ward’s radio broadcast.

Friday April 24th

Another lovely morning. Very sad to read a Welsh friend from Bulgaria’s (Jennifer) tribute on facebook to

her nephew whose funeral was yesterday. He was in his fifties and died from Covid. Funerals are very

difficult at this time as only close family can attend although for Jennifer’s nephew people had lined the

route and applauded near Mynydd. He later featured on the Welsh news in a tribute to Welsh victims as he

was Head of Leisure services in Twyni. Nice long chat with family on whatsapp late morning. Another lovely

walk. Bob and I have been part of a research project by Kings College London reporting health every day.

Listened to their webinar in the afternoon re latest news when they mentioned skin rashes as a possible

symptom of Covid. I have some spots on arms and legs so something to watch and keep an eye on.

Saturday April 25th

Up at 6.45 no need for heating. News more positive regarding things getting started again. Suggesting

premier league might start behind closed doors – need Liverpool crowned as champions! Lots of chats with

family throughout the day. Talked to Ashleigh quite a few times. Although she lives alone in a flat she has a

balcony overlooking a park and lots of people stop and chat with her as they go by. Max and Pen

appreciate some relaxation of restrictions for families with autistic children. Ashleigh reports that the Police

were evident in her park moving people on, on another sunny day.

Sunday April 26th

Up just before 7. As always I enjoy a bright slow start to the day. Checked out Wordsworth poem On

Westminster bridge which I heard someone read on the radio and which seems to reflect current times. My

new record player was delivered which all worked very efficiently. Walked 2.6 miles in the afternoon to

mark what should have been the day of the London marathon. TV highlight in the evening was the end of

“Race to the End of the World” which went to Ushuaia in South America. We were lucky enough to visit

there on boxing day 2019.

Monday April 27th

Up before 6.30 as Bob out shopping to Waitrose. Had virtual consultation with GP as I have a skin problem.

He prescribed topical creams and does not think it’s the sort of rash linked to Covid. Quite a sociable day.

Ashleigh called over after work as she has managed to get me some flour – chatted to her on drive. Good

to see her after several weeks although we talk every day. Max and Josh called over late afternoon and

Josh did an hour’s training in our garden. We sat in the conservatory and were impressed by how well he

did.

Tuesday April 28th

First morning in weeks that we have woken to the sound of rain. Time for inside jobs. Unpacked new record

player and did set up in lounge. Looks great. Did 30 minutes aerobics class on YouTube – a good workout.

Read book on kindle after lunch written by one of my friends from David Lloyd gym. It has proved to be a

fascinating account of her life in Iraq married to an Iraqi. Popped to chemist to collect skin creams. Did walk

late afternoon but very brief as still wet. Usual TV in the evening.

Wednesday April 29th

Up at 6.45 with usual slow start to the day. BBC TV news and catch up on the phone. Baked a cake in the

morning and Bob had another go at trimming my hair – not a bad job. Chatted to GP in the afternoon as still

having some waterworks problems. Delivered sample to surgery which was rather like Fort Knox but all

worked well and sample clear. Watched various quiz shows in the evening and Paul Hollywood’s cooking

tour of Japan. Chatted to Ashleigh, Alisha our great niece has been crying as is worried her Mum and

Grandma might die from the virus.

Thursday April 30th

Up before 6.30 and out for Waitrose shop in the rain. Got most things and then watched amazing fly past

on TV to celebrate Captain Tom’s 100th birthday. He is very inspiring and a national treasure at this time.

Walked and popped to pharmacy to pick up various medications. John did Governor Finance meeting

online. Max and Ieuan called over to pick up latest cake. Quite chilly chatting on drive. Ashleigh phoned to

say she has had a fall and damaged her left wrist. Will decide in the morning if she will need an X ray but

will be off work. Out for clapping and happy birthday Captain Tom.

May 2020

Friday May 1st

Another new month. A lovely sunny morning. Spent part of the morning working on setting up our Zoom

group for the quiz we are running with friends on Saturday evening. Will have to see how it goes. Ashleigh

did need to go for an X ray on her wrist. Not broken thank goodness bit it is really hampering her and what

she can do. Did some cooking in the afternoon and a nice walk. A big treat at 5.30 Amser jazz time was

broadcast for 90 minutes from College of Music and Drama. We go every week with friends in normal times

so this was lovely.

Saturday May 2nd

Up before 7 to another lovely bright morning. Thrilled by news that TMS are going to broadcast lots of old

cricket matches during May. Listened to women’s world cup cricket final while I made a stack of pancakes

for family consumption served with ice-cream and strawberries at distance in the garden. They were able to

come down the side of the house. Highlight of the evening was the zoom group we organised for our Class

of 69, group of friends. Everyone looked well and we all managed to get zoom to work. Really did feel like

the new normal and good fun.

Sunday May 3rd

Good sleep but up early before 6.30. spent majority of the day housebound as we were expecting delivery

of a birthday present parcel for Josh which actually never arrived. Watched Mark Drakeford on Andrew

Marr – we really appreciate his lack of spin and honesty. Such a principled man who we can trust.

Possibility floated that Ieuan might go into school this term which would ease transition for him. Walked

separately in the afternoon on a cooler day. Bob won scrabble so we are two all. Enjoyed final episode of

Race Across the World.

Monday May 4th

Up with alarm for 6.30 as Bob out for golden hour shopping. He says there was less door security and folks

seemed to be settling into the new normal. He went wearing our homemade mask and also took mask for

blood test appointment at GP. Drove to visit Ashleigh in the afternoon in Parc Tyr. It’s about 5 miles across

the city and is the furthest we’ve gone in weeks. Didn’t go into Ashleigh’s but walked at distance in Talwg

Nant. Important to give her moral support with her damaged wrist. Out to sing the Welsh national anthem at

8.00pm but we were the only ones out in our road.

Tuesday May 5th

Up at 7.00 and did some admin early by phone regarding savings accounts. Very straightforward. Lots of

chats regarding easing the lockdown on the news. Did some tai chi and at 11.00 played crib with Henry and

Nancy in Australia. It worked surprisingly well with each of us having half of a pack of cards. Lovely to

spend time with them in this way. They feel Australia is very lucky with only 95 deaths where we have over

30,000. Walked in the afternoon. Had a zoom chat over drinks with friends who live in Sussex and lovely to

catch up. Chatted to Ashleigh several times as her daughter Lianne had a bump in her car which had upset

Ash although Li is OK.

Wednesday May 6th

Up before 7.00 and caught up with various admin and stuff on phone. Listened to PMQ’s, first time Boris

had faced Keir Starmer the new Labour leader of the opposition. It was pure joy to hear such a clever man

hold Boris to account. Did our longish walk in the afternoon 2and half mile loop. Popped into Mavis’ for a

distance chat in the garden. Max and Josh popped over in the evening for Josh’s one hour training session.

It’s quite hard and he did really well. Chatted to Ashleigh in the evening, it sounded like she’d had a few

wines.

Thursday May 7th

Up before 6.30 for Waitrose shop. Lovely morning and even got self-raising flour which was the first time in

months. Washed down shopping listening to my World War 2 playlist for tomorrows VE day garden party.

Did tai chi and messaged Nancy regarding an online get together on the weekend. She sounded

particularly down and it was clear lockdown was getting her down. I guess we all have good and bad days.

Enjoying another good book which really helps in lockdown. Did finance meeting for governing body which

worked well on Zoom. Out for clapping at 8.00pm had lovely usual chat with family next door.

Friday May 8th

Up soon after 6.00 on the Friday Bank holiday to mark VE day. This unique time certainly resonates with

the war time experiences of the 1940’s. Baked some cupcakes for our afternoon tea. Did an early afternoon

walk and saw evidence of other tea parties getting together. Set up our tea party on the front lawn which I

am lucky enough to have. Lovely that the family next door did the same and 11 year old Summer played

our World War 2 songs via her speaker. Lovely few hours which included dancing on the drive. Joined by

friend Mavis and Rebecca’s parents so had a real party feel. Pictionary on Zoom in the evening and then

out on our own to the street to sing and dance to “We’ll Meet Again”. Watched Dad’s Army film.

Saturday May 9th

Up just before 7 to a lovely sunny morning. Lovely memories of get together yesterday and have left

bunting up for the time being. Family did garden visit late morning and enjoyed my pancakes in the

sunshine again. After lunch we watched the old movie Battle of the River Plate as it is set in Uruguay which

we visited last year. Walked late afternoon – lovely temperature for walking. Lovely to sit in garden

afterwards with cricket from TMS archives. Had drinks for one and a half with Kimberley and Jim. Lovely to

catch up and they were brighter than we thought they might be. Yesterday distance celebrations seemed to

have raised spirits.

Sunday May 10th

Awake soon after 5.30 noisy birds up at 6.15. Another lovely bright start to the day. Went out for an early

walk as its forecast to cool off later. We featured on twitter as filmed a video for Max in relation to a virtual

cricket tournament where games are decided by a toss of a coin. All good fun and Max’s team in last 32.

Ashleigh called over with card for Josh. We followed TMS archive cricket on the radio in the afternoon.

Lovely memories of 2005 Ashes. Watched Boris Johnson broadcast to the nation at 7.00pm. It really seems

to have raised more questions than answers and there is evidence of separation of policies between

England and the rest of the UK.

Monday May 11th

Up before 6.30 for Bob’s trip to Waitrose. The news is preoccupied with slight changes that Boris has

introduced. Stay home has been dropped for stay alert but there is a lot of uncertainty regarding new

measures. As the day proceeded there appeared to be increasing confusion. Ministers even went on air

and gave the wrong advice and corrections had to be made officially. The major problem is that Boris has

said residents in England can travel as far as they want to meet family or friends in open spaces but Wales

is still on the stay home message. Social media is awash with the message that Wales is closed which

sadly can only contribute to social division.

Tuesday May 12th

Up soon after 6.00 on Josh’s 14th birthday. Another bright but cool morning. Boris has set out something of

a roadmap for opening up society in England including phased return to school. I guess this will put

pressure on the Welsh government to do similar. Played crib with Henry and Nancy in Australia. They are

really opening up there but are in very different circumstances to us. Family visited our garden late

afternoon to celebrate Josh’s birthday. He was thrilled with his birthday present, a laptop, which we think he

will need for schoolwork going forward. He chose one and we will order.

Wednesday May 13th

Up at 6.15. Still quite cool so heating on. Lots of news on media regarding relaxing of restrictions in

England. Heavy traffic into London and full buses. Quite a risk so we will need to see how it goes. Quite

good to observe from Wales in what feels like our more secure situation. Drove to the pub about 3 miles

away just after 9.00 for our first walk in the countryside for weeks. Our climb up the hill was quiet with just a

few other walkers. Lovely to be out in nature. The wildflowers are beautiful and we even saw bluebells.

Chilled for rest of day and finished very good book.

Thursday May 14th

Up at 6.15 for early shopping. Beautiful bright morning but quite chilly for mid May. Did some admin by

phone. Rang DWP and all worked very efficiently. We walked separately today as waiting for delivery of

parcel which arrived mid afternoon. Had a nice get together on Zoom with Alex and Wendy and chatted to

Max at distance in the garden while Josh did football training. Max at a bit of a low point finding it hard to

juggle increasing work commitments and home schooling. Nice chat at NHS clapping.

Friday May 15th

My 69th birthday. As is often the case it’s a lovely day weather wise. Lovely early contact with family and

friends by facebook, whatsapp, facetime and telephone. Did tai chi and had lovely walk in our local fields.

Smoked salmon sandwiches for lunch and visits in garden in afternoon from Ashleigh, and Max, Penelope

and grandsons. Spoilt with flowers, prosecco and a DVD I had asked for. Also had lovely flowers from next

door neighbours who we have got increasing close to during lockdown. Lovely special dinner in evening.

Saturday May 16th

Up at 6.45. Lots of thank- yous from me on social media as lots of people had helped make yesterday a

special day for me. Evidence of confusing messages in England regarding stay home. Residents given

green light to go out, but beauty spots pleading for them not to come. By end of the day it was clear that

folk had mostly acted sensibly and places weren’t overwhelmed. Played crib online with Kimberley and Jim

in Rhonddaglyn which went well. Thrilled to hear that Max’s cricket team had won the toss of a coin cricket

match and are now in the last 16. Watched birthday DVD in the evening.

Sunday May 17th

Had lie in and not up until nearly 8am. Made a cake and thrilled to have TMs archive commentary on radio

from last year’s world cup. The Covid narrative increasingly seems to be that this will all continue for a very

long time. References to no vaccine is quite hard to hear and hard to accept severe limitations to life going

forward. Did our usual daily walk early afternoon. Quite busy on a Sunday afternoon but everyone is

sensible re distancing. Zoom meeting with friends in Sussex. They are ahead of us in opening up and Bob

has played golf.

Monday May 18th

Up at 6.30 for early shop. Bit of faffing around for face covering for Bob. Went back to making a mask from

old socks which worked OK. The media is full of anxiety regarding children going back to school in England

from June 1st. It feels like we’ve got it right in Wales moving more slowly and keeping teachers on board but

I do feel there needs to be some partial opening up pre summer holidays. Max went to Doctors for blood

test as foot still playing up so hoping for good news on that. Played categories online with class 69 which

was good fun.

Tuesday May 19th

Not up until nearly 8 which is most unusual. Have felt quite down on the last couple of mornings which

seems to relate to uncertainty to how long this will all drag on for. Talk of living with it for years feels quite

depressing. So lucky to have a partner to share it with. Dread fact that this might drag onto Autumn/Winter

which would be especially hard. Enjoyed crib with Henry and Nancy in Australia and evidence that it’s

definitely opening up there. Popped to Wendy’s garden with birthday present. Walked in Celtaidd Park for

the first time in 2 months but it felt too busy. Nice chat with Max and neighbours pm.

Wednesday May 20th

Up at 6.45 to another lovely bright morning. Bob and I popped out to shop at ASDA. We couldn’t get the

vitamins we went for but OK with other provisions. I feel happier with the golden hour at Waitrose. ASDA

felt like going out into the big dangerous world as did Celtaidd yesterday. Can see this might be an issue

going forward, ie anxiety going further afield. Spent lovely couple of hours in the garden in the afternoon

playing scrabble and listening to TMS archive cricket. Walked late afternoon in lovely barmy temperatures.

Watched excellent free movie (The Good Liar) from Lloyds Bank.

Thursday May 21st

Up early for Waitrose shop. Wore new mask (birthday present) but not great too loose and needs attention.

No frozen veg in Waitrose for first time. Hope that’s only a freezer problem and not a shortage. Did lots of

catching up reading holiday diaries. We would often have been away at this time in Bulgaria, Corfu and a

really precious time last year walking the Camino in Northern Spain, such lovely memories. Did a very nice

walk in our local fields and played crib with friends in Penytyr which we eventually got to work on zoom.

More fun on twitter account, including a video message from Geraint Thomas. More NHS clapping at 8pm.

Friday May 22nd

Up at 6.45 on a warm but windy morning. Bob slept in until 8. We drove to Ty Mawr pub car-park about 3

miles away and did one of our favourite walks to the Ridgeway. The wild flowers are beautiful and a real joy

as were some of the animals, horse, bulls and black and white sheep. Lovely chat to a postman on his rural

round. Very windy day but loved our walk, it felt quite normal. Great fun in the evening with our son Max’s

cricket team. We were part of the Zoom group for the coin toss and thrilled that they won and are down to

the last 8.

Saturday May 23rd

Up at 6.45 and both of us up by 7.30. Did some baking of cakes and typing up of diary. Lots of holiday

diaries to read at this time. Last year’s Camino with Henry and Nancy from Australia was a real highlight for

us so as well as reading our diaries we are following our pilgrimage walk on Youtube. Watched lovely video

of the walk from Puente de Reine. Enjoyed the England v Wales rugby on TV in the afternoon from the

grand slam win in 2008. Had usual daily chat with Ashleigh. Watched the movies Spotlight in the evening, a

really good film that rightly won an Oscar.

Sunday May 24th

Up at 7am and had a good slow start to the day on a lovely bright morning. Went for an early walk in the

field. Josh came for football practice but was very de-motivated, he could just not get into it so Max his Dad

gave up after 10 minutes. Josh has had a difficult few days getting very frustrated with a few things so Max

left him in our garden for an hour which allowed him to talk things through with his granddad. Hope that has

helped but this is such a difficult time for a teenager. Some opening up seems essential. Got together with

Kimberley and Jim late afternoon playing crib.

Monday May 25th

Up before for Bob;s shop at Waitrose. A bit later this morning as it’s the Bank holiday and they open at 8.

Media full of Dominic Cumming’s breaking of lockdown. Boris’ defence of him seems completely

unsatisfactory and has really challenged trust in the Government. Popped to Lianne’s garden with a present

for our 7 year old great nephew Mason, all at distance. Lovely walk on way back in local wood which is a

real find. Back to watch Dominic Cummings live statement and questions. Real political theatre and

unprecedented. I felt slightly more sympathetic to his position but this has all been mishandled. Fab

evening dooing a Zoom murder mystery with friends and I did it!

Tuesday May 26th

Up before 7 on a lovely sunny warm morning. The weather has been really kind to us. Bob went out for a

walk / run the first in a long time. We opened some Rioja red wine at 10.30 am which felt like being on

holiday. Got together for crib at 11 am with Henry and Nancy in Australia. The red wine and tapas was to

mark the fact that it was a year to the day when we were walking the Camino together, fabulous memories.

Did daily walk mid afternoon. Went shopping at Aldi 8.45 pm because we thought it might be quie t and it

was. Realised we hadn’t been out in the car in the evening in months.

Wednesday May 27th

Up just before 7 to another beautiful morning. Had little walk in the garden first thing. Beaches in England

very overcrowded. Lots of challenges for RNLI who I work for as a volunteer. We have not got the freedoms

they have in England and the differences are beginning to feel rather stark. Did our weekly walk to the

Bridge. A beautiful morning and more walkers in evidence but easy to distance. Played scrabble in the

garden in the afternoon and followed TMS archive cricket. Chatted to friends in Sussex on Zoom. Out at

9.30 pm to look for the space station but too light. Back out at 11pm and saw it clearly along with

neighbours.

Thursday May 28th

Up at 6.15 for early shop. Weather is stunning. Shopping straight forward with new mask a birthday gift

from my niece Patricia. Did tai chi and ordered cricket book for Bob. Lots of holiday diaries to read at coffee

as we are very often away at this time. Walked in local woods after lunch in lovely shade on a warm day.

Children playing in streams feels like going back to my own childhood. Cards with friends in Pont. After

dinner out for 8pm NHS clap. This is the tenth and suggested it should be the last but we will miss it.

Neighbours have lent us a 2 man tent as Josh might stay.

Friday May 29th

Up at 6.45 on another beautiful May morning. Weather has been unbelievable and reported that this has

been the sunniest May on record which has been a real blessing. Drove a couple of miles and parked at a

local lake. Accessed a coastal path nearby which took us to the sea wall. Fantastic views of the channel,

over to Pentarth and the West country which is a lovely find. News from Welsh Government on relaxing of

shutdown but disappointing nothing specific on schools. Josh came and stayed in a tent in our garden as

they needed some space from each other. Bob lit garden fire all lovely.

Saturday May 30th

Up just before 6.30. Lovely to have Josh asleep in a tent in our garden. Family really needed some space

from each other and it seems to have worked well. He woke at 8 and I cooked bacon sandwiches which we

ate in the garden. Mum and Dad picked him up soon after 10. We had a lovely walk in the afternoon in the

Nant Tyr woods and it was lovely to have shade on a warm day. Collected some wood in the woods. Bob

did another fire in the garden early evening and we had dinner outside. Cricket book parcel delivered just

after 8 so working late for a Saturday night.

Sunday May 31st

Up around 7.30 and went for a walk in the field early. Bumped into friends who we hadn’t seen for several

months. Agreed that we should meet up in our garden next week which we will arrange over email. Back

home for coffee and the cricket world cup final on TMS. Baked a cake and popped to Max and Penelope’s

in the afternoon with the sponge cake and other goodies. Lovely that friends of theirs had called in and

were enjoying some social time on their front at social distance. At home played cards with Kim and Jim.

Her 93 year old Mum fell a couple of days ago and broke her hip which was sorted with surgery quickly.

June 2020

June 1st Monday

Another month. May has seemed very long but we are keeping increasingly busy, Bob out to Waitrose. I

wrote to Kirsty Williams the Education AM regarding prioritising getting Year 6 pupils into school to ease

transition. Bob back from Waitrose with sad news. He met an old cricket friend of ours whose wife had died

in March. Very sad and he told Bob he was feeling very lonely. She had cancer so not sure if it was Covid

but the situation regarding funerals makes it very difficult. Went to Celtaidd Park with 2 fold up seats and

met a friend of ours. Sat together in the park and chatted for over an hour. Walked in our field in th e

afternoon and very warm.

June 2nd Tuesday

Up soon after 6. This might be the last of very warm days so we will make the most of it. Quite a stressful

hour talking to our credit card company regarding the refund of the £11K we have paid for our cruise. We

are still waiting for money from a February cancellation and now they are not even sure if they have

received our postal application sent in April! Did some tai chi which helps with stress. Ashleigh called in and

sat in garden after lunch. Walked in wood and bumped into an old friend. Listened to Mark Drakeford’s Q

and A on social media. Disappointed again nothing on schools. Did quiz with Class of 69 which was good

fun.

June 3rd Wednesday

Up around 6.45 to the first grey damp morning in weeks. A day for inside jobs. As stuck inside did tai chi

again. 2 days running seemed to work well as felt particularly supple. Listened with eager anticipation to

Kirsty Williams the Education Minister. Thrilled that she is opening schools for all pupils at the end of the

month on a part time basis. This will mean a very busy time for my Federation and there was a flurry of

activity on Whatsapp setting up a Governor’s meeting for the middle of the month. Chatted to Ashleigh

early evening and popped out to late shopping at ASDA which worked well as quite quiet. Bed around

11.15.

June 4th Thursday

Up just before 6.30 for early Waitrose shop. Felt quite sleepy this morning as latish night for us and early

morning start. My Mum very much in my thoughts today as this would have been her 89th birthday. Miss her

loads but would not have wanted to be separated from her at this time as so many of my close friends are

experiencing with elderly parents. Went to Mum’s grave with flowers from the garden and my bouquet. Did

a walk in the cemetery and found some amazing graves including war graves just a couple of 100 yards

from my family grave. Walked at 8 and clapped with ladies on the hill.

June 5th Friday

Up just before 7 on our son Max’s 41st birthday. Lovely long chat with family on facetime. Packed Max’s

presents listening to a unique Desert Island Discs where listeners had contributed their lockdown choices. I

had sent in America by Simon and Garfunkel but didn’t expect it to be played. Made curries for Max and

family to enjoy for his birthday dinner. They called over late afternoon and we enjoyed cake and prosecco

in the garden. Lovely to look together at Max’s life story book. Josh took a particular interest. Walked late

afternoon and also enjoyed some curry.

June 6th Saturday

Up soon after 6. Went for a walk early to the Bridge as the weather is forecast to deteriorate later. We really

appreciate getting out into nature, loving the hedgerows and got to see a pheasant this morning. Watched

some live sport in the afternoon – snooker, horse racing and enjoyed more archive cricket on the radio.

Had long chat to Sandy an old family friend who is in her early 80’s. Sadly her younger brother died very

suddenly the day before. Death is very difficult to deal with at present as so few can attend funerals.

June 7th Sunday

Up at 6.45 on another lovely sunny morning. Did some computer admin and made some fairy cakes for us.

Enjoyed listening to Martin James on Desert Island Discs. Followed archive cricket commentary during the

day. The news is preoccupied with protests in the UK related to the death of George Floyd, a black man

killed by the police in the USA. Lots of young people are involved in the protests and I can’t help but think

that a lot of this is an outlet for much pent up anger. Bit of a medical emergency for us at the end of the

day. Our daughter in law Penelope had an allergic reaction to a wasp sting and had to go into A&E but was

dealt with quickly.

June 8th Monday

Up at 6.30 for early shopping. Bob out early. Sorted shopping and then out early walking as rain forecast

later. Called to see Penelope and delivered flowers. She feels rather washed out but is doing OK. All rather

frightening as her temperature was rather high. Drove to our walk to the seawall. We absolutely love the 1

mile walk down to the sea. It’s like a nature reserve and we saw swans and coots with their young and a

beautiful heron. This has been a lovely find. It was high tide in the channel which was also beautiful. Busy

with governor business in the afternoon. My executive HT sent a detailed plan for opening which I read and

commented on. School looks very different and there is a huge amount of work involved.

June 9th Tuesday

Up just after 7. England have announced abandonment of their plans to reopen schools. It all seems

chaotic and I hope it doesn’t impact on Wales. Played cards with Henry and Nancy in Australia at 11.0am,

life really seems to be getting back to normal for them. Did a walk in our field. Expecting some rain over the

next couple of days so did it while we could. Shopping in ASDA late evening able to go together and got

everything we needed. Drove on motorway to for the first time in months.

June 10th Wednesday

Up just before 6.30. News that zoos are opening in England but not schools. I’m really disappointed

regarding the schools policy in England. We did our walk to the Bridge first thing. Lovely to chat to other

walkers. We have really appreciated getting out into nature during lockdown. We now watch Springwatch

and were thrilled to see a fledgling bird on our walk. Ashleigh rang and is thrilled to have good news

regarding her pension prediction. I rang Lisa who sounds very much better after a rough few weeks with

gallstone problems.

June 11th Thursday

Up before 6.30 for Waitrose shop all good. Washed shopping and then did tai chi. Lovely chat to Ashleigh

who has found a stash of old family postcards some dating back to WW1. Had an interesting afternoon as

did a 2 hour interview with an interviewer from Leeds University looking at the contribution of women in

Criminology. Used microsoft teams for the first time which worked well. Interesting to reflect on how my

criminology career evolved and developed. Caught up with Sue and Gary over cards and walked early

evening.

June 12th Friday

Up around 6.15. Getting used to having switched side of the bed I sleep on because of shoulder problems.

Financial situation looking quite worrying. Journalist on radio sounded depressed suggesting it was an

effort to even get her children dressed. I think the switch of school policy in England has been particularly

difficult. Went for a country walk early. Tried a different route and saw a pheasant in the hedgerow but

encountered some very aggressive dogs, gladly locked up. Did some more of my Governor online course

and a quiz with Class 69 in the evening.

June 13th Saturday

Up soon after 6.30. Spent a nice hour looking at European maps thinking about how we might drive to our

home in Bulgaria next year. Lovely chat on the phone with my aerobics teacher. Lovely to hear her voice

after so many months. Did some baking listening to archive cricket. Drove out in the afternoon in our

second car, which needed a run. Explored a different part of the seawall to the east of Cardiff. Popped to

Max & Pen’s to deliver goodies. Penelope feeling very down missing her parents and everyone feeling fed

up. Nice zoom chat early evening with Ben and Molly.

June 14th Sunday

Up just after 6.30 to a particularly wet morning. Thankfully the rain eased by 11 and we joined Max,

Penelope, and the boys for a walk around the lakes. It was a lovely spot and we did a couple of circuits of

the lake. I walked just with Penelope on the second circuit and it was good to catch up. She is in work as a

TA in the coming week, Monday to Wednesday and is quite looking forward to it. Home for lunch and Sky

TV coverage of the 2009 Ashes Test in Cardiff. Saw ourselves on TV and other friends, very nice.

Monday 15th June

Up at 6.30 for early shop. Sorted shopping quickly and out for a walk on the Bridge soon after 9.00. Lovely

as always and saw a small lizard on the road. Back home for coffee and got a telephone call from Mark, a

friend from Pentarth who had cycled to Celtaidd Park on his electric bike. Quite an achievement as he is

over 80. He called in for coffee in our garden. His wife died in March so it was good to have face to face

contact with him. Chilled out for the rest of the day. Usual daily phone calls with close family. Bob chatted to

his older sister in England who is running the village shop.

Tuesday 16th June

Up around 6.30. Very impressed with Marcus Rashford the footballer’s campaign to preserve free school

meals in England during the holidays. Spent some time reading papers for my Governing body. The level of

planning to achieve social distancing is immense. Hard to see how this can translate into going forward with

education in September. Walked in the nature reserve in the afternoon and popped to see Max’s football

coaching which he is doing in a local park with one other family. Good for Ieuan and the other child.

Wednesday 17th June

Up at 6.30 to a lovely bright morning. Good news on the medical front that a steroid drug has been

identified that helps those who are very sick with Covid and needing oxygen or a ventilator. Over coffee

joined the RNLI facebook page at Pentarth to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the re-opening of the

Lifeboat Station. A lovely occasion and I enjoyed connecting with my RNLI volunteer family. Watched some

Royal Ascot and walked by the stream. After 100 days premier league football came back behind closed

doors. Very moving to see players and the referee take the knee for Black Lives Matter.

Thursday 18th June

Up early to shop on a very wet morning. Shop quieter than usual. Got call from Imagine processing our

refund which will take a few days to come back. I’m sure it is only happening because of intervention by a

financial journalist from the Mail on Sunday who Harvey recommended to us. Very grateful for his help and

fingers crossed there will be no more issues. Quick walk locally as so wet. Did the ITV 7 for Royal Ascot

which kept us entertained in the afternoon in the rain. Played cards with Sue and Gary. Did governors on

Zoom early evening. Lots of sharing of plans for school opening. Hurrah!!

Friday June 19th

Up at 6.30. Still damp and rainy. Did some sorting for our garden party in the afternoon on Saturday.

Fingers crossed the rain will stop. Spent a lovely afternoon socialising in neighbour’s garden. They

provided a lovely lunch which we ate in their garden. This needs to be the way forward for socialising for us

for the near future. Walked early evening. Long chat to Max in the evening as Ieuan has his contact hours

for the return to school and he only has 2 hours in total. Very disappointing. Watched football in the

evening.

Saturday June 20th

Up at 7.30. Good news that our refund from Imagine has gone back on our credit card. Rang credit card

company very easily and arranged for it to be transferred back to our bank. Will have to wait a few days for

it to arrive. Enjoyed family get together in the garden in the afternoon. Moved TV into the garden and

Ashleigh, Lianne, Alisha and Penelope came for afternoon tea and betting between ourselves on Ascot

races. All good fun. After clearing up we walked late afternoon. Back for Bob to watch Crystal Palace beat

Bournemouth at football.

Sunday June 21st

Not up until 8. Lazy start to the day. Went out for a walk around Celtaidd Park mid morning. Back to watch

Cardiff City beat Leeds at 12 noon. Great that they won 2 nil particularly as its Father’s day. Max, Penelope

and the boys came to the garden in the afternoon with a present and card for Bob. Boys a bit fractious.

Josh in particular needs company of his own age so schools cannot open soon enough. Long chat with

Kimberley and Jim in the evening. Watched Liverpool Everton derby in the evening, rather dire nil nil.

Monday June 22nd

Up at 6.30 as Bob out for early shop. Another lovely bright morning which seems like proper summer has

come back. Did tai chi. Had long chat with Harvey who had been kind enough to put us in touch with the

Financial journalist who helped with our refund. Walked in the afternoon in the Park. Good to try

somewhere new and a lovely spot. Caught with Ashleigh and Max on the phone. Max disappointed that

Ieuan’s HT has provided no response to his email. Out to ASDA for late shopping. Customers not so good

on social distancing.

Tuesday June 23rd

Up at 6.30 to a lovely sunny morning. Defrosting our fridge for the first time in lockdown. It took mot of the

morning but we got there in the end. Cards cancelled with Australian pals as they are out to dinner which

sounds remarkably normal. Josh our 14 year old came and spent the afternoon in our garden. Very warm

but it was lovely to chat with him. Put up new tent we have bought which hopefully he can stay in on the

weekend. Did quiz with Class of 69 on zoom. Some hilarious moments but good fun.

Wednesday June 24th

Up at 7.15 to a lovely warm morning. Did Bridge hill walk early on a very hot day. Had friends round to our

garden in the afternoon. Needed shade but good to catch up. They have a caravan in Cornwall and are

very excited about being able to go to their van in about 10 days. It continued to be a very hot day. Most of

the evening was take up with Bob watching Liverpool v Crystal Palace which was a 4 nil win and chatting to

Max and Penelope regarding Ieuan’s position in relation to going back to school.

Thursday June 25th

Awake at 5 and up at 6 for early shopping on what is going to be a very hot day. Featured on the Radio

Wales phone in to Kirsty Williams (Education Minister) in the morning raising a point regarding schools

having different interpretations of opening up. Kirsty Williams confirmed it should be a minimum of 3

sessions while Ieuan our autistic grandson has only one 2 hour session in the whole 3 weeks. Ashleigh

called over to garden with her 2 grandchildren. It had been a difficult morning when they didn’t want to go to

the hub school. Popped to see Mavis a neighbour in the evening. Her Hub and has been diagnosed with

Alzheimer’s.

Friday June 26th

Up at 6.15 on our 49th wedding anniversary and Penelope our daughter in law’s 42nd birthday. Nice family

facetime first thing. Have booked airbnb in English seaside town for a week in the school holidays. Family

in a caravan nearby and it will be good to have some quality time together. Did quite a lot of online chores

which can be frustrating as we get a poor phone signal for mobiles in the house when getting OTPs. Did

short walk in the afternoon to post box. Had very nice afternoon tea in the garden with family. Boys can be

quite a strain as they argue a lot which is not easy for any of us. Caught up with TV in the evening.

Saturday June 27th

Up at 6.15 to a damp and then very wet day. Good decision not to let Josh camp in our garden last night

although he was disappointed. Chatted to Ashleigh, her daughter Lianne went shopping in town this

afternoon which seems a step too far for us at present. Treated ourselves to some online wine. The farmer

we have identified delivered some lamb burgers and stewing beef. We really appreciate supporting local

businesses. Walked in the nature reserve on a very windy day. Lovely watching the coots tending their

nest. Watched Man Utd win the cup game I was very sleepy in the evening.

Sunday June 28th

Up around 6.45. Still blustery. Early Facetime with Max, family relations still very strained and lockdown

easing can’t come soon enough. Chatted to Ashleigh about possibility of sharing time at caravan in

England next month. Walked up the hill in the afternoon and explored some different paths. A very windy

day and more folk about walking but lovely as usual. Got double booked for chats online so did first hour

with Sue and Stan and second hour with Kimberley and Jim. Roast dinner and Luminaries in the evening.

Monday June 29th

Awake at 5 and up at 6. Bob out for early shopping on a cool and blustery morning. Media giving attention

to schools opening in Wales. Very disappointed this is not the case for Ieuan’s primary. Wales online

coverage also very negative focussing on lack of safety. Lovely positive coverage on BBC News of my

Rainbow Federation schools opening. Saw lots of pupils and staff that I know. Thrilled with news from Mark

Drakeford that from next Monday we can bubble up with Max and family and meet up inside. Lovely to hear

Josh was thrilled to. Walked in Westbourne Road, close approach from homeless guy very unsettling.

Tuesday June 30th

One of our dearest and oldest friends is 70 today. We won’t see him as heis too far but we are hoping for a

celebratory lunch in their garden next week. Leicester is having to go back into lockdown as there is a spike

in cases. It’s difficult for local people but this has to be the new normal. Chatted to our Australian friends.

There are more spikes in Melbourne which is a concern for them. Walked at the lakes in the afternoon and

saw a 32lb carp caught in the lake. Listened to Cardiff City on the radio, nil nil draw so another point.

Popped to Aldi for late shopping.

July 2020

July 1st Wednesday

The last month seems to have gone by quite quickly. Another damp morning so doing quite a lot of in-

house admin first thing. Chatted to Liam Evans who we were due to spend Christmas with in Melbourne.

Started discussions with Trailfinders regarding the status of our Australian trip. We are clear we don’t want

to go for Christmas/ New Year this year. Josh first day back in school since March. Only in for 2 hours but

he enjoyed it. Chatted my cousin whose caravan in England we are borrowing. Organising our stay is quite

complicated as we have to provide the names of everyone staying for Track and Trace.

July 2nd Thursday

Woken by alarm at 6.30 which is unusual. Out for early shopping which was quieter than usual on a damp

morning. Bob trying to contact the Hundred cricket competition re refunds on tickets as competition

cancelled – not easy to sort. Did get sorted refund came very early and for various reasons we missed it!

Finished Robert Harris book about a post apocalypse world. Interesting but left quite open ended. Bob went

to Curry’s in the afternoon to sort a damaged screen which was very protracted but getting there. Saw class

of 69 in the evening and had lots of chat regarding who we are bubbling with.

July 3rd Friday

Up at 7 and did various bits of admin on the phone. Waked early and separately as rain is expected and a

wine delivery is due. Chatted to PCSO during walk. Came back and did tai chi. Watched Mark Drakeford’s

12.30 broadcast which confirmed the stay local advice stops on Monday. He was very scathing regarding

the Westminster government saying liaison had been a chaotic shambles. Also listened to his live chat on

twitter which was clear and useful. Max played golf in the pouring rain which was disappointing. Weather

disappointing at present. Watched a movie in the evening.

July 4th Saturday

Up at 6.30, still very damp. The media is full of the news that England is opening up pubs, holiday parks,

hairdressers etc. It is a risk and feels quite early. There were 137 deaths yesterday due to Covid. Will be

interesting to see how all this evolves. I guess it all comes down to how much risk individuals are willing to

take. Visited Harvey at distance with gifts of wine for putting us in touch with the financial journalist who

sorted our refund. Also visited my sister at distance and walked in Parc Tyr. The River is flowing fast after

lots of rain. Enjoyed watching another Cardiff City win.

July 5th Sunday

Woke to 19 whatsapp messages on my RNLI site. Thy had come in just before midnight and involved a lot

of banter between 2 older single members. I found it quite amusing but they got a real ticking off from Alan

our leader. First world problems! Walked at the nature reserve late morning. Lovely as always with fab

views of the Bristol Channel on a clear but very windy day. Called at Max’s before home for late lunch.

Tried to calm the waters on the RNLI whatsapp fuss but not much luck. Played cards and chatted to Kim

and Jim early evening. Clapped for NHS at 5.00pm on 72nd birthday but much less local support.

July 6th Monday

Alarm woke us again at 6.30. Bob out to early shopping but said much quieter in shop. Talked to Max early

morning after he had dropped Ieuan our 10 year old grandson in for his last day in school. Max and our 14-

year-old grandson had had a major blow out/ argument on Sunday afternoon. Josh is my biggest concern

in all of this. He played so much team sport which has all stopped and I really worry for his mental health

going forward. Family came over for tea inside as we can now bubble up. Tension between Max and Josh

ongoing and came to ahead at ours but then calmed down. Josh stayed the night and all was good but

concerned for Max.

July 7th Tuesday

Awake just before 7 and up at 7.30. Josh didn’t wake until after 9, so good sleep in. Lovely to have him with

us for brunch and car washing. Long chat to Max who admits he’s struggling with work and having both

boys at home as Penelope is now back in work full time. He seemed brighter when we dropped Josh back

at lunchtime. Lovely lunch in Kimberley and Jim’s garden. It was the furthest we’ve driven in months. Lovely

walk along by river and I drove home on the motorway for the first time in months. Late shopping at ASDA

and then sadly Cardiff City lost.

July 8th Wednesday

Up just after 7. Lazy start to the day. Watched end of film Bookclub and did lots of admin chores. Bob out to

Curry’s to collect new screen. It only took just over an hour which was a big improvement on last week

when it took two and half hours due to safety precautions. Spoke to Max at lunchtime and all good. We

have decided to go up to Stockport on Saturday with T&G. Means we can split the boys between 2 cars.

Booked Premier Inn. Walked up the road and posted letters. Weather doesn’t feel like July as it’s damp

grey and cool. Played cards with Sue and Gary and did TV in the evening.

July 9th Thursday

Woken by alarm again at 6.30 – out for early shopping on another damp morning. Bought lots of snacks

as we intend to self cater in our Premier Inn room. Washed shopping. Purchased wedding present online

for Katie and Dave. Walked in the afternoon at the lakes which was lovely as always. Bob did Governors

late afternoon. Did a quiz online with Class 69 early evening. Good fun and we really had a good laugh

which is important at this time. Watched rerun of Geraint Thomas on Tour de France in 2018 when he won

– love it.

July 10th Friday

Woke just before 6 and up at 6.30. Tess very much in my thoughts first thing. Her first baby was born

yesterday by C section. Weighted about 9lbs. In hospital with her husband but thankfully all well. Lovely

bright morning – climbed to the Bridge – fantastic views. Bumped into the farmer who supplied our meat

and reported back how nice it was. Did some sorting in the afternoon for our trip to Stockport while

following live test match cricket from the Rose Bowl. Bob over to Max and Pen’s to watch football but sadly

Cardiff lost again.

July 11th Saturday

Up at 6.30 – a lovely bright morning. Very excited to see our nephew on BBC News, on Click reporting on

an app that uses AI in supporting recovery from hip surgery. Our nephew is a Consultant at Wrightington

one of the leading hospitals in the country for hip surgery. Set off at 9.45 for drive north. Picked up Josh

and drove to Stockport. Two stops at services which were all good. Motorway slightly quieter than usual.

Arrived hotel early afternoon. Max, Pen, and boys headed to her family. Bob and I chilled with books and

then visited Brombley Bridge, lovely walks and chip supper by canal.

July 12th Sunday

Awake 6.30 stayed in bed with kindle. Bob awake by 7.15 and had lots of hot drinks & croissant and

pastries, breakfast in room. Family went out for breakfast. Bob and I headed back to Brombley Bridge.

Traffic quite heavy on a lovely Sunday morning. We walked exploring more of Brombley Bridge. Amazing

that a year ago the town was evacuated when the dam was at risk of breaking. Chatted to locals regarding

their experiences – fascinating. Drove to M6 across high peak area. Amazing views and a real tonic after

lockdown. Hooked up with family in England. Josh drove part of the way home with us – fab weekend.

July 13th Monday

Quiet start today. Feels right after our intrepid adventure over the weekend. Makes life feel more normal

and all went well. Fingers crossed we are not track and traced. Baked cake first thing. Walked late morning

as rain forecast for later. Popped into Max delivering Josh’s new screen, the cake for Ieuan and M&S

voucher for Max. All calm and Max and Josh excited about recreational cricket restarting. Enjoyed our walk

to seawall although we did get wet at the end of the walk. Home based stuff afternoon and early evening

and then out to Aldi for late shopping.

July 14th Tuesday

Up just after 7 to a bright dry morning. The media is full of the fact that facemasks are to be compulsory in

England in shops from July 24th. The guys arrived to rebuild our garden wall and will be here for a few days.

Walked in the afternoon and booked a hair appointment. Bumped into an old friend from David Lloyd Gym

– good to have a chat and catch up. Followed Cardiff City on radio – good win. Chatted to Max on phone

who was at training with Josh. He feels very disappointed and let down by Ieuan’s primary school.

July 15th Wednesday

Up at 6.40 to quite a grey day. Bob went to Hir road and sorted his broken watch – good that Edward’s was

open and he could get his favourite porridge. Guys came and did more work on the wall which is looking

good. We walked at the country park in the afternoon. Saw an old colleague that I hadn’t seen for over 40

years – pleased that I recognised her and remembered her name. Good chat re former colleagues. TV in

evening – we are enjoying the recycle of Geraint Thomas winning the Tour de France.

July 16th Thursday

Alarm woke me at 6.30 for early shopping. Quite an expensive one but got my niece Lianne’s birthday

present and quite a bit of food for various entertaining in the garden. Guys came to finish building the

garden wall and did a good job. Went and met 5 other women from David Lloyd Gym and walked around

Celtaidd Park. Lovely to get together with a different set of people. Had lunch in our garden with Ashleigh

and listened to Am dram group’s recording of Under Milkwood – fantastic. Did last Governors of year on

zoom.

July 17th Friday

Up just before 7. Lazy start and did some admin chores. Having some trouble with my lower back. Maybe

walking daily on hard surfaces is taking a toll so starting an exercise regime. Followed live cricket from Old

Trafford. Watched Mark Drakeford’s last daily TV broadcast. Interesting to hear his overview of the

pandemic. Walked a short distance on grass at Heath Park. Spoke to Max mid-afternoon – he is thrilled

that Ieuan won the Year 6 football award – it brought a tear to my eye as well.

July 18th Saturday

Up just before 7. Shot up to Waitrose before breakfast as needed some supplies for family visiting. It was a

bit busier than my usual weekday visits. Home for breakfast. Max brought Josh over as having some family

frictions. All calmer by the time they got to us but good that he spent some time with us. Bob got him to help

with grass cutting and then dropped him home. Spent time getting dressed up for Katie and Dave’s

wedding. Joined family on Zoom for pre-wedding drinks and then enjoyed the ceremony online. Lovely to

share a beautiful event.

July 19th Sunday

Up just before 7. Lazy start to day – good to see the sun again. Caught up with our virtual camino. My back

pain has meant we are cutting back on daily walking. Family called in after Josh football training and had

pancakes. Worked well after some cooking failures which I put down to dodgy flour. We walked to the

seawall in the afternoon and picked some blackberries. Went for dinner in our friend Mavis’ garden. Her ex-

husband looked quite frail and has been diagnosed with dementia. Lovely evening and enjoyed some very

nice red wine.

July 20th Monday

Up just before 7.30. Bob went to Waitrose early and got provisions in for lunch in our garden. A lovely bright

morning. Made a crumble and chicken tray bake and set things up to eat in the garden. Our friends Joe and

Juliet came to lunch. We know Joe from cricket and jazz and Juliet from jazz. She was a psychologist like

Bob. They both live alone and seem to appreciate having company. Followed cricket after they left and

good to see an England win. Long chat to Bob’s sister hearing all about the wedding while Bob fixed or

back door with a neighbour.

July 21st Tuesday

Up just before 7 – Bob out for an early run and I did various chores. Drove to New Town in the afternoon

and visited the Social Club who have made social distancing outside very easy. It was fantastic to be by the

sea on a beautiful warm day. Bob and I walked on the coastal path and then were joined by Ash, Lianne

and the 2 children. It is Lianne’s 37th birthday so we shared drinks and cake. I loved taking the children

down to the beach and looking forward to going again. We drove back around, and the traffic was

noticeably lighter than usual.

July 22nd Wednesday

Alarm woke me at 6.45 for early shopping. Slept well after sea air. Waitrose quieter than usual and staff

think things are getting back to normal. Spent morning prepping lunch – lovely lunch in garden with

Kimberley and Jim. Cleared up and chilled out after they left. Early evening we took Josh to football

practice. Dropped him off and had a lovely walk on Tyr mountain – fantastic views of the channel Followed

final games in championship – very exciting and both Cardiff and Swansea in play offs.

July 23rd Thursday

Didn’t get up until going on 8.00am. we have been giving a lot of thought to an extension on the back of the

house so lots of chat regarding that. Long chat with Ashleigh who is having some issues with an under

active thyroid. Met up with friends from David Lloyd and walked around the lake. Our friend rang late

afternoon and wanted to discuss his stepson’s degree result. Some problems with his dissertation which he

has asked us to advise on. Quiz with class of 69 in evening. Bob helped with Josh and football practice.

Max played cricket – hope ankles OK.

July 24th Friday

Up at 7.15 am. Face masks now compulsory in shops in England and it will be interesting to see how that

develops. Did an early walk to the Bridge and saw a pheasant and a really long worm. Josh came over in

the afternoon and helped with sorting our garage. Bob and I felt quite tired after a busy day physically.

Cooked beef stroganoff for dinner and then did late shopping at Aldi. Watched a programme about

Australia in the evening – my second favourite country and hope we can go back sometime.

July 25th Saturday

Up soon after 7. Went to chemist early to collect a skin cream as I have still an odd rash. Painter arrived to

start painting outside of the house – some rain but he got quite a bit done. Long chat with Avery, a young

friend of ours who has been granted an extension on sorting his undergrad dissertation – Bob and I trying

to help as much as possible. Went to Max and Penelope at 4 so they could go out for drinks and a meal.

Quite a long evening as they were not home until 10.30 – boys mostly good for us.

July 26th Sunday

Up at 7 – thought I might have spelt longer as did not get to sleep until nearly midnight last night. Catching

up on news particularly that those returning from Spain have to have 2 weeks quarantine with immediate

effect after spike in cases. Finley pushed on well with painting the house. We enjoyed following live cricket

from Old Trafford. Max and Josh called in briefly and then we walked in our field. Good chat with the

Graham’s – they are having a very worrying time re Avery’s degree and El’s parents health. Lots of footie in

evening and roast dinner.

July 27th Monday

Up at 6.30 on a very grey and stormy morning. Thunder and some lightening so not feeling like high

summer. Did some admin chores on the computer first thing. No play at the cricket all day due to rain. Max

and family drove to Manchester for a few days. Luckily we spotted M6 was closed due to a serious accident

and they were able to opt for a diversion via M6 toll. Good to get text they arrived safely. We went to

garden centre on coast road which was closed so did the old Blooms instead and got various bits instead.

Lovely to get videos from my cousin of the caravan. Sadly City poor and lost.

July 28th Tuesday

Up at 7.30 on a much brighter sunnier morning. Some eye issues with floaters which I will follow up with

optician. Painter here bright and early. Played cards with Henry and Nancy in Australia. Things have got

more difficult for them and they are much busier looking after grandchildren as they don’t want them going

to childcare. Long appointment with optician – several eye problems with floaters which for now just need

close monitoring. Did another long chat with Avery regarding his dissertation – pushing him to start writing

his methodology. Mostly watched TV on planner.

July 29th Wednesday

UP at 6.40. Bob out for early shopping getting provisions for our trip to Devon in 2 days. More sorting at

home for Devon. Had lunch and then drove to England to visit Bob’s sister and her husband. Lovely tea

and cake in her garden – not having seen them since January. Lovely to catch up and they look really well.

Drove back with no holdup so traffic definitely lighter. Took Josh to football practice which went well.

Followed Swansea in play offs but they lost.

July 30th Thursday

Up just after 6.30. A very bright sunny morning. Big day as had my hair cut for the first time since February.

Had temperature taken and had to hand gel and wear a mask – hairdresser also wore a mask – strange

times but very pleased with cut. Family called to garden in afternoon – Ashleigh and 2 grandchildren, Max,

Penelope and Josh – Ieuan doing school transition visit. Popped to Flo’s and delivered quiz. Cardiff City

played well but sadly lost play off game. Worrying news maybe more restrictions in north of England.

July 31st Friday

Up at 5.45 – lots of sorting for trip to Devon. On road before 8.30 and very excited. Drive on motorway and

short stop at services all good. Lots of busy traffic and hold ups once we got off motorway. Total trip took 3

hours. Cousin’s caravan lovely – quite hot initially but then some sea mist cooled it down. Got sorted and

had lunch and then joy of joys went to the beach and swam in sea. Beach quite busy but not difficult to

social distance. Lovely to swim. Had chilli dinner and then shopped at Lidl. Loved views of the moon on the

sea.

August 2020

Saturday 1st August

Good sleep, bed comfortable – awake soon after 5 and up at 6 – lovely views along coast as the sun came

up. Popped to Samuelsons in the morning – discovered its Louisa and Paul’s home which they rent as

airbnb when they go off in their campervan. Felt very Covid secure as Paul is the manager of a school site.

Checked out local shops. Back to caravan and spent day on beach, in sea and walking on cliffs – a lovely

spot. Watched cup final while we had dinner and followed England and Glamorgan cricket on devices.

Zoom quiz with class of 69 and shared lovely views here.

Sunday 2nd August

Not up until 7 – slept well after lots of sea air lovely views from van in the morning. Moved stuff down to

airbnb and back to van for family arrival at 11.30. Cooked snack lunch. Everyone loves van with beautiful

views along the coast. Enjoyed prosecco before dinner and then spag bog. All down to beach before

pudding. High tide just before 7 which is the best time to swim. Max and boys in despite some unpleasant

seaweed. All had great fun – a lovely moment. Left about 8.30 – back to Samuelsons and enjoyed cricket

documentary.

Monday 3rd August

Up just after 7 – nice to hear trains going to Exmouth branch line. Out to M&S for next 2 nights food – quite

quiet. Washed food down as at home – good to be self contained in our little abode. Went up to van – Bob

played golf with family while I chilled at van finishing a good book. All went to beach after lunch and all the

boys got in the sea. Back to ours in town and family visited – Max Pen and Josh went out for food on the

first day of eat out to help out scheme – every adult £10 contribution from government. We had dinner at

caravan with Ieuan and then he and I had a lovely late swim.

Tuesday 4th August

Woke at 4.45 feeling very refreshed. Sea air had caused me to have a longish first sleep. Listened to radio

but not able to go back to sleep so up just after 6. Had lovely walk in the morning around the marina – Bob

bought crab sandwiches. Chilled out at caravan lunchtime – family went to visit friends near Torquay. We

did a lovely walk in the afternoon over the cliff top and back along the beach. Cooked dinner at van. Family

back just before 9 but with very worrying news that Penelope’s mum had gone to A&E but later got news all

OK.

Wednesday 5th August

Up just after 7 – out to Marks and Spencers for early shopping like at home. Called to see Josh at van and

then did lovely walk. Hilary Mantel lives and writes here and I am looking forward to reading her latest book

on long winter days. Back for lunch at caravan and then Josh came with us to airbnb house – this type of

property which is self contained suits us very well and will do for the future. We had a pre-ordered fish and

chip supper and a lovely walk at high tide by the River.

Thursday 6th August

Up at 6.30 to a rather damp morning. Left house at 9.30 for trip to catch up with old friends. Expected

journey to take half an hour and took an hour. The joy of narrow lanes and farm vehicles! Lovely to see

Christine and Darren who live in South Devon – have not seen them for over 2 years. Did lovely trip on the

tram and had lunch and a stroll. Back to house and then over to caravan for last dinner with family. Went

with boys to beach in the evening. They played cricket and then we all enjoyed a last swim in the sea.

Lovely.

Friday 7th August

Up at 6.40 – predicted to be very hot later but a sea mist here. Packed up at house and then moved on to

sorting out caravan. Family headed off at noon. We did some sorting at the caravan and then rounded off

our holiday with lunch in a very nice cafe at the clifftop – lovely views – first proper meal out we have had in

months. Nice end to holiday. Met some busy traffic on the way home but home by 5. Lovely to have a trip

away – felt quite normal. Did ALDI shop in the evening to avoid weekend shops.

Saturday 8th August

Up soon after 6 – weather set fine so pleasantly warm. Spent morning catching up with lots of post holiday

chores. After lunch went down to watch Max’s cricket team play. On a scorching hot day in was lovely to sit

in beautiful shade and see Max take 4 wickets. This was our first experience of live cricket this year and it

was divine. Back home for tea and cake and a good win for England in the test match. Starting watching

Mrs America in the evening – new TV is beginning to dry up – lots of repeats.

Sunday 9th August

Up at 6.40 on a warm but cloudy morning. At coffee did lots of catching up on holiday diaries. We have

been lucky enough to do some amazing international travelling but that is al on hold at the moment. We are

happy to travel within the UK particularly using airbnb. Went to visit Ashleigh in the afternoon and we both

walked around to see Lianne – odd to be using hand gels as you go in and out of folks property/gardens.

Home to watch some live Glamorgan cricket and cook a roast dinner.

Monday 10th August

Up at 6.40. alarm woke Bob at 7 for early shopping but not quite as early as we used to go. Did quite a bit

of work commenting on the methodology of Avery’s dissertation. Good he has made a start and I quite

enjoyed doing something academic. Walked at the Onn in the afternoon – we expected it to be busy but it

was quieter than usual. Lovely walk. Good to follow Glamorgan cricket on the livestream from Worcester

and see Billy Root get a hundred.

Tuesday 11th August

Up at 6.40 - spent some time reading the transcript of the interview I did with and English University. Did

cards with Henry and Nancy in Australia. They are much more restricted at the moment how they can move

about in the state of Victoria. Bob went to the rubbish slot on his booked slot. Josh due to go with him but

was struggling with sunburn. Cooked a curry in the evening and subsequently suffering with heartburn!

Enjoying the Mrs America series on TV.

Wednesday 12th August

Weather extremely hot – went to the beach in the morning with Josh and Ieuan. They spent about an hour

in the water, and it was definitely cooler at the sea. Beach not too busy and easy to social distance. Home

for lunch and played cards with Sue and Gary in the afternoon. Bob took Josh to football practice early

evening. Huge thunder and lightning storm late evening.

Thursday 13th August

Out early for shopping – still struggling with heartburn so got some gaviscon. Walked around lake with

David Lloyd women and had coffee outside. Lovely to catch up. Some have gone back to DL but we are not

ready yet. The club has frozen our membership until November 1st. Ashleigh and 2 grandchildren called

over in the afternoon. Lovely to have seen more of the children this summer in the garden. Class of 69 quiz

cancelled as Wi-Fi down in Birmingham.

Friday 14th August

Up at 7 – cannot shift heartburn so talked to doctor who has recommended some stronger medication.

Went to pharmacy and collected medication. Cooked lunch and followed the test match from Southampton

although bad light restricted the game. Took Josh to football practice and did a bit of exploring local area

and churchyard. The news is full of British tourists trying to get back from France before 4.00am to avoid a

two week quarantine.

Saturday 15th August

Up soon after 6 – it feels uncomfortable to lie in bed once I wake due to heartburn. Damp wet morning so

expect Max’s cricket to be off. Good to hear Andy Burnham give an impassioned plea on behalf of A level

students many of whose predicted results have been downgraded by the government. Turned out to be a

damp grey day – drugs I am taking for heartburn made me feel a bit rotten. Did walk in afternoon. Cooked

roast dinner – felt better in the evening – watched snooker and Man City lose in champions league.

Sunday 16th August

Up at 6.45 – feeling more normal today. Checked out how we’d done on our virtual camino – only walked

the equivalent of 10 miles this week. Josh came and spent some time at ours and helped with sorting our

garage – while rest of the family climbed Pen y Fan in the Beacons as a training exercise for Ieuan’s

football team. All did very well. Lovely to have some time with Josh. Max collected him – I made a late trip

over to theirs delivering lego tickets we had printed. Sadly Man Utd lost semis in Europe.

Monday 17th August

Up at 6.30 and Bob up at 7. He went out shopping at Waitrose and then visited rubbish tip with various

items we had cleared from our garage. Family off to Legoland to mark Ieuan’s birthday. We followed cricket

at Glamorgan on a very good live stream over lunch. Chatted to Graham’s – they are having a really hard

time – major problems with El’s parents and we needed to share concerns re Avery’s progress with

dissertation. Drove to Beach in the evening in heavy traffic and managed a lovely swim in the sea – home

for hot showers and beef sandwiches.

Tuesday 18th August

Up just before 7 – lots of messages to Ieuan at legoland on his 11th birthday. Thank goodness the decision

has been changed on A levels – teacher assessments will stand – that tends to bring another set of

problems but the right decision for young people. Enjoyed watching live stream cricket from Glamorgan.

Cooked lunch. Did long walk in the afternoon – four and a half miles on seawall and blackberrying. Visited

family early evening and shared birthday cake with Ieuan – he had enjoyed 2 days at legoland despite

some covid adaptations.

Wednesday 19th August

Up just before 7. Fascinating coverage on the formal adoption of Joe Biden as the democratic candidate for

the US presidential election. Everything done online in our covid world. Took car to garage first thing on a

very wet morning. Good contact with Trailfinders in the morning. We had planned to be in Australia for

Christmas 2020 but are clear we don’t want to go this year. We had paid up front for the Indian Pacific train

from Perth to Sydney but relieved to hear they will hold our booking until December 2022 – hopefully things

will be OK to travel by then.

Thursday 20th August

Up at 6.40 and out for early shopping at Waitrose – not too busy at all. GCSE results out today and an

increase in average grades – not surprising as no exams and based on teacher assessment but had to be

this way this year. Lovely walk around the lake with women friends from David Lloyd. Did some research to

help out with Avery’s dissertation in the afternoon. Children didn’t come swimming as got quite windy. We

swam at 8ish – sea quite rough – knocked me over twice but enjoyed it.

Friday 21st August

Not up until almost 8 – evening swimming is obviously helping me lie in. Did some general sorting admin

wise and then tai chi. Interesting to follow Mark Drake ford’s 3 weekly update – feels like we are continuing

to do quite well in Wales. Over 40,000 tests and 100 hundred cases identified. Good to hear local track and

trace working well with over 90% effectiveness. Bob took Ieuan to crazy golf in the afternoon and I walked

locally. Chatted to Avery re dissertation and id online quiz with Class of 69.

Saturday 22nd August

Up just before 7.30 – another lie in. More restrictions introduced for northern conurbations and our friends

in Birmingham also at risk. Family have decided not to go back up to Manchester to visit Penelope’s family.

Max’s cricket cancelled sadly as there were puddles on the wicket. We went walking in the country park

instead and followed test and Glam cricket. Nothing to watch for us on live TV and planner exhausted so

are watching the West Wing box set that I bought in a charity shop years ago.

Sunday 23rd August

Not up till 8. Started thinking/planning for an extension which we now hope to start next Spring. Went for a

walk up the hill towards the Bridge. More rain than we anticipated but always a lovely walk – great to bump

into a David Lloyd friend and have a catch up. Back home for lunch following test match and Glamorgan

cricket. Treated ourselves to a takeaway form our favourite Chinese restaurants – food was just as good as

we remembered. Bob watched European cup final in the evening – no crowd and Bayern won.

Monday 24th August

Not up till 7.45. Bob out shopping at Waitrose but more a top up shop. Problems with our dishwasher, rang

company – took nearly an hour but have booked a check. Walked in Celtaidd Park in the afternoon – lovely

to bump into and catch up with several friends. Home for tea following lots of cricket online. Great to see

Marchant de Lange get a ton for Glamorgan and exciting watching Jimmy Anderson approach 600 test

wickets. Popped to see Ashleigh early evening to admire her new bathroom and did various shopping in

ASDA.

Tuesday 25th August

Up at 6.50 – grey morning and predicted to be very stormy. Staying because an engineer is due to come

and fix our dishwasher. Hoping the cricket would get started to allow Jimmy Anderson to get his 600th

wicket. Didn’t start until late afternoon but we were thrilled to be watching live when Jimmy did it. Thrilled

plus Mike Hogan got his 600th in first class cricket in the Glammy game. Glam lost and test a draw but

good to watch live cricket. We walked separately waiting for engineer who never arrived. Very very windy

day.

Wednesday 26th August

Up at 6.50 – out to Waitrose for shopping as we have Alex and Wendy to lunch. Lovely to spend a few

hours in the garden having lunch with Alex and Wend, even if it was slightly cool. Chilled out for a couple of

hours and then Bob and I both took Josh to football practice. Lovely evening – beautiful skies and moon as

evenings draw in. Walked to cash point in town – lots of people evident in pubs and queues for

Wetherspoons. Caught up with TV planner once home.

Thursday 27th August

Up at 6.45 – still trying to sort out the repair on our dishwasher so another early phone call. Looked after

the boys for the morning as Max had online training. Picked them up at 9.45 and drove to the seaside.

Pretty wet so we headed under cover and had ice cream, milk shakes and coffee. Also did some slots.

Weather pretty atrocious – not a good August weather wise. Dropped boys home at lunchtime – home for

our lunch and to dry out. Good to get news Avery had submitted dissertation. Live T20 cricket cancelled

due to rain.

Friday 28th August

Up at 6.15 – did some baking and cooking in the morning and then tai chi. Spoke to Max – a lad had

broken his leg at football last night which was very upsetting for them all. Went out blackberrying late

morning as more rain is forecast this afternoon. Some rain did come in but not too bad. Read, and played

cards with Sue and Gary. Both Sue and another friend have medical procedures in the next few weeks and

have to self isolate 2 weeks ahead of it – very different. Watched some of the first night of the Proms – very

uplifting – as Stephen Fry said like water in the desert.

Saturday 29th August

Up at 6.20 on the last summer bank holiday weekend. Northerly winds so quite cool. Did our lovely walk to

the Bridge – lovely crystal clear morning for walking. Saw 2 pheasants and lots of activity with beef cattle at

the farm. Home for lunch and then went to watch Max’s cricket. Cool day but lovely to watch live cricket –

Max in the wickets again. Lovely to see Chief Executive of Glamorgan – seems unlikely we will be back this

season but enjoyed T20 win online plus Max’s team won and we enjoyed following the Tour de France.

September 2020

Tuesday September 1st

Up soon after 6 as looking after boys as Penelope back to work and Max doing training. Left home 7.15 –

lovely to have some normality. Good to hear news that Oxford vaccine people have signed production deal

that will speed things up. Boys asleep when I arrived so very peaceful. Boys didn’t wake until 9 – eventually

getting back to full time school will be quite an adjustment. Brought them to ours and spoilt them with

pancakes. Guy came to repair dishwasher but later discovered it’s still not working. All rather frustrating.

Wednesday September 2nd

Up soon after 6 – only just getting light at that time. Did a Waitrose shop which was all good. Bob went to

boys and Max came to ours and ran a training session from our front room. Bob did some school work with

Ieuan – good to get him back into it. Popped into our neighbours to check out their extension – Bob really

liked it but I went the other way and not at all sure if it’s right for us. Lovely to bump into a very old friend of

ours as we went for a walk. We see her regularly on zoom but lovely to see her in person and meet her

lockdown dog.

Thursday September 3rd

Up at 6.30 to a rather damp morning. Hoping it dries up for my walk later. Weather not too bad by 11 and I

enjoyed my walk around Celtaidd Park with 3 other David Lloyd women. One of the women had had 2

weeks self isolation after a holiday in the south of France. Holiday sounded lovely – French particularly

strong on masks and you had to wear one outside when not eating of drinking. Cooked spag bog for tea

and followed Glam cricket on Sky and Wales beat Finland at football.

Friday September 4th

Up at 6.30. Ieuan’s first day at comp so a big day. Head had been very understanding when he didn’t want

to wear a tie or mask. Hopefully he will have a good day. Left home just after 9 and spent morning short-

listing for teacher posts. Hundred plus applications narrowed down to 13. Home for lunch and then out for a

walk to the Bridge – lovely new route – fascinating train tunnel tower. Good to hear Ieuan’s day went well.

Felt quite tired in the evening after a busy day – out for late ALDI shop.

Saturday 5th September

Up quite early – got sorted for day out at Healy Towyn. Left home 9.15 and stopped for toilets at the

services. Tractors and slow vehicles made for a slow run on the Gower – arrived 10.45. Lovely to meet

baby Jax before Tess and Giovanni left for London. Bob and I went for a sea swim and then back for a

lovely lunch with Kim and Jim outside their caravan. We were quite interested in a van they thought was for

sale with fab sea views but all vans sold – very popular. Lovely walk on beach after lunch – lovely day out –

must do more.

Sunday 6th September

Not awake till after 7 after lots of exercise and sea air. Did our walk to the Bridge – saw and heard

pheasants. Lovely chat to Pete on the phone – an 85 year old very old friend. Followed lots of sport in the

afternoon – Glam cricket, England T20 and Wales football which they won in injury time against Bulgaria.

Ordered a Chinese takeaway which we enjoyed with Max and Josh. Penelope not feeling great so hope

she is OK. Lovely meal and enjoyed quiz with Class of 69.

Monday 7th September

Up at 7.20. Bob out shopping at Waitrose – all OK – traffic busy coming back past local school – lots of

teenagers hugging each other, understandable but a bit of an issue. Enjoyed following live cricket from

Glamorgan. Popped out to B&Q in the afternoon and bought a new electric heater. Early evening got the

news that Tynywaun is going into local lockdown due to a spike in cases. Big implications for Josh as he

trains for football there and the Executive Head of my school who lives in Tynywaun. Such a shame.

Tuesday 8th September

Feel at quite a low point – rates are increasing. Tynywaun feels very close by and the slogan ‘Don’t kill your

Gran’ directed at young people also hits home. Don’t like the concept of separation between young and old.

Enjoyed cards with Henry and Nancy in the morning – things improving in Victoria but they are living with

much tighter restrictions than we are. Popped to Max and boys – delivered a cake – Max took his

temperature as he has a cough but all normal thank goodness. Walked to seawall and picked blackberries.

Dinner and TV in the evening.

Wednesday 9th September

Up at 6.15 – mornings getting darker. Went to Seaside with Ieuan who is still not back to full-time school.

Josh in school for the day but not full-time yet. Ieuan loved the space at the seaside – he and Bob went into

the sea first and I also went in. Quite cool but lovely to be the only one in the sea. Relaxing afternoon –

finished a good book on my kindle – followed Glamorgan cricket on ipad – excellent that they hung on for

another draw.

Thursday 10th September

Out shopping at Waitrose early. Call from Ashleigh she is off to Pembrokeshire for a few days. I went to

walk at Celtaidd Park with David Lloyd friends. Bob did a zoom meeting with a friend in England to mark his

70th birthday. 2 workmen in – one quoting on a new bathroom and another attempt to fix our dishwasher –

still not working. Lazy rest of the day – watched ‘Escape to the Country’ – a guilty pleasure when we are

here. Did teatime quiz shows on TV and caught up with holiday diaries.

Friday 11th September

Awake soon after 5 and up around 6. Lazy start to day catching up with phones. More restrictions pending

as number of Covid cases significantly rising again. Decided to explore a new bit of South Wales and drove

to Porthladd Park. Lovely spot – had picnic outside and then did lovely walk. Checked out caravan site –

nice spot but no availability on sea view plots that we would be interested in. Watched Mark Drakeford’s 3

weekly update – rule of 6 inside and out and facemasks in shops from Monday.

Saturday 12th September

Up around 6.15 – quite dark. Did a lovely walk to the Bridge – think we are getting a bit fitter on hills.

Bumped into a guy who used to be in school with me – lovely to catch up. Bob watching the Cardiff City

game on iPad – gets a code to do this as he has a season ticket. 1 nil down within minutes and sadly lost 2

nil. Cooked a nice dinner and enjoyed Tour de France and Last night of the Proms. Some beautiful music

though didn’t like the new arrangement of Jerusalem. You will never walk alone was particularly moving

and made me cry.

Sunday 13th September

Up again at 6.15 – in a phase of waking early. Did some admin chores – always enjoy on a Sunday

catching up with our virtual camino. Have now walked over 300 miles in lockdown and reached Astorga.

Did some housework following cricket from Glamorgan and England. Good wins for both. Had roast dinner

at lunchtime – had a garden fire late afternoon. Did quiz with class of 69 – friends in English Midlands

facing serious lockdown due to a local spike – very frustrating and worrying.

Monday 14th September

Up just before 6.30 – looks like it’s going to be a lovely day. Worked on the annual report for governing

body – sent first draft to Joanne. Early lunch and then drove down to Havan to check out a possible

caravan purchase. Thrilled with the possible site for the van with amazing view of the Bristol channel – put

a small deposit down to reserve the spot and will explore purchase of van. Swam at beach on a very warm

day. Shared exciting news re van with family.

Tuesday 15th September

Up at 6.45 – feeling very excited about our possible new holiday home. Message to my friend Ellen who is

having a civil ceremony today that was cancelled in April. Popped out, looked to sort flu jabs in boots and

did the card shop – everyone wearing masks in shops now. Rang our surgery – arranging flu jabs complex

this year but expecting an appointment mid October. Popped to bathroom shop in afternoon to check out

options. Did Aldi shop in evening.

Wednesday 16th September

Up at 6.20 to another bright morning. Main news issue that people cannot get tests – demands seriously

exceeding supply. Did tai chi and had early showers as dishwasher man came again but still cannot identify

the fault. Read through all the small print linked to our new caravan and had long chat to the rep –

everything solved. Finished some online governor training. Watched lots of cricket – Glam wee awful and

lost – England’s game very exciting but lost narrowly.

Thursday 17th September

Up just after 7 – got sorted and set off for the Gower just after 9.30. Beautiful morning with cloudless skies.

Went to view possible new caravan and loved it so emailed our rep to confirm we will have it – all very

exciting. Had hair cut in the afternoon. Lovely chats with family and friends confirming news about our new

caravan. Bob did a fire in garden helping us clear some confidential waste.

Friday 18th September

Up early soon after 6 as spending morning interviewing for teaching posts. Interesting and successful

morning and great to be doing something so normal. Home early afternoon – good to hear that Max &

Penelope’s meeting at Ieuan’s new comp had gone well. Had Governors on zoom in evening to confirm

appointments. Followed Glam cricket in the evening – another win but won’t proceed in competition.

Saturday 19th September

Up soon after 6.30. Lazy start to the day. Bob struggling with a bad back so cancelled planned walk up hill.

Early brunch and then over to Max and Pen. Penelope and I walked around local lake and family watched

Cardiff City on Sky. Lovely walk and met boys headmaster – lovely man and great to hear boys had made

a good start. Friend of Max and Pen joined us for football – we were 8 but spread around the house – very

difficult. Great City win and lovely to have some strictly replays in the evening.

Sunday 20th September

Up at 6.45. Left home at 9.45 for visit to Caravan Park. Lovely bright warm day. Met up with family just

10.30 – everyone very impressed with our site. Had fun at high tide down by the waves. Max and Josh shot

back to Cardiff for football while Bob, Ieuan, Penelope and I enjoyed bacon rolls and then a walk to the spot

where our caravan will go – all very exciting. Back early afternoon – enjoyed another win for Glam cricket

and end of tour de France. 2 zoom meetings in the evening for crib and a quiz.

Monday 21st September

Up at 6.30. Went to Marks and Spencers early to dodge the crowds. Did some clothes shopping and

treated ourselves to some nice food. Listened to scientists / medical briefing on drive back – lots of warning

re rising rates – said to be in this for 6 months but optimism re vaccines early part of next year. More and

more restrictions on local authority areas in South Wales but our OK so far. Things got more worrying as

the day proceeded – we are surrounded by problem areas. Max came to ours to deliver training – Josh not

up to football practice – hopefully just a cold.

Tuesday 22nd September

Up at 6.30 – news not great. We seem to be at a pivotal point – rates rising sharply and Boris to make an

announcement this evening. Lovely get together with Henry and Nancy in Australia – cards always fun.

Things improving for them. We watched first minister questions at the Senedd live – Mark seems to be

against an all Wales lockdown though Cardiff now on the watch list. Watched Boris and Mark live on TV in

the evening. Limitations not quite as bad as it might have been for us. Out to Aldi shopping late evening

and then home for Bake Off.

Wednesday 23rd September

Up soon after 6 to a damp morning. News preoccupied with lots of different approaches across the UK.

Main message from Boris is to expect all this to last for another 6 months. Drove down to the caravan park

to sign some paperwork for our new van. All good. Checked out swimming pool and saw our friend who is

also on the site – their caravan is very smart. Did a lovely walk toward the biodiversity area- saw several

herons – a lovely spot. Chilled out in the evening and had salmon for dinner.

Thursday 24th September

Up soon after 6 and out shopping at Waitrose soon after 7.30. Everyone wearing masks now and the shop

very quiet. Met up with David Lloyd girls for a walk about 11 – lovely to see Dot and Sam for the first time.

Chancellor making announcement to continue to protect businesses. Played cards with Sue and Gary at

4pm. Lovely to get message that Josh getting excellent reports from school but then worrying to hear he

has a cough and needs a Covid test. Did Glamorgan members forum online early evening.

Friday 25th September

Up soon after 6 – bit concerned re Josh who has a test booked for 11.30 am. Max came over to do training

in our dining room. Bob and I did a lovely walk to the Bridge – lovely sunshine and light but getting cooler.

Heard announcement Cardiff into lockdown form 6pm Sunday. Lovely chat to friend who had had a medical

procedure this week. Lovely early evening to watch live streaming of jazz from College of Music and Drama

– lovely and quite emotional moment.

Saturday 26th September

Up at 7 to a cool but bright morning. Made a white chocolate and raspberry cheesecake for our barbecue at

Mavis’ this evening. Great to get the news that Josh’s covid test was negative. Bob watched Cardiff City on

livestream on the afternoon – poor performance and lost 2-1. We went to Mavis’ at 5pm for barbecue –

bright but cool evening so very wrapped up. Lovely food – there were 7 of us so we broke rules but stayed

distanced in the garden. When we went to 6, we went inside for a short while as very cold. Felt like last

supper.

Sunday 27th September

Up just before 7.30. Made a sponge cake for family and a brunch with Josh. Bob then took him to football

practice. With local lockdown starting at 6.00pm this evening will be the last time he comes into ours for a

while. Family did come back to help put our shower room door on. Aimee Phillips called by to collect free

cinema ticket I had. Lovely to chat in sunshine. Watched end of cricket county championship – sadly

Somerset missed out on a win. Did quiz with class of 69 – several seemed rather low experiencing a dip in

mood.

Monday 28th September

Up just before 7. Bob out shopping at Waitrose – said one of the older assistants was feeling very anxious

so he was advising her re deep breathing. This is our first full day of local lockdown so no travelling outside

of Cardiff. Did a local walk in the afternoon which we have not done for a while. Does feel like déjà vu and

going back in time. Saw one of our friends who lives in same road and happened to be in the garden – had

a good chat. Did quite a bit of TV in the evening and enjoyed an M&S curry.

Tuesday 29th September

Not up until after 7.30 so perhaps regular walking helps. Had text from a friend up North saying her

daughter’s mental health has been a major problem in recent months. Lots of my friends seem to have a

range of health problems and having them overlaid with covid is particularly difficult. Positive response re

helping with Avery’s dissertation and Max excited re possibly commentating at Newport County. Lovely

walk at the country park in the afternoon. Enjoyed Bake Off in the evening.

Wednesday 30th September

My last day for sharing my daily diary with Michael Ward’s Swansea University research project. Not up

until 8.20. Spent some of the night listening on the radio to the presidential debate between Biden and

Trump. Trump particularly obnoxious – a classis bully. Biden rather stuttering but did OK. Wet day so doing

inside jobs – defrosting fridge. Enjoyed watching Newport County on Sky in the evening – they nearly beat

Newcastle - leading until the last few minutes and then lost penalty shoot out.

January 2021

January 17th

Good sleep – not up until 7.45 – lots of dreaming and following cricket. Nice to start the day watching

England v Sri Lanka. Had call from Lisa – sadly Uncle’s younger brother has died of Covid – he was 78 and

had had heart surgery 12 months ago. Very sad particularly for Lisa and Robert as they won’t be able to

attend his funeral in Southampton. Got increasingly mithered re vaccines – listening to NHS guy who said

once they have prioritized 70+ groups will focus on second vaccines which does not leave me at 69.75 in a

good place – nothing I can really do about it but it does get to me. Did screen time with Graham’s, Max &

family, Class of 69 and 2 chats with Ashleigh. Met Martine, a Palace fan.

January 18th

Up at 6.30 – England won the cricket but I missed it on the radio – good result. Did well with de-cluttering in

the kitchen and identified stuff for caravan and car boot’s when we can do one. Good result for Hobart

Hurricanes in the Big Bash which put them back in contention. Contacted our AM re how things are going

with the vaccine programme. Wales seems rather slow in the rollout and Mark D has been on the radio

saying they are not rushing to roll out jabs which seems the wrong approach. Max had quite a difficult day.

We took Ieuan for a couple of walks around the block despite the rain. Quite dozy at 8.30 but did Aldi at 9

which was well stocked thankfully.

January 19th

Awake around 6.40 – followed test cricket from Australia first thing. Got up and watched last half hour –

very exciting win for India. Cricket has been a Godsend during January. Did aerobics online with Annette –

great class worked well and lovely to see everyone. Got message from Harvey that Gillian Berry has been

in hospital with covid but back home now and improving thankfully. Walked after lunch by the stream –

water quite high. Heavy rain forecast so flooding could become an issue in the UK. Spoke to the rep re

caravan – she believes it’s built but some supply chain issues equipping it. Played cards with friends in

English Midlands – it’s my dear friends 70th tomorrow.

January 20th

Up at 6.40 on the day Trump leaves office and Marlene is 70. Good to get message a message that Gillian

is recovering well. Went and collected Josh at midday. He had bacon rolls and then did an online lesson at

ours. We all had pancakes after he had finished lessons. I took him back just after 4 and got back in time to

see the inauguration of President Biden – a pared down ceremony buy very well done – loved the music

especially Lady Gaga singing the stars and stripes. Anticipate America will be very different under Biden

and for the first time a Madame vice president. Got call from our rep, caravan completed and just needs to

be moved down.

January 21st

Awake at 5 – slightly concerned re news of flooding in South Manchester friends.. Up at 6 and out shopping

at 7.30. Very wintry and hail storm as we drove. Spoke to Bank re paying Bulgaria all straightforward . Max

decided he didn’t need us to walk with Ieuan though in the end he had a very busy day. We walked to the

stream, quite chilly and stream quite high. More issues with runners!! Played cards Sue and Gary at 4.30 –

Sue’s Mum still in Field hospital – very difficult for family as communication difficult and no visiting. Spoke

to Max in the evening – still working – working most evenings as home schooling in the day and Boss

keeps loading things on him.

January 22nd

Up at 6.55 – followed cricket in bed initially but sadly Hobart lost. Spent quite a bit of time attempting to pay

for caravan – not easy but got there in the end. Did tai chi. I walked early afternoon - had lamb delivered

and we were waiting for a wine delivery from Jeremy. Lovely to receive 6 bottles of very nice red wine from

Jeremy – he is working towards retirement and a possible move back to France. Played cards with friends.

Bob walked late afternoon while I cooked spaghetti bolognaise. Did Jazz on TV. Missed first set as chatting

to Max – sorry to hear Josh had got quite emotional today – missing everyone so sad. Enjoyed Blues win

and nice red in the evening.

January 23rd

Up at 6.50 – following cricket from Sri Lanka England not doing so well. Frosty morning so went out for an

early walk in the field as the ground was quite frozen. Lovely in the field and home for coffee by 10.30.

More following cricket and then able to enjoy our usual Saturday afternoon of sport. FA cup day with good

win for Swansea and Cheltenham almost beat Man City. Sadly Newport lost so down to third and had

another player red carded. Got together with Kim and Jim for a happy hour drink before dinner – they are

debating going up to Tess but not sure if Jim might be called for vaccine. Lots of news on David Lloyd

group of people being called for vaccine but no rhyme or reason to the order. Enjoyed Lloyds movie in the

evening.

January 24th

Awake at 5.45 following cricket. Woke to snow but don’t think it will last long. Lovely to see lots of families

walking up our road with sledges to enjoy the snow. Followed test cricket and Big Bash – great that

Hurricanes beat Sydney Sixers which puts them in 6th position and a chance of being in the knockout. Made

cakes. Went for a walk after lunch but quite treacherous under foot. Checked out our Camino progress –

not far now from Finisterre – close by where we stayed on the coast with Henry & Nancy. Cooked a roast

chicken dinner – followed FA cup especially Man Utd v Liverpool which Utd won. Sport continues to be a

Godsend. Did quiz with Class of 69 early evening – always good to catch up.

January 25th

Followed cricket from Sri Lanka first thing in bed – SL quite a batting collapse. Followed cricket all morning

while doing some jobs e.g. dusting and decluttering. Good to get call from Lisa that they have had their

jabs. Good to be able to watch England win the test match. Went over to Max’s in the afternoon and took

Ieuan for a walk around the lake. Penelope working fulltime as a Teaching Assistant this week so

challenging for Max home-schooling with both boys at home. Lovely at lake – still icy at some points and

lovely wild life including 2 herons. Ieu enjoyed feeding ducks. Message saying that Avery may noy get his

degree result until March – not clear why this is.

January 26th

Awake at 5 and up just after 6 following Big Bash cricket from Australia – Hurricanes playing last game but

need to win to qualify for knockouts. Sadly they lost and so did Melbourne Stars so we will have to find a

new favourite for up and coming finals. Did aerobics class with Annette on zoom – major problems with

sound initially but it worked in the end – loved it. Baked a cake and did ironing. Got message from Diana

that Cardiff health board were accepting calls from over 70’s to book a vaccine. Bob tried – very hard to get

through but got there eventually and joy of joys the young man booking us in was persuaded that at 69.75 I

could come in as well so booked for Saturday.

January 27th

Slept until 6.20 and up just after 7. Did early cards with Henry and Nancy 9.30 – lovely to be able to share

positive news re jabs and the caravan. Deaths in the UK have exceeded 100K which is a very bleak

milestone. The media does seem to wallow in personal accounts which we try to avoid but I did find the

interview with the Archbishop of Canterbury very moving and accessible. Early lunch and collected Ieuan at

12.30. Drove to the country park for a walk – absolutely beautiful with lots of signs of Spring emerging.

Back to ours for pancakes and Max and Pen collected Ieuan late afternoon. Some time with audio book

and cooked lamb dinner with lamb. Lovely chats with Graham’s and family in the evening.

January 28th

Awake at 6 and up just before 6.30 – out to Waitrose for shopping. Messaged Lake Country house Hotel re

[possible celebration in June to mark our Golden wedding – no immediate reply]. Tried to do Governor

training on Teams – didn’t work initially but then Bob managed to download it and we were able to join the

end of the session on blended learning. I collected Josh just after midday – we all enjoyed lamb burgers for

lunch. Josh did a Drama lesson in the dining room which we also found interesting to listen into. Took him

home just after 4 – he sat in the back of the car with windows down and I wore a mask – strange times.

Cards with Sue and Gary and lovely to get message caravan at the park.

January 29th

Lazy start today and not up until after 7.30. Cricket on again from Australia. Started retyping diaries.

Message that primary school children will start to come back into school after half term. Followed the

cricket from Australia all morning. Bob did Zoom meeting with old school friends over coffee. Watched

Mark D at lunchtime who announced that primary school swill be able to have younger children back in

after half term as long as rates continue to fall. Sadly no news yet for secondary aged pupils. Walked after

lunch and then played cards with more friends. Lovely to get message from Lake Country house that they

have availability for June 6th so fingers crossed. Very good jazz session.

January 30th

Up just before 7 and out by 8.45 – travelled to get vaccines. Very well organized with Army and volunteers

in attendance and staff very helpful – felt very emotional. Waited 15 minutes to check all OK – I tend to be

suggestible and imagined symptoms but all OK. Lots of phoning folk – Max, Ashleigh and Kim. Shared date

with Kim for Lake country house. Also spoke to oter friend and had happy hour drinks with Alex and

Wendy. I sense everyone is slightly anxious re a date as early as June 6th for getting together, so good we

have a wholly flexible deal. Lots of football in the afternoon – City drew, Newport lost and Palace won.

Watched Lloyds film and enjoyed beef curry in the evening.

January 31st

Up just after 7 – arm a little stiff from vaccine but nothing much at all. Today sees us mark completing

walking the whole of the Camino Frances in Spain virtually from St Jean to Finisterre. Seems quite telling

that our last steps on the way were the day we received our vaccine. We went out for a walk early as bad

weather forecast. Walked close by the reservoir and back home for coffee. Cooked our leg of lamb for

lunch. It snowed for quite a few hours in the middle of the day. Lamb was lovely – Ashleigh called over to

collect a roast dinner and a jigsaw and Max and Pen called to collect a beef curry we cooked last night.

Nice to be able to share with family from our doorstep. Did class of 69 quiz in the evening – all but one of

us has been jabbed this week.

February 2021

February 17th

Up at 6.45 and getting lighter now in the mornings. Played cards with Australia 9.30 and felt like we have

more positive news to share with them from the UK. Interesting to hear that Australia are looking to build a

new single storey quarantine centre with no air con and access to outdoor space a hotel quarantine not

fully effective. Collected Josh who came to ours for a few hours in the middle of the day. Good for his and

our wellbeing. We are lucky to have such a lovely relationship with both grandsons. Usual TV evening and

caught up with family chats.

February 18th

Up with alarm at 6.30 for Waitrose shop. Made appointment for blood test and dentist – post vaccine I do

feel safer planning such things that have been on hold. Family called round for mew to make running

repairs on one of Ieuan’s favourite soft toys. Felt quite spring like and lovely and warm sat in our

conservatory. Walked after lunch and had a doorstep chat with Sandy a very old friend in her 80’s who lives

alone. Late afternoon cards with Sue and Gary.

February 19th

Up at 6.35 on a very wet morning – did various house jobs in the morning and watched Mark at lunchtime.

Very frustrated that no road map is set out for the majority of secondary pupils returning to school despite

Mark’s assurance that this would be a priority. Feels like a U turn that non-essential shops seem to come

before a full return. Emailed AM and took to Facebook while Bob took to twitter. Managed to grab some

fresh air walking around the block and played cards with friends. As usual enjoyed the jazz but broke off to

listen to the HT of our federation give an interview on Radio 5 re foundation phase children returning next

week. She was brilliant and I felt very proud at how far we have come as a school.

February 20th

Up at 6.30. Red letter day as 3 weeks since our vaccine which gives us a good level of protection

(hopefully). Made a cake which I delivered to family in the afternoon. Several family chats on devices.

Prawn curries for dinner and usual TV – Saturday night shows with virtual audiences. Sorry to see Mark

lose the semi-final of the Welsh Open snooker.

February 21st

Up at 6.40. Went out to walk to the Bridge early but couldn’t avoid the rain so had a particularly damp walk.

Watched Max at lunchtime on Newport TV – he did well but sadly not the team although they are playing on

a mudbath. Finished my audio book by Lucy C and emailed her re her references to University. Lovely

reply back that she was a student at Cardiff studying English literature. Started my Hilary Mantel book

which is likely to last some months. Lovely geography quiz with class of 69 and very exciting end to Welsh

snooker.

February 22nd

Up at 6.30 – dawn breaking – have become a fan of birdsong so enjoyed listening. Locked down and Covid

has certainly connected us more with nature. Made shepherds pies and a curry from the remains of our

lamb. Listened to a very frustrating broadcast form Kirsty Williams parroting that returning children to school

is still a priority but clearly being willing to open other sectors before a full return. At least the medic on the

panel admitted this is the case. She said emphatically that a majority of secondary children won’t return

until after Easter and then it might not be fulltime. The psychological impact on children is being ignored.

Collected Ieuan for a walk - he was reluctant and the lack of structure is clearly impacting him. Lots of

evidence of children out with friends on a very sunny day. Boris then stirred things up by setting up a full

roadmap to end lockdown culminating on June 21st. Particularly significant that all children in England back

to school by March 8th – wonder what pressure this will put on the Welsh government?

February 23rd

Up at 6.40 to birdsong, dawn and radio 3. Did Annette’s aerobics class – major issues with sound but

always good to get together. Set off for the caravan park after lunch and very excited to be inside the

caravan for the first time. Thrilled with it especially it’s position right up above the waves on the coastal

path. Home for cards with friends and then a talk about wildlife in Guyana from an old school friend of

Bob’s.

February 24th

Up at 6.30 – having blood test today after pre diabetic diagnosis in the autumn. Pleased to say I have lost

half a stone since that diagnosis so fingers crossed. Met friends for a walk in the Bay and walked 3 miles

with lots of chatting and catching up. Collected Josh and he did lesson at ours and then pancakes. Max

collected him. Cards with Sue and Gary and then did cricket talk on Zoom looking back at success in the

40’s and 50’s. Interesting if rather long.

February 25th

Up at 6.10 – for early shopping – did Waitrose and home just after 8a.m. Bob out to chiropodist. Ieuan did a

half day in school and I collected him at 12.30 – seemed very chatty in the car and good for him to get back

into some routine of school. Walked by the stream and chatted to Pete an 85 year old friend. Enjoying “The

Mirror and the Light” my new audio book. Cricket a debacle and over in 5 sessions.

February 26th

Up at 6.30 to a beautiful bright cloudless morning. Did an early walk to the ridgeway where the air felt like

champagne. Lovely chat to Clifford the farmer. Bob did shopping which was surprisingly busy. Cards with

friends and as usual enjoyed Friday night jazz.

February 27th

Up at 6.45 to another bright morning with a light frost. The big one today – Wales v England at rugby – love

a morning of the match in Cardiff but not this year sadly. Long chat to Max who is feeling very stressed

workwise – glad he has opened up to us. Made a cake and walked after lunch and chatted to several

neighbours on a lovely bright afternoon. Max did well at Newport interviewing Gav, the chairman. Newport

drew and City won and Wales won the rugby against England. Great result – chatted to Grahams later who

were very disappointed. Watched Lloyd’s movies in the evening.

February 28th

Up just before 6.30 – have started listening to my audio book in the mornings as you have to really

concentrate on it. Lovely walk at the reservoir first thing. Max and Penelope called in the afternoon and

chatted on drive – Penelope has her jab appointment as a TA working with vulnerable children. Popped to

Waitrose to get flowers for Kit and picked up a Sunday paper for the first time in months. Class of 69 quiz

was great fun with a range of challenges which Kit won.

March 2021

March 1st

Up at 6.40. Lots of St David’s day messages. Out early to deliver flowers and a card to Kitty for her 70th.

Lovely walk at the park – beautiful spring flowers and bumped into an old school friend. Ashleigh called

around early afternoon and chatted in our conservatory. Had Zoom call with friends in Cotswolds to mark

her 70th in a couple of days. Late shop Aldi.

March 2nd

Not up until 7.39 so quite a lie in. Did aerobics in lounge with Annette and lovely catch up with girls. Dentist

in afternoon – looks like I will need some work done as not been for 18 months. Cards with friends and

another Cardiff City win so going well.

March 3rd

Not up till after 7 again. Had day at home catching up on jobs – defrosted fridge. Played cards with

Australia in the morning and Wales in the afternoon. Frustrated as paperwork arrived for Bob’s election to

the Board and his personal statement had ben sub-edited and had typos. Very disappointing and

unprofessional on their part.

March 4th

Up at 6.15- followed cricket from soon after 4.00a.m. but England 3 down at lunch. A day obsessed with

cricket following England test and talking to various people regarding Bob’s election to the Board – some

evidence of intrigue and by the end of the day Bob is rewriting his statement and it its being re-issued to

members.

March 5th

Followed cricket from 4.00a.m. England have India 80-4 having achieved 205 themselves. Drove to Parc

Tyr late morning and joined the tribute in the street to a friend’s Mum as the funeral cortege moved off. Our

first experience of a lockdown funeral – very moving and lots of friends and family evident to support the

family. Only 30 can attend a funeral at this time. Cards with Lucile and family and then I had a governor’s

meeting to catch up with how the first week had gone – all good. Caught the end of the jazz and Tv in the

evening.

March 6th

Up just after 6.30 but cricket not going well. Beautiful sunrise and our garden is full of daffodils. Cricket

done and dusted by midmorning - England lost to India 3-1. Delivered cake to family in the afternoon –

starting to feel hard not to have closer contact with family – just a doorstep visit. Home for sport, long chat

with Kim and Jim and cricket talk although link to Australia didn’t work this time.

March 7th

Up at 6.30 to a frosty but bright morning. Lovely walk to the ridgeway – saw primroses and lambs and did a

longer than expected circular walk. Quite a lot of people out and about and some nice chats. Roast chicken

dinner and usual good fun with Class of 69 quiz.

March 8th

Up just before 7.30 – news is full of Harry and Meghan interview and children in England back to school.

Did various admin jobs in the morning. Collected Ieuan at 1.30 for pancakes at ours. Bob to dentist. Great

to get news that both boys back in school 50% for last 2 weeks of term. ASDA shop in the evening and

watched interview with Harry and Meghan.

March 9th

Not up till 7.30. watched fall out from royal interview on news. Lovely aerobics class and catch up. Walked

after lunch and cards with friends in English Midlands. Followed Max on Facebook live at Cardiff city where

his team are now playing home games due to state of pitch. Max did well and clearly enjoyed himself – a

late win.

March 10th

Up at 6.30. Collected Josh at midday for afternoon at ours. Always good to have his company. Max feels he

has been rather down since he sprained his ankle and couldn’t exercise so good he is back to school next

week. Usual quiet evening with Tv – exhausted planner.

March 11th

Up just before 6.30 for early Waitrose shop. Very wild night so hope caravan intact. Collected Ieuan from

school 12.30 – he was very chatty and engaged and this limited half day in school has clearly helped him.

Did some online ordering for the van of bedding and crockery. Lovely to get call from Avery that he had

achieved a 2:2 for his degree - very emotional chat with his Mum later. Cards Sue and Gary and Tv in

evening – very moving documentary re Dunblane 25 years ago.

March 12th

Up at 6.25 – 3 week announcement day and early news hairdressers to open and we can now officially

travel 5 miles although vast majority have been doping that anyway. Did click and collect for things for the

van and good to get news that we should be able to go to the van from March 29 th. Dida couple of Governor

meetings online. Cards and jazz and usual Tv in the evening.

March 13th

Up at 6.30 and still very blustery. Even better news re van we can go in on March 27 th just 2 weeks away.

Made a cake and lots of sport in the afternoon. Wales beat Italy in the rugby and England edged past

France which increase chances of Wales winning 6 nations. Newport won and City lost and long chats to

family and friends re results.

March 14th

Not up until 8.15 on mothering Sunday. Nice walk by reservoir in the morning. Brunch late morning and

then the family came for afternoon tea all suitably spread out with ventilation. Won the class of 69 quiz in

the evening.

March 15th

Another lie in and not up until after 8. Climbed to the bridge in the morning with family – lots of cuddling of

lambs. Home for lunch and guy came to give us an estimate for upgrading shower room. Late evening shop

at Aldi and delivered some food to a friend/neighbour who had fallen and broken her knee cap.

March 16th

Up at 6.50 on a day when we would usually be going to Cheltenham races. Lovely get together in garden to

mark the start of Cheltenham. Collected boys from school their first time in since December. Seemed to go

OK. Card with Birmingham friends. This should have been my last diary entry – 365 days living with Covid

but will do one extra day to mark receiving our second Pfizer vaccine.

March 17th

Up at 6.35. Cards with Australia. Set off for second Pfizer vaccine at midday. Much busier than first visit but

so grateful to receive my second jab from a third year medical student who would not have expected to do

this a year ago. While we waited Bob got the very sad news that his friend and colleague had died

yesterday. The saddest thing is that he spent the last year alone isolating but at least Bob has regular

contact on social media. My last daily entry must end with a massive thank you to the scientists and NHS

for all they have done and for helping to protect myself my family and friends as we continue to live with

Covid.