COVID-19 Diary: Week Nine

A different week for sure as although there has only been a very small relaxation in the social distancing guidelines (well small but illogical and as ever poorly communicated) it feels very different out and about.

Roads busier. I know this because the pet transport requests have gone mad as this is the first week Spanish transporters have been allowed to work. In addition to a couple of SOS transports in the UK I have helped with the transport of dogs and cats from Spain and tonight will be going to Folkestone to hep bring over 110 dogs from a variety of places including Cyprus and then later in the week will be helping to deliver them.

Without doubt there is a lot of confusion not only of what we can or (more importantly for most people) can’t do, but also as to what the Government now thinks is important. If you read the headlines they have pretty much every base covered.

Can’t see the point of rushing to open the schools. Another month wont make much difference and most children can catch up over future years with longer days/terms, summer classes etc.

Ditto selling houses: how come I can let any Tom, Dick or Harriet into my home if I am selling it, but my parents who have been self isolating for 8 weeks can’t come into our Garden? Pure madness and they wont be able to stop it.

Best example I can think of is that the Government seems to think it is possible to be only a little bit pregnant.

I remain bemused (well not really as I understand but it saddens me) that for so many a Fast Food outlet (they are NOT restaurants), a pub, the cinema, are worth risking their and other people’s health for.

Ditto really the idea of playing sport behind closed doors. Rather like going to a brothel for a kiss – pointless. Also totally selfish, impractical and out of touch with society.

The people in charge should be looking at ways of resetting and working to protect the smaller clubs: maybe some “twinning’ of Sponsorship with bigger clubs. Ditto schools: why not open them as activity centres to help parents get back to work. Utilising outdoors and sporting venues eases social distancing pressures, and parents could help out resourcing ….

Is a distinct lack of clarity, leadership, honesty and creativity from both Government and Media.

On the personal front it really doesn’t seem all that different for us. My parents and Sands mum continue to do well. My parents have enjoyed being able to drive out and have a picnic, and remain in good spirits. Good think for us is that we can now walk the dogs together and get back to long walks. Currently up to 4 miles (target is 5) and Hollie is doing really well.