This time last week, I was almost at sixes and sevens, preparing for disembarkation the next day. The morning was glorious as we sailed towards Southampton, passing the Isle of Wight, very visible from the port side of the ship. Portsmouth appeared opposite. Soon, we would be in Southampton, but, those who wished to, could stay for one or two nights, or leave the ship during Thursday afternoon for an early arrival back home. I suspect this might have been a move by Cunard to stave off claims of compensation for the voyage terminating two days early. Was all that merely a week ago? A Cruise Connect coach to Knutsford on the Friday influenced my decision to stay just one further night on board. The coach connection the following day was perfect.
One week on, and this whole voyage seems like a distant dream. That is usually the case when the reality of being back home “kicks in” usually after a day or so when the continued sensation of the ship’s movement subsides, eventually.
Nobody, anywhere, can anticipate when this pandemic will be completely over, if ever. Today, I received an e-mail which had been sent to probably one of the three people I am in touch with daily through WhatsApp. It was from a front line NHS worker describing in no uncertain terms, the horrendous realities of working in a virus ridden environment, and how very hot and claustrophobic the protective clothing is to wear, as well as the patients being utterly terrified of their situation. This e-mail was rather sobering in comparison to many of the extremely humorous sketches which really do lighten the day.
Amazingly people do get in touch mainly to have a natter and check that I am ok. This I appreciate enormously, and hopefully, I may get the opportunity to help others as I have been helped. But as the e-mail I mentioned pleaded, “please stay at home!” and I do. That is probably the best advice, as well as talk to people over the ‘phone. Writing this blog, I feel is important; in future times, it might provide some insight into what’s happening right now. Other writings will be far better, but I will endeavour to put in more detail as time progresses.
Outside, the still cool and dry weather has morphed into something less pleasant, a bit of blue sky, strong winds and a shower or two. Parsimonious warmth is hinted at for the weekend. No walking today then. I have almost finished the unpacking and down stairs can soon be tidied up.
All of a sudden, it’s past midnight. Not a lot of change today. Let’s see what Friday brings, one week after getting home. Thanks for reading, David, 00.21, Friday 3rd April 2020.
David's Cruise 