Nevertheless, the colourful signs of Spring do generate optimism and hope that this might be the advent of a glorious long hot summer.
My Lenten readings for today suggested taking a look at the changing natural world outside and ascertaining how these changes would affect me. Gone were the dull grey skies of the beginning of week with bright blue skies eventually giving way to a splendid sunset.
The effect of this fine day was one of optimism and a raising of spirits dulled by the claustrophobic effects of lockdown in a North Derbyshire winter. On Wednesday, I travelled out of Buxton for (I think) the first time this year. Unnecessary journeys are illegal right now; medical appointments are allowed. How I wish that my opticians were in Cornwall, except that hotels remain closed! Nevertheless, driving to Bakewell to have my eyes checked was a pleasure, that is until I was told that, despite no deterioration in the condition of my eyes, there was slight diabetic damage to the retinas (which can be reversed) meaning an immediate end to the occasional apple crumble, cake, that rare taste of ice cream, toasted tea-cakes, and a special treat of malt loaf. Annoyingly, this means I will have to “pass” on the cake Freda has kept safe for me since Christmas!
As ever, the weekend has arrived with the speed of a light-switch.
Lockdown has created alternative opportunities, and for the first time, I am able to take a seat in the main bedroom which until two days ago was covered with stuff which is now safely stored in the loft, from whence this came originally when roof repairs were carried out…some years ago!Returning a room to its original purpose is “uplifting” but, there is still much to be done. However, along with just about everybody else, I do look forward to the eventual end of lockdown, I believe, in the middle of June. I have a haircut booked for 15th April. I can’t wait!
Many thanks for reading, David, 19.05hrs 26th February 2021.
David's Cruise 