Spain in lockdown - Day 17

The days are rolling round incredibly quickly which is useful given the situation.  However I'm at an age where it's important not to wish my life away, so although I'm really looking forward to this all being over I'm living in the moment as well and making the most of things.  And it seems our opposite neighbours are taking the same approach.  I've mentioned our party animal neighbours on the first floor but yesterday the elderly couple on the third floor who we also wave to and greet every evening, put out some balloons and a banner saying that it was her 80th birthday.  What a time to have a milestone birthday 😞  Anyway, when it was time for the 8pm applause, out they came sporting an extremely large glass as you can see!  I called across wishing Happy Birthday and commenting on the glass - apparently it's for his 'gin tonic' 😂🍹 I think we'll all need one that size once this is over!  The neighbours on the first floor were all ready to party and made sure that all the street within shouting distance were aware.  Everyone sang Happy Birthday and had a bit of a dance while the birthday girl, all in pink, soaked up the attention, like the Queen, on her balcony.  So happy 80th birthday Antonia, here's to many more!!

On a shopping trip to Eroski this morning I noticed that more people are wearing masks this week than before.  Apart from walking to the grass with the dogs where there are next to no people, this was the first time I'd been to a 'busier' area since last week and I really noticed it.  Not sure if it makes any difference if you maintain the correct social distance and I certainly don't feel the need to wear one, and as I don't have one that's probably as well!

Eroski is pretty well-stocked and very civilised.  A member of staff is spraying and cleaning the trolley handles and the plastic gloves are compulsory.  They've also added plastic screens in front of the cashiers to better protect them.  And there's no messing at the tills, no sir-ee.  You are very quickly told where to stand (on each of the taped lines, 2m apart) and woe betide you if you try to put your groceries on the conveyor belt before the previous customer's have been dealt with.  But I know the rules and was exemplary today; did I detect an appreciative glance from the cashier over her mask?  I think I did.  Mind you, it wasn't so difficult as the customer before me had extraordinary difficulty with her bananas, returning with unlabelled ones from the fruit aisle whence she was dispatched not once, but twice.  We've all been there 😳 but once we graduate into knowing the score (you have to bag, weigh and label with the correct price if you're wondering - it's a 'thing' with Eroski), how we love to stand there rolling our eyes and tutting to each other when someone hasn't done it.   Today I waited perfectly behaved on my 2m line and smug in the knowledge that my onions were perfectly bagged, weighed and labelled and after all, I had nothing better to do but wait 😇 Yes, I'm certain I got an appreciative glance.

On the way back from Eroski the police had just set up a roadblock on the main road by the petrol station.  All cars going out of the port were being stopped and spoken to.  As far as I'm aware no-one here is of the opinion that this is heavy-handed policing and yet I see the police in the UK are getting criticised for example, for putting notices on people's cars telling them they have travelled too far and to return home, or for putting up drones to film people walking in beauty spots far from home.  Apparently people don't like being checked up on and told the regulations.  Well suck it up buttercup!  There has never been a more important time to do as we're told for once so let's just get over ourselves and co-operate. 

 
Today my domestic goddess crown slipped somewhat but it did so to enable me to do quite a lot of studying Spanish today so that's alright!  I have a Spanish course book that I use to supplement my classes and meeting a Spanish friend once a week; I say use but the reality is that I haven't used it as much as I should by a long shot if I'm honest.  Well now, with a bit more effort, I'll finish this one in the next couple of days and be able to move on to the next one which I already have (I'm an optimist lol).  It's really good to revise some aspects of grammar as well as practise my listening with the CDs that accompany the course.  I really want to gain something from all of this, not just survive it.  And working on my Spanish seems like one way to achieve this.  

The rest of the day has been filled with watching tv and reading.  And compared to what the healthcare workers and emergency services are doing, that really seems a very easy gig.  Keep smiling everyone, we can do this!  Hasta mañana todos!

Spain in lockdown - Day 16

Still here, still busy, still cheerful.  That about sums it up really!  We're all still here aka 'at home' and it seems many of us are keeping busy.  But cheerful?  That's a thing that some people will be finding harder than others and of course for any of us it can vary from day to day.  But I have chosen to be active and cheerful, mainly because it's actually easier to bear these strange times we find ourselves in whilst in that frame of mind.  And it's given me something to think about for when all this is over.  I'm sure I'm not alone in that this enforced period of time at home has provided an opportunity for reflection which must be unprecedented for a very great many of us.  As some of you may know, I'm an English teacher and 'Lord of the Rings' by J.R.R. Tolkien would be my book choice if I were ever to be on Desert Island Discs.  This quote from it really sums up the current situation we find ourselves in, so I thought I would share it here.

Today I was up bright-eyed and bushy-tailed for my 10am online gym class which was a tough one today and I cursed Rachel, my instructor, just the same as I do when we're all together.  And as I slogged through it, doing impossible numbers of strength exercises all I could hear besides Rachel's voice was the loud and sonorous snoring of one of our dogs who was asleep nearby.  Now I don't normally get that at the gym!  Afterwards and as I was well warmed up, I went on the running machine for a cheeky 3km trot.  With this and dog toilet walking I've managed just over 7,000 steps which is not bad.  I listen to music whilst using the treadmill and it passes the time very well 😎 🎧

The weather today has, shall we say, not been kind.  Rain and thunder this morning and through lunchtime.  I made a dash for it with the dogs for their toilet walk between downpours.  The sky was laden with heavy grey clouds and the thunder from the direction of Alcudia was not like any I've ever heard before; instead of a clap or even a roll of thunder it was just one long continual rumble but quite loud and it went on for minutes on end.  Sadly I just misjudged things and was forced to dive for cover into a nearby doorway, dogs in tow.  So all afternoon we have had the gentle and heady aroma of damp dog.  Which was nice. 

I spent more time this afternoon putting work up in my online classrooms, reading, colouring and watching a movie.  I've also started playing Quiz Planet online on Facebook which is quite a fun general knowledge quiz.  You challenge a friend or family member, choose a topic and answer three questions against a timer.  They then answer those questions but can't see your score, and finally they choose the topic for the next round.  Five rounds later and you have a winner.  Good fun, give it a try if you like that sort of thing. 

Tonight the late night pharmacy is the one on the corner opposite us.  It's currently 9.45pm, the green cross signs are lit and the staff are there for those who need them.  It's a timely reminder of those here and in the UK who are working tirelessly and in often risky conditions to take care of us all.  I understand that a British newspaper is leading a campaign for a medal to be awarded to NHS staff once this is all over.  This or something very similar seems like an excellent idea to me 👍

Stay strong everyone and hasta pronto!

Spain in lockdown - Day 15

Our third Sunday in lockdown and time seems to be trundling along at a pretty satisfactory rate which is a good job given that we have two more to go at the very least.  Personally, I can't see all this being magically over on Easter Sunday so mentally I'm in it for the long haul.  Numbers of people with or dying from Covid-19 in Spain continue to rise so there doesn't seem much alternative.  However we're both finding plenty to do so we're just accepting the need to sit it out for as long as it takes.  And it may take some time.  But we can do it.  We can all do it.

Today's clocks going forward was, for once, pretty handy wasn't it?  We all have one hour less in lockdown.  To be honest I'm not sure it makes a helluva difference but hey, celebrate the small stuff 😄 Sundays are 'bacon butties for breakfast' day so we got off to a promising start.  As all the weather forecasts here appeared to have got it wrong by promising rain, we then sat on the roof terrace in some warm sunshine, reading and generally doing not a lot.  

Next up, the job we've put off for a few days now through fear.  I'll explain.  Previously I mentioned hairdressers and how busy they're going to be once all this is over!  Well, we have two Lhasa Apso dogs both as cute as buttons and with a useful attribute of being non-shedding which given that Ian is allergic to dog hair, is quite useful.  And we don't get dog hair rolling like tumbleweed around our apartment either.  But what we do get are two hearthrugs on legs if they don't go to the dog groomers every 6-8 weeks max.  We have some really good dog grooming clippers which we bought 3.5 years ago just before moving out here to live, but have never used them because we found somewhere to have them done professionally.   But the time had come for us to face giving it a go ourselves.  A couple of YouTube videos later and a strong cup of tea and we were ready and braced.  And you know what?  It actually went very well.  We did the better behaved dog first, with Ian on clipper duty and me with scissors.  Here she is looking rather depressed about it which we thought most unfair.  

Anyway, we now have two much less hairy dogs who don't look embarrassing (to our incredulity as much as theirs!) and two very relieved doggy parents.  Result 👌

Aside from this, today I did plenty of work on my Spanish so am feeing very virtuous.  I was brave and grappled with some grammar issues so feel I actually went above and beyond.  I also did a spot more colouring and am beginning to get why people find it so relaxing.  Just focusing on choosing colours is really soothing for the mind.  If you haven't tried it already, give it a go.

We had a lovely roast dinner this evening whilst watching a movie and only just remembered the applause at 8pm because it was still so light outside.  And now we can clearly see people on their balconies and down the road at last; previously it was all in the dark and we couldn't see a lot of people properly.  The police did several trips past us with blues and twos on and the neighbours, to celebrate being now easily able to see each other, played some music, danced and did a Mexican wave - as you do! 💃🎶🎉

Tomorrow is the first day during the lockdown that people with non-essential occupations such as builders and construction workers, will not be allowed to work.  Only essential workers are allowed to work from here on and quite right too; it's been difficult to understand why building work can continue at this time, not to mention stressful to put up with for people living in close proximity to it.  

Take care everyone and remember, in the words of Missy Elliott:

Hasta pronto! 😎

Spain in lockdown - Day 14

Well, here we are after two weeks and half way through......as far as we know because I suspect this will change.  However, for now we are officially 50% there which is something of a milestone.  

And to help us celebrate the weather was....well.....it was rubbish 😦 we awoke to pouring rain - which was nice.  To be fair it dried up by lunchtime but the weather remained pretty meh!  

Today saw me in full flight teacher mode, setting up online classrooms and inviting my students into them.  The setting up takes a bit of time and whiled away a happy hour or three but was very satisfying and a reminder of life as it was until two weeks ago.  

Both of us used the running machine today which is fast turning into one of our most useful and timely purchases ever.  We bought it just before Christmas and we got a reasonable one, with various programmes and extras, vowing that we would both use it.  And we did.  But now we are both using it daily and it really is a godsend, especially as, unlike in the UK, we are not allowed to go outside our homes for any exercise.  Having a dog does help and we've all laughed about exhausted dogs who are getting more walks than ever before but the reality is that there is now a general police ruling here that you can only go 50m from your home to walk your dog.  The central government says 400m and they are 'top dog' (sorry, couldn't resist!) but are you really going to argue with a Spanish police officer?!  No, me neither!  They've stopped a number of people walking their dogs and told them to go home.  My first encounter came today when crossing the road to the nearest grass (more than 50m) which is the only place our two will do their business.  We spoke in Spanish and he was polite but firm that I could indeed take them there but must be sure to return straight home.  And you can be sure that I did just that! 😳

We've spent an exciting Saturday night watching a movie and reading.  Oh and doing the 8pm applause for key workers 👏 which goes without saying now.  The UK really should do it every night too, and not just on the proposed Thursdays.  The police now do a regular drive through of the main streets with their blues and twos at the same time and the noise levels from the surrounding balconies and roof terraces goes right up when they make their appearance.  We all call and wave across to neighbours and then all vanish back into our homes until the next night.  But it's a good way to account for people.  One couple opposite are quite elderly and we're always very pleased to see them out on their balcony and joining in. 

We are making regular video calls to our family as well as receiving a lot of messages from friends in the UK.  Quite a few are becoming quite frightened by what they see developing and the news coverage isn't helping as the reality of this pandemic sinks in.  But it's important that we all obey the guidelines as this is the only way we can get through this.  And we will.  Stay safe everyone.  Hasta luego!

Spain in lockdown - Day 13

So not only Prince Charles but Boris Johnson and his Health Secretary have caught Covid-19 - didn't see that one coming I must admit!   Here in Spain, the closest it's got to people like that are the wife of the Prime Minister and the deputy Prime Minister.  I really hope that this news has made people pause for thought though.  This situation is serious and maybe now, those who weren't taking it seriously before will do so, fingers crossed!

Gents - this many not be of interest so feel free to skip this part but - how is everyone doing on the hair and beauty front?  My hair is layered and I also have a fringe and as luck would have it (not!), I needed at the very least the fringe done just when the lockdown started.  Sooooo.... I've had to trim my fringe myself.  At my age I couldn't afford to get it wrong and risk looking like someone from the deep South of the Yoonited States in the 1970's so have gingerly chipped away at it and I think it's all good.  Having said that, one of the first things I will do once this is over is book to get my hair cut.  But at least I don't colour my hair.  I know that this is a big issue for many women and, quite possibly, men (just think Philip Schofield or John Barrowman before they went silver fox).  And make up - ok, I've never worn much but I'm continuing to 'do' my face.  Even walking the dogs with hardly anyone about, I simply refuse to not present myself as me and I have not once slobbed about the house in my pj's (which would be interesting as I don't have any 😳).    It's important to maintain a sense of self whilst the world around us is in chaos and coronavirus is not going to turn me into someone who doesn't care about my appearance.  And I don't think that's shallow.  Perhaps in these times of uncertainty and anxiety (as I reflected on yesterday) we should do everything possible to look after ourselves and feel as good as possible.  I can't do anything about the lockdown but I certainly can do something about still looking and feeling like me.

Today was an hour long online Fit Training class with my gym instructor followed by another few kilometres on the running machine.  Ian then took a car trip to Lidl for a proper shop.  I was quite envious of him going on such an adventure as I haven't seen outside a couple of blocks from our house for two weeks.  The result of his efforts was pretty successful until I unpacked some pork he'd bought.  I asked him why he'd bought slices of pig's head  😱 - he really does have to learn some basic Spanish 😂   

And today my pleas of yesterday were answered as we had sunshine and blue skies (if a little breezy) which was lovely.  We sat on the roof terrace with tea and lemon cake (the result of my efforts at domestic goddessing yesterday) and it was wonderful.  Determined to keep my domesticated credentials at an all time high, I did a gardening session with Ian, re-potting the 'babies' from various succulents and cacti.  

I then did my third webinar of the week learning more about various platforms for teaching online and setting up virtual classrooms etc.  Cue a happy hour or so afterwards working on that in the hopes that I can at least provide some continuity for some of my students.  I really look forward to school starting again sometime but I fear it will almost be the end of term by the time it does.  In fact at the moment I can't see the lockdown here finishing on the extended date of 12 April but....we shall see soon enough.

I hope everyone is keeping well and managing to keep smiling.  Stay safe and hasta pronto!

Spain in lockdown - Day 12

How's it going for everyone?  I've been reflecting on this strange situation we all find ourselves in and can't help but think that those of us who grew up in the 60's, 70's and 80's might be better equipped to deal with lockdown than the millennials ie. those who grew up in the 90's, 00's and 10's.  A sweeping statement and of course it's a big generalisation but bear with me.  When I grew up, we spent hours playing on our own either in the garden, building dens, making up stories, reading.  There were 3 or maybe 4 TV channels, VHS (or Beta, remember them?!) tapes that you had to treat with care and vinyl or cassette tapes for pre-recorded music. Does anyone remember listening to the Chart Show on a Sunday evening with a blank cassette tape primed and ready, recording the tracks you liked as they came up? 🎧  And a pencil was a necessary part of the kit....😂 Anyway....boredom was a natural part of the deal and you made your own entertainment.  Does this give us an advantage?  Society has changed with entertainment on tap via hundreds of TV channels and internet platforms, easy access to any music, online games..... the list is endless.  But of course we are all staying connected and entertained by the very medium that allows all of this - the internet.  As a friend said to me (via WhatsApp!) "Isn't the internet the best thing ever?"  I think she might be right.

Some people I know have spoken of feeling anxious during these challenging times due to changes in financial circumstances, worry for a loved one who may be vulnerable, fear of their own health, fear of isolation - the list is endless.  But anxiety, as a result of fear, is a word that keeps popping up.  Stay in touch with people, reassure, support.  A friend of mine makes wonderful little paintings on stones and I have quite a few tucked in amongst my plants.  This is one that I think should resonate with a lot of people, it certainly does with me 😍

Today I started with an online Tabata class for an hour with my gym instructor.  My husband joined me and managed to survive his first ever class, bless him!  One of our dogs watched from a safe distance but the other got very excited and tried to join in which was an entertaining distraction but both we, and the dog, survived.  As I was in the exercise mood I then took to the running machine and did a cheeky 3km run on that.  Feeling virtuous I got changed in time to take the dogs for their lunch time toilet walk in some quite serious rain - oh joy 😒 Still, it was nice to get out in the fresh air.

This afternoon I attended another webinar for teachers - it's great to keep learning professionally.  As I've said, the internet can be used for such positive things and the opportunity to learn and study online is not to be missed - have a browse and see what's out there!

In line with my newly acquired domestic goddess status, this afternoon I also baked a cake using one of the lemons we grew on our little lemon tree this year.  On a grey, wet, miserable day like today it has gone down very nicely with a cup of tea I can tell you.  As a result my husband is currently wondering where his wife is and what someone has done with her.  

Tonight's applause for key workers at 8pm saw two police cars with blues and twos on, driving round the Port which was lovely.  Personally I'm still waiting for them to pull up, jump out and sing and dance for us like they did in Algaida (near Palma) in the video that went viral but maybe I'm just being demanding.

We ended the day by watching a film and keeping warm with the gas fire on.  The rest of March is forecast to be pretty chilly by Mallorca standards and it's looking none too sunny into April either although at least the temperatures are going up then.  Ah well, something to look forward to.

Stay safe and hasta pronto! 😎

Spain in lockdown - Day 11

Well we're still here, still talking to each other (always a bonus!) and still keeping busy.  It's important to have some sort of structure to the day and we are careful to get up at our normal time, shower, get dressed and take the dogs on their morning toilet walk.  Admittedly the dogs help because they need us to take them out, but only one of us can do so and yet we both make sure we're up and ready to face the day.  It's definitely a good idea to keep these little normal routines going as it helps remind you of life before the restrictions.  And it won't be such a shock when the lockdown ends - and it will, we just have to unite and see it through.

Today I was giddy with excitement as a trip to the big Eroski was necessary and currently supermarket trips are something to look forward to, even lugging the bags back home.  All was calm, no queue necessary, plastic gloves, most things available.  Frozen veg and imported frozen items plus a few refrigerated items are in short supply but that's all.  The cashiers are very strict and only allow one person's items on the conveyer belt at a time and woe betide you if you step inside the marked lines on the floor.  

Today I did some colouring.  I know this is all the rage but although I enjoy art I've just never had time to try it but there are some lovely pictures to colour in one of the activity books that my eldest daughter sent me for Mother's Day.  So I rummaged around, found some coloured pencils and off I went and I'm quite proud of the result - it's a snail on a snazzy mushroom.  Oh come on, cut me some slack, it is day 11 after all!

After lunch I continued my domestic goddessing and tackled our shelving unit where we keep some DVDs but more importantly, our collection of vinyl.  Everything was emptied out, unit moved and cleaned behind and under and then replaced.  I had a blast if I'm honest, looking at lots of the albums and singles and with all sorts of memories attached to them. 

Music has always been my 'thing' and doing the show on English Radio Pollensa is such a joy and I miss doing it.  But I've now reminded myself of some brilliant tracks for future shows so - result! 🎶 🎧

Another activity today was a webinar about online teaching run by Trinity College and exam board in London.  For one hour I took part, making notes and learning some really useful stuff.  There's another on Friday about online teaching tools and I might attend one tomorrow too (well, I think my diary is free 😂 ) about online breakout rooms, which given our current restrictions appeals to my rather warped sense of humour.... think about it.....there you go, you got it!

I really HAVE to find the time to do more work on my Spanish in the next couple of days.  Currently I'm filling my time rather too well and I didn't even do any exercise today, near mind the Spanish.  Before the lockdown I used to meet a Spanish friend once a week for a chat in Spanish for 30 minutes and then English.  It's a brilliant way to become proficient.  And I also miss my Spanish classes via the town hall.  So my efforts tomorrow will focus on an exercise class and Spanish.  Let's see if I manage to do it!

If you're in the UK, I hope you're settling into some sort of routine in these strange times.  I see that the call for NHS volunteers has been phenomenal which is brilliant!  If we pull together we can do this! 💪 Hasta mañana!

Spain in lockdown - Day 10

So we made it into double figures and are totally nailing this ✊ mornings are generally housework and exercise.  Afternoons are more leisurely.  But I just don't have enough time to do all the things I have lined up to keep me busy which is rather a nice feeling with three more weeks stretching before us.  Everything here continues to work very well, police are ever present, shops are pretty well stocked and more or less everyone seems to obey the rules.  I have seen that this might not be the case in the UK though and it seems quite a lot of people are very worried, angry and frightened by this.  We will have to see how things develop there but I don't think we've heard the last of changing UK lifestyle regulations somehow.

Today was much colder and very windy, in fact the wind was so noisy it woke me during the night.  The weather isn't being particularly cheering to us all during this lockdown but then again it could be said that the lovely weather in the UK isn't helping people to stay in so perhaps we should do a swap.  Some of the photos I've seen of the UK at the moment are glorious.  Today was also the day that my middle daughter was due to come out for nearly a week 😞 mind you, she'd have had pretty rubbish weather here and hopes to come instead in July over her birthday IF things are back to normal by then.  We can but hope.  The news that the Olympics has been postponed, whilst unsurprising, really has brought home how international this whole situation is.  

This morning I nailed the exercise effort with one hour of a weights class online and then a 35 minute run on the running machine.  If I'm not next level fitness at the end of this, there ain't no justice!  And during the run I listened to music so all in all I had a pretty good morning.  

The lunchtime dog walk was cold, solitary and blustery.  But I really enjoyed it.  I've got used to the deserted seafront and restaurants.  The tractor is out working on the beach down from the Stay restaurant every day, clearing the sand etc as usual at this time of year and it's a symbol of hope that things will return to normal despite the tapes around the forlorn and deserted children's play area.

After lunch I played with technology trying to see if the radio show I do with Graham every Saturday could go ahead this coming weekend via Facebook but due to various issues, it isn't possible sadly.  But it was good fun for a brief while and by the time this was done the afternoon was as good as over.  Cue my continuing development as a domestic goddess - I informed a startled Ian that I would cook this evening (he's the cook in this house, mainly because I work 4 afternoon/evenings a week normally).  I made a rather tasty - if I say so myself -  chicken and vegetable pie topped with mashed potato with a touch of grated cheese.  I got a big thumbs up from him but I think Ian's domestic god crown is safe long term if I'm honest.

We watched a bit of TV this evening and, of course, joined in the applause for the key workers at 8pm with our little dog Alfie barking along as he always does.  This evening a police car came slowly down our street just in time to meet a youth on one of those electric scooters coming out a side street.  Cue cheers from all the onlookers as they questioned him as to why he was out.  They let him go with no fine so clearly he passed muster.  The town hall has also now started spraying disinfectant through the streets from a trailer spray doodah towed behind a tractor in the evenings.  That should certainly discourage anyone from a sneaky evening stroll even if they were willing to risk the police 😳

I really hope that anyone reading this in the UK has found the first day under the new rules ok.  Embrace it for what it is, relax into it, abide by the rules and save lives.  Ironically, despite the isolation of all this, we have never needed each other more.  Stay safe.  Hasta luego!

Spain in lockdown - Day 9

Nearly into double figures now and life has now settled into a kind of routine.  It's surprising how quickly we've got used to this new 'normal'.  Being able to just go out and do the simple things such as have a coffee, buy something other than food or toiletries, have a beer/wine and a chat - everything that is now denied us seems so recent and yet so long ago.  And the prospect of doing it again seems so far off that I'm not sure how we'll all respond when the lockdown lifts.  Will we all rush out to make merry or sit like stunned sheep trying to remember how?  We will see.

Today started with plenty of exercise with weights and then a session on the running machine, so much so that this together with a couple of dog toilet walks means I've done nearly 8,000 steps today despite the lockdown.  Result!  Then we sat in the sun on the roof terrace, read and listened to the radio.  It's the simple things 😎  

Today whilst doing the dogs' lunchtime toilet walk I rather enjoyed my solitary journey from our home to the grass at the car park next to the marina.  As I stood waiting for our temperamental Tally to find the perfect place, moment, wind speed, wind direction and angle of the sun to do her number twos 💩 I noticed all the lovely flowers that have now appeared when normally they don't because too many people trample over them and they don't stand a chance.  As we have seen elsewhere it seems that, given the chance, Mother Nature bursts forth when humans back off.  As I say, it's the simple things......

This afternoon was games and binge-watching The Killing and I am proud to announce that we have lost our box set virginity by finishing the first series (three more to go - where will we find the time 😂).  Also more housework and I am rapidly becoming the domestic goddess - well sort of - I always knew was in there somewhere, ahem!  If I see dust, it's gone.  If I see a smear, it's wiped.  The novelty factor will fade by about the third week I suspect, but for now it's all good.  Ian meanwhile, as the usual cook in our home, is producing a great meal each evening.  If we need to do food shopping we take it in turns; Ian went to the big Eroski today and returned quite giddy from having joined a small queue waiting to enter (Monday morning rush) as it was more people in one place than he'd seen in a week.

As I write, Boris has just made his announcement that the UK is finally in lockdown although exercise is allowed outside the home once a day unlike here, so now I have lockdown envy!  It does seem a little Lockdown Lite but let's see what happens next.  It strikes me it will be hard to police and that people will take advantage of that.  There are plenty of police here, with military to back them up but sadly there just aren't enough police in the UK.  What strange times we are currently living in.  One day this will be the stuff of major historical events but what makes it so extraordinary is that it is history that will apply to most of the countries in the whole world, more so even than the World Wars.  Very thought provoking.....

Take care wherever you are and stay safe.  Hasta pronto!

Spain in lockdown - Day 8

Happy Mother's Day (where applicable!).  Well it's been widely reported that the lockdown here is to be extended for 15 days until 12 April.  It still has to be ratified by the government but I can't see that this will change.  So we have a further three weeks to go but it isn't a problem and frankly I'd have been astonished if this had been different.  And staying in has become the new norm.  So many worse things could happen to us that this really doesn't seem to be the worst thing in the world.  It's important to stay as positive as we can, keep busy and stay connected with people via the internet, social media, video calls, calling across to neighbours - whatever it takes.  

Today started with a video call from my eldest daughter to wish me a Happy Mother's Day which was lovely.  She had sent me a really thoughtful gift via Amazon of two activity books filled with word searches, crosswords, things to colour, logic puzzles, the list is endless! - one of them a little irreverent shall we say 😝😂 but I've started to use them already and they will certainly help to fill some time. 

Today's weather is grey, slightly thundery and wet - just what we need to lift our spirits  - not!  And to rub it in, it seems as if the weather in the UK is just glorious with blue skies and sunshine.  Of course the problem with that is that people are tempted to go out and make the most of it, and it seems many are just not taking the advice regarding social distancing etc seriously thereby frightening those people who are more vulnerable.  We've also seen photos of horrendous queues mainly outside Tescos branches for some reason - it would seem that it's not so much 'every little helps' as 'everything I can lay my hands on helps'.  There's plenty in the shops to buy here and no queues.  Just sayin'.........

As a Sunday treat we binge watched 5 episodes of The Killing box set.  Only 6 more to finish Season 1 😳  It's certainly good entertainment and helped time fly by but I still have no idea how anyone finds time to watch box sets in normal circumstances!  Mind you, with three more weeks ahead of us it seems it's something we're going to get used to quite soon.

I spoke via video call to each of my children (plus my granddaughter) today and then they all rang me at once so cue mayhem and general lunacy as we played with the camera effects.  WiFi and social media really are a godsend during these strange and challenging times.

So, after one week in lockdown, what have we learned so far?

• dogs are very useful in the event of lockdowns - walkies! 🐕 💩
• there are only so many times you can clean an apartment
• I'm improving at Sudoku
• exercise sessions on roof terraces are THE place to be seen
• lockdowns are a good chance to use up toiletries that hang about in the bathroom such as conditioner or shampoo that you don't much like - after all, who's going to see you?!
• our neighbours opposite on the first floor are party animals
• did I mention there are only so many times you can clean an apartment?
• music lifts the spirits
• the 8pm applause session is the new 'going out'

Hope all is well with you and yours - hasta mañana! 

  

Spain in lockdown - Day 7

Well hallooooooo!  Hope everyone is doing ok and trying to keep smiling 😁 I determined from the beginning to keep a focus on the positives and so far, so good.  In fact I'm keeping so busy that some of the things I intend to do each day, I'm having to hold over until the next so yay, go me!  The wider picture now is that the police are being much stricter now on the basis that people should by now know the score.  Today (and I think yesterday) they had a roadblock at the metal cockerel roundabout by Pollensa to prevent people from driving off to their second homes/fincas.  I understand the army were doing the same in Palma.  There are no more excuses and nor should there be.  

On a brighter note, the police last night drove down our street with their sirens on as a greeting back to us as we stood on our balconies, roof terraces and at windows applauding - fantastic stuff 👏

This morning I finally used our rather good running machine and did a brisk 3km walk.  Ian used it after me so thank god we bought it.  We use it anyway (not one of those purchases you make with good intentions but never use in this instance) but in these strange times it really is a godsend to be able to cover some distance in our own home.  We then sat on the roof terrace with a cup of tea and a book each in some rather lacklustre sun which soon disappeared and we clouded over again.  Rain is forecast for tomorrow which is a pity, we could all do with some sunshine right now.

Meanwhile over the road, our neighbours on the opposite first floor were feeling festive as you can see!

I asked if one of them had a birthday but no, just having a party.  You just have to love the Spanish love of life! 🎉🎈

From 3pm we've been watching Rock the Lock Down on Facebook Live.  There have been some wonderful acts, there is such talent out there and it's such a shame to think of all these professional and semi-professional singers and musicians who are now out of work.  But I hope their performances are a useful  showcase for their talents.  We watched the first three hours and have dipped in and out since and haven't seen a bad one yet.  It starts again tomorrow at 3pm.  Take a look at the videos from today and/or tune in tomorrow if you want to pass the time.

Speaking of videos, today I posted on Facebook a great video of police in Algaida (near to Palma) stopping to play music and dance to a song with actions in the streets to entertain people and I'm sure it was lovely for the children to see some light heartedness amidst all the 'serious stuff'.  Absolutely brilliant! 👏

The applause here for the key workers again this evening was prolonged and accompanied by whoops and cheers.  Sadly no sirens tonight.  Maybe they're practising their action song for tomorrow 😜

All in all although we all complain about the internet, social media and our reliance on it, I think it is proving extremely useful during these challenging times, and enabling everyone to stay in touch, support and entertain each other and offer support.  Long may it continue.  Hasta pronto!

Spain in lockdown - Day 6

Well here we are again.  Now on the slippery slope to one week.  We're still talking to each other which is a bonus and have settled into a sort of routine now.  Certainly we get up promptly and get dressed and one of us takes the dogs for their morning toilet walk.  I'm sure there is a temptation to mooch around in pj's all day but I think it's better to keep things as normal as possible.  So every day I put a bit of make-up on even though just about no-one other than Ian is going to see me.  Somehow it's good for the morale.

As we see nature reclaiming what humans mess up - the water quality in Venice for example - this is also a good time to think about how we live our lives and whether we might make any changes once this is all over.  Certainly I have begun to wonder if I should spend more time just 'being'.  Bizarrely, I feel strangely empowered during these difficult times of huge restrictions on what I can do.  Something to think about.

During the way home from one of today's dog toilet walks I saw one of these homemade colourful signs complete with handprints which are up on balconies here and there, I assume where children are living.  The second picture was taken by Kay Horsnell yesterday on her way to do some shopping.  The first says literally 'Together we can with everything', probably meaning together we can do everything and uses the words of a Mexican footballer apparently.  Kay's photo shows banners saying 'It's going to be fine'.  In any event, these banners demonstrate solidarity with others and it is heartwarming to see.

At 10am today was the first of my gym instructor Rachel's live Facebook classes.  And, as ever, she took no prisoners 😳 Ian sat on the sofa and watched lol.  I couldn't do it on the roof terrace with nice breeze because the wiFi is very hit and miss up there so the living room it was and I certainly got warm!  One hour later and I felt tired but pious.  Mind you, my jump rope ability is still rubbish. 

After this I thoroughly hoovered the living/dining room and smallest bedroom whilst Ian cleaned all the windows on the roof level and all down the stairs to the street.  You could probably surgically operate on our floors right now!  The sun was shining but not as strongly as yesterday with clouds and probable rain scheduled for later which certainly looks the case as I type in the late afternoon.  The weather here really does seem to be matching the global difficulties right now.  

Following on some recommendations we saw on Facebook, we've started watching boxsets, starting with 'The Killing' (US version).  We've seen two episodes and it's looking good but have discovered that we still won't have a solution as to whodunnit at the end of the 13 episodes of series 1 and will have to battle on to series 2.  We're used to 8 episodes with a solution as is common with British TV crime dramas so are a little nonplussed.  We've never watched boxsets mainly because we've never had the time.  And we were never GOT viewers either.  I guess now is the time to stretch our application to a story to the max.

Lots of reading going on here too.  Ian has actually finished a whole book which is unprecedented as he really isn't a reader.  Never have I been more grateful for my Kindle which has loads of books on it I still have to read and when I feel like a spot of retail therapy I just have browse for another book, simples!  I had even planned to study some Spanish today and haven't got around to it so I'm definitely finding lots of things to fill the time.  Think I'll slot it into my packed schedule for tomorrow now.....

One event for tomorrow is Rock the Lock Down.  Take a look at their Facebook page.  Tomorrow at 3pm Spanish time (2pm UK time) and I believe on Sunday as well there's going to be a Facebook Live concert with musicians from all over the work taking part.  It has a hashtag #rockthelockdown.  So tune in for what promises to be a pretty amazing event with people from all over the world - together we can do this.  Juntos podemos! 💪
Take care all!

PS Tonight's applause for all the emergency, healthcare and other workers was the best yet with a police car going slowly down our street with the siren on in return.  What a fabulous community spirit!    

Spain in lockdown - Day 5

We're beginning to get the hang of this now!  The dogs are thrilled to have us at home 24/7 and we're getting loads done.  The UK news bulletin will be on soon and we'll see what Boris has to say today.  There are a lot of very worried people in the UK right now who are wondering how they'll pay the bills or keep their vulnerable loved ones safe and I know quite a few of them 😢 Information is gradually coming out much as it has done here but there does seem to be a lot of uncertainty or maybe that's just me?  This is an unprecedented situation and governments are finding their way but it is very unsettling and if I'm honest, I think I'm happier here where we pretty much know what's what and that's that. 

And the sun is shining! Yay!  Apart from the first day we've had grey days ever since lockdown started so blue sky and sunshine has certainly helped lift the mood.  We sat on the roof terrace with a cup of tea and a book each.  It's actually quite nice to spend the time doing this as usually we're too busy doing 'other stuff' - certainly food for thought once things return to normal......  We also took the opportunity to wash the rather 'doggy' smelling dogs because they could run around in the sun and breeze on the roof terrace and dry off quickly.  Both of them hate being bathed, one dog freezes and won't even look at us, the other is like trying to control a hyperactive octopus 🐙 However they are now wonderfully fragrant and have forgiven us following unashamed bribery with a couple of dog treats.

More housework today, I don't think our apartment has ever been so clean.  I've seen lots of neighbours doing housework, cleaning windows etc so the Port is going to be spick and span once all this is over.  The lunchtime dog toilet walk was in full sunshine and I took a couple of photos of the bay from near Stay restaurant which is very close to where we live so don't judge me 😛 Lots of people have been enjoying them on Facebook which is lovely - I just thought it would be nice to cheer people up with some happy photos to distract from the gloom that's all over the media at the moment.

I completed my gym's challenge up on our roof terrace again today.  Roof terraces are certainly being used at the moment as gyms, for BBQs, practising basketball shots - you name it, it's being used for it!  Then, as the domestic goddess I [currently] am 😂 I made some cheese straws as I do from time to time - delicious when still warm accompanied by a cup of tea.  For those who know me and find my culinary skills hard to believe, here's the proof:

Ian won the toss for the evening dog toilet walk so managed to stretch his legs.  So far I've been managing about 4,000 steps a day mainly due to my gym challenge.  Given that we both normally do about twice as many steps on a bad day, it's important to keep as active as possible.  We actually do have a really nice running machine which I'm going to start using in the next couple of days as I haven't since the Spartan Race on the 8th (well I deserved a break 😁).  That should see an improvement in steps and will be useful when I run out of things to clean!

The 8pm applause for the healthcare workers and others keeping our infrastructure together was as ever, an opportunity to exchange pleasantries with neighbours and is definitely a part of the day we look forward to.  Alfie (dog) again joined in with some steady but quite calm barking which is very sweet and certainly entertains the neighbours.

People are getting more and more resourceful and creative with online activities and I intend to take full advantage of them.  Tomorrow I have a Facebook Live gym class with my gym instructor at 10am so I'll let you know how that goes tomorrow.  Until then - stay safe!

Spain in lockdown - Day 4

Well here we are again!  One more day down but who knows how many still to go?  There's a fair chance that Spain will extend the lockdown here until the end of Easter week and of course this has huge implications for those of us who work or run businesses.  The government here is putting measures into place but there is still a lot of uncertainty.  And we can see that uncertainty start to unfold in the UK now too and now with the news that UK schools will close from Friday evening.  Those of you reading this in the UK - gradually the situation will start to become clearer but it's going to take time.  Still lots to iron out here and Spain is ahead of the UK in this unfortunate trajectory.

Activities today started with a walk to the Post Office to return a parcel.  Only one person is allowed in at a time and they are running restricted hours.  There are no tapes outside marking 1m apart as there are in for example the supermarkets, but everyone was standing in the queue 1m apart quite unprompted, no problems at all.  Clarel was also open with a box of tissues taped to the outside and the inside of the door to use when opening the door handle going in and out.  I was impressed at their creativity!  My final stop of the trip out was the small Eroski.  All was calm and the shop is well stocked.  Like the large Eroski, you use plastic gloves and there are restrictions on how many people can be in the store etc.  Feeling quite heady after such an exciting outing I headed home for a cup of tea which leads me to.............

.....panic buying which has been much in the news.  Apart from the pasta, rice and loo rolls situation some people have made sure they've stocked up sufficient wine and beer.  However my 'must have' is tea bags.  If I couldn't have my cups of tea I would completely lose my......well, let's just say the loo rolls would come in handy!

Dog walks remain a major highlight of the day and we are more than usually keen to offer to do them!  And as you can see, they're getting plenty of exercise 😴

It certainly is a bonus having a dog/dogs to walk and at least gets one of us out and moving.  And talking of moving we have actually done plenty of that today.  In common with a lot of others, we've started deep cleaning the apartment and today we made a very good start.  We've also done the third day of my gym challenge up on our roof terrace.  Ian's joining in and it's good fun.  We've seen another couple doing much the same on a roof terrace we didn't even know existed so we're not the only ones.  

This afternoon we also made a Skype call to Ian's younger brother who lives in Alicante.  It's his birthday today and it's a big one.  He was due to travel out with his wife and mother-in-law on Thursday for a long birthday weekend but of course that had to be cancelled.  I feel so sorry for those who are having birthdays right now, especially children who may not understand why their birthday party isn't now going to happen.

We've watched some TV and naturally, joined in with the 8pm applause for the healthcare workers and emergency services.  Our neighbours opposite always come out and we all say hello.  It is really heartwarming for about a minute every evening as we all come together, it's becoming the highlight of the day in many ways.

And so another day is over - how many more to come? Who knows.  But for now, take care and hasta mañana! 😎

Spain in lockdown - Day 3

Today (and yesterday evening) has been interesting as we've been watching the news from the UK and seeing the British public steadily being drawn into a similar situation as we are in here.  As yet, no outright lockdown as such but......   

This morning I did my gym challenge again.  We've moved the dining table over to make enough room inside for me as currently the weather is grey and wet and the roof terrace is too slippy to skip etc.  Our little dog Alfie loves to help 😂 so in the middle of doing a plank you have a small black furry face gazing up at you "Whatcha doin' mum?".  Afterwards I walked to Eroski to buy some bread and milk.  Eroski has a limit on numbers who can enter and you have to put on plastic gloves and use the taped lines on the floor to maintain distance at the tills and paying the cashier.  There are also quotes for buying rice, pasta, milk and water.  All was calm and most things were available.  

Later I took the dogs for their lunchtime toilet walk whilst Ian got a new butane gas bottle from the lorry which is still doing it's normal street deliveries thank goodness as it's still a little chilly in the evenings, especially as we aren't getting any sun during the day at the moment to warm things up.  Our butane heater is a wonderful way to get almost instant heat (and yes, we do so with sufficient ventilation for safety).  

The afternoon was spent reading and using WhatsApp to send my classes worksheets and activities to keep them busy with their English.  For those unaware, I'm an English teacher here.  I also sent some links to virtual excursions of eg The Louvre, farms tours in Canada or the surface of Mars on the Curiosity Rover.  I remember when my kids were young and hopefully it will help some beleaguered parents as well as keep their children on track with their English.  Several parents responded positively which is nice.  

During this evening's dog toilet walk (17:55) I took some photos.  It's completely deserted everywhere and 'Ghost Town' by The Specials kept coming into my head. 

The Guardia have been cruising the streets all day and are now a very obvious presence - people are being stopped and apparently asked for receipts if they've been to the supermarket for example, and fines are being issued.  This is probably why the streets are now so much quieter than in the first two days - people now know the score plus the streets are being very thoroughly policed.  

Tonight Ian cooked a lovely roast chicken meal but we put it aside at 8pm prompt to join in the clapping and cheering on balconies/at windows for all the healthcare professionals.  It was lovely, whistles and cheers - a great time to all come together and it really feels like we're all 'in it' together.

As lockdown spreads across other countries and draws ever closer to the UK, it feels like we are all extras in some sort of apocalyptic movie.  And it's very unsettling and like nothing most of us have experienced in our lifetimes.  But let's try not to complain at the regulations and all pull together.  We can do this!

Take care - hasta pronto!