OYSTERHOOD is reclusiveness or solitude, or an overwhelming desire to stay at home.

— @HaggardHawks

When in doubt, make a fire.

I knew about loadshedding, but between the confusing Eskom and City of Cape Town loadshedding stages and schedules, I was caught unawares last night just after ten. I thought I was on stage one, but it was stage two from ten onward. The. Worst. Time.

There was only one thing to do: light the fireplace. My first fire of the season. Together with a few candles, the fire and the light made it possible for me to read for a bit and eventually fall asleep. Not for long, but insomnia gaps in my nights are nothing unusual – somewhere around stage four or five, or is it level four or five for insomnia?

Anxiety levels going through the roof for most of today. But I did my job. At least the most important tasks set for the day. I only screamed at the walls of my house in despair twice in the course of today: when Salieri was being fussy about her food and when I could not find a document that I desperately need, but have somehow misplaced.

No time for tennis, although I was so eager to see Rafa play.

Highlights of the day: Skype lunch with Mom and Krystian to celebrate Polish Children’s Day (always a big deal in our family – Mom wished me some peace …), coffee with a dear friend to discuss the state of independent publishing in SA (dire), and dinner with my love (I cooked, and it was delicious, even if I say so myself).

A little bit of work awaits tonight, but nothing major any longer. Tomorrow, a lovely literary announcement!

Be kind. Wear a mask. Support local.

“Physical distancing remains one of the key strategies to curb this pandemic.”

— NICD