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

— @HaggardHawks

Initially, I did not want to be caught up in the rush of everyone downloading theirs. Then, I did not really feel that I needed one, as I wasn’t going anywhere and no one was asking for the proof. But yesterday, I decided to finally download my vaccination certificate. It took about a minute, went smoothly, and my shining certificate is on my phone and computer.

I am convinced that the reason my love is recovering at such speed and that neither I nor the three people we saw last weekend have developed any COVID-19 symptoms is because we are all vaccinated. The data has been showing for many months now that in the overwhelming majority of cases the vaccines save lives and prevent the worst of the disease, if not infections all together, and now, I have experienced this on my own flesh. Still no symptoms.

Quarantine has been calmer than my usual days, but busy. I had a lovely, long Zoom chat with a Karavan Press author – she is working on a new book, and together, we are contemplating a new project.

We have finalised the financial statements for André’s literary trust. I did other admin for projects I am involved in. Some editing. And my pool is almost sparkling again. Ready for the summer. But summer is slacking. I am loving the Ballard/Bosch thriller, but am trying to pace myself, so that the ending does not come too soon. Although I have many more amazing books at home waiting to be opened. So, no worries there.

Today, the fabulous book people of Liberty Books are celebrating their first anniversary of making book lovers happy in their beautiful shop at the Peregrine Farm Stall. When you buy books at the bookshop today, you will receive a stunning tote bag with your purchase. From tomorrow on, the bag will be available to buy for R80 (or free if you buy books for R500 or more, basically when you do your Christmas book shopping). The image on the bag is a drawing of their iconic book nook. See their Instagram account for details, and GO BUY BOOKS! They have a fantastic selection, including Karavan Press titles.

Happy anniversary to one of the best bookshops in the world!

Can’t wait to visit again when I am out of quarantine.

Be kind. Wear a mask. Support local. Get vaccinated, please.

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

— NICD