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

— @HaggardHawks

I might be back home, but in my head, I am walking with Felix and Thobile around Oudrif. The return home has not been easy – there is just so much happening. Nothing gigantic, but all the small tasks and responsibilities and deadlines that channel into a sense of restlessness. I saw my counsellor yesterday and that helped. Lester was in town for a workshop and we could chat briefly and have a quick bite beforehand. Also good for the soul, and in the evening, I cooked dinner for dear friends – which was absolutely wonderful. But I might have had a bit too much wine :)

One of Topolino’s warning signs came on yesterday when I was turning into the garage and I dread to find out what it means. Especially since the water in our area has been switched off yesterday without any warning and my ancient washing machine could not cope with the sudden challenge in the middle of a cycle. I wasn’t home to save it in time and now it is broken. These things always happen simultaneously. And to cope with one at a time is already difficult enough. I still haven’t managed to replace my damaged desktop computer …

New Covid-19 regulations are in place and the state of disaster should be coming to an end soon. Even though it is allowed now, I still could not walk without my mask outside yesterday. By now, I understand that the risks are minimal or non-existent in this context, but there is something about the habit of having your mask on when you are among strangers that makes me feel safe(r).

I am sorry that even with a vaccination mandate, theatres and other indoor venues cannot be filled to capacity. The arts industry is surviving on a prayer.

I wish surviving would transform into thriving …

Good literary news: I am picking up the latest Karavan Press title from the printers today. And tonight, we are celebrating Karen Jennings and her An Island at EB Cavendish. I can’t wait.

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

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

— NICD