Hot weather, lockdown, family and writing

Lockdown thoughts

Hot weather

So, today as I write this, it is Wednesday 12^th August 2020.  It’s been a long and hot day here in the UK. The British pay good money to travel to hot weather.  Me, I’m happier in my jumper keeping out the cold.  Heat is exhausting and not helping to motivate me to entertain the children. My son has spent most of his school holiday playing computer games.  My seven-year-old has made a huge mess in her room, to the extent that I can’t reach her window. She is my creative and independent child.   Her floor is strewn with clothes, soft toys and paper.

I’ve had two weeks leave but due to COVID – 19 fears, and the heat, we haven’t been anywhere.  Tomorrow I have to attend mandatory training with resus Annie. Breathing into a resus dummy can’t be done online and yes, I’m worrying, though I do know hygiene advice will be followed.

Netflix and news

I’m sat here watching ‘The Fall’ on Netflix.  I should be researching the old West for the new ‘Writers Unite!’ writers Anthology.   I know little about westerns so I have a lot to learn.  My paranormal story was accepted this month for the Writers Unite Paranormal Anthology, I will let you know when it is published or available for pre-order.

I have just given up on ‘Ozark’ and I finished binge watching ‘Schitts Creek’. I need to write but I have too many distractions.

So, how do you nurture creativity into writing.  My daughter could win an award right now for her messy bedroom. She can also tell me a made-up story but when offered a pen and paper she refuses to write.

Both children have numerous books plus kindle’s and neither will read. I’ve been struggling with this for months and I might as well be pushing a heavy rock uphill. Is anyone else in the same situation?  I’m doing circles with them.

The figures

We are supposed to be going outside but the figures for COVID – 19 in the UK are increasing.  Everyday the thoughts of a second wave become increasingly real. Facebook forums can be source of great support but they can also fuel worry.

In normal holiday times we would have done a lot of walking. Possibly have visited places despite the hot weather. Advice from others is to get out and do things.  How do you do this what the thought of going anywhere fills you with fear?  These are not normal times, but somehow I need to get past this.

School

Plans for school in September are at the moment happening.  I’ve just watched a video from school showing the one way system and classroom.  All looks okay but the media and figures tell a different story.  I’m trying not to worry even though I am. I’m considering sending my daughter in her summer dress and black plimsolls.  Its to hot for her grey dress, shirt, tights and boots and I’m reluctant to buy new shoes in case the government decide to close schools again.  Plus come October / November time she may want to wear her boots instead.

Facebook live update

My latest Facebook live update – August 2020

Reading

I’ve just finished reading ‘The girl who lived’ by Christopher Greyson and I highly recommend it.  I’m now on ‘Suitcase Girl’ part of a series by Ty Hutchinson which, so far, is very good.

Shopping

Still to nervous to visit the supermarket I made our first order with Morrisons last week.  I received this with the order and yes I was excited.  Nice touch from Morrisons with a free gingerbread man.

Plans

So, life continues.  Back to work next week, but hoping to get out on my days off.  The weather is supposed to be cooler then.  It has been 34 – 37 degrees, this week, too hot for me!

So, how are you getting on? I’m aware that many writers are struggling right now.  There is too much going on and life has been well and truly disturbed for now.

For more see, Worry and Stress of life and my writing