Late Nights & Christmas Lights

Hi Everyone, 

Goodbye snotty nose, cough, and dry throat! For once I am sickness-free and finally totally back to little old me again. But that might not stay as I have my COVID booster booked in this week. 

Whilst we discussed last week that many more people have been not only singularly but doubly vacc'd, some people, like yours truly has even been offered a third vaccine to protect them from this disease and all of its variants and mutations. Government figures show that so far, 89% of people aged 12 and over in the UK have had their first vaccine dose, 81% have had their second and 36% have had a booster. The BBC confirms there have been more than half a million confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK in the last week, however, the number of dead has not increased since my last blog post.

The British broadcaster's website explains in an article by James Gallagher, a Health and science correspondent, that whilst some scientists have described the new variant of  COVID19 (Omicron) as milder than earlier versions of Coronavirus, such as Delta. Although of course, it would not be fair to only listen and read up on one side of the argument. And so we need to establish that science in its very nature is rather subjective and as such, some academics in the Science industry have claimed that Omicron had such a long list of mutations that it was being described in articles as "horrific" and the worst variant they'd seen. 

Omicron, named by the World Health Organization, following the pattern of Greek code-names like the Alpha and Delta variants has now been detected in more than 30 countries and there are signs it may be able to bypass some of our immunity. Great! But a lot of mutation doesn't automatically mean: bad. It is important to know what those mutations are actually doing explains James Gallagher in the article. 

Whilst there are fears that Omicron could be more infectious and less responsive to vaccines personally feel as though the aforementioned "precautions" are being taken a little too prematurely. At least wait until scientists can properly assess what the new variant's impact could be and then jump into Hands-Face-Space-Repeat. But then I suppose if this did all blow up and went to shit we would all be blaming BoJo and his friends for not acting quickly enough. Like a lot of people I know, I am totally unnerved and somewhat untrusting of the government, especially after the shit show that was last Christmas and the close to years in totality we have now had to spent locked in, locked down, and isolated. 

All we can do is hope and pray and enjoy our freedom as it stands at the moment. And I did such that on Saturday even when, as always, I went for a nice relaxed and quiet catch-up with Miss Hackney and Miss Sugar-Coat. It was the first time since Mr Warehouse and I got married that I had seen Miss Sugar-Coat and I was excited to fill her in and hear all about her life too. But as it always happens (and I don't know why I thought this time would be any different) no sooner had our food arrived on the table at Baja, a casual Mexican restaurant in the heart of Bedford Town, we were already planning to leave. 

Not one to turn down an invite, Miss Hackney and I "joined" Miss Sugar-Coat and basically gate-crashed her work Christmas party. A good few hours of drinking ensued, several shots of Tequila and many bottles of wine and champagne, many we had not put our hand in our pocket for. It wasn't long before we were dancing on the top floor of some nightclub and stealing fresh air and conversing with all sorts of messy characters. As the night progressed, Miss Hackney and I left Miss Sugar-Coat and her colleagues to it and headed to another bar. Although we were refused entry to one, goodness knows why and nearly kicked out of another for smuggling in a bottle of Rose. Within a couple of hours though I was headfirst into a bin and remembering what my Chimichanga tasted like the first time. 

The following day I woke up, remembering how Mr. Warehouse was collecting our nieces and nephews this afternoon so we could have a Christmas craft day whilst their Mom and Dad helped "Santa" out with some last-minute bits. I had hoped that it would be a quiet afternoon in front of the telly, cuddled up with snacks watching The Grinch. I mean it worked for a little bit, and the crafts and colouring allowed me another hour or so but boredom was afoot. However, on noticing we have yet to put up our decorations there was soon "something" to do. Dreading it I was actually pleasantly surprised that the tree wasn't top-heavy being decorated all in one place with little hands. I was quite proud of my youngest Nephew, taking on the role of chief detangler of Christmas tree lights and deputy tree dresser. 

And so as I sit here now, dogs cuddled up around me and Mr Warehouse watching the football, we are sat here in the glow of the Christmas tree, all in the knowledge that had the kids not pestered me to get up from my pit and dress the house in Xmas joy and tinsel, then it would have been another weekend passing without decorations in our home. I don't know why they abolished child labour, they seem to have so much fun, and secretly, so did I. 

'Til next time, Love A.Lou x

Remember, if you would like to purchase anything then please feel free to check out my store at: https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/Wooftys or visit our Instagram @WooftysDogTreats and use "TATOATS21" to get 10% off your first order over £15.00.

Here we go again ...

Hello All, 

One week on and not only am I still recovering (mainly snotty nose, cough, and dry throat) from the flu but now my Husband has it too, although mild in comparison to moi. Positivity is on the decline as we have yet to receive a reply from Hays Travel, following my four-page letter a fortnight ago, complaining about our Honeymoon from Hell to the Continental Plaza Beach Resort Hotel Sharm el-Sheikh in Egypt. Still there is nothing as yet. But be warned Hays Travel, I am not going to be letting this one go!

Sadly to say the positivity is low this week as the world is dealt another blow from the all-consuming dread that is COVID-19. Since I last mentioned stats and news and blah blah blah back in the heady heights of summer a lot has changed. Many more people have been vacc'd, not just one but two, and some people even a third. Government figures show that so far, 89% of people aged 12 and over in the UK have had their first vaccine dose, 81% have had their second and 31% have had a booster. Barer of (mainly) bad news, the BBC confirms there have been more than 10 million confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK and nearly 145,000 people have died.

The broadcaster's news website explains that a new Covid variant - Omicron - has been identified and there are fears that it could be more infectious and less responsive to vaccines. Therefore, "precautions" are being taken until scientists can properly assess what the new variant's impact could be. Whilst the average number of daily confirmed cases has bounced around since mid-July, they have been rising again since early November and with the emergence of the new Omicron variant The UK government has decided on some new "temporary" measures being put in place as a "precaution". 

Yes, I am skeptical and yes I, like a lot of people I know are totally untrusting of the government, especially after stealing away our last Christmas and the months we have spent locked in, down, and isolated. The new restrictions, including the compulsory use of face coverings in shops and on public transport in England, come into force on Tuesday as well as anyone entering the UK will require a PCR test within 48 hours of arrival and will need to self-isolate until they receive a negative result.

As now dictated, From Tuesday 30 November 2021, face coverings will once again be compulsory in shops and on public transport in England. Pupils at secondary schools in England are being "strongly advised" to wear face coverings in communal areas, although somehow lower and high schools are totally fine??? It obviously goes without saying that any and all contact with suspected Omicron cases, originating from mainly South Africa, should be reported and you will be required to self-isolate for 10 days, regardless of your vaccination status. This goes hand in hand with the order that from 4am on Tuesday, anyone entering the UK will require a PCR test within 48 hours of arrival and must self-isolate until they have a negative result.

The aforementioned third vaccine against COVID is really just a Booster vaccine and the campaign is underway is not just for people aged over 40 or belonging to a number of other groups. It has now been extended to all over-18s to help stop a potential wave of cases driven by the new Omicron variant and with nearly 15 million booster doses already been administered in England so far (1.7 million in Scotland, 870,000 in Wales and 370,000 in Northern Ireland) were off to a good start. 

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said there are "good reasons" to believe the vaccines will provide at least some protection against the new Omicron variant and has even called on people to get their booster doses as soon as possible as "If you're boosted, your response is likely to be stronger so it's more vital than ever that people get their jabs and we get those boosters into arms as fast as possible," he said.

So, What are the chances of another lockdown? Well, the government has repeatedly said it has no plans for another lockdown in England. Although how much of that I believe is debateable and maybe in a few weeks we will revisit this blog post to see how true this really it. In September, Health Secretary Sajid Javid announced a list of measures which would come into place if the NHS came under "unsustainable pressure". These included face coverings, but also measures which have still not been brought in such as advising people to work from home and mandatory Covid passports. Who knows, Maybe BoJo and his friends will wait until we have all spent our money, bought ther presents, put up the tree and have the turkey in the fucking oven before he swipes it away from us all over again?

'Til next time, Love A.Lou x

Remember, if you would like to purchase anything then please feel free to check out my store at: https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/Wooftys or visit our Instagram @WooftysDogTreats and use "TATOATS21" to get 10% off your first order over £15.00.

Locked in and Left Left High and Dry: Part II

Heyy, 

After a poor night's sleep for fear of being trapped and locked into my accommodation if there was a fire or emergency due to the door being locked following the handle breaking the previous evening, I awoke startled. The morning after the night before was different from what I had been expecting. I had expected my first night at the garden studio at The Mills Guesthouse, with its big glass bi-folding doors and waterfall shower to be a bit more natural and easy-going, maybe even with coffee in bed thrown in for good measure. But no, my day started as it meant to go on, intense, stressful, and unexpectedly abrupt.

I arrived to work ready to tell my tales of woe from the previous evening, all sprinkled with some light-hearted humor of course. Come 10.30am I was ready for the day's meetings to begin and by 1pm I was back at the garden studio at The Mills Guesthouse, packing up to come home.

Why you may ask? Well, I had come to the decision that this whole thing simply wasn't working out as I had hoped. Now as avid readers of my blog will understand and be familiar with, I do not normally talk about work-related matters or employment. Not that this is about to change, as I am still sticking by this stance, mainly for privacy and professionalism, however, what I shall say is that I am absolutely gutted it didn't work out in the way I had hoped.

That being said, I have a new job to venture into, one a lot closer to home and where I don't have to confirm my room number every day. I will be soon joining an Air Conditioning, Plumbing, and Heating company as an Operations Coordinator in Milton Keynes. The company is somewhere I had looked at prior to my Hertfordshire working holiday, so I was familiar with the company and the setup. I now have a few days to prep myself for my new role and a new job, a breezy 20-mins from home.

And I could certainly use all the free and spare time I have at the moment as with less than 10 weeks to go until our wedding things are super GO GO GO at the moment! With last weekend and this weekend chocked full of wedding stuff including viewing the village hall again, confirming all the details with vendors, organizing catch-ups with suppliers to go through things, order of service and other wed-min items, RSVP's, and more, honestly I am stressed and shattered. I must say it does make life a little easier knowing most of the RSVP's are back now and I know how many kiddo's I need to make PAQ's for (PAQ standing for Peace and Quiet) which will include colouring books, crayons, toys, sweeties and other fun stuffs.

So along with a trip to the local pound shop for those kid-friendly bits, I have a list as long as my arm of crafts and DIY's that need to be finalized and completed. I have blankets to wrap, signs to make, table centerpieces to design, table plans to create, flip-flops to tie and make pretty, bathroom baskets to make, confetti boxes to reprint labels for and that is before I even think about all the other bits I have forgotten to include. I mean I knew weddings would be stressful but this is bordering on breakdown!

'Til next time, Love A.Lou x

Remember, if you would like to purchase anything then please feel free to check out my store at: https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/Wooftys or visit our Instagram @WooftysDogTreats and use "TATOATS21" to get 10% off your first order over £15.00.

Locked in and Left Left High and Dry: Part I

Hello Hello, 

Yes, I know. I missed last week. But honestly the week I have had ... you wouldn't be surprised.

Packing up my bag I was surprised I could fit a fortnight of clothes in my mini-case. "At least I know I could do a two-week holibobs," I thought, sadly wondering when the next time really would be given the travel restrictions still in place and the confusing rule and regulations surrounding them all. Loading it into the car I bid farewell to the pups and promised to see them at the weekend. The only difference being is that rather than me bombing it home on a Friday night with hopes of an Indian and lots of pup-snuggles, Mr. Warehouse would be bringing them down, along with himself to see me in my new accommodation.

It was going to be wonderful. And with "Freedom day" finally here my week was looking busy with plans already, meeting with Miss Tweedle-Dee and my Uncle Golf for some dinner in the week and all in the knowledge that masks were not a necessity and life was a little more back to normality. 

Ahh, yes. Freedom. Monday, 19 July 2021 in the UK has finally marked the ending of lockdowns (fingers-crossed) and with an end for all COVID restrictions, Bozza Jozza's looking pretty pleased with himself. Now don't get it twisted, I am as happy as the next person, but I do worry that this isn't it and that somehow it may all come tumbling down again. I feel as though there is still enough time for the figures to creep up and for numbers to increase so much so another lockdown could be on the cards and disappointingly I can see in coming into place right before our special day.I hope not. 

You would have been forgiven for thinking I had dumped my fiance and moved to Hertford the amount I had been staying away for work, pretty much five days a week since I started nearly 10-weeks ago was a lot for one person, especially when they had a whole life back home and a feast of family and friends that were being neglected. And all in the name of a career. But no, since I was asked to stay away for the full summer holidays in order to cover people's annual leave and childcare arrangements. I had agreed to get the company to rent a serviced apartment AirBnB type place - Somewhere I could leave a bottle of shampoo or my straighteners over the weekend, you know. 

And so I poodled on down the M1 to Hertford for another day's work, tottering off to my new abode to settle in for the evening and unpack. The Mills Guesthouse was a small self-contained studio apartment set within a seemingly large family home down a winding country road in Hatfield. Looking out onto a feature garden with a small patio terrace I was delighted to find that every room came with a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom along with a wardrobe and some very basic cooking facilities including a microwave, tiny fridge, and a kettle. Although I was happy with this and finally glad I could have even just a ready meal over takeout every night.

Unfortunately, since the landlord was going on holiday soon, I was unable to indulge in the continental or a Full English/Irish breakfast, but she seemed friendly enough and welcomed me to use the other areas of the house including the kitchen, washing machine, and conservatory when she was away. Explaining it was normally students staying she explained I would be one of the only people at the property whilst she and her family were away which was not for a few more weeks yet. I was happy and the best part was it was doggo and visitor friendly.

After calling Mr. Warehouse and showing off my new pad it was getting dark and with it being blog night I wanted to make a head start soon and get an early night, considering we both hadn't slept much the night before due to the heat. Closing the posh bi-folding doors I was confused as to why it wouldn't lock properly or shut all the way, and, after YouTubing had not helped and WikiHow had no answers for me I called the landlord. She was equally confused, probably wondering why this bimbo can't close the damned door. Following her instructions over the phone I felt a snap. I looked down and saw that the silvery metal in my hand should not have come off and should indeed still be attached to the door in which it was being used as a handle.

Explaining what had just happened the lady sounded pissed as she said she would be over in five. Panicking I didn't know what to do but wait. After she checked it out, the Landlord confirmed what I already knew. the door couldn't be locked from the inside and I would have no option but to sleep with an unlocked door. Not knowing what to do she left with promises of a locksmith to come over and fix in the next few days. As soon as she left I called my fiance. I was in floods of tears by this point, mostly from tiredness but also from panic and being scared about the night ahead.

After all the suggestions were put forward there was only one option I had left. I couldn't call anyone from work, it was half-nine at night for goodness sake, and besides what could they do. I couldn't really sleep in my car, but equally, I couldn't sleep with the door wide open. Other than going and spending a night at a local budget hotel and claiming it back on expenses there was only one other option. Another studio garden room was available on the other side of the garden so I reasoned with myself and called the women back.

Apologizing for crying and having a fucking freak-out moment, I said to her that I simply didn't feel comfortable. She tried to reassure me saying it was a good area and she was staying in the house upstairs and that really I would WANT to have the door open because of the balmy night. Once again I said that I was sorry but I didn't know the area and the room looked out onto what appeared to be a busy and popular walking spot for people and that in all fairness I didn't know her from Adam, let alone anyone else in the house or that could be staying. I wasn't too bothered about my laptop or engagement ring, I had watched far too many horror films to know that this wouldn't end well.

Realizing that the other garden studio was not an option as it wasn't set up for guests (which was a crock of shit because I snooped earlier and it was perfectly set up no problems) and with it getting close to 10pm I reluctantly agreed with the only thing left to do - Lock me in. Now I understood in my head there were other risks which would ensue, like what would I do if there was a fire or emergency and I needed to get out but by this point, I was running out of options and all bar having Mr. Warehouse trapse down here with the dogs and stay awake all night on edge waiting for Freddy or Jason to come busting down my door.

Reluctantly I agreed to be locked in like a prisoner, unbeknownst to me that it would be my one and only night staying. Ahh yes, because life has a funny way of showing you who is in control, ripping the rug right from underneath you when you least expect it ...

'Til next time, Love A.Lou x

Remember, if you would like to purchase anything then please feel free to check out my store at: https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/Wooftys or visit our Instagram @WooftysDogTreats and use "TATOATS21" to get 10% off your first order over £15.00.

It's not coming home

Evening All, 

This time next week. This time next week eh. Yes. Freedom. Hopefully. Next Monday, 19 July 2021 in the UK will mark the ending of lockdowns and an end for all COVID restrictions. Bozza Jozza's plans for the final unlocking of restrictions in England after the final stage of reopening on 21 June was pushed back, will finally come true. I truly hope so anyway, because I honestly don't know how well I or the rest of the British public will act should another country-wide lockdown happen, and god knows that Prime Minister Boris Johnson can't really go back on his word yet again, U-turning. 

In recent news, it has been reported that we have now fully vaccinated nearly 35 million people. That is 66% of all adults. 66%. A huge achievement and even more have had the single-dose awaiting their second one in the coming weeks. The success of the vaccine roll-out has meant that, despite the new Delta Indian variant of Coronavirus, there have been many days now where there have been zero COVID-related deaths. 

As Boris Johnson made his announcement during the press conference this evening he urged caution, saying the pandemic is not over and that deaths and hospitalizations from coronavirus would continue. Health Secretary Sajid Javid (Long story but basically Matt Hancock got caught cheating on his wife with some hussy from the labor party - an opposing parliamentary party, talk about sleeping with the enemy?!) has said although cases will continue to rise and he did not "believe that infection rates will put unsustainable pressure on the NHS". The BBC outlined that recent data suggests that the vaccination program has reduced hospital admissions and deaths, with fewer than one in 1,000 infections now estimated to result in death - compared with one in 60 during last winter. This time next week I will be talking to you from a face-mask-free, hugging and licking appropriate zone where everyone can go out clubbing and dance at weddings.

However, maybe it is just what the country needs, especially after the big Euro's finale everyone watched last night. The Three Lions, appearing in their first major men's final for 55 years, were agonizingly beaten on penalties following a 1-1 draw after 120 minutes. Having absolutely no interest in Football and (successfully) not writing about sport of any kind (at least to my knowledge) in the last ten years of writing this blog, I had to do some research and fact-checking for tonight's blog post. On consulting BBC Sport, England reached their first men's European Championship final by topping their group, then defeating Germany, Ukraine, and Denmark in the knockout stage. 

But sadly despite the hype and the chants and the hope and dreams of a nation, it simply wasn't meant to be. They were the only two goals of the game, and Italy edged home 3-2 on penalties. I watched from behind a pillow as the final few shots at the goal took place, Mr Warehouse on the edge of his seat too. England's Euro 2020 final defeat by Italy was "incredibly painful" but the players gave "everything they possibly could", said manager Gareth Southgate. 

I did half expect after all of the efforts made, albeit in vain, for there to be a lot more abuse and sadly racial slurs and hatred spread online about the young players, several of which were young black men, one I was surprised who was only just nineteen years old. But with some gentle encouragement from their manager and some good old-fashioned cuddles too from teammates and supports, I think they will be OK. I mean I am sure all those millions and squillions in their bank account help no end. "We are all together. They have given the country some unbelievable memories," Southgate said on BBC One with Captain Harry Kane said the defeat would "hurt for the rest of our careers but we should be extremely proud as a group of what we have achieved," adding "I couldn't have given more, the boys couldn't have given more. Penalties are the worst feeling in the world when you lose. It wasn't our night but it's been a fantastic tournament and we should hold our heads high." 

I won't lie, I did worry about Bukayo Saka, the little black teenager crying his eyes out on the pitch after having his goal saved by the opposition and probably feeling like he let the whole country down. It's certainly going to hurt for a while, but my concerns were for some of the nasty comments and vicious tweets that can and sadly and inevitably will come after such a loss. 

However, on opening my news feed early this morning and scrolling through whilst pouring my coffee I saw nothing but admiration for those young lads. Tweets and Instagram posts heralding them as heroes and for doing nothing but giving their all. Now don't get it twisted, I am the first one to criticize and say that they are paid FAAAAR too much for running around a pitch and kicking about a ball of air (in days gone by it would have been a natty old pigs bladder) and how nurses and paramedics are paid annually less than a quarter of a footballer's weekly income is. 

But with that being said I have noticed a change in the wind. These boys are doing far more for their country than playing a poxy game. Rashford (Marcus) campaigned heavily throughout last year for free school meals for the most vulnerable children and when the government offered some measly half bananas, jam sandwiches, and an egg (yes as little as that) Marcus Rashford stood up and said "No, this isn't good enough". At nineteen I was more worried about holding down a job long enough to keep a roof over my head and afford to go out and get shit-faced and meet boys let alone taking shots in a Euro Final which could change history. How many other people can say they were doing something that great at 19! 

I am sure that the racism and disgusting comments and hate are there, but I am glad that the British public saw what I did yesterday. A kid. A kid who had tried his hardest. A kid who played his heart out. A kid who is probably more dedicated than some fully grown men double his age. 

'Til next time, Love A.Lou x

Remember, if you would like to purchase anything then please feel free to check out my store at: https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/Wooftys or visit our Instagram @WooftysDogTreats and use "TATOATS21" to get 10% off your first order over £15.00.

covi-D Day!

Heyy everyone, 

So today we have learned here in the UK Bozza Jozza's plans for the final unlocking of restrictions in England. After the final stage of reopening on 21 June was pushed back, I think that the public knows that Prime Minister Boris Johnson can't really go back on his word yet again, U-turning yet again. The new unlocking date is scheduled in which all legal limits on social contact removed, nightclubs opening and restrictions on weddings or other social gatherings will be abolished is 19 July in England with Scotland and Wales to follow suit in the coming weeks also. 

Most recently it has been widely reported that we have had many days now where there have been zero COVID-related deaths and with the BBC confirming that, whilst still sad, the numbers today are only nine (as recorded on Monday 05 July 2021). That is still a huge difference from what we were seeing several months ago and the vaccine roll-out really is our savior. Despite the new Indian variant labeled the Delta Coronavirus, most of the adult population have had access to their first vaccine, more than 45-million people in fact, with many, like myself and Mr. Warehouse having had both which is now at an average of 3 in four people being fully vaxxed. 

As Boris Johnson made his announcement during the news this evening on the BBC he outlined a five-point plan for "living with Covid". Continuing with his address to the nation, the PM explained that "if we don't go ahead now when we've clearly done so much with the vaccination program to break the link... when would we go ahead?" something I think the whole country has been screaming at their tellies for weeks. Adding he said "We run the risk of either opening up at a very difficult time when the virus has an edge, has an advantage, in the cold months, or again putting everything off to next year." OH GOD PLEASE NO!

In line with this development and his confidence in reopening on 19 July, head honcho BoJo has said that most coronavirus rules will cease with the plan to include a reduction in the interval between vaccine doses for the under-40's, meaning everyone over 18 should be double-jabbed by mid-September, an end to the 1m plus social distancing rule, and no limits on numbers meeting indoors or outdoors. Legal requirements to wear face coverings will also end, Mr. Johnson said, but guidance will continue to suggest places "where you might choose to do so".

Finally were allowed as grown adults to use our own brains!!!

However, regardless of the optimism, as told via an article from the BBC, the Government has been careful with their words warning that cases were predicted to rise to 50,000 a day later this month and that "we must reconcile ourselves, sadly, to more deaths from Covid" I just hope that things don't change as this week Mr Warehouse and I break the less that 100-day mark on our wedding countdown. I just hope everything stays true and we can finally get hitched!

'Til next time, Love A.Lou x

Remember, if you would like to purchase anything then please feel free to check out my store at: https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/Wooftys or visit our Instagram @WooftysDogTreats and use "TATOATS21" to get 10% off your first order over £15.00.

Love is friendship that has caught fire

Good Afternoon,  

Snow melted (again) and all but a distant memory from last week, although the lightness of the flurry made it seemingly stick around for longer, making me feel like I lived in Michigan or Canada every time I walked out of the front door to empty the bins. Alas there has been not much further progress with the spare room come office. Whilst I have indeed moved everything around and bought a nice office chair, the funky beanbag for the corner of the room has yet to be sourced, and said Mandela wall art has yet to be hung. To be honest I know how this will work - I will find multiple other things to occupy my weekend and evening time with than finish off said office / spare room and by the time I even think about getting round to it Boris would have said it is time to frequent the office again. Although when that is is another question entirely.

A week from now the country will be sat on tenterhooks as we wait to see which journalist was correct in their PM's predictions and which Newspaper is just full of dog shite like normal. This time next week we should hopefully know a little more about the reopening of the UK and a road-map to get out of this awful mess caused by Coronavirus. The BBC confirms that the death toll is fading fast with just over 250 being recorded yesterday (Sunday 14 February 2021), a drop of 50 or so in the last week. With more than 15 million people in the UK have now had their first dose of a coronavirus vaccine everyone is certainly pushing for the reopening to happen sooner rather than later. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been aloof in his replies and ever so careful with what he is saying now in the count-down to when the government will set out a "roadmap" for easing restrictions in England on 22 February.

With months of frustration being cooped up in our houses, some with kids and others with snoring partners, you can understand why the public are chomping at the bit to get out and back to normality That being said though, this weekend I felt quite happy with the situation as it is. Celebrating Valentine's day yesterday was simply wonderful. Now I won't lie, it was hard looking back on Valentine's days of yesteryear knowing this one is not the same. Mr. Warehouse and I are not hopping on a train to London for the weekend as we would normally do. We were not, as we were last year, writing in our cards to each other the number of days until we were husband and wife, and I have yet to save that "Hubby" card for yet another year.

But despite the hardship and turmoil, we had fun. The morning was spent sipping coffee and reading our cards as we watched mindless TV and ate Percy Pig Pancakes (But I like to call him Peter Pork Head - sounds more street) from Marks and Spencer (which, like a brat, I was insisting Mr Warehouse buy me - Although annoyingly we forgot the Percy Pig Sauce). The afternoon we donned our wellies and fluffy big coats to walk the puppo's down at a local park and I was pleasantly surprised at the little one's recall ability, albeit with a tennis ball in hand.

That evening, after Mr Warehouse's other love (Arsenal) he made me a beautiful dinner which was incredible, again from the British establishment - Marks and Spencer. On the website First Dates (not from when I was on it I must say) Fred Sirieix serves up a fuss-free and next-level-tasty Dine-In-deal; Because to be fair where else are we going for a meal out other than maybe another room of our own home!? For us, it all started with a Gastropub inspired Runny centre scotch egg served on a bed of rocket. Next up was a rack of lamb smothered in a mustard herb crust served with the most fluffy and crispy triple cooked chips. To end on a super-sweet note, it’s got to be the cookie crumb topped billionaires dessert with chocolate and caramel sauce with caramel and Belgian chocolate ganache! Although by the time we got round to the dessert we were stuffed.

Of course, no Valentine's feast would be complete without a top tipple and chocs so the chocolate love bug choccies and dessert are our little Monday night treat. Speaking of which, I best go an stick dinner in ...

'Til next time, Love A.Lou x

A glimmer of hope for us all?

Heidi Hi,  

Snow is yet again fluttering down again this week, making our lives in lockdown a little less mundane and more interesting than the last nearly eight-weeks (fuck that's depressing). Today I start working from home (again) although this time I have a plan. I have moved the spare room around, I plan to buy a nice office chair, maybe a beanbag for the corner of the room and any guests I have to join me (probably one of the dogs or Mr Warehouse after he gets in). I even invested in a huge Mandela wall art piece so I can make it more boho and relaxing whilst WFH this time around, not that I need to be any more relaxed as the new job is like night and day from my last with so much less stress and the overwhelming intensity has disappeared entirely. Whilst it is different in terms of the work culture and workloads, I am enjoying it and honestly so glad I made the decision to move.

Tomorrow I will start my first full day working from my "new office" and am already so excited to light a new candle - The little things I suppose. But you have to take them where you can get them as the world is still amongst a grip of the COVID-19 Pandemic. As much as I have tried to distance myself from it, socially and otherwise, it is hard not to ignore that the UK has now surpassed over 100,000 deaths from the disease. The BBC confirms that the death toll is fading fast with just over 300 being recorded today (Monday 08 February 2021), a drop of 200 in the space of a fortnight. With more than 12 million people in the UK have now had their first dose of a coronavirus vaccine surely the end is in sight now? That's almost one in four adults in the UK - Incredible!

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said the government will set out a "roadmap" for easing restrictions in England on 22 February. You can understand why people are chomping at the bit to get outside and back to normality as during the current lockdown the public have been told to stay at home other than for limited purposes such as essential food shopping, medical appointments and work. With schools also closed, I know many a parent who is slowly going insane being driven up the wall by the constant neediness from their children and seemingly never-ending want for snacks. To be fair though, I am not a child and Mr Warehouse nor a parent and yet I display all those traits of nagging offspring.

Here's hoping we can soon join the likes of the Isle of Man. Sky News reported last week that the small island situated between England and Ireland were able to welcome back pupils to schools and businesses could reopen. People will be able to leave their homes but don't get excited for your holidays just yet though as the borders will remain closed to outsiders. And don't think they fuck about either as the article goes onto explain that In December 2020, a man was jailed for breaching COVID-19 regulations after riding a jet ski to the island from Scotland to visit his partner. Ahh, sweet love or utter stupidity?

The island had not seen any "unexplained" community cases of the coronavirus for just under three-weeks and so this meant that islanders could hang up their face-masks and tell social-distancing to do one as many families and friends hugged for the first time since last year. Sky News continues that the current lockdown restrictions have been entirely lifted in the Isle of Man thanks to the "supportive, patriotic" public who have been praised for the way they have followed measures to tackle COVID-19. When being interviewed, Chief Minister Howard Quayle told Sky News "we had no COVID on the Isle of Man from the 15 June 2020 to the 7 January 2021 but sadly, we had some cases on the Isle of Man in which we had to go in quick and fast, shut down our island to enable us to eradicate".

One day. One day this will all be over and all but a blemish on our otherwise normal lives. A fortnight from now we will know a little more I am sure - But for now, we live by our windows, watching the world go by and waiting for the day we can get out and join them.

'Til next time, Love A.Lou x

To Vax or Anti-Vax?!

Heyy, 

Over halfway through as we start the beginning of week number three of our new UK lockdown and with more news of the incredible efforts from pharmaceutical companies including Pfizer and now a home-grown drug produced by Astra Zeneca over in Oxford, the new coronavirus vaccine (vaccine's now) are now on their way. 

However, with a new vaccine on the horizon, I have noticed a new strange phenomenon. People actively shunning it. This new wave of people, who would have otherwise been described as "Karens" several months ago are now being heralded as "Anti-Vaxxers". As a side note, if you are not aware I am not against Karen's in any way, this is just the 2020 version of saying "you're being a douchbag". On the website, UrbanDictionary describes being labelled a "Karen" is a way of describing someone who makes solutions to others' problems an inconvenience to her although she isn't even remotely affected. For example - Karen complains that her favourite parking spot was replaced by a ramp for wheelchairs. She parks her car in the old spot anyway and shoots a vlog about it. Being a Karen. 

Anyway, after being sidetracked by "Karen-ism's", whilst I can understand the "Anti-Vaxxers" reasonings for not wanting or actively being against such an immunisation, I do not support it. Some people may simply be a bit unsure about whether or not they want one, or have genuine questions, for example around safety and side effects. It is understandable and I totally get what those people are mindful of, especially so when this virus is barely even a year old and already we have a magical new miracle drug for it?! But I am discovering that there are also people who are against vaccinations full stop - Known as 'anti-vaxxers' - And are part of the anti-vaccination movement.

But what is the anti-vaccination movement and how harmful is it really? The children's website describes finding a coronavirus vaccine is seen by many scientists and experts as a key way of tackling the pandemic and helping us return to normal life. 

Reading up online about anything you will find loads of articles for and against whatever your controversial opinion maybe - Hitler was a saint, blue/black dress vs. gold/cream dress or my personal favourite - The Queen of England is actually a lizard-person controlled by the Illuminati. This proves that regardless of your orientation you will make up your mind based normally on how you feel, not on the facts. And sometimes they can be hard to find online in a world of fake news and bogus articles. Finding a reputable article online from CBBC of all places in the media (news outlets are the one place I would only mildly trust what I am being spoon-fed, albeit a children's one). 

The kid-friendly website goes on to explain that the anti-vaccination movement is when people don't believe that some or all vaccines are a good thing, and do not want themselves, family members or other people to be vaccinated. But the anti-vaccination movement isn't something new and isn't just against a coronavirus vaccine. However those who make anti-vax claims usually don't have a scientific or medical background and claims can sometimes sound far-fetched, They want to try and convince people that vaccines aren't safe or to make them believe a conspiracy theory. This is something that has been going on for generations, ever since the scaremongering in the late '80s and early '90s when having the MMR jab for Measles, Mumps and Rubella was a huge no-no for Moms & Dads the world over. The NHS website now makes it clear in their guidance that the MMR vaccine is NOT linked to autism. After the Doctor who wrote the damning papers was struck off it was widely made available that there is no evidence of any link between the MMR vaccine and autism. There are many studies that have investigated this all made available in various links to lists of MMR studies and their findings on the Oxford University Vaccine Knowledge Project website. 

But even if a successful vaccine has been made and developed, enough people need to have it to make it effective. Some people who are curious or nervous about vaccinations might be put off having one because of what they hear from other people, or what they see online or on social media. They might already mistrust the governments or companies that are creating or giving out the vaccines. However further informing young (and a few older) minds, CBBC confirms that the UK government says it takes the issue of vaccine disinformation "extremely seriously" and social media sites are working with the government in order to tackle lies about the new coronavirus vaccine online. But this is a big task - and some say they have not done enough to label or remove posts on this topic that have been shared online for months. 

Would I take a vaccine if it protects me and my loved ones? If it meant we can go back to some sort of normality? If it meant I might have a fighting fucking chance of getting married in the next six months? Yes. Yes, I would. But I know I would not be first in line and that in itself lends itself to resting my worried little head about any fears surrounding its safety or efficiency. Who knows, I am sure it will be several months yet before people in my age group get anywhere near to the top of the list. 

'Til next time, Love A.Lou xx

Here we go a-fucking-gain

 Heyy Heyy, 

Another week and another blow to the system as the UK announces another lockdown. And just as Mr Warehouse and I had been released from our very own personal lockdown we go into another effing one! After being forced to announcing it rather prematurely on Saturday (31st October 2020). After starting with an apology for "disturbing your Saturday evening with more news of Covid" (not that any of us was doing anything bloody fun since you stole Halloween like Mariah Carey on a Christmas power trip) Boris Johnson continued in vain to assure the public that he wouldn’t have done it unless it was absolutely necessary - Or that his plans had been rumbled by the media, hence the rushed press conference and tired look upon his ageing face.

As people struggling in the last few months throughout the spring and summer thought that things might get a little better with the prospect of Christmas being a bit more "normal" it seems as though all of that hope has been well and truly stripped away. Bring on the brink of a mammoth mental health crisis, far greater than anything I have ever experienced before, it surely would be more important than ever to try and keep people from having to self isolate from friends, family and support networks. It would seem though that the government's previous efforts of "Hands, Face, Space" and the messy and confusing three-tier lockdown system introduced to mainly Northern cities and counties including Greater Manchester,  Liverpool and Nottingham. 

Whilst Nicola Sturgeon (controversially maybe) is ahead of the curve, the confusion grows in Scotland as they were due to move to a five-tier system of virus alert levels from Today (Monday 2nd November) which differs still in Wales as they started a national lockdown more serious than even Lockdown number 1 and over in Northern Ireland, its devolved government have also introduced additional restrictions including an extended two-week half term for schools to reduce the spread of the disease.

The fuzzy advice and guidance from our "leader", BoJo, stared late after being postponed several times throughout the afternoon. There were a few frights to be had with our prime Minister the Halloween announce a second national lockdown which will be imposed across England on Thursday (5th November 2020) with all non-essential shops, restaurants, pubs and leisure facilities to close for at least four weeks. Under the new regulations, which will be published later on in the week, The Guardian online confirms households will be banned from mixing indoors, with the exception of for childcare and other forms of support. Support bubbles will remain in place, and children will still be able to move between homes if their parents are separated.

The drama unravels to reveal escalated the country’s response to the pandemic with ministers explaining how “we must act now to contain this autumn surge”, with these measures due to remain in place until 2nd of December 2020 (although I will state now I am doubtful that this will be the case as we are simply kicking the inevitable can down the road to further mental health issues, financial crippling and unemployment).

Yet again people have been told to “stay at home” where possible (although what that means for me and my place of work who knows), but confusingly will be allowed to leave their homes for education including schools and universities and to the workplace if they cannot work from home. Just as the furlough scheme was set to end, covering 80% of the wages of workers who are temporarily laid off due to coronavirus, the much-needed scheme will remain in place and be extended throughout November, the prime minister said. 

Medical appointments, to shop for essential goods, and outdoor exercise will also be permitted but only with members of the same household or one person from another household in which you are bubbled. The Guardian online continued with the new restrictions as set out by the government that people will be allowed to leave home to care for vulnerable people, or to escape injury or harm. Whilst the restaurants, pubs and bars are all set to close from Wednesday night, takeaways and deliveries will continue to be allowed. 

The prime minister explained that along with the government he would seek to end the measures in early December, but went on to say the exit strategy from the regulations would vary according to the severity of the virus transmission rates in different areas of England - Ergoproving my earlier point of it not being a hard and fast ending because let's be fair, this virus will still be here to fuck us over on December 3rd?! Finishing off the bleak and dismal outlook, Boris Johnson said he said hoped "the measures could enable families to reunite over Christmas" and that whilst "Christmas is going to be different this year, perhaps very different it’s his sincere hope and belief that by taking tough action now we can allow families across the country to be together” something I am not holding my breath for considering the devastating blow the whole country has had to endure. 

The Office for National Statistics estimated that 568,100 people were infected with the virus in the week ending 23 October alone and with that statistic in mind, sitting here babysitting the nieces and nephews, I have no idea what the next week will entail, but what I do know is that yet again life will be turned on its head and I just hope I can find my way out of the avalanche of bullshit and crappiness. 

'Til next time, Love A.Lou xx

Our Release Date

Hiya, 

Opening my bleary eyes that morning it was a glorious sunny day. Daylight streaming through the window at barely gone 7am, I was up and ready to start the day. Pottering through my normal routine of letting the dogs out for their morning wee, having one myself, serving up doggy breakfast, morning coffee made and settling into the comfiness of the recliner for some daytime telly for an hour or so before I started work. Ahh bliss. 

But this morning was slightly different as no sooner had I sat down at my desk in the spare room, Mr Warehouse came springing from the bedroom, dressed and ready for the day, something which I hadn't seen much before 10am most days of our personal lockdown. But as I said, today was different. Today was our release day. Although an apt phrase, I didn't like the connotations of being released from the mental institute or prison, however maybe some of our neighbours would have been less forgiving since they seemed to think we were hardened crim's as it was following my outburst last week. 

Yes, this morning Mr Warehouse was up and about in anticipation of his final day of freedom before heading back to work. Starting the day off well with a McDonald's breakfast run, followed closely by taking our little one to the groomers and home in time for some lunch and a few hours on the Xbox, all the while as the breadwinner (AKA moi) is squirrelling away upstairs on her laptop working from home. But it wasn't all bad though as come 5pm, I logged off, finishing work for the day and headed on out to get my nails done, although not before stopping off for a cheeky Starbs en route, satisfying my inner need for a PSL (Pumpkin Spiced Latte) - my first one of the season. 

It felt so good to be out and able to see faces other than my future husbands. I mean as much as I love him, fuck I love to get out of these four walls. Honestly, I was going crazy and that is far from an exaggeration since I had recently experienced a huge panic attack at work one afternoon and my mental health has slowly been slipping, so getting out of the house for a few hours and seeing friends and family this weekend has certainly saved me and restore my chemical imbalance, at least temporarily. 

But alas things are still not looking great as the virus is still haunting my life. Figures from the BBC released today (Monday 26 October 2020) confirm that the number of new cases of coronavirus is continuing to skyrocket. It is clear, from the figures at least that there is an upward turn for the pandemic. With the overall damning evidence showing that coronavirus related deaths in the last 24-hour period being recorded at over 100, it is a little worrying considering we are going into the colder and darker months of winter 

With people struggling in the last few months throughout the spring and summer with mental health, as have I, and having to self isolate from friends, family and support networks we are on the brink of a mammoth mental health crisis, far greater than anything I have ever experienced before some something that without huge improvement will cripple our already exhausted NHS, and that's not to mention winter with all of its flu's and bugs and hospital admissions. And rise they are as news from the BBC confirms the most recent figures show hospital admission rates for Covid-19 patients rising most quickly in the North West and the North East and Yorkshire region. The news article goes on to say that cases are rising quickly across large parts of England, with other spikes in areas of Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

In England, a three-tier lockdown system was introduced, with it's latest victims being South Yorkshire joining Greater Manchester, Lancashire and the Liverpool City Region in the highest level, tier three, meaning no household mixing either indoors or outdoors at hospitality venues or private gardens, pubs and bars not serving meals will be closed and guidance made to not travel into or out of the areas of concern. Soon to join the dreaded T3 category include Warrington and Nottingham, both big northern powerhouses. Other cities including Stoke-on-Trent, Coventry and Slough are the most recent additions to tier two which means a limit on pubs and restaurants opening hours cut to a 10pm curfew with no households mixing indoors but the rule of six may apply when outside, including gardens. 

But the confusion grows as Scotland is due to move to a five-tier system of virus alert levels from 2nd November with the First Minister Nicola Sturgeon confirming that central Scotland, including Edinburgh and Glasgow, is likely to be in tier 3 (the second-highest tier). This is different still in Wales as they have started a national lockdown otherwise known as a circuit-breaker, meaning most non-essential businesses are closed and people are only able to leave home for limited reasons for the next fortnight with even essential shops and supermarkets restricting the items bought in store, however over the Irish sea's it is a confusing tale yet again as the Northern Ireland devolved government have also introduced additional restrictions including an extended two-week half term for schools to reduce the spread.

As a nation we need to stick together, however, the fuzzy advice and guidance from our "leader", Boris Johnson announcing several weeks ago the Government’s new stance to Hands, Face, Space. But with the rules around socialising and meeting up with friends and loved ones changing every moment and dependant on where in the country you live, I, like the majority of you I suppose, cant help but ask what this means for Christmas and the upcoming festivities towards the end of the year are looking bleak. 

So it seems for now at least, Mr. Warehouse can breathe easy as I cannot plan any sort of party or social gathering without facing the prospect of a fine. Halloween? Cancelled. Fireworks night. Cancelled. Remembrance Parade with the family. Cancelled. Christmas Dinner? Who fucking knows at this rate but as work Christmas parties and celebrations are being debated in every office up and down the country to see if Agnes in HR can sort out a virtual Zoom party for 250-odd employees, assuring everyone that Michael from IT won't strip off his shirt again as he did last year, it seems all hope of returning to normality or anything remotely close is being fired out of the window quicker than a Windows '94 desktop PC. 

'Til next time, Love A.Lou xx

School is far from out for Summer

Afternoon All, 

As we approach our 11th week in lockdown I am drained. I am done with all of this pussyfooting around, queueing for this and queueing for that. I am done with it all. Not only am I exhausted but I still feel burnt out and whilst have been furloughed or signed off sick (whichever it may be), the last few weeks had been mentally taxing and taking a toll on me workwise.  

I suppose you could say I am at the end of my tether with it. It is all just so pointless. Figures from the BBC this evening state that whilst the confirmed new cases of coronavirus in the UK stand at over a quarter of a million, the death toll has significantly dropped to just 111 today alone (Monday 01 June 2020), down ten on last week. And I know what you are thinking, Ten doesn't seem like a lot to drop by in a week, but it is still a drop as we have not yet experienced an unsettlingly high spike in deaths or new cases as yet. This being said, however, Boris Johnson has yet to make an announcement of further openings. 

Today saw the first few schools open since lockdown began back in March. The BBC reported today that Headteachers are reporting "highly variable" levels of attendance, ranging from 40% to 70%, as primary schools in England bring back more pupils. The article explained the procedure in which the government has deemed it safe for children in Reception (4-5 year olds), Years 1 (5-6 year olds) and Years 6 (10-11 year olds) to be allowed back to school as some of the first groups able to return. But this isn't the case for all children as during the lockdown there have been some schools which have remained open throughout the coronavirus restrictions for the children of key workers and vulnerable children. 

It seems reading through the article further, that locally it appears to be a bit of a mixed bag, with not all schools either open or bringing back pupils as outlined in the government's plans with some local authorities not yet bringing back more pupils due to limited space, training and also that like the rest of us, not all staff are available due to sickness or shielding. But I can sympathise with parents and carers. I am not sure, had the shoe been on the other foot, I would be rushing to send my kids back into an environment which I could not guarantee was 100% safe. The information provided seems obscure and the contradictory information is frustrating - I am allowed to take my child to school and should be encouraged for doing so, however, I am not allowed to take them to get their hair cut or buy new school shoes? It just seems absurd, and that is before you look at the new rules children are forced to follow. 

One post on Facebook from a Headteacher somewhere up further North than Bedfordshire detailed outlines for all desks to be front-facing, dedicated circles or squares in the playground in which to play in alone and pupils only allowed a set time for toilet breaks and no others in-between, despite some of them being only barely out of nappie (although that is another blog post entirely) which would be really difficult for a little person to do. When you got to go, you got to go. 

Also within this letter to parents, the school stated that no lunchboxes, bags or stationery can be brought into school and that all uniforms or clothes must be washed every night to avoid contamination. But the most heartbreaking thing I read (other than the fact that all plush toys and soft furnishing had been band from classrooms) that should a child fall over and hurt themselves, have a toilet accident or be physically sick on themselves then they will be instructed, from afar and by a member of staff, on how to clean themselves up and how to dress a cut or graze.  

If that cannot be achieved then a parent will have to be called, seemingly defeating the whole "get back to work" thing the government has been banging on about all this time. Just disgraceful and honestly this will be harming children more than staying at home. I mean I don't want to downgrade what early-years teachers do as it is an incredible job, but surely this stuff can be taught to kids by their parents and avoid all of this trauma and upset. Besides, what kids will learn now in the next six-weeks weeks will all be long forgotten come September when schools resume properly (fingers crossed). 

I don't know, to me it makes no sense. Sure send back the over-12's. They have SAT's (another thing I don't agree with) and teens who sit exams next year for GCSE and A-Levels, but not little ones. They barely know personal space with mom and dad let alone with their little friend they haven't seen in not just weeks but maybe even months. Teens and Pre-Teens can social distance, something I know for a fact that a toddler will struggle with, not to mention trying to pull themselves together enough to put a plaster on it when all they really want is a cuddle and to be told it is all going to be alright, although right now I think we all need a bit of that. 

'Til next time, Love A.Lou xx