Jabbed and Fab

Evening, 

Village Halls are the heart of communities in Britain. They are the places of gatherings and occasion. Donating blood? Village Hall. Kids birthday party? Village Hall. Christenings, Wakes, Voting, Slimming groups, and exercise classes? The good ole' Village Hall. And no matter which one you venture into, be it Scotland, England, or Wales they are all host the same traits and emit the same nostalgic vibes of years gone by.

In years gone by I envisage them being the place to go and dance, somewhere that the whole village would turn out for. The walls would speak of shy boys approaching young girls and asking them to dance whilst older chaperones looked on. The wooden floors would echo this in days gone by of married couples taking their first tentative steps out to the world as they greeted guests and cut the all-important fruit-filled wedding cake covered in rich royal icing and marzipan.

As times changed the village hall would welcome women through the doors not just to host afternoon tea, Tupper-wear parties and book clubs but to vote and make a difference. Villages halls would be a place of gathering to hear news and debate the important things in life. Village halls would have been the place you would go to welcome the young men home from war.

Yes. The village hall is held in a special place of communities hearts up and down this great nation and yesterday was one such day where it again would hold strong and play a part in History. As Mr. Warehouse pulled into the parking space outside the large white marquee he asked if I was nervous. I was. A little. But more than anything I was excited. I was about to make history. I was about to be part of history. Something generations would talk about for decades to come and a moment in time children, maybe even my own children or grandchildren will base school projects and essays on. This is the moment I had my Coronavirus Vaccine. As reported via the BBC, I joined one of the nearly 28-million people in the UK who has now had their first dose of a coronavirus vaccine.

Washing my hands with anti-bac and heading through the sterile tent to another kindly face (albeit half-covered with a facemask) who welcomed me into the facility and asked me to step forward. Taking some details I stood waiting in a short corridor until I was called forward.

Seating myself in front of a young woman, shiny silver rings adorning her fingers, and a flowery spring top on I felt all the ore closer to spring and being free from this hell of social-distancing and restrictions on life. Answering a few short questions I was checked in and handed a leaflet with all the information I required. I was then ushered to a waiting area of six chairs, already filled with five bottoms, all waiting to be seen. I looked around and admired the establishment - The tall beamed ceilings and roof lights, flooding the room with hopeful sunshine and the promise of a better tomorrow. The heaters embedded into the walls just as they were in my primary school, an awful shade of sage green, complete with dusty grids and edges emblazoned with scuff marks from kids running around with trainers on.

I looked at the clock for a fleeting moment as I wondered which self-made cubical I would be called into. Looking around me I could see the statistics from the news. There was only a handful of Black, Asian or minority ethnicities sat waiting for their COVID jab along with me. I think I only saw one out of six of the chairs filled. A worrying statistic was now in front of me and not just some mumbo jumbo on the news. It was plain to see from the young girls register who I had just seen me that there were many a name that was not ticked off and left unhighlighted. I had hoped it was just a glitch or that someone had overslept or forgot, but I feared it was for other reasons. It worried me. Not for my sake but for theirs. What about the families or life they are missing out on by not getting it - And all for fear and fake news.

I was eventually called over by a tall athletic women in her early retirement. A friendly face with short silvered hair and kind eyes. She was wearing a red top with a white shirt underneath and red trousers making her honestly look like something from Cat In The Hat but I liked it. It charmed me. She showed me to another colleague of hers, a tubby Indian man, clearly knowledgeable about medicine (or at least enough to which made me feel comfortable) who welcomed me to the makeshift surgery. Nervous I started answering his questions and I think he could tell I was a little on edge at the sight of the liquid-filled yellow needles sat in a box next to me. I started blathering on about something or other when I noticed his biscuits and asked what his favorite kind was. As he prepared the needle and removed the cap he explained that in actual fact he didn't really like biscuits and yet the ladies kept bringing him cups of tea and biscuits and slices of apple and such every half hour or so.

I thought about that and wondered for a second what his actual job was in normal pre-COVID life. Was he a dentist? Doctor? Plastic surgeon? Maybe he was nothing to do with medicine. Maybe he was a bin man or a lawyer or a pizza maker. Who knows but at that moment I felt a sharp scratch and a cold sensation. Knowing what was happening I looked up. The clock read 12pm on the nose and I appreciated the efficiency of all this.

And that was it. The doctor (or plastic surgeon or bin man or pizza man) asked how I was getting home and if I was driving to which I replied no and that I had my fiance driving me. And with that, he signed off my little card and sent me on my way, although not before sliding the biscuits across the desk and encouraging me to take the little clingfilmed package.

Mrs Cat-In-The-Hat saw me out and escorted me through the foyer to the car park where my faithful Mom-mobile greeted me with its grumbly diesel engine and its handsome driver. The sun shone as we waved our way past all the volunteers and marshalls, driving off into our future of hugging, kissing, and rejoicing in family and friends.

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.

'Til next time, Love A.Lou x

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

Let the wedding bells ring out

 Hello Hello,  

Snow defrosted and all snowmen melted (although I think we now have to refer to them and "snow people" just in case someone gets offended, commonly known rather ironically as a snow-flake) our lives in lockdown returned to normal - Whatever the fuck that is anymore. By mid-week, it was all but a long lost daydream and with our evening occupied with plans for the first time in months, I was excited. For the first time in what seemed like forever, I was actually going to be talking wedding shit. Not "Oooh I hope it happens this year" or "Oh no COVID-safe wedding" blah blah blah. No. Certifiably exciting wedding shit.

After weeks of uncertainty and unknowing, anxious days of thinking non-stop about how our wedding might look. Will it go ahead, won't it go ahead? What are the restrictions, will we have to wear facemasks and is there any point in having all the expense? If it does go ahead how many people will we be allowed, will it be enough and who are the magic few? So many questions whirling around in my head it is no wonder I hadn't much sleep since Christmas. Because whilst everyone means well after the big man came down our chimney (socially distanced of course) the next question on everyone's lips was wedding, wedding, wedding.

As much as I knew that all our friends and family meant well by asking and only trying to maybe suck some happiness and excitement for finally a day where we could all be together again, I loathed the conversations and all that they entailed. That was until I had an honest and frank conversation with firstly my Matron of Honour - Mrs Tweedle-Dumb, and thereafter spurred on by our conversation (and the lure of a kebab) Mr Warehouse. We sat down on a Friday night to discuss and I had come up with several ideas such as a Humanist Ceremony (basically a non-religious and non-legally-binding ceremony focussing on each other as opposed to the holy one) switching up the venues to something smaller and less costly to accommodate the possibly smaller guest numbers and even the "P" word again.

As before, Mr Warehouse reassured me, if not heavily-handed due to the heated discussion (not helped by the chilli sauce laden lamb pitta). He made me more confident and happy that things are too uncertain at this moment in time to be making any rash decisions when no one knows what is happening next week let alone in four-months time. And so we took the decision that after touching on a few of the above ideas we would take them into consideration, add a pinch of salt and put it on the back burner until Easter when Government hopes to start opening life back up. Today the BBC confirms that the death toll is fading fast with only 406 being recorded today (Monday 01 February 2021), down just under a hundred on last Monday's figure. With the downturn in figures for people becoming infected as well as dying from the disease seems to suggest that the vaccines are working. What's even better news is that should the news be believed, the UK is not only on target but smashing the figures and expects that not only would we have vaccinated the top four categories of vulnerable people by mid-February, but that it is likely that this could be as soon as next week.

With all this in mind and focussing heavily the last few weeks since the kebab-convo, I have become engrossed in positivity and only accept positive vibes and attitudes. All Negative Nelly's and Grumple-Grumps need not apply. And so getting back to the beginning of this blog, our evening occupiedo. Armed with mountains of information from blogs, podcasts, news and more (Mainly from Guide For Brides and their weekly updates from the governments wedding taskforce so a big shout out to them for igniting such a firey intensity surrounding wedding planning again) Mr Warehouse and I scrabbled around for the laptop lead and the best lighting for our meet with the Reverand.

Much talking of flowers, hymns, singing (why do I hear Will Ferrell in the voice of "Elf" saying singing - Man I love that film) and readings were enough to keep me going. I had hoped Mr Warehouse would get just as excited as I was, maybe rubbing off on him a little, but I think a hard day in the pharmaceuticals industry with many more to come and the work-life causing mounting stress and frustration didn't help him to unwind or giddy about anything. And so June 12th here we come. Ideally with everyone. Even better with my Matron of Honour to be allowed to travel here from LA without visa restrictions or our nephew to wave at us from the crowded faces. The icing on the cake if we can have a dance and disco or cuddle - OMG! Dare I get too ecstatic? In any which way on the 12th of June, it will be me and Mr Warehouse and our Reverand standing up there, who else joins us along the way - Who knows?!

'Til next time, Love A.Lou x

A very different Christmas

Afternoon everyone, 

Today marks the beginning of my last full week at work and I think it has finally settled in that I am leaving following my resignation. It is an odd time, what with the run up to Christmas, finishing off shopping for presents, and the odd social occasion following the lifting of Lockdown 2.0 at the beginning of the month. Whilst I feel slightly lacking a little in festive spirit and joy at the moment I am sure it will hit me in full force as opposed to the waves I have been feeling, probably much like the rest of the year, just riding out the rollercoaster of emotions. 

Adding to it all, Saturday marked the six-month countdown to my wedding day with Mr. Warehouse, and despite being in a similar situation last time around, I am feeling a little more anxious (for obvious reasons) this time around. Back in March, I was extremely cocky about the fact that my wedding would go ahead without a hitch and that even during lockdown that eventually things would go back to normal and I assumed that this would be quite quick all of the information I was provided through the media. But within a few weeks of being back from Newquay in the summer made the decision to cancel our wedding day and postpone to 2021. 

I am feeling optimistic, especially so considering the fact that the first virus injections went ahead and continue into this week as well. Reading up online recently one of my favorite women's magazines, an article was written by Glamour asking the important questions on every Bride and Grooms lips. They confirm that Boris Johnson recently revealed when big weddings are likely to recommence and that it could be soon. I agree with Bianca London when she writes that despite a lot of us hoping that we'd be toasting to the shit show of a year whilst knocking back tequila shots and dodgy dancing to 80s cheesy hits with 120 pals at a wild wedding, the virus shows no sign of abating and so what does that mean or hold for next year's weddings is uncertain. 

Following on from one of the most recent blogs that I posted regarding the CEO of Bridebook and his views on when weddings can restart again, similarly, MPs are taking note of weddings, at last, hosting a long and positive debate recently to discuss how they might increase the number of guests allowed. The article goes on to say that during People's Prime Minister's Questions, Boris Johnson himself has given hope to couples planning on tying the knot next year and when a wedding venue owner (and bride-to-be herself) asked when the wedding industry is expected to recover, and moreso when big weddings are likely to recommence - BoJo himself said things could be back to normal as soon as Easter.

Does this give me faith? Yes. However whilst I am optimistic I understand that open very quickly as with last time I do not want to start getting my hopes up and start getting cocky about having my wedding day only to then have my hopes and dreams dashed at the last minute. All I know is that there are quite a few months between now and June. Christmas this year is going to be slightly different than I had originally thought, certainly very different from what previous Christmases have been over the last 29 years of my life. 

This year myself and my fiance (still) are going to be spending it just ourselves, just the same as how we have spent the entire of this year really. Good food and great company though is all you really need at Christmas isn't it? At least that is what I keep telling myself ... 

'Til next time, Love A.Lou xx

Giving with one hand and taking with the other

Evening Ya'll, 

So last week I explained my departure of leaving my job and handing in my resignation. It has been nearly a fortnight and almost halfway through my notice period and I suppose you could say that time flies when you're having fun, especially so when our current lockdown in England has been lifted. Well, Kinda?!

They dubbed it "Wild Wednesday" after Boris Johnson made his announcement of easing out of the second national lockdown in the space of a year which was imposed across England. All non-essential shops, restaurants, pubs and leisure facilities were to close for at least four weeks, starting at midnight on Thursday 5th November 2020, with measures due to remain in place until just last week. 

Now I must say, I was doubtful that Lockdown 2.0 would have ended n December 2nd, for various reasons, not least of which is my absolute lack of faith and trust in the government or what they have to say - Something many of my generation face after the coalition government fucked up university fees and screwed up most people's chance of getting on the housing ladder. It goes without saying that had the vaccine not been announced, and in the subsequent days that followed more and more good news about other vaccines and drugs and science then we would still be still simply kicking the inevitable can down the road by teetering between being locked down and free (with restrictions). 

That being said though, I am not sure that I know what it really feels like to be "free" again. Freedom from face masks, queuing for shops and unable to cuddle loved ones? I certainly don't feel "free". I still feel trapped as England has now returned to a stricter three-tier system, far worse than before. 

Some people have described it as just lockdown continuing just under a new name. As reported through the Independant.co.uk, different parts of the country have been allocated different tiers - medium, high or very high.  Dependant on the rates of coronavirus infection in the local area, the majority of areas have been placed in either tiers 2 or 3, with just three regions in tier 1: the Isle of Wight, Cornwall, and the Isles of Scilly. Just some of the areas placed in tier 2 include London, Somerset, York, and Cheshire, meanwhile, some in tier 3 include Bristol, Manchester, and Birmingham where the virus is rife. 

As with everything, the government has said that they cannot confirm an end date for such restrictions and that the tier system will be reviewed every 14 days. Should coronavirus infections have dropped substantially in a local area within this time then, naturally, its tier allocation could be lowered, or increased if changes in the opposite direction. 

The new tier system has been scheduled to run until the end of March 2021, however, Boris Johnson has now offered MPs a get out of jail free card (otherwise known as a “sunset clause”) that would end the system early due to a growing rebellion amongst the public as well as within the Conservative party itself. So living where I do, and working where I work, it turns out I am in tier 2 - High alert. But what does it mean and what can I and can't I do?! 

Meeting friends and family? The Gov.uk website states that "You can only meet socially with friends and family indoors who you either: live with or have formed a support bubble. ‘Indoors’ means any indoor setting, including private homes and other indoor venues such as pubs or restaurants". So basically if I don't like my household (which, as much as I love my dearest Mr Warehouse I have seen very little of anyone else's face this year than his) then your fucked. 

Gov.uk continues to state though that "you can see friends and family you do not live with or do not have a support bubble with outdoors, in a group of no more than 6. ‘Outdoors’ means in a private garden or other outdoor space. You can continue to meet in a group larger than 6 if you are all from the same household or support bubble" Unsurprisingly though, as before, this silly rule is inclusive of all children at any age. But you can send them to school with 30+ other kids?! 

But alas, "normal" sociable activities are still restricted. Gov.uk confirms that venues can host multiple groups and should follow COVID-secure guidance (whatever that means), however, you must not mix with anyone who is not part of your household or support bubble when you are indoors. This includes in: pubs and restaurants, shops, leisure and entertainment venues, personal care and close contact services, places of worship or public buildings such as libraries, community centres/halls, recycling and waste centres (oh yeah 'cause that's where the fucking parties are at the effing tidy tip), public toilets or car parks (although to be fair I have been to many a rave-up in a car park). And even if you do attend these places, at least one person in your group should give their contact details to the venue or check-in using the official NHS COVID-19 app so NHS Test and Trace can contact you if needed.

So where does this all leave us now? Well, we still have to go to work in an office environment (as long as it is COVID secure, again, whatever that means) and if you break any of the rules you better have a good bank balance as fines can be hefty. Have I been out for dinner yet? No. Will I? Yes. Can I guarantee that everyone in that restaurant lives with each other in that household - No of course not! No one will listen and with Christmas plans already confirmed by the government about who you can and can't spend the big day with, eating turkey and arguing over the queen's speech, I can't think of anyone that will abide by the new set of rules. 

I can guarantee that within a few weeks we will be in lockdown number three. We might make it into the new year, but rest assured it is almost certain to happen again. And despite the new Pfizer drug being rolled out throughout hospitals and doctors surgeries and care homes in the coming few days producing some golden news for the nation, I fear it will be a long while before we can hug friends and family again. 

'Til next time, Love A.Lou xx

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

Beginning of the end?

 Hello, 

On the start of a new week, we are about a third of the way through our current new lockdown 2.0 in the UK. Last week I wrote about the fabulous news that the huge pharmaceutical company Pfizer have produced a new coronavirus vaccine that is 90% effective (or at least as far as the early data suggests). And the good news continued as late last week I discovered a post on one of the wedding groups I am apart of with an open letter from the co-founder of BrideBook.com, a bridal organisation website helping with everything from guest lists to budgets. 

In another article on the helpful website, it goes into detail that there will be some significant effects on weddings to come into 2021. With 64% of 2020 weddings expected to be pushed-back, 2021 is set to be a busy one. Couples who have yet to find their suppliers or venues yet (I mean WTF are you doing with all your lockdown free time?!) will have to make quick decisions on dates to get first dibs on the date they want and guests can expect more clashes as midweek weddings make more of a comeback due to the limited dates left. On the bright side, the website expects post-coronavirus weddings will be bigger, bolder, and even more full of meaning. Everyone, including Mr Warehouse and I, are longing for the days of confetti, cake, and bubbly, and BrideBook.com have the scoop on the trends you can expect to see post-lockdown.

So what will be the Post-Quarantine Wedding Trends - and will I partake in any myself? I think everyone can agree that the one thing that has come from COVID ruining my fucking life is the normalisation of online meeting services, such as zoom in order to socialise and work from home. Travel restrictions may persist for some time, and with BrideBook.com expecting two-thirds of weddings post-lockdown to have at least some guests attending virtually, for us this is something I may reluctantly have to look into. With my Mrs Tweedle-Dumb located in sunny L.A and other friends and family, some of them elderly or with underlying health conditions scattered across the country, it may be the only option they can be included in the wedding at all without having to postpone a second time. 

Like most people who have worked from home the majority of the year, months of wearing the same pair of leggings and jumpers, I am certain that everyone will be jumping at the chance to dress up and look their best. BrideBook.com are expecting more adventurous guest fashion, with brighter, more fashion-forward dresses and bolder jewellery choices. And it won't just be guests making bold statements; the popularity of statement embroidered veils, feathers and even lights sewn into dresses are certainly something I have been sent on a few occasions from excited work colleagues and friends suggesting something unique for my special day. The article continues that trends to expect may see many more brides opting for more luxe looks including catwalk-inspired statement sleeves and pearl-embellished dresses as seen at the likes of Dior and Chanel. However since I have already purchased my dress, this is not something I can see myself adding, however, you know the old saying - Never Say Never!

With more time than ever to think about wedding details, BrideBook.com expect a move away from some more traditional elements to more creative and modern takes on decor. Floral hoops have also been growing in popularity, something I personally have thought about since I have an abundance of time and faux flowers, I am just a roll of Gaffa tape and a hula hoop away from the Pinterest goal. Post quarantine, I am expecting myself that there will be a revival of the Do-it-yourself Bride and Groom as couples cut costs where they can (and have more time on their hands!). 

Food is one of the most important items at any wedding, at least for me anyway and the pandemic has only heightened issues surrounding sustainability and the environment so it is no wonder that there has been a shift to a focus on menu seasonality, as well as plastic and waste reduction. This is something, whilst not being eco-warriors, was at the forefront of our mind when Mr Warehouse and I come to thinking about our own wedding breakfast as we wanted things to be from as local as we could get - The local meat, veg and suppliers all from within a thirty-mile radius. Moreso than anything to keep the cost down, it's always nice to have a bragging right that the pig your eating was wandering around in a field in the next village just last week. 

The BrideBook.com article continues that after the storm of COVID, when weddings begin again, they are set to go on till the early hours. This is something we are mindful of however as our venue (luckily) is restrictive on the noise and partying as it is in a residential area surrounded by houses and so the cut off will be a hard line. However, hopefully, all that learning Tiktok dances will help the dancefloor to move better and everyone will be eager to show off their new fancy footwork. 

For us, the gift registry was never really a thing as we had most things the traditional lists would force you into adding. Like many couples, we have been questioning what gifts we can live without. For Mr Warehouse and I, we have everything we need. Silver cutlery and crystal bowls are a nice memento, but I remember my parents never using them or only when special guests come over for dinner and so they sit in a draw, redundant for years. A costly present that is rarely used. Not something I would want to bestow anyone for their future. And so, like lots of couples, experiences, starter funds for a new home, a pet or funding a honeymoon will be higher on the agenda, not things. 

Despite me writing this whole god damned piece, the Facebook page still hasn't loaded for me to share with you the good news and wisdom from the original article which goes into detail about what the new Pfizer vaccine means and how this will affect weddings in the next year or so. In no uncertain terms, wedding before the end of March 2021 will see little changes and moving through the spring into April and May the vaccine will allow for the reopening of bigger venues in order to host what is being described as hosting weddings of "substantial numbers" (although what that means in terms of our personal circumstances is another matter). By June and July 2021, as summer peaks its head around, events such as theatre performances, gigs and music concerts and sports are set to return to pre-covid normality. I hate to get too optimistic, but maybe this is the beginning of the end?!

'Til next time, Love A.Lou xx

A Break Through?

Hello, 

Day five of current new lockdown 2.0 in the UK and I am fucking done already. Last week I wrote about how, just as Mr Warehouse and I had been released from our very own personal lockdown, we go into another effing one! After Boris Johnson made his announcment last Saturday (31st October 2020) Mr Warehouse and I decided to try and keep our faith high and enjoy the last few days of freedom before things started to seem bleak again like eating out and a spot of shopping. 

Our first few days have not been too bad since the second national lockdown in the space of a year which was imposed across England. Starting at midnight on Thursday (5th November 2020) with all non-essential shops, restaurants, pubs and leisure facilities to close for at least four weeks. 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).

As I contnue to go into the office, despite government advice to “stay and work from or at home” where possible, I like many other people are starting to feel the same blues and clouds roll in as the last lockdown. Desperately trying to keep my head above water is hard on most days but some days are easier than others and like the majority of the population I too am hoping that that things might get a little better with the prospect of Christmas being a bit more closer to "normal" than the rest of the year has been. 

I hate to be all doom and gloom about it but frustratingly this was meant to be my year. Mr Warehouse's year. To get married and have a cracking wedding that would be remembered for years. To have an amazing Hen do that would be joked about until we can no longer remember the original reference and a stag do to never be spoken of. To have an amazing honeymoon just enjoying each other on a beach somewhere with white, sandy, coconut lined beaches and cocktails a plenty. A year for spa breaks and weekends away with the dogs, just me an my future husband. A year to maybe start thinking to the future and who we might like to create to share it with. 

A year that has been stolen from me. Stolen from us. No wedding. No honeymoon. No hen or stag. Nothing. I almost feel like giving up on the whole thing, sacking it in and saying "HEY FUCK YOU CORONA" because she has ruined everything. I dont even feel joy when I think about the wedding. I just feel dread and grey because the prospect that it might not happen a second time around is a real possibility and I really dont know what I will do if I have to make that heart-agonising descision another time around. I just cant. 

Although, just as I was yet again loosing hope at my desk this morning I had a ray of sunshine through those dark storm clouds. it seems as though there might be some light at the end of the tunnel. News broke this morning after whispers from Mr Warehouse's place of work that a new drug was on its way and today as announced by many media outlets, including The Independant, that the huge pharmaceutical company Pfizer have produced a new coronavirus vaccine that is 90% effective (or at least as far as the early data suggests). The news article claimed that Scientists have hailed a major breakthrough after Pfizer and its German partner BioNTech announced that their vaccine appears to be 90 per cent effective in preventing disease. So far the vaccine has been tested on over 43,000 people in six countries and has so far proven to be safe for human use, raising hopes that the pandemic could be brought under control by summer of next year. The Independant report continues that the green light for the vaccine could be granted in the coming weeks, with the UK government “hopeful” that doses will be made available for Christmas. 

In an announcement this evening from the PM, Boris Johnson, this evening during a Downing Street press conference he said that whilst it was “very early days”, the vaccine had cleared a "significant hurdle” but insisted that the country cannot afford to “slacken our resolve at such a critical moment”. The Independant news article continues to explain in detail how the UK government has ordered 40 million doses of the Pfizer candidate, 10 million of which are due to be delivered by the end of the year if approval is granted. however, the longevity of the immune response provoked by the vaccine also remains unknown

But how does it work and who will get it? It is said that protection is achieved 28 days after the initiation of the vaccination, which consists of two doses, meaning up to five million people in the UK could be inoculated over the winter period. England's deputy chief medical officer Jonathan Van-Tam described the vaccine announcement as a huge milestone and said it was good news for other future vaccines in development. 

Authorities have stressed that initial supplies of the vaccine will be limited. The Independant goes on to say that an estimated 50 million doses - enough to vaccinate 25 million people - are expected to be available globally by the end of the year, with further aims to manufacture a total of 1.3 billion doses throughout 2021. 

It is silly to think however that this new Pfizer vaccine will be able to stop the UK’s mounting second wave however maybe we can be hopeful that it may prevent future waves and maybe, just maybe we can get back to living a normal life. As England's chief medical officer, Professor Chris Whitty, said the results demonstrated "the power of science against Covid”. 

It just makes you wonder doesnt it really; In the space of nine-months we have found a possible vaccine against a deadly wave of flu-like virus - So why have we not found a cure for cancer or genetic disabilities or AIDS? Unless someone has but companie make more money out of people being sick than people being well. Besides a controversial poit could be made that it is natures way of culling the population and keeping the numbers down?! But maybe that is for another day ... 

'Til next time, Love A.Lou xx