Sunday 31 May 2020

May Round Up


May's theme was 'lines' which is probably my favourite so far as it was so broad and therefore freeing. I've ended up taking most photos on my phone which was the opposite to what I wanted at the start of this project, but I've gone with it. 

Life is odd, static. May brought some news about re-openings of schools which will mean some contact with pupils next month and maybe, with that, some sense of normality in a very different Summer term to what I've ever experienced in my career. Setting work from home and the freedom of working remotely has been incredible for mental state; taking walks, finishing cups of coffee and having time to sleep and breathe has been a once in a lifetime break from a all or nothing existence. I'm not pretending that teaching is like a career in the SAS, but you have to be 'on' hour after hour and you work 6 day weeks, often evenings too. Usually at this time of year I would have been exhausted and looking forward to the lead up to the Summer break; instead it has been a case of doing the odd shift here and there and acting as a helpdesk by day. Technically this shouldn't be as tiring as school day, but it is still a bit tiring, mainly because I have been giving a lot of feedback and there is constant work to track for all classes.

Politically, there's been upset recently and people's social distancing efforts have been questionable in some cases. Parks have been enjoyed by, often, more than two people-- and the groups have not been sat 2 metres apart. Clearly it's been a challenge for people emotionally to be apart from their families and social groups. Introverts have probably had it easier and have come into their own, used to their own company and happy with it most of the time.

The cat has disowned us since the weather turned hot. Only seeing her briefly in the morning or evening makes me feel like the parent of a teenager. Still, it'll probably rain soon!

Life looks like it will plod on and some more businesses will re-open in June. I won't be rushing for a Starbucks or Mcdonald's, but the day I do have one will be a blissful moment I'm sure. Mostly, I miss the gym. It became a place to release stress and feel happy. Running in the evening helps, but my commitment is not quite as commendable, especially when hayfever and heat making it a snotty experience.

The photos this month reflect a dual feeling of peace, joy in nature, but also the dark shadows of the uncertain times lurking. An interesting month, for sure.


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