Lock-down Day 66

Seems like I've settled into lock-down life, doesn't it? Well, in some ways it's no different than when I'm between projects - just that the uncertainties no longer affect only me, but everyone. And my boss is experiencing the same uncertainties he always imposed on me, with his 'won't say anything until I know for sure' policy.

I've said that the different Levels haven't made much difference - in many aspects that's true. There are a lot of thoughtless restrictions, which could have made the 'hard lock-down' unbearable for me - only, I was one of the lucky ones. Like shutting down the whole country mid-move - no thought was given to people who had arranged to move at the end of March! Or the exclusion of essential repairs, specifically household appliances! Fridge, Kettle, Microwave, Stove, Oven, Washing machine - those are all essential! At the very least there should have been a channel of communication - where South Africans could alert government on the effect of their oversight! And then they allowed 7 people to crowd into minibuses! And they wonder why the disease keeps spreading!

The complete and utter misuse of the Police FORCE was another inexcusable mistake! They could have been a great asset - had their orders been to 'serve and protect'. Instead, they were let loose like a bunch of caged bullies! But what can you expect when you have a Police Minister who idolises 1920s gangsters to the point where he dresses like them, and his entire attitude and behaviour mimics a mob boss!

When they responded to any form of criticism with threats - that's when the mantle of 'health' slipped and their true colours were revealed! They actually want to hold Facebook Group Admins responsible for posts by members? Prosecute them? Seriously? So much for freedom of speech!

But it's their arrogant assumption of omniscience that caused the worst of the suffering! As I said, there was no means of communicating the plight caused by their oversights - instead, they got busy micro-managing our lives by implementing even more irrational regulations.

I've been very lucky, though. None of my household appliances needed repair, and I was able to stock up on most of what I would need, even though I had to compromise quality. Neither I nor my cats are going hungry, I have internet, so I can stay informed - and I can even still help people who are worse off than I am. The worst aspect for me, personally, has been this irrational ban on the sale of cigarettes. But now that I have secured a source - it's no longer an issue.

Well, that's not quite true. It's still an issue because a) I'm paying twice as much for a carton, b) the brand available is sub-standard, it's the brand I used to smoke in PE, which caused breathing and coughing problems, until I changed to a more expensive brand, and c) I can only get the strongest type! So, it still IS an issue for me; since I now take only a few puffs of this strong brand, to avoid the health issues which caused me to change brands! And, of course, as this is a 'cheap' brand, I'm not really paying double the retail price, but triple!

Well, I woke to Mewthos happily twirling on the bed! He makes a kind of gro-purr sound when he does that - like he's purring and growling at the same time. More like humming along? My little weirdo!

I let them out and sat down here - only to find the game not working. So, I took a little time to write.

I had made a plan last night, what I wanted to do today, so I got started quite early. Laundry, dishes, then bread dough and cookie dough. I meant to make wholemeal, just to get a decently risen loaf for a change and to use up the nutty wheat flour - but then decided, since I've finished the 'bad' batch, to go for white, after all. Mistake! Blerry thing sits like a spiteful lump at the bottom of the pan, refusing to rise! Well, I've rolled it into a thin, long loaf - like a baguette.

Of course, I'm now wondering WHY I keep ending up with lumps? It's a different bag of flour now, a different batch of yeast, different sugar even. I think I should make a batch with either wholemeal or brown bread flour, after all, just to see the result! Dang! That, of course, means that I can't mix in the nutty wheat, or I won't know the cause.

As I was making my coffee this morning, I thought how it would be different with the coffee maker, and I feel confident that I'll be using it. It's not so very different. I used to fill the kettle in the evenings, so that all I would have to do in the morning was switch it on - but that doesn't work so well, when you're not in a block of flats, as the ants get into the kettle. Now I fill it in the mornings - which gets a bit tricky in winter, when it's still dark, because I don't like putting on the lights. Silly, I know, but I don't like bright lights, unless I'm reading.

I remembered the mushrooms I had bought last week - and forgotten until now. I've now made a sauce with them and sour cream again, and added some screw noodles - which I enjoyed for dinner. The bread doesn't look too bad - looks like it did some more rising in the oven while it was baking.

I made another batch of cookie dough and also baked another two batches. If I keep up this pace, I should manage to build up stock! Even though they are still irresistibly delicious! I also make them bite-sized - not big, so I can just pop one in my mouth! I prefer that to having to bite pieces off, as there are always crumbs - and with good cookies,  crumbs are such a waste!

As I was baking cookies, someone started a watch party - our president was talking again. This time, I have to say, I didn't switch off in disgust. He admitted to several mistakes, among them the way the cigarette ban announcement was handled. He also said they are building the foundation of a National Health System - which I feel is much needed! Too many people go without treatment, simply because it's beyond their financial means. Strangely enough, even though he admitted to receiving massive aid from China - he also said that from here onward, the country should look to local manufacturers and local goods, rather than import. I'm not quite sure what to make of it all ... let it sink in and marinate for a while :)

More exciting news is that the first commercial rocket has been launched! Meme's are going around saying 'Two men left earth! Good choice!'. Personally, I believe that space is an important frontier, if humanity wants to survive and keep growing. If we stay on Earth, we will stagnate - and the current conspiracy theories are just what we'll percolate / marinate in, and that's not progress.

Here's some fun: A few minutes ago, the Minister of Education announced that School re-opening has been postponed. FFS! At 8 in the evening, the night before they change the date? How many parents won't receive that information in time? How many kids will show up at school? What a total eff-up!

Oh, and even if they lift the ban on the sale of cigarettes - they're busy with legislation making smoking illegal just about everywhere! I'm just shaking my head here ...

Anyway, I've enjoyed a lovely bath, mippies are all curled up on the bed - they all came without much of a wait, tonight! And I've eating quite a few cookies ... they ARE irresistible!

Lock-down Day 65

I woke up to find a notice from Facebook telling me that my post was removed, as it goes against Community Standards on information that could cause physical harm. Specifically: "We encourage free expression, but don't allow false information about COVID-19 that could contribute to physical harm."

This is the post they object to:

Ridiculous, right?

Well, I'd let mippies out, played catch with Mewthos when he came mewling ... then shut him in and went to get the milk I couldn't get yesterday.

Interesting fact: I'm now enjoying the same painful hips my mum enjoyed - only, she was at least a decade older than I am now. Lately, it's the pain of lying on my hips which wakes me - during the night and in the morning. I think it has to do with my being pinned down during the night, unable to move :) Thank you mippies, he he he!

I took an anti-inflamatory and tried to lie down - but I'm not sleepy, even curled around three mippies! So I got up again, still with a headache, though. I've paid my rent - now let's see how much I have left for groceries. And lets see what groceries are available online! I'll have to order a batch of treats for my mippies as well ...

Well, well, well! Flour is back in stock - in a big way! I can get just about anything online, today! Even though I have stock, I've decided to over-stock. I haven't baked much bread lately, because the one bad bag has kind of spoiled it for me. Fortunately that bag is finished now, so I can go back to normal.

I'm shopping from 2 different stores: Faithful to Nature (FTN) and Yuppiechef. I'm re-stocking flour in a big way - every type that I use! White bread, wholemeal bread, rye and cake flour - the 2 bags of brown bread flour are enough. I'm getting cocoa powder and chocolate chips. It's the chocolate chips that led me to Yuppiechef, as none were available at FTN. At first I decided to leave the chips - after all, I don't really need them in my cookies, though they add a lot to muffins! Can't get baking chocolate at either store, though - so I'll keep getting that at Spar.

Then, while I was on Yuppiechef, I decided to look at coffee makers ... and came across Moka Pots! It's like a coffee machine, only it works on a stove-top - with the water boiling UP through the filter into the pot! Weird, I know! I watched a short video how it works - unlike those 'cups' where you end up with ground coffee IN your drink! That was my main concern - I don't like coffee grind in my coffee.

Mostly, what I really needed though, was cleaning materials and bath goodies. My fabric softener is almost finished, I'm using my last bottle of dish-washing liquid - and, with all my lovely hot baths, I've used up a fair bit of foam baths and bath oils! I'm also out of soap - I'm now using one of my 'box' soaps; cheap soap I put in boxes to keep insects out.

I still haven't made up my mind about the coffee machine ... it IS a luxury, not a necessity. Or is it? I do drink coffee every day - and the instant coffee hasn't been on special as often as in the past, and it is also getting more and more expensive, even on special. But filter coffee is always more expensive than instant. Not an easy decision ... but I think I'll go for it! Firstly, the coffee maker isn't very expensive, and secondly, it doesn't take up much space, either. But, unlike with instant coffee, I'd need to wash the pot after every use - with instant, I only need to wash the cups :)

Grin, I could always argue that, since I can't get cigarettes legally, I can compensate with coffee! Are you buying that? Ha Ha Ha!

Okay, let me complete my purchases and spend what little money I have left! No chocolates, no sweets, just the means to make my own.

Mewthos worried the crap out of me tonight! Came home VERY late! I went out looking for him - no luck. No Mewthos! Fortunately, as always, just as I was getting frantic, he came mewling up the path! I'd been standing at the door calling, hoping he comes home ... for about the third or fourth time! I keep telling myself that, if Ziva is behaving normally, there's no reason to worry - she would know if Mewthos was hurt, and would take me to him. Like she did the first time he got hurt. 

Well, he missed treat time! There was still some left in his bowl, but he wants the full routine - and I'm sorry, but it was time for MY dinner, by the time he got home! He settled for sharing my steak!

Then I had a nice hot bath, and after that I completed my online purchases. I decided to get the coffee maker. Apart from the taste, I love the smell of fresh coffee! You don't get that from instant coffee! Hmm, my mouth is watering just thinking about it, now. I'm not sure how long I'll have to wait, though. With the lock-down and the irrational ban on eCommerce, everyone's got a backlog they are trying to catch up on. Well, no rush - nothing urgent!

Well, I'll be spending time in the kitchen tomorrow. Time to bake a little - like cookies! Ha Ha! I paid Leon to refill my spare gas bottle today - wouldn't want to run out! Especially not now, that I'm baking up a storm!

And tomorrow, I want to spray some doom around the place - the mosquitoes are driving me nuts again! Have been for days - even in this cold! And they bite my mippies, too!

Lock-down Day 64

I woke early and left early, hoping to get home early as well. No such luck! They made such a mess of the store papers - it took me until one to sort that all out!

As I was leaving for work, the worker came to talk to me. He told me he's had enough, the way Leon talks to him is just not tolerable anymore and now he wants to pay no more than a pittance! I did mention that jobs are hard to come by - but I know what he means. Remember how he shouts at me every time I wash a 2nd load of laundry? And I'm a paying customer!

That reminds me, I should pay the rent today ... I think I'll leave it for tomorrow! It took a lot longer to update the game spreadsheet today, too ... it's already half past five, now, and I still haven't done all I wanted. Ah, well ...

I've had dinner - warmed up the pie again. Good think I took a full jar of cookies to work this morning - I had only one left when I got home! Fortunately I still have dough, so I could simply bake another batch. Again, I think I'll leave it for tomorrow.

Some good news on the court cases. First, the DA's constitutional challenge:

The Chief Justice has handed down a directive today, that the Constitutional Court will consider arguments in the DA’s application for direct access to challenge the Disaster Management Act in the highest court of the land.

If the Disaster Management Act governing the lockdown does not meet constitutional muster, it means the decisions taken by the NCC under this Act are not valid.

This opens the way for more rationality and accountability in the management of this COVID-19 pandemic and of our economy going forward.

That would really be awesome! And then, the DA also commented on the lies on which the continued ban on the sale of cigarettes is based. I'm not wasting my time reading through all the details of the Level 3 regulations - as I expected, it's nothing more than an extension ... I mean, you're not allowed to visit your family, but you are allowed to go to church? Well, limited to 50 people per service, but still. These regulations are no longer about the pandemic, but totalitarianism, wanting to control every aspect of everyone's life!

I've warmed the pie again - it tastes better every time! And then went outside to lure mippies home - they all came within minutes! I was quite impressed! Now I want to run myself a nice hot bath again ... I haven't seen our worker here, since I got back. I wonder if he did leave? I'll find out soon enough ...

Right, I had my bath, then Mewthos went through my last nerve - I don't know what it is with that boy! He mewls, wanting to play catch - I play ... but I'm not a teenager, and don't have his energy! Then he goes and fights with Ziva, then with Janey ... then runs around mewling again.

Well, he's quiet now. That's when he's cute! But not so cute that I won't dislodge him to get into bed myself! Ha Ha, those days are over! I'll ruthlessly cuddle mip after mip to get under the duvet and get comfy!

Sjoe, it's only eight now, but it feels later. Probably having been at work most of the day. Ah well, I've had my bath, so time for bed ...

Lock-down Day 63

At least today is a little warmer than yesterday. Getting out of bed wasn't such a tough choice! Mippies ran out quite happily, except for Mini. She likes to stay on the bed for a while, before going for her morning walkabout.

I've not done too much today. I got a call, I'll be going in to work tomorrow - process Delivery Notes so they can be invoiced, and set the production plan for the small goods. I asked about cigarette prices, as I heard they had gone sky-high - but I can still get them at the same price. Triple the legal price, sigh.

It's not as cold as yesterday, but not exactly warm either, so I guzzled coffee all morning to keep warm! At the PC, not moving about much. I'm now having a few puffs of a cigarette, then putting it out, re-lighting for another few puffs later ... stretching the cigarettes I have for as long as I can.

I've prepared another dough for more cookies, so when I warm up my dinner tonight, I'll bake some more. Hopefully I'm finally getting ahead on my gobbling habit, ha ha ha! Amazingly, I still have a few left from the last batch I baked - so, maybe there's hope?

I've been reading up on the progress of the court case to lift the ban on the sale of cigarettes. There's another court case over the same issue, but for a different reason, coming up. On the current one, however, the 'scientific documentation' is flimsy, at best - which should be hopeful, except that no ANC has ever been held responsible for any actions, that I know of. Which makes me worry that she may have something else up her sleeve ... or maybe she's so drunk on her current power, she thinks her word is law? The DA is also very concerned whether South Africa will EVER emerge into normal again - whether those currently drunk on their power, will ever hand it back.

Oh, and the current joke is that it's not a cold front, but all the bottle stores switching their fridges back on (in time for 1st June, when alcohol will be sold again in South Africa)! I read that sales will be allowed Mon-Thu, but not Fri-Sun nor public holidays. There is only 1 public holiday in the near future - 16th June. The next after that is only in August! WHAT ARE THEY PLANNING? How much longer must we flip-flop along with these ridiculous regulations?

Right now, it's just gone five, so I'm waiting for mippies to come along, so I can close the front door and enjoy a hot bath to warm up! I haven't yet decided whether I first want to eat, then bath or the other way around. I also want to bake more cookies when I warm up my food, he he he.

NDZ held a long 'brief' explaining the Level 3 regulations. I didn't bother to try and watch that - for myself, I simply assume that Level 3 may open some business, like Level 4 did, but put more restrictions on citizens. Like the curfew introduced for Level 4, which we didn't have in Level 5. 

Three mips came home without much wait - well, Lady Jane was a little late but Mewthos was VERY late! So late, in fact, that I went out to look for him! He came running soon enough, then toddled along under my feet! I always worry when he's late, even more when he's the last mip! It's not like him!

They enjoyed their treat, then I ran myself a bath and afterwards I baked cookies, warmed my dinner and enjoyed! Mippies were upset, as I'm not eating something they like, too!

I just read the account of someone who was suspected of having the coronavirus - yikes! What a scary - and painful - experience! Just for all the tests they do - I do NOT want to go through that! EVER!

Ah, and I was right about the Level 3 regulations! According to the DA they are as irrational and draconian as everything else that's come out of that council ... what a waste of oxygen!

Anyway, Mewthos has had his play time and they're now all curled up on the bed ... my cookies are delicious ... time to join my mippies!

Lock-down Day 62

Yikes it is freezing cold today! It's now half past ten and not even 15 Celsius! I woke up early this morning and every breath was visible! I couldn't move an inch, either, as I was tightly wedged between 4 mips! All on top of the duvet, pinning me under the duvet! They only started to get up around seven, so I got up and opened the door for them. They rushed out, but - predictably - Mewthos came mewling back very soon! The cold seems to hurt his crippled leg, poor baby! Which didn't stop him from bringing a mouse inside, though! Urgh!

Apart from playing catch with Mewthos half the morning - sheez, that boy is exhausting - I didn't really move from the PC a lot. It's really cold today! I've decided to make some pie today with all the left-overs, I still have rice & veggies as well as some potatoes. I took out some mince to add and frozen dough, which I had bought.

I see that NDZ believes that by banning the sale of cigarettes for as long as she can, she'll create a 'Nation of Quitters'! There's your agenda! Nothing to do with the coronavirus! I read an interesting article, though not published officially, which I fear makes a lot of sense. Basically, NDZ is doing her utmost to bring about as much unrest as she possibly can. Why? Because then she can follow the State of Disaster with a State of Emergency - and stay in power indefinitely. There is already mention of cancelling next year's election!

In the meantime, our government has still not provided anyone with the details of the Level 3 regulations - which means that business' will NOT be able to get ready in time. Which effectively delays the actual Level 3! They also have not yet opened for UIF applications for May! Today is the 27th May! And the special fund created for all who cannot claim UIF? Has paid a total of 10 people! Two whole months and they have not been able to fulfill their promise!

In my own little world, I washed the dishes, swept the whole flat and washed the floors. Not deep clean or thorough wash - just making it look clean! Well, with tile cleaner, so it was real cleaning, I just didn't go into too much detail, that's all. And, of course, all the piddle puddles are washed! Like the one in the kitchen, and I found another few, little ones all over! If only Mewthos didn't look so cute and wasn't such a cuddle-bear - I could maybe find what it would take to discipline him! Ha Ha! Yeah, with animals, I don't believe disciplining is the answer - there's a reason for their behaviour. I just haven't found it, yet. I want to see what happens, if I finally find and get a bigger piddle box for him.

I took all my leftovers, mixed it with the mince, added some cheese and some frozen beans, added some spices and wrapped pie dough around the whole lot. It's in the oven now - I wonder how that will turn out? The bread turned out better than the last couple - half good flour made a difference! I hope the bad batches are now in the past.

The pie presented me with a bit of a problem, when it came to how to eat it, ha ha! I made this big fat pie, but I didn't think how I'll cut it and put it on a plate! Well, I managed okay - and the pie was absolutely delicious!

Mippies came in with very little delay - Lady Jane again. I enjoyed a hot bath - and,of course, I had baked another batch of cookies! Ha Ha Ha!

I didn't get around to working on the photos, nor did I manage to look at groceries needed ... maybe tomorrow!

Mippies are now all four curled up together again - I took a photo! It's too cute, and so lovely to see Mini finally accepted! She's not yet getting washed by any of the others ... not yet. Considering how close my mippies are, as they are related, it's been an uphill battle to be accepted in that tight family! Her naughty streak probably doesn't help, little minx! 

Lock-down Day 61

Mippies wanted to get up early, but it's so cold, I resisted until about seven. Then, first, I picked up everything they had pushed and pulled off the bed in their attempt to bully me into getting out from under the warm duvet!

Mewly came back before eight, followed by Ziva and Mini, so I shut them in and went off to get my milk. I was so early, they hadn't filled my bottles, yet - and gave me one of the standard bottles.

I got somewhat busy today, first preparing bread dough, then preparing dough for another batch or two of cookies. I used up the last dough to bake 6 last cookies - I'm eating them almost as fast as I can bake them! They are really lovely! Oh, nowhere near as lovely as the Choc-Oat-Delights from Rose's daughter - but then, I'm not much good at baking and she's a professional! I miss those cookies! I wonder whether she's started online-shopping for them now?

Remember when this blog site had gone all funny? And it took me a day or so to get back to normal? Well, this morning there was a notification that 'funny' is the new layout. So I decided to change over to that and get used to it. It's not so bad - just that I don't like change.

With the continued ban on cigarette sales and limited lift on the ban on alcohol sales, I was wondering when someone would analyse the financial implications. BusinessTech did an article - and it looks bad, very, very bad!

I'm glad to see that FITA is going ahead with their court case, after BAT dropped us smokers :) As soon as they could manufacture and export, they withdrew their case. FITA, who can also manufacture and export, did not withdraw. Dlamini-Zuma claims she's ready! Personally, I have a very bad feeling about this. I hope I'm wrong, but I have a very strong suspicion that she's going to have the sale of cigarettes banned permanently. From the few comments she has made so far, it appears that her 'scientific documentation' is all related to the effect of smoking on health in general - nothing whatsoever linking to COVID-19. Only the fact that the coronavirus attacks the respiratory system. And considering how little is still known about this virus, that's tenuous to say the least - which should mean that the court case should be a slam dunk in favour of lifting the ban ... especially as there ARE also scientific documents claiming that nicotine actually helps fight the virus. But where our government is concerned, justice rarely prevails.

The Coronacast was interesting again! I like that the DA make every effort to provide information, and also open platforms for us to ask questions - which they then make every effort to answer! Interestingly enough, they mentioned that today on the Coronacast as well - how, as a result of this pandemic, by looking for alternative means to communicate, they've actually found a goldmine! Not their words, but mine. As a result ALL political meetings and discussions are now open to the public IN THE COMFORT of our own homes! I certainly never attended a council meeting before! And this also means that politicians can more easily be held accountable! Politics are more transparent! I sure am enjoying this!

They also said that they won't be contesting the ban on the sale of cigarettes, they will apply their resources to cases fighting for those, who don't have the resources to fight for themselves. They are a political party, not a business. The tobacco industry has the financial resources to fight for their rights - the hungry being denied hot food from soup kitchens, do not. I fully agree with that. Also, by contesting the legality / constitutionality of so many of the restrictions - like the curfew, the 3-hour exercise window - they ARE fighting for our human rights, which includes our right to buy cigarettes.

He also said that, personally, he is convinced that there is something fishy about upholding that specific ban. There is definitely something going on that hasn't yet come to light.

The rest of the Coronacast was just as interesting, going into the details of Level 3, how they plan on treating Hot Spots, etc.

Well, I baked yet another batch of cookies tonight. The bread didn't rise properly - again, even though half the flour was from a new packet. I didn't bother to shape it much, just left it in a round lump and baked it. I'll have a slice tomorrow for breakfast. For tea I enjoyed my chicken. Mewthos smelled something yummy, so I shared a few pieces of chicken with my mips!

You'll be happy to hear that I've also started processing the photos. I've only started by selecting the ones I'd like to upload - I'm at September 2019 now, still have the following months worth of photos to look through. I've grouped them by month, so I'll upload them by month. What I'll do is, I'll date the post for the last day of the relevant month and I'll post a link in my current post to the photo post(s). You won't be missing out, I promise!

The next step, of course, is to edit each photo. I take photos at highest possible resolution, which makes for a very large file - which I can't upload. So, I open each photo in my photo program, crop it, maybe touch it up a little, then save it as a low-resolution, small file; which I can then upload. But yeah, it takes a lot of time. So there may still be some waiting for you ...

Hmm ... interesting article from the black tobacco farmers, who claim government has made a deal with the devil by continuing the ban.

Mippies came in nice and early, Lady Jane a little later but still in time for a the second treat. And then Mewthos went into play mode! He just LOVES to play catch, lately! Sits and mewls and when I get up, he runs off and I must follow and catch him! He's learned that in the lounge, I can't really get to him, so I leave again ... now he runs into the kitchen or the bathroom mostly, where I can catch him. Pick him up, hold him, cuddle him until he wriggles to be let down ... and starts again!

Our president is addressing us again, I missed the beginning and then saw that it was a call for a National Day of Prayer ... I listened anyway, but when he started saying how 'the faith has fed the hungry' I had to switch it off in disgust! Yes, religious organisation have TRIED to feed the hungry - but the ANC confiscated the food and made it illegal! Only when the DA took them to court were they allowed to feed people again! And I don't believe any of the confiscated food was ever returned! Pretty much the same applies to EVERY effort churches and other religious charities have made to help the most vulnerable! I just couldn't listen to that ...

On a personal note, I'm still struggling with temperatures ... one minute I'm hot, the next I'm cold. Same thing all night long. It's like one of my mippies is playing with my internal thermostat :) 

I had just finished typing that last sentence ... when the PC crashed! Not in the normal way - where it flashes the blue screen, and then comes back on. No, it fuzzed the whole screen, then cleared the fuzz but everything was frozen ... eventually I switched it off. Only ... it wouldn't switch back on! It would start switching on, then go off again, start again, off again, on and on and on and on. I figured, okay - I'll look at it tomorrow ... but then my mind went on a tangent! See, those photos? They are ONLY on the PC now! I haven't backed them up, yet, and I also cleared them off the camera ... That's all the photos I took from October last year! What if they are all gone? What if ... what if ... what if ...

No chance of sleep with that buzzing around my mind, so I got up again and did the only thing I CAN do: Open the PC and clean it! I did just a rough job, since I really just need it to work again so I can sleep in peace ... do a thorough job tomorrow. Nope! It still wouldn't work. So, I opened it again and cleaned as carefully but thoroughly as I could! The dust bunnies had been at it like bunnies, giving me a lot of work! As you can see, I was successful and my PC is working again! BIG RELIEF!

I'll definitely process those photos tomorrow!  At least until they're all backed up!

Now it's nearly ten and I'll be glad to go to sleep ...

Lock-down Day 60

I didn't get / make time to write today. It's now almost nine at night ... mippies are all four cuddled together on my bed - it's so cute, I don't want to disturb them! And yes, all four! Mini is right in the mix, between Ziva and Lady Jane! Great strides :) I must really make time to upload photos, so that I can clear my camera! I'm itching to take a photo of the four of them all cuddled together! It is soooo darling!

I cooked myself a paella type meal - chicken thighs with rice, beans, brussels sprouts, carrots and celery. I also baked another batch of cookies - I can't keep up with the baking! I'm happy to say that the margarine seems to be working out very well! I've already eaten half of the batch I baked today!

Mippies kept me busy, but so did the game. I've avoided Facebook mostly today - the anger and fury at the continued cigarette ban is getting ugly.

Well, that's about all for today ...

Lock-down Day 59

Every morning I look at my past posts (just the headings), then repeat the next number in my head until this page finally opens and I can type the heading with the correct Day number. And then I sit in front of a blank page, with the heading, shaking my head wondering how we got here! From life-as-we-knew-it all our lives, to so many days in the Twilight Zone!

Everywhere they talk of the 'new normal' - some claiming this is brain washing us into acceptance. Conspiracy theories are gaining momentum - especially since our government shares practically no information with us! THAT, in my opinion, is the equivalent on incitement to revolt! The only time government officials communicate with the public, is to issue instructions, warnings and threats.

The latest news item is now, that apparently the opposition to the ban on the sale of cigarettes is EXCLUSIVELY coming from the tobacco industry! The ANC are so far out of touch with the citizens they are meant to govern, that they do not even recognise the voice of their people! They have now lashed out saying: Stop questioning, do as you're told, or else ... notice how they clearly assume they are addressing businesses? They have totally lost touch!

When a member of the Advisory Council spoke to the press, and some statements were reported out of context, the ANC retaliated! All she did was give us, the citizens of this country, some information - for which she is now being crucified!

I've never been particularly interested in politics. Yes, I listen to the news, I stay in touch - but, like most average citizens, I don't have the time to actively get involved. My life is full. But now? Now I have nothing but time! And now, politics is forced upon me! And, if someone like me is reaching the point of wanting to DO something ... is this how civil wars start? Is that where we're heading?

The M&G published an interesting article on how Mauritius apparently beat the virus. Most notably was their open and transparent co-operation with their citizens. THAT, in my opinion, is the key to success. Which our government - and so many around the world - lack completely!

I see we'll have another address from our president tonight. At least this time, they are telling us WHEN, well in advance. I wonder whether that means, he'll be on time, for a change?

Anyway, back to my little life. I'll have to wash the kitchen floor today - I mopped up the puddle yesterday, but it needs a wash, of course. First, though, I'm washing my laundry. Which, I'm sorry to say, includes one of my duvets ... which also received the Mewthos' sign of approval! Ai, ai, ai - I don't know what he thinks he's doing!

Predictably, once the 2nd load is in the machine, Leon comes frothing at the mouth shouting at me for using such a lot of water! Ha Ha Ha! As if I still care! Especially, since he starts shouting again while I'm attempting to explain - he interrupts me most rudely! Thing is, my machine avoids wasting water. So, what happens is: It draws water, then 'weighs' whether the amount of water is enough for the load in the machine. If not, it draws a little more, then checks again. So in total, it draws less water for smaller loads and more water for bigger loads. Perfect example of feeling vs reality, eh? He FEELS I'm using too much water - and acts out his feelings = throws a tantrum. Ha Ha Ha!

Sadly, the second load didn't spin properly - again. I had to hang it up pretty much soaking wet. And then the little stand fell over - and my wet, white towels landed in the dirt! Fortunately they were for kitty use, not the one's I use myself. So, it's not really a problem.

I'm saddened to report that my cookies are not meant to live long ... I just can't stop munching one after the other! Both batches, despite their short comings, are still delicious! I'm going to have a tough time keeping up baking them! Today, however, instead of another batch of cookie dough, I'm going to attempt butter making again. This time with ONLY 1 liter milk - plus the cultured butter milk - but without adding any cream! The milk has quite a lot of cream already - let's see how much butter I'll get from that!

For my meal I've decided to steam the potatoes. I love potatoes with just butter! I'm not in the mood for much cooking, but I will need to plan some meals with some of the meat I've bought. I'll also need to pack the chicken hearts I managed to get yesterday! The freezer is really full, so I really need to make a plan to cook meals with what's in there. I couldn't even freeze the bananas - there just isn't space! I used them all up in milk shakes yesterday.

Okay, the butter making was another failure! Third time unlucky! So I did some research. The reason the butter-making-kit requires half a liter whipping cream is because THAT's where the butter comes from. To make butter from raw milk, without adding half a liter store-bought cream, I would need to skim the cream off, and then make butter from ONLY that cream. And you get about 110 gram from 2 liters ... my first thought was: That would be what I pay for butter anyway, not worth the trouble. But then I got to thinking that I'd just have to find a routine to skim the cream off, and I'd get the milk (skimmed, but still) PLUS the butter! That WOULD be worth it! But it would mean decanting the milk ... into ... what? Hmmm ... some thinking to do here.

The potatoes were a success, of course! I made both simultaneously - using the steamer as my timer. I flippen mixed and mixed that milk for half an hour solid, ha ha ha!

When I sat outside to lure mippies home, Lady Jane made us wait. While we were waiting, I saw all three cats sit up, staring fixedly in one direction ... some dogs had gotten onto the property! I was a little worried that Janey was staying in hiding and not coming home out of fear of the dogs, so when I got the three inside, I went for a walk - just to make sure. But Janey was nowhere to be seen ... she showed up a little later, though. Safe and sound!

I listened to what our president had to say. First he listed what they've achieved - without any mention of how much less that is than he promised in April. Then he told us how some countries have patted him on the back for doing such a great job - without any details. And finally he got to the announcements: Firstly, the whole country will go to Level 3 on 1st June. Then he listed 'hot spots' - but gave no details how they would be handled, or what difference applies in those. Then he listed a few restrictions which would fall away - exercising will no longer be limited to 3 hours in the morning, the curfew will be lifted. Alcohol sales will be permitted - though with severe restrictions. Tobacco sales will remain banned 'for health reasons'. Then he listed industries which will be allowed to start opening and which will NOT be allowed to operate.

Two things I 'heard' between the lines: 1st, he made a big issue of the Western Cape having more confirmed cases than any other province - claiming half the countries confirmed cases are in that one province. Considering that this has been explained, repeatedly AND backed with transparent records ... I heard "I ignore the scientific facts, but I won't pass an opportunity to malign the opposition". That was a juvenile jab!

And the 2nd was the ban on tobacco products. That was another juvenile retaliation against the tobacco industry - whom they mistakenly believe to be behind the petition (now signed by nearly 300 000 people) to remove Zuma! And THAT is going to have serious consequences - because smokers are no longer upset, nor even angry. They are furious! Myself included, even though I saw this coming.

Oh, and there was another point he made: anyone over the age of 60 should not go back to work! I'm curious how they will abide by that, themselves - since most of the people currently making these laws are well over 60!

Well, time for bed. Mewthos has already gone nuts, running around mewling - his usual evening spiel! And I've put the washed duvet back on the bed, even though one corner is still soaking wet. I've placed it so that that corner is off the bed.

Lock-down Day 58

Mippies were not happy about my morning plans! Mewthos mewled and performed to get me to open the door - and when I finally got up, he carried on and on until I gave them a treat, so I could at least have a cup of coffee!

On the way, I didn't see much police presence, but I went to the Spar first, anyway. Let's get some legitimate shopping, just in case. Also, I was hoping to get more baking chocolate. I got lucky and did get quite a lot more baking chocolate! But I noticed that you have to really, really check every single product's expiry date! They had grapes on special, and some of them were 'best before 21 May'. Today is the 23rd!

They didn't have much fruit juice - but they did have a few small, breakfast boosters. This time they had some items, which I couldn't get last time. Like Doom. Well, different brand, but same effect. And they had frozen pastry. They also had baking margarine on special, so I decided to take 2 bricks. Yes, I had read that margarine is not as good as butter - especially in cookies, but they didn't have any butter at all, today! And it's still expensive. Too expensive.

Overall, I'm happy with my success in getting the 'missing' groceries. Oh, I also got another coffee - still expensive! I want to look into filter coffee - only: I don't have a filter! I mean the holder, where you put the paper filter in. Can't do without that.

At work it was really good to see At after all this time! I had packed him a handful of my peanuts - I know he likes peanuts! I had also taken my mini pizzas with, so I could have some breakfast - he also enjoyed that! We sat and had a smoke and a chat.

Then my other colleague arrived and brought me my cigarettes and I could come home to my mippies! Who had left a major piddle puddle in the kitchen! That was the main piddler, aka Mewthos! He just stood with his back to the gap between my kitchen drawers and the cleaning bucket and let rip! How can I be so sure? Height! None of the girls are that high off the ground!

First, I got in touch with my friend from PE - the one who helped me pack. He'd asked if I could help him out, please - he is one of those without income now and UIF hasn't paid him out, either!

This pandemic is putting a lot of people through the wringer - not only those who get the disease. I help where I can, but my resources are also limited, as I'm not earning an income, either. But at least I can help friends!

Then, as I was tired, I took a nap, curled around Mewthos who had claimed my bed! 

I couldn't decide on food for today, so I didn't. I baked another batch of cookies - just my luck that after a perfect batch I bake a flop! I filled two trays, the first one I took out too soon and the second a little too late. Ha Ha Ha! I should have paid more attention - but it was at the time mippies should be coming in. Wrong time for baking, as I'm very distracted!

Mippies arrived nice and early, without much trouble - and all four of them! Well, Mini tends to stay nearby anyway and Mewthos also stays close, mewling for attention throughout the day. Oh, they all go for a faraway walkabout some time during the day, and who goes when also changes, they're clearly not 'fixed routine' animals :)

Well, I enjoyed a lovely hot bath, spent time chatting with my friend, did some catching up in my game and then went to bed. 

Lock-down Day 57

Well, I had no message that cigarettes were available today. I messaged an hour ago, no reply ... so I let the cats out! They were besieging me already - all four on the bed, weighing their complaints. Mewthos standing by my head mewling at the top of his voice! Mini pulling my hairbrush off the bed, pawing for the next thing to drop. Cold as it was, I gave in and got up to let them out!

It didn't take long for Mewthos to come mewling back - I picked him up and held him, which he loves, then let him go again. He stayed away for quite a while. He came back eventually, around nine, I think. So I shut him in and went off to get my milk. As I drove to the gate I saw Ziva - who jumped out of the way. No sign of Lady Jane, though. She only appeared again quite a while after I got back.

As I left, I saw a message on my phone: cigarettes only tomorrow. So, I'll go to work tomorrow. I'm a bit worried about that, since it's a weekend and I'm not really going shopping - so, if I'm stopped, what's my excuse? Hmm, maybe I should do a little shopping? I wouldn't mind some fruit juice and chocolate chips or baking chocolate.

Speaking of chocolate chips, those cookies are a failure. In the sense that they were supposed to keep as a chocolate treat. They have turned outs so absolutely yummy that I can't keep my hands off them! Seriously! I've nearly finished my entire stash already! I still have a little dough left, but I should really make some more - preferably today, eh? So that I can bake more tomorrow.

The mini pizzas are also a success! I've enjoyed quite a few of those as well!

Mewthos has been twirling his rear off again last night! He went on and on and on and on, totally confuzzling Mini, who had curled up to sleep right next to where Mewthos decided to twirl. The look on her face spoke volumes! It was really funny!

I stumbled across interesting news again. I've been doing a lot of that kind of stumbling lately, haven't I? Well, I'm stuck at home, running out of cigarettes, wondering when I'll be allowed to work again - so I look for news and in my search I find news. I liked this one especially, though, since it's giving me some hope for at least the possibility of justice winning at least occasionally:

Well, in a blistering 79-page judgment last week, Pretoria high court judge Hans Fabricius delivered what is destined to become one of the most important rulings of SA’s Covid-19 pandemic. 

Fabricius said: "The populace must be able to trust the government to abide by the rule of law and to make rational regulations … [which] should intrude upon the rights of people and businesses either not at all, or if they do, or justifiably must, the least restrictive measures must be sought." In return, the government can expect co-operation.

And with more and more cases being filed, they can't all be ignored, postponed indefinitely or sabotaged. Especially since they are about the very foundation of civilised life in this country! 

The DA is going to court to fight for the right of soup kitchens and similar NGOs to continue feeding the hungry. I thought that was already ruled on - I've seen several posts, which looked legitimate, regarding this ... but I haven't yet found any reliable confirmation. So, I guess I was wrong.

Update: case postponed, but food may be distributed in the meantime.

Oh for craps sake! Now the chief beech is pushing to have alcohol and cigarettes banned until Level 1! For Pete's sake! And that, even though the Minister of Health is no longer backing the ban for health reasons! This is just so ... words fail me! And our Police Chief proudly announces 230 000 people have been charged for breaking lock-down regulations! What's that to be proud of? He can't go after real criminals so he's boosting his ego for going after soft targets? Argh! I just want to scream!

If it didn't control my tiny little personal world, I probably would just withdraw and hope for the bliss offered by ignorance. Only ... well, if cigarettes remain banned, it's going to get really, really ugly! People will revolt. And personally, I cannot figure out just WHY? What is supposed to be the purpose? What's her end-game?

Ai, it's really bizarre! Well, mippies came home very early - all of them, for a change! I brought them in, fed them, cuddled them, now they're all napping happy! I've had a lovely hot bath, so now it's time for bed and tomorrow morning a drive to work.

Lock-down Day 56

I'm not sleeping through the nights anymore, haven't for a while now. I wake up hot and sweaty, open the duvet and then wake up again cold. And I haven't even taken out the feather duvet, yet! Then I'm freezing and then I'm hot. I'm guessing this is the fun of Many Paws.

Mippies woke me early again, but I stayed in bed until it was light and only got up about half past six. Normally, by six, I'm already on my way to work! I think this winter I won't be driving in the dark, after all. Even if I'll be going back to work, it's going to be some time before we're back to full, normal hours - if ever! This virus is going to affect our lives for a long time to come, I think.

Funny thing, so many people have become convinced the virus is a hoax. There either is no virus or it's not really a pandemic - to just let it loose, get it over with, so we can go back to normal. And then, when they announce the opening of schools, there's a major outcry about 'sending our children to die'!?!

There's an article in the Daily Maverick that covers both sides quite aptly. But the Enders, as those who want the lock-down ended immediately, call themselves, also have a point - which is stated quite clearly in this article in News24. The DA also fuel that opinion, I'm afraid. But then again, the DA is a political party - and going with the current popular opinion promises more votes in the next election.

Speaking of which, it wouldn't surprise me if a new 'Smokers Party' didn't come off all this. Banning the sale of cigarettes is the most controversial issue of this entire state. Why? Because it was the first irrational ban imposed, which then was maintained for no rational reason and most specifically after the president announced the ban would be lifted! THAT drew attention to the absolute power with zero oversight, accountability and responsibility held by one single, and in my opinion uneducated & unqualified, individual.

I've never been overly interested in politics, because frankly, it's nothing but aggravating and depressing. But now, politicians have reached into my private home, forcing their will on my personal choices.

And the really sad reality is, even though it's been announced that Gauteng will go to Level 3 in June ... doesn't mean that will actually happen! There is 1 person in this country who decides - and she can simply decide 'Nope'. No reason, no justification, just 'No'. All the court cases questioning her authority are ... waiting ... Nothing is happening, nothing is changing. We are no longer citizens, we are mere subjects. Without rights, without a voice. Awaiting the mighty word of the Queen of Insanity.

Sorry, getting a bit miffed here ... it's really bizarre and insane! How fast we went from adult to toddler.

Mippies are driving me insane, especially Mr Mega-mewl-mip! Man can he pester me, on and on and on and on! And when he FINALLY gives me a break, one of the ladies comes mipping! THAT is where my mornings go! I sit down at the PC, start something ... then tend to mips! Back to PC, back to mips, back and forth all morning long! Always remember: there are four of them and only one of me - and they ALL want me! Pick them up, cuddle, tickle tummies, scratch their ears, on and on and on.

I also got a call from our client, asking about a small item we'd normally have in stock, but don't at the moment. He'll need to call one of the guys who are at work, to find out how much we're producing and when we'll deliver. I took that 'excuse' to call and ask about my smokes ... I think I shouldn't count on them before the weekend. And I'm running so low, I'll have to seriously ration to last until Monday! At least there's hope for a quick relief - not waiting for our government to string 2 coherent thoughts together!

And just when I thought mippies had got their fill of cuddles, Ziva starts the whole rampage again! Ha Ha Ha! I can't get a break here ...

Just watched Alan Winde give us an update - this is the scary bit: Even HE doesn't know what's in the wind (sorry about that pun), what's going to happen, what is planned or what is discussed behind the closed power-doors. Interestingly enough though, here's an article confirming what the DA has been saying all along about Western Cape numbers. For non South Africans: The Western Cape is the only province where the DA is in charge, and has been for a long time. They did manage to claim a few more municipalities last election, but no other full province, I'm afraid. Having lived in PE at the time when the DA took charge - the improvements I saw for myself were undeniable and evident. Being a minority party, they still have to prove themselves, so they still put a lot of effort into their actions.

I called my cigarette connection colleague and the price is quite steep. Double what I'd normally pay - and for a cheap brand! But at least it's a legal brand, not one of those awful illegals I read so much about! Apparently they not only taste crap, but don't seem to contain the stated nicotine, either. Plus, of course, if you're caught with any of those, they are undeniably illegal. But he'll most likely get the carton tonight, so I can go and pick it up at work tomorrow! That would be awesome! I'll just have to work out how I'll collect the milk AND the cigarettes - which is a bit of a timing problem, since that colleague only gets to work somewhat late, and the milk needs to be collected before 11. While at the same time, I somehow need to leave early and keep mippies shut inside. Fun, eh?

Then I called At! He's at work today, too - and if I go tomorrow, he'll be there tomorrow as well! Awesome! He's doing okay, especially being back at work - he's not one for sitting still too long.

Interesting news: It seems that there is more confirmation that nicotine actually reduces the risk of getting COVID-19. It does indeed sound counter-intuitive - you would expect the opposite to be true ... that would be an interesting curve-ball, wouldn't it? Especially since WHO specify the 'hand-to-mouth' action as the reason smokers are supposedly more vulnerable. Which really is such a fatuous statement ... I mean, the same is true of lipstick, lip balm, sweets and so much more - and all of which is even more likely to be shared than cigarettes!

I just baked two delicious batches! First, I made another bread dough, only - since there's clearly something wrong with the flour (today I opened a new packet of yeast, so it's definitely not the yeast), I played into that. I rolled the dough into a sausage, then sliced off pieces and laid them out on a cookie tray, like cookies. Then I put a slice of tomato on top and a slice of cheese on top of the tomato. And baked that! I've been drooling for a toasted cheese and tomato for days now ... and I've just enjoyed the first two pieces. I suppose they are mini pizzas? I'm not worried about naming it - just eating them! And then I baked another batch of cookies. This time, I carefully cut each piece of chocolate in half before pressing it into the cookie - the full pieces were a little too much. The chocolate turned out to be harder than the cookie, ha ha ha! I'm very, very happy with my results! 

Today, the Democratic Alliance held a City Hall meeting - online! First time I ever attended one. And to be quite frank, hearing how the ANC & EFF behave (well, it was a DA meeting, so I won't hear any misbehaviour of DA members, will I?) I honestly could not believe my ears! But then again, the PE mayor was 'removed' for being white. Same play, different stage.

This whole lock-down has thrown a lot of light on a lot of goings-on that shouldn't be going on. I'm kind of wondering whether our president isn't secretly glad to have so much exposed - with court cases piling up, the momentum growing ... it can't ALL just go away anymore, it's become just too much. I'm glad to see that, for starters, established charities are able to feed the hungry again. The DA has at least achieved that much!

I think that maybe watching politics is becoming my soap opera?

Anyway, mippies came in nice and early without much trouble. Ziva was a little late, but not very late. She was in time for round 2 of the treats! Everyone is now happy and snoozing - after I shared my steak with them, ha ha! Well, I've not heard anything about my cigarettes ... hopefully an sms tomorrow morning ... I'm ready to go to work anyway, and probably will. Just to see At is worth it!

Lock-down Day 55

Not much to tell. I got up, had a cup of coffee and went off to work. They're busy with production, which is good for the survival of the company. Obviously not 100% - only at the permitted 20%. We're making face masks and our big client is also asking for goods. They made a delivery yesterday.

I did get a packet of cigarettes and also ordered a carton. Hopefully still this week! The store is already quite a mess. And, of course, we seem to have minor stock discrepancies already, as well. No, I'm not breaking my head over it.

I got back home around one, let mippies out, carried the cat food inside and went for a nap. I was strangely tired - as if I had done some major labour! When I got up, I still felt tired - still do even now.

I had taken out a steak for dinner. I've decided to try something akin to mini-pizzas with the rest of the bread flour, seeing as I'm not getting a decent rise out of the bread. I've also baked a tray of cookies. This time they spread a little - a good sign! I took them out of the oven after about 10 minutes - clearly I'm no judge when it comes to knowing when they're done! Since I've never baked cookies in my life before this, it's no real surprise! I've baked cake and muffins and such before, but never cookies. Not successfully, at least. The double chocolate ones were okay, but also not as promised, remember? This lot, however, turned out the best, yet. I'd say perfect!

Mippies are inside - with the usual wait for the ladies! But Ziva and Janey came strolling in around the same time, so I gave them all a 2nd pouch! They're demanding attention, which I'm happy to give. I've sat with Ziva in the cuddle cave - and while I was, Mini first lifted the lid off the flower fountain and then pushed it back in place! Clever little mite, isn't she? Unbelievable! Mewthos got active with demands for attention ... He is just too cute to resist!

Anyway, I wasn't in the mood to fry the steak, nor hungry. So I'm simply going to bed tonight ... hopefully I'll feel somewhat better tomorrow.

Lock-down Day 54

Don't want to get out of bed, but Mewthos was extremely insistent! So much so, he chased me out of bed early - I returned the favour by chasing him out early!

I thought I'd have a little time to myself - only to find that I had LOTS and LOTS of time to myself! So much, in fact, that by half past nine I was getting ready to go out and look for them! Only Mini was home, Ziva had come for an ear-scratching but Mewthos? Not a peep! And usually the house is filled with his insistent, annoying mewls! And, as usual, just as I'm getting frantic, they show up! First Mewthos, then, just as I had shut him and Mini inside with a treat, Ziva came running and as I was leaving, Janey came mipping as well! So I shut them all in to get my milk.

For some strange reason, I found it difficult to decide the next milk order - should I get more than usual, for cheese and / or butter experiments? Such a simple decision, and I'm finding it difficult - what shall I blame? Old age? Many paws? Withdrawals? Lock-down? A bit of each, methinks! Anyway, I ordered 5 liter for Friday.

After cutting my smoking so drastically yesterday, I'm back to 1 an hour again today. I was able to wait until 9 for the first one, though. There's a lot of chatter that the ban will be lifted by Wednesday ... nothing official, but a LOT unofficial! Somewhat supported by reports that the prices of illegal cigarettes seem to be dropping - drastically!

I haven't posted the numbers lately, as they no longer have any real meaning. Government isn't testing as much as they promised, recoveries aren't re-tested, tests still take days to process ... no significant improvement in the process achieved in over 50 days! Restrictions, however, are receiving detailed, time consuming attention. If I look at the Infographic published, it doesn't look like they plan on easing the lock-down at all ... remember: only the government is now allowed to give any information!

For non-South Africans: Tshwane = Pretoria. Buffalo City = East London. Nelson Mandela Bay = Port Elizabeth. Mangaung = Bloemfontein. eThekwini = Durban. Don't ask - it's a long story.

Another phone call from work. Apparently they've been busy and need to deliver - but aren't sure how to create a delivery note, nor how to record taking stock from the store ... oh, and there's a parcel for me! So, tomorrow I'm going in to work to collect my parcel and do some paperwork ... oh, and I've been promised another packet of smokes, too!

Oh, great news! Gauteng will be moving to Level 3 in June! Said with extreme sarcasm! Why sarcasm? Because it is Bull! Absolute, utter Bull! What was supposed to be a risk-adjusted strategy has become nothing more than totalitarianism! (= a system of government that is centralized and dictatorial and requires complete subservience to the state)

Oh, we're now allowed to comment on the proposed Level 3 draft ... which apparently is where those '2000' voices denying tobacco products in Level 4 came from. So all smokers are happily commenting that tobacco must be allowed ... which, in my personal opinion, completely misses the point! Specifying which products are allowed to be sold during a State of Disaster should NOT be legislated at all! It has absolutely no place here - it simply has no application to the Disaster! I mean, take those ridiculous rules of what clothes may be sold during Level 4! How would that apply to the next Disaster? If that takes place in summer, for example? NOWHERE do I see ANYTHING clearly stating that these regulations apply ONLY to the current Disaster!

On the Coronacast the most frightening news is that the government is effectively starving its people! Well established charities may no longer issue food. I just cannot wrap my head around this ... I've been sitting here for ten minutes just shaking my head, trying to find the words ... I wish that every person involved in that decision - whether they proposed it, supported it or knew about it & just let it happen should be starved. Not they should starve, but forced to starve, preferably while looking at food which is kept just out of reach!

I'm glad to see the DA is taking government to court over this - but frankly, that should not be necessary! It just shouldn't happen!

Yet the ANC still maintain all decisions are based on science? What science supports starving people saves lives? And also the ANC admits that they did not consult scientists on lock-down levels. 

Anyway ... we may move to Level 3 sometime in June. Not end of May anymore, but beginning of June. Which could be as last as 10th of June, after all ... or even later. And Level 3 is still not defined. Nobody knows what new specifications will pop out of the magic hat! Or should I say the satanic kopdoek? (kopdoek = material wrapped around the head, African tradition; so kopdoek = NDZ).

I've made a loaf of bread today, but that flour is definitely not okay. The loaf just won't rise like it should, so it's pretty dense. Again. And this time I used less Semolina, as it is nearly finished - since I used it before and got fluffy loaves, that's definitely not the culprit. It's also not the yeast.

I also made another dough for cookies. I've since learned that adding oil was a bad idea, as it makes the dough too dense - just as too warm butter does. Resulting in hard cookies. 'Room temperature' is just soft enough to leave a fingerprint without being so soft that a finger goes right through. I used the hand held mixer to 'cream' the butter and sugar. I added chocolate chips at the end and put the lot into the fridge, wrapped in clingwrap.

When Janey came mipping around early today, I decided to keep her nearby. So I went outside with her and Mini - naughty Mini! She enjoys chasing poor Janey, who doesn't like that attention! Ziva came running very early too, and Mewthos followed soon as well, so they were all inside very early tonight! So early, in fact, that I decided to wash the dishes. How are those two related? Simple: no mip missing, lots of time before I want to bath, so I filled it with something productive.

I'm now contemplating whether I should maybe just bake the cookies tonight still - or should I do that tomorrow, when I get back? I think tomorrow.

As I was enjoying my lovely hot bath, I thought back to baths in PE! When I had to rush to wash as fast as I could, to get done before the water became too cold! Where all the heat from the water was sucked into the bath faster than you'd think possible. Or how, if I got delayed, I'd end up having to take a cold bath! As much as I miss PE - on the whole, I'm a whole lot better off here!

And on that note, I bid you good night!