Lock-down Day 96

I slept so late, I almost missed the day! Would you believe I only got up after eight? Way after eight, too! No wonder I struggle to go to sleep in the evenings, eh?

As it was so late, I bribed mippies with a sachet so that I could go off to get my milk. I had to wait for them to fill my bottles, as someone took the last liter last night - fresh, warm milk! Lovely! And I remembered to loosen the lids when I put the bottles in the fridge.

So much to do today, so what do I do? Ha Ha - nothing! That's right! Nothing. Well ... almost nothing. I cleaned the kitchen, but that's about it. Mippies brought in a mouse and ate most of it ... they left the head, the tail and a gob of blue stuff? I was afraid that might be poison! Nothing I could do but hope they spat all of it out again ... I have seen each mip since then, so they are all alright! But the next mouse they brought in, I took away from them. It was still alive - barely ... I just put it out in the garden.

I got a message from yet another friend, this time only asking for a reference on her profile. She was working at her family's business, but the riots destroyed it ... it's really bad here, and it looks like it will only get worse. A lot worse, before it gets any better again. So many business gone ... so many jobs gone ... nobody has money ... and there is just no end in sight. All the while, our government clings on to this lock-down, even going so far as to consider going back to hard lock-down! They do not seem to grasp that they are killing us!

I read stories of survivors, too - and some are a pleasure, as they have recovered completely; but so many have not! So many are suffering lasting effects which they don't even know whether they will ever go away.

And so many pleas for food, a loaf of bread, anything ... just to stop the children crying from hunger!

Coronacast was also very depressing. Apparently UIF was promised to all - yet the department was NOT listed as essential and closed. Is still largely closed. I'm one of the lucky ones to have received UIF - but many, many, too many were not so fortunate! Even though they are fully paid up, have completed all forms correctly ... And today is the last day of June, yet applications for June are not yet open! It is just depressing ... This is just so surreal, it's like we've been catapulted into some dystopian version of life!

Day 96! This madness has continued 96 days! In the beginning, when it was announced we'd go into a 21 day lock-down, the promise of 3-months UIF sounded good ... but now, UIF has announced there will be no more payments, even though many of us are still at home. Not allowed to earn a living ... or no longer able to earn a living, as in my case, as the company is no longer able to pay salaries. I'm worried about the announcement coming on Thursday ... nothing good, I fear.

I spoke to my boss about my suggestion, but he hasn't been able to give it any thought, yet - they've been working flat out, till late at night, just to keep the doors open.

Back in my own little corner of the world, I've been struggling to turn those leaves into something smokeable! Sigh. I soaked. I dried. And I think I dried too much, as the leaves are crumbling ... apparently that's bad. And then there's the cigarette part: I don't have papers, I don't have filters, I don't have a rolling machine. It's just so frustrating - I mean, I'm not trying a new hobby here, for the fun of it - I'm desperate! Fortunately, I still have a few cigarettes to tide me over, but I had better manage to make something I can smoke by tomorrow!

Only: time is a bit of an issue, as I also still haven't exactly worked on my work spreadsheets ... lazy me!

Well, I've watched a couple of videos, tried googling - but it's really not a topic that can be easily researched, I'm afraid! At least, the 'too dry' is not a permanent problem - I can just wet it again. Okay, so it'll get weaker - so what? What I usually smoke is the weakest make available! I haven't even cooked anything for myself, today ...

Mippies are home, safe and sound, all curled up into little fur-doughnuts! Ziva demanded an extended scratching session, poking her head out of the shelf next to me and mipping every time I removed my hand! Mewthos went for a mewl-walk and Mini flopped down at my feet, as usual. Only Lady Jane is a little reserved - still, I give her cuddles, too!

I created an account for myself on the new website for the leaves - on the one hand, I don't really NEED more, right now ... but what if they go back to hard lock-down? And I can't get more, when I will need? Or worse ... ach, it's just not funny living in this country at the moment. We were broke going into this lock-down ... when it was about saving lives, it made sense, but now? When more lives are lost as a result of the lock-down than the virus?

Yesterday happy dance, today depression. Such is life in lock-down. When I look no further than my own little corner, and stay in just today, life is good. But once I look outside, or think about the future ... it all goes dark.

Hopefully tomorrow will be a good day again.

Lock-down Day 95

Ooof! Where to start? It's now three in the afternoon, and I finally get to sit down to start writing today.

I got up somewhat late, had a cup of coffee and left for work. Well, first I went shopping. Shelves are empty! Lots of things are not being delivered, like spices - I don't think they are allowed to work, yet? Those shelves looked just too sad. The produce is fully stocked - but not looking too good. Quite a lot is looking rather ... wilted. No wonder, since the prices are now beyond most people's budget. Store managers clearly haven't caught on to that, yet. A lot of produce is still sold only processed (cleaned & cut). That was a good strategy when people had money and no time - but now, a lot of us have plenty of time but no money. We'd now rather buy fresh and clean it ourselves. Especially since cleaning, cutting and mix- pre-packing doubles the price.

I took a packet of mushrooms, which were on special, some celery and a small bag of potatoes. Nothing else looked appetising or affordable. When I got to the sugar shelf - it was empty! No white sugar, no brown sugar - only the organic hyper priced sugar! Or 10 kg bags! Then I saw at the back of the top shelf some 500 gram bags of brown sugar - I stood on tiptoe and took 6 bags, which was all I could reach! Lucky I got sugar! I was also lucky to get baking chocolate - I took 5 slabs! That should keep me going for a while! Then I was happy to see the bread machine instant yeast! So I grabbed several packets.

I was very happy to see a special on coffee! A real special, not the 'sign up that it's on special, but the price is the normal price' gimmick. I grabbed 5 of those :) I was equally happy to see butter on special, too! So I stocked up, as well as on the baking margarine, which was also on special! I was able to get almost everything on my list! Even some cat food tins!

I also got some groceries for At. Meat is expensive, so I took some stewing meat - I want to try and see if I can feed it to my mippies as a treat! If I can change them over to real meat instead of sachets, that'll have a big impact on my finances.

Even the dairy shelves have gaping holes ... no products ...

Then I went to work. First thing, I called the courier. Lady answered and gave me just the standard reply 'you'll get it when you get it - it's out for delivery today'. Nothing I can do, so ...

I got busy with work, there isn't much to do, though. I arranged all that I could, to make sure I don't need to come in tomorrow ... enjoyed lunch time with At again! I learned that, when I ask a colleague to get my cigarettes, he doesn't add a fee - so I saved a bit on the packets I bought today. Enough to last me until Thursday - by which time, my delivery will hopefully be here!

I also told him about the curtain-debacle here at home, and how my landlord totally changed his tune Monday evening. He agrees that Leon probably DID try to take legal action against me, trying to force his will on me in my home - and possibly learned that, in fact, I could take him to court for breach of contract when he turned my water off! Maybe he was even told that he should count his lucky stars to have a tenant who is STILL paying full rent, at this time of crisis!

I called the courier again, this time a guy answered and he gave me some relevant feedback: firstly, he couldn't understand why it wasn't delivered on Friday - it went out for delivery, but came back ... no reason given. And they worked till late into the night on Friday, so there was someone on site. Then he told me it's definitely on the truck for delivery today, I should receive a call when he's nearby. That's good to hear!

I arranged to come in again on Thursday, unless I'm told I'm not needed.

And then: My delivery arrived! I did a happy dance! Happy, happy, happy! Finally my smoking woes are over! Yippee, hee hee, happy, happy!

It was going on three, when I finally got home and let my mippies out - who nearly toppled me in their rush to get out!

First, I unloaded the car, then I packed everything that needed to go into the fridge. Then I enjoyed a smoke! Ha Ha! I had given At a couple as well! Then I packed the rest of the groceries away - I'll have quite a bit of re-packing to do with the meat.

Then I took out my tobacco leaves! Arranged them nicely and took a photo! I received a large bag, plus a 'starter bag' (small bag with crumb-like tobacco - not whole leaves), and a sticker. I'm so happy that my smoking straits are no longer dire! I feel so uplifted! Motivated to spring into action and do lots of stuff, now! Ha Ha Ha! All I've done, so far, is write all this! Oh, and smoked a few cigarettes, ha ha!

Well, it's now almost eight. I've updated the game spreadsheet, done the basics for my cities, warmed up and at the last of my pizza ... and then called in my mippies. Janey was late and Ziva even later! Janey came in, ate and wanted to go out again. Sorry, my darling! Yes, you're home fairly early, but if I let you out now, you won't come back till very late - and I'll be worried sick by then!

I was trying to plan all that needs doing now, making cigarettes, baking cookies, re-packing the groceries, laundry, making pet food ... when, just to spoil my mood, I got a message from HR! Everybody to show up Thursday at ten for a meeting. Sigh, that's NEVER good!

I was leaving the tobacco for tomorrow, but then I thought: why not let some dry overnight? So I put a couple of leaves into lukewarm water and let it soak for about 2 hours. Then I patted them with a towel and placed them on the laundry stand to dry overnight. I still don't know what paper to use or how I'll make myself filters. Well, that's tomorrow's problem ... 

I must say, it has been absolutely awesome to be able to have a smoke anytime I like, without having to count, stop, calculate, ration ... very different from last night!

I just decided to put the nicotine water into the oven. It's in a bowl - and I don't want my mippies to drink from it. Not that they are likely to, as they don't like the smell, and it was atop the kitchen counter next to the stove ... but better safe than sorry! I don't think I can throw that down the drain - I think it would kill the bacteria. And I don't want to go outside after dark, to throw it out, either.

Mewthos and Ziva got a bit restless and decided to play catch with each other! Zooming around like pinballs! Earlier, Mewthos went into the cat carrier to sulk, when I didn't pay him enough attention - Mini went and sat in front of it, puzzled about Mewthos behind bars! Too funny! She pawed at the bars while he sniffed her paws! They've all settled on the bed now ... and I'm ready to join them.

Lock-down Day 94

Mewthos and Ziva decided that I should get up at sunrise, so they can go out! I had about 2 hours quiet this morning!

I sorted out the laptop, so I can take it to work now. A colleague reckons it can be fixed and set up - I'm not using it otherwise, so ... 

I've done a bit of game play and such, had a muffin for breakfast - no need to cook today, although I do want to bake bread for At. By noon I decided to take a shower - and in the middle of that, the power went out! Awful! Just suddenly no more water! Well, I was almost done - but hadn't rinsed my hair, yet. I got out, got dressed, and when the power was back, I rinsed my hair in the basin.

In the meantime, Janey took me for a walk! She mipped insistently that I must come, outside the gate ... and she led me to the fence near the outer gate ... I don't know why, though. Yes, I heard Ziva fighting with another cat - at first I thought it was Mini, but she came when I called. And Ziva had been on the bed when Janey led me outside, so I don't think that was the cause. Now Janey is sleeping on the bed ... 

Mini and Janey were unhappy that their fountain didn't fountain when we got back. Mini is very wary of lifting the lid, ever since I gave her a smack one morning. Yes, I'm sorry I hit her, but I'm not sorry she no longer lifts the lid! I was worried that one day she'll do what when I'm not home - and water and electrical cables don't go well together!

And then the power went off again! Well, at least then rent is already paid, as is my credit card. Not enough left for another month, though ... I'm hoping for another UIF payment to cover the rent. I also need groceries.

I've looked online, and Faithful to Nature are out of stock on most stuff, again. Well, I don't need any flour for now, so I just looked for the things I do need ... I was thinking of going to a different store for a change, hoping to get some items Ninapark is usually low on - but I've decided to postpone that until I have more financial security. 

I keep checking on the tracking number for the leaves I've ordered, but there's no change. It still just says 'dispatched 25 June'. I am so sick and tired of 'counting what's left' every single time I feel like a smoke. Calculating in my head how long what's left will last. Taking no more than 2, 3 puffs at most. And the crap is too strong for my liking. For Pete's sake, this must come to an end!

I mean, imagine coffee had suddenly become illegal? No, it's not so far fetched, when you remember that coffee also affects the heart - and a heart condition is a comorbidity. Just like lungs. And then you go to Level 3, by which time we've learned that it's not a respiratory disease after all - but by now some Minister is on a personal mission to stamp out smoking. Imagine if she was on a personal mission to stamp out heart conditions? And just continued to uphold the ban on the sale of coffee?

I seriously wonder about some of those non-smokers out there, who think that this ban is wonderful? Oh, not all non-smokers are like that, of course! But who do the simpletons think is going to end up paying for this ban? All that tax revenue lost? At a time when the country was already bankrupt and is not just sinking deeper and deeper into debt - like quicksand?

If you don't understand how I feel about cigarettes ... try to substitute coffee. Or tea. Or sugar. Or anything YOU enjoy, to sit down and relax. Then imagine having to take 2 or three sips off each cup, then re-heat it next time you want another sip or two. All the while watching your stock reduce ... down to the last half dozen cups ... knowing that you CAN get more, but only crap tasting coffee - but it does give you that kick or relaxation you want from it. And you'll pay double the price of a good cup for each crappy cup. And while you're not able to earn your salary, the person who withholds your legal right to coffee is not only earning an enormous salary, but her son is making a killing selling you his crappy coffee - which you would normally never buy!

Okay, rant over. It really is unbelievable that we are in this situation ... insufferable!

Well, with the power outages, I didn't bake any bread - it takes 3 hours, and the first hour and a half in the machine. It was a little too late to start, when the power finally came back. I did, however, bake a batch of cookies. I need electricity for that, too - but only to be able to wash my hands afterwards!

Lady Jane came is at a fairly reasonable time, just after five, so I stood by the door and Mewthos and Mini came running - so I gave them a treat and shut them in! Then, when I went to call Ziva, I only had to call once and she came running home at top speed! Happy, happy! All my mippies home, safe and sound and early! Oh, there was some attention seeking - I gave attention ... now they're sleeping on the bed, again.

Last night they hogged the foot end of the bed so badly, I ended up curled up at the top end! They spread out sometimes, and then there's no gap for me to stick my feet in between them, and I end up cramped at one end. Mini is no problem, I just pick her up and shove her under the duvet with me - she stays there enjoying the attention for a while, then goes off to find herself a place again. The others are a little more difficult - they tend to stalk off if I pick them up for a cuddle (and to make room for me). Then they come back, restless, mipping and meandering around disturbing the sleepers!

Poor mippies, don't yet know that I'm going out tomorrow and they'll be shut indoors again ... hope it won't be for too long, though!

Lock-down Day 93

I see that I got my numbers wrong yesterday - fixing that now.

Right, that's better.

I'm not really motivated today. I cleaned the kitchen, swept the floors but didn't wash them. They need a wash, too! I prepared another batch of cookie dough, but didn't bake another batch today. Washed up again - kitchen is clean, just in case I feel like making myself custard later on.

I goofed around most of the day, mostly online. Chatting, playing, scrolling, reading - no news, though. News are just too depressing!

I had some pizza - re-baked, but I just put too much liquid on it, it's quite soggy. Still delicious, though!

Tomorrow, I had better get busy, though. Work stuff - I haven't done anything about that, yet; finances, like paying the rent; and a shopping list for Monday morning.

It's been one of those days ...

Lock-down Day 92

Guess who's the favourite cat walk in this house? Yep! Cats walk over me all the time, especially when I'm on my side, giving a lovely view from atop my hips!

I woke up very early, stayed in bed until it was light - I'm so happy we've passed the Solstice, so it gets light earlier every day, again! I always make the mistake of thinking that also means it's going to get warmer - but then the worst of winter hits and I'm miserable!

Mewthos rewarded me, for letting him out early, by bringing in a dead pigeon! Feathers, feathers absolutely everywhere! Well, I rewarded him, in turn, by shutting him and Mini in with their feather bed - and went off to get milk.

When I got back, I got busy online, scrolling, playing - that kind of stuff, you know? I've since cleaned up what was left of the bird AND the feathers! Have you ever tried cleaning up feathers? Yeah - NOT FUN!

As I went for a smoke, I saw my landlord hanging up washing, so I asked about the water. Oh, yeah, that's been fixed since Wednesday! Well, THANK YOU for letting me know! Grr. Then he started what he thinks is a 'friendly conversation', but since any opinion or viewpoint different from his results in being shouted down ... I just stand there, politely, quietly, waiting to get away. He did mention that the fire went through 5 plots! Yikes! I guess that makes me very, very lucky to stay where I do stay - with a plumber who has everything in place to fight such a raging fire, preventing it from reaching the house! He also mentioned that his worker had left - oh, and the people next door told him that I'm still in touch with him. I told him that I'm not. It's the truth. Oh, and the guy who moved in next door at the start of the lock down? Has moved out again. Sold his chickens, sold his cattle - fortunately before the fire ... and left.

Back inside, first thing I did was shower! Ah! How lovely! Finally warm again! I was quite cold today. I would have showered today, anyway - but I'm glad I could do so with impunity!

And then I got busy in the kitchen. I made double bread dough, half for pizza, half for rolls. I baked a batch of muffins and also a batch of cookies. I considered making more cookie dough, but opted for a batch of muffins, instead.

Coronacast was about farm attacks. I find this a difficult subject to watch / read about - it's simply too emotional. What most people don't seem to realise is, that these are NOT robberies, they are pure attacks. On farmers, farm workers, women, children of all colours - just pure violence. Often, nothing is taken! One woman was on the show, a victim of such a brutal attack, 5 years ago. To date, the perpetrator is carrying on with his life with impunity ... there is overwhelming evidence against him, but he's just not brought to justice. Court dates are postponed, in one instance because the defendant claimed to have a headache! And the violence has escalated during this lock-down, because the Minister of Police has shut down ALL protection for farmers, their workers and their families! I just have no words ...

And then, just to make things even worse, news just in: FITA have lost the court case! Okay, I have to say that the argument that because their product is addictive, it should be an essential item did not sit well with me, either - but that was NOT the only argument! If it had been, why did it take 16 days to come to a decision? And the other case has been postponed until August - no reason given! Seriously, something is not right here.

Even if you don't smoke: Government is so broke, they've borrowed money - which they will now use to pay their own salaries, rather than for any service ... yet, they dismiss the substantial income from the sale of tobacco products?

The leaf supplier just posted that everything is now en route - they can't handle any queries, so everybody must just wait until next Friday. If we haven't received our order by then, they'll gladly read their mail again. Everyone on that site, who have received their leaves already are being almost abusive towards anyone trying to make a polite enquiry! Telling them to 'stop being rude' and how we're being done a favour! Uhm ... if it is a favour, why did I pay? Also: while we, the customer, sit without income, the farmer supplying us is making a killing! Okay, so prices are not inflated - but at least they are selling a product which currently has no other market! Except for manufacturers exporting cigarettes!

Anyway, this means that I'm going to have to buy cigarettes again, on Monday. And with the latest news, prices are going to sky-rocket again! Just what da fook am I going to do? This really is insufferable! I'll worry about that on Monday. I can still hope that either we go to Level 2 on Wednesday (1st July), as some people think or that my leaves arrive in the meantime! My friend, who referred me to them, received her leaves today - she's happy!

The weather has turned like my mood: overcast and dark. Looks like it might rain tonight.

Happy dance! I just received a tracking number for my leaves! Dispatched 25th! Oh, please, please arrive no later than Monday? Pretty please? That would take a MAJOR load off my shoulders! Yeah, I know, it's not an essential item, but a bad habit. So what? As soon as my leaves arrive, I'll place the next order. I should get about 4 cartons worth from that first delivery - if I don't mess anything up, that is.

Ziva and Janey came in around half past four for a snack ... that's VERY early, but I shut them in, anyway! I gave them a treat and now I'm running around giving scratchies and attention, so they don't feel this is a punishment.

Ah, and here are Mewthos and the Mini! All mippies safe and sound and inside by five! Ha Ha Ha! Peace of mind for me, tonight!

I did have quite a bit of trouble with the internet today. Quite frustrating, especially when it happened in the middle of the Coronacast. This time, it's my modem - it just shows as disconnected all of a sudden! I've done what I can - I can only hope it doesn't quit on me.

Oh my gosh, now the appeal, where a judge had already ruled lock-down regulations unconstitutional was successful and the High Court ruling overturned. This means that one single person has now been declared the ultimate dictator who can not be touched!

"Until that judgment is overturned, Dlamini-Zuma and her cabinet colleagues don't have to be fair when making rules, and need not make the best possible decision either.

If the outcome isn't perfect, that's okay too."

That is some scary shit!

As long as they do NOT get to postpone the next elections! THAT would be the end!

Enough of that for now.

Right, back to my little corner. Now that my macrame belt is finished, I've been wondering what I should do during each Coronacast now, and then it hit me: roll cigarettes! Ha Ha! I can cut and roll my cigarettes for 2 x an hour a week! I think, when they arrive, the first lot I'm going to just cut and roll - after the crap I've been smoking, the strength doesn't scare me! Just enough to keep me going while I process a batch! And if I get lots of time to practice, I won't even need to buy a roller or anything IF those are ever legally obtainable again! I know, that somewhere in one of those boxes in the lounge, I've still got papers and filters ... but I have no clue where to even start looking! Who would ever have thought democratic South Africa would ever be in such a bizzare dictatorship?

With all mippies inside so early, I had a lot of running, playing catch, tickling tummies, scratching ears, etc to keep the peace! Now they are all curled up together, doing their impression of 'too cute to even think of naughty'! My little love bugs! They can run around outside again tomorrow!

I took the pizza out of the oven a little too early - it's not quite done, yet. But it was dripping too much - and there is no drip-tray. I've now put some foil under and around it, so I'll bake it some more tomorrow. Today, I had two rolls dipped into the juices from the pizza - soaked up a lot of it. I'm also planning to make more cookie dough tomorrow - tonight, I'm just happy to have cookies & muffins as a treat!

Lovely, it's almost eight and I'm not stressing over a missing cat! Just had a cup of chamomile ... feel ready to fall asleep ... 

Lock-down Day 91

I slept quite well and got up reasonably early. It's not ice cold lately, quite bearable - as long as you're wearing enough clothes! I hope I'm not jinxing it now!

Mippies went out and stayed out for a long time - which gave me time to go through my Facebook timeline and thank every one who had wished me a Happy birthday, yesterday. Over 100 birthday wishes! Then I tended to my game cities - and by the time I was done it was noon!

Mippies showed up in turns for cuddles, Mewthos, Ziva, Mini - not Lady Jane, though. She seems less affectionate than she used to be - probably simply more independent. When she gets her 'cuddle attack' it is always intense! She soooo misses being able to walk from my shoulder onto my arm and back! She's just too big for that now - yet she still tries! And I get her bum in my face! Ha Ha, and then she can't turn around like she used to, because there's just no room and we end up in a heap. She then jumps down and mips to be picked up again, right away!

Well, I cleaned up the kitchen, cooked myself some rice and veggies - but I didn't bake any cookies. Which I regret now. I'd really like a cookie now! Ah, well.

Lady Jane came in for a snack and today I took advantage and shut her in! Then I went to call the rest, Mini came running, so I shut her in, too. I gave both of them something to munch and I went out again to call ... Mewthos didn't let me wait very long, so I gave the lot a 2nd sachet. Ziva came in late again - but not very late, though too late for HER treat.

I had just fried myself a steak, though, so Ziva no longer comes for HER treat, but for my dinner! Ha Ha! They must have all had a very good run around today, because I've had no 'playing catch' or mipping or anything - they're all curled up on the bed, sleeping! Nice!

Lock-down Day 90

I still find it incredible that we've not only been in lock-down for 90 days already - but that there is also still no end in sight! Every day when I type the heading, I just shake my head in disbelief! Seriously, WTF? How could this happen?

I got up just after seven, got dressed and left for work. I had a chat with my boss, where I discussed my suggestion, he'll think it over and will get back to me. His first concern was, that he wonders how I can survive on such a small income - I had only discussed part 1 of my plan with him, so I laid out part 2, which generates income not only from his business, but if he can refer me, there would be income from outside. And THAT is how I can build up to my full salary, without the burden being on one company.

Oh, I haven't mentioned the details here, have I? Well, to put it simply, I would charge per Delivery Note, for example. A fixed rate. BUT: If I must come in to spend hours fixing delivery notes created by others - THAT would be 'clocked hours'. See how that would work to everyone's advantage? I'd start with Delivery Notes, and add more and more options ... they would loose no control, no data, nothing - I'm still employed and at their service, anytime I'm needed. That's part 1. And part 2 would be 'streamlining exercises' or efficiency improvement projects, where I would charge a % of the actual cost saving achieved for a year. Not all in one go, but for each product I would only get payment when that product is being manufactured, i.e. when they actually save the money. And for this Part 2, he could pimp me out to other business' as well - he has loads of contacts and connections.

It will take time to build that up, which is why I have no choice but to cash in an annuity. It's not much, but it will get me back in the black, and - as long as I am very careful - it should keep me alive until my income meets my expenses again.

I was also able to procured 2 more packets of cigarettes. Cheaper than the last time. But it's a different brand, again. There's talk that cigarettes might be legal again on Monday - but it's just talk. Nobody knows for sure. Really, this is insufferable! And just so surreal!

Let me not dwell on that again. Well, after our talk, I set to work. Processed delivery notes, cleared queries, processed new orders, prepared raw material requirements, and updated the production plan for the escomatics. My boss also asked me to find a place that would buy the off-cut plastic from the face shields we're making. All in all it took me almost the whole day! It was nearing four when I was finally done and ready to leave. Last thing I did, was to copy my files onto the portable hard drive I had brought with me - so that I could start preparing to work from home.

Mippies were impatient to get out. They happily ran off into all directions! First thing I did was to cook myself something to eat - I hadn't expected to take all day, so I hadn't even taken any breakfast along! I was starving when I got home! I cooked some spaghetti and mixed them with tuna and sour cream. I feel much better now, thank you!

Lady Jane came in for a snack and - silly me - I let her go out again. Now it's twenty past six, pitch dark outside and I'm still waiting for Janey and Ziva! I have a feeling it's going to be a long wait tonight! They've both been cooped up inside all day and they no longer like it. They bore it as our 'new life' when I started working - but now, they prefer the daily freedom. And have got used to that. Sigh.

Tomorrow I'll have to first clean the kitchen, I meant to wash up after work today, but it just got too late. I haven't even logged in my game, yet. I can't decide whether I should log in there or go through my Facebook now - my timeline is covered in birthday wishes :) I also got a message from Rose! I haven't even had a chance to reply, yet. Game, I think.

Quarter to seven, Janey has come home! Half past seven, Ziva has come home ... snacked a little, then tried the front door again! Ai, ai, ai! Well, she can have lots of time running around tomorrow! I'm going nowhere!

Eight o'clock, and I've done the basic maintenance in the game. Now I want to have a last few puffs of smoke ... but Ziva, who has been nagging and nagging for attention ever since she's come in, is now gone! I bet she's in the lounge! Nope, I just saw her come out from under the basin! I took that opportunity to go for a quick smoke.

Lock-down Day 89

I struggled to fall asleep, but that's simply because I've been staying in bed late in the mornings. I tried staying in bed till eight this morning, but failed. Mewthos hung around for, I know not what ... eventually he went off ... for such a long time that I eventually decided to take a chance and get my milk ... and that is when he came running! Ha Ha Ha!

Ziva and Mini joined Mewthos inside while I went to get milk. After that, I kind of just hung around ... my body wasn't very active, but my mind was working overtime. Planning, details, how, etc. Work stuff mostly.

I baked 2 loaves of bread, one for me, one for At. I baked the last batch of cookie dough - a meager 10 cookies! But I also made more dough, so tomorrow I can bake more. I fried myself a slice of meat - which I shared generously with Mewthos.

I watched Coronacast - which was really frightening! Our government is spending more money than it's earning - and has no plan how that's going to work. Oh, they want to take control of the Reserve Bank, so they can print more money ... I'm just shaking my head in disbelief! We'll have to wait and see the budget announcement ... I'm not sure I have the stomach for that.

Cigarette sales are still banned ... and I'm running out of smokes. I can't afford another illegal carton, especially at the current exorbitant prices - although I heard that prices are dropping again? I'll ask my colleague tomorrow. Maybe another packet ... hopefully my leaves will arrive soon! I still don't know how I'll turn them into cigarettes - I'm useless at rolling them! I used to have a little rolling machine, and even with that they weren't always good. That's not going to stop me, though - I'll learn!

The friend who referred me to this option just messaged me, she hasn't received her order, yet, and has had no response to inquiries, either - she's worried it may be a scam. I've been reading the posts, lots of people have received their orders - but lots are also waiting. I think this business opportunity was simply 'thrown together' too fast - and they've been overwhelmed with orders even faster. Now they're trying to organise - and I guess that means orders aren't processed on a first-come-first-served basis. I have a feeling they are completely snowed under and just can't cope ... never mind with just the orders, but now they are equally inundated with inquiries, I guess. If the ban is really lifted on 1st July, it's possible that will be sooner than my receiving my leaves - but I'm okay with that. Well, not really, as I'm on my very last packet of cigarettes ... but ... well ... I'll just wait and see!

Ziva is driving me up the wall! First, she doesn't come home when I call. I wait and wait, I call and call ... nothing. I'm getting worried. Mewthos is driving me nuts, with Mini as an echo ... no Ziva. Eventually, as I'm at the door, I hear something moving around outside ... clearly animal, not human, so I unlock the door, take my LED lamp and look. Around the corner, Ziva is trying to get at something hiding behind my compost bags. Not even acknowledging my existence! I pick her up and carry her - all four legs akimbo, claws out (though not scratching me) inside! Not happy! Okay, dash to the food bowl, I give some food ... and then she goes nuts! Mip mip mip mip, running around like a crazy thing, sitting by the door mip mip mip - insisting I must let her out. On and on and on and on ... I scratch her ears, I scratch her back, I try everything. She just wants out! NO! Yes ... NO! This went on for about an hour! And that's AFTER I've already had to wait for her an hour and a half! Finally, finally she gave up! She's now curled up on the bed. Sulking. Her eyes are open, she's just curled up, not napping like the others. Looks like she's going to go off again soon ... 

Just saw an announcement that VW have turned part of their factory into a field hospital! Yup, that's the factory in Uitenhage, PE, where I worked. I wonder if they'll add robot-nurses? It looks like they'd fit in perfectly ... factory floor, factory work station partitions ... beds in a row from end to end.

That little mutton chop was not enough for me, I was still hungry. So I heated a can of soup, had a couple of slices of fresh bread and finished with the last muffin. I'll have to think of something better for tomorrow.

Ah ... tomorrow. I considered going shopping before going to work ... and then re-considered. Better first write a 'only this and nothing else' shopping list.

Looks like Ziva has finally settled down! She's now also got her eyes closed. They look like furry worms when they're each curled up like that. Or like greyish shrimps! Plus one black shrimp! Or kitty doughnuts! Ha Ha!

I'd love to go for a last smoke before I go to bed ... sigh ... 

Lock-down Day 88

I slept quite well and not too late. I'm still keeping the curtains closed, so I have at least the feeling of privacy in my bedroom and my bathroom.

I was feeling energetic today, so I started re-arranging and packing up the lounge. I finished the room divider - well, only LPs and 7" singles were there, and some lever arch files in the bottom. I moved all the boxes and cleaned the floor, then re-arranged them to clear the space in front of the bookshelf. So I can start packing that next.

I had also put my sheets and towels into the machine and washed them, as I thought my landlord was out - it was unusually quiet next door. I'm now guessing that was merely hang-over, as he is now busy burning the fields outside! First I knew of that was when I smelled and heard the fire! I looked outside and there's a wall of fire just behind their garden! Mewthos and Janey are inside, but I don't know where Ziva and Mini are!

Really, he should have told me he was planning to burn the fields - I could have kept my mippies inside! Safe and sound! And I could have closed the only window open on that side - now, I've got ash all over the bed. Good thing I didn't hang my sheets and towels outside, eh? I hung them inside, because I don't like going outside anymore.

He's now burning the field on the west as well. I guess, since he's lost his worker, he can no longer cut the grass ... burning is not a good solution, though, as there is quite some wildlife there, like tortoises, etc. Which is strange, as he loves all nature?

I'm not overly worried about Ziva and Mini, they both lived 'wild' before they chose me - but neither has any experience with fire!

I was feeling a bit like a crook, secretly packing up my lounge - but when he started that fire without warning, I feel mine is definitely the lesser ... well, not crime, more like activity? Anyway, now all that is left in the lounge is books. Although, I've run out of packing tape. I'm going to have to make a plan to go to Makro, where I can buy a packet of rolls cheap. Marko is quite far out of my way, though ... maybe I should go to Wonderpark and try at Game? Definitely the lesser evil. 

My bedroom was so full of smoke, both Mewthos and Janey fled - but outside is even worse, so they've come back! My eyes were watering, too! I could also feel the heat here!

I've also been thinking a lot about finance. Naturally. Knowing that I won't have a full salary to rely on, for who-knows-how-long means that I have to re-write my budget, cutting even more than I did in December. My three biggest expenses are rent, cat food and cigarettes; with the latter two adding up to as much as my rent. Now, if I can get the leaves, that could reduce the cost of smoking radically, down to about 10%! I may have to invest in a rolling machine again, when that's legal again, but that's not big money. And since I have more time on my hands now ... I should be able to keep that up. And with the cat food, it's the wet treats that cost the most. I've already reduced that, and if I can start cooking my own, I could maybe eliminate that cost altogether? It's a work in progress.

So, that leaves rent. The biggest problem with rent is, that it's become standard practice to include a clause in every contract, whereby the rent increases by 10% every year. Which is more than double the increase in property value. I just found an article that claims, South Africans spend less than 20% of their monthly income on rent ... sheez! What fantasy world is that? I spend a third of my salary on rent! Am I doing something wrong? Nope, they base their numbers on 'job adverts' (which are mostly professional, high income jobs) compared to the rental adverts. So, they are comparing the income of people who primarily purchase their home to rents. A bit flawed.

Still haven't seen Ziva nor Mini. But that's not really unusual. Still, until I have seen each of them, my mind won't be at ease. It's only half past three, so they'll be out, gallivanting. They normally show up after four, sometimes only after I call them. Well, Mini likes to hang out under my feet a lot ... Still, I wish they'd pop in for a snack.

It's now twenty to five and both Janey and Mewthos are still huddled together on the bed - which is unusual. And I have still not seen either Mini nor Ziva! I keep telling myself, they've never come from where the fire was, so they were probably nowhere near - but what if they ran away from the smoke & heat? Too far away? Sigh ... I can only hope they'll show up soon ...

There is still no news on the ban of the sale of cigarettes. No decision from the judges. And the other case is being dragged by the courts - they are trying to appoint judges, but they haven't even set a date, yet. FITA's case was heard on 10th June, BATSA is still trying to take their case to court. There have been several posts that store owners were informed that cigarettes could be sold again from 1st July ... I'm guessing that's when Level 2 might come into effect? We've had Level 4 from 1st May, Level 3 from 1st June ... so we can only hope for Level 2 from 1st July. It's been called the longest and most brutal lockdown in the world.

Phew! Twenty past five and Ziva has just popped in for a snack! I followed her to the front door and saw Mini coming out of the store - having set the alarm off in the store! Phew! Now I'm at peace again!

WOW! And now I am gob smacked! Utterly stunned! Practically speechless! I was in the kitchen, frying my steak when my landlord knocked on my kitchen window - softly, almost politely. I opened the window a crack (though we can actually talk through the closed window, as the fanlights are open) and he actually said 'Thank you for the curtain arrangement in your bathroom on Sunday!' I have NEVER heard him say Thank you for anything, ever before! I didn't think he knew the word! (In Afrikaans it is one word: 'Dankie'). And he spoke in a reasonable voice, not raised, not shouting! I was just gob smacked!

We had a short discussion, where I told him that all I ask is that he talks to me in a decent manner, no shouting. I have a lot of stress now, and I just can not handle being shouted at. As expected, he denied shouting, even blamed ME as being the one with the attitude, insisting that he had asked me nicely, not shouted instructions ... I just kept quiet. No use arguing. Surprisingly, he still didn't raise his voice!

He then told me that the fire had destroyed several pipes, and the earliest he could replace them was Thursday - if I could please, please not use a lot of water until then. Really, he asked VERY NICELY!

And now I feel like a heel for thinking he started the fire deliberately! I stopped to think that it's unlike him to endanger wildlife - but didn't think any further. Yes, I know, I could edit that out, since I haven't published yet - but this blog is about reality. And I'm not always a nice person, either.

It seems that somehow some bit of reality found its way into his thinking. Maybe he recounted our encounter to his visitors and someone mentioned how I'm a paying tenant - either how he should be glad for the income or something along those lines. Or maybe someone mentioned that it's illegal to enter my home without my consent. Either way, it means the pressure is off! I no longer have to get out fast. It was the threat of feeling threatened inside my home that pushed me over the edge ... I'm glad I didn't act on what now seems to be an overreaction. I considered calling my boss - now I'm glad I decided to wait until Wednesday.

With today's episode, I'm considering giving them at least 2 months notice ... when the time comes.

But this is really a very big relief! Because moving at this time is really, really only for emergencies! I would feel much better, if I could first secure an income ... know how much I can count on every month. And see how much I use every month, how low I can go on my expenses.

Right now I'm sighing with relief! I can now first focus on earning an income, without anything else going on. Well, not exactly. There's still lots going on, but nothing additional. I don't have to pack, there's no deadline, I can do 'house stuff' when I feel like it and have time for it. Still no bath, but at least I can now shower without fear of having my water cut off mid shower! Well, after Thursday, of course.

And I no longer fear receiving some legal action in the mail! Yeah - I've spent two days living in dread here! Fearing the worst ... will he barge into my home? Will I receive some ugly mail? Will he shout yet another irrational restriction at me? What's coming next, and when? It's really awful! Because I feel so helpless and vulnerable. Not that he would ever lift a hand to me - THAT would never even cross his mind, I'm sure. Like I said, he's not really a bad person, just a very, very thoughtless one. There are many forms of abuse - violence is just the only 'socially acknowledged' as abusive.

Maybe he just did some thinking while sober.

Anyway, just after I spotted Mini coming out of the store, I saw Janey on her way away somewhere, so I called her. Amazingly, she came running to me, with Mini in tow! I decided to get them inside now, safe and sound - even though it was very, very early! They all came without any trouble, I gave them two sachets, then a bit from one of the tins and they all settled down almost immediately and they're all quietly curled up on the bed!

I was feeling ice cold again when I feared for Ziva and Mini! Now, I'm happy to say, I feel relatively warm!

Tonight, I feel sure that I'll sleep well!

Lock-down Day 87

Predictably, I didn't sleep well. Mewthos was also restless throughout the night, which didn't help, either. I'm beginning to wonder whether he isn't simply too sensitive ... that he maybe reacts to the tension more than the others? That could also explain some of his piddle behaviour? Ah, well ... Mini spent half the night in my arms, and when she left, Mewthos came to curl up with me under the duvet. Twice. As I said: he was restless all night. I also had some really unpleasant dreams, about being forced to take in lodgers and how I'm held responsible, but have no authority ... it was weird.

There was no invasion into my home ... yet. See, the thing is, in the mornings he's sober. It's only when he's had a couple of drinks that they both get loud and look for an outlet. Their visitors are here, so I took the chance to take a shower - I hoped he'd be too busy to turn off my water mid-shower. He was. I feel better after a shower, too. All the curtains facing his garden are closed ...

I've noticed in the past, too, when they start getting too argumentative with their guests (they've never had visitors, only family comes now and again), they leave ... and then their attention turns on me.

Yes, this has been going on for a long time, I've never written much about it, as I mostly just shrugged it off. But under the current conditions, with the stress already in my life - and their continued escalation ... they're not really BAD people, but they are terribly, terribly twisted. They have zero interaction outside, so it's all going round and round in circles between two like-minded people ... working each other up ... twisting themselves up in knots. They MEAN well, but they have long ago lost touch with reality.

When I first moved in, they told me about a property they had bought in Limpopo. They had a tenant there who had stopped paying rent a long time ago, and they started eviction proceedings ... as a result, the entire property is now dismantled, and they are loosing money every month, having to pay with no income - and watching it deteriorate into total ruin. Literally! And there is absolutely nothing they can do ... last I heard, the court case was still unresolved. At the time, I expected as a result, they would appreciate a paying tenant. I mean, that's the basic lesson anyone would expect to take from that, right? Apparently not. Which is why I see no other solution than my moving out - as they are evidently utterly incapable of learning anything. They are too twisted up in themselves.

I, however, learned from that experience that I don't have to fear eviction. They have no grounds. I have proof of payment for every month's rent I paid. I may not be living the way they approve of, but that's ALL they have against me. On my side is the fact that they turn off my water, without reason! Plus, they are not fulfilling their duty with regards to waste removal. My biggest fear, though, is that they may decide to come into my home on Wednesday, while I'm at work, and take some action ... like move my boxes into their store! Or take the empty boxes out and burn them! That would really be a problem, now! But he doesn't have his worker to do the work for him anymore ... and I don't think he wants to do it by himself!

Enough of that. Though, I'm beginning to get a complex about myself. I mean, what is it about me that invites such crappy treatment? Or am I just oversensitive, and such treatment is normal - I shouldn't let it bother me?

Well, I'm making white bread rolls now, and I've washed the dishes. It's now almost three in the afternoon, and I can hear the voices getting raised again. One voice. Visitors will be leaving soon ... 

I've started packing again. Packed my LPs and some of my 7" singles. A few odds and ends. Just starting to clear the lounge for now. I'll be running into trouble with those oversized items again, that don't fit into any of the boxes I have left. Grin, now I wish I hadn't given so many of them away - but, well, I can always get more at bottle stores.

I did give some thought to trying to sort out my stuff, but quite frankly, I'm too cramped here to really do anything. That was quite evident as soon as I saw the place ... I guess I'm some sad kind of optimist, trying for such a long time to make this work for me. I would have to seriously, seriously downsize to be comfortable here - and I've tried. Only, it simply is too far against my nature, ha ha!

Packed another box of kitchen stuff I haven't used here ... Mini was watching totally puzzled, she's never seen me pack boxes before! Poor darling doesn't know what lies ahead ... but, we'll get through it. Together, my darlings!

Some good news: I got mail that my leaves are being packed for delivery! Okay, so it could still take a week or more, but: It's in progress!

Mippies came home alright, even Janey didn't make me wait for too long. I've filled my water bottles, so I'm all set. I'm not nearly as cold tonight as I was yesterday - but then, I've had a shower and I'm wearing warmer clothes today. My problem will be falling asleep, as I stayed up so late last night and got up so late this morning ... I'm out of cycle.

With my birthday coming up, Facebook keeps suggesting charities I should choose for my birthday! Man, this is irritating - bad enough that I'm now being reminded of my own birthdays, over and over and over again ... urgh. Such a nuisance, since I don't celebrate. Oh, I acknowledge the new age - no problem, but I'm happy to just let it be any other day.

For lunch I had one of those thin slices of beef I had bought - shared generously with Mewthos. I finished the loaf of bread, so tomorrow I can have rolls. I think I'll have them with jam. At least I haven't been upset today, so no heart beating like crazy ... I'm just going to slip under the duvet and cuddle random mippies while I watch Alfred Hitchcock Presents. I'm on Season 5 now ... quite enjoying it.

Lock-down Day 86

It was a quiet sort of day, most of today. Until about half past four, when my landlord started gabbling at me from outside - I was busy typing, so I finished my sentence, by which time he had come knocking on my front door.

First he offered me oranges, which I declined and then he barked at me to hang up the curtains he was holding out for me, in my bathroom. He's got visitors coming and doesn't want them to have to look at my torn bathroom lace curtains. I said no, and he got louder, saying how he's 'asking me nicely' to which I replied, calmly, that 'no, you're not asking me nicely, you're barking at me. I've had enough of that.' He screamed that those curtains WILL be put up in my bathroom, he will come into my home and do it himself tomorrow.

Then, as I was sitting at my PC again, he came to the bedroom window and carried on shouting at me - the curtains are closed, so I paid no attention. Except ... I'm scared! My heart is pounding and just won't calm down. I'm going ice cold, simply from the blood draining from me as I'm sitting here with a pounding heart, trying to calm down ...

I shared what had happened in a chatroom ... there is nothing I can do! I feel scared and helpless. As I was sitting here, I could hear them both outside, discussing how they will 'take control back over their own house'. It sounded like they were dictating an e-mail to some lawyers - she works at several lawyers offices, so she'll have all the might of lawyers behind her. They want the bathroom sorted out (I can only guess they mean the curtains), and the boxes to disappear from the lounge - how he's told me many times to do something about them ... he claims there are cockroaches in those boxes! Utter nonsense. And there's nowhere I can unpack them, anyway.

This new development leaves me very little option - I am going to have to move, and fast! Just ... how? I'm going to have to talk to my boss about finance - there is an annuity I should be able to cash in. But that will take time ... I'll also have to pay for a cat hotel again, there's no where to shut the cats in during the move.

On a positive note, though, there are quite a few really nice places going for less than I'm paying now. I haven't seen 'perfect' yet, nothing that really speaks to me ... but it's close to the end of the month, and new places should start popping up again soon. In the long run, it could be a good thing. The places available are all open plan - so much nicer! And if I can find a 2 bedroom place, I can use one for storage again.

Mippies let me wait for a long time, I got worried so I went out to look for them - and Ziva and Mewthos came to me and the three of us walked home. Janey did not come early - she let me wait for over an hour. Not too late, though!

When I was making myself a cup of tea, I found out that he's turned off the water again, so I can't even have a hot foot spa, nor a shower, nothing. That is illegal! He doesn't care ...

I've opened the lace curtains completely, so they are not visible from outside, and closed my curtains. I'll leave it like that tomorrow ... I really hope he won't force his way into my home! It's not much different than any other home invasion ... it feels the same, except I'm feeling it in trepidation ... expecting it to happen. Which lasts longer than an armed robbery!

I'm freezing now, so I'll climb under the duvet ... Can't even flush my toilet!

Lock-down Day 85

I was just thinking back, when this whole lock down started. 21 days - that was the plan. Big plans to make use of this unexpected holiday, then back to work and life as normal. There would be some financial implications, but nothing we wouldn't be able to weather - and everyone was promised financial support from the government!

Yeah ... now we're on Day 85 ... business are bankrupt, people are broke and hungry and our president is making empty speeches. Everybody is angry. The longer this continues the worse it's getting ... violent crime is on the increase, and the police are hunting down illegal cigarettes.

Yeah, they are STILL illegal! The judges have not made a ruling ... I just don't get it! You'd think they are deciding something of grave importance! I read today that somebody called FITA's offices and made such awful threats that a young lady, who works there, is now afraid to go to work!

I hoped that my next carton would be at legal prices again ... but it doesn't look like it ... and illegal prices are skyrocketing, out of my league! The leaves I ordered won't come any time soon - I'm reading of people who received their delivery some 6 days AFTER they started packing, and I haven't even received THAT yet. Remember my making plans with the left-over cigarettes? Yeah, looks like I'm going to run out rather than pack away.

I heard from my friend in PE again. Things are bad for him, they are sitting without electricity, so they take the baby to grandma over night. He's going around asking for work, anything, anywhere - no luck. Since I got my UIF, I could help him a little. He's been through plenty of tough times himself, but I've never heard him so ... close to depressed. That is frightening ... what this is doing to good, hard working people.

Every day in one of the lockdown facebook groups there is someone sharing a sad story. Not whining, nor looking for attention or such, just sharing ... it is really, really frightening. I often scroll past, simply because I just can't take much more ... there is so much of it, so much suffering. Too much is just too close to home ...

Mewthos is being extremely difficult tonight! He is absolutely adamant that he deserves another sachet - I am just as adamant, that I cannot afford that. I can't go back to 3, I just can't. And it's not like he's hungry, and not even lacking attention, either! Tonight I'm just about ready to throttle him! You know, I move my hand fast towards his face, as if I'm about to slap him - he doesn't even flinch! Just looks up at me with those baby eyes, filled with love ... sigh ...

I've warmed myself a few cups of milk tonight. I was going to add honey, but didn't.

And then I received a surprise call from an old friend! Turns out she stays not far from me and promised to come visit! See? It pays to keep the same number :) I've had the same cell phone number for as long as I've had a cellphone! Mewthos was being difficult while I was on the phone ... eventually I shut them all inside while I sat in the lounge. Having almost a whole of my few, last, precious cigarettes. Crap as they are.

Mewthos has finally settled down ... FINALLY! 

I didn't get much done today, I'm afraid. I washed the laundry and the dishes, baked myself some lovely pies - first time! Oh, I've wrapped stuff into pie dough and baked it, before, but I've never made several small pies. I used the large muffin tray. I topped them with a slice of potato and a dollop of my cottage cheese. Quite nice! Very nice, actually!

I didn't do much planning, though. I spent more time chatting than I did thinking, today. The Coronacast was about the current surge of violent crimes, a lot about the gender based violence, or GBV as it's referred to, and femicide, but also farm murders. It was very upsetting to learn that - for all the speeches - in reality, government isn't lifting a finger!

Right now, I'm just a little too cold for comfort, so I think I'll brew myself a chamomile tea and go sit in bed, watching a bit more AHP. Irritating, isn't it? This trend of using initials? I really dislike it. I'll be watching Alfred Hitchcock Presents :)

Lock-down Day 84

I woke up early, but only got up at seven. Mippies were restless - I'm sorry, but I'm going to work, darlings! They complained so much that I poured my coffee into my thermos mug and went off ...

At work, I was supposed to 'just quickly' do the production plan ... sigh ... I ended up spending hours fixing delivery notes sent out the past couple of days ... Seriously, it's not that difficult!?!

I also had a chance to have a chat with my boss. First the good news: the biggest tosser is gone! That's such good news, it almost overshadows the bad. But the bad is not quite as bad: I'm told to stress, but don't panic. Which basically means that my job - as such - is secure, but on an ad hoc basis for the time being. I won't be earning a full salary in the foreseeable future.

We bounced around a few ideas, and now my head is spinning with the possibilities. I need some time to slow down and plan ... this could work out to my advantage, in the long run.

When I got home, I let the mippies out - and didn't see them for ages! You'd think they didn't miss me at all! I also saw a message from a friend, offering to help me! Wow! That quite stunned me! It left me speechless for quite a while ... and THAT takes some doing!

I didn't get much else done today. I showered, played my game, and sat thinking, thinking, thinking ... 

Mippies came without much trouble. Mewthos was a little late, but not very. He wheedled a third sachet out of me, the pig! He just sits down and starts gobbling with such evident enjoyment ... it's a pleasure to watch! Even though he's a noisy eater - funny how that's okay in a cat, eh? Not pleasant when people do it. His head bobbed into neighbouring bowls whenever his was low, and the ladies were also still eating, so I kept re-filling his, so they could eat their share in peace. I finished up with a chicken heart each. Gobble, gobble, gobble! I fried myself a small steak - which I had to share with Ziva and Mewthos! Mewthos just couldn't get enough! You'd think he was starving!

I made myself several cups of tea, just to warm up! Ai, it's cold! I do NOT like winter! Mewthos had another 'restless mewling, mommy catch me' episode, but he's finally settled down - albeit a little apart from the ladies. Tomorrow I just get my milk again, and I'm home the rest of the day. For now, I'll watch a few more episodes of 'Alfred Hitchcock Presents'. I'm quite enjoying the humour!

Lock-down Day 83

Got up and took my coffee along on the drive to work. Collected my cat food and gave At his bread - he was very happy, as he had made his last slice today! He has also run out of cigarettes and tells me they are now selling at even more outrageous prices! I really hope that I can manage to make my own cigarettes from the leaves I've ordered. I can't afford to buy crap at such over inflated prices!

I asked if there's anything they need me to do today, but there was nothing, so I left. As I was filling my car, I got a call to ask me to come in tomorrow to do the production plan. Great, eh?

At home, the first thing I did was ... uh ... play my game ... then, the first thing I did was place my order. As I suspected, it might take quite a while, as they have quite a backlog - and they are in the process of changing over to a website, where one can order directly. With the crap I currently have, I tend to take just one or two puffs each time, so one cigarette lasts a couple of hours. I'm hoping they'll stretch until next week and I really hope my delivery arrives before I run out!

The power had gone off during the night again, no clue why. My PC doesn't like that much, it's been acting up all day. Ah, well ... nothing I can do but endure.

I've baked myself another batch of cookies and a batch of muffins, fried myself a steak - I've packed the leftover roast away for pies. I'll try to come up with some pie idea tomorrow.

I seriously dislike winter! It is so cold, everything starts acting up! The only time I'm warm is under my duvets. No matter where I do what, it's just too cold everywhere. At times like this, I sometimes wish I was back in Germany, where one could warm up the indoors and not freeze in one's home! A fair sized oil heater wouldn't really help here - I've tried that in the past. The problem is that the outside cold gets in absolutely everywhere - and, of course, the tiles are just as cold.

OMG! I'm gutted! I just received mail from work: They are retrenching ... no names, yet, but this round, I am scared. I'm too old to find work - and in this environment, when EVERYBODY is retrenching ... I have practically no chance! Retrenchment now is pretty much a death sentence ...

Before I go off on another tangent, driving myself insane ... tonight, I'll give this no further thought. Tomorrow, I'll go to work - who knows, maybe I'm told something. If not, then I have a few ideas which might just be worth investigating.

In the meantime, I also received my UIF for May. Less than last month, but it'll cover the rent.

Another address by our president - easing of Level 3 restrictions. We're now in Level 3 light. And then the current string of Gender Based Violence in the news ... and how wonderful our police is. Yeah ... no further comment.

I've had my chamomile tea, now I'll have a last smoke and then I'll curl up in bed where mippies are already warming the foot of my bed!

Lock-down Day 82

Ziva came home at 1 in the morning! Predictably, I didn't sleep well, I stayed half awake unable to really sleep, plagued by dreams of missing mips. I woke just after 1, I thought I heard Ziva, but the mippies on my bed didn't move. I got up and opened the front door anyway - and Ziva came running inside at top speed! Rushed straight to the food bowl, gobbled herself silly and then strolled around as if she wants to go back outside! Highly upset that I'm snug under my duvet, unwilling to move! At least I could now finally sleep!

I had a message from At yesterday, that a delivery had arrived. I replied that I'd call today - only, he reminded me that today is a public holiday. I decided to just go to work on Wednesday, unannounced. It'll also give me a chance to discuss delivery of the big leaves.

This morning, I woke up with the usual headache - related to the feather duvet. It's really strange, when I first bought it, I had no problem. Then, after about a year or so, suddenly I'd wake up with a headache whenever I used it. And yet, not every time. Yeah, I'm a little weirdo, too! Ha Ha Ha!

This morning, I let mips stay inside till eight, then I first went off to get my milk. I only allowed them outside, when I got back!

I decided to bake two loaves of bread today, one for me, one for At. I also took the mutton ribs out of the freezer, I'll bake myself a nice meal with those. It's cold today, and also overcast - outside is just not attractive at all. Mippies seem to agree with me, as I have a pair sleeping on the bed most of the day - oh, they take turns. Right now it's Mini and Mewthos.

Mini was a great help this evening! She had gone after Ziva in the late afternoon and when I called my mippies to come in, she went and chased Ziva all the way home! Ha Ha Ha! She really is a clever little darling! Naughty, too, but that's part of being clever! We had to wait for Janey tonight - but, not very long!

Soon after they came in, it started raining, too. I still plan on going to work tomorrow, unless it rains too much during the night. No need for my feet to get wet, is there? The rain is going to drop temperatures enough already.

All my mippies are safely home, curled up on the bed - so I'll be able to sleep well tonight! No worries, no missing mip dreams!