Learning New Skills

So, what can we say about this terrible pandemic that hasn't already been said?

       The amazing work from our wonderful NHS, Care Workers and all Key workers have kept this country going and also reminded us of the contribution and sacrifice they make to keep our society running. My wife has been making 'ear savers' out of plastic milk bottles for the NHS staff to attach their facemasks thus relieving pressure from the ears. We know its not much but hope that it provides some comfort for these wonderful people.

        Meanwhile those of us who don't hold key positions have been thrust into a whole new world of learning! I would always describe myself as a family man, I work hard to provide for my family and try to be a good Dad to my 2 girls and a good husband to my wife and whilst this is true these last few weeks have shown me just how little time I actually spend with my nearest and dearest.

        The first week of lockdown was pretty hectic for me working out what we could/couldn't do, contacting customers and suppliers and then mothballing the business. Then the LEARNING began...helping my 12 and 10 year old girls with their schoolwork...kids get a bad press from a lot of quarters but I have to say I certainly don't remember the work being as difficult when I was young!

        Dad "how do you say once a week in French"? results in me trying to covertly look at my phone and find google translate as we only did ONE TERM of French at school (we were taught German, you see) and then being asked to deal with dividing fractions at the same time as explaining how to spell Mississippi!

        Since those heady first few days I've tried my hand at Baking, Cooking, Music, PE and Computing as well as all of the usual subjects and feel I have been learning almost as much as the kids.

         House Maintenance, Decorating, Cleaning, Tidying and Gardening are a few of the other skills that I've brushed up on and I feel very privileged and lucky to have been able to do this.

         I hope this long overdue blog post finds you well and whilst brought about in awful circumstances I have cherished this time with my family and really discovered what is important in life.

         By the way the answer is "Une fois par semaine"

Take Care, Nathan.