silence

So it is now 11 days in isolation  and there are compensations.  Nature is continuing to thrive.  Birds are nesting, woodpeckers are pecking, bees are buzzing and even butterflies are out and about.  No sign of the cuckoo though.  Another bonus is that the traffic has virtually stopped.

Here in France we now have to carry a signed form declaring that one is going to work, a food shop, pharmacy or solo exercise (walking that is).  Failure to declare or go anywhere else is punishable by a fine.  Brings back memories of living in eastern Europe all those years ago.  Roadblocks have been set up and police have been mobilised.  Of course I haven't seen any officer of the law in these parts since I moved here but I shall sign my form and carry it with me when I go for my daily walk.

Unlike many villages in France, our village has a shop, which is a life line.  No-one is panic buying,  you wouldn't dare, and I can buy fresh vegetables and fruit.   Apples are missing but I can't complain.  People keep a safe distance from each other and generally behave as asked.

Even walking the same routes can become slightly boring so today I am going to walk backwards.