A different but delightful birthday

Australia has been put into semi lock down due to the Coronavirus.  We are now only allowed outside for essential items which means food shopping, seeking medical advice, going to work if it can't be done from home and exercising.  Exercising can only involve 2 people and they must maintain 1.5 metres between them.  To be honest it doesn't feel hugely restrictive especially compared to places like the UK and Europe: I get out twice a day - once to walk the dog and once to run - and I have changed my food shopping habits and aim to do 1 big shop a week with one smaller top up.  There are still shortages in the supermarkets around toilet paper, pasta, rice and some meats but supply is slowly improving.  Other than that the main difference is not being able to see friends and go out to dinner.  Tom is still able to surf and fish, Jules is doing his exercise class online and Tess goes running with a school friend 3 times a week.  

I had a lovely birthday during the week.  Everyone was around for breakfast to wish me happy birthday - they've usually all left home by 7.30am - and I had a number of lovely calls with family in the UK.  Lisa and I did a long walk down to Manly and back once the kids were "at school".  The kids and I had a relaxed lunch together.  I cooked a delicious cake which we had for afternoon tea (the kids are usually at activities), we had a lovely dinner at home and then I had Zoom drinks with 7 of my good girlfriends.  I spent more time with the family than I ever have on any other birthday!  

Another positive of the social distancing is that the kids are "playing" more together which is lovely to see.  They spend time playing Minecraft together and watching old Disney movies and the photo above is of Tess trying to master Tom's rip surf with his help.  

This photo explains why I'm busier than usual - this is typical lunch detritus left for me to clean up.  

I had a lovely catch up with Robert, Caroline and baby George via FaceTime.  I love this picture they sent me - such a mini Robert! 

George aged 2 months