Thursday 9th April 2020 – Day Seventeen

Good morning all, hope that you had a good day yesterday.

Two things that I look forward to each day are my virtual breakfast with Charlotte. My breakfast is pretty boring, but I have started to make a fresh fruit platter, so I am mixing it up a little these days! At lunch time I FaceTime James. We have a chat about the homework that he has been set, and what movies and games we are going to play together, when the lockdown is over.

These two special moments provide some normality to my strange and isolated days. How about you? Are you using FaceTime more? Have you used Zoom yet? If so, would you be interested in Amber and I arranging either a virtual coffee afternoon or perhaps a pub quiz. Please let me know and we can start arranging one

What can I share with you today? – FOOD / SHOPPING

From Phil: Boots will close 60 of its least-used stores and move pharmacists to busier ones in response to coronavirus. The High Street retailer said in a statement today that it needed to make sure it had enough colleagues playing their ‘vital roles’ where they were most needed. The closure includes the Covent Garden store.

From Dominic: The Brompton Cycle Co., Long Acre is still open; the Vietnamese nearby also apparently though I saw no sign of life; the Post Office Aldwych also open, reduced hours. And ecco Drury Lane’s pizza menu looks very tempting, open ’til 8pm the guy said. Oystermen Henrietta Street is now also online for orders and has cycles and a van for local delivery.

ART & ENTERTAINMENT – From Nicky: Conway Hall is temporarily closed, however, they are delighted to announce that they’ll now be holding events online, where possible. There are a number of events coming – as well as some language and philosophy courses – with more to be announced as the current situation develops. Please note that Conway Hall will be asking for a donation. The first event is presented by the London Fortean Society; Shapeshifters: A History

Wednesday 15th April • 7.30pm – 9.30pm. There’s something about a shapeshifter – a person who can transform into an animal – that captures our imagination. The myths and magic surrounding them will be brought vividly to life by John B. Kachuba in this compelling and original cultural history talk. Donation £3.00

From Chris: Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours
208th Exhibition. Exclusively online! The Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours 208th show is the largest exhibition of its kind in the world, showcasing over 400 of the best contemporary water-based media paintings from around the globe. Since its founding in 1831 the RI has become universally recognised as one of the leading art institutes.

From Rosalind: Stage shows, musicals and opera you can watch online now for free. Including Pride and Prejudice, Jane Eyre and Jesus Christ Superstar

HEALTH – From Chris: In terms of keeping up to date with all the latest guidance nationally, the government has also launched a WhatsApp Coronavirus Information Service. The new free to use service aims to provide official, trustworthy and timely information and advice about coronavirus (COVID-19) and will further reduce the burden on NHS services.
To use the free Coronavirus Information Service on WhatsApp, simply add 07860 064422 in your phone contacts and then message the word ‘hi’ in a WhatsApp message to get started.’

From Enrica: These videos demonstrate exercises for people with lung cancer, COPD and other breathing problems (consult your doctor).

From Helena: Feeling anxious about coronavirus. With everything going on and the changes to day-to-day life many of us may feel anxious and worried. It’s natural to feel this way when there’s a lot of uncertainty. However, there are things you can do to help look after yourself mentally and feel more in control.

Today Amber is on duty – her number is 07715580216, and you can contact me ANY TIME on 07759 646507 in case of an emergency

Be safe

John

https://www.dragonhall.org.uk/dh-blog/