Normalcy

Right across the corner from where we live (cc from Rene Schroeder)

Luebeck on top (cc from Gregorius Mundus)

Photo cc from avianto (I used to work (happily) in this building situated on the Luebeck harbour overlooking the city)

The ice is melting creating riverlettes of running water into flooded streets. It is so exciting to get back to "normal". Off walking with a friend. This is a complex activity of decision making (roads or muddy paths along the canal), lots of talking (getting-everything-off-your-chest sort of stuff), and a quick pit stop at a flower shop/café for a warm cup of hot chocolate. Ah, blissful normalcy.

A Graph is Worth a Thousand Words

My son sent me this graph (large format). If correct, the graph does put a lot of perspective on how effectively the present US administration is at rectifying matters; having been dealt a bad hand to start.

Life is a roller coaster ride these last weeks. There have been many highs: watching my daughter play her first sax solo, reading the first three exciting chapters of a dear friends book, seeing my son prepare madly for his final exams (Abitur), sharing some wonderful times with friends from "down south", slip-sliding-away on the icy streets of Luebeck. The troughs are best passed over. These are exceedingly busy times. I'm endeavouring, not always successfully, to raise my hands in the air and shriek with amazement rather than crouch down and hold on the the ridges with by the tips of my fearful fingertips.

Going Rouge

Bill Nighy stars in Robin Hood tax campaign

More than 50 charities are supporting the campaign to levy a Tobin tax on transactions between financial institutions, which can be used to help fight poverty, protect public services and tackle climate change.

This you've got to see! This idea is the type of "going rouge" that makes sense. Call me naive, but I think the idea is brilliant.