Substack diary no.129: Monday, 20th. April 2026

In contrast to yesterday this morning is grey and still. It is difficult to tell if blue patches are expanding or contracting; they seem to be modulating, although I am hopeful of more blue and perhaps even the sun itself which, sadly, does not seem to be burning off cloud faster than it can form. My cappuccino brings cheer, although I am increasingly concerned that my Sage Creatista Pro Nespresso machine is destined for an all-too early retirement. What is it with machines these days? I cannot afford to replace it.

A debate is raging in my head over a matter that, whilst not trivial, should not engage me in so much brain activity: should I or should I not get the bus into town this afternoon? I do not need to go into town, but I would like to catch up with a friend I am trying to help out. A loaf of bread and a few things from the greengrocer in the market would not go amiss either. However, I will find it impossible to resist a visit to the pub, especially as said friend will be there after work, providing a more genial atmosphere for discussing matters than his shop – The Eco Weigh.

I am helping out in a small way, mainly with photography and graphics. People like pics these days rather than text that explains why nature-friendly products are better. Hopefully we can combine the two in social media posts.

At least the debate raging in my head, trivial though it might be, is distracting me somewhat from the madness engulfing the world out there. That and another cappuccino.