Recently, my ‘picking’ has garnered 2 minor complaints. The first was a customer who wanted Cheshire cheese. There was a big empty space on the shelf, and a note stating it was out of stock. This was duly put into the scanner, and the customer requested I choose an alternative. Which I did. Later, the supervisor questioned me about it, and I stated that I can’t pick what we don’t have, so I gave an alternative. The second concerned mince pies. I couldn’t find the one requested, so I gave an alternative which they obviously did not appreciate; you’re damned if you do, and damned if you don’t. Anyway, in these unprecedented times of a global pandemic that has thus far resulted in over 1.5 million deaths worldwide, I think it’s marvellous that standards are being maintained, and that people can take time out from their busy little lives to complain about what stinking brand their goods are. LMAO

It’s also wonderful that people can find fun in these times too. Last week I was cut off by a male customer and had to screech my trolley to a halt, then just as I was about to get going again, his female friend did exactly the same. They then both looked at me, maybe hoping to get a response, and walked off together laughing. If all it takes to make their day is to try and get a rise out of a lowly shop worker, then I’m happy to oblige; anything to keep the customers happy. Mind you, what I said about them in the privacy of my own head is not printable… If I ever get The Ship out of dry dock, I’ll be polishing up the plank, believe me!

My brother-in-law, also a supermarket worker, has been sent home by management. Apparently, he has a terrible cough and whilst they suspect it may be a chest infection, they’re not taking any chances. He has to have a Covid test, and he’s not allowed back until he gets a negative result. It’s good that his employer is being cautious, and at least they’ll be paying him. I suggested he gets some antibiotics in case it is a chest infection, but you try getting a doctor’s appointment… It’s not too surprising that people are getting sick, and I’m often disappointed at how many customers are milling around talking to each other with little regard for social distancing. Don’t even get me started on families of 5 and even 6 coming in to shop. I do understand some people can’t be left at home alone, but when 2 adults come in, towing along all their kids, it does make me see red; I’d keep them away to protect them as much as possible and have a lone adult do the shopping. Most people are being sensible, though it only takes a minority to keep this going. In good news, our local town is falling behind the nearby town in infection rates so locally, at least, we must be doing something right.

Oh, I just found out that our town and the nearby town will be part of this ‘rapid Covid testing.’ Sounds good, until you read that these tests allegedly missed 51% (according to SAGE, on the BBC site) of cases in the trial area of Liverpool. So, what’s the point? You could get a negative test, carry on as usual, but be infecting others? Mad…

The weather here has been a total drag and I genuinely can’t remember when we had a few dry hours, let alone a dry day. It’s been misty drizzly rain that soaks you before you know it, interspersed with heavy downpours. How much can it rain? Seriously? The Ship’s Dog has missed a few walkies as I don’t want him getting too wet and maybe chilled, especially at his age. I don’t want to get too wet or chilled either, mind you.

Apart from that, we’re good. Just the odd cold, taking care to keep to ourselves as much as possible, wearing a mask, social distancing blah blah blah lol

Take care, keep safe, keep warm and dry.