Fantastic views across the Solent on my cycle to work

So, I’ve set myself a challenge – cycle to work every morning this week.

I leave home just after 5am for the nine-mile ride. It’s a tad chilly, but it’s so worth it.

Osborne House on the Isle of Wight glows orange from Lee-on-the-Solent. The reflection from windows in Cowes almost blinds you!

I’ve noticed far more wildlife and the silence of the countryside is deafening.

Cycling past Daedalus with the sun popping above the horizon and a layer of mist filled my pumping heart with joy.

You have to do what's right for your family

We have really struggled to home educate with Freddie and his four-year-old sister Holly.

I’m at work so Sarah is on her own.

Getting both children to sit down and concentrate has been nigh on impossible.

Even with plenty of help and advice from school it’s tough.

Working on an iPad, Freddie has enjoyed some of the work, but not others and finds it hard to apply himself.

He also wants to see what his sister is doing and vice versa!

Sarah had managed to set a timetable for them to follow each morning and by the time I get home at lunchtime, they are finished and so is Sarah.

Freddie is really missing the structure of the school day and, to a certain degree, the discipline.

I’m sure he needs a break from his sister too.

It’s been a real worry about sending him back. We have done so well self-isolating, adhering to the government guidelines.

During our Zoom chats with other friends with kids, it’s clear no one was clear on what to do. There was only one thing for it.

We went back to school to speak to his teachers.

They are working so hard to make sure everything is ready for them.

Classes are being divided into 15 pupils with two teachers.

All equipment and furnishings that are difficult to clean are being removed and the school will close each Friday to allow for a deep clean.

With each child having their own desk and regular hand washing, we felt confident it’s right for Freddie to go back. He wants to as well.

If you don’t think it’s right for your child, then keep them off.

At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter about what anyone else thinks, it’s what’s best for you and your family.

First world problems, yes, but frustrating all the same

First it was loo roll and hand sanitiser, then it was flour, now there are different shortages.

I have taken matters into my own hands and given myself a Coronacut.

Sadly, my beard trimmer wasn’t up to the job so I decided to invest in professional corded clippers.

Can I find some anywhere? Argos, Boots, John Lewis – all sold out.

With no prospect of a foreign summer holiday, to make the most of our staycation we wanted to buy one of those small two-seater hot-tubs.

Again, sold out!

First world problems in Alverstoke, I know, but these things are important, like slowly poaching yourself in the garden.

Fantastic views across the Solent on my cycle to work | Rick Jackson