Remember the children's nursery rhyme that went "I'm H-A-P-P-Y?" That carried on to be able to make statements those of us ploughing away in pandemic life would love to be able to say "I know I am, I'm sure I am…" - it's been a while since any of us had the luxury of certainty.

We do have a roadmap now though, and we here at MMAP do love it when a plan comes together. So whilst it's a bit of a stretch to be full on H-A-P-P-Y about milestones writ small such as winter outdoor picnics not being illegal in March, with April 12th, May 17th and Jun 21st representing major moments on the path back to being social animals once again, this week I've taken inspiration from that childhood song to keep us focused on being in the final strait, when it might feel a bit more like we're still in a strait jacket.

H is for Hang on in there. One of my favourite quotes is unattributed, but if the source is ever tracked down, I'll certainly be giving them a firm shake of the hand (post 21st June, of course). It's a great way of staying grounded when it feels like you're not making progress and everything feels what is technically known as "a bit meh".

"You've got 100% track record of getting through bad days so far."

A is for Always look on the bright side of life. Whether you fall into contemporary fans of Python philosophy, or more contemporary coders of Python, do small things to acquaint yourself with brightness. This can be as simple as making a habit to look at a beautiful sunrise or sunset photo on your phone.

P is for Please yourself. Make the most of the last few weeks of not having to go places, be somewhere, wear close-fitting clothes, taking your lunch break when a naff TV movie is one. They're not the kind of things that fill us with much joy right now, but we'll miss them when they're gone.

P is for Play by the rules. The finish line is in sight. Now is not the time to get casual about hygiene or social distancing. Keep acquainted with reality and don't kid yourself that vaccines that haven't yet happened, or regulations that haven't yet changed, are in any way licence to start changing your behaviour ahead of schedule.

Y is for You matter. This one is always true, of course, but this has been a giant, enforced social experiment and patience, emotions and mental health are all wearing thin. Do at least one thing, each day, that's an act of self-care for yourself - even if it's just 10 minutes of calm away from it all.

Next fortnight, a culinary-themed mini-series begins for those of you who may be reflecting on the lockdown effect on waistlines and energy levels. To kick off the new series, I’ll be musing On Chocolate.

Please get in touch with any particular aspects of this topic you’d like me to write about.

In the meantime,

Happy Planning