The big freeze continues........

Crikey, day two of the 'big freeze' hits the UK, and not only is it reportedly colder than Moscow (which is cold enough to freeze the tail off a polar bear - I know, I've been there), but my village remains virtually cut-off, with schools closed and the inhabitants unable to get to work.

Actually, that is not strictly true. If anyone made a bit of a concerted effort, they could probably scale the proverbial perimeter fence. But the will seems to be lacking....... and for good reason. 

The snow has created a real community spirit in the village. With everyone off work, instead of the streets being home to cars, they are now full of parents playing with their children, impromptu snowmen and snowball fights. Even better, the village pub, The White Horse Inn is full of locals at lunchtime, chattering to each other and comparing sledging stories.

It's absolutely bloody great...... well with a few exceptions.............

1. My supplies are dwindling. Having been unable to get to the supermarket, my last two meals have consisted of Tesco's Chicken Tikka Masala. Because I bought them in bulk (they were on offer), the situation doesn't seem to be changing anytime soon. I estimate that if I eat three meals a day, I will have enough Chicken Tikka Masala to last me a further five days...... beyond that, I am a goner.

2. My house is freezing cold. The heating is running 24 hours a day, the boiler is groaning and sweating under the strain, but it just doesn't have the grunt to cope with the drafts and wafts of a house built in 1646. So I remain permanently clad in my normal clothes, plus a thermal vest, bodywarmer, two pairs of thermal socks and a woolly hat (yes, indoors that is). Ok, not the sexiest look, but without my garb, I am sure I would have to make like Scott of the Antartic..... "I'm going outside.... I may be sometime."

3. There seems to be an emerging black market for sledges. I am not totally sure about this, but I have sensed an underlying 'sledge envy' going on. Especially from those who didn't anticipate the snow-dump and remain sledgeless. I have not been taking any chances, and have ensured that my blue, ankle high, plastic-moulded snow chariot remains firmly ensconsed under my bed whilst I sleep.

Anyway, before I pop off, here are some pictures of the village in day two of the 'big freeze' (Canadians are probably pitying this weedy dump!):

Pic.No.1. The fields behind my house. This is my arty shot. It deteriorates from this point onwards

Pic.No.2. The sun sets on Polecat Lane, Forest Hill

Pic.No.3. Naughty George disappears down Polecat Lane (the black speck under the bush at the end)

Pic.No.4. The White Horse Inn photographed from the front of my house...actually, this photograph is most uncomplimentary

P.S. News just out....... the local radio has just broadcast a bulletin saying that all schools and public institutions remain closed for at least tomorrow...... Boyakashaaa! More holidays!