Fluffed

Despite the sunshine today it has been quite chilly out there so I can understand why this blue tit is fluffed up as s/he has the last feed before the sun drops below the horizon.

Thank you for your concern yesterday and my apologies if I sounded over dramatic but the family were heading back to the States and the morning was fraught with problems.  It was a very early start for them to Manchester which is okay if it is just yourselves, but the addition of a 16 month old makes everything extra complicated.  They were about to board the first plane for the hop to Dublin when it was suddenly pushed back, no explanations given.  They saw bags being unloaded and then learned the flight was cancelled and they were being re-routed via Heathrow.  They had to take back their luggage, re-check in and go back through security.  When time came to board again, the flight was very busy and there were lots of passengers not wearing masks - can you believe it?  Becky spoke assertively with the cabin crew and managed to get them moved away from these people who obviously had no concern for themselves or others.  I had to search the British Airways website for their mask policy and it clearly states (although it takes some finding!) that masks must be worn throughout the flight.  Then I had to navigate their 'customer service' website in an attempt to send my concern, being sent to FAQ and told I couldn't complain if I wasn't the passenger etc etc.  Interestingly, when we were tracking the flight to Boston, the home page of the airport website has a large yellow banner heading clearly stating that it is a Presidential Executive Order that the wearing of masks is mandatory.  Why don't we have the security in place to prevent people boarding if they refuse to wear a mask?!  Rant over.

Thankfully, the main flight was very quiet and the staff very pleasant and helpful.  Euan was the star of the day, remaining happy throughout the very many hours and the issues. 

The message came through at 01.17 that they were home, thank goodness.  They have also been able to book in their vaccinations so that is more good news.