BLOGGER, CARTOONIST, CYCLIST, BEARD OWNER & NORTHMAN

DESCENDED FROM NORSE KINGS & NORMAN INVADERS

Tuesday, 8 July 2025

THE POWER OF THE PEOPLE

overnments are fundamentally supposed to look after the people they serve. I've previously voiced my profound disappointment in our current Labour government's initial proposals for welfare reforms, seeing them as a wanton attack on the most vulnerable in society.

This week, however, brought a small but significant victory: thanks to a widespread public backlash, the proposed bill was drastically watered down. Let's be clear, this wasn't due to an sudden attack of conscience from our leaders; it was the immense pressure exerted by the public on backbench MPs that ultimately forced a change in the legislation. It's a stark reminder that collective voices, when loud enough, can indeed make a difference.

Reality Bites After New Quay
While that news brought a flicker of hope on the political front, things on the home front haven't been quite so rosy since our return from our wonderful trip to Wales. Stepping back into work felt like walking into a storm. Most of the tasks that accumulated while I was away hadn't been covered, plunging me into a relentless cycle of "service recovery." It meant dealing with numerous individuals who hadn't received timely attention, which is never an easy or pleasant task.

Adding to the stress, our car has developed a frustrating habit of frequenting the mechanic, already having been back twice this week. It's become a significant source of tension for us, adding an unwelcome financial and logistical burden to our days.

Missed Milestones and Future Hopes
Amidst these everyday challenges, a rather significant personal milestone quietly passed us by this week: our 26th wedding anniversary. Instead of a celebration, I was working, and Morticia was busy babysitting our grandson. It was hardly the occasion one might hope for. Reflecting on it, our silver wedding anniversary last year also passed without any real fanfare. It seems we are well and truly overdue for a proper, big celebration. Hopefully, that "big do" will materialise sometime soon, allowing us to truly mark the years we've shared.

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