BEATING THE BLUE

lue Monday was allegedly last week, falling on the third Monday of January as it does every year. It is widely said to be the most depressing day of the calendar, and while I don’t entirely subscribe to the theory, I can certainly recognise where it stems from. It’s that familiar cocktail of the post-festive slump, short daylight hours, and the long, cold stretch toward payday—though I’m fortunate enough to be paid mid-month, which spares me that particular sting.

Change at the Doorstep

At the end of last year, our neighbours moved out. We had a great relationship and wished them well, but their landlord was selling up and they had an opportunity to move on. Last week, the new owner arrived. Unfortunately, it’s another private landlord.

I’ve never had much time for the "buy-to-let" market, particularly when it prices lower-income buyers off the housing ladder, but I won’t get started on that again—at least not today. For now, my main grievance is the noise. The renovation is in full swing, and while I know it's temporary, it’s certainly put a dampener on the extra days off I’d booked for some peace and quiet. Given some of the horror stories we’ve had over the years, I can’t help but feel a bit apprehensive about who the new tenants will be.

The Road to Recovery

On a more personal note, I recently attended a medical assessment regarding my bike injury from last year. The goal was to secure a formal report on my ongoing condition, as I’m still dealing with a fair amount of pain and discomfort.

The doctor confirmed that I need physiotherapy, which should apparently be covered by the other party’s insurance. I’m currently on a waiting list for physio through occupational health and have a GP appointment in a couple of weeks, so for now, it’s a case of "wait and see."

Back in the Saddle

Despite the niggling injury, I’m making good progress with my bike commutes. Surprisingly, the cycling isn’t impacting my back, and the exercise is actually aiding my recovery. Some might say winter isn't the most logical time to resume outdoor training, but I’ve always been known as a determined cyclist—or perhaps just a bit of an idiot, depending on your point of view!

I also managed to get into my shed last weekend to clear out all the junk that had been shoved in there before the festive period. I finally have proper storage for my new bike, alongside my others, and more importantly, I’ve reclaimed my "special place." My description in a previous post perhaps painted a picture of a much larger outbuilding, but as you can see from the image, it’s a cosy space—and exclusively mine.

If you appreciate the stark resilience of northern life—and the persistence it takes to tackle both steep climbs and daily hurdles like the ones I've shared today—you'll find those same echoes in my webcomic, Northman. While I’m busy reclaiming my shed and navigating the road back to full fitness, my characters are traversing much more treacherous terrain through the rugged landscapes of Jorvikshire.

Read the latest chapter here: northman.kirt.me.uk

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