10.2.2026 Tuesday - back on my feet

 Feeling good about my ankles, but taking it easier in squash (3-game limit) and then going for a few games of pickleball followed by a jump into the pool. I miss walking about so after dinner I go for a quiet stroll around the neighbour, it is supposed to help with one's digestion. 

I am reminding myself not to go easy on the gym work and swims now that I am able to play sports

9.2.2026 Monday - recovering well

 His text said 'Min, is Friday's dinner still on?

How rude, I thought - no salutations, no blessings (or do they reserve those for believers). I get friendlier texts for my colleagues and squash mates. As Sam says I am the eldest and should take the lead in organising this; the pre Chinese New Year dinner. This time, it will be at No. 40 which he is not seen yet, so it will be a nice experience for everyone including my nephews and nieces. I am quite looking forward to it, and playing big brother. 

8.2.2026 Sunday - hot and busy

after letting the soil settle for several weeks, the planting has started

mint drops by for dinner and a chat

a bike ride to and from pikabol followed by a quick swim, and plenty of hydration

and in the meantime, sam has crafted her planter bed

 

7.2.2026 Saturday - leaning into it

I cycle to play pickleball at the club, and after the game I can feel the strain on my ankles. The good news is that they recover and the aches are gone the next day. The other improvement is my ability to walk comfortably. I will text the doctor and tell him this good news on Tuesday which is one week after the steroid injections

The true test is running, and when I am able to jog slowly for 20 minutes say, then I will consider my recovery complete

6.2.2026 Friday - dinner and a lunch catch up

I didn't think that we would have much to discuss, but he is open and gives a good story about people and places. I buy him lunch and we promise to keep in touch via publication, and mutual friends such as Dicko. 

Later that evening, on the way to a nice dinner hosted by Jotun Paints - SY and I talk about how some of us can easily point out one of our built projects, while many senior folks cannot do this because they have not built anything significant though they are in their 40's

I must remind Sean about this, or at least ask him if this is already on his mind

5.2.2026 Thursday - lunch at the ritz

Sam and Sara were thrift shopping in the OXFAM on the right, while I sketched this view, I like how the road descends as it sweeps around the corner. It is the Aberdeen Library

We have lunch - the first in a long time, everyone is busy travelling or dealing with family matters. I always feel 'heard ' at these lunches and it is very satisfying. Another satisfying thing is returning to the squash courts, the footwork is a little clumsy but I am able to take two games from the doctor (we only played 2 games - I am leaning into sports activity as advised by the physio)
 

4.2.2026 Wednesday - re-activate

This morning, I hear of a disagreement about design copyright infringement, a local architect and acquaintance has used images of a landscape architect's work without acknowledging her. The client got wind of it and mentioned to me during a site walk. I listened without offering an opinion. I discuss with Freddie, we think the architect is wrong, it is not about how the LA has reacted - yes, perhaps there is no need to broadcast her grievances on social media or in the project group chat (that is how the client heard about it) - it is still unprofessional to make use of another person's work without prior permission or acknowledgement.