dole

 i've signed on.

in fact, i signed on.... some time ago..... on the 4th of Feb.... i was advised..... 

<quote>

You’ve submitted your New Style Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) application.

You submitted your application on: 04/02/2025

What happens next

We will process your application and keep you updated on its progress.

<end quote>

And so you may join me in your surprise that ten days later, i have still not heard ANYTHING!

I feel sorry for the people who really need it cos it'd be very stressful indeed.  Anyone would think they didn't want you to claim that to which you are entitled.

Anyways, as i said at one point today.... onwards and ....... onwards!

I have, on this very day, been "reprofiling" the moorland.

It's like painting the Forth Bridge using peat, heather and hammers.

Essentially we were turning eroded banks of peat that run alongside streams into shallow slopes that run alongside streams.  The tools for this particular job were lump hammers and tampers.  Heavy metal swinging, in chain-gang style while singing cotton-grass picking songs at the top of our lungs.

Bloody hard work to be fair..... bloody hard work...... bloody endless task...... but the camaraderie and fresh air were the best medicine for someone looking for their path in life.... i.e. me!

I'm knackered.....

I saw a kingfisher this morning darting along the canal before we started work...... and i spent the day amongst grouse and geese..... it tried to snow on us and at one point i went to view a hummock of assorted sphagnum mosses.

here's a photo of a kingfisher......  i know, right?