Lionel the Monster

To add some amusement to a difficult and challenging time for us all, and to brighten this blog post, I’m relaying a tale about one of our extended family pets, Lionel the Monster, who went into full-out defense mode this week when a friendly magpie ventured into the house.

This pint-size canine went totally berserk, off his head –

my son screamed at Lionel,

my daughter-in-law screamed at Lionel,

as Maverick the very wise and lovable golden retriever looked on, unconcerned.

At one point the unfortunate bird was in Lionel’s  mouth

(you’ll need to imagine as there was not time for a photo) . . .

but there was a happy ending.

Short of only a few feathers, and a little ruffled, the magpie was rescued by my son and released outside, but the missing feathers remained in Lionel’s vice-like jaws, like a prized possession. (I have still not forgiven him and all I can say is that looks are deceiving.)

Meanwhile, my husband Grant returned home from a work trip to the US at 8.30 a.m. on the same day self-isolation became compulsory at midnight. We still decided to self-isolate so, he drove into our garage and went straight upstairs. I waited in the backyard but we both wore face-masks on his swift strut through the bottom level amidst lavender candles burning and the house liberally sprayed with Glen 20 and Dettol.

He has taken over my office upstairs and has all he needs up there, with his meals left half-way up the stair on a regular basis. We are being as careful as we can be and by Saturday we both hope he will remain symptom free and can venture downstairs and out for walks.

And of course my book launch on April 4, for To the Bridge, along with the Sydney launch has been cancelled as have so many other things for all of us.

Stay safe and well and I’m thinking that laughter is probably the best medicine, so thank you Lionel.

Corinne x