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Self-isolating and bored? It's time to turn corona-creative


By Caroline McMorran



It’s an old and well-worn, but apposite saying – when life gives you lemons, then it’s time to make lemonade.

As everyone knows, the meaning behind it is to look for ways to turn an adverse set of circumstances into an opportunity.

David Hutchison, who was brought up in Lochinver, is set to release his first historical crime novel the Book of Skulls this summer.
David Hutchison, who was brought up in Lochinver, is set to release his first historical crime novel the Book of Skulls this summer.

And life has certainly thrown an unprecedented curveball with the onset of the coronavirus crisis affecting all our communities.

Large numbers of people are having to self-isolate or work from home to avoid the spread of the illness. Many will find time long on their hands and miss the day-to-day contact with others.

But perhaps it is an opportunity to unleash your inner creativity.

Already individuals and groups in Sutherland have been quick to come up with creative, educational and interesting ways to spend your time and benefit others, from reading, to baking, painting stones and making bird boxes.

Artist, film-maker and author David Hutchison, who grew up in Lochinver but now lives in Edinburgh, got in touch with the Northern Times this week to say that he had decided to make his first novella - a short novel – which he wrote in 2012, available to all to download free of charge.

He said: "As the schools have closed, I thought it might be a good time to make the adventure story I have written for children and young adults free to download. It might cheer people up."

Called Storm Hags, the novella was inspired by cloning, the anthrax testing on Gruinard island and the legend of the Brahan Seer.

Mr Hutchison said: "The titular witches, the Storm Hags, speak in broad Scots and there is a glossary at the back, so it's handy for anyone wanting to learn a bit of Scots.

The story's protagonists, Kirsty and Angus. are embarking on a family sailing trip around the world when their parents disappear in a storm and their boat, the Marianne, is shipwrecked.

Marooned on the hidden island of Gruinsoye, they discover a land full of mystery and menace. A cult of psychics using ancient technology live side by side with mythical beings.

Mr Hutchsion said: "What should have been the experience of a lifetime suddenly turns into a struggle for survival and escape."

Storm Hags was shortlisted for a few prizes but did not get a publisher so Mr Hutchison self-published it via Flying Sheep.

He has just completed his first historical crime novel The Book of Skulls.

"It's set at the Edinburgh Medical School in the 1870s," he said. "It's a tale of identity and obsession and it should be out later this summer."

To download Storm Hags, visit https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/204550

However, there's only so much reading one can do before beginning to feel a bit restless and in need of some exercise or practical activity.

The Golspie branch of the Royal British Legion Scotland have come up with a great idea to occupy your time.

It is suggesting that members of the community, and particularly younger people, paint stones which could then be used to brighten up the village's Memorial Garden.

These ladybird stones are striking, but poppies would be an appropriate image for the War Memorial garden.
These ladybird stones are striking, but poppies would be an appropriate image for the War Memorial garden.

In an online post, branch chairman Kenneth McAulay said: "Here's an idea that may interest the younger members of our community.

"How about helping us brighten the village Memorial Garden by painting a stone or two? Maybe with a poppy on some or your favourite flower or garden creature, or just a funny face. Even if you're not of school age, it might be a bit of fun to cheer us all up.

"Get the brushes out and see what you can come up with!"

Mr McAulay added: "Let us know if you need them picked up, or just pop into the garden and put them on the wall by the poppy wreaths. Thanks!"

Another great suggestion has come from the managers of Gearchoille Community Wood.

Gifted to the community by Balnagown Estate in 2003, Gearchoille Wood is situated to the south of Ardgay.

It is a 30 acre, semi-natural ancient broadleaved woodland, predominately oak and birch.

There are a number of bird boxes dotted through the wood but some have rotted over time.

A spokesperson for the woods said: "We need more bird boxes for the wood to replace those that have rotted. So if you’re stuck at home with some wood, you could make one."

Instructions on how to make a simple but attractive bird box can be access at: rspb.org.uk

By the by, RSPB includes this fun factoid along with its bird box instructions: "The record number of birds found in one box is 63 wrens! They are very small, but that's a lot of wrens."

Brora Community Events Group has also not been tardy in making a suggestion as to how to keep busy and it has taken inspiration from the mad scramble, as the coronavirus crisis intensifies, to get to the shops and stockpile goods.

The group said: "We've been thinking how we could help each other when people are self isolating and one way is to share recipes.

"Since the shop shelves are getting bare, a lot of people are struggling and are having to rely more and more on what they have in their cupboards."

The group is inviting people to share their recipes on its Facebook page and are suggesting the recipes should be simple and cost-effective.

It adds: "Whether it's a snack, main meals, desserts or simple tips to make those ingredients go further, please post them."

One follower of the group has already posted a tasty recipe for 'cheat chicken fricassee'.

So lift your spirits and chase the boredom away by downloading a novella, making a bird box, painting stones or sharing your family's favourite recipes.

You never know, you might find a whole new pastime.


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