^{[I originally posted this entry as early access for my Patreon patrons on 8 June 2021].}

I wanted to call this suspended animation. But the mayflies were definitely not still alive in any interpretation of the word.

These fellows made their presence known along the River Lea in Hertford last Monday when Simon and I ventured out for the day. I didn't know what they were at the time but found out tonight.

I found this line from the Encyclopedia Brittanica entry about the mayfly particularly drew my eye, though, thankfully, we didn't notice that at the time:

"The winged stages attract attention through mass emergences when they may make roads slippery, clog gutters, and taint the air with an odour of decay."

Today was calmer and more positive, despite a rocky start before going to bed in the wee hours of the morning.

For a start, my periodontist appointment was nowhere near as painful as I'd expected it would be after some relapses into bad habits in the past six months.

I have a new design/social media project to work on for a former colleague. I also have a research role I want to throw my hat in the ring for tomorrow.

And I've decided to try - as far as possible - to share a photo a day with you. And by "day", that may mean it carries over into the next day, technically. But as long as I'm awake, it's the same day, right?

Sometimes with a diary-like entry, like this one and my previous post. Other times, just an image.

Forgive me in advance if it doesn't happen every day, but I'll try.

The photos will be whatever fits my whims at the time. Perhaps something to reflect my feelings, the day I've had or just something random.

My other weekly themed shares will continue, and I'm still working on my Love letters to London, I promise.

I also bought a dust-free eraser and a putty eraser today. I want to continue sketching when I have the time and energy. I won't share everything I draw but, hopefully, there will be sketches I want to share from time to time.

My latest earworms are linked below. Two out of three feature Robert Smith from The Cure, one of my constant inspirations since about 1989. I spent many an evening writing terrible teenage poetry by candlelight while listening to Wish. Simpler days, though still full of angst.

How not to drown - Chvrches featuring Robert Smith

He said she said - Chvrches

Not in love - Crystal Castles featuring Robert Smith

Thanks to Chris for bringing the Crystal Castles track to my attention.