On a day we normally spend feasting with family, people all over the world spent it alone or with whoever they were spending the lock down with. It was a strange way to spend a holiday.

If Facebook is anything to go by, singles and couples all over the world celebrated Easter with a leg of lamb. I’m sure there will be so many yummy leftovers over the next few days! If you want some advice on what to do with the leftovers, check out a blog I wrote a few weeks ago. It turned into more than 20 meals from one leg!

My day started off really well. I went to check on my balcony garden and found someone had dropped a few chocolate eggs into my herb box! Since we’re on the second floor, they must have come from upstairs. It was such a lovely idea. Perhaps they thought my mint and parsley needed some encouragement. I know I certainly did. My not-future-mother-in-law (who I need to find a shorter name for) was gifted some daffodil plants by her neighbours. I love how this lock down is bringing out the best in some people.

Aaron and I shared a lamb shank rather than a whole leg, and had it with a whole tray of roast potatoes. Needless to say, it was heaven! It made for a very indulgent evening, but that’s what Easter is normally all about. I used the Instant Pot for my lamb shank and cooked it in a red wine gravy with onion, carrots and celery. A small bit of cinnamon bark adds a little something to the sauce without being overpowering.

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Aaron and I had planned to spend this weekend in Zurich. We were looking forward to exploring somewhere new and making the most of being so close to the rest of Europe. Instead, four days of sitting in the flat makes for something very different! At least we’re able to enjoy our traditions and spend time together. I realise not everyone is able to do this.

After a month of lock down, I’m still feeling a bit all over the place. I didn’t sleep until 4am last night, so now I’m exhausted. Mentally, I’m much better than I was a few days ago (thank you to the lovely people who sent me supportive messages) but still not as strong as I’d like to be.

I’m learning to be kind to myself though. Everyone is going through a challenging time right now, and as terrible as it sounds, it’s nice not to be in this alone. Normally it’s hard for people to understand depression and anxiety, but in situations like this, everyone can relate to those feelings.

Food-wise, I’m trying to find a bit of balance. After my indulgence yesterday, today will be much lighter. I find my body responds better when I treat it well. Nothing ground breaking there! So I’ll be focusing on fruit and veg, with good proteins. Salmon for brunch, and tofu for dinner.

Macron is addressing the nation tonight to extend the lock down. I’m just going to hope these measures are working and it’ll all be worth it in the end. Keeping my fingers crossed.

Look after yourself and stay safe.