Ugh. Up and down isn’t the word; I’ve never been so keen to get back to work and just get it all over with.

Maya, I am in exactly the same boat as you. I’m really sorry someone else feels like this too. I’m dreading it the closer it gets. And how hard is it to avoid all the NYE stuff?

I have no choice; I’ve lost my dearest friends in the last few months to depression that’s just been diagnosed. So, I’ll be starting the Prozac and trying to avoid all mention of it, going to bed as soon as I think I’ll sleep, and wake up when it’s over.

Thanks for the guitar lessons, DAD.

How unbelievably fucking unacceptable. That racist knew exactly what she was doing.

Yep, yep and more yep. Ugh.

Seconded. As one of those, I also want to nominate my sisters here who provided support and a listening ear (...or...reading eye?...) and who helped me throughout the darkest times earlier in this year. I’m not sure I’d still be here if it wasn’t for having somewhere to talk about it and find I’m not alone.

Probably. I commented there too, and saw a lot of the ones that got removed. It seems we’re still in The Backlash period...

Warning: do not go on The Guardian and read the comments under an interview today with Jessica Chastain, that covers her speaking out.

Behold, The Father of Four Daughters Speaks Again.

Ok. I think you maybe need to step away from the eggnog?

This is why we do not speak of Captain Corelli’s Mandolin. And why I haven’t watched any adaptations of beloved books since.

Do it. I liked her in Silver Linings, and the most in American Hustle, weirdly. But that’s after Winter’s Bone; I found it very odd to discover she was this cheerful, gobby person after that, as it was first time I saw her in anything. Not sure it will work for you the other way round!

It has to be, and you must remember it’s not ok for anyone to convince you otherwise.

Well, we’ve all been there...

Imagine her as she was in Winter’s Bone, and it’ll be ok. Read the book, first, though. It’s hauntingly brilliant.

I read Burial Rites a few years ago and it’s stayed with me. A stupendous and shocking book. Best to avoid the film, though.

Hee hee! I hope you do, and have a ball. X

For real? Or a Sassy Trump clip?

SILENCE, DEMON!