Work, Chivalry and Motherly Wisdom - Don't forget the biscuits!

Do you ever get the impression that you've just completed a six day week? This one felt just like that, helped only by the constant supply of shortbread, which the ladies have now discovered are my favourites :-) Yet it's Mothers Day now, the sun has been shining and I have just got back from a lovely meal out with my family. I hope other Mum's out there have had a nice day too.  

Preparations for the election continued where we left off, with most of my week spent inputting postal voters into the system. This is a long and tedious process but the end is in sight. I will probably be cracking on with this when I arrive back in Peterborough tomorrow morning. I did manage to catch a break from this on Thursday and Friday when I was tasked with putting together the two parts of an eight page newsletter, counting them out and then bundling them together with surveys we prepared a few weeks ago. I don't mind this. Part of me rather likes the feeling of tangible work; the texture of the paper in my hands and watching the completed piles of newsletters tower up beside me. As much as I encourage the use of technology, there is something artificial about working with it. Just to prove my point about technology, I used a computer to find some new work opportunities as either a Researcher or a Parliamentary Assistant. Covering letter is done, just tailoring my CV. Wish me luck.   

I was also delighted to find that Stewart Jackson has implemented some of the suggestions in my initial communications plan, such as registering with Twitter. I have yet to convince everyone there of the merits of digital engagement but Stewart seems to like it. I must say I was expecting his tweets to be dry, but was surprised to discover not only an astute politician, but a humorous man who is not afraid to engage in friendly banter with allies and enemies alike. I am now working on a new inclusive communications strategy in the hope it will be just as well received.

On a smaller note, we have had a number of prospective councillors come into the office; presumably to check on the progress of their own local campaigns. One such lady had come in to collect some leaflets we had prepared for her. As she was leaving, she dropped a few on the floor. I instinctively stopped what I was doing to help her pick them up. I was promptly rewarded with a smile and a warm thank you. Chivalry pays! I had also been taken to heart when watching 'Eddie Izzard: Marathon Man' on television. I noticed would be gang members talk about new purposes to life or school children donating part of their pocket money to his Sports Relief fundraiser.

I mention these only because it reminds me of something my mother had told me. That having a conscience is doing the right thing even when no-one is watching. Something to think about perhaps?  

Anyway, thanks for reading. I wish you all a good week. Speak soon! :-)