Well... that was painful.
Scotland's dream of making history took a bit of a battering against Brasil, eventually losing 3-0. The frustrating part wasn't just the scoreline—it was that we gifted them a couple of goals. Against a team like Brasil, you simply can't afford to hand out presents. Despite the result, we're somehow still in with around a 42% chance of reaching the knockout stages. Scotland have never made it this far before, so the dream isn't over just yet. I'll still be watching with crossed fingers and probably hiding behind a cushion.
"Supporting Scotland isn't for the faint-hearted, but giving up hope has never really been an option."
Wildlife, Highs and Lows
Earlier last week I visited Five Sisters Zoo. I expected to see the usual favourites, but somehow ended up fascinated by the capybaras. If you've never seen one, imagine a giant guinea pig that's mastered the art of looking permanently relaxed. They quickly became one of my favourite animals in the zoo.
Unfortunately, the drive home ended on a much sadder note. We spotted two badgers that had been hit by vehicles at the roadside. As someone who has a bit of a soft spot for badgers (there's a clue in the name of this blog!), it genuinely saddened me. Nature can be beautiful, but it can also be incredibly cruel.
Finally Having Some Answers
Last week was also the reason there wasn't a Brock Log. My PPPD decided to remind me that it still likes to make life awkward, and I had a bit of a flare-up. Some days it's manageable, others it completely wipes me out. Last week happened to be one of the latter.
Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness is a long-term condition that causes dizziness, balance problems and a feeling of unsteadiness. It can make everyday life surprisingly challenging, even when everything looks perfectly normal from the outside.
On the brighter side, I finally received my official dyslexia diagnosis. At 49 years old it's strange to finally have an explanation for things I've struggled with for most of my life. Nothing about me has changed overnight, but understanding why some things have always been more difficult feels like a weight has been lifted. It also means I can now access the support available through university, which hopefully makes the next two years a little easier.
Confession Time...
I may have developed a slight addiction.
Farming Simulator 25 has somehow managed to consume far more of my spare time than I ever expected. I started thinking I'd have a quick go, and before I knew it I was researching crop rotations, learning how to make Total Mixed Ration for cows, and becoming irrationally annoyed by hay bales that refused to cooperate.
At 49 years old, I didn't expect one of my biggest problems this week to be whether my virtual cattle were getting enough nutrition... but here we are.
Life has been a strange mix lately. Health wobbles, football heartbreak, long-awaited answers, giant rodents, sad moments for wildlife, and a growing appreciation for virtual farming. Somehow, it all balances out.
Hopefully next week's Brock Log will include Scotland making history... and if not, at least my cows should be happy.
Until next time, look after yourselves... and if you're driving through the countryside, keep an eye out for the wildlife.