If you're looking for new things to do as you make the transition from lockdown to socially distanced outings, you've come to the right place. Plus, see how Emma Graham has been spending her lockdown, and meet baby Christopher Alexander Bender!
The University Botanic Garden
The University Botanic Garden is now open everyday from 10am to 6pm, and the Department has a corporate membership which you can use for free, but all entries must be booked in advance for social distancing. Here is what you need to do:
- Select a date on the online booking site - your ticket will be valid for the full day.
- In the booking form, tick the "Friend" box.
- If bringing another friend, you can book as a joint membership booking.
- Remember to bring your Department card when you arrive.
You can also join a virtual weekly wellness walk around the Garden.
Dr Peter Wothers' Open Day Lectures
Peter's very popular and child-friendly Open Day lectures are all available to watch online. Choose from "It's a Gas", "Just Add Water" or 'The Chemistry of Light." It's often difficult to get tickets to see these lectures in person on Chemistry Open Day during the Cambridge Science Festival, so this could be the perfect opportunity to have a fun and entertaining hour with the kids, and even learn a little chemistry!
Pilates with Frances Rennie
Trained Pilates instructor Frances Rennie has been running sessions open to all Department members for over a year now. During the lockdown she has been producing pre-recorded weekly sessions, along with short, live Zoom sessions to keep in touch with class members. "The great thing about this way of exercising is that wherever you are in the country or world, you can join in and stay connected," says Kathleen Pickett, who has helped organise the classes. Each term is six weeks and costs £27 to sign up. The latest term ended on the 8th of July, but Frances is keen to continue, so look out for an email from Kathleen on sign-ups in the autumn. You can find out more about Pilates on Frances' Believe in Pilates website.
Emma's cakes
Up to a year ago, Emma Graham never baked a single thing, but over the past year she started learning, and those of us at coffee time were lucky enough to get to see and sample each new creation. During lockdown Emma decided to go a step further, and she has been taking online courses and tutorials on how to make novelty cakes. She emphasises that she is still a learner, but we think these cakes look amazing!
And finally....who can resist a baby photo?
Andreas Bender has very kindly sent in a photo of his new baby boy, Christopher Alexander Bender, born during lockdown on 4 June. Congratulations to Andreas and his partner!