I'm not sure whether it's something in the air or the water, but over the last few weeks there's been a spate of good news: several of the people I've met during my period of joblessness, who were similarly numbered among the long-term unemployed, have found work. Consequently, there have been quite a few parties in my recent past.

Meanwhile, I'm reminded that my own contract is coming up for renewal as per June 1st, a mere 6 weeks away...and as of yet, I have had no unequivocal statement that my current employers want me to stay on; but equally, I have had no indication that they want me to leave, either. They seem happy with the work I've done so far, and they always knew that 6 months wouldn't be enough to achieve all my goals and targets, so I'm not too worried it won't get extended by at least another 6 months. Then again, you never can tell these days...

I made my singing debut as a soloist during the Easter Vigil, when a crowd of approx. 1,500 people attended Mass -- the church was filled to the rafters, and I wasn't even nervous! Well, maybe just a little bit, when I first stepped out from the rest of the choir (as a tenor, normally my place is safely tucked away in the back row), but I was fine from the moment I hit my first note, and deeply grateful, if a little surprised, for the applause that followed. To be honest, I can't wait to do it again.

Another first for me this Easter was a visit to the Keukenhof, the world's largest flower garden. Located less than 40 kms from where I live, it may seem strange that I'd never been there, but it was just one of those things I'd never got around to before. The colours and variety of tulips was just astounding








though, having been a lifelong fan, I derived most pleasure from the fact I hadn't left it too late to view the narcissi: