The Diary Game [07/03/2026] // Umbrella in the Farm and Football at Night.

Hi guys, accept special Steem greetings from the motherland of Cameroon and welcome to my blog where I share my daily lifestyle content with you all.

This morning started earlier than I would have liked, but that is the rhythm of life around here. The children needed breakfast before the day could properly begin. I woke up while the air was still cool and quiet, the kind of calm that usually follows a rough night. The winds last night were fierce, rattling roofs and bending trees in ways that made sleep uneasy. As I stepped outside briefly, I could already see the signs, leaves scattered everywhere and branches resting in places they did not belong.

I quickly got to work in the kitchen, preparing breakfast for the kids. The smell of food slowly filled the house, and before long the children were awake, their sleepy faces brightening when they realized breakfast was ready. Watching them eat always gives me a sense of peace. No matter how unpredictable life may be, these simple routines keep everything grounded.

While they ate, I kept thinking about what the wind might have done to the farms overnight. My neighbour’s plantains were already leaning badly before the storm, and I had a strong feeling the wind might have finished the job. After the children were settled, I decided to head to the farm and see things for myself.

^{In the farm with an umbrella because of scorching sun.}

By the time I started the walk, the sun had already begun its climb. And that is something I truly dislike going to the farm when the sun is already up. The heat becomes unforgiving, and every step feels heavier than it should. I prefer those early morning hours when the air is gentle and the land still feels rested.

Sure enough, when I reached the area near my neighbour’s farm, I saw the damage. Several of the plantain trees had been brought down by the strong winds. Their large leaves were spread across the ground like fallen flags after a storm. It was a sad sight, but not entirely surprising after the night we had.

When I got to my own farm, another problem greeted me. Everywhere had become bushy. The grass and weeds seemed to have taken advantage of the recent rains and had grown wildly. Looking around, I realized I had not come prepared for any serious work. No tools, no real plan, just curiosity to check the condition of things. For a moment I considered clearing a small portion, but the sun quickly reminded me that it was not the day for that kind of effort.

^{The plantain brought down by the wind.}

Thank God I had carried my umbrella. Without it, the sun would have been unbearable. Even with the little shade it provided, the heat pressed down heavily, making it clear that my visit would be brief. After walking around a bit and confirming that nothing too disastrous had happened on my own side, I decided it was best to return home.

Back at the house, I shifted into a more manageable rhythm for the day. I started with laundry and some general cleaning. There is something satisfying about seeing the house gradually become neat again. The chores passed the time well enough, and soon the morning heat began to soften slightly.

Later in the afternoon, I stepped outside and harvested a few fresh mangoes. They were perfectly ripe, their bright color promising sweetness. Eating them was refreshing, especially after the long, hot walk earlier in the day. The juice was cool and sweet, exactly what my body needed.

^{Fresh mango harvested from the tree.}

After enjoying the mangoes, I prepared some huckleberries that I would use the next day to cook fufu corn. Getting things ready ahead of time always makes the following day smoother.

^{Huckleberry to be cooked the next day.}

Eventually, I took a cold bath, which felt like the greatest reward after enduring the scorching sun. Clean, refreshed, and finally relaxed, it was time for some entertainment.

The FA Cup quarter finals were on, and what better way to unwind? I started with the Chelsea and Wrexham United game, enjoying the energy of the match. Later, I switched over to watch Manchester City face Newcastle. Football always brings a certain excitement to the house.

Unfortunately, I missed the Arsenal game earlier, but thankfully I was able to catch the highlights later. It was still satisfying to see the key moments.

And just like that, the day slowly came to an end. From windy worries to farm inspections, mango treats, and football excitement, it turned out to be quite a full day. What a way to start the weekend. Until my next diary entry, it is good night from my end.