Creative Days, Passion Project excitement & Valentie's Celebrations!

Hello world! Welcome back to another blog, and the week of Valentine’s Day. This week was a creative one to say the least. These included a creative few days with NYT, a audition for a passion project, and spending Valentine’s Day in my own unique way. So without further ado, here is what I got up to on the week commencing 9th February 2026:

Professional:

Online Casting Day:

This week I had my online casting day with The National Youth Theatre. This was a brilliant day, from text work, to devising, the day had everything. When it came to performing my speech, I felt like I did well. I missed one line on the first run and stumbled abit on the second run, but I carried on. That’s the important thing is I guess, how you come back from a stumble. For me personally, regardless if I get through to the next round of their training programme, I’m proud of myself for kicking myself back up.

Digital Storytelling Workshop:

This week I also took part in a digital storytelling workshop led by NYT alumni Sophie Ellerby. I attended one of these sessions before, so I knew I was going to enjoy this one. And I was right, and it gave me newfound inspiration to go back to my script I did with another NYT workshop. Whether it’s used for Storyfest or just for my own creative juices, this workshop was definitely enjoyable to do. And it gave me some new ways to actually generate ideas and also think more about the character descriptions.

Applying for Jobs:

This week I applied for more jobs as usual. I'll tie it into the next section which is "Self-tapes", but let's just say I also had difficulty keeping up to date with what I want to apply for and what is expired. But at least I did my productivity from my end, and I'll mention in the next section now some of these opportunities.

Self-tapes: 

I managed to film a few self-tapes for some jobs I applied for. One of them expired by the time I was submitting it which was obviously very annoying, but I managed to get one for a project that’s close to my heart. And that’s a bonus I guess, as it’s moments like this where something better comes along. 

Act On This:

This week I listened to the quarterly Act On This Answers session. This was a VERY long one, so I had to split it into two parts. I got some very valuable information, including what success means for me, why going back on old sessions can benefit you after they mentioned a community member doing it and the benefits it brought him, and a method on labelling Spotlight clips using ChatGPT. I won’t reveal it on here as I don’t want to spoil it, but let’s say it was a very valuable session indeed. 

Coronation Street:

This week I watched the show for 4th, 6th and 9th February. It all started with Debbie being on a cleaning fee she and accidentally calling Ronnie Ray. We then saw Kevin reflecting and Jack confiding in Debbie about Kevin, and encouraged him to show how much he loved him. At the garage, Brian was asking if he can sort a car for his walking group, claiming he’s busy and getting frustrated with a hole in the ceiling. Things soon turned concerning when Kevin was found on the ceiling throwing beer cans and glasses, whilst Brian, Sally and Tim try to get him to come down, whilst he contemplates on life. It then got  Abi coming to see Kevin whilst brian blames himself. The former couple were then talking about their marriage before Carl came along, and how the impact of Sebs death caused a friction. He then stated how he can deal with the change, for jack and Debbie’s sake. It then got him asking Abi to come back to the garage and apologised to Jack, who understood why he was like it, and wanting to move back in. And rightly so, as there was more drama to come. And that all started with Nina telling Carl about how Debbie deserves it, and Ronnie confiding in him about the situation and the impact it’ll have on her. Carl was then claiming he’ll fix it, leaving Ronnie confused, asking Debbie about it. It then got Carl revealing what happened at the crash, with Debbie revealing she knew and also revealed that she’s his mother. Debbie then revealed what happened in their past, convincing him that her dad and Elaine did a good job, but Carl being convinced there was something wrong with him. Carl was then reflecting on a past birthday, and Debbie convinced that going to prison will put things right, not wanting to suffer, but he then decided not wanting to go to the police. 6th saw Summer telling Todd about going to the hearing for closure and justice, with him worried it’s a bad idea and wanting her to concentrate on the future, and whilst Summer was doing the task of getting the shopping, she soon changed her mind whilst Todd rings Theo (and more on that in a moment). Before her trial, Debbie was giving a run down to Raphael and Ryan, with him double checking he’s the boss, and Ronnie questioning her about Carl “fixing things” and getting a key from Carl to their flat. Debbie was then begging for Carl to come to court, insisting she didn’t hurt him on purpose, and with Nina clearly stating her opinion, Carl breaks ties with Debbie completely. But that didn’t stop everyone arriving in court to support Debbie, and Ryan coming as well. And it then led Debbie being sentenced for 2 years and 8 months, and in the cafe, Sally, Bernie and Christine talking about it, thinking they’d use the dementia card, with Summer and Todd coming in and asking got a coffee, with the girls coming in to chat about Mal (and I’ll mention why in a moment), with Abi coming in to reveal the sentence. If then prompted Summer in lashing out again and Debbie going into her cell, and getting overwhelmed. Carl also found out about Debbie’s sentencing, with Ronnie that the reason he didn’t come  is because of Ryan, only to be interrupted by a call about Debbie having another TIA, with Carl feeling guilty. Everyone was then talking about Debbie in the pub, Carl feeling the strain whilst she was waking up in hospital. Elsewhere, Shona was complaining about the clothes whilst Tim comes for Jodie, and Shona revealing a lead on her dad David wondering if it’s a good idea, leading to a disagreement viewed by Todd who senses jealousy whilst summer got some milk. And Sarah was checking in on David and inviting him for a coffee, making him see he needs to take care of himself. Sarah also had other concerns, as whilst she was updating Todd on Harry’s sponsored walk, he lost temper, sparking concern. Jodie was then returning home with a box of stuff, followed by David and Sarah finding the reason “why Todd was upset” and updating her on Debbie and Todd. And for Bernie, she was feeling the strain at the cafe, with Mal offering to help, and Bernie sharing her worries on Debbie and Mal revealing Mals son also been in that position. And 9th saw Shona talking about Doug again, thinking that David is not interested, and Jodie leaving raised her suspicions, so decided to follow her. Whilst Shona was spying on her, she was interrupted by Ryan and Dev’s choice of flowers, she manages to catch her. She was then asking Jodie if she saw Carl again, but her making out it’s a man called John, claiming she didn’t tell her due to embarrassment. It then got her asking Gemma about the name, promoting her to go find her. It was then revealed that Jodie was at her dads bedside and Shona finding her, then asking her what happened and how he started since she left. But he was soon having a bad spell, and asking if past arguments were related to being ill, and Jodie revealed she still looks up to her and Shona reassuring her she has her back. Jodie then said a final goodbye to her dad, claiming. she has Shona and the family. Meanwhile, Ryan, Sarah and Bernie were talking about Debbie’s recovery, and Ryan gave Mal a funny l following their hotel shenanigans, asking him not to tell anyone and keeping her updated on Debbie. I can also imagine Gemma’s shock when Bernie revealed she and Mal kissed and also stated that he’s working in Roy’s electrics. And Dev ended up surprising Bernie with flowers (which was what he was asking Shona earlier), but Bernie soon revealed what she did on the day of the funeral, but only half of the truth, making Dev furious after what happened to Asha. Ronnie was then visiting Debbie and finding the humour in a wheelchair, but then left to see Adam to work on the appeal, and revealing her inmate to help her is Lou. She and Debbie were talking about life before prison, with Lou later on asking about the children after Debbie brought them up. We also saw Sarah talking to George about Todd and how he’s acting, promising her to have a word. It then got George, Christina and Sarah wanting to treat Todd to a takeaway, accepting the offer.  

Hollyoaks:

This week saw a teen going into a new profession after a first hand experience last week, a new proposal and a Brookside residents scheme being exposed. Mondays addition saw Rex hungover from last well, and Froggy apologised for giving him bad advice on grieving for the Black patriarch. And Ste proposing to him didn’t come at the best of timing, as Froggy and Rex scattered her ashes (which was humorous at once point when the scattering didn’t go to plan). And Froggy said some wise words that made rex accept Ste’s proposal, but there is still a long journey to go for Rex when Ro spots him with a female top. And speaking of Ro, his decision to be a mechanic didn’t go down well with Diane, and she was adamant that it was nothing to go with him being transgender when Ant grilled her about it. John Paul is also on edge after being roped into Smithy’s drug plot, blaming himself for not seeing his true colours sooner and grilling Prince on a key to the classroom they did it. And after narrowly avoiding Nancy, his luck might run out when a drug is left behind. Mercedes is also settling into rehab and getting on very well with Jake aka jenson. Nikki advices her to focus on her connection with Warren, even though they’re not together, and I thought it was very powerful when she opened up about why she took drugs in the first place and her fear of being sober. Despite inviting Warren to couples therapy, something tells me that her connection with Jake may make things more complicated. And whilst Warren praises Gemma for fixing one of the baby’s teddy, and after Dodger and Theresa go for a drink, for Dodger may have more than a sweet thief to think about when he gets a call about Warren being a suspect. But I have a feeling it may be linked to someone else! And I was right, as Tuesdays episode saw Warren getting arrested for the robbery of a sweet shop. Whilst John Paul and Prince were on edge following waiting for Smithys orders, Gemma was soon to suspect Tinhead, and gave the police a false alibi, which Warren was wondering if it’s a ploy to get her back but clearly it’s not. Tinhead knew he was guilty, as at first he was joking around with Liberty, and after asking Sienna about Cleo, next thing you knew he claims he had to leave town after claiming his ex was willing to give him another chance (which Liberty was very brave in accepting it, and found a negative situation from a positive. Whilst Mercedes and Jenson were getting close following a failed couples therapy (little does she know what really happened), Warren finally found Tinhead after he tried to get Nikki out of rehab. Ro also wanted to get started at the garage, claiming it’s a teacher training day. And whilst he was learning the ropes and showing that Rex can talk to him about anything, Ste came in to discuss about their engagement party. And his argument with Diane about a double booking was short lived when Nancy called to reveal Ro was off sick. I can only imagine her upset when he found out he lied to her. And speaking of jobs, Vicky was wondering about her future, and had an argument with Frankie who reveals about her plans to go to London following a successful dance school application. Gemma offered her services in helping Vicky set up her own business at the salon. I can also imagine her upset where after making up with Frankie, a talent scout called miles Tulip wanted to join a modelling agency. And Dillon was doing everything he could to help Donny with bud pizza business. Finally, Wednesdays addition picked up where we left off from, as Warren was giving Tinhead a piece of his mind. After it calmed down, the two parties separated, with Tinhead revealing to Nikki about why he’s posing as Warren, wanting revenge for what happened back in Brookeside and also to help start a family, and was surprisingly fine when Mercedes revealed about liberty. Outside, Mercedes was adamant that it was that situation where it proved that she and Warren can’t be together, and whilst him getting arrested for being wrongly accused we out of his control, it did make her question her wants and needs for when she leaves, but not revealing anything about Jake aka Jenson. Nikki also broke the news to Tinhead about staying in rehab, wanting to finish the programme before she can get back with him. He mentioned before he left how dangerous Jenson is but also gained her support knowing that they need to be in the right frame of mind. And whilst chatting about if Mercedes is better off without Warren, news of “Jake” going is bound to end up nasty. Elsewhere, Rex was right to let Diane give Ro a chance to show what he can do, providing he doesn’t skive from school. And I have a feeling a friendship is about to grow between the two when Ro spots him in female clothes. And Rex and Ste may be in a war of the engagement parties, as after comforting liberty following her breakup with Tinhead, Pearl managed to believe his lie about a double booking. It was then followed by Ste handing out leaflets about having their party at the dog, and whilst it made Pearl furious, he and Dillon were able to put the past behind them, and offered pizzas from their new business to go with it. But Dillon had other concerns when Vicky decides to go for the modelling agency (and for good reason given what the trend went through). And I can only imagine Gemma’s frustration when explaining to Misbah why she wants to help Vicky with the salon, only to have her turned down. 

Eastenders:

This week saw a life changing diagnosis, the bullying one child being revealed, and a realisation on who actually killed Anthony. Mondays episode saw Nugget learning how to drive in the new car. I could sense that something was wrong when he was snapping at Avani and Priya but he kept blanking out. And Ravi going on a job, only to find Mark being there didn’t help (and Phil mentioning ravi’s previous involvement in getting Harry and Kojo working for him). I have a feeling that what happened to Nugget next may be linked to his attack when he starts having a seizure. Elsewhere, Phil was feeling the stress when it came to checking in on Nigels wellbeing, and bless Lexi, who hates seeing her grandad in distress. But with the help of Callum, she him and Billy offered their services, and Phil was grateful in his own Phil Mitchell way. Linda was also concerned for Ollie when it’s revealed he’s getting bullied again, and Elaine’s advice may be abit much, but Max was actually right into standing up for himself. Bea also convinced Honey to request compensation from Suki following her accident at work, but it didn’t go to plan when Suki reveals she’s got her lawyer in place, firing them both in the process. I have a feeling that it’s going to be a Mitchell vs Panaser eat taking place. And whilst Alfie was applying for a visa to see Spencer, Kat needed to find Jake, who visited Zoe in prison and doesn’t want to get himself involved. She then sought help from Vicki, who once hating Zoe, saw everything in a new light, whilst talking about life following Joel’s court hearing. Whilst they managed to find Jake’s boat and the suitcases, I can’t wait to see their confrontation, and I won’t have to wait that long! As Tuesdays episode saw Vicki and Kat finding Jake after a joke around on his boat. Kat then made out a lie linking to alfie to come back, and it seemed to have worked, leading to the cousins then having an honest chat about the past, and begging him to stay after Kat told him the extent of Zoe’s situation. We also saw Nugget getting rushed to hospital, with Linda offering her support. It was then revealed that he’s referred to for an urgent assessment for epilepsy, stating that the head injury definitely may definitely impacted it. Ravi in particular is also feeling the affect, knowing that him getting drugged caused his original head injury. And after Chelsea got harassed by a group of customers, Ravi and Mark got involved to let out his anger, with Mark showing his support (which was slowly revealing to Vicky he’s staying in Walford). He then made out that the guy who beat up Nugget also caught him after he took a beating from the men at Harry’s Barn. Earlier on, Suki urged Priya to stand her ground, and it got Ravi revealing his work as an informant. Meanwhile, Honey was worried about her job, and made out to Vinny that the community will take a stand on suing the Mini Mart. Penny urged Vinny to give Honey compensation, for Nuggets sake, and gave her job back, but I have a feeling Bea will have another trick up her sleeve after he reveals she won’t be getting her job back. Max was also shocked to find out that Louie is Ollie’s bully, but kept the truth from Linda. And I have a feeling things may get awkward when Elaine spots the parents of Annie getting close, and made her feelings of Max clear. And Billy and Callum were able to reassure Lexi after she got a letter from Jay to reveal he’s expecting a child with his new fiancée. Wednesdays episode saw Priya willing to leave Ravi after discovering his new job as an informant. But that needed to wait, as Nugget had another seizure, with the doctor confirming that it will most likely be epilepsy, and bless him for being emotional, as I was the same when I first got diagnosed with it. After finding out Mark is part of the gang Ravi is hunting down, Priya decided to sort the situation out himself after Ravi revealed he can’t get out of it, meeting Mark and Vicki in The Vic. Elsewhere, Jake went to see Phil after feeling guilty over Danny. After chatting openly and Phil stating that running away from the past is not the best idea, Jake decided to stay and help Kat and Alfie track Chrissie down. He then made out to Alfie that he should’ve been there more for his family when asking a question that got him suspicious, and whilst feeling guilty when Alfie looked at some old photos, jakes text to Chrissie did the trick. Max was also in a spot of bother when Ollie stated he was being bullied again, and tried to convince Lauren and Peter it was Louie following the last episode. They soon discovered he was right when Louie frantically admitted it and explained how he thinks they love Jimmy more than him (which is a common explanation as to why bullies become bullies). I can’t help but wonder that Bea will cause trouble after overhearing max and Lauren taking about Linda, who Bea claims to kick them out (in which Honey offered her to stay at theirs whilst she and Billy are away), but Max knew it wasn’t the case. And following a passionate encounter with Linda, things are about to get more complicated. Finally, Thursdays episode saw a feud between Peacock and Beale start once again. It all started when Bea let slip to Elaine about Louie being Ollie’s bully, with Elaine reporting it back to Linda and confronting Max. Linda then found out that Max told Lauren not to tell her, and it all decended when Elaine tried to make Louie have a taste of his own medicine. For obvious reasons Ollie wasn’t happy to see his gran get violent, and Linda was furious as she specifically told her it to fight her battles. I know as well that tension is now in the air when Ian called the police. Elsewhere, Kat was adamant to Alfie that things Will be sorted whilst he’s away to see Spencer. And the plan to get Chrissie to expose her crimes didn’t go to plan when Jake fell for her charm. He was then adamant in staying in Walford, after mentioning about forming a bond with Alfie. And an honest chat between Kat and Chrissie then revealed that Jasmine could’ve killed Anthony, with her mentioning why she would kill Anthony and not Zoe.  

Runaway:

This week I watched the rest of the brilliant thriller based on the book by Harlan Coben. Episode 7: “Sliding Doors”, saw Three weeks earlier, with Adiona spying on Dee Dee and visiting a man called Nathan, giving him a pre warning, but refused to believe her. In the present, Dee Dee and Ash were burying elenas body, and ash suggested to find somewhere else after nearly getting caught. She then got a text from Simon Greene on his phone, finding the video of Simon beating Aaron. They were then changing the number plates whilst Ash read the note again from mother Adiona. Meanwhile, Simon was meeting a man called Randy about the DNA test, begging for the truth just incase he was lying, but the test did confirm that Paige is his daughter. Dee Dee and Ash were then discussing the next plan and suggested what to reply, and Dee Dee made a decision to get Simon on the list, which Ash had some unease about. But I think they were about to be rumbled when Simon noticed something off after the text, calling Lou, who also suspected her worries. Lou was then explaining what happened and how something was not right, explaining their row. We then saw Simon coming back to the hospital where Dan and Anya asked about the professor, where he was about to reveal everything, only to be interrupted by Cornelius who mentioned about Rocco and Luther wanting to see him and wanting 10k each. Ash and Dee Dee meanwhile we’re searching up Simon, and ash not liking her attitude and breaking the rules, testing their friendship. Whilst Ruby was explaining to Isaac about Doug Mulzer and his alibi, Lou came in to report a missing person. She then showed Ruby and Isaac a list of half brothers and explaining her plans, revealing the real Stephanie is in Brazil and revealed Henry and Paige’s connection. We then saw Ruby and Isaac going to see Sebastian, who revealed a letter from a woman called Victoria to meet at “the lookout”, with ruby recognising the place and Seb adamant he has no idea. Whilst that was going on, Simon and Cornelius were asking Yvonne for the money and Rocco getting a text to say that Luther is missing. At “The Lookout”, Isaac and Ruby were keeping an eye on the couples and joked about going into the modern world, whilst Isaac spotted the waitress, suspecting it to be Victoria. At a cafe, Dee Dee and Ash were talking about life and their childhood, and Ash revealed the note from Mother Adiona, revealing that one man on the list may be her son. Dee Dee then revealed how the system works and why they killed these people, linking it to the adoption. We then flipped between the two scenarios, as Ruby and Isaac were talking to Victoria about Henry, who’s actually his mother, whilst it was revealed that Alison mayflower was linked to the shining truth. Dee Dee being was convinced it’s religion whilst Victoria revealed that someone lied to her about Henry’s death, and revealed the link to the beacon of the shining truth and explained why she kept things offline. Ash was also querying Dee Dee about what they get out of it all, claiming it’s not her personality, whilst getting a message about Simon. Whilst Ruby was asking Simon about Paige being connected to the shining truth, Dee Dee stated that she didn’t need to go back after the job. Back at the hospital, Anya was talking to Ingrid whilst Yvonne complimented Simon on her and Sam, and revealed to her about Paiges ordeal. But I could understand him being furious when he found out Yvonne knew about it followed by Ingrid knowing too. Ash and Dee Dee were then heading to the estate to find Aaron, only to discover that Aaron was already dead, and spotting simon, who said that Rocco wants to meet in the basement. Simon was adamant about wanting information about Paige going to Brackmere by bus and finding out cornelius shooting Luther. It then was chaos when Ash and Cornelius getting shot, with Ash getting killed and Cornelius seriously injured, causing Dee Dee to go on a rampage, and Simon was shot by Dee Dee but was killed by mother Adiona whilst Ruby and Isaac were heading to the shining truth. Finally, the final episode aka Episode 8: “It Stays With Us”, saw Simon and Cornelius getting rushed to hospital, asking to pass on a message to Isaac, who explained about the place and the danger of the place. It then got the police looking for Caspar Vartage, and searching the place but had no success of him. Isaac then found a secret entrance to find Caspar aka “The One” getting kidnapped, but revealed his cancer diagnosis, but stopped him in time from doing something stupid. Ruby then reported to having no sign of Paige, with one member stating that a new girl arrived in a “container”, finding a girl called Eve but her birth name being Zara. We then saw Isaac visiting Simon in hospital, telling about his no success of Paige, and revealed if Aaron’s connected to the shining truth . A flashback then saw Simon having Adonia coming in and also asked about Elena, and apologised to Simon for misjudging him, begging him to find Paige. Adonia in the flashback was also revealing of her connection to the shining truth and revealed Nathan from the past episode, but telling her it’s not over. Simon was then visiting Ingrid, being reminded about Luther shooting her whilst some time later, fully recovered, he asked around for Paige, whilst Isaac confirmed to Ruby that the body is Elena, with Lou and Simon finding out the news. Simon then had the shock of his life when he saw Paige at Ingrids bedside, sharing an emotional reunion, but had to go due to needing to work on being clean but was updated by her counsellor. Paige was then explaining the night Aaron died and said she went before, with Ingrid revealing she also went to rehab and took her to the same place she went to, with Paige telling her not to tell him in fear of disappointment. Simon praised Paige for doing the right thing, and revealed she went to Sam after Aaron got jealous of Henry, and Simon pointing out that Dee Dee and ash were already there when Simon arrived, and after the mention of Cornelius, she killed Aaron out of self defence, but actually went to Ingrid to help, and went to Aaron’s caravan to hide out, and revealed Ingrid killed Aaron out of protection. Simon promised her to keep it between them, which then led to a montage of Ingrid waking from her coma followed by elenas funeral, with Lou giving a eulogy, and. Paige returning home from rehab. The aftermath dad Simon and Ingrid going to the place Simon went viral, followed by revealing to her he knew about Aaron and explained why she did it, copying a tactic another murderer used, and how not telling Simon was the only way to make her go. Ingrid then revealed the night of the murder, with Luther spotting her (which was the reason why she was shot), and promising not to have any. It then got Simon visiting Yvonne’s for some photos, and finds something suspicious. Back at home, he then asked Paige about them, recapping the surroundings in the flat like the single beds, and also about Doug Mulzer. It was then revealed that Aaron is her half brother, and Ingrid was a part of the shining truth, which was the reason why she went to rehab after thinking it was a stillborn. Paige was then explaining how it impacted her life and how she got hooked into drugs, wanting revenge and asked Ingrid about it, which linked to a past argument, begging him not to tell her. All I can say is, life won’t ever be the same again during a family dinner seeing everyone happy whilst Simon is secretly furious 

Waterloo Road:

This week I was watched the last few episodes of the classic drama set in Manchester. Darius was making his debut as headmaster clear, with Nisha asking about the scan, and he was revealing about his flat. Ben was also looking after Stella, who appreciated the help whilst she reveals about losing her pension and telling him not to worry about her. During the brief, we saw Coral coming back in from maternity leave, showing Val pictures of George. But the mood was soon sour when Steph came back, causing tension with Neil and Coral already, but was praised Donte and revealing she has an interview. It was followed by Nisha revealing that Stella is still ill, with Darius taking over in the briefing. There also more drama to come though (and I’ll reveal it later on). In the school, whilst Cat was worrying about a presentation, Shola showed pics of Ashton and her, talking about her upcoming shoot. But it was also upsetting to watch, as whilst Shola was getting ready for her shoot but soon left after the makeup artist refused to give her a different shade. She was the. confiding in Val, who told her the makeup artist is the problem, and how she did her own hair and makeup during her music days. This tjen prompted Shola telling Ashton about asking her agents of her requirements, which she was okay with, whilst asking him out. Elsewhere, Mitch was warning Cat about the police coming back, wondering why they want to look at statement again. It then got her wondering why she’s being interviewed, thinking they don’t believe Portia, reporting back to Shola Izzy and Mog about it, with Portia overhearing her, causing her to push them away. Later on, Izzy’s presentation was then interrupted by Steph’s students, which then led to coral revealing that she’s the person to interview her. We then saw Cat giving her own presentation, but was mocked by Portia, causing her to walk out. At break, Izzy was asking Cat why she got overwhelmed, reminding her that Portia is just taking it out on her, not blaming her, linking it to a lesson she learnt in family therapy, in which Cat revealed it could be triggered by Neil and her mums breakup. We then saw Portia apologising to Cat for her behaviour and her exam, and vice versa, with Portia not wanting to talk about it, but everyone offering their support. At one point in the episode, we saw Steph getting interviewed, but was grilled her about her recent lesson and Neil, and I have a feeling we could see a war between the teachers. Donte was also tested tk his limits, as Forest was being cheeky with him and using his Asthma as an excuse, but knew something was wrong. He was then confiding in Neil about Forest, who encourages him to show them who’s boss, and did just that, showing appreciation from the students. But his idea to have Forest being referee soon turned into a disaster causing an argument between him and Declan. We then saw Donte and Steph confiding in their issues, with Donte telling Steph not to get on the wrong side of Coral, and how being stricter at Forest made things worse, Steph told him to simply be himself. Donte was then talking to Coral about Steph, but other than a experience where it was his fault, spoke nothing but good things, with one piece of advice from steph being the better one than Neil’s. Following steph’s advice, Donte was setting the students a challenge in detention. But there was drama in the teaching side as well. It all started with Serena-Michelle coming in about the merger, bringing in jack Rimmer to help out. Due made it clear abo it keeping Jack away from pupils, whilst updating him regularly with a breathalyser and revealed  he knew the school, wanting to apologise. Darius and jack were then talking, admitting he’s responsible for his relapse and wanting a clean slate for the sake of the school. We then saw Serena Michelle talking to the mergers about why it’s a good idea, and Jack talking got Darius annoyed, and taking control of the meeting. We then saw Steph meeting Jack who’s her sponsor, revealing she too had suspicions on Darius, stating he’s none of his concern. The real drama kicked off when Wendy revealed she had to lie about a financial report after finding the money for the SEN unit going missing, with her asking Joe about it. All of this happened whilst Stella went to her appointment where all is well, but the results of ketamine got her suspicious. Meanwhile, Darius and Nisha were on their way to meet his dad Jimmy after going to their scan, and Jimmy got in a mood with him and revealed that Darius never had a sister, speaking concern from Nisha. Whilst Ben was talking about Shola to Ashton, Stella asked about the Ketamine, and was soon interrupted by jack whilst Mitch got questioned about the funds going missing, but revealing Stella cancelled the multiple meeting, with Wendy m finding Stella’s signature. Jack was then telling Stella about the merger which she heard nothing about, which got her wondering. Whilst Wendy and joe were questioning her ability, and stating she’s affected by the pension funds, Serena Michelle was needing the report, Jack revealed what happened in the last series and how Darius left him the whisky. She then realised that Darius may have drugged her and jack decided to take action. Whilst Nisha was questioning Darius, Stella talked to Serena Michelle about the money, and Stella getting interviewed by the police, getting arrested as a result. Jack was then warning Serena Michelle about the situation. At the pub, all the teachers were reflecting on the day and how it doesn’t seem right whilst Darius tells them of their baby news. It was then followed by Neil standing up for Coral when Steph backchats her, with the teachers finding it funny. Coral then revealed that Steph was welcome to join the school whilst Jack told Steph about finding Darius, revealing he took the money and drugged Stella, overheard by Nisha. For the final episode, where everyone was getting ready and excited for prom, I will explain what happened before and during prom in two different sections. Whilst the preparations were taking place, Darius told Nisha about the interview, and her warning him on people wondering if he took advantage of Stella, still feeling uneasy following the last episode. If then led to Jack seeing stella, and Ben overhearing their conversation, clearly not happy. It’s a good job jack was there to gain her support, as the teachers were discussing her whilst Darius reveals about his possible role as head. Mitch and Val were also having different opinions whilst Nisha felt uneasy. It then led to her sneaking into the head office only to be caught by Darius, making out she needs figures for year 8. She was then grilling him on where the money really came from, and made out it was his mothers sister, not his dad. She then apologised, which got him to give her his password, and he soon got pushed to breaking point. The situation on Ben also had a bad y on him, as he was late for class and when Ashton was checking in on him, it caused him to lose his temper, and revealing about him drugging Stella which secretly got her more suspicious. Ben asking Wendy for some photos when really he was trying to drug Darius himself (which was why he got some from Beamer), whilst Nisha queried Stella about them, seeing she got him wrapped around his finger and telling her to be careful. Wendy was then informing Darius about his interview whilst he drinks from the coffee Ben drugged him, and whilst Serena Michelle was interviewing him, he was clearly high and I found it quite entertaining personally. But a question about her and jack Rimmer got her over the edge, with Nisha then taking revenge and grilling him about Stella, revealing about the drugs, the money, and how she got evidence using the password he gave her. But more on that during the duration of prom. We also saw Portia still struggling whilst Agnes mocks Schuey about Portia wanting to go to prom, which he now realised, and her getting him to look out for each other. It also prompted Agnes to think about making things right with Leoni. Whilst Beamer was selling Ben drugs (which is for a good reason), Schuey was wanting to get Portia to come to prom to not miss out whilst Agned apologised to Leoni, not being there yet but it’s a start. It was also e fay the Noel and Stace’s wedding, with having a mask to joke about bride tradition, whilst Libby, Aleena and Lois help her get ready. And whilst Aleena getting the same lashes as Izzy (which I’ll mention in the next section), and whilst she gets her own lashes, the girls discuss her probably missing prom, which didn’t go down well with her along with the dress being ruined. The girls were then apologising to Stace and Noel revealing what the big day is really about, making an “alteration to the dress”. The wedding taking place with Noel’s nan wishing him luck, and with it going well except her feisty side, with Noel liking it but decided to go to prom in the end. There was also trouble between friendships, as Shola was feeling uneasy about Ashton being her date to prom, whilst Mog mocks Izzy about her eyelashes, and whilst asking about dates, Tonya returns. Tonya was asking Ashton about prom, and revealed that she needed space after everything that’s happened, and Ashton soon revealed he was seeing someone. The girls were then talking about “the other woman” whilst Mog secretly wanted someone to go to prom. Whilst Tonya was reassuring her about not having a date, Shola felt the guilt, and eventually revealed the truth that it was her. She was then apologising to Tonya and after questioning her motives, she told her to dump Ashton if she means what she says. And a big surprise was about to be ruined as whilst Freddie was telling mog a story, it got Luca suspicious. They then increased when he saw Izzy learning BSL and got him questioning Freddie, a revealing that a big gesture would make him cringe. I then got Freddie understandably disappointed, and his BSL interpreter being in on it. Prom saw everyone getting ready and dancing the night away, with the girls appreciating Mogs eyelashes and getting a date to prom and seeing Shola and Ashton. But Darius was clearly on edge, and whilst Ben was apologising to Ashton, he then rings Stella about him. After Stella came to ask Ben, wage eventually found Darius and grilled him from her experience, and revealed she also knew about Hope, with Jack coming in to stop her. It then got him and Darius talking, convincing him that if he loves Nisha and the baby he’ll get help, shortly by getting arrested. We also saw Luca finding out from his interpreter Freddie’s surprise, initially suggesting it was cringe, but when she explained why Freddie wanted to do it, decided to go ahead with it and more on that in a moment. Coral was checking in to make sure no one got into whilst Schuey apologises to Portia. Agnes revealing Portias prom dress was hers. We also saw Shola apologising to Tonya, who insisted to go with Ashton, whilst Donte comforted Tonya and wishing she had a dad like him, which was a lovely moment. It’s a shame she didn’t go to prom, but I guess after everything that’s happened, going in the wrong mindset is not the best idea. And if I had to choose between not going and going in a bad mindset, I would do the same thing. And everyone was in for the surprise of their life after Coral asking about the flash mob whilst Freddie was asking for Luca. It then went ahead, with it being favourite moment was the flash mob having a success, with Luca and Freddie kissing at the end. The slow dance surprised Neil after seeing Izzy and Cat dance together, but if him and Donte see them happy, they’re also happy, whilst also making a joke out of it. Stella also came in and Donte was apologising to jack, who stated that it’s the wake-up call he needed. The episode ended with Stace and Noel coming to prom after Aleena, Lois and Libby questioned their decision, with Stella thanking jack, who then suggests to let Ben off knowing that without him, Darius would’ve gotten away with it, and everyone dancing the night away.

After The Flood:

This week I also watched the rest of the second series of the drama starring Sophie Rundle, with one moment which I wasn’t expecting. Episode 5 saw Sam and Jo talking about Donna, revealing Layal never heard of her. Donna was then being questioned on Xav, denying her involvement. Jo was also surprised when finding out Sam didn’t go home, and soon got suspicious when she spots Mackie. Whilst at his house, she reported it back to Pat whilst talking about Saskia bale, and Pat finding a lead, and the two of them having a moment before being interrupted by Eve. Although Jo made it out to Molly that she stayed at the office, with her questioning about the case, and her frustration of not getting the water tested, and sook teased her Pat after she then revealed where she really was. Mackie was then seen meeting Sarah and getting her to talk to Saskia, but despite not being keen on the idea, did it anyway. Jack was apologising to Molly, and got him to test the water as a way to make it up to her. After Sam was updating jo on Donna, whilst being spotted by Mackie, Donna was then getting questioned again and revealed of Xav's and Harriet’s fling. We then saw Harriet talking about it, and not saying anything because she didn’t think it was that important, and also revealed how she felt used as she revealed Xav's father worked at Aexous, only to be interrupted by Alan coming home and kicking them out. Sam was then suggesting a theory whilst Jo had her suspicions on Mackie coming, who was there to asking Alan for money, but not being able to, causing tension. We then saw Pat going go Saskia’s workplace, and why he wants to talk to her, but agreeing to talk to him, only to be spotted by Sarah and thankfully he didn’t notice. At the station, Tony was asking Molly about Xav whilst waiting for Donna, worried about her well-being, and whilst she was getting worried, Tony revealed he killed Xav (which shocked me as well). Molly was obviously wondering if it’s true, and Jo was going the other way on why it’s Donna, prompting Molly to tell her he knew about Todd beforehand. We then saw Tony getting interviewed, and saw why he came round to her house and keeping Mollys name out of it, adamant it was self defence and recalling the night of what happened. Afterwards, Sam was adamant it was Tony and Jo revealed that Molly knew about Todd and how Jo told her, banning her from the search. Elsewhere, Pat was talking to Saskia, bringing up Lee Ellison and revealing she was in care with him and how he was able to see through Mackie, and Pat revealed that Mackie killed him. Saskia then revealed how Mackie and helped her get into college and made her do morbid stuff, which was why she changed her name and moved away. Pat mentioned about how she can come forward without having to worry through a scheme, with Saskia also giving out other foster kids who Mackie used. Jos commendation was then taking place and Sarah reporting to Mackie that she didn’t speak to her due to boundaries, and requesting a divorce, sending him over the edge. Jack then revealed that the water tests had chemicals from Geoff Dixon farm whilst Molly help Jo change, and Mackie sending a text on Jos phone to Pat. Jo was then wondering if she deserved the award, with Mackie not finding Jo there. getting suspicious. But just as he thought he hasn’t had enough on his plate, Jack was asking about the money with Molly telling him Jo had to go, and jack revealing he’s bent, and also revealed Mackies involvement in Lee ellisons death, with Molly refusing to believe it. We then saw Jo going to the search and finding Declan, with Sam revealing they found the screwdriver tony used. At the place where Pat asked jo to marry him, he got a call from Saskia to reveal the first two people who want to come forward. But the good news was short lived Pat was confronting Mackie, who ended up getting killed as a result, but sneakily hid his phone. It then ended with Jo asking Deepa about Declan and his whereabouts, whilst asking Sophie about the party and Sam spotting them. Finally, Episode 6 aka the last episode, picked up where we left off from, where Jo asks Sophie about Declan and his “bad vibe”, causing concern for Keith and Kelly, with Sam taking over. Jo was then trying to call Molly and finding out about Mackie, clearly being hurt by it. Jack was also recapping the water tests, and finding Finn being let off with the charges dropped. Whilst that was happening, Kelly was complaining whilst Jo finds a camera in Sam’s car, with pictures of Pat. Sam later on revealed that Tony is charged and balsara was being signed off the case, whilst Molly went to Geoff Dixon farm, with Jack getting a text from Jo about Declan, and Molly stated how a letter he found the Friday before which was on the same day of Xav’s death. Deepa was then grilling Jo whilst she gets called to Balsara’s office about the commendation. It was then followed by finding out that Sam claimed to go back to university because of her son, and Jo suspected immediately that something was not right, chasing her and pointing out the right direction to Newcastle. She then revealed she’s anti-corruption and claimed she set up and revealed that they’re looking into mackie, and also revealed about Keith’s involvement. Jo also revealed that Pat lied to her and revealed of Mackie and his killings, whilst that was going on, Jack was trying to get Molly to forgive him whilst he spots something unusual. Jo then talked about Mackies coercive behaviour, and was unsuccessful in finding Pat but showed Sam historical cases, only to find Pats whereabouts via phone tracker. Jo was then calling Kelly, apologising for Keith’s sake and offering to pick up Eve, and little knowing of his fate. Molly eventually found Declan, using a stone skimming exercise to help boobs whilst jack spots something. At Pat’s house, Sam tried to convince Jo it’s over, and Jo feeling off about who killed Xav. Sam then gave her another chance, having a theory on Declan running away, Tony’s cancer letter and realising Tony may have been protecting him instead of Donna. She was unable to go to the place Jo and Pat got engaged, but Sam at least offered to look at the files, and her revealing to Molly that Declan may have killed Xav. We then saw Molly using the gentle approach to get Declan to tell the truth of what happened to Xav, and Molly gave him advice on secrets and got him to do the right thing. Jo then arrived to the engagement place whilst Jack goes to see Alan, revealing Mollys findings of chemicals in the river, offering him a deal. During it, Mackie turned up, and making a sob story, and finding Pat and claiming it as suicide. At the Bensons, Alan gave jack his money from uplands, and soon changed plans and threatening Alan to send the photo live, which Alan agreed with on his own terms. The episode ended on a tense note, as Mackie was manipulating jo into thinking the breakdown on their marriage, but she clocked onto something where the tables have turned, finding the tracker on Pats phone and Mackie showing his true colours. All of this happened whilst Declan went to prison whilst everyone finds out about Pats death. 

Personal:

Exercise:

This weeks exercise I feel like I did quite well. As well as my usual gym and yoga, the timings on the bike included 13mins 46secs (roughly) when I got to 10k, doing some extra time to get to 15k, and 13mins 20secs (roughly) when I got to 10k on Saturday and doing some extra to get to 15k. This for me shows that I’m not willing to quite until I reach my goal, even if it means going abit longer. 

Valentine’s Day:

Like last time I spent valentines very single and very much alone, but I made the most of it by having a delicious dinner as seen below and watching KPop Demon Hunters. This wasn’t originally the film I wanted to watch, but I’m glad I did watch it, as not only did it symbolise friendship, but also to accept your flaws and not let the voices in your head take over. And a brilliant way to spend Valentine’s Day. 

Survey:

This week I only did one lot of surveys at the end of the week. But it was on a day where I really needed it, and let’s just say it was the reason why I class it as self care. A truly relaxing way to end the week. 

Cooking:

Because it was the week of love, I decided to make a delicious steak and chips. I haven’t had it in ages, so I feel like it was the perfect dinner.  And it was a hit with the family, which is always great. 

Darts:

This week like the surveys, I only played one match due to my creative commitments. After 14 throws and 9 missed darts I managed to finish on double 7, which after the week I had, I think I needed. 

Premier League of Darts: 

This week saw the tournament go to Antwerp for the first time. Because this country is an hour in front, I only watched the last few bits. But it was great to see Dimitri Van De Bergh talk about how huge having a televised game in his country is so important to him, but ultimately it was Gerwyn Price that took the crown on this night. 

Gladiators:

This weeks addition saw Shaun (who’s father took part in the original gladiators in 1995), and Hinley and Ella and Ciara. It was nice to see Shaun wear the actual jacket his father used on the original series, and it as also amazing to see Ella break the “Collision Record”, and “Everest” really tested the contenders. Hammer made it clear to Shaun that he is not to be messed with, and good on Hinley for beating Viper. Ella was obviously no match for Cyclone, and Ciara really knocked Diamond off her feat. It also hit me how anything can happen on the show, as not one, but two gladiators had to pull out due to injury. Legend was able to be his true self everyone loved, and Diamond suffered a nasty fall during “Powerball” which ended the game. “The Wall” also saw both the male and female contenders managed to outrun the gladiators, and “The Eliminator” saw Ella and Hinley get through. 

Winter Olympics:

This week I watched more of the winter international sports in Italy. My favourite moment had to be Matt Weston winning Great Britain’s first gold medal in the skeleton, and I won’t lie it did give me a tear or two. It was then followed by Huw Knightingale and  Charlotte Banks winning gold in the mixed team snowboard cross, and Matt Wesron and Tabitha Stoeker winning the Mixed Team (with Matt wining two medals and Tabitha winning her first). I wish I could say the same for the rest of the crew, as there have been moments they came so close, but some were out of reach. But I don’t want anyone hating them for not bringing home a medal, as I don’t think people understand the pressure to perform to not only people at the venue of the sport, but on international television as well. If anyone from Team GB are watching this, just so you know, you’ve already done our country proud by being there, and as long as you do your best that’s all you can do. 

The Masked Singer:

This week I watched the final episode of the ultimate guessing game. It had everything, from past winner Samantha Barks on the panel, to “clu-ettes”. I was surprised by some of the results as I thought my favourite would win, but I could see why the masked character that won did. I also loved the audiences faces when Conkers was someone who was already ok the panel this series, and Mayas guest for moth got praised by the rest of the panel. Overall I’m glad I got to watch this brilliant show, and fingers crossed it’ll be back for another series! 

Gogglebox:

There was lots of stuff the Goggleboxers got up to. Amira was sorting out her facial hair, and Ellie was telling Izzi about washing her mucky shoes. Cheé was querying about Andre’s Valentine’s Day breakfast to Sarah, making her feel uncomfortable, and Andrew and Alfie were giving their dog Perkins a funny present. Daniella was blaming Danielle for her cough, and Pete telling Sophie about Jimmy getting star of the day. Finally, Jenny was telling Lee about her hers and Rays cooking and also about dropping, and Jake telling Calum a story about a rubbish car. They also reacted to different stuff on the box set once again. “The Summit” saw an argument about a pair of gloves, and Dockers losing his temper and wanting to eliminate Tom, and “Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly” saw a Labrodoodle being a different dog with the male owner leaves with a simple command and an action doing the trick. “Gladiators” saw Shaun and Hinley being being compared to height waist by the Goggleboxers and seeing them compete in Everest, shocked by Hinley defeating Viper, which was then followed by turning into “Bridgerton”, seeing Benedict finding The Lady In Silver with at first failing, and then soon getting intimate with Sophie, with the Goggleboxers shocked by Benedict’s offer. “Michael McIntyres Big Show” saw Michael surprising Westlife with someone who hasn’t heard of them, and the “BBC News” were talking about Lord Peter Mandelson and his controversial friendship with Jeffery Epstein, with the Goggleboxers having different views and wondered what Kier Starmer said is believable after his past. Finally, another section of the “BBC News” at lunchtime showed some food from the past, bringing back memories for the Goggleboxers, “Guy Martins House Without Bills” witnessed if they can save know on the drafts. 

Challenges & How I Overcame Them:

Some of the challenges I faced this week included a panic getting my prescription. After reading a link to a review of November I was in full on panic mode trying to get it sorted. Eventually I did, but at least I had some spare just incase it did take longer. I was also in abit of a dull mood as Valentine’s Day is not my time of year for obvious reasons. But I decided to turn it into a positive by celebrating it in my own way (which is seen under “Valentines day”), but to also make something creative out of it. Please see the link below to see a video and a blog of a couple of lightbulb moments I had, which changed the way I come across romance.

Blog: https://www.theautisticactress.com/post/valentine-s-day-2026-the-lightbulb-moments-that-changed-my-view-of-romance

Video: https://youtu.be/2I4wT31L9tg?si=NCHgSaUnHXW2muPS

I also didn’t go to my acting class because of my NYT commitments, and that’s okay, as sometimes I need to spread my wings to explore other areas from different people. My lack of sleep was also something that I struggled with, so I’m hoping it’ll improve going into this week. 

What have I learnt this week? When it comes to writing, I need to banish the perfectionism. As that is the hardest part of writing, and I'll definitely take it with me going forward in the future.

See you soon for another blog. Until next time…

This is The Autistic Actress signing off :)