Using My Imagination, More Fundraising Prep & Fighting The Fatigue!

Hello world! Welcome back to another blog. This week was a busy one indeed, as this week included looking at Stella Adler's idea of Rules in the world of the character, continuing to do some preparations for my fundraiser, and just getting through the week whilst having a small bout of fatigue. So without further ado, here is what I got up to on the week commencing 12th January 2026!

Acting Class:

This week I did my online acting class where I continued to work on Stella Adler. This week we looked at how Stella told actors to incorporate rules into the character's world, and used the analogy of The Hunger Games as an example (where it's the norm of fighting people to the death) and did scenes where we did set up some rules. It was tricky yes, but I am slowly getting the gist of it. Basically, I need to live in the world as if I was the character, and for "No Country For Old Men", it's set in a world where much like today, killing people is illegal, whereas killing in "The hunger Games" is the norm. This is something to consider and after reading an eBook on stella Adlvr and also possibly recap bits of the recording, I think that's when it'll fully start to sink in. 

Fundraising Material:

I managed to make a note of shows and celebrities to potentially talk about for this week. At the moment I’ve only got the lists down, and I need to make two more choices before I start structuring what I’m going to say. If it comes to it, it may be the luck of the draw, but whoever my final two are, I know they’ll be important for this special week. 

Acting Jobs and Self-tapes:

This week I applied for more acting jobs. And I even managed to film one of the self tapes I got sent via Mandy. To say that I learnt the lines in two days, I’m quite proud of myself. I used the practical aesthetics element to help me with my character and also thought about what happened before that moment and I feel it went to plan. Whether I get it or not is another story, but I can proudly say that I got it done, which is a win in my book. 

Coronation Street:

This week I watched more of the brilliant soap, and with a new format of 30 minutes per episode, it makes things easier to digest. This week I watched the show from 7th, 8th and 12th January. This saw Shona spotting the Teddy whilst seeing Harper and David bumping into Jodie, and whilst they were talking about the next few days, Jodie turned out to be Shona's sister. But after chatting about life, Jodie seemed heartbroken when Shona told her to wait until things settle down. That I do get after everything that happened, but it’s also moments like this where life is too short. The couple were then talking about Jodie and why she turned up now. Jodie then reiterated David’s words about the universe, only to find out she was in the crash too. And Jodie clearly had something going on, as it caused her to having a panic attack following getting lots of messages and voicemails and missed calls, but covered up that it’s linked to the crash. I just say though, it was very kind of David inviting her to stay at the family home, but I know they’ll be more drama when the messages keep coming. Meanwhile, Todd was being wary of Theo, particularly when Summer and George came round to talk about Billy’s tribute and asking if Summer can stay. And of course Theo would be blaming Todd for what happened to Billy, and then following him trying to guilt trip Todd when he said he doesn’t want theo to come to the undertakers. During this, the gang was seen discussing Billy’s funeral with Summer getting overwhelmed and Theo not making things easy, particularly when it came to looking at the photos. I dread to think what he’ll do with them. Another resident in hot water was Carl, who was trying to cover up his evidence whilst Debbie is prepping for her interview, with Carl using her dementia to her advantage again. Kevin bless him is the only one convinced Carl is up to no good, and whilst Nick, Toyah, Maria and Gary talking about the Brest addition to the Platt family and David’s driving, Gary gave the news about Carl deleting the footage. This then led to Tyrone confronting Carl himself, whilst Debbie is interviews and whilst Carl tries to get to Abi, Ronnie heard about denies charges. Michael soon revealed that he made the report but Kevin was not pleased about Carl staying. Soon everyone got talking about Billy’s death and asking Kit about the investigation (who I don’t know how he managed to survive after following John Sugden from Emmerdale). Kevin of course was fed up with not being believed, but Ryan also showed suspicions, with Tyrone furious, but also getting why Kevin did what he did. After looking for the money, Abi did make some statements about Carl's money, pushing his buttons revealing it was Debbie’s money (which I’m not sure I believe). It then led to Debbie revealing she gave Carl some money and it was then followed by Abi revealing about his and James’ affair. Later on, Abi came to see Debbie and told her about the money, then convincing her to get her job at the garage back. Back in the Rovers, everyone was congratulating Theo (little do they know his true colours) whilst talking about Debbie and Ryan expressing his concerns to Kevin. He was right to do so, as Ryan was soon telling Debbie about the money, but Carl managed to flip it round again, but it all got too much for Debbie when Kevin tries to convince her again. But it looks like he may have an ally in Ryan, and I can’t wait to see what they do to expose Carl for who he really is. Elsewhere, Lisa was talking about everything that happened with regards to Becky,, and how Kit pointed out that something was wrong with Carla and Sarah’s help. He also gave Lisa some advice about getting back in Carla’s good books, with Kit also telling Lisa about Bernie whilst Carla shows her gratitude to him for saving her life. Later on, Lisa wanted to properly talk to Carla, mainly about Beckys true colours and also about what was best for Betsy (which I do get to a degree). Although I can understand Carla’s frustration when it came to the visiting order, but good on Lisa for making it clear of her hurt, but of course Becky was trying to flip it. Lisa was then quick to admitting to Carla about what Becky said, with Betsy overbearing everything. Good on the factory gang for telling Betsy to keep positive, and after Carla let her go home early due to not getting enough sleep, soon Betsy was confronting Becky about Mason, kidnapping Carla and not thinking about how bringing down Lisa will affect her. Sydney Martin really brought out her best performance then, and good on Betsy for disowning Becky completely, and soon told everything about it to Lauren. At the station, Lisa trying to plead her case but to her surprise despite having restricted duties, Becky didn’t say anything. I guess Betsy visiting really works, as when it comes to children, it does make you rethink everything. After revealing her whereabouts, Betsy was relieved to hear the outcome and Carla declined staying making out she has work to catch up on. But after seeing spoilers, a reunion may be on the cards for Swarla, I’m just looking forward to seeing how it’ll come about. Finally, it was drama at the Driscolls when Ben found out that Will got a detention, and whilst setting up Bertie birthday, Daniel confided in Megan about it.  inviting her to his birthday and staying over. But she soon got a suspicious call. I wonder what that was all about? 

Hollyoaks:

This week saw two episodes of a couple on the rocks, one resident pushing people away, and one teen making a discovery about his sibling. Mondays addition saw Cleo adjusting to motherhood whilst prepping to move in with Sienna, Dodger and Liberty. Cleo was quick to reassure Theresa of Dodgers feelings towards her, but Cleo’s relationship with Sienna may be on her rocks following baby Joseph having an accident whilst Cleo was asleep, but thankfully Gemma reassured her he’s fine. Donny is also still feeling stressed following Gemma’s admission, and he was probably right to leave the village when he did (but I’ll get onto that at the end of Mondays addition). After making through the worse it his cardiac arrest, Froggy enlisted Rex’s and Frankie’s help to bring in Sully, which so far seemed to have done the trick, but soon Smithy was involved in helping Sully escape. Oh dear… I’m glad that Dee Dee was able to help Frankie following her secret linking to JJ, but the teens in question were soon on another rebellious streak following John Paul asking her why she wasn’t in school. And Liberty had come fresh from a date, and after seeing spoilers, I could tell that maybe it was from Brookeside Close… and I was right (but more on that in a moment). And Tuesdays episode saw Sienna wanting to make amends with Cleo. Despite Goldie having her opposing thoughts, she could see how much they love each other. But another comment from Cleo and chatting about their relationship only gave them 3 steps back, and after Sienna confided her worries to Misbah, Sienna may be suffering from PTSD. And after leaving Liberty to her new man Tinhead (the character from Brookside Close), she’ll be asking all sorts of questions when she finds him in Jez's allotment. Elsewhere, Froggy made his feelings on Sully clear when she mentions that he needs her help after his prison escape, and Rex also stated his piece about how Sully must’ve done something bad if Froggy disowned him. And she may have been onto something when she constantly hears about him and Donny, resulted in Sully getting arrested once again. Misbah at first was abit hesitant after Gemma revealed the truth about her connection with Sully, but Vicky was more understanding and decided to take on her offer to help find Donny. Although the first attempt didn’t work the first time. And the Hutchinson children were in hot water with John Paul when Dee Dee refused to hand in her coursework again, but Ants mysoginistic comments sparked all three of them to get into trouble. And Ro was on high alert when she spotted testosterone in Ants bag after noticing him and Prince training together. 

Eastenders:

This week saw one resident on a downward spiral, one who had a shocking realisation and a potential new couple forming. Mondays episode saw Linda running around after Bea, telling Elaine that it’s the quickest way for her to leave. But her housemate Marcus is definitely glad to see the back of her, so maybe there is more to this story than meets the eye. That was soon interrupted when Elaine picked Ollie up from school, and revealed that he was the one being bullied. But I definitely felt for him when he mentioned how he misses Mick. Somehow though Max came to the rescue with regards to meeting Bea, and Penny was right to be suspicious giving his reputation. Meanwhile, Ravi had to stop his next informant task after getting messages from Priya about Nugget, who was then shocked to find out he did it. But following a successful procedure, Priya herself is in a difficult position as to whether to tell the truth or not. And harry is also on edge after finding out about Nugget, with Nicola insisting it’ll all be fine. And Alfie convinced Jasmine to get to know Patrick, with Yolande convinced it’ll help both her and Patrick, who was still grieving for Anthony. But seeing Anthony’s two sons in a photo album made her suspicious. I wonder why? Tuesdays episode saw Jasmine getting to know Patrick and Yolande through the form of a rum masterclass. Things seemed to be going well, until lily finds Charli crying, and the baby monitor broken, causing Jasmine to go two steps back in regards to trying to fit in with the Slaters. But it’s a nice gesture of Patrick and Yolande offering Jasmine to stay at theirs, and it might help Patrick with his grief for Anthony as well. Fingers crossed! Lauren was also furious with Max for being late to their meeting to discuss a memorial for Abi, as Max got caught up in trying to get Bea away from Linda. I have a feeling Bea won’t take the rejection well. And Harry was right to suggest that he and Nicola going away may make them look guilty, and Barney was right to be suspicious when she tells him to pack a back. Ravi overbearing Barney talking to Zack about it may have made him realised that he was spiked, which caused him to have visions of Nish and why he lashed out at Nugget. I don’t think locking Priya in and coming round to Nicolas house is not the best idea. But there may be some new starts happening, as George is keen to invest in Walford East, and whilst romance may be the last thing on his mind, Vinny and Penny may be the thing to look forward to, and I do hope she sticks to Gina's advice about how the nice guys are definitely better than the bad boys (as I still don’t know to this day why anyone would want a bad boy). Wednesdays episode saw Patrick trying to get the rest of the Trueman household to get along. And Patrick was right to be suspicious of jasmines behaviour, as Denise and Kim mentioning about seeing Anthony’s body sent her on a downward spiral, and Oscar pleading with her to slow down didn’t go down well. Meanwhile, Honey was trying to conformity Bea following Max rejecting her. But a night out on the town only got more awkward when Bea thinks it’s Linda’s plan to humiliate her. Max meanwhile was trying to make it up to Lauren following advice from Linda. And thank god George and Priya were there to stop Ravi from doing the unthinkable, and Ravi finding out about Nicolas pregnancy also fling him no favours. And Suki was quick to reassure Nugget that Ravi is not abandoning him because of what happened, but because of who did it to Nugget after her experience with Jagvier. And I know Vinny is still stressed about the situation, but taking it out on Penny and assuming she doesn’t want to see him is not helping. But we all need a friend like Gina, who told Vinny to let Penny speak before he says anything. Finally, Thursdays episode saw Jasmine on a downward spiral, causing concern for Yolande and Oscar, who has his own problems with Max (who I’ll mention in a moment). Chelsea revealing the truth about Anthony also didn’t help, and it left her feeling more over the edge. But some wise words from Patrick prompted her to change her mind, but it was only to tell Anthony how she really feels following the revelation of how he treats women, showing the video of what happened on the night of his death. Meanwhile, Ravi is still traumatised following the last episode, and Patrick was able to give him some words of wisdom. But Jack making it clear to go when he gets a call was not on his mind, and bless Nugget for thinking why Ravi didn’t turn up to see him, thinking he’s not a “proper man”. But Priya was there to reassure him that it wasn’t the case. It was also the day of Abi's memorial, but it didn’t help when Cindy and Max got in the way and ruined the case especially made. But Oscar reading his speech sparked surprise in both the siblings and Jack. And I’m glad that Vinny and Penny are at least going to try and see if they work as a romantic couple, using their own banter as a way of flirting. 

Lazarus:

This week I watched two more episodes of the drama based on the book by Harlan Coben. Episode 3 saw Joel seeing Sutton, with her thinking he’s their father, and talked about him and Bella and revealing that they’re not a good match, with a clue mentioning about Billy Macintyre. It then included a flashback seeing Sutton wearing the same dress of the night of her murder, leading to Joel begging her not to leave. We then saw Joel going to morbid comics incorporated to meet Billy, asking about his mum Margot (Dr Lazarus’ assistant), which resulted in another flashback, sparking some more questions. Joel soon got into asking about Olsen, who was convinced he killed Sutton, revealing he didn’t break up with her after an argument that day either Billy looking suspicious whilst drawing. Meanwhile, Seth and Alison were re-examining the case against Cassandra, with Alison not convinced and Seth then ordered Joel to avoid a statement to Alison. Seth then showed Joel the gunshot report for dr Lazarus, and revealing he saw Sutton, and recognising a pattern. We then saw Aidan asking about Marlowe whilst Joel asking Bella for a torch, covering that it’s to find a mouse, when really it’s to search the office. But another client from the past called Harry Nash entered, talking about a lady called Bambi and something traumatic from the past. Dr Lazarus then came back after Joel found Harry’s file and saw his abusive background by priest Frank Barnway, questioning his safety. Joel then recognised a pattern and questioned Jonathans work ethic and his outlook on life, revealing the real reason why he wanted to be a forensic psychiatrist, wanting to be better than him. We then saw Joel going back to his workplace after recognising the face of the priest that abused Harry, with a video he saw stating that it wasn’t him that killed and committing suicide. He then talked to Alfie Chopra about him, with Alfie revealing he covered a session for him, which he doesn’t seem to remember. Before he left, he was greeted by Arlo, who was talking about people being good and bad, causing Joel to lash out and getting overwhelmed. Seth meanwhile was talking to Jenna about Joel, with Seth revealing Joel was the first to find Sutton, with a flashback then followed by seeing Sam. Joel then came home to find Jenna work Margot belong with admin, revealing his chat with Billy and questioned Margot about Lazarus’ patients, convincing Jenna that they need to keep his office open. He then but the truth and what happened in episode 1 and told her everything after that. But the conversation was soon interrupted by Aidan who was being bullied again and asked if they he ever wanted kids. Jenna was then seen trying to get Lazarus and Sutton, but it didn’t work, and I can imagine her frustration when she found out about Seth knowing before her. After a argument wit her, and whilst Jenna tried to summon Sutton at her grave, Joel was then greeted by past patient Laura Mainard, who was a psychiatrist, talking about her past, only to find a sketch book of a picture, which was the same picture on the suicide note and showed it to Billy after realising his work. He then revealed it was a dolmen and asked why it was on the note, explaining how it’s a symbol for the portal of the next world. Joel was then questioning Billy why they broke up on the night in question which was to show her much he cares, revealing he cheated on her with Jenna, and a flashback showing her next to Sutton covered in blood (which I was not expecting). Episode 4 saw recap of Billy’s revelation, and Joel was soon confronting Jenna, with her telling her side of the story and also revealed she was at home when Sutton was killed due to a blackout, causing a strain between the siblings. We then saw Seth reasoning with Joel after he told him about Jenna, but was interrupted when Joel saw Laura Mainhead thinking, it was a vision when in fact she was real, and it led to Joel telling her why he acted weird. Lauren was then telling Joel about her life followed by staying in Dr Lazarus’ office and finding Margot, this time in a vision, talking about Billy’s behaviour. Recognising the pattern, Joel was then rushing to Margots house, only to find Aidan at the scene, which was then followed followed by getting Seth to call him about Margot, and Seth and Alison finding out the body in Cassandra’s old flat was definitely Neil Croft, with Seth trying that it was down to a hunch. Joel was then explaining to Alison about Billy being the killer and Margots lack of contact, with Alison revealing he also has a connection to them, with Seth not being happy about it and along with Alison, suspectwd Joel of killing the people that were announced dead whilst also he revealed a flashback on why he stayed behind at the party. Joel was soon back to the office and seeing his dad again, who only chastises him for the night Sutton died and his reason why he stayed behind at the dance, bullying him into revealing the truth. Meanwhile, Seth and Alison managed to find footage of Margots whereabouts and told Seth not to go, but went anyway after seeing a flashback. During the community hunt, Joel found margots dog Teddy, only to be confronted by Billy and a gang beating up Sam and finding Margot dead, with Sam not feeling anything, but showed his gratitude to joel for helping him. As if that wasn’t enough, Aidan revealed that Joel is his dad (which probably explains why he wanted to see him so much), both trying to process it but made it clear that he’s always there to talk and also reassured him he would be there for him if he did find out Aidan is his child. Joel was then visiting Laura and offloaded everything to her, offering her services. Joel was then asked to come into the station and revealed Billy was in rehab at the time of Jonathan’s death, and then Alison revealed she’s been following him due to lack of trust. Joel was soon apologising to Seth, but I can imagine his frustration when he still didn’t believing him about how Margot would die. Despite this, Seth showed him Jonathan’s referral letter to Billy, with Joel then apologising to Jenna, revealing how Billy may have drugged her the night Sutton died, both apologising for their behaviour and watching old videos. But soon there was another clue when Joel spotted something from Sam’s house and realised he may have a link of killing Sutton after all…

Red Eye:

This week I watched two more episodes of the thriller with twists and turns. Episode 3 saw Hana examining Craig in the aftermath of this death, whilst the PM calls John to go back to Thames House. Ronald meanwhile had no idea on Craig wanting to see him, and Brody suggested to be removed from the party. But after refusing, Brody asked about the targets intentions, and him and Hana notice that Ronald is lying. His assistant Cece was then convincing Ronald he shouldn’t be in the office whilst Fox writes the number of the code, spying on him in the process. We then saw John Tennant coming back to Thames House, finding out that Delaney asked for him to take over, hoping to put the past behind them with Sergeant O’Hanlan having a plan to disarm the bomb. Fox meanwhile putting drugs in the drink chatting to Perry Lambert, unaware that they were spotted by air Marshall John, whilst Hana and Brody going to the place Craig died with Hana explaining how it wasn’t an accident, finding the button from his jacket. On the plane, Delaney was clearly struggling following the discovery of the C-4 and asked Alex on why Ronald suggested a lockdown and struggling to find a reason for it. Hana was then talking to Delaney and Alex after Chief officer Craig Stewart (his job title) revealed his link to the Russians, with Delaney coming to the conclusion that the man is definitely inside the building. Soon the drugs were taking an affect on Perry, and Fox finished the job by killing him. Whilst that was happening. Hana was consoling Maria and asked about Craig’s military background and revealed about his hatred for work. Air Marshall John and Noel King meanwhile were chatting and it did seem abit tense, but they were interrupted by Brody and asked Johnson why he was there and asked about Johnson’s son, only to be  interrupted by an emergency. At Thames House, O’Hanlan was going through the disposal with Delaney, but whilst Alex managed to save her, there was still no luck overall. Soon afterwards John was meeting Sergei about Delaney expelling Russians spies and begs him to look into enquiries. As the US Embassy, Brody was showing Hana Perry lambert with Hana suggesting it’s still not over based on where he hid him. John also explained that that Petersons driver is clean and the team is working hard, with Delaney revealing she chose him due to his bluntness, revealing that the only option is to find the detonator and the person responsible to stop the bomb going off. Brody and Hana then told Ronald and CeCe about Perry, asking why the killer targeted them and Brody backing her up. But Ronald soon started flipping it, sparking hana to not trust him and Brody gaining her trust. Megan explained about Perry and the connection with him and Craig, with her and Ruth satisfied about what they discovered. And Hana was asking about Perry and the accident linking to a place called Samson D-300, with Megan finding an article on people testifying whilst Delaney spoke to Peterson about it and realising it’s about him. Hana soon reported back to Brody about what Delaney told her and asking to speak to Ronald and Noel, with Brody stepping in to talk to Ronald. During this, Alex talked about the plans and the crash with the death of the pilots in the first episode, with Delaney asking questions and a former worker committing suicide following a complaint he made getting erased (which was the same one Jess wrote about), and Delaney berating Peterson for the situation. At the embassy, after Haha and Brody got Ronald’s and Noel’s side the story, Fox was watching on whilst Hana was looking for him and Brody suspecting that something is not right, with Hana getting stuck with him after recognising him. Episode 4 saw Brody ordering his colleague to shoot on sight, with it revealed that Hana wasn’t shot. At Thames House, Ruth came in to ask about Nick Martin to his wife Lauren, only to find Jess there and asking her about the complaint and asked to look at the office. At the US Embassy, the security cameras came back and figured out that Fox has been using a dead agents card and Hana and Brody went by themselves to avoid him going two steps ahead, but only just miss him again. After looking in the office, Ruth asked about why the Met police showed up whilst Delaney mentioned about the sender of the diplomatic bag, who was sent by a man called. Samuel Webb, senator of Minnesota. Hana also had a breakthrough when she notices Brody's tattoo, realising that Fox is not Russian. John meanwhile got a call about the plane nearly landing, feeling the pressure to find the detonator of the bomb. Jess meanwhile asked Ruth why MI5 are interested, but Ruth takes her phone after finding out she’s been recording her, but managed to gain her trust. But someone was soon following them. Outside of it all, John met Sergei, who is adamant it’s not the Russians and advised John to look closer to home. It then led to John giving Thames house an update, whilst Delaney and Peterson talking about life choices after she revealed the bomb can’t be disarmed and reveals she only option. But Megan and John were talking about John Albert Johnson and his outspoken personality, with Peterson’s connection to him and his other son having no photographic evidence. Hana and Brody also tried talking to Marshall Johnson and mentioning his other son Charles, but made it clear he doesn’t want to be found, but something tells me that Fox is Charles. At The King and Crown Pub, Ruth talking to pub worker about Nick Martin, with Jess asking about the CCTV footage after thinking outside of the box. On the plane, Peterson was asking Sarah about the bomb whilst Hana and Brody continue to interview Albert but were interrupted by Tillman, with Hana having flashbacks and having a panic attack, asking herself why he didn’t shoot her, Haha also got a notification on Alberts bank statement, with Brody deleting a message about it (I wonder why that was?). Delaney and Sarah then found out from Megan about how to land the plane without the numb going off, whilst Jess and Ruth managed to find someone on the footage, and reported it back to Thames House with Jess Li taking the credit. After Hana gave orders about Albert and reporting back to Simon with no help, she apologised to Brody and revealed she noticed the camera on her jacket after using the facilities, meaning they had to use a different approach to find Fox. On the plane, Sarah was prepping Rowan and her co-pilot for the worst, and Delaney made an emotional call to her husband whilst Jess and Ruth get stopped by military police and looking for the hard drive, with Ruth being attacked and revealed to Jess about the bomb. 

Patience:

This week I arched three more episodes of the autistic criminal archivist helping the police solve more mysteries in Yorkshire. Episode 3: Magpie, saw a meeting interrupted when a magpie came in and shot the leader. Whilst examining the crime scene, Patience thought the killer was in the house, with Frankie thinking the magpie is a code word for the real killer. Afterwards, Elliot told Patience about the route to her mums house, with Patience being unsure on if she wants to find her. Back at the station, Will was talking about an artist whilst Patience’s instincts were right. Whilst Baxter getting grilled about his social media Zinzi, Jake and Will found a man called Guy Dalton where Frankie went to his book signing and how he guessed about Magpie. Whilst everyone was seeing the social media posts, Patience got some evidence on Ben Jarret, which then led to Guy getting interviewed with him being caught in the act, but used his mind reading skills to the test. And something he said (which I’ll mention in a moment) sparked Patience to Elliot about her mum. As Jake was unsure of him, Frankie admits she can handle him and guy uses his manipulating to see what happened and how the sound of glass caused a distraction and failed to listen to Patience warning, because it didn’t go to plan. After the visit, Patience and Elliot went to her mums house after wanting not to be riddled with curiosity (which was what Guy said), only to be given the news she’s passed away, with her not being sure on how to feel. After Will showed how Ben signed up to a prostitute site, Patience was sorting out files and Jake interviewing Amber. Frankie was amazed by her office whilst Patience showed Frankie how Ben is linked to numerous crimes with him being the magpie, and went to a magic museum for the next clue, with magician Jay Presto himself showed a magic trick. Meanwhile Zinzi got told off by Baxter by posting about the case and thinking about the serious side to it, but told her not to worry about it and making her a promise about posting on his socials. Jay was then talking about Ben and why he taught young offenders magic, and also being surprised when Patience solved a trick (which I found quite amusing). In AA, Billy talked about brain wiring when Patience mentions about Frankie’s magic experience which I found quite interesting. Will and Jake also made a breakthrough when they spotted Amber half an hour before the murder, and Patience apologising to Frankie about ruining the magic. Amber in her interview stated that Guy Delton was a new client of hers and how she and Ben did normal stuff. Patience also spotted something on CCTV when something in the email led to Jay, and Patience managed to lead everyone to him after the magic trick and revealed that jay was also the magpie. In the mirror room, Patience’s instinct led to finding the real Jay and recapped what happened on the night of the murder (which I wasn’t expecting him to be in the room and using a trick to make it sound like there was just one gunshot in the room. At the end of the episode, Patience confided in Elliot about how she’s not part of the team but also thanked him for coming with her, and did a search on looking for the blue diamonds, and Elliot giving her a clue led to finding them. Episode 4: The Timetable saw autistic girl Lola finding her dad Philip Braxton dead. Meanwhile, Patience and Elliot went on a tour of a local historic landmark, with Patience adamant she’s fine with Elliot’s band mates joining in, and having a lovely photo. But i could understand her unease when Elliot asked about her friends, but were interrupted by the murder, which at the crime scene, Frankie and Jake were talking to Phil’s colleague whilst Dr Parsons suggests what he could be and mentions about his daughter. And bless Patience for apologising, but Elliot adamant she didn’t ruin the day. Jake then revealed Phil’s wife Clare left her phone, and Frankie asking Patience in on her opinion, even though she made it clear that every autistic person is different. But she gave her opinion anyway, and soon a hunt was going on. Patience managed to find her, recognising a way of self soothing called echolalia when they realise she may have witnessed her fathers death. Will then revealed there was no evidence in the house and Frankie was telling Lola’s sister Evie they still need a social worker, with Evie revealing how Lola takes up her mum's time which for Patience, was abit hard to watch (and it was for me too). Social worker Kirsty met Frankie and revealed the news to a family friend, whilst Patience was getting Billy's help in finding Lola’s mum, but was adamant she doesn’t want to be found. Soon she noticed that there was a backpack in the footage which didn’t have when they found her, and a search commenced whilst Patience talked to Jake about Elliot meeting her friends, stating he wants to know them better. Frankie eventually found the rucksack with drugs inside, suggesting Lola was a drug mule. Patience was then wondering if Clare didn’t want to be found after  what Evie said (which was a relatable thing after thinking about it with my own family) and Frankie suggested that talking to Lola is the only way. This then prompted a visit from Patience and Billy, giving her something from Billys brothers train set, but Patience was detecting something when Lola goes into self soothing mode, and she using a different approach to talk to her, resulting in giving Patience her box as a clue. Frankie and Jake meanwhile was talking Phil’s colleague about them doing a routine that made it feel like a real journey, with them recapping what happened and how it links to Clare. But a clue on a takeaway bag leads to Evie, with Frankie adamant they need to help her after they suspect her, and it resulted in Evie being remained in custody and blames Lola for their financial problems, with Patience looking back at the timeline. Meanwhile, Zinzi met Patience and asking about being included in the socials, but a comment from Baxter on where he came from interrupted it, and sparked an epiphany when there’s a station missing which is revealed to be a specialist school, and Frankie spotting the neighbour Nadia Ward in the photo. The teacher from the school then came in to say her side of the story, talking about Lola’s friend Kelly, and Patience noticing Nadia's jacket traces her memory of the CCTV footage of her on the day of the murder. We could then see Lola getting overwhelmed whilst the team search the house, with Patience getting overwhelmed when she finds Kirsty. And after Frankie recapped the situation, Will managed to get a location, with Evie and Lola finding Clare and letting Lola and Evie escape, but thankfully they managed to get to everyone just in time. It was revealed that Clare didn’t reporting Nadia due to feeling sorry for her after loosing Kelly, recapping that Clare witnessed Nadia killing Phil. Patience was then reflecting after seeing Clare with Evie and Lola. It then ended with Elliot meeting Billy where she tells her of her favourite things. Although it was abit awkward after Patience tries to bind the two of them, but Billy reassured him that she does like him and enjoyed the quiz, and commenting on the necklace. Finally, Episode 5: “The Runes” saw a man called Samuel Henry getting ready for a speech and having some tension with one member called Laurence Croft , but suffered a terrible fate whilst giving a speech. Before she headed to the crime scene, Elliot took Patience on a surprise date, stating how she likes some warning beforehand, but appreciated the semi-Spontaneity, with Frankie making a joke about “getting a room”. Whilst at the scene, Jake saw a video of Samuel’s death, suggesting what it could be, and Patience recognising the name of the stone and finding a note about it being forged. The lecturer, Cathy Wilkes, was emotional about Samuel whilst Frankie and Patience talked to him about his life, where he explained about his past and not mentioned any forgery. Jake then mentioned the order to the waitress’ on the day of the murder whilst Zinzi snooped into Patience’s office. I felt for her as I wouldn’t want to be interrupted whilst working, but she decided to let her film. Soon, Forensics came back from high blood pressure, possibly due to spiking the drink, asking if was intentional. It was then followed by Patience asking Eliot about the plan for the weekend, which she felt abit off putted when he asks if she was serious (which I also relate to). Frankie was then asking Natalie about Samuel who revealed her relationship and his mental health, asking if someone spiked his drink after he ordered it. But Frankie and Patience were soon following Natalie to find her with Laurence arguing, followed by Will telling Jake about the tip offs of the forgery. Patience also found something on CCTV, and found the same pattern of clothing in the book. It then led them to meeting a professor about if the stone is fake, but they find out it’s not from the Viking age whilst Laurence is killed from an anaphylactic shock. During the crime scene, Frankie and Patience found numbers in his office and asked Cathy about the numbers, wondering who could be the suspect. It then led to Natalie being interviewed again about her encounter with Laurence and the forgery. But outside of it, after Elliot made a joke about timing which upset her, Patience was then talking to her group about her and Elliot, and her need for routine and structure. Billy then suggested that she would need to be upfront and also asking for clarity from Elliot. Whilst Baxter was getting up to date with the case, and Will finding a potential suspect from Patience’s findings, Patience and Elliot were chatting about their needs, but a comment about how she took his joke and her way of communicating her needs made them go their separate ways. That part for me was quite hard to watch, as whilst I get it may be a lot to take in for Elliot, Patience was only showing her way of what she needs and also open to knowing what he needs, but I can see why she needed to call time on their relationship. Whilst Zinzi was showing Baxter Patience’s tweet, Douglas gave her some relationship advice, where she was telling him about what the others from the group said, and how sometimes they’re opinions are not all relevant. But she soon turned her attention to some numbers she found earlier on, with Will keeping updated on the gay called Brian Shepstone (who wore the same material Patience found) and soon reported it back to her. Reports eventually found an anaphylactic shock despite not having food, and figuring out what other options of how it happened. But now wasn’t a perfect time for Frankie asking Patience about her sleep, and her explaining her and Elliot was also not a good time, as he overheard everything. Soon Frankie and Patience were talking about the coordinates and Brian’s involvement, with Will going into Laurence’s bank account and linking it to Cathy Wilkes, who was revealed to be Brian’s wife with the girls and Jake on the hunt for her. Frankie and Patience soon found Brian and asked about the fakes, with Patience causing a distraction with their dog (which she was quite good at), as Cathy and Brian escaped. But her act was uncovered when she revealed she put peanut flour on Laurence’s notes and took his EpiPen to scare him, sparking emotion in Patience when she sees their love for each other. The end of the episode saw Frankie praising Patience and talked about her video, with Jake asking her if breaking up with Elliot is the best idea. I couldn’t tell if Elliot also felt the same after he was talking to a female colleague, but I’m just intrigued to see how they interact for the rest of the series, and it really is like the Ross and Rachel of York. 

Sleeping Beauty:

I’m putting this under professional as it’s acting related, as this week I watched an on demand version of the 2025/2026 pantomime performed at the Nottingham Playhouse. After being unable to see it live due to illness, this was the next best thing. And like last time I loved this format, as even though seeing it in real life would’ve been great, it was an accessible way to enjoy a show from the comfort of your own home, particularly if some people can’t afford to go in person or they find large spaces overwhelming. And it also reignited my passion for Pantomime after being unable to be part of a professional tour due to reasons beyond my control. Keep an eye out for a review of the show and what I thought of it.

Personal:

Exercise:

This week I managed to do well with my usual workout routine. After gaining some tips from my gym buddy last week, I decided to implement them but lower the weight. I know to some it's abit of a step back, but I would rather look at the form first before upping the weight. I also did well on the bike. I'm nowhere near getting back to 15k in 20 minutes, but to even make the distances as seen below in the most depressing month of the year is an achievement for me.

Cooking:

This week I went back to basics when it came to cooking. This was partly due to changing the bed, and with the microwave being broken (which I’ll mention in “Challenges I Faced & How I Overcame Them), I had no choice but to do that. Although it was very tasty indeed, and I haven't had them in a few weeks, so even more reason why they tasted good ! 

Surveys:

This week I did two surveys. It may have only been two, but these were at a time where I was getting abit overstimulated, and wow they certainly did the trick. And I got some money out of it, so at least that was a bonus.

Darts:

This week I had two practice legs of the sport. I won't lie, I got frustrated on the first practice so gave up after 8 missed darts, but after 25 missed darts at double, and 5 bust scores, not only did I land my first 60, I managed to finish the second game on double 3. I guess this is an example of how if I stick with it, I will get there. Something I should definitely apply to in my acting career.

Autism Acceptance Week Fundraising: 

I mentioned it briefly in the professional section, but I managed to sort out a brief plan for working out each stuff for the week that means so much to me. My t-shirt also came, and I‘ve also planned in my head the introduction for this week which I’m going to post hopefully by the next weekly highlights. Be sure to keep an eye out on my socials for that announcement!

Squid Game: The Challenge:

This week I watched more of the intense competition based on the popular Korean Drama. Episode 4: Mingle saw Player 098 Matthew playing the sob story in order to save himself, with player 111 august worrying it’s him who gets picked, when in fact it was announced that player 431 Raul was voted and eventually eliminated, upsetting player 432 Jacob. Whilst I get why everyone else choice to eliminate Raul, I would’ve personally kept him as player 098 would be abit too overstimulating for me personally, which would of course distract me in the game. Player 072 Pearla was also warning her brother player 283 Jeffery of the game and player 369 Zoe also worried. Player 110 Melissa and player 415 Eric were chatting about what’s happened so far, and Player 021 Marcus talked to the players he trusts about the next game when he got a clue about the next one. Player 153 Austin picked player 432 Jacob to share the disadvantage after getting selected from the doll. The next game was the iconic “Mingle” which showed the players true colours and realising that keeping their allies is harder than they thought. And it definitely was hard, with player 111 August having an emotional elimination, and player 153 Austin and 432 Jacob being eliminated, followed by everyone having a disliking for player 075 Natalie. Realising how awful the game really is, it ended with everyone refusing to play, and then pairing up resulted the third game being revealed which was Marbles. Episode 5: “Sacrifice”, saw a tearful game in Marbles. Player 369 Zoe and player 370 Kurt found the humour in this situation, but ultimately Zoe came out on top. Player 072 Pearla and her brother player 283 Jeffery chatted, but in the end he let her win, which was the kind of thing that yes was emotional, but it also made her feel devastated. Player 183 being strategic (which was later revealed he was a poker player and already had money) and player 415 Eric revealed the truth to player 110 Melissa, upsetting her but was also upset that she beat him. Finally, Player 098 Matthew managed to beat player 024 Peter, but some people were not happy about it. After the game, Player 302 Dajiah and player 361 Faith talked about what to do with the money (which faith talking a lot about her past), and soon the decision to pick three monitors caused chaos when 098 Matthew doesn’t agree with the decision. In the end the group picked 230, 327 and 410 Isaiah, but suspicions are raised with one clue being the colour of the bed sheets and they were right when they have to decide 3 people to put at risk of elimination. It was then a race or survival to save not only themselves, but the monitors also being at risk of elimination. Episode 6: Ups & Downs, picked up where we left off and the frontman purposely turning the big screen off, which obviously annoyed the other players not watching. It then resulted in eliminating the people in the boiler room getting eliminated, upsetting player 098. it then prompted player 327 Kate and 410 Isaiah to choose someone else to be a hall monitor, which was 409 Claire and deciding who to eliminate. And whilst Perla and Kate talking about JOMO, some of the girls were asking who would win, with Isaiah and Pearla being in the firing line. And Isaiah out of nowhere told 409 and 327 about how it’s every person for themselves, promoting Claire to tell payer 451 about it. Surprisingly (and even I was shocked by it), player 410 Isaiah was chosen and 409 revealed her reason why she did it which was appreciated by the other players. The monitors were then in charge of picking teams of two with Trinity swapping places with the remaining player. It then resulted in the game “slides and ladders” taking place, really tearing alliances and player 183 Steven getting on Pearla's nerves, upsetting her as well. 

The Masked Singer:

This week I watched a spooktacular special of the ultimate guessing game. I was nowhere near the guess of who Gargoyle was when they got unmasked, but for some reason I still got emotional lol! Red Panda absolutely confused me, and a clue from Moth got me wondering if it was a member from a popular girl band. But I did enjoy this episode in particular, and Ben Shepherd making an appearance was a nice addition to the panel.

Challenges I Faced & How I Overcame Them:

I think the first of the main challenges I faced this week was the tiredness from working extra hours to gain my money back, and working out when to work the remaining hours certainly did give me a headache. Thankfully there was one day which I wasn’t working extra hours, and I made the most of it by getting as much rest as I could. Along with watching The Sound of Music, my dog as seen below made sure I was okay, even if she did take up alot of room.

The second challenge was not having a microwave for a few days due to it breaking. It did make rethinks tricky as we had to eat our meals more or less straight away. But on the days where I had to warm up my food, I simply put it in the oven for 10 minutes and it did the trick. That’s one tip I’ll definitely be taking away if ever I move into my own place. The final challenge was having to leave one piece of content to film later on in the year. It was frustrating, but with a lot of stuff to film followed by my stuff for my class and a performance I’ve got in February, I didn’t want to stress myself out even more, and have my mood affected for my birthday in a few weeks. But with the Heartstopper film coming out this year, it felt like the perfect time to release it for then. 

What have I learnt this week? A few things. These are to watch my energy levels following my exhaustion phase, you must be at your best, which is what practitioner Stella Adler mentioned in a book called The Art of Acting, and after not giving up to finish the leg in my practice darts match, I should really have that same mindset in my acting career.

See you soon for another blog. Until next time…

This is The Autistic Actress signing off :)