Today has been a successful day. Not only did I convince my grandmother that my plan is sound, but I also received my first donation – in the form of spray paint from my dad. Mr. Lion did indeed no longer reside in Dordrecht. I spoke with my dad about my King’s Day fundraising idea: setting up an African-oriented photo booth with a lion and a giraffe, probably some additional spears to include the complete family; a savanna background; taking pictures, sending those on in exchange for a voluntary gift. Mr. Lion’s absence is a blow, even though expected. Lions are hard work.

I better get a move on creating those masks. They need to be attractive, people must see the time and love spent in making them. It is my input that pays out in the end. My father wanted to help and offered paying for the wire netting that I’ll need for the shaping – although I don’t have my mum’s efforts to benefit from, I’ll at least benefit from her earlier ideas. In the end, we settled on him donating paint as he had plenty to go round. So now I’m the proud owner of a various colours in the shades of yellow, back, brownish and white. A good start! A project in the making, exciting times. I’ll be just like the good olden days of the Lords of Misrule, the amateur theatre company I once was involved with. Anyone care to join in? Be my guest!