Have you ever been in an intriguing conversation but suddenly ‘lose your hearing’ as they say something. So, you awkwardly laugh and say ‘yes’ or nod your head like you heard them, the itching feeling of what they said nagging you at the back of your brain. When moments later, you suddenly remember what they’ve said, replying appropriately to them. But only to leave them looking confused to say, ‘you only just answered the question I asked you 5 minutes ago, now?’

I am writing this article while experiencing quite a disruptive and quite rude uninvited headache that seemed to come out of nowhere. However, it did spark the question I knew would be for my next article series: ‘If our brains can’t feel anything, then how do we feel headaches?’ I mean, when we say ‘oh my head hurts so much’ or ‘my brain is in so much pain’ that doesn’t scientifically make sense. Because, although it may feel like your brain hurts during a migraine or headache, it is actually the tissues surrounding it that are sensitive to pain.

You’re sitting there, minding your business, when suddenly someone you had an argument with earlier hits you with the kind of remark that makes your soul leave your body for a brief vacation. Your mouth opens. Nothing comes out. Your brain, the traitorous organ it is, offers only radio silence. You manage a weak chuckle, an awkward mumble and maybe a strained face, but before you know it, the moment passes.
Then, as you’re lying in bed that night, it hits you like the Orient Express railway train, carrying nothing but pure wit: Oh my god, I should’ve said THAT!

For an unathletic person like me, Sports Day awards have never seemed remotely attainable. And honestly, who decided that the only prizes worth winning are for running, jumping, and throwing things? So, in the spirit of fairness and fun, I’ve concocted some totally unofficial, yet utterly essential awards for all the Houses, just to add some extra amusement to the day.

Something you may or may not know about me is I have three cats. And due to the wonders of study leave (and my innate ability to procrastinate) I’ve been fortunate enough to spend a lot more time with my cats than I’m usually able to. This has provided me with an excellent opportunity to hone my cat whispering skills (and of course revise, but as everyone’s aware it’s my ability to befriend cats that will get my A*s in my A levels, not my mathematical abilities).