I had a different phlebotomist take my bloods today and as soon as I saw her I knew I was in for a rough ride. She didn't know that it's difficult to get blood from me, although I did try to tell her. She jabbed about, kept the needle in whilst making me flex my arm and held my wrist as if she was frightened I might run from the room. It took ages. She got some blood in the end, but left me with a bruise that extended about two inches each way from the crook of my arm, a big painful lump and a bruise from where she was holding my wrist so tightly. I was probably far too nice about it, but I will not let her near my veins again. Ever.

Nick was off again today, so we went for a walk in Butterdean Wood with Murron and Doggo which was a good way to slough off the morning. The colours are changing everywhere and there was the beginnings of the satisfying crunch of fallen leaves underfoot.