It's mine!

I made a big effort today not to waste the mornings any more. I have to be careful not to drift off to the muted tones of Radio 4, but stay alert with a bit of blipping and news reading on my iPad, only possible if Archie doesn't lie right up under my chin.

Today I was up, washing and online shopping done, then out for a quick round-the-blocker with Arch, then off to wish Uncle A Happy New Year. And it was still morning!

I had to avert my eyes and hurry past many many discarded Christmas trees. You do see some sights at the bins - indeed, I got my very fine computer chair at a bin several years ago. This chair has obviously caught someone's eye, but they possibly couldn't take it away at the time, so what to do? Chain it to the lamppost, of course.

We spent an hour or so with Uncle A, with Archie snoozing on my lap, but the mizzle, which had begun as we arrived, seemed to be getting worse. My plan to take the bus then walk back through the Meadows to give him a run was abandoned.

We were both pretty miserable, waiting for the second bus. There was a nearby cafe, and it looked really inviting (ie big scones were visible) and I stepped inside and pointed to Archie, lest they hadn't noticed him. But they shook heads at me. Just as well, actually, because I don't think I had enough money with me. Besides, the best coffee is from my coffee machine. And I couldn't wait to get back home, coffee made, accompanied by thick white toast with delicious raspberry jem (thanks T). Archie has been been towelled off and is on my lap, and the next instalment of the Czech serial The Lens is on my iPad. Bliss.

Interesting reading .