Split level

The magpie couple have been trying to build their nest here for at least two weeks - they work very hard at it but seem almost completely inept. One brings a twig to present to the other and then drops it - sometimes it falls in the general nest area but more usually it falls to the ground. Viewing it from beneath there's scarcely enough twigg-age to prevent an egg falling through.I was puzzled by the apparent construction of an upper floor - but Mr H reckons it's just when they drop a twig from a greater height and it gets lodged above the main nest.

D went up to the conference centre for his jag and I went to Stockbridge in order to get him a Dolly pie (his reward for being a brave wee sodger). Finally made some sauerkraut without any discomfort in the fingers!

Right, I'm off to make a couple of pizzas.....