We drove across to Dorset yesterday (Saturday) to meet Dad for lunch. Merlin had a day at the kennels. The weather was mild and sunny and it was lovely to catch up and have a change of scene. The landscape of the New Forest was looking autumnal as we passed through, which was a pleasant contrast to the landscape nearer home which still feels very green for the time of year. I savoured the half an hour or so we had basking in the gentle sun while waiting for Dad to arrive. It’s amazing what good just that and some friendly conversation can do to boost the spirits.

Today (Sunday), we have washed the patio, raked leaves off the grass and pruned the lavender bushes. Andy’s also been to the driving range, returned with some treats from the farm shop, and I’ve made some cakes and biscuits - we’ve not had any for a while and we’re both hankering for some home baking!

As I walked to the village shop this evening I noticed two houses with their Christmas decorations sparkling in the dark.

My blip is however of some cheerful painted stones at our local primary school which made me smile as I passed them this morning.