All in all....

.....last night's scouter drinks at the brewery were jolly as usual, but these events oft result in hangover symptoms the next day. Trying to ignore the sensation of hairy teeth, I ventured forth this morning with evident morning-after symptoms. 

My sis and her family turned up early to collect a wanted/unwanted day bed. I'm delighted they want it because it saves me dealing with the general public in a sales transaction.

Next, Nancy and I popped down to Woodside, near Ancrum. Imagine Dobbies, but instead its pleasent and stocked with genuinely interesting stuff, not just unsold Xmas books and sub-optimal outdoor clothing. We also received useful advice about our 'wildlife pond' and fruit tree care from Sarah, who drives-up from Northumberland every day because she likes working there so much. It's my new favourite shopping experience...a short list of places. 

Owen joined us later for a trip to the local restaurant where we were attended by the owner's daughter who is studying to be a lawyer in term time but is working tables over the summer to pay her fees. She's lovely and they'll miss her when she heads off to uni again. 

We finished the evening waiting for Owen's taxi to the train station at the Bucceluch Arms. Needless to say, Scotrail cancelled the service he was aiming for resulting in a long wait. They are utterly incapable of running a railway.....maybe they should try running a water company?