You know how, when you're about to go to a country you've never been to before, never thought about before, but in the days prior to departure, that country is in the news every day... Vietnam for us this week. 
First it was featured in the holiday section in the Telegraph, a big article on what an amazing destination it is. 
Then, terrible storms and flooding, mentioned on the World Service news yesterday, so must be significantly worse than usual. 
Then, news today that the single largest nationality of illegal immigrants to the UK are now coming from... Vietnam! More than 2,000 have crossed on small boats this year.

My Bulgarian handyman came at 8.30 to paint the wall, the plaster having dried over the weekend. Archie just looked at him, and didn't bark. So, the job is done, and looks as good as new.

Once he'd gone, about two hours later, Archie and I went out for a walk. We walked past Abi's house, where he'd been SO EXCITED yesterday - but not a peep. He didn't even stop to sniff at their gate! I have a theory that he knows it's an actual visit because we are usually carrying flowers. He also barks all the way to Christine's when we're going for a visit (carrying flowers)... 

JR had a freebie from her favourite shop (JL) which was for two coffees and two cakes. Not to be wasted! Besides, she was returning an item deemed superfluous to requirements. We both chose the cinnamon buns, as they were absolutely ginormous. I came home after that, and yes, worth mentioning - my bus arrived within a few minutes! 

A quick walk out for Archie - he stays at home quite happily for a couple of hours. But when JR came home, she took him out for a bigger walk.

The suitcases are out!!