Small victories

Lots done today — popped to the garden centre for topsoil and compost, and couldn’t resist rescuing a couple of plants from the reduced trolley. I do love giving the underdogs a second chance.

Swung by to collect Bex on the way to lick uo our lunch. Palestinian salad box and falafel flatbreads. Can’t believe that place has been open four years and I’ve only just discovered it — absolutely delicious, and good value too.

Then it was over to G’s to “sit” on her while Mum & Dad dashed off to collect the new puppy. While they were gone, Bex gave her hair a quick chop — lopped off a solid six inches. Looks miles better and she coped quite well.

Later, we had the bright idea to pop down to the local shop for wine, ice cream, and chocolate. G spontaneously said she’d come — we all bundled into the car. It’s the first time she’s left the estate with us since before Christmas, and only a handful of outings with her mum in that time. That’s real progress. Mental health’s been stealing her childhood, but today it felt like she gave it a bit of a fight back.

Meanwhile, Blackberry the stoopid cockerel attacked me again — clawed me and left a nice little puncture wound with his beak. Honestly, I hate that bird.

Now sat in the garden with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc, enjoying the calm. Hard-earned, slightly bruised, but a good day.

Extra is G's protest, not sure she wanted us to leave, but when we got to the car she got up and didn't put up any more of a fight... so who knows.