Monday

 Good morning!  Once again you have proved what a lovely lot you are.  Thank you, thank you for your kind and understanding comments.

Yesterday's sunshine didn't last, sadly, although it didn't rain all day and I think it feels a bit warmer, which is nice.  It's raining steadily again at the moment so not an auspicious start to the new week and I feel for the children on holiday from school (and their parents/carers).
At least I don't need to worry about the allotment!
Every now and again, I go out and give all the tomatoes a good shake to get off some of the dampness, something Dad taught me years ago.  Does it help?  No idea, but it makes me feel I am doing something to combat blight anyway!

It was a much happier day, thank you.  I pottered around in the morning, doing bits and bobs and generally just keeping busy and then drove over to Beth's mid afternoon.  We had a lovely time - well, I did and I think Beth did too.  

Neither of us are make-up girls but, as Beth is being a chief bridesmaid (not exactly a bridesmaid but you know what I mean) for her best friend next month, she decided she needed to do something so she went to Boots and one of the ladies there gave her a make up 'lesson' and sold her the appropriate products.  We had a good look at them and Beth had a go on me which was great fun and - well, I was very surprised at the difference it made.  All very girly and Alex retired to his room in disgust, poor chap!!

Beth has a few days off at some point soon and we have decided to go back so they can do something similar for me and then we can go over the road to a nice pub and have lunch together.  Or lunch first and then Boots, depending on when Beth can get going.
A real old fashioned mother and daughter day and I am so looking forward to it.

Today, this afternoon, I am off to Dad's, partly to do some more clearing and also because the boiler is being serviced, things checked over and certificates of whatever written for when the house goes on the market.
So, this morning, I am sorting stuff out, packing, getting food together, emptying the ironing basket, washing my hair and generally getting everything on order before I leave.
It should keep me out of trouble anyway!
I don't have to worry about tuition because it's off for a couple of weeks.  The family is not going away but they are having a holiday at home.  What a shame about the weather but it is supposed to be getting better - at some point!

Well, it's still pouring and even darker looking than when I started.  Most unpleasant and I must remember to pack my umbrella into the car.  I bet the ducks are happy!

As R L Stevenson said:

The rain is raining all around,

It falls on field and tree,

It rains on the umbrellas here,

And on the ships at sea.

And here's another little ditty!

Rain rain everywhere,
It soddens grass and rocks,
seeps water in your underpants,
and mould into your socks. 

Rain rain lashes down,
a torrent from the sky,
come on sunshine, show yourself,
or I will surely cry.

Stay dry, warm and safe and have a great day, whatever the weather.  xx