An odd Sunday

Weather mixed, activities very mixed. We begged a cane from Stewart and propped up a leaning miniature yew that's been planted outside Walnut Lodge. We're not at all sure about having yew trees near the lodge; they are poisonous and the lodge is specifically placed and fitted out to be attractive to families with small kids.

We've discussed our concerns with both Stewart and the office staff and hope that they are going to be relocated. (The yews, that is.) At the same time we hope to get the hebes replaced, as the rabbits have scoffed all the ones planted there.

There followed a very pleasant hot choc session with Stephen and Jayne in the Willow Tree, after which we went back to the boat and dog sat for an hour whilst Elanor went riding. She brought us some firewood in exchange which will be handy during these odd days. We need the fire first thing in the morning and sometimes in the evening, but let it go out during the day.

We pushed the boat across onto Geoff's mooring so that Sheila could wash the other side of the cratch cover; the whole thing is looking much better. Whilst doing this, a gang of characters turned up, launched a bathtub, put one of their number in it with an empty champagne bottle and took photos of him.

Apparently it's part of Willington Arts Festival, so here's a sneak preview, and world premier exclusive, in fact:

The sun shone brightly for us all, which almost made up for the fact that he didn't capsize, sink or otherwise fall in.