This week has been a little slow, though it has had its highlights. Wednesday, my sister and her partner visited for lunch; Thursday, I had my long-awaited CT scan; Friday was a glorious day here. I quickly got bedding in the washing machine and out on the line. Whilst it was drying, the Ship’s Dog and I did some weeding on the deck. He’s so helpful: show him some grass, tug at it briefly, tell him he’s a good boy, and he’ll dig it out from the paving slabs. No joke! Now, if I could just get him to put it into the green recycling wheelie bin, I’d be on to a winner lol. We pulled about half a bucket load of weeds before my back told me enough was enough. We’re one week into October and I’ve had notice that I’ve had a small win on the Premium Bonds. It won’t change my life, though every little helps. It’s all treasure after all, for my coffers :)

Each Friday, so far, the Deckhand and I have Skyped for quite a long period of time. It’s been great to see him on a video chat, and to ensure that’s he’s having a good time and that he’s eating well. He’s being sociable, gets on well with his housemates and people in his class, and has joined two clubs that each meet once a week to design and make games and so on, outside of the class environment. He also goes to the gym, so is obviously settling in well. I know he likes his 3-day weekend.

I’ve been toying with having a decorator in and getting his bedroom sorted out, but after talking with my kid sister - she’s had decorators in, and a plasterer, and to a man, they have done half the job and not come back again to finish - I may just put paste on some of the wallpaper that has come away, and just repaint it myself. I have 10 weeks to get it done. I’m sure the paint will dry in that time…

Saturday has dawned damp and misty. I donned my walking boots and a big coat, and armed with a shopping bag and an umbrella, the Ship’s Dog and I jumped Ship and went for a nice walk. I took him on the long lead, and he enjoyed snuffling around the grass and some bushes and trees on the side of the path. On the way back, I stopped for a newspaper – hence the shopping bag.

I recently bought some lovely, thick-cut bacon from a butcher and once I finish this blog, I’m off to the galley to make a bacon butty and a fresh cup of coffee. I shall then peruse the newspaper and try the crossword whilst eating my butty. Can’t fault it! It’s the simple pleasures that make retirement so good.