Sunday morning, I was awake at 3.30am, for the second morning in a row. Also, for the second morning in a row, I couldn’t get back to sleep. Feeling maudlin I lay there in my hammock, having a good cry. I’ve often felt tearful since Dad passed, however this is only the second time that I’ve had a really good cry. I spent the rest of the day on the sofa, braindead, watching old Star Trek episodes, eating supermarket pizza and drinking wine. I had an afternoon nap which was good and went to bed early. Once again, I awoke at 3.30am, however after reading for a while, I dropped back off to sleep until 5.30am.

I’ve had a lingering shower, a brisk walk with the dog, and feel a lot better this morning. I’ve determined that I’m not going to let my landlord try and force me to get rid of my dog just because it’s proving difficult for me to get a new rental. Maybe people who aren’t pet owners won’t understand, but I love my dog. He ‘forces’ me to get regular exercise, keeps me company, and makes me feel safe at night alone in the house. For his part, I’m sure he loves me too, and he’d pine away if left with a new owner. He’s 10-years-old, and I doubt many would take him on anyway. We all know the saying: A dog is for Life…

I’ve decided I’m going to take a more aggressive stance with my landlord. We all know the usual meaning of ‘aggressive’ however it can also mean to be forceful, assertive, dynamic – not all bad. He’s had more than 10 years of rents from me, I’ve been a good tenant, and one more month being here should not be that big a deal. He hasn’t lined up a new tenant yet as he wants to redecorate, and possibly extend the property before letting it again. If he tries to force me out, I WILL involve a solicitor, and the local press; he has more than 20 properties and would not stand any bad press. From my point of view: I’m trying to arrange long term care for my Mum, my Dad died 6 weeks ago which isn’t long, and this scurvy dog is trying to make me abandon my beloved dog all for the sake of me staying possibly another month? I don’t think so!

The Deckhand is viewing a property on Wednesday that we’re both optimistic about, that is assuming the agent can actually access it, unlike the previous viewing. We’re also waiting for replies from 6 other agents re the dog. Who knew there were so many animal haters out there?

So, feeling more energised and positive, and fed up of people mistaking my niceness for weakness. Bring it on!