I have so enjoyed my daily prompt, but I need to gather myself and get back to business.

Can we start with today? Saturday March 1st. Tbh, I was believing it was Sunday until someone on LBC Radio mentioned it. Oh dear.

I hadn’t expected what unfolded to be so pleasant. Taking the dog out is always pleasurable, whatever the weather. It’s a good job I have him, really, as I’m not sure I’d go out walking unaccompanied at all. I vary our walks as His Nibs clearly gets bored going to same old and without fail let’s me know by simply sitting down and refusing to move. Fair enough. He’s got a point. To see him interested and motivated is like being with a different dog. He trots, canters in equal measure. A joy to behold.

We had an easy 5 mile drive to a country park.  ‘ Heaving’ we would say colloquially. It was noon. Parents with their young having a stroll before lunch. Scooters powered by tiny legs. Large helmets wobbling on little heads  Masses of dogs living their best lives, happy and secure  with their people. The kids were excited,the animals busy and gown ups chilled. A perfect picture. The atmosphere reflected that too.

An elderly couple in companionable silence passed us. They held hands and my heart warmed.

The seating at the outside cafe was full. Some leant against a wall or sat down at the waters edge. Most were quite merrily vocal. I wondered if those seated underneath the sheltered area were as warm and as comfortable as those completely outside.

It was only 11 degrees but there was no breeze and warmth in the sun. The reservoir was a hive of activity. Paddle boarders were packing up. We missed viewing their fun. Perhaps the swans were relieved they were going away from their domain? The ducks, many in pairs now heading this way and that. Others seemingly without purpose.

Strangely there was an absence of squirrels. My loss, but HN kicks off and causes a scene, so just as well really.

I suddenly tired .We’d been awake since before 5am,but that was cool. I had turned the light off before 9pm, it’s only fair I get up and tend to my constant companion’s needs. I don’t know which came first, the early nights or the early mornings. Whichever, they have panned out and this is what we do for now.

The clocks will change soon and the powers that be will tell us that the day has moved one hour ahead. Madness? Yes. But that is how the world is operating right now. In a constant state of madness.