Two positive things from today. First a wonderful trip down the Firth of Clyde, (apart from the drive through Greenock), to Largs, then the ferry across to The Isle of Cumbrae and a visit to The Cathedral of the Isles. The scenery with the snow covered hills of Argyll and Arran was quite spectacular, and the roads were as clear as a bell. The Cathedral "wows" me every time I enter and today was no exception. Looking forward to my weekend there in April.

The other was Archie's homecoming, although the Silent Assassin isn't a happy cat and has taken to living underneath the couch in the back room or upstairs. The dogs have settled down fine together after a couple of walks with the RW, and an aborted attempt to take the puppy Peanut's virginity by force! That had to be nipped in the bud with this being a Rectory, Peanut out of season, and Archie already "seen to" in that department! We had a walk and a gallop together this evening after a rather pleasant evening with friends, and Archie has been as good as gold. He just enjoys running, walks to heel, and comes back when he's told. Puts the spaniels to shame.

The RW was a bit uneasy about keeping the three dogs and the cat alone downstairs when we were out, but they had obviously been sleeping and everything was just as we left it, including the cat under the settee. It's now bedtime and everyone has settled down for the night, including the RW who seems to zonk out these days after only a couple of glasses of wine. She's cheaper to keep than Archie!