HAPPY BIRTHDAY ARCHIE!

Archie’s NINTH birthday. Incredible! Nine whole years years living with this little bundle of joy. I just wish he could get over his irrational fears - cafes (though he LOVES shops), being in the car (though he likes buses), our fridge, iPads, pinging phones, too many people in his house, Velcro, some dogs (totally random), any postman, not even at HIS door (I think it’s the red jacket) … are definitely outweighed by the charming wee soul that he is - playful, affectionate, tolerant, silly, cute, patient (he’ll pose anywhere for a photo), cuddly, stoic. But most of all, he’s a wee companion.

Actually, he’s been such a boon to our lives. We have met so many people, and made so many friends, because of him. And my step count is 100 times better than it would be without him.

Sadly, Dougal was not well overnight, and so he and his mum could not come for lunch today, though they came to the door with flowers and presents in the morning. We missed them both. 

Pip and his mum came, and Maggie and her mum came. Hazel - dogless - came too. Mind you, she is getting pretty ‘doggy’. She was seen at several points, with a different dog in her lap, given them a massage.

We had a wonderful meal - thank you, JR. And thank you Ottolenghi and Mary Berry.

Elizabeth was intending to come, but had to call off because of a funeral, so she’s coming tomorrow for tea.

Pip and Maggie went home with a slice of birthday cake, made with carrots and (doggie) peanut butter (Extra) Archie didn’t mind sharing his birthday treat. didn’t have any say in the matter…