Chestnut trees.

An early morning walk and later, in the mountains, put my big toe to the test. I was shocked to observe the whole area, as far as the eye could see looking desolate and dead. The few traces of green were an occasional holm oak or ivy soffocating the trees. A local chap who we encountered coming downhill told us that it was caused by the draught. Rain is expected fairly soon. I hope it isn't too late to save these centuries old inhabitants. There goes impermanence again.
Apart from that, I copied a lovely portrait of the Titch that he had shared on social media, just in time too, as his account was closed shortly after I put a heart on it. Who dunnit?
Dog annecdote. Our front garden opens on to a fairly busy road, so we always close our dogs behind a gate on the verrandah before going out. Grace knows this, and being a shepherd dog, with  Baldrick being her sheep, she noisily herds him up the steps, away from danger. Yesterday S decided to run the car engine without going out so didn't confine the dogs. When Grace saw the engine running, the gate open but couldn't see Bakdrick, she became terrified, searching under car to see if he was there. When she realized that he was on the verrandah, she relaxed. Panic over, sheep safe in pen.
Geriactric day tomorrow. Going to transport/visit very elderly inlaws.
Has to be done.
On a totally different subject, I don't remember who said "evil prevails when good men do nothing" and while this is perfectly true, I can't  help thinking that evil has the edge on good, anyway. While I had always presumed the reverse, it seems that evil is more powerful that good. 04am is probably not a perfect time to be having these thoughts. Good night/morning everyone and sincere gratitude for those who those of you who take the trouble to read my ramblings.