Noble

This Robin looks as though it's posing for a portrait - Van Dyck could probably do justice to this noble attitude and elegant profile, though Rembrandt would doubtless deal more flamboyantly with the light. What it was actually doing though, was guarding a small scattering of bird seed, to make sure no-one else got to eat it. Anyone who thinks Robins are cute can't have spent much time observing their behaviour. Also, it really should have washed its face before posing.

And yes, it was raining. And yes, R and I were back in Stratford for yet more pre-Christmas shopping. And yes, we did indeed share a Christmas sandwich at lunchtime, standing in the Bancroft Gardens, in the drizzle. Turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, spinach and mayonnaise, since you ask. Because we're worth it.