Montane

Some (but not so many) years ago, I wanted a nice soft shell jacket. It seemed something of an extravagance, so every time I cycled to work instead of getting the bus I made a note, and when I had 'saved' the £60 I bought the jacket. It was very good; it no longer fits me and the zip is dodgy, but I have passed it on to my sister.

How times change. I got home on Friday after cycling in the rain and my waterproof trousers weren't; I took my old rucksack walking yesterday and remembered why I dislike it. So today I went and bought some new waterproof trews and a bag...£145 so easily parted with (and that was a good deal on the rucksack).

The weird thing is, thinking back to that softshell, and my commutes to Milton Keynes, what I am remembering is my next door neighbour's guinea pigs, who used to squeak loudly in the back garden. And then those commutes, the first half along the grand union canal, which was invariably quiet and beautiful.