Swimming

A fantastic day. After a productive morning thinking about my dissertation, I met James in town on the motorbike and took him back to mine. The sun was shining, and we sat with iced tea to watch the bees work the flowers around us.

Noon came and went, and we cycled along the canal to the swimming place. Unlike others nearby, you can guarantee that this one will be free. The water is smooth and welcoming, a silky cloak on your skin.

We swam, sunbathed, swam, and after a while we wondered off to get a coffee. Here, we hatched the evening plans - to drive in my newly acquired car to Devon, where James had a friend that he'd like to visit.

The cycle home was perfect. The sun was starting to set, casing long shadows through which you would pass and the air would cool you. A packed dinner and off we set, my first long drive, ever.

After a few map-mistakes we found our way to a small country pub, where we were to meet said friend, Holly. A quiet pub, long stares and quiet conversation.

Holly turned up with her dad, and we made the dark trek to her house in convoy. Deep Devon lanes led up to the house.

Her parents gave us a warm welcome, with seafood risotto and all the homemade cider we could drink. We stayed up into the early hours.