Archie takes the plunge!

Despite the hordes of guisers out last night (kids in the early evening, adults all night, judging by the constant noise) we were guiser free, apart from a friend who had arranged to visit with her daughter and young friend. They were dressed up as witches. Archie didn't bark, but quietly snuck off to the kitchen. The daughter was anxious to see him, (she's met him before) so we brought him into the lounge, where he sat with his face studiously turned away from the white ghostly faces.

Apparently there is an unwritten rule - a pumpkin or some such sign is left at your door if you wish to welcome guisers. Good to know what not to do for next year.

Another glorious autumn day - it was 19° yesterday - summer temperatures! Archie and I set off for a walk (JR is shaking off a cold) with strict instructions not to get muddy. Either of us.

I decided to walk along the canal, as it's a good concrete path and relatively mud-free. We walked right along to the park, and discovered the wee cafe in the narrowboat. And who should we meet inside the cafe, but a gorgeous standard schnauzer, Dascha, and her owners! Dascha harrumphed at Archie as he tried to sniff her personal parts. But she was very tolerant. After our coffee and cake, we went into the park for a run around - well, the dogs did, while the humans chatted about dogs in general, and schnauzers in particular.

But before we reached the cafe, Archie was looking in the canal, there were no ducks or any distractions, and he suddenly - without warning - JUMPED IN! He didn't slip, or fall. He jumped!

JR and I have discussed what we'd do if he fell in a river - of course we'd jump in to save him, no matter what. Well, I had my chance. Fortunately I was nearby, and as he floundered near the edge, I was able to grab his collar without immersing myself. What a silly boy!

Back home, another shower for him. An afternoon/evening of constant snacking and catching up on the whole series of The Code. Unlike the rest of the populace, I don't find Saturday night TV the slightest bit tempting.

This is a drookit Archie standing on the front of the narrowboat. His drowned rat look. No wonder the lovely Dascha spurned him.

PS A year ago today we moved house.