In spate

We've had some steady rain and this makes the river angry. I was concerned that the dog might not cope with the much faster running river, but in fact she led the way leaving me with no option but to follow. The swimming diagonal into the flow trick seems to work.

A couple of years ago I did my usual lakeshore route after much heavy downpour and the river was the highest I have seen it. No dog with me this time. Having decided it was chicken to retrace my steps I choose my launching point with care and manfully struck out but was quickly taken by the raging current far beyond my intentions and over some rocks that bruised my legs - I thought at one point that I was done for but eventually managed to haul myself up onto the bank and limped back home. I do not recommend such foolishness.

Fish pie and dogs

This afternoon I cooked fish pie served with sautéed courgettes and garden peas - see my 'Food' page. It worked. Vive ma mère! I took the dog on my lake run before serving the meal. The dog actually belongs to someone else but I exercise it: why? Partly because he is away at college and partly because she is good craic. She loves the water so isn't fazed by the need to swim the river, but she doesn't approve of the mud. Only a very good friend will allow you to enjoy being lonely without wanting to butt in. On this score a dog must be a very good friend.