On Monday it was Sophie’s birthday – 26! I do find that hard to believe: that I am a father to a 26 and 23 year old! Sophie and Becky went to London to see Benson Boone, and by the sounds of it, it was an excellent show! Brian May was a guest appearance at the end, accompanying the boy Benson in a rendition of Bohemian Rhapsody.
For me, a far more mundane week, with a return to school, and dark evenings to walk home in. It does, however, remain remarkably warm – still no need to break out the winter clothes and coats. In the garden, my geraniums remain in full bloom, ably supported by the Bizzie Lizzie’s that keep on doing their thing, and offset by the lush green growth of some nasturtiums (which are also sported the odd orange flamed flower). There is a general dampness to the weather (and we’ve just had a quick downpour, soaking me as I rushed to retrieve the washing) but its not been too wet this week, although that is due to change in the coming days.
Progress is being made in the fungus gnat problem, the sticky traps are showing a much reduced incidence of the annoying insect, although I did give up on my avocado plant today, and took it to the compost bin: it had suffered through my reduced watering regime, with leaves curling and blackening, plus it still seemed to have a significant infestation, as manifested by both the the number of gnats on the yellow sticky trap, plus you could still see the little blighters crawling around the surface. For recording purposes, I took some photos of some of the yellow traps in my room before I replaced them today, after a week. (The one’s in Sam’s room I changed on Wednesday)
Today, I refereed on the Bridgwater District League – was aske by Keith to do so on Wednesday as they were short of refs, so I agreed. First ten minutes I was doubting my decision, but once I’d established myself on the game, and everyone recognised my levels and tolerances, I did come to quite enjoy myself. Of note was when one player commended me on a good advantage played, another when, with only about 10 mins to go a player from the losing side (8-0 down at this stage, ended 10-0) asked if I was a new ref. I explained I used to do this league, but hadn’t done for a while – he was very complimentary, him and his mate agreeing that I hadn’t got anything wrong. I’m not going back to doing this every week, but I am enjoying my refereeing at the moment, at whatever level.