In Memoriam, Mr Badger.

A Sunday stroll along the Avon tempted us today. We drove to The Lock Keeper in Keynsham with the doggie in the boot. Took the river path towards Bath and again I was struck with the idea that life on a canal boat has much to recommend it. They were lined up in numbers along the banks. The missus doesn't place much faith in a boat's heat retaining properties come winter (and she doesn't do cold) but I note the new NASA inspired insulating products on the market - could be a goer. Saying that, the boys have just got their rooms to their liking - stereos, computers etc - don't quite know how the boys would feel about downsizing.

Anyhow - the walk was lovely, between the Lock Keeper and a bridge on the Bristol and Bath cycle track. The hawthorns are fruiting everywhere which gave me plenty to munch on. The elderberrys were also in full fruit but they are a bit weedy in flavour - saying that, elderberry wine might be worth trying next year.

The dog had a fine old time in time honoured tradition; chasing sticks, swimming in the river, being told to LEAVE THE COWPATS ALONE!!

We saw a kingfisher flash past in a dash of blue. The fish were literally jumping and the corn (if not the cotton) was high.

We didn't see Ratty or Mole and Otter was conspicuous by his absence. Unfortunately, we did come across Mr Badger. He had obviously been trying to get across the road between pastures but had misjudged just how fast cars tear through around here. He remains a sad little footnote to the day.