The good thing about today's weather was that it kept the crowds away from the world's politest supermarket - so my shop for Ms J proved to be a very pleasant experience - it was good to see the lamb chops were back on the menu after last week's diversion for beef, but otherwise all the familiar selections were on the post it note.

My bigger challenge was trying to keep it all dry on the walk back - by then I already had both wet socks and a wet head - and Ms J's envelope, receipt and list were also falling victim to the conditions and falling apart at the edges. Back at Ms J's we had another chat about the weather and I suggested she might consider a day in front of the TV as the wise choice and leave whatever was happening outside to the ducks, who are clearly far better equipped for these conditions...