100 Days

It’s nice for me to get a word in edgewise. I didn't know Percy could be so verbose.

All too easy I get distracted about the challenge part of this blog. It’s far nicer to be recounting the fun we’re having together, but I have avoided the more chewy topics and feel I should acknowledge them from time to time.

This last week has been huge fun with Percy, however, there has been a cost. I have shoehorned my work/life around his walks and the impact has been quite significant. This morning I began my yoga at 0645 just so that I could fit in a dog walk before my day’s activities. The pressure came solely from the ‘threat’ of high temperatures today. And, because of family commitments, an evening walk will not be possible. Yesterday, I had a quick scoot around the village in the morning as I had to go out. Instead of my yoga sessions and his walks being relaxed affairs, I rushed them both. I felt as though I'd given each important area only about 50% of my best efforts. 

On day 9, when we had our long afternoon walk, it took me 40 minutes to bathe Percy and sort out the towels and things I used to clean him up. The walk consumed my afternoon completely. It was as though I’d gone into overdraft situation and I have spent the next few days trying to catch up, trying to repay the debt.

These revelations sound terrible to me. This is the reality of owning a dog. It’s what I signed up for. It is reality rather than the romantic view of dog ownership. If I’m honest, there’s no difference in Percy. He isn’t any more content than he was -from what I can tell-; he isn’t slimmer, more energised, or any the less dopey. What I’m hoping to achieve in the coming weeks is a transition into a new ‘normal’ so I can cope with early morning yoga or evening walks that don’t feel rushed or squashed in. I’ll let you know how it goes. In the meantime, Percy is here again. Apparently, he's no less needy for all the walking.

Dinner was yummy -spinach with turkey and lamb tripe- on my sticky-licky mat, which meant it lasted a good 10 minutes rather than golloping it down from a bowl, which takes me all of 10 seconds.

Sarah’s making so many changes to fit my walks in, I feel guilty for making her take me out, but hey, it was her idea! So… Playing with Monty this morning was awesome. Barky dog didn’t get anywhere near me when she passed by, but we bumped into and I played with beautiful Brownie, the sticky, toffee treacle coloured cockapoo. It was a delight. I recognised her scent from the lamppost the other day, there’s no way I could forget it. She smells heavenly. She was quite bouncy with me today, kept getting me to pounce with her. I wonder if she likes me… like-likes me, that is. I’ve asked Sarah to make sure I look perfect before we go out tomorrow, in case we bump into her again. She has eyes the colour of doggie choc button eyes and a silky coat which is so soft. It has a gentle curl to it; and has the waggiest tail. For today, she is my most wonderful love. I wonder who it might be tomorrow?

Sleep well friends, happy weekend to you all xxx

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It’s nice for me to get a word in edgewise. I didn't know Percy could be so verbose.

All too easy I get distracted about the challenge part of this blog. It’s far nicer to be recounting the fun we’re having together, but I have avoided the more chewy topics and feel I should acknowledge them from time to time.

This last week has been huge fun with Percy, however, there has been a cost. I have shoehorned my work/life around his walks and the impact has been quite significant. This morning I began my yoga at 0645 just so that I could fit in a dog walk before my day’s activities. The pressure came solely from the ‘threat’ of high temperatures today. And, because of family commitments, an evening walk will not be possible. Yesterday, I had a quick scoot around the village in the morning as I had to go out. Instead of my yoga sessions and his walks being relaxed affairs, I rushed them both. I felt as though I'd given each important area only about 50% of my best efforts. 

On day 9, when we had our long afternoon walk, it took me 40 minutes to bathe Percy and sort out the towels and things I used to clean him up. The walk consumed my afternoon completely. It was as though I’d gone into overdraft situation and I have spent the next few days trying to catch up, trying to repay the debt.

These revelations sound terrible to me. This is the reality of owning a dog. It’s what I signed up for. It is reality rather than the romantic view of dog ownership. If I’m honest, there’s no difference in Percy. He isn’t any more content than he was -from what I can tell-; he isn’t slimmer, more energised, or any the less dopey. What I’m hoping to achieve in the coming weeks is a transition into a new ‘normal’ so I can cope with early morning yoga or evening walks that don’t feel rushed or squashed in. I’ll let you know how it goes. In the meantime, Percy is here again. Apparently, he's no less needy for all the walking.

Dinner was yummy -spinach with turkey and lamb tripe- on my sticky-licky mat, which meant it lasted a good 10 minutes rather than golloping it down from a bowl, which takes me all of 10 seconds.

Sarah’s making so many changes to fit my walks in, I feel guilty for making her take me out, but hey, it was her idea! So… Playing with Monty this morning was awesome. Barky dog didn’t get anywhere near me when she passed by, but we bumped into and I played with beautiful Brownie, the sticky, toffee treacle coloured cockapoo. It was a delight. I recognised her scent from the lamppost the other day, there’s no way I could forget it. She smells heavenly. She was quite bouncy with me today, kept getting me to pounce with her. I wonder if she likes me… like-likes me, that is. I’ve asked Sarah to make sure I look perfect before we go out tomorrow, in case we bump into her again. She has eyes the colour of doggie choc button eyes and a silky coat which is so soft. It has a gentle curl to it; and has the waggiest tail. For today, she is my most wonderful love. I wonder who it might be tomorrow?

Sleep well friends, happy weekend to you all xxx

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It’s nice for me to get a word in edgewise. I didn't know Percy could be so verbose.

All too easy I get distracted about the challenge part of this blog. It’s far nicer to be recounting the fun we’re having together, but I have avoided the more chewy topics and feel I should acknowledge them from time to time.

This last week has been huge fun with Percy, however, there has been a cost. I have shoehorned my work/life around his walks and the impact has been quite significant. This morning I began my yoga at 0645 just so that I could fit in a dog walk before my day’s activities. The pressure came solely from the ‘threat’ of high temperatures today. And, because of family commitments, an evening walk will not be possible. Yesterday, I had a quick scoot around the village in the morning as I had to go out. Instead of my yoga sessions and his walks being relaxed affairs, I rushed them both. I felt as though I'd given each important area only about 50% of my best efforts. 

On day 9, when we had our long afternoon walk, it took me 40 minutes to bathe Percy and sort out the towels and things I used to clean him up. The walk consumed my afternoon completely. It was as though I’d gone into overdraft situation and I have spent the next few days trying to catch up, trying to repay the debt.

These revelations sound terrible to me. This is the reality of owning a dog. It’s what I signed up for. It is reality rather than the romantic view of dog ownership. If I’m honest, there’s no difference in Percy. He isn’t any more content than he was -from what I can tell-; he isn’t slimmer, more energised, or any the less dopey. What I’m hoping to achieve in the coming weeks is a transition into a new ‘normal’ so I can cope with early morning yoga or evening walks that don’t feel rushed or squashed in. I’ll let you know how it goes. In the meantime, Percy is here again. Apparently, he's no less needy for all the walking.

Dinner was yummy -spinach with turkey and lamb tripe- on my sticky-licky mat, which meant it lasted a good 10 minutes rather than golloping it down from a bowl, which takes me all of 10 seconds.

Sarah’s making so many changes to fit my walks in, I feel guilty for making her take me out, but hey, it was her idea! So… Playing with Monty this morning was awesome. Barky dog didn’t get anywhere near me when she passed by, but we bumped into and I played with beautiful Brownie, the sticky, toffee treacle coloured cockapoo. It was a delight. I recognised her scent from the lamppost the other day, there’s no way I could forget it. She smells heavenly. She was quite bouncy with me today, kept getting me to pounce with her. I wonder if she likes me… like-likes me, that is. I’ve asked Sarah to make sure I look perfect before we go out tomorrow, in case we bump into her again. She has eyes the colour of doggie choc button eyes and a silky coat which is so soft. It has a gentle curl to it; and has the waggiest tail. For today, she is my most wonderful love. I wonder who it might be tomorrow?

Sleep well friends, happy weekend to you all xxx

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It’s nice for me to get a word in edgewise. I didn't know Percy could be so verbose.

All too easy I get distracted about the challenge part of this blog. It’s far nicer to be recounting the fun we’re having together, but I have avoided the more chewy topics and feel I should acknowledge them from time to time.

This last week has been huge fun with Percy, however, there has been a cost. I have shoehorned my work/life around his walks and the impact has been quite significant. This morning I began my yoga at 0645 just so that I could fit in a dog walk before my day’s activities. The pressure came solely from the ‘threat’ of high temperatures today. And, because of family commitments, an evening walk will not be possible. Yesterday, I had a quick scoot around the village in the morning as I had to go out. Instead of my yoga sessions and his walks being relaxed affairs, I rushed them both. I felt as though I'd given each important area only about 50% of my best efforts. 

On day 9, when we had our long afternoon walk, it took me 40 minutes to bathe Percy and sort out the towels and things I used to clean him up. The walk consumed my afternoon completely. It was as though I’d gone into overdraft situation and I have spent the next few days trying to catch up, trying to repay the debt.

These revelations sound terrible to me. This is the reality of owning a dog. It’s what I signed up for. It is reality rather than the romantic view of dog ownership. If I’m honest, there’s no difference in Percy. He isn’t any more content than he was -from what I can tell-; he isn’t slimmer, more energised, or any the less dopey. What I’m hoping to achieve in the coming weeks is a transition into a new ‘normal’ so I can cope with early morning yoga or evening walks that don’t feel rushed or squashed in. I’ll let you know how it goes. In the meantime, Percy is here again. Apparently, he's no less needy for all the walking.

Dinner was yummy -spinach with turkey and lamb tripe- on my sticky-licky mat, which meant it lasted a good 10 minutes rather than golloping it down from a bowl, which takes me all of 10 seconds.

Sarah’s making so many changes to fit my walks in, I feel guilty for making her take me out, but hey, it was her idea! So… Playing with Monty this morning was awesome. Barky dog didn’t get anywhere near me when she passed by, but we bumped into and I played with beautiful Brownie, the sticky, toffee treacle coloured cockapoo. It was a delight. I recognised her scent from the lamppost the other day, there’s no way I could forget it. She smells heavenly. She was quite bouncy with me today, kept getting me to pounce with her. I wonder if she likes me… like-likes me, that is. I’ve asked Sarah to make sure I look perfect before we go out tomorrow, in case we bump into her again. She has eyes the colour of doggie choc button eyes and a silky coat which is so soft. It has a gentle curl to it; and has the waggiest tail. For today, she is my most wonderful love. I wonder who it might be tomorrow?

Sleep well friends, happy weekend to you all xxx

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It’s nice for me to get a word in edgewise. I didn't know Percy could be so verbose.

All too easy I get distracted about the challenge part of this blog. It’s far nicer to be recounting the fun we’re having together, but I have avoided the more chewy topics and feel I should acknowledge them from time to time.

This last week has been huge fun with Percy, however, there has been a cost. I have shoehorned my work/life around his walks and the impact has been quite significant. This morning I began my yoga at 0645 just so that I could fit in a dog walk before my day’s activities. The pressure came solely from the ‘threat’ of high temperatures today. And, because of family commitments, an evening walk will not be possible. Yesterday, I had a quick scoot around the village in the morning as I had to go out. Instead of my yoga sessions and his walks being relaxed affairs, I rushed them both. I felt as though I'd given each important area only about 50% of my best efforts. 

On day 9, when we had our long afternoon walk, it took me 40 minutes to bathe Percy and sort out the towels and things I used to clean him up. The walk consumed my afternoon completely. It was as though I’d gone into overdraft situation and I have spent the next few days trying to catch up, trying to repay the debt.

These revelations sound terrible to me. This is the reality of owning a dog. It’s what I signed up for. It is reality rather than the romantic view of dog ownership. If I’m honest, there’s no difference in Percy. He isn’t any more content than he was -from what I can tell-; he isn’t slimmer, more energised, or any the less dopey. What I’m hoping to achieve in the coming weeks is a transition into a new ‘normal’ so I can cope with early morning yoga or evening walks that don’t feel rushed or squashed in. I’ll let you know how it goes. In the meantime, Percy is here again. Apparently, he's no less needy for all the walking.

Dinner was yummy -spinach with turkey and lamb tripe- on my sticky-licky mat, which meant it lasted a good 10 minutes rather than golloping it down from a bowl, which takes me all of 10 seconds.

Sarah’s making so many changes to fit my walks in, I feel guilty for making her take me out, but hey, it was her idea! So… Playing with Monty this morning was awesome. Barky dog didn’t get anywhere near me when she passed by, but we bumped into and I played with beautiful Brownie, the sticky, toffee treacle coloured cockapoo. It was a delight. I recognised her scent from the lamppost the other day, there’s no way I could forget it. She smells heavenly. She was quite bouncy with me today, kept getting me to pounce with her. I wonder if she likes me… like-likes me, that is. I’ve asked Sarah to make sure I look perfect before we go out tomorrow, in case we bump into her again. She has eyes the colour of doggie choc button eyes and a silky coat which is so soft. It has a gentle curl to it; and has the waggiest tail. For today, she is my most wonderful love. I wonder who it might be tomorrow?

Sleep well friends, happy weekend to you all xxx

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I was dreaming. Dreaming about running, about chasing my friends, larking about in the fresh air. My paws were twitching and I know I was woof barking as I slept, and it was bliss. Lying in my crate, it was heavenly to have such tangible, picturesque dreams when the back door opened and in came Kim. She is my guardian angel.

Before long I was playing with my friends McGee and Polly Anna; we romped and laughed together and I barked loads. I tried to get into the guinea pig crate as they’re so squeaky and such fun, but I couldn’t. Being with all of my chums was just too exciting. I loved every moment. All too soon, it was time to come home. Once in, I hunkered down for a relaxing nap until Sarah and Keith decided it was time for me to get up… which I have just done.

Walking through the village with Sarah this morning is a distant memory. But, in between I have had the most fun. It’s been a glorious, happy day. Sarah has news to impart about the whole challenge thing, but I'll let her tell you that tomorrow. I'll be able to give you news about Sally my little labrador friend too as Sarah is meeting with her mum tomorrow for some alfresco coffee... I think it's Italian?

Keep well and perky, my lovely friends, chat with you tomorrow when I have recovered from my play date. I’m about to have a sleep on the patio as it is cool out there. Sarah and Keith’s dinner doesn’t smell that great to me, so kip time it is. Love and grungy beard wipes my friends xxx

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It was entertaining enough; I shrieked as loud as I could at the postie and the man with the black and white dog, who has a beard -the man not the dog- although ironically, the dog does too as it’s a bearded collie but his beard isn’t big, it's barely even a beard, it harbours no crumbs of food. Nor is it bushy, he doesn't look like an Alaskan lumberjack, which is what I object to. And if a man has a lumberjack beard, a hat and a high-vis jacket (or any combination thereof) then… well, he gets all the barking he deserves. My beard is my larder. I stash all kinds of mostly unidentifiable things in it. And you know what? I love it. I don’t care if it’s drippy or pungent or sticky or filled with sawdust, leaves, sticky balls from the plants in the garden. It is mine and I wear it with pride… mostly.

Waiting all day for Sarah was no problem. But, I did wonder if we would ever go out. I sniggered to myself a number of times thinking she had forgotten. But, it got ever so hot during the afternoon, so I think she waited on purpose because when we went out, it was glorious.

Keith came along too, which was fun as he always does daft things to make me laugh. We walked round the village and there’s one little section round by the old chapel which gives me the goosiebumpies. I was concentrating on sniffing the ground to see whether there was any ectomorph or other signs of ghostly shenanigans. It is important work and takes a deal of concentration. I was ‘in the zone’. My nose was filtering millions of airborne messages -one or two from rather interesting smelling bitches, who I must look out for- when suddenly I came across something out of the ordinary. It was musty. The air all around tasted ancient and imposing. I stopped dead in my tracks, certain I had found the trail of a something undead, when Keith stomped up behind me and nearly made me ‘dumpling’ on the spot. You know the worst thing of all? It was hilarious. He cracks me up when he does that. When he bent down to wrestle with me, I made sure I wiped the grungiest part of my beard on him. He hates that as he knows what lives in it.

By the time we were home it was time to settle so my blog didn’t get written. Sarah really can be so tardy. I shall have to have words with her. Not yet a while though. Something is afoot today. I was up at 0730! What kind of merry hell does she have in store for me today? Catch up later lovely people. It's sleepy time now xxx 

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I legged it down the side of the cornfield and waited for Sarah to catch up. I walked alongside the hawthorn and could hear the buzz from the overhead electricity cables which makes my fur feel all riddled with static (we don't like them). The stream was purring as it ambled alongside me as I trotted ahead. I had to stop again and wait for Sarah but as she neared me I ran off again, giggling as I went, until I reached the wooden bridge where you guessed it. I waited once more for Sarah. It was so pleasant; I watched two kestrels rise from the corn and butterflies nose their way through the long grass; halcyon days.

When she finally caught up with me, we crossed the bridge together. I didn’t care that I’d waited an age, nor that I was now boiling hot because I’d run super fast as I’d hopped and bopped through the thick carpet of clover which ran alongside the stream, I simply didn’t care!

But then, disaster. They’d buried the stream. I could see it. I could smell it. I could heart it. I could almost taste it, but I couldn’t bloody drink it or paddle in it! The bank is now steep and high and covered in stinging nettles and even though we walked the length of it, there was no opening for me to get through. Worse still. You remember the sunshine I was talking about, well it was streaming from the sky onto us and was searing hot. That, my friends, is the closest to a stream I got. Humph!

But, paint me yellow and call me sunshine, I was still happy (stole that line from a movie, I just love how happy sounds). I carried on skipping through the clover as we walked all the way round the field until we reached the road to home. It was hard going so I’m not without complaint. I had to have a lie down here and there (as well as a little roll in something disgusting smelling). I was hot, my feet ached, and we'd broken the usual rule of not walking in the heat. I’ll cut Sarah some slack though, as it was unexpected and unpredictable. The Alexa woman in a little box on the shelf had read us the weather recipe and Sarah had checked the Met Office and there was no mention of sunshine. But we lived to tell the tale, so what does it matter?

Sarah gave me a cooling bath when we got in. I’ve had my meat and spinach and she had lemonade and a bowlful of nuts. She takes my breath away with what she considers tasty. Strange old bean, but I love her.

It was still a fabulous walk, and it was the best distraction for me on what was quite a stressful day. My bestist friend Sally is an unwell dog today. She had to have an operation and now has what looks like a worm hanging out of her side. According to her mum it’s a special straw for the gunge to flow out of! Sounds gross, but I’m sure she’ll feel better if she knows you’re all thinking of her and sending her lots of head pats. Waggy tails to you all. I’m off for a kip x x x

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About our adventure. Well, Sarah has struck gold. Not bite in your teeth as though you are a pirate type of gold but chamomile. Apparently, it makes a good drop of tea once you dry the buds out. When we walked to the corner of the field the other day, Sarah stopped and sniffed the air. Once again, I thought she was trying to copy me but soon realised she was genuinely sniffing to smell something. It seemed to please her, so I had a sniff myself and noticed a sweet aroma was filling the air. Unsurprisingly, it smelled flowery, delicate almost fragile somehow. I soon got bored so ferreted about in the oilseed crop she took some photographs, as I have mentioned in an earlier post, and when she got home, she checked them out on the Google machine which confirmed her thoughts.

Today, as usual she went armed with little bags for my dumplings but she used one of them to harvest the heads of some of the chamomile plants. She’s going to dry them out and take them to my nanny’s house, which is sweet of her as she knows nanny likes to drink calming tea. For comfort, I like to lick my paws, as it so relaxing. The fur is smooth and the skin warm and tingly and smells of beef; nirvana....I kinda get into a zone when I do it, getting slower and slower before reaching a place of contentment. I feel all Zen and chilled out, it is lush. But each to their own. If she’d rather drink tea than lick her feet, then that's what she must do.

According to Sarah, this week will not be as busy and I’m pleased to note there has been some collecting up of the stuff which amassed as she put together her bits and bobs for the farmer’s market. You never know, she may even get around to finishing the bathroom wall, but I won’t be too hasty in suggesting this as a possibility! Peace, man, and enjoy your toes you should try it, you really should! Until tomorrow, woof woof! x

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I loved it. Off the lead, I bounced and popped about, sniffing everything and chasing noises and rustles in the oilseed crop. It was impossible to see what was making the noises -could’ve been brown bears for all I know- but it was wonderful fun and as I ran and ran, I could hear buzzards calling while bits of grass wnt up my nose and in my ears making me quiver. It gave me that lovely but horrid tickly feeling. Reconnecting with my inner puppy brought me such joy I thought I might explode.

The weather on Saturday was just perfect. However, waiting all day for Sarah to get herself ready wasn’t fun. I mean, how does she expect a dog to cat nap when he knows a walk is imminent, it’s not relaxing. I’d kinda hope she’d cave too and not take me! Mean of me. But hey! She’d been busy preparing for a farmer’s market all week, was tired and busy, so I was lucky to get a walk. I heard her say to Keith that Saturday was one of those days that I wouldn’t have had a walk prior to the challenge. She’d already done 7,000 steps around the house, so going out for a walk wasn’t in the forefront of her mind, but we did it and she said she felt great after. You know, I believe I helped her to relax.

We headed to the bottom of the second field and struggled to get over the little wooden bridge, but I was desperate to see Sausage and Bacon in the next field. Sarah insists on calling them Salt and Pepper as though it’s funny, some kind of mad aunt or dad joke, but it’s really not funny and is nonsensical. I didn’t get to see my piggy friends as we couldn’t get as far as the stile into their field, but my heart was happy just to be near them again. I almost fell into the badger set, but that’s usual for me as I try to run around it as fast as I can as though it's a wall of death. It's massive! I reckon Sarah could fall down it too!

Now, it's not unusual for Sarah to stop and take photos,  but some pictures she took in the corner of a field have proved quite interesting. I’ll share more in the coming days, just watch this space for updates.

On Sunday I had the best kind of day. I slept. I slept and slept and slept in my crate and it was absolute heaven! Sarah and Keith packed the car up with books and bags and paintings. They headed off for their little sale -which they enjoyed- until they arrived back home in time for the rain. Only it didn’t rain. Sarah and I stepped into the field once again -she wanted to double check her field find of Saturday- but by the time we got to the top of the first field the rain clouds had passed over and the sun was shining. And as I bounced and popped, the sun got warmer and warmer and I got hotter and bits stuck to me. The tickles made me sneeze and there were no bear sounds to chase, although the buzzards were circling. We walked as far as the wooden bridge, then turned towards home. I was hot and dirty and looking forward to a lazy evening. After a roast dinner for Sarah and Keith which had my mouth watering, I snuggled in between them on the sofa, and as they petted me they shouted at the TV, watching the ball chasers; Sarah’s cousin Gareth looking very concentrated and serious. The scratching and petting was so voracious I had to jump down. I thought I might end up with a bald patch!

I realise, I bang on about these fields and things. It must be quite confusing, so have asked Sarah to draw a map of the village and the places we walk. That’ll keep her quiet for an hour or six!! xx

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When I read the challenge article in the Guardian I wasn’t too interested in the concept of wearing the same dress for 100 days (although I do like a bit of Merino). I was, however, interested in how people work through challenges  by committing to something within a community. To date, walking has been a pleasure, so it took me by surprise this morning when I didn’t want to shift myself out of my pit.

A migraine woke up with me this morning and feeling ‘thick headed’ it was tempting to put off walking the dog, but my commitment to him meant I couldn’t. My migraines are much less intense than they used to be thanks to a good probiotic and antihistamine, but I now struggle to recognise them and can be inclined to leave taking medication for longer than is comfortable (I thought one was lurking last night, but ignored it). 

I took a tablet whilst Keith and I enjoyed our Friday morning naughty breakfast of coffee and cinnamon swirls, before I put on my big girl pants and headed out (no excuses for the pun!!). An hour later, I felt like a new woman. My head was clear, I’d a good dollop of oxygen charging round my body and felt strong by the time I got home.

I understand enough about physiology and the impact of exercise to know that endorphins released by exercise are enough to make the world a better place. My efforts this morning weren’t about pushing through, this was about optimising my very public commitment to my dog to leverage some self care. And it worked. Experience shows that I would have spent the day dragging myself through the heavy residue of migraine, instead, I can paint the flowers on the bags to sell on Sunday and maybe do yoga a little later on.

Lessons learned: don’t ignore what might be a migraine. Do the walk, you’re worth it. By investing in myself I can be a better companion/carer/friend to those around me, because I feel well.

His Lordship wants his say, so I'll say bye x

I loved today! Now I’ve had a haircut, I can run so much more easily. You wouldn’t believe how stifling and hot wearing a coat can be. Even Maria the groomer couldn’t believe how long my fur had got!

We walked along the jitty (a narrow walkway or alley) on the way to the combine harvester graveyard and there we bumped into Barky dog. She’s basically mad. She growls like crazy at me and lurches towards me, and I reckon she would eat me if she caught up with me. Her owner does too! So we skirted through the human graveyard, which is tiny and quaint but spooky as heck. I looked out for the albino squirrel who lives there, but I didn’t see it. Imagine if the first squirrel I actually caught was that one. OMG it would be hilarious although the village would BBQ me!

Through the back of the village we walked, then into the farm and as we did a murder of crows flew up from the field. It was like being in a Hitchcock film. They were flapping and cawing and diving through the sky; it was bloody amazing but a little scary too. The palaver died down and we were soon over the stile and I was free to run. Sarah has this massive long lead that she can let me run loose on. It’s pretty cool because I can run and run and run but I’m still on the lead. When the sheep are nearby, Sarah reels me in -as though I’m a carp- and brings me to her side. It’s win win, the sheep feel safe and are calm and for me it’s as good as being ‘off off’ the lead. Around us there were tonnes of fresh sheep ‘dumplings’ and I did my best to resist them but they smelled good, of juicy fresh grass; they were warm too so a snuck a few. If Keith and Sarah can have naughty breakfast then why shouldn't I?

The sad looking, rusty old combines were grazing on dusty memories as we passed by them. I was respectful and walked alongside Sarah; they appear doleful with their bent necks  and broken chains but I know they will have had wonderful lives amongst the ears of corn. We walked through the long grass and down to the far side of the hill, where we listened to the skylarks and had a drink. As we wandered back I bounced and popped through the long grass and waded through the boggy bit in the corner. I was cool and happy as we strode up the hill, and Sarah felt better, which made me even happier.

We’re now home and I’m off to sleep on my red cushion. Bollinger has a cat hangover as he stayed out all night but is being cuddled by K'Beera. Keith is working and Sarah is flinging ink around the place. Happy, happy days X X

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We set off for a plod around the village -apparently time was short today- which suited me as a) I’m knackered and b) I love smelling where all my little friends have been. Sadly, we didn’t see Badger or Digger or Bill; we didn’t see any other dogs. But the walk was lovely. There was some sunshine but no wind, well not from me anyhow!

It doesn’t take long to walk round the village except for when I stop and sniff or do my poops. Today we walked passed the village green -don’t go getting all romantic on me- by village green I mean a two foot by 10 foot wide strip of grass. I had my poop and as Sarah bent down to retrieve it I did my Michael Jackson moonwalk, more of a moon scrape, truth be told. It sent grass shavings all over her. She didn’t laugh.

I on the other hand was still chuckling as I pottered down the road where the ironing lady lives and passed the place where the secretary for the parish council lives, and then poked my nose into the hedge where the boy in noisy Subaru lives. But when I came out, oh the pain! I could barely put one paw in front of the other. It hurt like heck, and I couldn’t put it to the floor. I lay down in the middle of the road and licked it, but it still hurt, so I cried and Sarah had a poke about. There was no blood, just pain. Three legged, I hobbled to the side of the road, but in the end Sarah had to pick me up and carry me home. It was as though my leg had fallen off; it was all too much.

Hi all, Sarah here now, Percy has gone off for a whimper. It was certainly odd, so I hoiked him up onto my shoulder and carried him the rest of the way home. Fortunately, we were only about 100 metres from home. I couldn’t see anything when I had a better look so reckon it was just a sting. But it was obviously uncomfortable for him.

He seems to have enjoyed the rest of his day. Quite a while was dedicated to wiggling and rubbing his back into the carpet because he smells of baby-doggie-powder called Stud (which he really isn’t). He wants to smell of beef and sheep and have things growing in his beard again.

The walking is going well. I'm happy that we're not going out the same time each day as that would create a routine and may cause Percy to become agitated. It’s going to be more challenging over the weekend and will take some organising as we have lots of things to do this week. The weather has been a blessing and I haven’t minded getting up early to fit things into my day, I’m feeling much less sluggish too. As yet it hasn’t been a struggle but it is early days and who knows what challenges will present themselves… Hang on, Percy wants another word before we go.

A couple of bits really: it has broken my sleep and I no longer sleep all day long, Sarah may like this but I’m missing out! And, there is no such thing as just a sting, my paw still hurts. I’m being brave about the whole thing! Off to bark at random things in the hope of getting some tea now. Woof woof xxx

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We walked up the hill to the church… oh, sorry to digress for a moment here. Coming from the Chiltern Hills, Sarah always believe Northampton was pretty flat but let me tell you, it isn’t! The hills are pernicious little beasts; they’re not like that Scafell Pike place I had to walk up (which I loved, especially because some people there thought I wouldn’t make it) but they drag upwards at an incline just enough to get your heart racing and your legs screaming. Do not let them fool you. Any how, we walked up to the church, and I sniffed just about every blade of grass going. It must’ve taken us at least 20 minutes to walk about 1/4 of a mile. Not helped because they haven’t cut the grass. It went right up to my armpits and kept getting in my mouth, so of course I had to sniff and taste it.

The wind was blowing quite hard, and the sun was shining. It was perfect walking weather, and we were both content in each other’s company. Sarah plodded along behind me (rightfully so) as we passed the fields, and the sheep yelled hello at us as we trotted by. And then, as Sarah watched the buzzards and enjoyed the swifts skimming the top of the corn, I was free! She took the chain off my bra, and I ran as fast as my legs would carry me to see if I could find my horsey friends, but they weren’t there. I guess they were sleeping or something. We walked to the unmade road where I stopped for a wade in the puddle (which, according to Sarah, wasn’t the most thoughtful thing for me to do), but whatever! I didn’t care that it caked my belly in sandy mud!

By the time we headed home the rain began to speckle the lane and us. Not much, just little droplets of refreshment that were welcome but surprising. I’d checked with the Alexa machine what the weather recipe would today and she hadn’t mentioned rain, and before we knew it, it went a little bit mad. It lashed down, soaking us in seconds. I laughed so hard inside myself as Sarah’s t-shirt and jeans became heavier and heavier with rain.

She made us wait in the shelter of the young horse chestnut tree until the deluge had passed but it made little difference; we were as wet as wet could be. I didn’t mind, after all my coat is thick, and I knew she would wash me off and give me a good blast with the old huff-puff machine, but Sarah looked a sorry state -which will learn her for getting me out of my bed at such a ridiculous time of the day for the last two days.

Enjoy the footy tonight. Appears my cousin has done a pretty good job of bringing this cup thing home, so pleased he took on board what I said about 3-4-3 against Germany. He’s a good lad and we’re proud as punch of him! Good luck Gareth xxx

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We did the same route as yesterday, but there were no kiddies as it was so bloody early. They were snuggling in their warm crates dreaming of co-co pops and unicorns and nowhere near waking up!! Reluctantly, I’ll admit it was pleasant. The sun was beaming down on us and there was plenty of dew on the grass to have a lick of, and it was great that we didn’t bump into anyone. I was free to stop and sniff the smells and poop where I wanted, although a pigeon startled me at one point and frit the life out of me.

Sarah was better company today as she’d sorted her hair and her Fitbit thingy and wasn’t grumpy with the kiddies or other dogs. She was muttering away to herself about how easy it all seemed, but I reminded her we’re only on day two. The weather isn’t always going to be dry and nice, it’s bound to be raining soon and then she’ll have something to grumble about.

By the time we got back, I was feeling fabulous. Tired but wonderful. Even Sarah reckoned the walk before her yoga was helpful. This afternoon I had a play date with my friends Polly Anna and McGee, and it was heaven. Now though, I’m pooped so am laying in the garden with my chin on my paws enjoying the cool summer evening… even though it is raining! See you tomorrow chummlies, woof woof!!

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After a lot of fuss I had to wait for ages by the gate as she couldn’t find my lead, this is exactly why she should walk me more! In the end I was attached to the chain one instead, which always makes me feel as though I am something to be ashamed of. We set off down the lane but instead of going into the field she kept walking along the road, which was odd. But hey-ho, I could not argue. It gave me the chance to leave some wonderful smells for my mates and catch up on messages from dogs I haven’t seen in ages.

Walking towards the school is horrible. It may be tiny with just 151 kiddies but I don’t like it when they fear me. I want to say hello and play with them, but Sarah pulls me to one side when she can see they’re not sure of me. Today though I had to laugh as I stopped for a poop when some guy came walking past and as he did, he yelled something to his kiddie. I looked round to see why he had to speak loudly and noticed he had a massive beard -which I hate- so I barked like buggery at him! Made him jump… it was the best fun and I'm still chuckling about it some hours later. 

Once passed the school, it was much nicer. We walked up the hill and bumped into a Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy although he was a bit too boisterous, and then another little dog who was very sniffy - not sniff, sniff, sniff but looking down his snout at me sniffy! He may have only been 3 years old but he was much taller than me and I sensed he was judging me. Not too sure why I felt like that but I didn’t like it so I did another poop (I think I managed 5 poops in all. Just sayin').

By the time we were walking back towards home I was feeling whacked, which is bad, but is why she is making me do this. This madness is going to be good for me, but I don’t like it. I don’t want to get out of bed early, but on the other paw I don’t want to feel unfit or uncomfortable. Sarah was grumbling away too as her hair was blowing in her face, so she was hardly having a ball. Her Fitbit wasn’t doing what she wanted it to and she got miffed at seeing so many people in such a short distance. We don’t normally see a sou when we do go out walking; maybe tomorrow we’ll go somewhere else. It really is sleep time now I’ve been awake for nearly five hours! Till tomorrow friends xx

PS I think it's going to be raining tomorrow, lets see how good her word is then!

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