1. Instead of going north into the woods as normal, we decide at the last month to go south instead. We explore the delightful enclave of cottages in the hidden dell, cross the ford – the first I’ve ever seen – and head into the other woods instead.

2. Amidst the chaos of the rehearsal, progress is being made. Some of the good kids from the group are really great, a lot of fun.

3. The air is full of scents and sounds: the fish & chip shop, the curry restaurant, the take-out chinese … and a pipes & drums band playing a concert at the school.