(Today, it’s ten years since I bought my first house. I can’t believe I’m starting to measure the time since I did some very grown-up things in decades!)

1. The way she folds the foil – in half, in half again, then a quick flick for each side – is very pleasing.

2. Each section of the pattern is checked one last time then printed out. I staple them together with a note about colour codes. I feel very organised. // The canvas tight on the frame; the excess neatly folded over and secured with green thread. // I’m surprised how fast it goes and the first section is completely before bedtime. I had been a little unsure of the colours but together, it is just about perfect.

3. I look out at the blue night as the discordant notes of Dead Leg (by Admiral Fallow) moan away.