Gave myself the day off today – glorious weather after a few dark and dank weeks. Went for a walk with the family, there being precious little else to do – fortunately we live in the land of the rivers and glorious views are to be had on our doorstep. Re-visited the garden at Neerijnen on the opposite bank, where dahlia’s shone brightly and preparations for winter were under way. In my garden some roses are into a third! flowering, also the datura tries to push ouf a last few blooms while its leaves are yellowing and falling. If they can keep going – so can I.