We have had a very hot summer with several periods of canicule where we sweltered in temperatures up to 40°c. It’s a relief that recently we have had much cooler weather and a fair bit of rain. Good for the garden we told each other. But now it’s time for our annual holiday…and the forecast? Rain every day. Hey ho!

As the designated driver these days I no longer have to contend with dramatic announcements from himself that ‘it won’t all go in!’ It does, of course. After over 50 years of holiday packing I can usually assess how much can be squeezed in. He still mutters and I still ignore him…