a long few days

The loss of the stinky little black dog left such a hole in our day to day activities that we have had to fill the gap with two small cocker spaniels! They took a week to find, and several pups were inspected throughout the county. However, yesterday big boy and I made our way to Cambridgeshire (a 2 hour drive) and brought home two sisters. We were lucky and had pick of the litter, 5 girls and 1 boy, and it was very hard turning down all the others. We only went for one, but two of the critters seemed to find their way into our hearts. Seem to be settling in fine, and have had first jabs and health check at vets today. All fine. Been wormed too, so its a tough day for small dogs

The heat is keeping all visitors to salt mines very, very happy, and big boy enjoyed a great 'leaving school forever' camping party in glorious sunshine last Thursday evening. No photos, all went well. Mini Glastonbury once again in field.

Strange photo of arm probably needs some explanation. Baby boy's school house is called Lumley. Today was Sports Day. Lumley prefects drew L on their cheeks with greasepaint, and also wrote 'Lumley' down their arms. It was a hot day. The evidence is clearly burned onto his skin. He thinks its funny....

Yellow horse is standing in the shade of the walnut tree during this hot weather, and saving his energy not moving about too much. The uncomfortable effect of this lack of action is water retention in his external sheath. It must be painful. Its full and warm to touch. After exercise tonight looked much better, so lets hope it cools slightly and he walks about more, or he may need some sort of water reduction treatment. He is very patient about having his bits pulled about I must say!

More puppy pics to follow.