February is nearly done and a little progress has been made on the three principal fronts. Derby County Show is 'booked' for 'Win a Mini'. I am resolved to carboot weekly at Radford even if it means working solo. My early efforts were at Ravenshead where shoppers were few and my knowledge and skills derisory. 'Mugging up' on utility facts is also part of the daily routine.

A new focus, or rather, a pair of foci, for PD is taking shape. The absurdity of the concept of sacred texts is one. The other will point out the horrors that can ensue when the concrete and available present world is dismissed in favour of a mythical other.

The 'Tango Mango' break was superb, for all that it may have cost me a day or two's Bilborough work. I certainly felt the direct benefit at last night's Njaal and Cidinha class. It was lovely being able to meet Olly over tea and scones in Dartmouth and to hear of his plans. If he can organise a supply convoy in Afghanistan he should become yet more capable at running his own band.

Having spent so many years with no family contact outside the immediate circle whilst at Owthorpe and Colston it is most gratifying that John and I, despite our vastly different pasts, find plenty of mutual interests to share in the present.

Time now to 'blog off' and assault the day's 'to do' list.