"Muddy"

Our final port of call in the Old Dart was the lovely village of Sherfield-on-Loddon in Hampshire. Alice renewed the acquaintance of the younger Pretsells, "Muddy" and "Dit". The acquaintance of Meggie would be an understatement, as Alice followed Meggie's movements and actions with a religious fervour. Meggie accepted this hero worship with good grace and the confidence that this was only her due.

Meggie has been enormously helpful both during the visit - encouraging Alice to walk, setting a good example of crafting (including getting mildly dirty hands), eating her greens and holding her own milk vessel - but also since we departed. Alice's adoration knows no bounds and the information that "Meggie sleeps on planes", "Meggie wears her hat when she goes out in the sun" and "Meggie goes to bed after her story" has warranted swift copycat action from young Alice. Easily the most popular new friend of the trip, I am just wondering how long I can milk this memory...

Tomorrow, while Stu plays an early round of golf, I think that Alice will learn that "Meggie sleeps in until at least 8am and then sits quietly while her Mummy has a leisurely breakfast while gossiping with Auntie Kirrily". Will report back soon on whether this works.