In recent days Ann has has a sore back and thankfully, her hotel did not need workers from her agency during the same period. So we spent more time together, a precious commodity for both of us.

This gave us the opportunity for some modest gadding about. We lunched at the inexpensive Japanese cafe Hana in Leura, rode bikes down to Lake Woodford and visited the Thai temple in Annandale. We went to the small but friendly Mid-Mountains Festival (where Tom was appearing in a flashmob dance routine) and did Christmas shopping in the City and back here in the Mountains.

Now she is back at work and alas, I have only a few photo memories to remind me of this happy time.