I don't know where we're going, but we know where we are? (Part whatever)

I've had many pets over the years and I've loved each one so much.

I used to think that each one took a chunk of my heart with them when they die and I'd be afraid to take on another, afraid to inevitably go through the pain of loss again.

But the joy of their lives and their love just about outweighs the pain, and in defiance of medical science my heart seems to be able to grow back!

Kate Bush celebration dance sounds fugging amazing! Wish I was joining you. Hope it gets posted somewhere I can watch it. Don't forget to give it loads. Kate used her whole body as a form of artistic expression- her voice, her body, her facial expressions and her eyes. I expect to be able to spot the Kid gurning and flailing like his life depends on it.

I'm currently ironing a frock with my incredibly heavy new iron. Gonna see Grumpy today for the first time in three weeks. He's been transferred to a Community Hospital for convalescence and rehabilitation, where I can visit him for 30mins twice a week by appointment. I'm both relieved to be seeing him again and incredibly anxious about what I'll find when I get there. And yes, he kicked Covid in the nuts. It's incredibly important to be a stubborn old fart in our later years, it seems. I think most of us on here should do alright in that regard....

@bones, sorry to hear about your cat. Hang in there.

@smurfjed

Covid. The people in their are very vulnerable and they are there for intensive physio & OT. If the rehab staff are out with Covid the whole point of the place is moot.

I'm finding you really need to stockpile when special offers are on.

I know not everyone can do that but it does work out in the end.

Breakfast cereals are a big one for me....the ones the kids like are seriously the most expensive (Kellogg's multigrain shapes) so when they are on offer a few boxes go in, even if it means sacrificing something else. I shop in dunnes so I've the 10 off 50 spend vouchers... usually 2. So once I hit the 100 we're done.

I'd love a greenhouse or conservatory.....garden too small though.....joys of living in Dublin...postage stamp gardens

Bones, I'm very sorry to hear about your cat. I've buried many dogs and cats and it's like losing a family member. I get you totally.

When I was in 5th year our beloved dog died, we had her about 13 years. I wrote out a eulogy for her to say when we buried her in the lawn. I was in convulsions crying.

Other pets didn't hit me as hard but I'll always remember that day. And the farmers in the field across the road craning their necks at my "funeral" 😄 but I didn't care.

CJ, Pat McDonagh of Supermacs has article this week about stockpiling long life foods for the winter in case of shortages coming 😔

I was in Dunnes today and got a decent shop for €72. I checked the end of every aisle for bargains and I planned all my work lunches in my head for next week and what we're eating over the bank holiday.

I got some household items too, again looking at what was on offer.

I was scalded I had no €10 voucher though but I got one for next day.

Grem,I hope your back has improved this evening.

It's lashing here, absolutely flogging rain. Sky on ground.

It's going to be a depressing August 😕 unless it picks up.

PS, Duvet. I admire that you often seem to have stuff to go to. You seem to have a nice work/home balance. Keep it lit!

Finally, Sardonicat things sound much improved for your dad. I always think old people have very strong hearts and will and it's most of the battle when they get knocked down.

I disagree totally with this.

It also did not need to be said when someone is heartbroken over their pet. Sorry for your loss Ilovethebonesofyou.

I don't see my dog as "an animal that can be replaced". He is a family member to me and has got me through some tough times.

My friend lost his Dad and his dog of 19 years in the same year. He said the grief was surprisingly similar. He said in some ways it was harder with the dog because the dog was the last link to his Dad (he remembers them both on the Farm Tractor happy out) and because he was the person actually making the decision to put the dog to sleep.

Treat them as family, or don't get them at all.

Watching the incomparable Kate Bush on the Beeb, wondering how the Kid got on at the flash mob.

Grumpy doing 'ok'. He knew me but he's much more confused now. It was lovely to see him and give him a hug and kiss and tell him I love him.

On the subject of beloved pets, my hoard of moggies are emigrating to Scotland in a few weeks. I just can't look after them properly anymore because Dad's needs are so time consuming. I'm heartbroken, but it's for the best. They will be deeply loved and treated like furry Royals at their new home but my heart is very sore over it.

I'll be skyping them!