Uni

Proud dad moment: this morning my son was offered an unconditional place at his first choice university. Hardly seems like yesterday he was starting school LOL.

Thunder

 A bit vague LOL....

Drought

Eight areas of England, including my own little patch, have officially been declared to be in drought. As well as setting temperature records, this summer is also said to be the driest for decades. River levels are currently running low, one of the main sources of the Thames for example is said to have dried up.

Read more about the announcement from BBC News.

This official status means water companies can more readily impose measures to protect supplies. Hose pipe bans will no doubt follow very soon although it is likely "essential" businesses such as golf courses will be exempt. Whilst there might be sufficient water for the summer, the feeling is we need to conserve water in case Autumn and Winter are particularly dry.

Hosepipe Ban

Our lovely summer continues. Temperatures are forecast to reach the low 30's, which for many is hot enough LOL. We've not seen sufficient rain to speak of in a good while, the ground is dried out and badly cracked; two water companies have already announced hosepipe bans in parts of their respective areas and it is likely Thames Water will follow soon. 

White

After three years it finally looks like my white agapanthus is putting in an appearance. Quite something isn't it?

Ouch!

Have you seen how much you're currently paying for the fuel to go into your vehicle?!?

Mine wasn't even a full tank, just three-quarters. £102 (or AU$179, US124) is outrageous. Think I need to start digging in my garden for oil...