Wandering Minstrels .

Being a dour recluse by nature, I am always uneasy about being serenaded by singers who want to entertain you at your table as you dine.

Often they will ask you to suggest a song for them to perform.

I usually ask for "Old MacDonald had a farm". They undoubtedly know it, but they are generally reluctant to sing it.

Result - they move quickly to another table and relative peace returns.

About Rare Birds

For someone who until a few years ago, believed that all small birds were "baby" birds, my wife has been extremely fortunate in having observed some rare species in the wild.

She once told me that she has seen an Osprey snatch a fish from the river Dart. I didn't believe her, so she showed me it and darn me she was right.

Yesterday she saw a rare Great Grey Shrike in our garden.

I just wish I could see some rare'uns.