Am back from the first real break I've taken this year. Had various things I thought I ought to say, but of course I managed to forget them: carrying a little notebook in my coat pocket is only of use if I remember not to leave my coat at home when going to the other side of the country. Of slightly greater loss was the fact that my wallet was in the other pocket, although thankfully the Better Half had money, and, staying in Dad's flat, we managed to spend very little.

I have fudge for my colleagues but otherwise bought (with the Better Half's money) only one thing: a didgeridoo. Number of musical instruments I own (as well as musical instruments I can't play), ++.

I couldn't help it. The Better Half was looking for gifts for friends in one of those strange little tinkly shops in Newquay (mercifully one with far fewer windchimes than I'd expect) near the end of the day, and when I looked bored waiting for her, one of the staff said I should learn didgeridoo, and that should could teach me to get a sound from it in two minutes.

The next day I went back. She asked if I'd come to buy one: she didn't believe me when I said I had.

So, I can get a sound out of it and varying rhythm looks like it should be much easier than some of the instruments I can play. (Who am I kidding? I only play the guitar, and not especially well). For my next trick, I'm going to see if I can learn circular breathing...