I always take flowers when I go to a house party, so yesterday I took Glads. it was only when I sat on the tube to go all the way to Walthamstow that I noticed these Glads are a bit tired. Still, they're cheery enough.

There was a young East European couple in the supermarket, she was about six months pregnant and they had another pal with them. One of them (I think the Dad-to-be) was taking photos of the other two on the largest iron curtain-looking old camera i've seen in a while. They were choosing potatoes in Morrissons in Peckham. They looked so excited, it was heartwarming to see.

Have I mentioned how much I love this time of year? Probably. Apple pie and figs on the tree. And don't Bert's zinnias look lovely? A little old lady persuaded me to buy greengages in the supermarket, and she was right, they're sweet.

Raising teenagers is taking its toll though. Last night I came in around 9.30. Me: "Have you eaten?" Them: "You didn't tell us to..."

Lord help me.

Oh yeah. I haven't smoked, nor do I desire to smoke. Except when there's alcohol around. So last night was a right off. And the night before. But at any other time, I'm a non-smoker.

I think it's a progress of sorts.