Skill.

The vet has reduced the Cortisone dosage to one tablet every other day from one tablet daily. A shrug of the shoulders and the sage diagnosis " he'll know when it's time ". No arguing with that. Back home from the surgery via the cafe. A coffee with the peroxide waitress and the beer and absinthe crowd - Wilfs Cortisone driven thirst making quick work of his bowl of water. Home in time to bark at the builders and carefully christen the tyres on each of the five white vans lined up in the courtyard. Job done, a definite bounce in his step that said ' that took real skill '.

In the afternoon another long walk, off the lead, through the walnut groves. Irrepressible boyish delight in the sound the crinkly leaves make underfoot. The afternoon sun warm but not hot. Perfect PON weather for leisurely exploration . A little roast salmon with his kibbles at lunchtime and chicken and rice for dinner. The lip smacking contentment obvious. The way to this boyz heart clearly through his stomach. Time for twenty minutes rug surfing and hunt the meerkat before falling asleep, enthralled with life, in the middle of the hallway. Another very good day. PON's and laughter go naturally together.