Category: Monthly Update
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July 2026 (Something & Nothing)

I can best describe July as meh… and that meh doesn’t even deserve the effort of capitalisation. I think the weather has had a part to play but with 3 days to go it’s cloudy and cooling, at least in the mornings, so I thought I better make an effort and write something. Lyn and…
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June 2026 (Island In The Sun)

When an email dropped into my inbox looking for volunteers to work on Lundy Island for a couple of days, it implied that it would be oversubscribed. And after a week had passed of when they would select people and I’d had no notification, I naturally assumed I had not been picked. I’d expected as…
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May 2026 (Italy Part 2)

If you’ve not read part 1, then click here. The next couple of days proved the best, both in terms of weather and exploration. A lot of times these things go hand in hand. This is one of the first holidays I’ve just ‘winged it’, but to be honest, I don’t like it much and…
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May 2026 (Italy Part 1)

I’ve decided to split May into 2 parts and it will focus solely on our holiday to Italy. Part 2 will follow at some point or it’s already here depending on when you’re reading this. This month saw our return to foreign travel as we went to one of our bucket list destinations, Lake Garda…
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April 2026

In April, the author enjoyed their first National Trust day, visiting Saltram Park and Antony House despite the poor weather. The experience included an unexpected ferry ride and the acquisition of a new car. They expressed humor and frustration about their adventures and looked forward to an upcoming trip to Italy.
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March 2026

March was eventful with a new window installed, enjoyable volunteering at Arlington Court, car shopping, and a memorable trip on the Flying Scotsman with family. Spring brings hope for completion of home repairs.
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February 2026

In February, the author reflects on winter maintenance challenges, particularly renovating old sash windows, which reveal the unexpected responsibilities of homeownership. Amidst these tasks, they also volunteer at Arlington Court, gaining a sense of purpose. The month concludes with personal technological improvements and anticipation for upcoming events.
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January 2026

In January 2026, nostalgia prompted some to wish for a repeat of 2016, despite its tumultuous events. The narrator enjoyed bus trips around North Devon, reflecting on personal appearances and sharing too much personal history with strangers. A surprise birthday stay at a quality hotel led to a visit to the threatened Eden Project.
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December 2025

In 2025, the author reflects on an unexpectedly eventful year filled with travel, cultural experiences, and family milestones, including their daughter’s wedding. They successfully opposed a local council plan, engaged with their community through a WhatsApp group, and volunteered with the National Trust. The year concludes with anticipation for 2026.
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November 2025

After an abundant October, November was a bit fallow. I did find out the arthritis in my right foot is a bit more extensive then first thought along with something called Freiberg’s disease which is in all likelihood another gift from when I broke my foot during COVID and nobody wanted to do their jobs!…
