Rooftop Reverie

One of my favourite things about summer, is sitting on the roof. I tried it a little during winter, and it really was quite exciting running in rooftop snow. But nothing really beats sitting back, blinking into the sun, and enjoying a London breeze.

It's a wonderful spot. I can see to St Paul's (one of Finnegan's favourites!) and just sit and think for hours. There's a bit of re-planting needed, now that winter is over, but that's a lot of fun. Although Finnegan seems to be labouring under the misapprehension that planting means removing from pots, rather than securing in pots. But I am sure he will get it eventually. Really he is just trying to help, and his heart is in the right place.

So while I sit back and relax in the sunshine, Finnegan remains passionate about his de-potting enterprises, largely to accumulate as many crunchy plastic things he can chase around the roof. Those plants in terracotta pots appear to have escaped his endeavours ... for now.

The other thing we both love about the roof, is the warm floor (what a funny thing to say ... a roof with a floor!) and sitting chewing chewy things for hours in the sun.

The sun makes me so sleepy though. Although to be fair, I do spend an inordinate amount of time sleeping. But it's when I do my best thinking I feel.

Well, here's to summer barbecues and breezy days. What more could a Bedlington Terrier ask for?

Outdoor Chairs

You might have heard from Finnegan the Otterhound that today was a very big day out.

So I took the opportunity to test a new chair. The slatted seats along the River Thames are romantic and robust, albeit a little uncomfortable for an unconventionally-shaped human (like a dog, for example).

Nevertheless, it gave me a wonderful opportunity to elevate myself, ever so slightly, to enjoy the breezes and bright lights of London. Such a magical place.

Meanwhile, there is also a new innovation in seating in my home. Finnegan and I have been given two giant bean bags. Quite honestly this is one of the most magnificent things I have ever encountered. I can't help but submerge myself within the cocoon that immediately embraces me whenever I climb on board. And it becomes almost impossible for Finnegan to negotiate the beany waves, leaving me utterly undisturbed whenever I have the need for some quite reflective moments. Bliss.

And they are "Finnegan ready" and prepped for outdoor use. So as soon as the volcano clouds pass and the warm weather begins, I anticipate some lovely lounging for rooftop barbecues. Now that's what I call design.

And of course, it's perfect after a big day out ...

Views from the favourite chair

One of those interminable property programmes said, "lie on your back in a cluttered room to see the size of the room by looking at the ceiling."

Well, far be it from me to comment on the clutter in my home, since most of it is created by me and my counterpart, Finnegan the Otterhound, as well as an insurmountable quantity of books. But quite honestly, have you heard of anything more undignified (or indeed unhygienic) than lying on your back on a stranger's floor to look at their ceiling? Goodness knows what's on that floor (although I do sit on the floor of the Tube from time to time ...).

But at home it's another matter, so I considered this viewpoint from my favourite chair. But I am unconvinced. Doesn't it defeat life's purpose to remove the clutter and stare at the cornices? Let's enjoy the clutter and revel in the detail. Give me the floor any day.

Favourite Chair

Every dog should have a favourite chair. Here's mine. It has quite a history. I've knocked my teddy bear over a little in this photo though, but otherwise this bear is a good and comfortable chair buddy. As long as Finnegan the Otterhound doesn't eat him!

Finnegan is just a baby though. I presume that spending enough time with me he will grow into the picture of social etiquette that I am. Although we had a long walk today he has now woken up and is ready to play again with his squeaky ball and orange toy (his favourite - it used to be Roman the Cat's, then I inherited it, and now Finnegan has appropriated it ... I guess that's 21st-century recycling isn't it).

Anyway, despite his irritating adolescence (that's optimistic) he is still rather a lot of fun and I do love having someone to run with in the park whenever I please. In fact, I like him so much, I even let him sit in my favourite chair ... from time to time.

Every dog should have a favourite chair.