The shop's been abysmally emptier than usual this week, and I can't help but imagine it's a lot to do with what I've been reading in the papers.  I never thought I'd say this, but I actually wish a difficult client would stop in - at least the time would pass more quickly.

[Private to self]
Something big is happening.  I don't know what, but it must involve these guests.  I wonder if that Longbottom boy knows much about it.  Not that they've all got some sort of network amongst themselves, but who knows. 

Perhaps life is about to get a bit more exciting for those of us with the right allegiances.

I turn thirty in two weeks, give or take a day or two, depending on whether I want to celebrate on the 28th or the 1st.  This news is both slightly disturbing, and a bit gratifying.  It may be a milestone no one really wants to admit to, but I don't see why I shouldn't have a bit of fun with it.

Who would like to take me out?

Goodness.  This rather elderly regular client at the shop came in this afternoon and, after taking nearly a half hour to look at a few pairs of our most expensive boots, took me aside for my "opinion".  And proceeded to propose marriage.  I hoped he might be joking but I don't like to delude myself.  Needless to say, I had little choice but to turn him down.

I think I will add this to the list of reasons it would be best to leave H&P's sooner rather than later.

Must run to clear my head, then give the garden some long-awaited attention.

But if you're gonna dine with the cannibals
Sooner or later, darling, you're gonna get eaten
But I'm glad you've come around
here with your animals
And your heart that is bruised but bleating
And bleeding like a lamb
Banging like a gong
( Beating like a drum . )

( Application. )