It has been amazing weather here, very hot and dry. My mood has fluctuated and I feel overwhelmed by the sheer weight of all the issues, some big and others small.

I had Ruth and Alex over and they had lots of fun playing around in the sun with the hose and a plastic sheet they use as a slide. England's early departure from the world cup would normally throw Alex into a negative mood. We went outside and he made a perfect barbeque, which gave him a more positive outlook.

Friday night was great.Took a good friend to Nando's in Milton Keynes. Extra-hot Peri peri.Great!

I need to reflect on Thursday. Went to a lunch for Ian Norton, a good friend and colleague. He is one of the most successful scientists/inventors Unilever has left and the work he didn't seem to be valued anymore. So we disposed of 25+ years of experience and productive potential.

I am on the same disposal path and will be unemployed in January. Its just another challenge amidst all the others.