Never have I seen the collie as grubby as when we returned from todays walk (she absolutely refuses to wear a coat, much to my disbelief!).  Harrier and I were slightly nervous that it might result in all of us being bathed, but fortunately Mum has settled down to continue work on her previously unspecified green knitting.  Detective work by Harrier has ascertained that it is in fact the trial sample of a knitted bag,( it’s always handy to know what she’s up to).  Aunty Biscuit is sewing bits of blanket together in between enjoying a leisurely cup of tea and rubbing my tummy for me.  Harrier is now snoozing on the sofa and the collie is grooming herself.