Bing cleared out the dresser, and cleaned it, though was interrupted all day by visitors, first Doding's boss, the Head of the local Department of Social Welfare, then cousin Theresita, recently retired from the Ozamiz Post Office, then Michelle Abelidas, Irene's youngest (of nine), who came for CV advice.

I had some good excercise, digging a culvert by the side of the road, removing earth and stones that had encroached onto the road. Later I picked up all the litter on the playground area opposite, and lit a fire. Cut down dead banana leaves, which burn quickly. In between, drank pints of water and read 'Box o' Tricks': The Pedlar Palmer Story, a 600 page boxing tome, written by the great-grandson of the Pedlar's wife's sister.

We've only been in Colupan 11 days, but the place is looking the best it's ever been after returning from a long time away. Aloy emptied and cleaned the pond yesterday which is now protected by a large canopy, which protects it from the sun. At least now we can clearly see the fish - 10 big ones and about 100 small ones. The lawnmower is not working, as usual, so am strimming the grass each day - I get about 5mins for each charge.