“As a scientist in Britain, I would often busily spend the day not understanding anything at all, failing to get reproducible data, breaking things and swearing. I would often do all of this in the dark, as I used light-sensitive chemicals.”

“Walking a dog in these conditions is deadly. Whilst Archie may only weigh 15 pounds, he can go from 0–60 in seconds and exert the force of a complete team of sled dogs.”

“A very common and significant part of British life, the cheeky pint plays a key role in keeping people sane during trying times.”

“As we drift through the wilderness that is this time of year, I have a little time to reflect. Archie and everybody else are asleep, all the pots are clean, and I’m working on my second cup of tea.”

“I’ve been writing this diary for two years now. Putting my thoughts down has been enjoyable, and documenting this time of my life is kind of fun. I’m slowing down.”

“Raising children is hard and rewarding, and both Bob and Morris seem to be thriving. I’m glad we now have Patterdale Hall. I’m very tired and I need to rest. The Hall is the place where I will rest.”

“The severe drought we experienced in late summer this year has led to several interesting phenomena in the plant world.”

National Public Lands Day is celebrated annually at public lands in the U.S. on the fourth Saturday of September.

“The semester is in full effect. Summer flew by. I saw turkeys again out at the Hall last night. Five hens were on the prowl around the house while I was reading in the great room.”

“An exciting day: Yellow Springs Brewery is making the English pale ale ‘Wyatt’s Eviction,’ and so I shall show up to empty the mash tun and generally get in the way.”