Ironic

I had to laugh. Otherwise I might have wept. This exhibit of an elegant woman reclining languorously in a deckchair on the beach is in the Castle House Museum, Dunoon - a place I've not set foot in since it was the Public Library. Today, driven by the incessant rain and the need for some variety in company, I paid a visit before it closes for the season - and found this. As the lady lounged and her child played in a coolie hat made out of a newspaper, the rain battered up the Clyde and onto the window through which she smiles so beatifically.

Actually, it was rather sad to see the old and new Dunoon in this way. The most obvious transformation in the contrasted outdoor views was that brought by the motor car; the shore views in particular look much bleaker and less attractive today than they did 100 years ago, and though life was patently much harder there seemed an enjoyment and an innocence that is now lacking.

And the last straw? I found a photo of Mr B conducting the Grammar School band in the '80s. Not everyone can say they found their husband in a museum ...(it's a joke, Grandad!)