Solid.

The restoration of power and the internet has brought The Rickety Old Farmhouse back into the 21st century. Electricity only arrived in the village in 1950's , so for two thirds of its life the old building has survived by candlelight. It's owners are of the view that two nights without modern conveniences is quite enough.

The road that leads into the village remains closed. A large yellow sign with the words ' Route Barree ' has appeared at the 'Y' junction . The purpose of the large hole that has been dug remains unknown. We would ask the new mayor but he has chosen this week ( sensibly ?) to go on holiday.

Sophie has been completely untroubled by the lack of modern accoutrements. Barbecued chicken with her kibbles has kept the standard of cuisine on offer at an acceptable level.

This morning we're up at five thirty to watch the sun rise slowly over the sunflower fields. Give the young plants a  month and the little village will be surrounded by a sea of yellow. Our daily tour of the village to check on the neighbours horses, donkeys, cows, geese and goats is untroubled. All are glared at. Some minnow fishing is attempted in the stream but the minnows, as always, remain safe.

This mornings croissant much improved. A solid 8.6/10.

 Now, there are three days worth of e-mails to attend to.