We've been to the dentist. All well. I love being told to make an appointment for six monthly check-up. Good grief...it will be November! And the shops will be playing early Christmas carols. 
AlieO You hardly left my thoughts throughout yesterday. If only we Kitcheners could rally and be of useful service to you. Virtual hugs fall a heck of a long way short of the actual support that your family needs right now. J's partner shouldn't have had to deal with providing food for the influx of visitors. Someone needed to rally the troops, organise and delegate. I nominate you, AlieO . You must be reeling from the suddenness of your daughter's death. I cannot imagine how you must be feeling. I keep thinking of the little baby.
After all the trials, troubles and tribulations you've suffered and dealt with, regarding the neighbours from hell...a bolt from the blue has negated the on-going frustrations and put things into crystal clear perspective. 
You lot have been mightily busy since I last popped. Talk of ponds and fish, rogue bluebells and forget-me-nots and an absent cuckoo. 
janer the business with the visiting duck had me chortling. Oh my goodness...to have an eye peering at you from beneath the rose bushes must have given you such a fright. Eek!
During the wickedly strong winds of winter, MacSporran had to tether the trunk of the Bird Cherry tree to a concrete block. The ground, being sodden, was beginning to lift around the roots. Not only did the ancient tree survive but it is a delight now that it is heavy with blossom.
Our boggy bit of garden is smothered in golden Marsh Marigolds. The gorse is striking and the wild, yellow Iris are almost ready to burst into flower.