Yesterday, at the end of a dull evening, I put out the recyling bin. It wasn't quite full. I wheeled it across the small patch of grass, through the gate and onto the pavement.

As I crossed the grass a wonderful scent hit me. It was still there as I reached the pavement and richer still as I returned across the grass.

In the dark, I couldn't think what it was. Then I saw the honeysuckle - almost white in the moonlight.

That honeysuckle is in my garden but its scent has nothing to do with me.

I'm the sort of gardener who lets things alone - though occasionally I hack back or plant

It's gone midnight and there's still washing in the machine. I'm plainly turning into an eccentric old lady - but what's so bad about that?

I've just hung up the first load of washing. Some had to go on the radiators - the house is going to be SO hot tomorrow! - but apparentlt teenagers need to wear the same clothes every day. Favourite clothes are on the heaters. The rest is out on the line.

The big problem with hanging clothes on the line at night is the moths. As soon as the door opens, they're attracted by the light - and hanging up the washing at midnight in the dark would be too

Do you ever get the feeling you'd like to say goodnight to someone?

I do.

Mostly it's allright being the only grown-up. And it's a very long time indeed since I came home to a hug or queries about how my day had been. Mostly it's easier being alone.

In theory I could always ring someone for a chat. But you know how it is - I don't like to be that pathetic, newly single person who rings just as a favourite TV programme comes on. So weekends are just a bit lonely.

And it's nice to say goodnight to someone.

So goodnight, all of you reading this. Sleep well. And have a good week.

(Isn't