Fred had to go... He and Rusty got into a serious punch-up and as they fought ferociously, Candy and Lux turned on Snooze. I broke it up with a bucket of water, no-one seemed hurt, until I went to dry Snooze off and saw she was seriously bitten on her neck and shoulders. I knew then that Fred had to go, he and Rusty would continue to fight and I couldn't risk any further harm to the dogs I already had. So it was with a very heart that I began the journey that took Fred to the SPCA and Snooze to the vet. But I was very cheered when we reached the SPCA and discovered it to be warm and caring, run by a lovely lady who obviously adored dogs, and promised me he would be well looked after and she would find the best home for him.

I then took Snooze to the vet and although she needed an operation, nine stitches and a drainage tube inserted into her neck she was going to be ok. And she is. Two days later she was back to her normal self, harmony was restored between the pack and life resumed it's calm pattern. A week later Snooze had the drain removed and the following week the stitches came out. I grieved for Fred, but took consolation from knowing that I had probably saved his life and he left me fit, healthy and happy. I hope he has the best possible life from now on, a life filled with sunshine, joy and love. The experience taught me that I can't introduce any more dogs into our household. And five is probably enough. I have to be extremely tactful and give equal amounts of attention to all of them and doing that seems to take up a great deal of time. And I love every second. I take them for a walk in the evening; we see no-one and watch the sun set and the moon rise. I sit on a rock and drink a cold beer I take with me, and the dogs play in the bush, tails going nineteen to the dozen, noses seeking out scents that surprise and delight, returning every so often to check that I'm still there, tongues hanging out, panting heavily and grinning. Trust me, dogs do grin.

Because I am so blissfully content here in this magical land and experiencing a long sought for peace, I am very reluctant to leave for Cape Town. I find that the actress side of my nature is dormant and becoming more so. When I was in London last year, I felt that Fuchsia was my swan song. I'm now in my sixty-seventh year and I'm tired and the thought of going on the road again, putting on the slap and going on stage to bare all makes me feel even more tired. So I shall continue to lie on my sun-lounger surrounded by my 'kids', reading endlessly and drinking copiously. I would be sad to be away from them and as my reason for wanting to work is simply to earn some money, and I am not and never have been motivated by money it's not a strong enough incentive - although looking at my bank balance, it SHOULD be! I'm at home here, I feel a sense of belonging that is so sweet; every day I find myself moved by the magic and mystery of the bush that surrounds me; awed by the magnificence, passion and power of the nature that speaks to my soul, harmonises in my heart and fills me with wonder and humility that I have been given the great privilege of living surrounded by the beauty of this unique continent.

Ev returned from France after being away for nine weeks, and much as I loved my time alone, it was wonderful to see her again and have her home. We've forged a great relationship during the five months we've lived together which affords us a lot of laughs, some great conversations and many bottles of the grape!

A thought. I wonder if anyone reading this can help me to contact my oldest friend? Due to my habit of moving frequently, we've lost touch, and I LONG to find her again. Her maiden name was Angela Hull, and her married name Harsant, and she has two children, Nadine and Bradley. I wrote about her in my 'Memories' blog; she was a huge part of my life, I think of her every day and want so much to know that she's ok and all is well with her world. If anyone can help me with my quest, please contact me at the address at the top of the page. Many thanks in advance!

Going to walk the 'kids'. Look after yourselves and love from us all, xxxxxxx