...not that that's a spectacle - I have been happy before (many times, actually!). But these last couple of weeks have been a bit rough, with a baby who decided that nighttime sleeping is for wimps. And that she wanted to see what her mum would look like as a zombie. Well, now she knows, the experiment is over, and peace and quiet will again settle in the Payne home (it's all down to positive thinking, I'm sure!).

So today, Mrs. Payne is a happy woman.

Many things to be joyous about: Making plum and apple juice from our own fruit. Listening to Francoise Hardy and the "I'm Not There" soundtrack. Thinking of the fun I had on my riding lesson yesterday, on huge gorgeous fantastic Landino. Looking at the doggies snuggled up on their beds. Thinking about how cute Ronja was this morning, hair all messy, floral skirt over wooly tights and hiking shoes, happy on her way to school. Looking forward to Mr. Payne coming home. Freja having a long nap in her pram, in the fresh autumn air. Thinking about the special day that's coming up this weekend.

It ain't so bad, after all.