The only reason we need to be camping in the flat is that we need the dogs to be happy and confident here so that they won’t be stressed while we are out at work and the builder is here. An unexpected benefit of this for JD is access to “the airlock” – a part of the garden normally out of bounds for dogs but an essential space for access to the flat. JD has worked out that sitting at the front of the airlock, by the stock fencing, gives him a perfect view of everything going on in the street.

He can bark at passing cyclists and horses as well as giving the neighbours a jump. But for the most part, he’s just watching and taking in all he surveys. He is king of his domain and he’s able to make sure that nothing untoward happens within or near to it. This photo is shot from the top of the stairs to the flat and by calling his name, I’ve broken his gaze into the distance.

It’s weird what small things can make you smile.