It's no wonder that foreigners laugh at our "Britishness" - on Saturday night my friends and I had to have a little chuckle ourselves. The British love nothing more than to barbecue and on the whole this summer has been perfect with long warm evenings, that is until now. It's only August and we should still be able to enjoy alfresco dining even if it means turning a blind eye to the falling temperatures and occasional showers.
My hosts and I were determined to stick to our principles even if it did mean that we were dressed in our ski jackets, scarves and had to pull our hoods up a couple of times. I know that I couldn't begin to explain such eating arrangements to any of my foreign friends who live in hot climates but our stubborn pride means we will enjoy our food more outside even if it does require an extra glass of something to keep us warm and smiling.
I'm not sure how many more barbecue opportunities there are going to be this year, we have been so spoilt I can't believe it can last into September. I have become so accustomed to wearing shorts or skirts, never taking a jacket with me and generally being able to travel light that autumn may come as something of an unpleasant surprise. I had my first warning sign of how soft I have become on Sunday morning. I'd set my alarm for an early cycle and woke to see horizontal rain out of my window. I am slightly ashamed to admit it but I decided that my bicycle would prefer to stay dry and clean so pressed that alluring cancel button. The winter is going to be a shock.
