We have warmth and hot water again, hurrah! Actually, the whole thing is a bit embrassing really!

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When the hot water and central heating went, both my father-in-law and husband tried to relight the boiler pilot light without success. My husband predicted the thermocouple had gone and told me to call British Gas. However, the engineer managed to light it first time! In fact, he said, there was nothing wrong with it except for rather a lot of dust!

I've never seen much point in dusting, of course. Like most cleaning, the dirt only comes back again. However, given the engineer's comments, it looks like I may have to buy myself a feather duster. Though the chances of me getting round to using it are still slim. There are so many more exciting things to do! Yes, even watching paint dry! (Pastel colours are best, if you've never tried it!)