IT might only seem like yesterday but it was actually 18 months ago; that was the day I relinquished the luxury of residing in my flat alone and welcomed a lodger.

Financially this was a great move yet not quite so great for the cleanliness of my flat. The time has come to search for a new lodger; I had forgotten just how interesting this process could be. It does feel like a cross between a job interview and dating. Much is down to first impressions. I want the prospective lodger to be attracted to my flat but not look like I've over tried; they I presume want me to feel relaxed around them. As much as I try to keep aesthetics out of my decision making process I can't help but point out all the negatives of living with me when an unattractive individual with bad body odour seems far too keen. The next step is tricky as I have to wait to hear who is keen on me, or should I say my flat. I was fortunate to have plenty of interest and therefore a decent amount of choice, I've chosen a girl this time; so at least there won't be stubble around the sink everyday.

I managed to make the most of what now seems to have been our last few days of summer including a swimming session in the outdoor Tavistock pool. Normally I wouldn't be impressed having to share a crowded pool but this was evidence of the popularity of 'Super Saturday' held at Tavistock College — it was wonderful seeing so many young people trying out such an array of new sports. The weather may not have quite held for the whole weekend including my first ever 10k road race. However, on the plus side this did mean it was more familiar territory, almost becoming a cross-country event including a few mini 'lakes' to negotiate. My theory is next time it will feel much easier and hopefully be much faster.