Still gripped by severe man flu and have resolved to take tomorrow off work. Ribs oddly painful due to bouts of exceedingly violent sneezing. Wussing on my sofa, but now well into Kafka on the Shore. I was really lucky to have such a gem of a book this weekend.

Watched a TV documentary about Germany's World Cup history -- the triumph of grimness over flair and beauty.

The outside world filters in by phone. A quick chat to Mum who was talking about the family meeting up in Guernsey, and has discovered some of my vile school reports. And Anton, who is where he likes to be best... On the cusp of a brand new craze: outdoor ovens. Meanwhile Sarah, who is taking her finals and finding that the Academic's pay strike means nobody is sure about when exams will go ahead, apparently degree certificates will not be issued either.

Quick chats then yawning rubbishness takes over. Like now. Bed awaits.