A need to sort out something in Ealing Broadway this morning made my route to the mission in Perivale much more picturesque. I ran through quiet pathways, hills, and streets with blossoming trees. Even the stretch along the A40 was agreeable.

I arrived three minutes too early. Because I don't like to surprise anyone by showing up ahead of time, I tried to busy myself by taking off my sunglasses and my hoodie and then putting on the mask. At 11:59 am, when I finally moved towards the doorbell, Mr R surprised me by already showing up at his doorstep. He handed me the cash and thanked me in advance. I said I got the list already, and we decided not to cross-check it. I asked if it's ok if I get the shopping done in Tesco and Mr R replied I can do it wherever I want: in Sainsbury's or Tesco. That made me think about the other alternative. I checked the map - the route to a big Sainsbury's supermarket was shorter than the one to Tesco. Moreover, it offered splendid views of the Grand Union Canal with its swans, ducks and boats. I picked Saino's.

I would classify this groceries mission as an entry-level: short distance, one big supermarket, less than 15 items, nothing custom, nothing too heavy. The only part where I slipped was "2 packets of pitta naan bread". I didn't notice that when skimming through the list. Otherwise, I would clarify it: so is it pitta or naan? I couldn't reach Mr R by phone from the shop, so I got one pack of white pittas and a pack of naan. Both turned out to be wrong as Mr R wanted wholemeal pittas! He seemed to be ok with what I bought anyway.

Mr R didn't check the delivery while I was there - he was just pleased that someone showed up and did his shopping. He asked me about GoodGym and was interested in arranging his groceries for the next week. I highly recommend Mr R's groceries: nice and easy - and with views!