Calm

After several days of chilly, blustery, but dry weather, this morning dawned calm and serene, but with a little less sunshine, early on. By mid morning, when I was at Porlock Weir, it was really beautiful and warm.

I had not slept well. My first two nights were really good sleeps, but not last night. My shoulder disturbed me as well as other busy brain stuff.

We took our early stroll around the castle grounds and I worked out the logistics of getting my ‘stuff’ and H to the car which was parked just down Dunster High Street. I took H’s bag when I went for brekkie. I took H after we had eaten brekkie. And after that , I collected my wheelie bag and we checked out. We are now quite old friends, the receptionist and myself, and I left with promises of a free upgrade! But my room was already great with its spaciousness, its own garden access and excellent bathroom etc.
H’s brekkie and my brekkie.

I cannot recommend this hotel enough. It is quirky and full of interesting nooks and crannies and ancient architectural features. The gardens are a wonder and the food is excellent. Not fancily modern but thoughtfully designed and put together and beautifully cooked. They understand fish! It is not cheap, but my stay, under special offer of the evening meal, is a treat to be repeated.

We headed for Porlock Weir where there was plenty of parking and plenty of warm sunlight. I visited the ceramic gallery and cafe and disposed of a little cash. And then I headed for Exeter to see Pen on the way home – or not really on the way, more out of it really.
The Satnav directed me to take a route via Dunkery Beacon, the high point of Exmoor. The northern flanks are wild, steep moorlands, casting their brooding eyes over the estuary to Wales. The southern parts are pasture land and hedged agricultural fields.
That’s Wales over the sea.

I had no vehicles in front of me, or behind me until I reached the M5 somewhere near Tiverton I think.

I joined Pen for a quick drink. Her garden is beginning to look lovely and we chatted with her gardener who used to work for … the owners of the Luttrell Arms.

I had to stop on the way home for a little snooze in the car. I felt knackered. And then the service light came on, which is extremely annoying, because it is not due a service for months, so that will mean finding time to visit the Honda dealer in Reading for free attention.

I arrived home safe. Thanks to the Illis for putting the bins out so the skanky grass clippings have gone. The grass – well thank goodness I cut it before going away because it still looked good. And I couldn’t see any dandelions but I know they are there. The pots will need water tomorrow.

It was after 18.00, and I unloaded the car and unpacked. It’s surprising how tiring king car journeys can be. (Ha ha)

That chair has a lot to answer for…

It’s Tina’s birthday today . And someone else’s tomorrow.

Thought for the Day