The weather remains stably cool with sunny intervals. I actually find it quite pleasant though it is difficult to sit and enjoy the great outdoors due to inconsistent temperatures. However, as far as activity is concerned, it is pleasant. And- it has stayed dry.
Today, for me, seemed to arrive a little later than usual . But it allowed for flexing, and not very successful puzzles, and a mood that inspired me to get up early. Or earlier to be more accurate.
H and I were away and out – around 07.30. Cholsey Meadows was today’s destination as I have not been there for a few days. They were sensational. Bathed in the sunshine that arrives with blue skies, there was no one about, apart from a noisy sedge warbler. The giant hogweed was more giant and the ragwort was pervading everywhere. Neither plant is useful or kind to us or animals as far as I am aware.
The other meadow flowers provided a degree of prettyness.
There was a lot of splashing around the pond resulting in a wet doggy and some squawking ducks.
Restraint was required after I realised there were some babies chasing mother duck across the pond whilst H hunted through the reeds. Naughty dog!
I decided to be economical with my time away from Underhill, and call in at Waitrose to pick up a JL order before returning home. It was after all 10.00 by now so the shop would be open. Only it was not open. Probably because it was 09.00 and not 10.00. So that was a wasted trip.
I came home and watered my plants instead, whilst I checked they were actually doing what plants should do.
I am pleased to report that in the orchard, one of my blackcurrant bushes is yielding all of 6 blackcurrants. Not much jam there. My Appletini tree is smothered in little red appletinis. I have a tiny courgette just peeping out ( yellow variety), and red flower buds forming on some runner beans, and shy tomato flowers just getting their act together.
The garden flowers aren’t doing badly either.
Spit the yellow courgette. Or spot it. Whichever.
The rose embarrassment that was moved from the front garden seems happier in its new situation.
Having watered the plants, I revisited Waitrose and picked up my parcel. It was a fairly small lightweight item in an huge box surrounded by unnecessary giant purple bubble wrap. The kind lady at the desk offered to remove the box and packaging, an offer not to be refused.
I bought a few reduced price items amongst other groceries. Fruit mostly. I also found their hiding place for frozen fruit.
More cloud had appeared by now and there was a chilly edge to things, so I set about making brunch. Whilst it was cooking, I decided to prepare the art materials that I needed for my 3 workshops next week.
The event Co-ordinator finally managed to get an email to me about the ink and wash class. It was her third attempt, she must think I’m potty!
For my watercolor classes all materials are supplied. But not for the Goring Gap Festival ones next week.
I managed to cover much of myself in ultramarine acrylic paint when I opened the lid to check it was still alive within the tube. Not very clever. Acrylic is horrid to remove.
But I am happy to report that I already had just about everything I needed, including the correct paper for the following workshops: sketching buildings and landscapes in ink and wash; Japanese water color block printing; and impressionist landscapes in acrylic. Should be fun!
The rest of the day passed slowly and the evening was a bit of a haze.
So sad to read they have found the body of Dr MM. I will miss his broadcasting – but it begs the question : with his medical knowledge, what was he thinking of to attempt that walk in those temperatures? May he rest in peace.
Thought for the Day
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