a hint of summer in Cumbria...

hope springs eternal and while others in the UK are basking in hot sunshine... things oop north have been a trifle more challenging...rain and some more rain...but we have had some lovely sunny days and today has been one such...so musn't grumble...bless the rain...must be washing the countryside squeaky clean!

had to have along lie down after the exitement of staying up well past my bed time to view the amazing opening ceremnony of ye London 2012 Olympics ...wow! that drumming was something else ...and didn't you just love the Queen's awesome entry ...and Mr Bean's musical interlude...it was all pretty stunning... tho' I rather gave up the will to live when the countries trooping in got to about G...what a fantastic event with some truly memorable and moving moments...a feeling of community spirit and the possibility of nations truly sharing an experience in a peaceful and loving way...

so here we have some brave summer flowering...and even some peas... not as many as usual tho they taste pretty good...a combination of breaking my wrist in January (still improving thank you!) and the less than clement weatheriness...

and for sure the hot bed system of donkey muck, cardboard and grass clippings under a black membrane blanket has kept the courgettes snug and warm...you really wanted to know that! the donkeys are wonderful recyclers!

handsome Ned

beautiful Gwendoline...

we are entertaining high hopes of a hot sunny week...sometime...anytime...when we can harvest the garlic...

  
love that it's the holidays and we're all at home together...and we have even been able to eat lunches outside...much to the delight of the chickens...those girls can suss people eating from miles away and they come running... necks extended to see what they can get...half a sandwich the other day was snatched from husband of patience's careless hand...

and what of the hencklings I hear you cry...here they are out with their mum and aunties...looking to all intents and purposes...like ducks! it is strange to see them in water while their mum looks on...

here's a rare photo of an awake Bethany cat..she's so beautiful just had to share this with you...normally she's snoozing in the kitchen or in the lounge..happy cat! lkes nothing beter than a cuddle or a  knee to snooze on and a little food now and then...way to live!

leave you with a pic of my tranquil Buddha...I'm having a wee break...family stuff n visits...going to see the 62 Textile Group in Manchester a 50th Anniversary exhibition...whooppee! excuse is that daughter mine is doing textiles next year ...not that I need an excuse...see you in a while...have a peaceful summery week...I'll be back soon to tell you about my visit to the lovely gallery Hestascene? full of lovely contemporary art n craft in Caldbeck xx