Deep Water

Working backwards this morning to 16th I converted another batch of Galleries in June 2014 posts.

This afternoon we joined Helen, Bill, Shelly, and Ron at 22 Avon Avenue, Avon Court, where we viewed their splendid garden open for the National Gardens Scheme.

Water was the dominant theme here, as paths with well stocked

borders encircled a central man-made lake, lined with bags of cement which set as the water was added.

On this very hot day the many visitors welcomed the shade offered by the numerous trees.

Dragonflies darted, azaleas and arum lilies abounded; a locked door added Tardis-like mystery.

While I stood pondering whether I dared try my balance on stepping stones across deep water

a gentleman keeping upright with the aid of two sticks ventured across.

It was then that Dan came to my aid.

I had been enjoying conversation with him and his mother including speculation about whether we both had Viking ancestry, when he suggested going across ahead of me with my hands resting on his shoulders. This is what we did. His sister then joined us.

She had photographed this activity from the other side of the lake and Danny, later, sent them to me by Facebook Messenger.

I also photographed Bill.

After this visit we all repaired to Helen and Bill’s home at Fordingbridge, where Jackie’s sister provided an excellent repast of cold meats, boiled potatoes, coleslaw, and fresh salad with flavoursome bread she had made from a recipe book provided by Shelly who made a superb trifle topped with strawberries. Beers and red wine were quaffed.

72 comments

  9. It’s wonderful seeing all that water and shade; it’s an immensely appealing place. A friend created a small pond and waterfall at her place, and even that took two years before it took nice shape. I can only imagine the work that underlies this wonderful spot.

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  13. Beautiful gardens with a little mystery and adventure on the steppingstones. Sounds perfect and reminds me of the song lyric: “I get by with a little help from my friends.”

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  14. Those gardens are so inviting. I can sense the heat from your photos, Derrick. I hope the mosquitos weren’t out and biting. Lovely pictures and a kind gesture from your new companions. That and the delicious spread surely made for a nice day.

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    1. We have thought about it but it would require too much work for us now, Rosaliene. Thank you very much

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  21. How pretty and calming the gardens and the water look. The lotus and the pond remind me of my pond in my backyard.

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  23. Very pretty! How nice that your fellow visitor helped you get across. I recently had a fellow hiker lend me a stable hand as I was climbing down a trail.

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  24. You’ve captured the loveliness of that garden perfectly, Derrick. So good to all get out together and round it off over a convivial meal. Must do it again soon!

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  27. What a lovely day out with friends, Derrick and Jackie. I love water gardens as they are so restful. Thank you for sharing those beautiful photos.

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    1. I imagine it must have bottom lining, which would be cement bags, too. Thanks very much, Judy

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  30. A beautiful spot in nature. Shoulders are a good way to stay steady. I had a blind friend, who when moving in a new area, would hold onto my shoulders and walk right behind me.

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  31. Pingback: The Garden Today – derrickjknight

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