Blues skies returned today for our first visit to Mum in Woodpeckers since before the Christmas lockdown, which has been somewhat relaxed.
We were able to use the screen room. Jackie photographed Mum behind the screen in which I am reflected. My mother was in good spirits, but not hearing too well, especially at the beginning, probably because of having to adjust after the long absence.
The Assistant Photographer also pictured the view from the window, containing
ponies in a neighbouring field, and
small birds in a tree. Unfortunately Mum would not be able to see all this.
As can be seen from the pictures above, we experienced some sunny periods today. This afternoon I entered the garden with trepidation, to be pleasantly surprised. So far the gale force winds have inflicted virtually no damage.
A few empty trugs have been transported; a watering can has taken refuge in the compost container outside the kitchen door; and one basket is down.
Smaller plants, like primulas, violas, and trailing vinca remain unperturbed.
Daffodils which we feared would be flattened, and the tulips which had been flattened, and spiked, by a recent frost, stood proudly erect.
Apart from a few blown down blooms, our camellias are all unscathed.
Many of our hellebores, habitual head hangers, unusually held theirs high.
Elizabeth came to dinner for the first time since lockdown. Jackie produced one of her splendidly succulent steak, onion, and mushroom pies; roast potatoes; boiled purple potatoes; crunchy carrots and Brussels sprouts; firm cauliflower, and meaty gravy with which the Culinary Queen drank Hoegaarden while my sister and I drank Mendoza Malbec 2019. This was followed by a lemon tart.
