First day of sunshine in a while yesterday and I managed a walk with the dogs – joy! The woods were as ever beautiful, greens everywhere, birds singing and the three dogs running crazily up and down and after sticks. Didn’t go right up to the pond where the dogs swim as there is a big bump there which I didn’t think my pelvis would like but otherwise managed to avoid any painful bumps and got to admire the “allotment” as well. In fact although probably a bit early we pulled some onions, shallots and garlic for a base for our tomato sauce for pasta yesterday evening! So satisfying eating your own produce. Forgot to take a photo though. Today the sun is shining again. I am resting and doing admin though planning to go down to polytunnels later but know that tomorrow when we have got a plant sale (10-4 if you want to come!) it will be hard work so I need to preserve my energy. Ian is off to France today for his annual road cycling holiday. Back in 10 days and “babysitting” rota organised for his absence! Thanks to all those helping out…..Ann (Lane), Nicky, Svava – you’re all heroes. Good news from my cousin today that her husband has responded well to chemo so I am really delighted by that – made my day early on. Also heard one of my favourite poems “The Guest House by Rumi read beautifully on the Poetry Exchange podcast (the second reading of it at the end) https://twitter.com/PoetryExch/status/1144205221314342912 It’s a short poem but very meaningful in terms of how you live your life – not making judgements and taking everything and everyone that comes your way with open arms. Very much the philosophy of Station House …….so I will finish this post with the poem. Will write again soon. Fingers crossed for a successful plant sale tomorrow.

The Guest House

This being human is a guest house.
Every morning a new arrival.

A joy, a depression, a meanness,
some momentary awareness comes
as an unexpected visitor.

Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they’re a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,
still, treat each guest honorably.
He may be clearing you out
for some new delight.

The dark thought, the shame, the malice,
meet them at the door laughing,
and invite them in.

Be grateful for whoever comes,
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.

Jalaluddin Rumi

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J