Well, we didn’t get any snow. But, we did get a beautiful starry night. Tom has been sharing some star knowledge with me, and I’ve enjoyed learning some new things. Now, I can spot Orion, and just make out the Pleaides on a clear night. I have a better idea of how enormous our galaxy is, and how many others there are. It’s daunting, but inspiring. After all, we are all made of stars.
Sunday has been filled with hours out clearing the garden, baking cookies and crumble, and exploring our pebbly beaches. It’s been so grey and still, with talk of snow on the radio. Oh, if only! I’ve been sitting by the fire, knitting up a storm, and hoping the weather will take the hint. This snowy Pullman book describes a world in which everyone has a daemon. I’d like to think mine would be a red squirrel; busy, always well-stocked for food, and happiest when outside.
Briddlesford has long had a great little farm shop. It’s a welcome stop for supplies mid-bike ride, and has plenty of yummy goodies and local produce. What with the good thing they already had going, I was excited when I first heard of their plans to open Bluebells Cafe. And they didn’t disappoint. The distances people travel (by Island standards) to come for a bite to eat here is testament to it’s greatness.
Today, we travelled here via Combley Great Wood. Tom and I are both reading books on trees and enjoyed exploring this unfamiliar spot. After a few wrong-turns and running back for missing gloves, we were pretty hungry. After all, half the point of a walk is the well-deserved cup of tea at the end.
This great little place gives me business envy. With good strong coffee, plenty of local food options and friendly staff, Bluebells is a treat. The polished concrete floor, woodburner and lush loos (yes, it matters!) just add to it’s perfect-stop status. This feels like local business at it’s best.
We never found the missing glove, but we did go home with full tummies and plans to return soon.
Yesterday was a gorgeous sunny day here in Cowes and I was lucky to be at home to enjoy it. I was busy contemplating spring garden plans. This involved lots of sitting and pondering over a cup of tea. Hard work, but someone has to do it..
I’m not sure I could ever move inland. There’s something about being able to see the edge of the land, and the big blue expanse beyond that is somehow settling. In the past, when I lived amongst the hills, or in the city, I would catch myself wondering what was beyond the horizon, like I hadn’t quite made it.
I’ve never got tired of turning round the corner on my journey home to see the sea stretch beyond. Whether it be an evening ride along the sea front, or a weekend walk on the clifftops; whichever part of the coast, and whatever the activity, I just love living by the sea!
