Scorcio Medio!
It’s still been hot this week although not quite as stifling as last week. Temperatures have been in the high 20s (high 70s, low 80s) but with a bit of breeze to cool things off. And, the evening temperatures have been more accommodating, cooling down to the high teens making for somewhat more comfortable slumbers.
Still no rain, though – the garden is parched, the grass is brown and the wheat in the fields is golden. See if you can spot Daisy – Look carefully! I reckon she’s in six of these photos but the wheat blends beautifully with her fur.
Friday evening we hosted our neighbourhood “Not a Pub Night” occasional gathering. It was a lovely evening. The weather was quite accommodating – hot but not sweltering and there was a light breeze to cool things off. And, the grape vine over the patio pergola provided excellent shade – just as we had hoped it would. A great evening – it’s always lovely interacting with our neighbours.
Saturday, Penny and Annabelle caught an early train to take part in the National March for Palestine in London. That’s one of a grandmother’s more important roles, I think – taking your granddaughter on a protest march.
They marched from Russell Square to Downing Street along with hundreds of thousands of others to convey what seems a simple and obvious message to the incoming Prime Minister – stop selling jet parts and other military hardware to Israel. Continuing to do so is contributing to the undoubted genecide being carried out in Gaza.
Unfortunately, they couldn’t stay too long to listen to the speeches. Penny had to race home so that we could join several of our splendid neighbours for some “drama in the park.” Canons Ashby, our National Trust property just up the road from us, hosted a performance of The Three Musketeers. Everyone brought a contribution for a group picnic and the weather was kind again – not too hot with a bit of breeze.
The play itself was fun. A cast of six playing about twenty parts, rapid costume changes required. It was part pantomime, part drama – actually, make that 99% pantomime with a bit of “acting” thrown into the mix. Our only criticism – it was about half an hour too long. Still, great fun.
More granddaughter praise, I’m afraid. End of term reports for both Jessie and Juju full of praise. Juju’s report says that she’s “an absolute joy to have in pre-school” and that she is, “a bright, active, determined, lively and creative child.” Phew, you said it!
Jessie’s report is excellent. Her teacher writes, “Jessica has embraced the challenges of Year 5 with enthusiasm and a genuine love of learning. She is hardworking, full of interesting facts and always eager to share her knowledge with others. Jessica is an exceptional writer who approaches every piece with enthusiasm and creativity.” Yep, you got that right as well!
Jessie’s certificate is for participating with a group of others in a talent show in which she sang solo in one of the songs they performed. I gather her primary school came first in the competition. Thanks to Ava for the photos and video. Well done you two girls!
And finally, Penny called in to the pet store the other day to acquire something for Daisy. As the World Cup has been dominating much discussion across the country, you won’t be surprised to learn that the pet store had a variety of football-related pet toys. Penny couldn’t resist and bought her a football with some rope attachments. She loves it! If only she had been available for the England team!
Meanwhile, keep breathing, keep happy, keep smiling, keep exercising, be good, be careful, and keep safe. And, be gentle to wasps and bees – we need all the pollinators we can get. And, hold your loved ones close.
Lots of love to you all,
Greg