Today rain threatened and it finally came to my garden at least in the form of hailstones battering the roses and philadelphous. But that was past six in the evening. Thankfully the day had remained fine until then, even sunny in parts, for the Yellow Book opening of Pablo’s Garden. I know that Gillian who keeps the garden is an expert and devoted gardener but I still find myself in awe of what she has achieved: the garden in all it’s parts, its sunny and shady borders filled with flowers, the stumpery, the rose bed, the path lined with giant ferns, quiet places to sit and contemplate, a summerhouse with books and cats, a greenhouse bursting with tomatoes, flowers inhabiting every nook and cranny – such loving detail can only be achieved by a true, patient and inspirational gardener. There was tea of course and wonderful cakes and second hand books. I am now the delighted new owner of The Penguin Book of Garden Writing. Gardens are inspiring places. I came away wanting to write and reminded of my grandmother’s garden. If you’d like to read my piece about that garden you can find it here
In my newsletter this week – how to give your imagination free rein – just email me if you’d like to receive it.
Avril, I love your story – Dancing with Mr Benn. It evokes such lovely childhood memories and the love between you, as a small child and your Grandma, as well a her beautiful garden. I was brought out of my reverie when Jack threw the writing case in the dipping sink. However, all’s well that ends well. You have the writing case and Efa was able to have a dance with Anthony Wedgewood Benn, with a photograph to prove it too.
Your writing is truly beautiful. I could picture the lushness of the garden and the importance of water.
Geri
Geri, thank you so much. I’m so glad you liked it as my Grandma was very special to me. Looking back I see she was quite a woman – maybe she was the first person who inspired me to write.