“A folly to provide delight, sometimes a triumph of hope. Art that uses the flowers and plants as paint, the soil and sky as a canvas”
Category: Village Page 1 of 2
Come into the garden Maud,
An open day of gardens galore,
some long, some short, some thin, some broad
all I’m sure deserve awards.
June came round double quick
as we tried to make our lawns lush and thick,
to coax and water blooms to show
the magic as our gardens grow.
A little tweak here and there,
a rake, a broom, a weather prayer!
Come on Roses, show your faces
we need some colour, some perfect Acer’s.
Poppies, Geraniums, Lavender blue,
delight at every corner anew,
hanging baskets lend their hues,
as birds sing to add to pretty views,
of twinkling ponds and water features
the bubbles of the little creatures,
that swim beneath the lush green creepers.
Hosta plants with waiting blooms
to lift our spirits from Winter gloom.
Hydrangeas, Rhododendrons, tomatoes in pots,
delight our eyes and produce a lot!
Trellis’s of Sweet-peas reach our noses
their pretty faces in tangled motion…
Tall fir trees sway in breezes, good
not to have hay-fever sneezes.
These beautiful gardens, prepared for you
with care and love, I must applaud.
So come into the garden Maud!
So slowly this morning the dawn greeted me with a suitably golden sunrise creeping up and across the pale green pastures of this early Easter. A natural perfect beauty of a new day.  Walking to the village hall I thought that at last I detected the smell of Spring or perhaps as I approached it was the delicious smell of bacon cooking?  It is tradition in this little village to serve a cooked breakfast to those who like to join in a companible social setting. The full works is served, cereal, fruit juices, white and brown toast, marmalades, various jams and of course a magnificently cooked breakfast of sausage, egg, bacon, mushrooms, tomatoes and beans. The tables are perfectly laid with chintzy red clothes, vases of daffodils and shining cutlery, even I may add little dishes of chocolate eggs.
This morning we served about forty-five people, they chatted happily with joyous greetings of “Happy Easter”. It is good to take stock every now and then and appreciate how very lucky we are in this pleasant rural life of ours, where friendships flourish and folk care about those who are becoming older. Gentleness is the source of all caring, a smile, a kind considered word or two, go a long way in making those who days are slower now and for those that could, if care was not taken, lead lonely lives.
I have lived here in this little Village nestling at the foot of the Lincolnshire Wolds since 2004. No it’s not the prettiest village but its beauty shines in its ability to retain this special character of friendliness and tranquility which elsewhere may be impossible to find. Many happy faces left the village hall this morning, long may it last. “Happy Easter” dear readers, may this Easter find you with peace and a joyous heart.
Such a fun filled few weeks watching the Garden Room rise-up towards completion. Not the best of weather with quite a bit of overnight rain and it looks bleak everywhere but the good workers championed on to get the roof secure before the Christmas and New Year break. They all worked hard and with copious cups of strong tea and many plates of biscuits and Xmas Mince pies they succeeded. The garden is in aterrible mess now but when Spring approaches it will be great to think about the design for a small patio and a good general tidy-up. Still lots to complete before then with the stud-boarding and plastering to all walls and the knocking through to the kitchen, the tiles and lighting. With the plumber having done his bit, the pipes for the radiators have now been ‘picked-up’ and joined from the main system but the radiator has yet to be installed.
Christmas has been strange this year opting to stay put at home with not knowing at what stage the project would be at when arrangements were being talked about, although I was lucky with several invites I was worried to leave but as it turned out all was secure, still I had made up my mind to stay put and stay put I did.  It was not so bad as anticipated with a nice walk down to the village pub on Christmas day andfestive chats there, kept me buoyant as did the couple of good brandies to ward off the very chilly weather. Boxing day I went to Lincoln and roamed the furniture shops looking primarily at sofas and dining tables and nice pieces to decorate my Orangery. I enjoyed my day and snuggled down comfortably in the evening content to watch some films and eat far too much chocolate! The first ever Christmas spent alone at home but I managed it well I feel,  it was all rather peaceful and calm and I like that.  I managed also to clean Hamada’s headstone in the churchyard after I had my delicious warming brandy of course – it does get cold up there with the wind cutting through the bare branches of the surrounding trees.. His headstone tends to get covered in a green verdigris type substance at this time of year. I had my usual little chat with him and felt comforted on my walk back. Life is after all what you make of it. I am rarely lonely, alone yes but feel very lucky that I am able to be content and peaceful when life does not always deal you the best hand.  I miss my ‘best love’ more than words can say but as I have said before “Sorrow is better than fear, for fear is a journey a terrible journey but sorrow is at least arriving” Deep sorrow is something you CAN live with but the fear when someone is ill, the constant worry that you are doing all you can for them, even though deep down you know you are and the deep desire that when the time comes that all will be peaceful and right, is far far worse than the sorrow and loss I feel now. I have drifted off the subject somewhat but that’s what happens with writing sometimes.
As we approach 2015 I would like to wish those who read here a truly enlightening year with all good and delicious new things coming your way, peaceful pleasures that bring joy to your soul. Mostly I wish you good health to be able to go out and walk – if you can- in this lovely world of ours. If not to look at the magic wonders of our sky especially at night with the twinkling stars that fill this velvet void. Thank you for reading my simple words. ” Our joys as winged dreams do fly. Why then should sorrow last…” Stay strong all those that live alone and know that I am thinking of you and wishing you well. And so with these words I march onwards with this good life of mine. God Bless!
We learn wisdom from failure much more than success, or so I like to believe but starting a large project when living alone is mighty daunting never-the-less. For sure I have always been a brave woman if that’s really the right word, one can become complacent when getting older and for me approaching my seventies, I have recently thrown caution to the wind!
The past couple of months have been exciting for me in many ways, pulling and shaking me from my gentle quiet life here in the country. Not that I might add I am ever bored or feel there is not enough to do, often not having enough hours in the day for all the things I desire to achieve. I have a lunch date or two most weeks and often go out to dinner. I spend time writing of course, walk with the “Wold Walkers for Health” and join-in many social occasions in the Village. Having marvellous holidays too and I go visiting south, now and then and even manage the odd day in London, recently spending another day at “Westfield Shopping Mall” a great fun day out. I am content and happy with my so called ‘quiet life’, living alone has many compensations. Pleasing yourself with what you choose to do with your precious time is one of them and something I luxuriate in these days.
I have now been without my beloved for four years, adjusting well to this terrible loss or so I believe but now a time of reassessment has arrived. I live in a most modest bungalow quite perfect for retirement, the garden is probably a bit too big for me to cope with alone and that’s costly to keep under control but I would hate to part with it.  I have just had all the trees pruned and some removed as the garden was becoming untidy and growing inwards, hopefully that will last for a good few years before needing attention again. I love so much the quietness and tranquillity of this village , we have fun here but its still perfect to retreat to your own little space and that’s something I love.
Still reassessment of one’s life  is a good thing to do from time to time and at any age, bringing many different thoughts together and perhaps as folk might think, should I move to a smaller place? A flat/apartment perhaps because I am getting older? Should I return to the county I came from, nearer my sons and their familes? I of course love them muchly but do not wish to be the Mother that is just run the corner. As long as my independence lasts and I keep well and active then here I shall stay. I have been pondering for some time but have never wavered from my love of this quiet village of kind good people, a village with no lights, starlit skies, one pub and the little church of St Margaret’s and in the ten years I have lived here the many memories that have been made and of course in the churchyard lies a special spot near to the church door… Could I leave that? And rings the answer loud and clear – No!
I have learnt well that possessions do not last, it is remembered  joys that make the heart strong and content. I am happy here although living alone, so feel I must make my home as comfortable as I can for me and for the guests that perhaps will brave the ‘A’ roads to visit me occasionally.  And so to that end and because it is an exciting thing to do at any time of life and especially now in mine, I have decided to extended my home and make it the best I can for the years that remain. Since moving here over a decade ago, and downsizing greatly, I really missed not having a dining room, yes I could have taken one of the bedrooms but so often when family comes all the rooms are taken. I love to entertain and yes we have managed – when not many folk are here - we have eaten in the kitchen, quite big enough really, but when needing more room we have had to put a long table in the sitting room not a problem in the past but now I need to make things easier for me and a little less hard work.
So with that in mind I have decided to have a large Orangery built to the rear of the bungalow and as I sit here writing this, the garden and driveway to my home are covered in cement mixers, diggers and all manner of building equipment. How strange when the planning takes months and all of a sudden there you go, an invasion of the nicest kind. I am of course keeping a record of the build, always fun to look back on in years to come and I am glad to learn the manner and order of these types of modern day builds, not that I will ever attempt one I’m sure! But knowledge is knowledge and all is good to retain. I have longed to have a light airy room and to be able to glean as much of our English sunlight that I can. I have spent much time looking at designs, chatting to architects, walking showrooms with a dear friend, debating and discussing, mulling over the few complications of drains and interior heating cupboards, radiators and fires, light fittings etc etc. Doing things by yourself is more of a challenge of course. I have to keep within a budget and my always champagne taste with beer money comes sharply to mind. I have discussed things with a good friend who reminds me often that however my vision, it must be tailored to my own needs and taste and I should have just what I what, well thats ok to a degree but I must stay within my budget and could without doubt like all of us, get carried away! Still It’s fun and enjoyable  searching out ideas for the interior, which I would like more modern than the rest of the house. Have manage to find a contemporary mounted wall fire that I like and that I hope will work well with the radiators, selected lights too, not wanting the normal ceiling fan which I dislike because of the whirring noise and have certainly overdone the budget on a huge ceiling and two wall lights, oh well, we all need a bit of glamour in our life. I shall update as things continue but they are racing away and progressing so quickly after only a week of work. Watch this space friends this will be fun and fingers crossed…
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See there the changing of the light,
its fervency to bring in sight
as golden heads in breeze do blow
as struggle through the earth they grow.
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Eyes do see blue circle bright
the Midas touch of lighter nights,
spins the green of breezy branches
this vision of Spring so fast advances.
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Life passes quickly in easier haze,
as painful days begin to fade…
Unfurled this heart this mist does clear,
It looks to be a splendid year…
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In this peaceful part of the world my beloved lies amongst friends. Under the twinkling night stars of this beautiful small village and during the day nestled in this tranquil setting and in the sight of God is his final resting place. It is right and fitting. Amen.
* The Ankh cross also known as crux anasta is the ancient Egyptian hieroglyph meaning life. The loop part having neither beginning nor end, so representing the eternal soul.
* See ‘A Difficult Task’ shown below.
Hamada’s Tree in Rhode Island
“Hamada’s Special Ray Of Light†here in the Village.
When I first started writing my “Poems of Love†for Hamada I was amazed at the many who also seem to enjoy them and understood my reason for keeping a diary of these difficult days. One of the very first comments I ever received was from a wonderful gentleman Lt (now Captain) Michael Morse of Providence, Rhode Island. Michael as an Emergency Medical Technician in Providence, works in a team of very brave men and woman all willingly risking there lives every day, to help and save the community of Providence, dealing with drug overdoses, gunshot wounds, suicides and all manner of medical emergencies that are all in a days work for them. These are extremely brave and courageous people working continuously in often very difficult conditions.
Five years ago in the early hours of the morning, Michael was surfing the net and came across my little blog written here in this tiny village in the UK. During a quiet moment and a lull in calls he settled down to read some of my poems. They seem to appeal to him, he wrote on his blog and I quote:
“Susie’s poems hit home in so many ways. Heroes are all around us, fighting life and death battles, facing the fear of uncertainty yet still able to inspire others during the darkest days of their lives. People previously unknown to me and living on another continent are fighting with amazing grace, dignity and courage†and so this started the many comments and sincere praise that he often sent my way. He pointed out that he has never been very interested in poetry but mine tugged at his heart and he found himself becoming more interested in the story behind them.
Michael is a most compassionate man – he would not be doing the job he does tirelessly every day if this was not so. He is a wonderful writer, logging as he does the daily problems and trials and tribulations of the work he does as a EMS/Fire-fighter on his wonderful blog www.rescuingprovidence.com Michael’s comments encouraged me to continue writing the updates and poems that made Hamada’s Blog “A Power Within†http://www.susiehemingway.blogspot.com the success it became.
So Michael followed Hamada’s blog and online through his comments, Michael and Hamada became good friends, a connection you could say. Michael’s very popular book “Rescuing Providence†was sent, read and enjoyed very much by Hamada. I would pass-on all the comments Michael wrote under my poems – somehow, someway, Michael gave Hamada more courage.
Continuing another extract shown here from Michaels blog, explains well this connection:
“One night, as I sat at my desk in a little office in a fire station in a small city in the US, I opened my window to the world known as the Internet, and moved the little mouse over something called “Verve Earthâ€, and randomly zig-zagged across the map of the world, wondering where I might stop. When I was a kid I used to go to the globe, which for those who never saw one is a three dimensional orb which replicates Planet Earth, mounted on a holder of sorts that allows the earth to spin. I’d give it a good push, and lightly place my finger on the surface as it spun, and wherever it stopped, that’s where I decided I would go. This night, it stopped in England, “in a beautiful village nestling by the river Bain in the heart of the Lincolnshire Wolds.†There, I was introduced to Susie and Hamada, a happily married couple, living gracefully through the curse of Multiple Myeloma. Through Susie’s poems I was allowed entry into the most astonishing love story ever written. The simple complexity of her words, full of pain but able to articulate enduring hope travelled an ocean, and opened a part of my heart that had been closed since 1990, when my father battled cancer and lost. The profound sadness I felt when I heard the news that Hamada had died literally crippled me. I never spoke to Hamada, nor heard him speak. I only knew him through the words his wife used to describe their life together, and his courage and dignity during his last few years. Yet I knew him. And I’m a better person because of it. I imagine Hamada will be laid to rest, “in this beautiful village nestling by the river Bain in the heart of the Lincolnshire Wolds.†I imagine his friends and family will join the solemn occasion, and pay their respects, and mourn his loss. But here in my little place, back in my little office, watching the world through my window the sadness I felt has been replaced, and in its place something greater and timeless resides, and I have Susie and Hamada to thank, for without them, I would not have experienced “The Power Withinâ€
Michael of the Giant Heart read my poems and never fail to send a comment or a good wish our way and as you have read, very saddened when Hamada’s journey came to an end. Now to the special story of “The Tree and The Hawkâ€
On the day we laid Hamada to rest in this little country village in Middle England– this freezing cold Winters day when the ground was thick with snow and ice – and many had come to pay their respects to our beloved warrior, at approximately the same time on the other side of the world, a very kind and compassionate man was taking his regular walk and passing a large old tree near to his home he watched a huge hawk flitting above him in the branches. As he approached this tree, the hawk suddenly stayed very still and appeared to look down at him. The hawk stayed this way for sometime, causing the man beneath to feel something most spiritual. This man was Michael who was so move by this experience he felt the need to say his own goodbyes to Hamada.
Then once again on another day as Michael walked his usual route, at the very same spot he had said goodbye to Hamada he looked up, and the giant hawk again landed on a branch about thirty feet above him, in this old tree. A flock of mockingbirds descended upon him, dive bombing and pestering him, but the bird refuse to move ( much like Hamada with his courage) and just sat there, and again they looked at each other for nearly five minutes, again the spiritual feeling.
How I love this,another connection made. Hawks remind me of the wonderful Falcons of the desert and Hamada loved to watch them when we lived in the United Arab Emirates. Yes, a hawk is most suitable for my Hamada who just may have been paying his respects to this kind and compassionate man who befriended him during the many months of his courageous fight with the wretched illness that is Multiple Myeloma. Two good men making a connection through this modern world of ours. Miles apart, never having met, never having spoken, but a connection for sure. Thanks Mike.
All Rights Reserved: 2011
“Ray of Light Photo†Courtesy of Janey Johnson Photos.
AS the snow lay heavily across this perfect land. Temperatures plummeted to an all time low. Lanes were covered thickly with snow and packed ice. Branches weighed heavily with icicles as though they wept their perfect tears along with our sorrow. Important paths were cleared by a team of willing men as brilliant sunshine played and danced on crystal ‘water-diamonds’ studded on pasture lands.
We stood on that first day to receive this special man. Tightly together, our breath pluming feather like, into the crisp harsh air. All his dear ones so close, each with their own special memories of this much loved, dignified and courageous man.
The first evening brought many to pay respects, travelling the length of the UK to this beautiful little place on Gods earth. Staying in guests cottages on farms and in nearby bed and breakfasts houses. Filling with love as they arrived, the empty space in my heart. Each bringing their quiet thoughts and memories along to ‘celebrate’ this good mans life. We chatted and yes, we laughed into the evening , talking of fun times together just as if this beloved man was still sitting with us. We spoke of special dates, birthday, holidays, fun times at the beach, love filled that evening reception. The cosy warm rooms with food aplenty also warmed our hearts .
The day arrived for our final goodbyes. Limousines were prepared, large shiny ‘ rooks of travel’ deliciously comfortable, mine with a thoughtful small crystal glass of brandy resting in holder to ward off the bitter cold. Nothing had been missed… nothing left to chance…
My mind seemed detached and yet clear ‘picture memories’ that will remain forever with me began to etched on my mind. My dearest daughter-in law thoughtfully bringing to my bedroom a soft linen handkerchief, the hugs of my two stalwart sons who seemed to be taking care of everything. I remember clearly a vision of my youngest son Jo bending to adjust tenderly the tie of my Grandson Manu, resplendent in perfect little black suit, his sad dear face and the hugs he gave me so often during the day, will never leave my heart. The Bells tolled across the village, calling all to this resting place.
The oh! so slow drive, carefully negotiated on ice covered lanes, the congregation filling the church, the prayers, the many readings, the just beautiful strains of chosen music and hymns. The overwhelming smell of lilies and eucalyptus covering the casket, brought tears to my eyes.
The guidance of our dear Reverend Avril, her clear voice fully in charge of proceedings but tear- filled eyes gave away this confident stance. The Stunning photo of Hamada, that our dear niece Ellie had skilfully had enlarged and had propped against a tall glass vase of more triumphant white lilies for all to be able to see,our handsome man.
The splashes of mauve coloured scarves and beautiful arrangements of flowers lovingly prepared with special care caught my eye. The pink cheeks of my sisters who’s eyes showed such deep sorrow. Their dear husbands grieving for the loss of their much loved brother.
My body shook with grief as I heard the first rendering, the beautiful Hymn “Abide With Me†the clear delightful voice of Katherine Jenkins filling the air.Two strong hands from either side covered mine, it was enough.
Tears fell to the strains of “Ai giocco addio†from Romeo and Juliet the powerful voice of Luciano Pavorotti echoing against the strong stone walls of this tiny ancient place, such a favourite of ours and played so often in our home.
The pride I felt at the words of the five tributes, each perfectly clear and delivered with such compassion, each telling their own poignant story.
The words of the Eulogy read in perfect tones by my eldest Son Matt, containing only words that God could have guided his hand to write. Telling the most perfectly unique and complete story of our beloved Hamada. “ The days run away like wild horses over the hillsâ€Â  continued to tell so much of this dear mans life and then to finish his reading with Khalil Gibran “The Springtime Of Loveâ€Â a poem found marked in one of Hamada’s books. I shall keep Matt’s wonderful words safely by me for the rest of my days, they were so beautiful.
The village elder speaking in reply, with such love, support and total tenderness taking our breath away with his sincerity, and perfectly clear and powerful words of kindness his skilful reading of the ancient Psalm 23 .
The tears from everyone, as we gathered closely together and all sang along with Elton John “ Can You Feel The Love Tonightâ€
Some so moved that the words could not come, as the love surrounded and filled this tiny place. My dear girl friend’s face so wet, with such huge tears of sadness.
We sat in silence as Ray Lamontagne’s beautiful guitar rift “ Truly, Madly, Deeply†gently filled our hearts.
The final: Ray Lamontagne’s“ All The Wild Horses†completed this long farewell as everyone stood in honour.
SO many things I will remember from that God given day that allowed us to say our goodbyes, to a perfect and much love gentleman. Youngest son Jo reciting a “Surah†in Arabic, his strong deep voice so much like his Father’s, clear in the bitter sun-filled air.
The family standing in resplendent smartness on crisp white snow as they threw their white roses of peace the long way down, then the men – including our beloved Grandson – with hands full of dust “dust to dust, ashes to ashes†never have I felt such love, love that surrounded these two days. Days that will never ever fade from my memory.
“May God bless you my Habibi and grant unto you eternal peace forever Amenâ€.
Photo of Lilies,cream roses,eucalyptus and banana leaves taken by Janey Johnson with thanks.
All Rights Reserved.
I’m sure the sky appeared bluer that day
tents and stalls were assembled by dawn,
a bustle took over the village
and in their own unique way
all manner of games, raffles and prizes
appeared for this, the Annual Village Fete.
“Teeny tots with sparkling eyes
As all around delights they spy
Laughing faces full of joy
Gleeful girls and skipping boys
Little children with winning toys
Raffles and tombola stand
Bouncy castles and a splendid band!
Sunlight streams through covering trees
A Village Affair for you and me
Jars of jams and chutney to buy
Balls to throw and win a prize
Just to be in summer glow
And watch this Village come and go
Fifty pence will bring a chance
To win the lotto in a glance
Pretty dresses, summer hats,
Throw the balls and make a crash!
Time to sit for cup of tea
Cakes to choose, now let’s see?
Strawberries and cream on scrumptious scones
No coffee walnut will be the one!
Nothing less that I can see
A Village Affair for you and me…â€
All Rights Reserved 2010
As most of my readers know, I am very fortunate to live in a lovely Wolds Village in Lincolnshire. Living in such a beautiful place often turns up rather special days. The views shown above are from my windows which especially at this time of the year are magnificent. Always changing like the seasons, the sheep arriving in the spring and then within a glance the spectacular Lincoln Red Cows have taken their place! So the ‘pictures’ I see, often change by the hour. I do spend rather a lot of time looking at this stunning change of scene. Then sometimes a little ‘extra gift’ is thrown into the melting pot of nature. Imagine my surprise when gazing with morning coffee in hand and there standing proudly in my garden was the most exquisite Peacock. He stood surveying the scene seeming very tame. Not wanting to frighten him I crept closer with camera in hand. He later accepted some bird seed and small nuts and enjoyed a chat staying for the day, sitting on my wall in the dark and then returning again for the next three days. I was sad to see him go but Mr Peacock was last seen walking down the lanes of this very special Village What a gift!
Can be found at http://www.susiehemingway.blogspot.com
I have spent the morning baking for our Village Spring Flower Show, which is tomorrow. In the morning I will pick a flower or two and some nice greenery, to make a small display to enter. There are not many flowers in my garden that are in bloom at the moment, mostly daffodils but I will see what I can come up with. Although listed as a flower show, there is always a very successful baking section, a wonderful display of scrumptious home baking. Cakes, scones, flans, jams, lemon-curds all manner of goodies . There are some very fine cooks and chefs in the Village but it’s always great fun to enter even as a novice. Some of the men, who would never normally cook have a go, and I can vouch that some of their flapjacks turn out to be very fine indeed! When the serious business of judging is over, all the items are auctioned off, which is such great fun, causing a lot of merriment, as we all get to bid on each others offerings and very often go home with something special for tea.
Shown above: Two simple fruit cakes with a little touch of brandy in each. One ‘old fashioned’ Apple-pie, and Two, Ham, Mustard, Egg and Cheese Flans.
It’s been a long Winter this year but today the sun shone as tender shoots started to turn green. The vivid yellow of the Laburnum was in evidence from my windows and the air had that little hint. As the sheep returned to the fields even the Cat came along to saviour this glorious sunny morning. Yes, I know we had heavy snow here last year on Easter Sunday! when it was even difficult to get in and out of the village but although chilly today, it indeed feels like Spring has come.
Decided to make a giant 13 inch Chicken Pie to take on Saturday for the “Pie and Pea do” at the Village Hall. I do hope they enjoy.
