Home and Gardens

Good to be home! The torrential rain in western England yesterday turned to bright sunshine in Wales and I arrived in north Wales way too early for the ferry. I took a detour and visited the National Trust garden at Bodnant near Conwy. The great magnolia borders were past their best but the irises and foxgloves were splendid.

This is an 80-acre estate more than a garden with long walks through classic borders, rose gardens, a wonderful laburnum archway, lots of trees including some sequoia, ponds, lakes, streams, waterfalls, cliffs, and even an old mill. The word garden covers a lot.

When I returned my tiny piece of earth was also showing off its irises and foxgloves (and its poppies and peonies too) though the wind had caused some toppling. Some work to be done there. But first a rest after 1248 miles driving. And then check out the Bedfordshire Regiment information - there's a book to finish, and then satire for the Battle of the Books at the Swift Festival. Rest!!