and May Sunshine!

Just back from a week in Parkham where, but for one dull and dreary day, the sun has shone more or less continually.  The good weather seems to improve everyone's mood in the village after what has been a long, cold and wet winter and spring.  Seeing The Bell with much of the scaffolding down also cheers everyone.  The new thatch looks fantastic in the sunshine and the whole pub is looking, externally at least, close to its former glory.

We were privileged to have a guided tour round the pub and it was good to see the building taking shape internally although sadly, a September opening date is now most likely.

The village celebrated the 'Royal Wedding' in a big way and it was good to share in the celebrations with our many friends.  The Parish Council provided a ploughman's lunch for all parishioners in the village hall where the wedding was projected on to a big screen (newly painted wall) and the bar was available for those of us not so interested in the festivities.

When we were not out enjoying sunny beach walks we also began to tidy up the garden for the summer.  The damp Devon weather means that the decking and steps to the front door need treating on an annual basis,  and the weather was for perfect for drying the two coats required.  The fresh growth on the ferns which grow naturally in the dry-stone wall was looking beautiful and the winter flowering pansies in pots were still flowering well.

Our visit was shortened slightly when we had the happy news that our third grandchild had arrived  on the scene a month earlier than anticipated. We headed home in the sunshine,admiring  the wonderful Devon scenery but very much looking forward to meeting up with the latest addition to our extended family.