Wednesday 23 July 2008

out of the habit


Since Oxford, we've also been back to Shropshire. It rained a lot, but the spirits weren't dampened one jot. A walk along Offa's Dyke proved exhausting, predicted by a conversation with a couple we met who were walking the Dyke over a week or so, who told us the stretch we were on was nicknamed "The Switchback". Indeed. Still, we were thrilled to see red kites soaring above us as we laboured away. We camped at a site with panoramic views of the Long Mynd, Stiperstones and Wenlock Edge. It's a fantastic county and, of course, our thoughts turned to a possible move. Actually, it's been part of my secret plan for ages (at least 25 years), which (shush) seems to be bearing just the tiniest hint of fruit. So, off there again next week ... It's obviously not a great time to be moving, and there is the minute detail of gainful employment to consider.

Meanwhile, back in the village, we are just getting over a 10 day festival, which saw us throwing teddy bears off the church tower (as you do, have to make your own fun, etc.), endless quizzes, much wine drinking, and a picnic and concert. The latter was a mixed affair - sumptuous picnic provided by chums, sitting about wondering what the poor people were doing, etc. The concert was well meaning and enjoyable for the audience participation which ensued. I hasten to say, this was encouraged by the performers. We were lucky to be sitting in front of a small number of enthusiastic joiners-in. We were unlucky in that we were sitting behind a row of stony-faced non-joiners-in. I mean, what else do you do (doobee-doobee-doo) when faced with songs from the shows? Sit there thinking about the credit crunch? I'm sure I was much too loud, with my singing along and appreciative comments to the fun folk behind us, but what the heck.