A Drenching

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We returned yesterday from one of our regular trips to the Langdale Valley in the Lake District. Oh my, how it rained during our week long stay; torrentially, for days or so it seemed. It started an hour or so after we arrived late on Saturday afternoon and then continued almost unabated until Thursday when we had intermittent showers. Sunshine finally arrived on Friday when we were at last able to leave waterproofs on the peg and don T-shirts instead.

Years ago, when I was working and holidays were a precious resource, a week's drenching of that magnitude would have been viewed as a vacation disaster. Even in retirement and until recently, I might have viewed it with severe disappointment. These days, less so.

Living temporarily as we are on an urban housing estate, plunging ourselves into the joys of woodland living, overlooking a roaring beck with a backdrop of fells (we couldn't see anything higher for the low cloud), was an absolute delight regardless of the tempest around us. There's no easier way to relax and recharge than when you are surrounded by nature whatever the conditions. Having traded our customary daily view across fields and towards the Dales for houses opposite and around with their associated movement of vehicles and people, huddling down in the greenery is sheer bliss.

Of course, we had entertainment in the form of close family and with Grandotty at an age where jumping in puddles and looking for ducks provides never ending excitement, there was no opportunity for boredom or misery. It was a wonderful wet weather week!

 

 


Comments

Treaders said…
A rained out holiday when you're working is a whole different kettle of fish than when you're retired isn't it. You might not appreciate all that rain but it's a good excuse to settle in and do something else, isn't it!
2 September 2024 at 08:59
Caree Risover said…
You are so right and I didn’t mention the gin tasting, did I?
2 September 2024 at 09:08
Christie Hawkes said…
I'm so glad you were able to make the most of your get-away, even in the torrential rain. I couldn't agree more with your statement: There's no easier way to relax and recharge than when you are surrounded by nature whatever the conditions. And, of course, the energy and enthusiasm of children always helps.
2 September 2024 at 19:15
Caree Risover said…
The natural world always lifts the spirit and I continue to be amazed at just how much energy little children expend.
2 September 2024 at 19:31
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