DONKEY OR WELL

In the deep jungle at the top of the garden R has uncovered a mound whilst clearing brambles.

This mound may be the earth dug up when a new well was put in by TJ, the previous owner but - donkey?

We know from C&C in Hebden Bridge that there is a donkey buried somewhere in the garden.

I think that it is now between the house and the pond under the extra hardcore we brought in to build the house - but?

We know that TJ's ashes are scattered at the top of the garden near where a clump of wonderful primroses burst forth each spring - as if he is saying, "I am still here in this beautiful place."

There are the tops of two wells in the garden - the one by the mound and another lower down. When we first came to the Nook this was the only water supply.

Being inquisitive I lifted the lid to find a mouse nest in the polystyrene insulation on top of the well. The animals scattered in all directions.

To commemorate this R was given a knitted mouse by the mother of the friend of C who is the daughter of TJ.

To make the well safe - for grandchildren - the lid is now nailed down and enclosed in wire netting.

I am striving to grow a rose over it.

It is hidden in the flowering currant to the top left of the second picture.

The steps were made by son R from cast-off scaffolding planks - not deemed safe for use by the company and available for a small sum.

They make good edging for vegetable beds and as the board walk by the pond.

The surface of the steps, laid two years ago, was wood chippings but most of this has now been replaced by slate ones.

Ah! Yes, the wheelbarrow story - bought new wheelbarrow from West Cumberland Farmers with plastic grips on handles - forgot to tell the electrician, JT, putting in cable to Wendy House that there was a problem. Off he set down the steep path with a barrow load of chippings and he was left standing with the grips in his hands as the wheelbarrow careered away into the bottom!

Enough - was going strimming but is raining AGAIN!