Pottering about

Today started with a visit to Bannatyne Health Club for a swim. Or, at least, a self-directed aquatherapy session. They keep a very nice 25m pool, which looks out onto a stand of woods.

Even in glorious Arcadia, I sometimes need to do the laundry. Mr Arcadia installed some hanging basket hooks for Jo, our kind host. We both did some work. Thus the glamorous life of a digital nomad.

Jobs done, in the afternoon we went to Ickworth. Scones on the terrace is very civilised. I can recommend blackcurrant jam on a fruit scone with clotted cream. The cheese scones were good too. The barista made a very good coffee.

A pair of local crows were keeping an oh-so-casual eye on any vacated tables. After a fly-by to confirm the presence of a cream pot (with some cream left), one swooped in and grabbed it before the staff could shoo it away. It high-tailed it back to the boughs of a nearby pine tree, where it danced a triumphant and ecstatic dance. The whole tree seemed to dance, bouncing under its weight. When the next table vacated, the crows did another reconnaissance run but were disappointed. The couple had only drunk tea.

Refreshed, we strolled along the wall around the Italianate Garden. Its a clever design, a large walled bank protects the garden with its exotic plants. Its wide enough for a gravel path perhaps 10ft wide to run along the top so you can enjoy any breezes, and admire the fine country.

We settled a shady bench in the garden, and read our books for a while. Quite blissful.

Exited via the gift shop. I enjoy a browse. There are always featured local artists to enjoy. I’ve seen a gorgeous shawl that tempts me. The National Trust are celebrating the centenary of Women’s Suffrage. Each property has displays focussed on the women in its history. I was very taken with a felt suffragette, a votes for women lapel pin, and a white mug printed with a purple word salad of suitable words including ‘women’ ‘work’ and ‘power’.

Stopped in at Cooks Forge Barn and visited with Caroline, who was hard at work with the horses. Smudge the cat remembered us and came up for a pet. Harry the Jackahuaha remembered us too (or he’s just universally friendly, take your pick). Eventually old Badger bumbled out to say hello. He’s 14 now, rather blind and deaf, but seemed pleased to have a cuddle. Nelly, the newest pack member, decided that if everyone else liked us we must be a good thing. We were so busy petting I forgot to take my usual photo of Mr A festooned with canines.

Home again to dinner of leftover crustless quiche (even tastier 2 days later) and a bit of knitting. Mr A. has been researching accommodation options for his trip to Tank Fest next week. We’re both feeling a bit drunk on sunshine and fresh air.