Today has been a very special day outside of the cattle grids.
After major back surgery my husband came for his first proper walk with me, that we have not been able to achieve for years! It was only a couple of miles and still with a stick, as he is still waiting hip and neck surgery, but it was with such joy that we could enjoy nature together again beyond our garden gate and without excruciating pain.
We took a trip to Silbury Hill and wandered the wild footpath to the West Kennet Long Barrow. You are all aware I have a very deep love for the New Forest, but just sometimes I miss the wildflower meadows and abundant hedgerows. We wandered and stopped for every snail, butterfly and high-speed vole.
We didn't care that we were wet from the rain-drenched foliage brushing our legs as we passed and every tree with a hole had to be looked through (for fairies!) We talked of memories, and made new plans as we walked the ancient landscape, and Phil was reminded, that every kissing gate means just that! (Plus all the ones I have been saving for him all these years.) Phil doesn't real do hand holding, but he hooks his finger into mine, and he did so naturally as he did those years ago on our carefree adventures.
When reaching the barrow, we watched a red kite fly overhead and a hare skip amongst the corn, but then I watched Phils eyes light up with the sight of his favourite bird, a kestrel hovering above our heads. We sat in silence and awe of our surroundings, just taking in the moment of a very comfortable silence.
We watched swallows dash in and out of the barrow before going to explore inside and careful not to disturb their nests. The energy was very intense and very heavy within the barrow, so we could only spend limited time in there before getting back out into the expanse of the meadow. Phil sat and observed the hunting kestrel, while I was pulled to go and pick some wildflowers to leave our offering and gratitude to this ancient site.
This time, entering the barrow with a heart full of love and gratitude and a hand full of flowers, which made the energy softened slightly.
As the clouds rolled in, we turned to head back, identifying plants and birdsong along the way. The delicious scent of meadowsweet filled the air, along with our chuckles and new plans for new adventures. Phil had to be reminded that kissing gates have the same meaning on the way back 💋 as we fell back into the rythmn of nature and our hearts and footsteps sync with that rythmn after nearly 10 years of walking alone, although he always accompanied me in my heart.
We left with gratitude, hopes, dreams and a few foraged goodies from the abundant larder 🙏
Comments