Made it!

Well, I made it. The proof of the pudding is in the blip, and what a pudding I look in that raincoat!

Today my mystery outing was to a plant sale at Philip Jackson, the sculptor's house, in aid of a charity called Murray Downland Trust which revives and looks after areas of the South Downs to provide habitat for wild flowers, butterflies etc in 5 reserves over the Chalkland Downs. As you can imagine from some previous blips of sculptures, I was longing to get a chance to step inside Philip's garden and have a little nosy.but wasn't sure until this morning if I could actually make it. Lots of natural ponds and flowing water, hillsides, and his contemporary house overlooking the lot. Just magical at this moment when springs turns slowly into summer.

After a lovely morning, the skies opened as we got out at the gate, terrific downpour. We asked if we might venture round the garden but due to the steepness I only looked at the views today, although there are of course some of his works dotted around. We saw Philip scuttling about, head down, looking very busy but not stopping. Can't blame him with puddings like me waiting to pounce and accost him.

Another charity had been giving demonstrations in the gardens, Canine Partners who train helping dogs for people with disabilities. The most famous of their dogs is Endal, a beautiful golden Labrador. His partner, Allen Parton, wrote a popular book about him, an intelligent and loving dog who has won many awards including the 2002 PDSA Gold Medal, (the animal equivalent of the George Cross . Many of Endal's innovations were of his own making, including learning to do the chip and pin for Allen at supermarkets and banks. It was lovely to see the delightful labradoodle cross and gold lab who had been demonstrating their skills today, gorgeous dogs.

So apart from getting a superb incentive to get out other than for the hospital, to buy plants and contribute something to our lovely Downlands, I saw yer man AND his home, and I feel I've really made an important step forwards today. Thanks, Mr. J...... and my beloved for all his encouragement and help in the last week. Couldn't have done it without you.

Frieda, you would have loved it :-)