The Out & About Gazette: Visiting Waterperry Gardens
I recalled one of our very first Out & Abouters, Michelina, born in Italy, who wisely said “if you took any notice of the forecast in England you wouldn’t go anywhere”. With her advice in mind, we trundled down the M40 to Waterperry Gardens, ignoring the grey skies. Our group was an intimate ten, welcoming Tisha aboard for the first time.
With our glass half full (of imaginary Italian wine) there was 65 per cent chance of dry weather reducing to 57 percent at lunchtime. A moderate breeze was forecast. I thought of Mary Poppins as I handed out our umbrellas. My vision of us sitting in beautiful sunshine amidst the trees, enjoying a picnic, remains a dream to be fulfilled another time. On the prior Sunday I had accepted the forecast and booked The Bridge in Wheatley for lunch.
We took a gentle “bench hop” around these glorious gardens armed with umbrellas. At this time of year, the herbaceous flower beds are magnificent. The recent heatwaves had not diminished their beauty. They must be well mulched to survive such heat and were a credit to the gardeners.
The gardens proved to be sheltered from the moderate breeze. I would call it a warm gale. Halfway round we tucked into the chocolates my colleague, Shahida gave me. She said she didn’t want to see them in a raffle! Sharing is much better for the waistline and ensures magnified appreciation.
At 1 pm, I breathed a sigh of relief. We were sat on yet another bench, waiting for Andy to bring the minibus to us, feeling the first spots of precipitation. Foolish me thought my troubles were over. With our main courses already chosen we were off to lunch or so I thought.
My phone shrilled. It was The Bridge, saying they had a power cut. They couldn’t predict when they would be operational.
My eyes scanned the café at Waterperry. The walls seemed to bulge with people, all tucking into lunches, out of our budget, which are not to the taste of Out & Abouters. I visualized bedlam trying to seat everyone together and find something to the liking of each person.
I leapt at The Bridge’s offer to call The Blacksmiths Arms in High Wycombe. I was sure they would have more clout than me. We sat with bated breath upon our minibus, praying for good
fortune. Good fortune came our way. Five minutes later we sailed past The Bridge in darkness, on route to The Blacksmith’s Arms.
On arrival I was greeted with a hug. Angie was so pleased to see us again and we were so pleased to see her! Our usual table was ready and waiting. What more can you ask? I am truly grateful to both Harvesters who ensured we had lunch concluding another lovely Out & About.
