KW-39 Older, colder, wiser and happy

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The near-constant fog-rain-hail-rain of the last two weeks most generously broke for long enough over the weekend for the Barracks to be able to welcome guests in the best possible light. Quite literally. People came by car, with caravan; on foot, by bike. Neighbours from the village and family and friends from great distances, and it was perfect.

this was quite late. The locals, and those staying locally had all left. Just the ones spending the night at the barracks left now. They may have been singing.

I had been a little nervous. Not turning 50 - a curious seeming age which is neither “middle” or “old” - I can tell you with all the experience of someone who has been in their 50s for a little over a day - that is is all going to be ok.

A late September birthday is the last chance for a summer day to shine through the autumn. A wonderful gathering of people before the dark of winter.

I was a little worried that the warmth of the people around me, would be followed by a cliff edge to fall off, as they all left as suddenly as they came, leaving just the dark and cold for company. But, on the morning after the party, I was first awake by a couple of hours, and walking around the barracks in familiar silence, I realised that I had been ungenerous, or pessimistic, or something - wrong anyway. I had been worried that the hole left by so many people leaving at the same time would be difficult to deal with. In actual fact, they left an imprint of happiness in their wake, palpable and energising. Little ghosts of the presence of people gathered to celebrate. It was rather lovely.

cutting up a big old metal frame for the outdoor kitchen range

The winter is going to be ok.

Thank you to everyone who came, who could not come, but helped the kids out with some party money. Thank you for the presents! O.M.G, what a load of presents! To everyone who wished me a happy birthday by video, voice, over social media or in their thoughts. I appreciate every single one, and I carry you all in my heart. Most of all, to my kids. Dara and Annie, thank you for all that you did and do for me. My cup truly floweth over.

Pirate, cake, candles and kids.

And now, back to the gardening!

A very content pirate with a full heart of love wishes you all a splendid week and until next time, remains your

The Pirate Ben

xoxo