The world from my window

On the longest day, we returned to the fairy woods . We scuttled around, children shrieking as they opened the doors at the foot of tree trunks to find little things for little people.           Since our last visit a couple of years ago, a few of the doors are in need of a bit of tender, loving care. But there are new additions springing up all the time in the enchanted forest, which is a ten-minute drive from Lush Places. We even saw a fairy homestead complete with swings, slide and a tea set. It was called Fairytopia.   You just have to believe. And, having had this picture on the wall of the bedroom I shared with my sister, I can tell you I do. It's called Do You Believe in Fairies and it's by Margaret W Tarrant. Our magical day began in our own enchanted village with a walk up towards Bluebell Hill. And then, my Midsummer's Eve grandchild and I called in at Bridport on a friend who was launching  a children'...

Up on the hill, Mr Loggins and his wife, Darling, take a step back and admire their achievement. From the ruins of the Love Shack, where two years ago I blogged about Mr Loggins and his 'chimbley' and 'windle' (he is from Bridport, remember) and parthenon gable, something rather beautiful has sprung up  in its place. It took its time, this wooden house on the hill, but they should be very pleased with themselves. It's beautiful. And a fantastic view from all directions. And you, too, can enjoy it because they'll be opening up soon for B&B guests. (Although if you fancy tapping into the energy of the village ley lines, you should think about booking into Mr and Mrs Champagne-Charlie's, our next door neighbours). Last night, up at the Brand New Love Shack, after we had supped on sausage casserole and mash followed by old fashioned English trifle and Mr Grigg's rhubarb crumble, Pelly Sheepwash, Mrs Bubble Champagne-Charlie and I made our way hom...

High up on Bluebell Hill, you can forget the world around you. You wouldn't know the United Kingdom had voted yesterday on a new electoral system. You wouldn't know the shooting of the world's most wanted man was causing a furore around the globe. Dorset's highest point is a peaceful place for an early morning walk. It makes you feel good to be alive and proud to be English, as a soundtrack of Vaughan Williams plays through your head. As the day progresses, you can sometimes meet Tuppence here, trilling like a canary, or Ding Dong Daddy recording birdsong in Lush Places, or Mr Sheepwash out with binoculars looking for ravens. On the way up, the gypsy lace gently nods in the lane, in contrast to its furious movements earlier this week when the wind whipped through these parts. The pink campions and the buttercups clamour for sunlight and jostle for space along the verge, like the crowds lining the streets for a royal wedding. Dead nettles, when upturned, showing two perf...