Chapter 9 - Progress? What progress?

We are at a standstill, no more work on our building for the foreseeable future until we can submit the detailed plans to building control. However, Team Rose did reveal a rather fab brass window frame and granite sign board at the front of the shop. A reminder of past quality and pride in the building. Soon to be re-established.

What to do?

Well. Time to get out and about and become more absorbed in the area. We have joined a number of local galleries, museums and places of interest.  Next stop on the history trail was Bodium Castle. We spent a very jolly time (in the rain of course) climbing up and down, in and out of a very interesting and historic pile which was a wonderfully absorbing medieval experience. You really got the feel of a thriving, working castle and the people who lived and worked there. Good old National Trust. Joined on the spot.

And then….the first evidence of spring. Snowdrops. Little clumps of them growing along the verges, in parks and gardens. Daffodils, golden hosts all over the place. Lovely. Makes one feel that it won’t be long now until? Well, less rain and more warm sunny days we hope.

And so to Rye.

Yes, it is everything that one has been told about this delightful little town with its pretty streets, lovely old buildings and almost every shop an independent. Such a joy to discover interesting and creative retail. And then, when you feel a little bit peckish The Fig awaits. Must be one of the best little restaurants for miles.

However, what really had me at the first ‘Hello’ was Rye Chocolates. I do not pretend to be an expert but I know what I like and have been honing my palette for decades. Starting with Harrods dark chocolate truffles in the late 60’s and progressing enthusiastically to a number of excellent quality and organic brands. However, Rye Chocolates rules! A majestic choice of flavours and blends. Is that the correct term? Don’t know. Anyway you get my meaning. 

And finally…..

A truly uplifting and awe inspiring experience. The Hastings International Piano Concerto Competition. In it’s 17th year. It runs for just over a week and the 40 contestants come from all over the world and are all under the age of 30. With the competition running throughout the week till the entrants are whittled down to 6 finalist, I had a brilliant time attending a number of the rounds culminating on the Saturday when the winner was chosen – Curtis Phill Hsu. All of 19 years old.

So that finished the month with a flourish. 

What is next I wonder?