As we drove along, the hedges became higher and the occasional gap provided glimpses of spectacular homes that looked like film sets from the 1930s. On the horizon unusual round Oast houses appeared and then soon came closer for inspection.
An Oast house or hop kiln is designed for kilning or drying hops as part of the brewing process. These are two or three story buildings where the hops were spread out to dry by the hot air derived from the charcoal fire kiln at the bottom. The oldest Oast house dates back to 1750 but most of them have been converted into picturesque homes by now.
We were so busy admiring the view that we missed the turn for the Castle and just about the time we realised we were lost I saw a sign that said Gribble Bridge Lane
Gribble Bridge Lane
Hot Dogs
Here in leafy Surrey the temperature is rising and the air is still. I am house sitting and looking after two cute dogs. A large flat coat and a smaller but definitely most boisterous springer spaniel.
Deciding to -just have five minutes- I sat down on the sofa with my computer on my lap.
An hour must have passed and the sound of the golf commentary forced me slowly back to reality.
Sitting next to me on my left with her head on my shoulder was the spaniel Bea. Lying drunkenly across my lap was a very hot computer being pushed askance by a very large black dog ,Bella. Her warm breathe reached all around me negating any cool breeze from the open window.
I love these dogs but perhaps not so close whilst the mercury rises.
As I pushed myself free of cables and canines I filled a glass with iced water and two bowls with the same elixir for my thirsty charges…….
A Sunday afternoon.
Music festival in the park and a roast chicken dinner to follow.Every one is too hot to eat.it will salad only until the weather cools down. I love having my little brother to stay.
Carole McCall Author and Coach 