August – the month to “reap what you sow”

Obviously meant in gardening terms (and this blog comes from a still–novice–and- constantly-surprised–with–what–comes-out–of-the ground– allotment– holder). But the phrase got me thinking….here we are in another, in quick succession heat wave, with drought and wild fires in the UK. Surely this is a climate example of us reaping what we have sown. Now, don’t get me wrong, I love this weather but I find it freakish and a bit scary. And the fact that it’s getting more frequent….Food for thought, right?

August is also the anniversary of the “I have a dream” speech (August 23^rd 1963). Surely one of the best speeches ever – poignant, inspirational, beautifully delivered – and no comfort at all to the still grieving relatives of the Buffalo hate crime shootings in May. How far we have come and how much farther we have to go..

On a lighter note, those who went on the Summerhill Square walk last night had a fabulous time. Such history in our city. A small area yet packed with listed buildings, one listed church and 5 commemorative plaques – to Mo Mowlam, Robert Stevenson, Dr William Rea, Frederick Douglass, Joshua Alder, all of whom made their mark on this city but in different ways. And the Bowling Pavilion and Gardens – a haven of peace and beauty slap bang in the middle. Now, who knew that…?

In true WI spirit – well, some form of spirit 🙂 – we then made our way to the Vermont Above Bar and were treated to spectacular evening views of Newcastle and a full, orange moon. And, of course, the views weren’t the only reason we were there…..hic!