The Community Hall was awash with young sprites this morning when I arrived to help with the Spring Sprite club. I had helped out yesterday afternoon,but opted for a morning session today,so that I could have a relaxing afternoon.I set up painting easels,paints and paper in double quick time thanks to the help of two young brownie brothers whose middle name seemed to be " co-operation". A rare pair in this sea of mischief. They also helped Queen Brighid the Bright to set up the snack corner,although their bulging pockets after they had finished did suggest that a large quantity of the apple and avocado crisps had failed to make it to the plates. Well ,at least they were rewarded for their industry ,if not their honesty. Cascades of colour were being splashed on to the large sections of newsprint in my corner, eliciting happy laughter from the young artists. For a moment it took me back to my teaching days, and reminded me how rewarding the company of the very young can be.Lunchtime came ,and my shift finished,leaving me free to have a wickedly healthy lunch at the "Alfresco Cafe " in Lower Dingley Dell. There are a few tables outside,but it never looked warm enough or dry enough to take advantage of one. Aristotle the Boggart boy was by the till. He is a very friendly young fellow, and generous to boot, as I always find my meal to have acquired an unusually large portion,and my acorn coffee to be delivered in a supersized mug. If my love handles should suddenly increase in size ,we will all know it is the boggart boy to blame.The "Alfresco" is small so it invariably looks full all the time,but there was one table in prime position(not near the draughty door)when I arrived.I ordered some acorn coffee and a wedge of cauliflower quiche,with a chicory and chickpea salad on the side.My delicious repast turned up within two minutes,as I took in the quaintly beautiful surroundings.There are lots of paintings on two of the walls,all carried out by local artists,and jewellery for sale hangs by the door and windows.There were many colourful faery folk coming and going from the cafe,brought out no doubt by the shimmering sunshine on the Big Water. Taking further note, it seemed that there were many of our more aged residents out today,strolling round Dingley Dell with their grandfaery babes, and all stopping off at the "Alfresco" for a cuppa and a breather. If I were a more cynical Rainbow Faery, I would say that they had been dumped on, but maybe they were just not fast enough to hide behind the door when their loved ones arrived.One of the penalties of creaky joints and a responsible heart, I suppose. Aristotle duly came to offer me an acorn coffee top-up,and I completed my lunchtime by addressing some letters and cards for posting.Outside again in the pouring rain I made my way to the Dingley Dell Charity shop. I had found some unwanted kitchen items,some soft toys from my days at Dingley Dell, and a few parchment books telling tales of yore. The volunteer ladies of mercy were putting out new merchandise and tidying up when I approached the counter. Old Elsie Crabwhistle was teetering along in the back shop,humping large sacks of clothing from one place to another,slightly tipping over each time like a listing ship. At the till, Aggropina Columbine was puzzling over the small change she needed to return to a buyer of two small crystal glasses.Aggropina is even more aged than Elsie,a shadowy whisp of a creature, who breathes heavily as though it just might be her last.There is no denying the commitment of these white haired gals,but I fully expect on some occasion to find them laid out on the charity shop floor when I call with my left over spoils. "Shall I leave these things here ? "I said, putting the bags on the counter. "Thank you " she rasped slowly, breathing in heavily and clinging on to the counter. I left quickly ,hoping the buyer at the desk could administer the kiss of life ,if necessary.My knowledge only extends to mustard poultices and wart potions, so I hope they never have to depend on me. The next half hour was spent in the Community book shop,rummaging through an assortment of parchments. I bought one full of "Recipes of the Ancient World ". I may try some of them out on Pendragon,as he claims to be in touch with his historical side. (or is it his hysterical side ?) Walking back up the hill again on my way home,the heavens opened and a heavy shower of rain soaked me through to my gossamer top. I was drenched, and getting wetter. By the time I put my key in the toadstool keyhole, I knew I would have to wring out my clothes and dry myself by the log fire. Once inside, cosily drinking my hot hazelnut chocolate, and wrapped up in my fleecy dressing robe,I thought how lucky a faery am I, to have this lovely toadstool home, my dear Pendragon to share it with, and to be able to spend the rest of the afternoon indoors reading,while the wind howls and the rain pours, outside .I am truly blessed. Much love to you all my friends, and may you all have a blessed weekend. From Amarantha Willow,the Rainbow Faery.
