Day 465: Proper Damp

WOW. I managed to scrape myself out of bed about 5.45 this morning, dress and get out onto the Heath by 6.30 to some yoga, or so I thought. I did do a bit, but goodness me, the weather was fantastic! I was treated to droplets as I got on the bike in Muswell Hill. I got to the Heath and looked for a flat spot to do yoga. I found a flat-ish one, but by that time, the thunder was booming overhead, the hill had lightning dancing all over it and the rain was angry heavy. I was delighted. Like a fool, I spread out my mat and started with the sun salutations. Only foolish because yoga mats + rain = really fucking slippery. 

My squeaky slitherings made me laugh. I persevered by scrapping the mat and going straight on the grass. Good too, but very wet indeed, and as I hadn't planned for this or dressed for it, I had no spare clothes. In the end, I stopped. I walked up the hill to the massive purplish tree and found another flat spot, which will be beautiful for future morning yoga sessions. It's within the reach of that beautiful tree and it's halfway up a hill, so it offers views both ways. Wherever the sun is coming from, I can salute it, or I can enjoy it on my back or allow it to cook one side of me. It's all in the plan. 

The storm was powerful. The thunder didn't rumble - it sounded like it was breaking the sky - the soundtrack to the end of the world. I love rain. I love storms.

I'd listen any day, letting the smell of dry ground welcoming water fill my nostrils with damp dust and enjoying fat drops running down my face and neck. If we're going to go, can I go like this, please?

The rain had stopped by the time I swam, which was a shame. They weren't allowed to let us in the water while the storm was going on, though, in case we got lightninged and cooked/electrocuted in the water. There was a jaunty cameraderie caused by that concept. I got talking to lovely Briony, who's facing something big with determination and clarity. I like her and I admire her. Every day so far, my ponding has been peppered with wonderful women who make me very happy to be there and to be part of it all. 

This afternoon, I get to don my beloved dungarees and get down in the garden. Weed-pulling, hedge-cutting, harvesting, clearing. General good stuff. I'll go and do that, then. Wish me luck. No need for luck. I have padded knees.