Wednesday, 21 May 2025

Quiet spaces

 I suspect many of us have had to seek out a quiet place from time to time where we can gather our thoughts and recalibrate before heading back out into the real world to face whatever is causing us stress or upset. That space will look very different to each and every person. David was back in hospital on Sunday having a follow up biopsy [routine] and it's the results of this which will determine what treatment course he's put on to. We arrived for a 7am check in, but he didn't go in until 14.30 and despite the early start the surgeon wasn't sure if he'd have time to operate. Thankfully it went ahead, but in the minutes he'd gone I suddenly had a small wobble and the emotions around me of people inconsolable with grief in the corridors or having a mental health crisis was too much and I bolted to the sanctuary of the chapel where I could have a few minutes on my own and steady the ship. I am pleased to say that it all went smoothly and this time round we knew what to expect. For practical reasons we'll be based back here for the next few days until he's healed. Before I went up to collect him I saw two newborn babies which was truly life affirming and it felt like the circle of life had been properly completed. 

Should you ever find yourself in Guildford I can heartily recommend this place as somewhere to catch your breath. This is the restored Japanese garden in Stoke Park...TYM was dead chuffed as this was his discovery not ours and free entry. We recently spent some happy family time together sitting under the trees whilst it piddled down enjoying a coffee from the nearby cafe. Even with it raining for some of the time it still caught us up in its magic. Plus spot the naff croc🐊






I will endeavour [am not making any promises mind as it's the kiss of death if I do!] to show you what else we got up to on 'The Fam' day out.

Arilx



6 comments:

  1. What a beautiful garden. That would soothe anyone's soul. I hope the results of the biopsy are good. x

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  2. What a perfect place to catch one's breath! Obviously, I immediately spotted the naff croc :-)
    I'm totally getting why you needed to escape to the quiet of that chapel. Keeping my fingers crossed that all is well! xxx

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  3. Sending you all positive vibes. The garden looks like a true retreat and I agree with the newborn baby reflection. I met a former coworker earlier in the month and got a baby cuddle in. Cheered me up immensely.

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  4. I'm so glad David had his surgery, what a long and traumatic wait you must have had. I hope your wobbles are behind you and I'm glad you found somewhere tranquil to lift your spirits.
    Those Japanese gardens are stunning. xxx

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  5. Oh I do love a Japanese garden, I have tried to incorporate some of Japanesey feel to my own tiny plot though tis still very much a work in progress. Lovely pictures by the way.

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  6. What a gorgeous place! Just beautiful. My best thoughts to you and to your family. You are entitled to a wobble, though. Treat yourself kindly during these days.

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