Tilting at Windmills

At the time of writing I am in Holland, it is proving a great place to relax, recharge, pray, read and study the bible - and to sit and chat by roaring log fires.

This morning I went out to explore, like an adventurer into the unknown. I do not speak Dutch, so unable to chat with folk as they pass by, but their friendly sounding greetings did warm my gait.

I wandered around a pond, across a bridge, along a canal and past a heron. He decided to fly off when I went to say hello, I did though get a picture of him before he left.

Maybe when I get home I will crop the picture to get a better view...

Further along was the windmill, always fascinating to visit these - maybe before I leave I will go again in dry weather with my sketch pad.

Continuing, passed by many cycles (a great dutch activity) I crossed over a few dykes and eventually returned by a different waterway passing the Town Farm with the same windmill lurking through the trees, was he waiting to ambush me?

This, I think was my really favourite view so far today.

My study this morning was in Luke, my third day on Chapter 1 verses 1-38. So thoroughly struck by Mary's phrase, 'Behold the handmaiden of the Lord, be it unto me according to thy word.' KJV. "
I am so in agreement,  and repeat -

I am your servant O Lord, may it be to me as you lead. 

Amen

The Old Bedford Camper Van

From as early as I can remember our family owned an old Camper Van. It was a green Bedford with an expanding roof to give more headroom when the vehicle was at rest.

Two benches ran the length of each side at the back, the seats lifting to reveal valuable storage space. No seat belts in those days, so, you would usually find something to hold on to...

Up, below the ceiling,  2 stretcher like beds pulled out from the sides, hammock like canvas attached to both the wall and a wooden pole. More than once I would sleep up there as we travelled along windy country roads.

We used to 'camp out' on a heath, or by a stream. When it was dry we would abandon the van sleeping out under the stars. I cannot remember ever thinking the ground was uncomfortable.

Early mornings, exploring, picking blackberries, blueberries and anything else we knew to be edible. Usually even before breakfast we would have had our fill.

Cooking was done on a parafin filled primus, we crouched on rocks or logs - or if we were lucky, a camping stool. Cupping our hands round malamine mugs of steaming coffee or hot chocolate the warmth would seep through into our bodies. My mug was light blue with years of tanning inside.

The sunshine would blaze down for ever and ever, beaches, bird hides, walking, windmills, messing about on boats - playing games.

A world of fantastical memories...