Spring was only just emerging in the haute fagnes forest in belgium where french boy and i spent our very restful, computer-free weekend. We walked, talked, explored, sat in the forest, listened to the birds, caught some afternoon sun on the terrace (I’ve got colours), and slept. It was just what we needed – some time away from the city hum and crazy work commitments. We stumbled upon a castle, hidden deep inside the forest, and as we climbed the ancient stone stairs I imagined myself as a maiden, standing on the landing, hoping with all her heart to see her warrior lover come over the hill. I asked French Boy if he would come back for me and he said “without a doubt”. I said, “would you be missing a limb?” and he asked “would you still love me if I was?” and I said “without a doubt”.

A walk in a forest in spring is such wonderful medicine for the heart and soul…

…was wonderful.

if i can’t be by my sea, then sit me in the middle of a forest and i will be a happy girl.

would you like to see more?

…between the Rijks Museum bell towers. This beautiful city never ceases to amaze & inspire me.

…but I’ll be back tomorrow afternoon to continue our nesting series here in the (blog)house! Until then, happy nesting, my fellow nesters.

xx

My Great Uncle Ron introduced me to the piano when I was just 3 years old. He had a garage full of dusty old pianos that he bought, sold, tuned, and played. When he came to visit he would always tune my piano. He did it the old fashioned way – with his ear and a simple tuning fork. When he was satisfied with his work he would play the most fabulous tunes – old honky tonk numbers were among his favourites. Then we would play a little duet together. Usually heart and soul.

Last week my Great Uncle Ron passed away.

I wrote a little piece of music a few months ago, and although it’s incomplete I found myself playing it over and over again last week, while thinking about all the fond memories I have of my Great Uncle. If it wasn’t for his love of pianos, I’m not sure I would have ever learned to play. So thank you Uncle Ronny, this one is for you. I thought that maybe if I put this out in the airwaves, it might reach you, somehow…

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