I thought there would be time for the allotments today. My heart was very keen to get there.

First there was the matter of last minute items and foreign currency for my girl. Then lunch and checking out the final preparations for her departure. Followed by the bank for my mother and son.

And all the time my heart yearned for soil- sad really. There was a small gap before the evenings activities when I donned my wellies and headed up the road but watering was all I had time for before the evening's activities.

On leaving these poppies shone out and I couldn't resist.

Maybe next week I will be able to get my hands dirty again.