Wood'n'Things

Thanks for all your lovely comments on my yesterblip of the natural world. Today my collage is of artifacts created from nature's bounty, when M took me to Semi Heaven ... a semi-detached house a few miles up the road in Cleeve. 

It belongs to Renate and Paul O'Donnell who are both members of the Somerset Guild of Craftsmen. Paul began his career as a cabinet maker and over the years became ever more creative with wood. He and his wife Renate's artistic skills (such as knitting, felting, painting greetings cards, and more) complement each other and sometimes combine. As soon as you step on to their pebbled drive you are entering the gates of heaven. Their garden is a joy in itself and both outdoors and indoors are examples of their art as well as showcasing and selling work of other Somerset crafters. 

We were served freshly made scones and coffee in another part of their garden and spent a long time perusing all the lovely items for sale. I bought a number of things - a couple of items for the new house (if and when we ever complete and agree on a moving date!) - and some presents for family members. Could have spent a fortune, had I had one! What a lovely pair they are, too. They met in Bavaria and, neither speaking the other's language, somehow became a couple, clearly dovetailing their talents and way of life. They've been together 43 years.

So, back to the semi ... well, it was a cross between Dr Who's TARDIS (it seemed so big inside) and Aladdin's Cave (filled with treasure). If you're ever in the area, Wood'n'Things are well worth a visit. NB This is not a promotional blip; I'm simply sharing our delightful morning, spent with two lovely, creative people whom I'd never met before.