Roads to Joy

After a prolonged wet spell, when we yearned for the simple protection of a veranda over our heads, so that we could enjoy the outdoors in relative comfort, May turned dry and the friendly builders installed both frame and glass panels of the Simplicity 6 system. Plants in their outdoor pots began to wither before the rolling thunder yesterday afternoon heralded the possibility of rain.

But the dark clouds drifted away, and the storm seemed to pass over, as we waited, expectantly, on comfy chairs, our noses twitching with the smell of imminent rain, for the liquid drops to patter down on the new veranda roof. It was looking like our simple hope would be dashed, until the tail end of the storm released a few droplets, and then a few more, until the roof panes were quite spattered, and we, sitting bemused beneath, remained dry and unruffled.

Sooner or later, it seems, we get what we wish for. It’s not always what we might expect, but having considered as many angles of the new situation as one could, it’s something we can accommodate. For example, though our heads were protected from the rain, our feet would inevitably get damp from the water rivulets running across the open patio. Little worry, that, but something to remember. Don’t track your wet feet onto the carpet!

And the cat, as dry as toast, on her own upholstered seat under the veranda, sat up straight and yawned at us.

We too, whenever we wish, will hope to spend many more hours in such comfort, breathing the outside air fresh-washed by the rain, and admiring the garden.