Lovesick Retreatants

The good snow of last week was a transient joy. In its wake followed a full two days of Northumbrian foulness, giving way to sunlight on Sunday evening as myself and John (aforementioned strong arm of the law and the library) trotted across Shaftoe Crags. Back in the kitchen Radek opened the week with a three day culinary stint that was sandwiched at either end by visiting contributors: Amongst them my bio-ethical friend Callum who came by to scrub potatoes, argue about their dignity, and fill us in on the latest in animal-human hybrids. Whilst downstairs, this morning, Kath is working miracles turning the kitchen into a sauna whilst generously preparing the midday meal. The only other news to report is that no one received a Valentines card this week. Which in the case of one community member is definitely not surprising: “Isn’t that the day you’re supposed to be nice to your mother?”

Outside in the larder we are feeling a lot less deprived, although the following would be helpful in taking us toward the end of February and in sustaining Radek through his solitary month of March:

• lettuce
• tomatoes
• onions
• mushrooms
• peppers

In the stores the following would be gratefully received:

• stamps (any value)
• firewood
• danish oil
• ecover washing powder

And thank you but we’ve plenty of fruit, salt, toothbrushes, instant coffee, towels, tins and rice.