Andrew on the ladderAlthough there are scores (nay hundereds!) of rabbits to be seen in the nearby fields generally they are rather shy neighbours and shun our benevolent contact. However this week one brave rabbit was to be seen almost everyday loitering around our car park hedge, fearlessly observing the peaceful comings and goings of the community. Had it been irresistably drawn to the wholesomeness of Kusala House? Perhaps, but probably not; a closer inspection revealed that our furry friend had in fact discovered some delicious new grass growing amongst a low stone 'wall' one of our regular guests from the Carlisle group had built to help support the hedge. Hmm, Nature's flora and fauna are always waiting to usurp and take advantage of our man-made achievements. At least our other human guests this week had been attracted by the wholesome opportunities afforded by the retreat house and have been making good use of its facilities (whilst refraining from eating grass in the afternoon). The monastic community also have been back at work after the Silent Week, naturally.
Also this week we have felt the first touch of Winter's ragged hand. This morning's brief snowfall was whipped around by a bitter wind such that one could have been forgiven for thinking it was a proper blizzard, a taste of things to come no doubt. (Let's hope that when Ajahn Punnyo rejoins us on Friday from the heat of Thailand he'll quickly readjust to the cold and dark of good ol' Blighty).
