On a very wet Friday lunch time, I set off on another local shopping trip, which took me to another one of our picturesque villages. Although I have lived in the area for almost 30 years, these tasks are taking me to places that I have never been, and allowing me to see sights that I have never seen 😉😁

I met the lovely Lynda, who lives on her own, and is shielding. Having only recently moved into the area, Lynda is still getting to know her neighbours, but has already made some good friends, who help to keep her connected with the world outside her front door.

Dealing with medical issues and learning difficulties, Lynda has had a tough time during lockdown. She has suffered the loss of loved ones, and had family members struggling with illness, including Covid. Lynda’s kitchen has developed a leak, and mould is growing on the walls, but, because of the adverse weather conditions of late, work has come to a halt. All of this has meant more stress and worry for Lynda, but it has not dampened her spirits completely, and she is so very grateful to the volunteers that have been helping with shopping trips, smiling faces, and an occasional chat. She calls the volunteers her angels, and even has angel and hearts wallpaper in her hall...I’m going to see if I can get some, too.

The first thing I did for Lynda was to pick up two condolence cards and some stamps, on the way to get her shopping list. This was quite difficult, as it is such a personal thing, fortunately, Lynda was happy with my choices.

There were quite a few items on the list, and I had to visit 4 shops, before I got everything...I never enjoy shopping for myself this much 🤔. The rain had not let up all day, and by the time I arrived back at Lynda’s, I was wet through. She kept apologising for sending me out in the rain...I told her she hadn’t sent me, I volunteered...beside which, I love the rain! But I was going to enjoy a warm shower even more.

Another fast, downhill ride, all the way home...

What a rare privilege it is, to be able to help the most vulnerable members of our communities...and how humbling, too, to know how much a little of our time means to them.