The stress of sax and golf

Saxophone practice has been most enjoyable and the incentive of hour-long lessons during the holidays has been quite motivating. However, an element of panic crept in when I couldn't play a bottom C in preparation for a workshop and concert I had subscribed to. It might not have been so serious if I was going to make my debut with a tiny local wind band but the thought of performing with the National Sax Choir of Great Britain (even if it was the most minor part possible) was quite daunting and the whole experience was then not only challenging but stressful. I kept telling myself that it was good for me to be out of my comfort zone but I was not too sure when it came to the day. The National Sax Choir were fantastic and I really enjoyed the concert which was pleasing from an aural and visual point of view and convinced me that I had chosen the right instrument to attempt to play.


Hiding at the back of the National Sax Choir

A good spell of weather encouraged us on to the golf course more regularly and I was gratified by the leap Wendy has made in her performance even if it means she has now beaten me on four successive occasions. Losing to Wendy is less stressful than playing in medals which always reduce me to a quiver. The most recent medal I was 11 over par but didn't lose a ball or go out of bounds once (although having to play provional balls 4 times showed how often I skirted with danger) it was just that my putting was abysmal.

We discovered a new National Trust property (new to us at it was a 15th-century Manor House) at Great Chalfield Manor and enjoyed the garden so much that we returned before the week was out - and we weren't tempted by cakes or teas as there is no catering provided (although The Courts and Laycock are not too far away).


The gazebo and reflection in the Lower Moat at Great Chalfield Manor


The stained glass window at the parish church of St Ann at Great Chalfield Manor


Honeysuckle


Water Avens


The year of the bluebell?