Mid-Balfunning, Thursday, May, 28, 2015.
Since opening in April, Stable Lodge, has welcomed a succession of very pleasant and interesting guests – from all parts –from the USA, to the Middle East – and quite a few from the UK!
Spring has brought out the daffodils, bluebells, and now the trees are approaching full leaf and the burgeoning new foliage on the beech hedges makes our morning walk even more pleasant.
At this time of year, our lawn and meadow maintenance are in full swing – and this year the results of everyone’s hard work have been particularly rewarding. It is so nice to feel springy grass underfoot and contemplate the fact that it will remain so for the summer and autumn months to come.
The advance of spring has also brought out the beauty of the gardens and the changeable but mainly dry, cool weather has meant that the rhododendrons and azaleas are remaining in full bloom for even longer than usual.
Our spaniel, Glennie, has found himself welcoming all sorts of friendly dogs. So far they seem to be smaller dogs, like himself, and all seem to thoroughly enjoy the freedom of the parkland and meadows that surround Stable Lodge.
The April weather was incredibly fine – driest and sunniest on record – interspersed with sunshine and showers which of course display our outlook to the greatest advantage. So far, May has seen more changeable weather – and the new wood-burning stove has continued to be very popular –it adds so much to the ambience in the lodge. Interestingly also, our solar generation is running 25% ahead of last year.
Our occupancy level has increased steadily & feedback from our guests has been very positive – with several commenting that their welcome at Stable Lodge and its environs is so much nicer than being “handed the key and told where to find it”.
In such a short space of time having Stable Lodge welcoming guests has become very much a pleasant part of our life, and everyone seems to enjoy the ambience and freedom of our little estate – with many expressing their hope for an early return.
LG, 28/05/15