Please click the photo’s to enlarge.
I travelled back to the place I grew up last weekend. It brought back so many memories for me. Of a time when I was a young girl with no idea of where life would take me.
Each Sunday I would walk the 15 minutes distance of the village from our home to walk up to the Chapel where we would go to Sunday School in the Methodist Chapel. Often we would walk it twice a day on Sunday as we went to afternoon service and evenings on a special occasion, such as Easter or Harvest Festivals..
I being the eldest of 5 siblings would lead my bother and 3 sisters by the hand as we would Sing in the choir, often being the only choir some weeks. I often think we were made to go, just so as my Mother and Father could get some peace for a couple of hours.
On my revisit last weekend I walked that same distance, today however the chapel is no long a place of worship but converted into a private dwelling.
At one time I would have been able to name every one who lived in our village by name. Now apart from a few relations and old family’s still there most are now strangers,
Below is where I did the Maypole dance when I was a child with the village junior school. Weaving in and out holding coloured ribbons we would dance in front of the Parish Church St Martin’s. Bunting was spread out between the houses as it is now. We would practice long hours at Stoney Middleton Primary School so as we would not get our ribbons all twisted wrongly as we made our webs and patterns with the ribbons around the Maypole as the boys and girls skipped around..
Back then the older children of the village were allowed to help make the boarders of the main Well Dressing, while the adults created the main body of the wells. I am unsure as to how the village now organises its creation.
So what is a Well Dressing?
A Well Dressing is an old custom that the Village of Stoney Middleton has now been taking part in for the last 80 years. It is the Thanksgiving for the Spring water supply that dates back to ancient times of 1600 BC when the Peak District was occupied by a tribe of people called the Brigantia’s who took their name from Brigantia ( the Holy One ) a Goddess who was a protector that formed a bridge between the Spiritual and Material Worlds. Below her lay many lesser’] ‘Deities’ who were believed to be embedded in stone and Trees. The most special of these were the Rowan and the Oak trees. But also Water that sprung from the wells from out of the Limestone and grit-stone was revered
Many of these Springs were warm.. And the one in Stoney Middleton pictured here with this beautiful Woodpecker which my nephew designed Here is a Thermal Spring. ..
These springs were thought to come from the fiery underworld. The Spring Here is a constant temperature of 63 Degs even in winter. And today as back in my younger days, many of the villages would take there cars to the trough that overspills onto the road leading to the cemetry and wash their cars in warm water.
So back in those ancient times effigies were placed along with offerings near these caves and springs as the water was felt to have healing properties . Which led to the wells being dressed on May the 1st as an offering to the spring festival of Beltane as springs of flowers and branches would be left to honour Spring. The custom progressed within the Christian Churches which is carried on today called Well Dressing Week.
Many of the villages grow flowers in their gardens and allotments specifically to collect the petals and leaves.. The frame is made and filled with clay mixture.. When I was a child the adults would soak the clay in the local brook. And Everyone would have to work quickly, often we as children would carefully peel the petals so they were separated and we were allowed to do certain parts.. While the main picture was done by the adults who knew what they were doing. All of this is done voluntary.
Events are scheduled throughout the village week.. With Tug of War, Brass Bands, Maypole Dancing, Treasure Hunts, Cake stalls and competitions, while others have made cards, sell plants, and seeds and all proceeds are shared out among village projects and charities.
Below you can see the separate Petals used, and the seeds, pebbles, bark, leaves and stems used to create the Picture forming the Well Dressings.
Here is the restored Roman Bath House..
More can be found here about the Roman Baths and Stoney Middleton HERE
We walked around some of the village reminiscing as we went . Here I used to walk to the shop which was at the time of my childhood one of two in the village. We also had a Post office and 3 Pubs back then.. Sadly this is the state of the front of the Old shop now.. There are no shops or Post Office in the village now.. The nearest shop and post office is in the next village or local Town.. And there is only now One Pub left in the village which is the Moon Inn.. which is steeped in its own History and Dark Past which can be found HERE. A sad state of the times as people bought the house attached to the back but as yet have let the front shop fall into decay.
Before we left we went to say goodbye to some old family and friends who are no longer with us but who are close to us in spirit, And I said good bye as I reflected how quickly these last 41 years have sped by since I left the village for good when I got married in 1975..
If you want to find out more and see more of past well dressings you can see the progress of how one is made then click the link Here
All Above photo’s were taken by myself
Source’s:
http://stoneymiddletonwelldressing.org/Gallery/building_a_well/
http://www.derbyshire-peakdistrict.co.uk/stoneymiddleton.htm
Eddie Two Hawks
Jul 31, 2016 @ 14:53:10
Returning from ‘God’s heart’ just in time to read your new your post.
beautiful thoughts for a Sunday morning (any morning)
with love and peace, Eddie
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Jul 31, 2016 @ 15:01:43
🙂 thank you Kindly Eddie 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Erika Kind
Jul 31, 2016 @ 14:57:55
So lovely you shared this with us, Sue. It is always a special feeling to get back to a place we once were so familiar with. Back in the old times, dwelling in memories, happy about seeing so many things we used to know, and then again it appears like a story we once read…. at least that is a feeling I get so often.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Jul 31, 2016 @ 15:03:39
Even after all of these years away, when ever I travel back it always feels as if I am going home Erika.. I still class this village as home even now. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Erika Kind
Jul 31, 2016 @ 15:06:12
It is that feeling that connects. That feeling of being home. So wonderful!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Jul 31, 2016 @ 15:06:39
🙂 It is 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Erika Kind
Jul 31, 2016 @ 15:08:08
Ha, exactly!!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Lynz Real Cooking
Jul 31, 2016 @ 14:59:48
I love the picture of the old chapel and hearing about your childhood! Lovely post Sue xxx
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Jul 31, 2016 @ 15:04:00
Thank you dear Lynz 🙂 xxx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Lynz Real Cooking
Jul 31, 2016 @ 15:04:28
What a wonderful post! I love learning new things x
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Jul 31, 2016 @ 15:05:20
So pleased you enjoyed it Lynz..The wells were too good not to share.. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Lynz Real Cooking
Jul 31, 2016 @ 15:11:44
So cool Sue! xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Genie
Jul 31, 2016 @ 15:15:48
What a delightful and charming village that you were born and raised in, Angel.
I was disappointed to read that the Chapel is now a private residence, it still looks like a Chapel, so it is nice that the new residents have not changed its charm and the heritage has been preserved there due to that.
Thank you for taking us with you on your journey back to your hometown, dear one.
Love Genie ❤️ xoxoxo
LikeLiked by 3 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Jul 31, 2016 @ 15:24:57
And thank you for taking that journey with me Genie.. Its been a delight to have you travel with me.. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
David
Jul 31, 2016 @ 15:25:29
I’ve not been back to my roots for 40 years but now back in Devon it is a must journey waiting to happen. Many thanks for this beautiful reminder Sue. Love, David
LikeLiked by 3 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Jul 31, 2016 @ 16:06:19
Then David maybe reading this will prompt you to go back to your roots now you are on your Home turf once again.. Blessings Sue xxx
LikeLike
IreneDesign2011
Jul 31, 2016 @ 15:39:28
Very interesting and beautiful experiences, dear Sue 😀
Much love ❤
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Jul 31, 2016 @ 16:07:02
So pleased you enjoyed them dear Irene.. wishing you a continued beautiful day xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
IreneDesign2011
Jul 31, 2016 @ 16:22:18
Thank you Sue and wish you all the best ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
derrickjknight
Jul 31, 2016 @ 16:09:07
A lovely, informative, nostalgic, trip. Some good artwork. I’m not sure if you know that our house was once the Village Post Office and shop
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Jul 31, 2016 @ 16:12:47
No I didn’t know that Derrick, How delightful.. 🙂 The shop shown here was the second post office.. The real Old post office was run by two sisters many years ago when I was small.. Run from their front room cottage. It still has a plaque on the wall of the cottage.. The Old Post Office.. 🙂 ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
chicasl10
Jul 31, 2016 @ 16:17:26
its so true Sue
i have same kind of expercience at my native place
strange ppl walking around. Oh Yes every Sunday walk to church..how i remember that also.
Huggy
MJ
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Jul 31, 2016 @ 16:19:24
🙂 thank you MJ so lovely to have you.. And yes it was Every Sunday come rain Hail or snow.. 🙂 lol.
LikeLike
Writing to Freedom
Jul 31, 2016 @ 16:46:15
It’s so different in Europe where you have centuries, if not millennium of history. And I grew up in a very transient area (Washington DC) where there is a constant turnover due to the large number of people who work in government-related jobs.
And yet, I still feel at home when I go back and visit the area I grew up. I love that you have both your family and tribal histories to explore. Thanks for sharing the journey Sue.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Jul 31, 2016 @ 21:07:52
I think Brad Home is where the heart is.. and for me too my heart has always been in the Derbyshire Dales where I grew up.. So pleased to take you to my old village Brad and so pleased you enjoyed xx
LikeLike
Somali K Chakrabarti
Jul 31, 2016 @ 16:55:41
This is such a lovely and peaceful place with an old world charm Sue. The customs there seem to connect people and children with the environment. Loved the pictures too.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Jul 31, 2016 @ 21:00:23
Yes it was a lovely village to grow up in Somali and I am sure it still is.. So pleased you enjoyed your visit and this old custom xxx
LikeLiked by 1 person
jacquelineobyikocha
Jul 31, 2016 @ 17:09:17
Lovely post and those photos are gorgeous. I bet you enjoyed your visit 😊
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Jul 31, 2016 @ 20:54:46
Hi Jacqueline.. Yes I really enjoyed my visit, as I did yours .. Love to you and thank you xx
LikeLike
Heartafire
Jul 31, 2016 @ 17:47:57
This is one of your most beautiful and intriguing posts Sue. I am awed at the beauty of this lovely peaceful place. Thank you for sharing these photos (fabulous as well) with us and the history of your roots and home. I recall the maypole celebrations when I was little, it seems like these wonderful traditions are no longer celebrated here, perhaps in the smaller rural areas, I don’t know.
This is a gift on this lovely Sunday morning, I hope your trip was a lifetime memory dear Sue. Much love and hugs to you! ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Jul 31, 2016 @ 20:53:34
I am pleased it brought back also fond memories of your own childhood Maypole days Holly.. Thank you I so enjoyed my Day there again..Its been over a year since our last visit so I enjoyed our time there again xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Heartafire
Jul 31, 2016 @ 22:51:15
thank you Sue , this post is a joy!xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Jul 31, 2016 @ 22:52:39
And thank you for letting me know your joy also Holly xxx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Heartafire
Jul 31, 2016 @ 23:52:30
xxoo
LikeLike
smilecalm
Jul 31, 2016 @ 18:00:48
wonderful to better understand
how this village’s respect & honoring
of tradition & nature continues
on in your compassionate heart 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Jul 31, 2016 @ 21:09:21
Thank you kindly David.. I am pleased you enjoyed How Nature Heart is always at my centre.. xx
LikeLike
suzicate
Jul 31, 2016 @ 18:08:03
I’d never heard of Well Dressings, how interesting and oh so beautiful! Thank you for sharing. It is something to walk the streets you did as a child and see how much has changed and how much has stayed the same. For me, the perception of size is vastly different than when I was a child as everything seemed so large in my memory.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Jul 31, 2016 @ 21:11:48
Yes I agree with the size of things Suzi.. I remember the biscuit which we called A waggon wheel.. being to large almost to hold.. Today they are very small to my memory of them.. So pleased this was new to you and that you enjoyed the walk Suzi xxx Thank you
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thomas Davis
Jul 31, 2016 @ 18:32:36
A wonderful reminiscence. There is something timeless in this, touching on a past that is alive in the present. Well dressings? What a wonderful idea.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Visionkeeper
Jul 31, 2016 @ 18:38:57
Thanks for the walk along DW! It seems like a wonderful tradition to follow. Seems in these new times such things no longer hold meaning enough to create new traditions…Kind of sad. I’m glad the old ones still flourish. Glad you had a good time DW. Sometimes going back frees us to keep moving forward. Happy weekend my friend. Hugs to you…VK ❤
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Jul 31, 2016 @ 20:49:27
Thank you VK.. Yes it is sad so many traditions get lost and no longer practised.. I did enjoy our Day.. Happy WEEK to you as the weekend now almost gone.. Hugs xx DW
LikeLiked by 1 person
Paul Handover
Jul 31, 2016 @ 18:57:34
Just dipped into this and made a promise to read it slowly and fully before the day is out.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Jul 31, 2016 @ 20:47:03
Thank you Paul.. Hope you enjoyed xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Paul Handover
Aug 01, 2016 @ 13:38:20
You can imagine that as a Brit living in a very rural area of Oregon I am frequently asked how it compares to rural England. Your wonderful visit back to Stoney Middleton is the answer to the question!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 02, 2016 @ 12:26:20
🙂 thank you Paul 🙂 And I am sure I would enjoy Oregon’s beauty too 🙂
LikeLike
Tom Merriman
Jul 31, 2016 @ 19:08:29
What a lovely village, Sue. I have heard of Stoney Middleton from my Directory Enquiry days but never imagined how it would look. And the Well Dressing is a really nice custom to keep up. Happy memories.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Jul 31, 2016 @ 20:46:45
Thank you Tom.. Pleased you enjoyed your visit to Stoney x
LikeLiked by 1 person
Val Boyko
Jul 31, 2016 @ 22:03:13
Thank you for sharing memories lanes … and such intricate art work. The blue tit is so well done!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Jul 31, 2016 @ 22:25:54
Hi Val, yes the Blue-tits are beautifully done, Its one of the best wells I have seen in a long while.. So thank you for joining me Val.. Hope all is well with you? Sending Lots of Love and Healing Light my friend.. Hugs Sue xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Val Boyko
Jul 31, 2016 @ 22:40:31
Thank you Sue. Hugs to you! I hope you enjoyed those cauliflowers – they looked terrific 😃
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Jul 31, 2016 @ 22:41:49
Haha.. Yes they were delicious and so was the cabbage I had today along with kidney beans 🙂 xxx
LikeLiked by 1 person
The Coastal Crone
Jul 31, 2016 @ 22:06:32
As someone who grew up in dry South Texas I can appreciate well dressings even if we did not have wells like this. Water was to be appreciated. What wonderful memories for you! Your village is lovely!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Jul 31, 2016 @ 22:38:41
Thank you Jo and yes water is precious where ever we are.. Even England where we get so much.. 🙂 xxx
LikeLike
laplacesanstemps
Jul 31, 2016 @ 22:18:53
Thank you for sharing these beautiful places and memories! It’s always delightful to get back to our roots, times when we felt pure and as brave as fairy tale heroes.
I love the pictures and your story a lot.
Have a wonderful week!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Jul 31, 2016 @ 22:39:39
Thank you kindly, I am so pleased you enjoyed the journey with me.. Many thanks.. Sue ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
litebeing
Jul 31, 2016 @ 22:34:25
Sue, I just adored this post and enjoyed getting a peek into your childhood home. I relished learning about well dressings and love all the gorgeous photos.
with much affection,
Linda
LikeLiked by 3 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Jul 31, 2016 @ 22:40:57
Happy exploring the Links Dear Linda.. Glad to have you with me.. Enjoy and do not work too hard during the week my friend.. Sending LOVE ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
inavukic
Jul 31, 2016 @ 22:41:50
What a wonderful story of childhood and customs, Sue. I trust today’s Methodist inhabitants have a place for community gatherings etc since that Chapel has gone. The destiny of traditions around faith has indeed changed almost everywhere, disappeared a lot. In Croatia various villages and towns have been on a mission to revive old customs which is very nice. I love the idea of Well Dressing and the spiritual energy behind it. When I was a child in Croatia in my village children went on a “hunt” for different flowers and ornamental greens to decorate the walls and door to St Anthony’s chapel in June for the Fest Day – what wonderful adventures competing who will find the nicest blooms for his church and statue. This doesn’t happen any more although there are adults charged with bringing flowers for the altar. Enjoyed the post.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Jul 31, 2016 @ 22:50:07
Sadly Ina there is no replacement.. and the Parish Church is open only I think once every 2 Sundays in a month as the Vicar has two Parishes to attend.. Times change ..
And it is sad the children can no longer hunt and bring flowers.. for the festival.. As children we played a huge part in the community.. We helped local farmers Haymaking.. though today with the heavy machines it would not be allowed for safety reasons.. Back then a group of children would pull together the small bales of hay lifting them into piles around the field to be collected by the tractor..
Today Children do not Play outside.. Too many hours like me today on the computer screen LOL..
Thank you Ina.. I will catch up mid week with you as I have my granddaughter tomorrow Play time! 🙂 haha.. Take care my good friend xxx Love Sue
LikeLike
inavukic
Jul 31, 2016 @ 22:55:50
Yes the children of today get to collect flowers or pull hay build stacks on an iPad or iPhone App 🙂 It is sad to us but hopefully not for them Enjoy your granddaughter Sue – nothing else compares I imagine 🙂
LikeLike
lorriebowden
Jul 31, 2016 @ 23:08:28
This is just an amazing post, Sue! Thanks for the stroll through your past and for sharing such incredibly beautiful art!! It is funny as I just started a mosaic today…and the well dressings really are mosaics made out of such incredible organic material. I enjoyed this a lot! Sending beautiful thoughts ❤
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 04, 2016 @ 16:40:39
Dearest Lorrie,
Thank you my friend.. I am delighted this post held such interest and its lovely that you are also making a Mosaic We get so absorbed within our creativity and I was so pleased you were able to stroll through my old village Lorrie xx Hugs and love Sue xx ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Renee Espriu
Jul 31, 2016 @ 23:09:24
Beautiful photos Sue and so wonderful that not too awfully much has changed. When I go back home it is not very much as it was. The population of people is so different you might wonder if you were not in another country altogether. When my dad is no longer here (he is still going strong) and my sister sells the home I was raised in it will be as though my memories will be nearly swallowed up. Thank goodness I still have them in my heart. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 02, 2016 @ 13:41:44
So good to know your Dad is still well and going strong dear Renee.. and yes when my Dad passed, his home was only rented.. but he had lived their since I was 5 until his passing.. When strangers tore up the garden it was sad seeing the changes .. But all things move on. And yes our memories will always be within our hearts Renee.. No one takes them.. xxx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Mark Lanesbury
Jul 31, 2016 @ 23:28:35
Incredible Sue. That is an amazing history from where you grew up.
And among it is a heartfelt depth because of what you shared in those times.
Even the history is laced with so much, all seemingly a part of all else.
A rich blanket of events, all making it a very interesting story indeed.
And for you, a much deeper ‘touch’ so that you can ‘see’ your journey.
Thank you for sharing Sue, I enjoyed it very much 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 02, 2016 @ 13:38:08
Thank you Mark.. I am delighted you enjoyed the tradition of the Dressing the Wells.. Yes it was nostalgic to take a trip down memory lane back to my roots.. lovely to retrace my steps and catch up with relatives both living and within Spirit 🙂 So pleased you enjoyed x
LikeLiked by 1 person
Maniparna Sengupta Majumder
Jul 31, 2016 @ 23:45:38
Going back to places where we spent our childhood always brings up so many memories. It’s a bittersweet feeling to recall those days. You must have a great time there, Sue.
And, loads of thanks for sharing the custom of well dressing. It’s a beautiful way to show our gratitude to the natural sources of water…the one dating back to ancient times of 1600 BC…sounds just great! The pictures are gorgeous… 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 02, 2016 @ 13:33:13
I am so pleased you enjoyed your visit to the wells Maniparna.. It is always so nice to return back there for a visit and none nicer time than Well Dressing Week xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Dalo 2013
Aug 01, 2016 @ 00:54:10
Your description of returning to your childhood town was precious ~ for you to see things from a different (current) perspective and to be able to reflect on you today versus you back when you had little idea of where life would take you. A fascinating post, and I am sure a fascinating trip to see all where you came from and arrive at where you are now.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 02, 2016 @ 11:53:48
It is always nice to go back there Randall and visit relatives.. Sadly they are getting less and less now.. It was nice to retrace my childhood steps.. I was a bit of a Tomboy as a child, never in.. Always out in the fields, tagging along with my Farming School friends wanting to ride on their horses 🙂 And I spent many an hour haymaking. In those days Farming was not so automated as it is today and the bales were small and oblong which a group of us children would drag around the field into piles for it to be loaded on the trailers.. 🙂 Happy Days.. And thank you so much for reading 🙂
LikeLike
Dalo 2013
Aug 02, 2016 @ 18:30:00
Sounds like a perfect environment for growing up and understanding life from the ground up ~ Gotta love the farm life 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 02, 2016 @ 18:41:20
Thank you .. Yes our family were not well off.. Our meat on the table would often be rabbit caught by my Dad.. We knew never to ask for things we knew we couldn’t have . But would find lots to do outdoors 🙂
LikeLike
vanbytheriver
Aug 01, 2016 @ 01:14:12
Just beautiful, Sue. And…going home ? Nothing better. 💘
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 02, 2016 @ 11:55:21
Agreed.. 🙂 Nothing better 🙂 ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
Trini Lind
Aug 01, 2016 @ 02:00:21
How very interesting this was to read! 😊💖. Loved it! And your village is beautiful! So English! 😊😊💖
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 02, 2016 @ 12:10:41
Hi Trini, so lovely that you took a stroll with me.. Thank you I am delighted you enjoyed this tradition of our Well-Dressings xxx
LikeLike
Trini Lind
Aug 02, 2016 @ 16:02:47
Yes, I loved the stroll! 💖💖
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 02, 2016 @ 16:25:26
Thank you.. ❤ I enjoyed your company xx
LikeLike
Trini Lind
Aug 02, 2016 @ 17:01:55
And I yours 😊😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 02, 2016 @ 17:18:07
❤
LikeLike
New Bloggy Cat
Aug 01, 2016 @ 08:14:18
Hi Sue, thanks for taking us down memory lane. The well dressing photos are so beautiful. When I was young, I went to the Sunday school in a Methodist Church too. Love & blessings, Pat (。♥‿♥。)
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 02, 2016 @ 12:14:07
Yes We went every week come hail or shine.. and had to attend the afternoon service and if a special occasion went to the evening one too 🙂 I remember my Sunday School teachers fondly.. 🙂 Love and Hugs back Pat.
LikeLiked by 1 person
New Bloggy Cat
Aug 02, 2016 @ 14:34:04
(*’∀’人)♥
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 02, 2016 @ 14:39:22
🙂 XXX
LikeLiked by 1 person
sara
Aug 01, 2016 @ 12:05:14
Beautiful trip to your home town Sue. The well dressings are beautiful, I’ve never heard of them before.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 02, 2016 @ 13:43:41
Sara thank you for your visit, I am so pleased you enjoyed your time within my old village ❤
LikeLike
Itching for Hitching
Aug 01, 2016 @ 12:40:24
Thanks for sharing. What a priceless tradition.
LikeLike
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 02, 2016 @ 13:18:27
And thank you for taking the time to read and to comment.. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
prenin
Aug 01, 2016 @ 15:15:16
Another part of England I knew nothing about! 🙂
The well dressings are beautiful and well made – an art form of their own! 🙂
Thanks for this glance into your childhood! 🙂
Love and hugs!
Prenin.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 02, 2016 @ 12:27:40
So pleased dear Prenin you were able to travel a little and explore and enjoyed.. Big Hugs returned x
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hannah (BitterSweet)
Aug 01, 2016 @ 16:19:10
What a truly beautiful and inspiring place to have grown up in! Thank you for sharing this treasure, and your memories that go along with it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 02, 2016 @ 12:29:07
And thank you Hannah for taking the time to walk with me.. So happy you enjoyed my friend x ❤
LikeLike
writersdream9
Aug 01, 2016 @ 16:26:42
A very beautiful and quaint village. One that I would love to visit! Thank you for sharing!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 02, 2016 @ 12:42:52
You would Love it Carol. The next best thing though is travelling via the click of our fingers to the various parts of the world.. I do love this technology for that 🙂 ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
writersdream9
Aug 02, 2016 @ 14:35:48
So do I! ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
charliezero1.wordpress.com
Aug 01, 2016 @ 18:41:10
Inspiring and this journey of yours brings my heart and soul in a happy place.
Thank you Sue for sharing such great memories and pleasure reading this.
🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 02, 2016 @ 12:58:59
Charlie, thank you I am delighted you were able to visit the Wells with me.. Thank you 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
charliezero1.wordpress.com
Aug 02, 2016 @ 16:24:13
You are truly welcome. You story is inspiring to me and holds a great deal in my heart. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 02, 2016 @ 16:26:45
Thank you Charlie.. 🙂
LikeLike
stephensmustang1
Aug 02, 2016 @ 04:58:03
This is one of my favorite posts ever from you. Loved this–felt like I was there with you…
I had no idea what a well dressing was..so very awesome.
Thank you for sharing your journey with us. Hugs.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 02, 2016 @ 13:08:44
And I am so thrilled Elizabeth that you took that journey with me back to the place I grew up in.. xxx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hariod Brawn
Aug 02, 2016 @ 16:23:56
Such a delightful reminiscence, dear Sue, and I must say I was reminded of the little village primary school I attended, which looks so similar to yours. Stoney Middleton feels like such a special place, from what you say here, albeit sitting so peacefully upon the fiery underworld below! H ❤
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 02, 2016 @ 16:29:26
Haha… 🙂 yes many places sit upon such thermal springs.. 🙂 And I appreciate your presence .. At one time the school was in danger of being closed.. But thankfully protests and petitions were successful 🙂 ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
belasbrightideas
Aug 02, 2016 @ 23:32:03
Wow, how cool – the well dressing, that is! As are your shared memories. It is so strange to go back to where we were as children, or at least I’ve found it so. I remember going to Death Valley, seeing Scotty’s Castle, which when I was small, looked massive. I kept wondering if they had replaced the fountain, removed structures, etc. Everything seemed so small! ❤
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 03, 2016 @ 14:15:40
Yes so many memories when we were children seem to in our todays world have shrunk… 🙂 I am the same.. And I am happy you enjoyed the Wells.. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
dgkaye
Aug 03, 2016 @ 01:52:20
Thanks for sharing a piece of your past with us Sue. It’s always nice to revisit the past when it held such warm memories, yet sad when we find so much has changed. Thanks for sharing the process of Well Dressing. What a fascinating art to work with petals. 🙂 xo Hugs to you.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 03, 2016 @ 14:29:23
Thank you Debby, yes It is fascinating and an artform not many are skilled at doing.. We go back regular intervals to visit relatives, and it is sad to see how the village has altered in the age of the town supermarkets and cars which have taken the heart out of village life.. ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
dgkaye
Aug 03, 2016 @ 17:45:35
I know that feeling of going back to a cherished place and finding it’s changed. I find it disheartening. The world whizzes by in a flurry doesn’t it? xoxo 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 03, 2016 @ 21:09:03
Yes far too fast these days Debby.. We must make the most of our Every Now Moments.. for in a blink they are but memories ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
dgkaye
Aug 03, 2016 @ 22:29:08
So let’s make them good ones. ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
aussieian2011
Aug 03, 2016 @ 09:12:26
A fantastic captivating story Sue, excellent tour of your childhood village, it really depicts what my mind visualises an English village to be, great introduction for me on Well Dressing and to top your post off was a visit to the macabre world and history of The Moon Inn
Thoroughly enjoyable.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 03, 2016 @ 15:13:41
So pleased Ian you explored the links and enjoyed the ghostly murderous tale too.. 🙂 And it was nice you enjoyed the wells and my childhood village. 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
lindamartha
Aug 03, 2016 @ 14:02:43
What beautiful memories and amazing art. I find myself completely fascinated with the tradition itself. You tell lovely stories Sue. In the states, its hard to find traditions that are so close to the earth religions-Native Americans of course have alot of that but its not part of the local non Native heritage at all.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 04, 2016 @ 16:43:28
Thank you Dear Linda.. I am delighted you were able to take a walk across the other side of the Ocean to my kind of world.. And I thank you for your lovely comment upon my story telling..
🙂 Its lovely to have you hear again..
And sending lots of Love, Healing, and Energy over the airwaves Linda..
Hugs Sue xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sam Red
Aug 03, 2016 @ 20:16:47
Rich and fascinating traditions, which are so inspiring and uplifting to hear about 🙂 Thanks Sue 🙂 Blessings 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 03, 2016 @ 20:56:43
And thank you Sam for taking the time to read and travel with me x
LikeLiked by 1 person
Michael
Aug 04, 2016 @ 00:22:49
Lovely, Sue! I particularly loved the artwork made from the flower petals– very great!– and the stories about the springs and how they were a central part of people’s relationship to the land. Those are some pretty warm springs aren’t they?! Is there volcanic activity or a lot of geothermal in that area? Thank you for the beautiful share.
Peace
Michael
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 04, 2016 @ 16:25:10
Not to my Knowledge ( about the volcanic or seismic activities ) .. The region is set upon lime stone. There are many underground caves around the village and its a well known place for Rock climbing and Caving. These Springs I am sure travel from way down deep.. Which makes us think further about what lies beneath our feet and in the ocean, Yet we explore so much of outer-space.
I am happy you enjoyed reading and thank you Michael for your lovely company 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
europasicewolf
Aug 05, 2016 @ 12:31:55
HooooooOOOOOOOOOwwwwwwwwwWwwwwwwwwLllllllooooooooo Sue🤗Loved this post and your memories and the artwork☘Fascinating area you lived in and the well dressing tradition is lovely 🎨⚘🌻xx
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 10, 2016 @ 13:54:08
I thought you may well appreciate it Wolfie.. 🙂 So pleased you enjoyed it, and I always love your hoooowwwwwlsss my friend xxx 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
paintdigi
Aug 08, 2016 @ 18:16:20
Good posts, nice blog … Bravo
Welcome to see my creations:
http://paintdigi.wordpress.com
LikeLike
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 11, 2016 @ 16:25:22
Thank you for your visit Paintdigi.. and thank you for you link.
LikeLiked by 1 person
kameamoonmaiden
Aug 09, 2016 @ 19:58:24
Beautiful memories and post, these photographs are stunning!
Just now found you in this realm and you have been here all along, so much longer than me! Beautiful blog, well done!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 10, 2016 @ 14:24:43
Thank you Kamea… I am delighted you enjoyed, and thank you for your follow.. I will delight in exploring also more of your own blog.. Please bare with me on this, as I have many reply to as yet.. 🙂 Bright Blessings your way 🙂 Sue
LikeLiked by 1 person
kameamoonmaiden
Aug 10, 2016 @ 17:30:58
Bright Rainbow Blessings to you, sweet Sue. I completely understand, for I follow over a hundred people. And I thought you were only at WP.org, just figured it out after looking at Maria’s beautiful feather art!
So I am feeling particularly slow. But I have been writing a lot! Haven’t figured out to insert more than one photo at a time yet, and I need a better camera.
Taos, New Mexico is a place I would love to photo blog about. Great links you included as well!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 11, 2016 @ 13:26:04
Thank you for your lovely reply Kamea I know, keeping up with everyone and their posts is often a full time job in itself.. ( I follow over 400) it can get a bit crazy .. I have 3 sites.. 2 on WordPress and One on Blogger.. the blogger one hasn’t been updated in ages..
If you go to your media panel on WP.. and click on one photo look to the left top of your screen and you will see create a gallery.. click that.. you then can click more you wish to add all at once.. When you have your selection click add gallery on the bottom right. you will then see a drop down menu of how you want the pictures to appear.. Either a slide show, circles, squares and so on.. then add to to your post.. Hope this helps.. xx Thank you for taking the time to follow the links on my post.. so pleased you enjoyed
Sue ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
kameamoonmaiden
Aug 11, 2016 @ 17:11:18
Wow, thank you so much! I’m going to write this tip down right now.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 11, 2016 @ 17:39:10
Hope you manage to sort it all out…You will.. If I can do it anyone can xxx
LikeLiked by 1 person
kameamoonmaiden
Aug 11, 2016 @ 18:42:19
Right on!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 11, 2016 @ 18:58:51
😀
LikeLike
Ka Malana - Fiestaestrellas.com
Aug 12, 2016 @ 19:21:17
Hi Sue,
I plan on coming back when I can spend some quality time here again. I wanted to quick mention that the first picture I clicked on did not enlarge. It’s no problem because I think I can see it anyways. I’m still trying to figure out the whole thing, myself. I just wanted to mention that as sometimes you want us to look closer at little special details. 😉
Big HUGS, see you again real soon,
Ka
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 12, 2016 @ 19:23:02
Yes I found it didn’t.. I think its WP.. when I uploaded from my blog writer it is fine.. I need to upgrade that to my new PC… not done it yet.. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ka Malana - Fiestaestrellas.com
Aug 12, 2016 @ 20:22:17
I’m back! I’ll have to return once again to see those links!
“We would practice long hours at Stoney Middleton Primary School so as we would not get our ribbons all twisted wrongly as we made our webs and patterns with the ribbons around the Maypole as the boys and girls skipped around.”
so vivid! & practical… 🙂
Yes, we used to do Maypole in gym class, since elementary school. Fondest of memories. Now I want to come visit England again. It’s been awhile. I could feel the cool air coming from the well! Lovely photos.
Really enjoyed my time here! Thank you xoxo
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 13, 2016 @ 15:27:54
So pleased you enjoyed Ka and happy to know you too used to practice Maypole dancing.. That and country dancing 🙂 There will be more coming up shortly I hope from the area I once grew up in 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ka Malana - Fiestaestrellas.com
Aug 13, 2016 @ 15:32:21
🙂
LikeLike
Maria F.
Aug 13, 2016 @ 03:26:55
These are so pretty Sue, thanks for sharing!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 13, 2016 @ 15:18:04
I thought you may appreciate them Maria being as they are made entirely of flowers 🙂
LikeLike
mukhamani
Aug 14, 2016 @ 12:48:27
Precious memories, it was good to go along with you, thank you:)
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Aug 14, 2016 @ 16:18:08
Thank you kindly 🙂 I am happy you enjoyed visiting and seeing this tradition 🙂 Many thanks also for following Dreamwalker’s 🙂
LikeLike
laurabruno
May 01, 2017 @ 11:50:31
What a magical custom! Thank you for sharing your Beltane memories in this and other posts. From Stone Middleton to Robinhood territory… You are so fortunate to live in that Land so steeped in tradition, with awareness of old ceremonies and customs delightfully woven into village life. Much love and Happy Beltane! Laura
LikeLike
Sue Dreamwalker
May 03, 2017 @ 14:49:34
Yes you are right Laura, very fortunate indeed my friend… And my delight was doubled seeing this lovely comment.. xxx ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
laurabruno
May 03, 2017 @ 15:25:08
❤ xxx
LikeLiked by 1 person
laurabruno
May 01, 2017 @ 12:05:21
Reblogged this on Laura Bruno's Blog and commented:
Happy Beltane! I just had to share this lovely (and educational) post by Sue Dreamwalker, who grew up dancing the Maypole in a town that makes these delightful Well Dressings from flowers and clay. I grew up celebrating May Day without knowing why. I would gather violets– real or silk versions- dress them with green things in little green plastic strawberry baskets and sneak out to leave them on neighbors’ porches in the early morning hours of May 1st. I had no idea why, but I took this task very seriously. Decades later, I discovered Beltane, and some recent DNA testing confirms that all of this is quite literally “in my blood.”
In any case, I wish everyone a Happy Beltane (Happy Samhain down under), and I hope you enjoy Sue’s magical post as much as I did.
Blessed Be!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sue Dreamwalker
May 03, 2017 @ 14:51:43
What a fabulous thing you did Laura sneaking out to leave posies of presents on doorsteps.. Such a fabulous thing to do.. And So happy you find its deep within your blood line my friend.. 🙂 I hope you too had a Happy Beltane ,, Love and Hugs my friend xxx ❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
contramimi
May 01, 2017 @ 15:48:34
Reblogged this on Illuminations Now!!.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
May 03, 2017 @ 14:58:41
Many thanks for your reblog.. Blessings Sue
LikeLike
thespiritkeeper
Jun 26, 2017 @ 00:50:04
Wow when you see those well dressings up close man the work that has gone into them is amazing.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Jun 26, 2017 @ 08:09:50
Yes, they are pretty amazing Joseph, and I thought you might appreciate seeing them closer as I know you too are a fellow gardener who appreciates Nature’s Gifts.. 🙂 Thank you for taking the time to look and leave me your kind comments Joseph.. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
thespiritkeeper
Jun 26, 2017 @ 17:45:44
You’re welcome. Truly fascinating. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Sue Dreamwalker
Jun 27, 2017 @ 11:09:44
🙂 thank you so much 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person