Saturday 22 May, Stody Lodge opened their gardens to the LGBTQ+ community, as well as friends and family. A variety of refreshments including a large selection of rainbow themed cakes were available with all proceeds going to support Norwich Pride and King’s Lynn and West Norfolk Pride.
On the day unfortunately the weather seemed to dominate and kept the crowds away, such a shame when so many other Pride events have already been cancelled this year, however some of us Oasis ladies were determined to enjoy the afternoon, Emma Jane, Lauren, Serena, Lorraine, Jodie, Penny the pup and myself Theresa met at the entrance soon after opening time.
Before walking and exploring, time for hot drinks and rainbow cake, very welcome on a chilly day.
Once refreshed we headed off to the Azalea Water Gardens via Rhododendron Drive, bit of a trek but was worth it. Interesting winding waterways were lined with colourful azaleas and a lovely scent in the air, care had to be taken not to slip on the boggy ground and end up in the dark uninviting water, good job we all left our heels at home.
On the way back to the main gardens we just had to stop and pose in front of a lovely pink rhododendron display, not all of them were in flower but this one was stunning. After walking some more around the gardens we stopped for more refreshments, still lots of cake for sale, I’m sure they did cater for a larger number of people, on the plus side there was no problem social distancing. The sky seemed to be getting darker but spirits were high especially Emma Jane who was just so determined and happy to wear her new summer dress regardless.
Next we walked over to the main lawn where various entertainment was being performed, we joined just in time to listen to Pippa Blaylock sharing her transition journey which certainly kept the audience captive, music followed but the small crowd vanished, no dancing in the rain today.
It was so pleasant just to sit together at the edge of the lawn taking in the lovely views in the presence of lovely company, something we’ve taken for granted in previous years, so glad to be out in more ways than one.
The rain held off for most of the day but eventually our luck ran out so brollies out and time for home.
Next month we hope to arrange another garden visit somewhere in Norfolk/Suffolk, would be great to see many more of you join us in a lovely day out.
See you all soon
Theresa x
oasis norfolk 