Inspiration
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English Style
If you’re anything like me, you buy a lot more books than you have time to read. My shelves are groaning. My bedside table is laden with books that could...
English Style
If you’re anything like me, you buy a lot more books than you have time to read. My shelves are groaning. My bedside table is laden with books that could...
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Tangerine dream
It’s Monday, I’m back in London, and I’m in a bit of a daze. Not just the effects of a weekend of expatriat-scale-cocktail-drinking after six weeks of Lenten abstinence. There’s...
Tangerine dream
It’s Monday, I’m back in London, and I’m in a bit of a daze. Not just the effects of a weekend of expatriat-scale-cocktail-drinking after six weeks of Lenten abstinence. There’s...
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Dreaming of Heat…
There is honestly nothing, nothing, in the world that I love more than that moment – which I think happened this weekend, down here in Dorset, when there’s a tipping point headlong...
Dreaming of Heat…
There is honestly nothing, nothing, in the world that I love more than that moment – which I think happened this weekend, down here in Dorset, when there’s a tipping point headlong...
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Rain doesn’t stop play
I arrived in Dorset on Friday afternoon to find the house and garden bathed in remarkable sunshine. It felt like a midsummer evening. Will and Maggie were driving down for...
Rain doesn’t stop play
I arrived in Dorset on Friday afternoon to find the house and garden bathed in remarkable sunshine. It felt like a midsummer evening. Will and Maggie were driving down for...
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In praise of… Habitat in the early 70s
It’s nine o’ clock and I can’t believe where the evening has gone. Well, that’s what happens when the clocks change. But it’s also what happens when you’ve had a...
In praise of… Habitat in the early 70s
It’s nine o’ clock and I can’t believe where the evening has gone. Well, that’s what happens when the clocks change. But it’s also what happens when you’ve had a...
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Never go back…
…was the wise advice Will gave me a couple of weeks ago. So true. I’d been asked by the Soane Museum to give a talk, last Monday evening. “What’s it...
Never go back…
…was the wise advice Will gave me a couple of weeks ago. So true. I’d been asked by the Soane Museum to give a talk, last Monday evening. “What’s it...
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Back to Normal
It’s been a bit of a secret of mine, really, but since last summer, around about the time I came back from Italy, the garden has been completely out of...
Back to Normal
It’s been a bit of a secret of mine, really, but since last summer, around about the time I came back from Italy, the garden has been completely out of...
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Morning at Franklin Farm
If I ever get around to writing another book, one of the reasons will be to publish photographs of my friends Kim and Pip’s farmhouse in Hampshire. I was staying...
Morning at Franklin Farm
If I ever get around to writing another book, one of the reasons will be to publish photographs of my friends Kim and Pip’s farmhouse in Hampshire. I was staying...
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Hockney Spring
You’d have felt a bit sad to be an old gold-framed Old Master hanging at the Dulwich Picture Gallery this weekend. The people were queuing to see Hockney. I’m afraid...
Hockney Spring
You’d have felt a bit sad to be an old gold-framed Old Master hanging at the Dulwich Picture Gallery this weekend. The people were queuing to see Hockney. I’m afraid...
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Close to Heaven
It’s been a weekend of houses and wide landscapes. I’ve been up on the coast again, in Norfolk. It was a dreamy, bright day on Friday, driving up to Norfolk...
Close to Heaven
It’s been a weekend of houses and wide landscapes. I’ve been up on the coast again, in Norfolk. It was a dreamy, bright day on Friday, driving up to Norfolk...
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Days Lengthening
Well, who knew we’re an eighth of the way through the year already? At this rate it will be time to plan your Christmas holidays. Just when you thought we...
Days Lengthening
Well, who knew we’re an eighth of the way through the year already? At this rate it will be time to plan your Christmas holidays. Just when you thought we...
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Cyclical worlds
It’s been back to reality with a vengeance. The noise of Mexico City and the peace of Tulum seem an age away: hard to believe I’ve only been back a...
Cyclical worlds
It’s been back to reality with a vengeance. The noise of Mexico City and the peace of Tulum seem an age away: hard to believe I’ve only been back a...
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It’s strange to be back…
….and to welcome you to gloomy old London and a bright new home for the blog! I hope you all find your way around. As you will recall, we had...
It’s strange to be back…
….and to welcome you to gloomy old London and a bright new home for the blog! I hope you all find your way around. As you will recall, we had...
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Gloom rising
For those that like to read the blog early on a Monday with their morning tea, in bed, please blame my friends David and Chris for throwing their annual Christmas...
Gloom rising
For those that like to read the blog early on a Monday with their morning tea, in bed, please blame my friends David and Chris for throwing their annual Christmas...
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There’s a reason why…
..... why What? Before I tell you what I really want to write about today, here's some gratuitously beautiful photos of a walk on Hampstead Heath this morning, with my...
There’s a reason why…
..... why What? Before I tell you what I really want to write about today, here's some gratuitously beautiful photos of a walk on Hampstead Heath this morning, with my...
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Days from Heaven
"I just love this time of year". It's an expression I've heard time and time again recently. I suspect there is something of the autumn in all of us; that...
Days from Heaven
"I just love this time of year". It's an expression I've heard time and time again recently. I suspect there is something of the autumn in all of us; that...
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Contrasts
I think the blog is divided between people who like weekends in London and weekends in the country. Which are you? I love both. Part of me would have loved...
Contrasts
I think the blog is divided between people who like weekends in London and weekends in the country. Which are you? I love both. Part of me would have loved...
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It’s about the time of year…
When I realise just how much I love living in London. If you've been reading the blog for a while, you might remember one or two little odes to the...
It’s about the time of year…
When I realise just how much I love living in London. If you've been reading the blog for a while, you might remember one or two little odes to the...
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Recharge
I love quiet dark Sunday evenings in the winter. And it's amazing how dark it suddenly was in Dorset this afternoon. A storm is blowing in, and as I write...
Recharge
I love quiet dark Sunday evenings in the winter. And it's amazing how dark it suddenly was in Dorset this afternoon. A storm is blowing in, and as I write...
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Winter evenings in a new coat
I'm a creature of habit, and I also love the regular things of life when they happen. I think you know this. That moment of turning the clocks back is...
Winter evenings in a new coat
I'm a creature of habit, and I also love the regular things of life when they happen. I think you know this. That moment of turning the clocks back is...
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Dear Ben, please may we see…
What's been happening up at your flat in London? Is a question that - if you happen to follow the comments section of the blog - comes up from time...
Dear Ben, please may we see…
What's been happening up at your flat in London? Is a question that - if you happen to follow the comments section of the blog - comes up from time...
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Really New Beginnings
I've been hinting, from time to time, about some exciting developments in the shop. And they've all happened this week. For ages and ages, Bridie and I have been talking...
Really New Beginnings
I've been hinting, from time to time, about some exciting developments in the shop. And they've all happened this week. For ages and ages, Bridie and I have been talking...
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New beginnings
I love this time of year. I've probably written it already in the last couple of weeks; The post New beginnings appeared first on Ben Pentreath Inspiration.
New beginnings
I love this time of year. I've probably written it already in the last couple of weeks; The post New beginnings appeared first on Ben Pentreath Inspiration.
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I’ve missed you
...It's been a long time, as some loyal readers of the blog have taken to commenting on (which, I would say, is a fair comment), since I was in Dorset....
I’ve missed you
...It's been a long time, as some loyal readers of the blog have taken to commenting on (which, I would say, is a fair comment), since I was in Dorset....
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Roman Mornings
I have a feeling that one of two readers would like to see what's up in Dorset (judging from the comments section). And I must admit, so would I. From...
Roman Mornings
I have a feeling that one of two readers would like to see what's up in Dorset (judging from the comments section). And I must admit, so would I. From...
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The floor polisher of the Pantheon
You won't find me getting up early for the Sales. I slightly look down on (can I admit it?) that peculiarly British habit of getting up very very early to...
The floor polisher of the Pantheon
You won't find me getting up early for the Sales. I slightly look down on (can I admit it?) that peculiarly British habit of getting up very very early to...
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La Citta Ideale
It's strange how time flies on holiday. I'm lying in my hotel bedroom in Rome, in the middle of a massive thunderstorm (during which I could not of course resist...
La Citta Ideale
It's strange how time flies on holiday. I'm lying in my hotel bedroom in Rome, in the middle of a massive thunderstorm (during which I could not of course resist...
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Thank you…
To everyone who has very kindly entered my international conspiracy For Valentina's birthday and placed an order from Many Kitchens... it's worked! I am so grateful... Birthday going well... Here,...
Thank you…
To everyone who has very kindly entered my international conspiracy For Valentina's birthday and placed an order from Many Kitchens... it's worked! I am so grateful... Birthday going well... Here,...
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The best things in life don’t change…
I realise that it's a year ago to the day (18th August) that I wrote a little blog about the Siena Palio that... how can I put it?... set the...
The best things in life don’t change…
I realise that it's a year ago to the day (18th August) that I wrote a little blog about the Siena Palio that... how can I put it?... set the...
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Oh dear oh dear oh dear…
Just when I'd said my farewells... Answered all emails. Check. Booked taxi for early morning departure: check. Said goodbye to everyone... check. Found out which day my niece's A-level exam...
Oh dear oh dear oh dear…
Just when I'd said my farewells... Answered all emails. Check. Booked taxi for early morning departure: check. Said goodbye to everyone... check. Found out which day my niece's A-level exam...
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Year Turning
I'm writing on Sunday evening, at the Old Parsonage. It's completely still and quiet. Perhaps the stillness is exemplified by the departure, earlier, of my friends Tom & Masie and...
Year Turning
I'm writing on Sunday evening, at the Old Parsonage. It's completely still and quiet. Perhaps the stillness is exemplified by the departure, earlier, of my friends Tom & Masie and...
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North Norfolk Coastal
I left London on beautiful, baking hot Thursday morning. I was making my way to the coast - to Cley-next-the-Sea, where we've been asked to help on a fine small...
North Norfolk Coastal
I left London on beautiful, baking hot Thursday morning. I was making my way to the coast - to Cley-next-the-Sea, where we've been asked to help on a fine small...
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In a perfect world…
It was a serene Friday morning when Lucy and I left London, early, to drive down to our decoration project near Devizes. We're working on a dreamy old stone manor...
In a perfect world…
It was a serene Friday morning when Lucy and I left London, early, to drive down to our decoration project near Devizes. We're working on a dreamy old stone manor...
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The real way of doing things
"That's a nice website you've got there, Ben", said Jim when we spoke this morning to talk about bricks. "Did you really take all those photos? Is that your garden?...
The real way of doing things
"That's a nice website you've got there, Ben", said Jim when we spoke this morning to talk about bricks. "Did you really take all those photos? Is that your garden?...
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High Summer morning
I've got some interesting things to be writing about this week, but tonight, I'm very sleepy and I've got what you might call an early start in the morning. I'm...
High Summer morning
I've got some interesting things to be writing about this week, but tonight, I'm very sleepy and I've got what you might call an early start in the morning. I'm...
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In the beginning and at the end
Summer arrives: full-blown, blowsy, full of heat. The year tips imperceptibly... just beyond its half way point... and suddenly—as if by magic—the countryside is filled with the sounds and smells...
In the beginning and at the end
Summer arrives: full-blown, blowsy, full of heat. The year tips imperceptibly... just beyond its half way point... and suddenly—as if by magic—the countryside is filled with the sounds and smells...
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On the Isle of Portland
What do you do in Dorset if it's midsummer and blowing a gale? (yes, yes, enough about the weather). Mum and Dad were staying this weekend. A huge wind was...
On the Isle of Portland
What do you do in Dorset if it's midsummer and blowing a gale? (yes, yes, enough about the weather). Mum and Dad were staying this weekend. A huge wind was...
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Ugly Buildings
This is probably going to turn out to be the longest professional suicide note in history. I really should be writing about how good the irises are this year. The...
Ugly Buildings
This is probably going to turn out to be the longest professional suicide note in history. I really should be writing about how good the irises are this year. The...
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On various ways of catching up
I've had the quietest weekend you can imagine. Valentina called from New York yesterday, for a catch up; and other than that phone call (p.s, Val's mum, just in case...
On various ways of catching up
I've had the quietest weekend you can imagine. Valentina called from New York yesterday, for a catch up; and other than that phone call (p.s, Val's mum, just in case...
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Why I love Dorset
I went for a spin this afternoon - in my Morris Minor, which, to be honest, has been a little under the weather for months. My friend and neighbour Mike...
Why I love Dorset
I went for a spin this afternoon - in my Morris Minor, which, to be honest, has been a little under the weather for months. My friend and neighbour Mike...
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Through the Woods
One of my favourite books, that I find myself returning to from time to time, is H. E. Bates's Through the Woods. Years ago, I used to spend a lot...
Through the Woods
One of my favourite books, that I find myself returning to from time to time, is H. E. Bates's Through the Woods. Years ago, I used to spend a lot...
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Normal Service Resuming
We are pleased to announce that normal service has resumed. No more politics, no more sadness. It was a beautiful early Summer weekend in Dorset and the blog contains nothing...
Normal Service Resuming
We are pleased to announce that normal service has resumed. No more politics, no more sadness. It was a beautiful early Summer weekend in Dorset and the blog contains nothing...
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Dormant Spring
...On the other hand (for those who've just read my last post), one of the things I like most about this blog, for me, is that it weirdly now acts...
Dormant Spring
...On the other hand (for those who've just read my last post), one of the things I like most about this blog, for me, is that it weirdly now acts...
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Family Album
One of the nicest things about settling down with my family last week was that Mum & Dad brought along a bunch of old photo albums. They make one realise...
Family Album
One of the nicest things about settling down with my family last week was that Mum & Dad brought along a bunch of old photo albums. They make one realise...
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Coastal Spring
A few days amongst the narrow-laned, softly rolling hills of the North Cornwall and Devon coast are drawing to a close. It's been a wonderful time, with my whole family...
Coastal Spring
A few days amongst the narrow-laned, softly rolling hills of the North Cornwall and Devon coast are drawing to a close. It's been a wonderful time, with my whole family...
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Happy Easter!
The blog is on an Easter Holiday today. The post Happy Easter! appeared first on Ben Pentreath Inspiration.
Happy Easter!
The blog is on an Easter Holiday today. The post Happy Easter! appeared first on Ben Pentreath Inspiration.
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Walking the High Line
Oh man! What's the best thing thats happened to New York since I left?!? (please, excuse the pun). The High Line. Regular readers will recall my blog a couple of...
Walking the High Line
Oh man! What's the best thing thats happened to New York since I left?!? (please, excuse the pun). The High Line. Regular readers will recall my blog a couple of...
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In praise of…John Derian
I think not a lot of people know that when we first opened the shop in London it was all a bit of what you might call a drugs front....
In praise of…John Derian
I think not a lot of people know that when we first opened the shop in London it was all a bit of what you might call a drugs front....
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New York City, I love you…
"I'm not so in love with New York anymore" said my friend Thomas the other day, and I can't remember who else it was I was chatting to recently who...
New York City, I love you…
"I'm not so in love with New York anymore" said my friend Thomas the other day, and I can't remember who else it was I was chatting to recently who...
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And then there was one
Do you remember holidays as a child, which seemed to stretch for an eternity? Time is a weird thing, I find. How is it that days and nights move so...
And then there was one
Do you remember holidays as a child, which seemed to stretch for an eternity? Time is a weird thing, I find. How is it that days and nights move so...
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In like a Lion, out like a Lamb?
Well, it's certainly a freezing start to March. I'm in London and as I'm writing, a snowstorm is threatening to blow in; and I've got to admit, without trying to...
In like a Lion, out like a Lamb?
Well, it's certainly a freezing start to March. I'm in London and as I'm writing, a snowstorm is threatening to blow in; and I've got to admit, without trying to...
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Spring turning…
I was sitting at my drawing board this afternoon, in Dorset, having dropped off my friends Tom, Maisie, Moss and Vera at the station. And I suddenly realised something. It...
Spring turning…
I was sitting at my drawing board this afternoon, in Dorset, having dropped off my friends Tom, Maisie, Moss and Vera at the station. And I suddenly realised something. It...
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Subliminal power
I had an extraordinary day today. I know that I said, at the end of the last blog, that normal service will resume next week - and I am sure...
Subliminal power
I had an extraordinary day today. I know that I said, at the end of the last blog, that normal service will resume next week - and I am sure...
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And I’m happy to say that…
that particular vote passed.. and, yes, I'm happy. Now it's on to the next stages in Parliament, and doubtless lots more arguments, so I am afraid I can expect a few...
And I’m happy to say that…
that particular vote passed.. and, yes, I'm happy. Now it's on to the next stages in Parliament, and doubtless lots more arguments, so I am afraid I can expect a few...
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Monochromatic
There's a proper blog here, for those that are interested (and thank you for your interesting comments, already)... But we can't let the snow pass by without saying how much...
Monochromatic
There's a proper blog here, for those that are interested (and thank you for your interesting comments, already)... But we can't let the snow pass by without saying how much...
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Spring song and Summer song…
What is it about these dark January days? Yes, maybe, like me, you've noticed the mornings getting lighter, just slightly... yes, perhaps there is a blackbird that sings from time...
Spring song and Summer song…
What is it about these dark January days? Yes, maybe, like me, you've noticed the mornings getting lighter, just slightly... yes, perhaps there is a blackbird that sings from time...
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Quietly welcoming the New Year
Three quiet days in Dorset, with closest friends, to ring out the old and welcome in the New Year. I was sad to see 2012 go; a strange year in...
Quietly welcoming the New Year
Three quiet days in Dorset, with closest friends, to ring out the old and welcome in the New Year. I was sad to see 2012 go; a strange year in...
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Classical Landscape, with Memories…
I hope you have had a fantastic Christmas - if you've been celebrating. Mine was quiet, but very very happy; in London, with Mum and Dad, and my neighbour Maggie,...
Classical Landscape, with Memories…
I hope you have had a fantastic Christmas - if you've been celebrating. Mine was quiet, but very very happy; in London, with Mum and Dad, and my neighbour Maggie,...
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Happy Christmas!
Have a really happy, safe, peaceful Christmas, with best wishes from Ben. The post Happy Christmas! appeared first on Ben Pentreath Inspiration.
Happy Christmas!
Have a really happy, safe, peaceful Christmas, with best wishes from Ben. The post Happy Christmas! appeared first on Ben Pentreath Inspiration.
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Colours of Winter
It's been a simultaneously quiet and hectic weekend in Dorset. Perhaps an occupational hazard for the time of year? I went to three birthday parties, no less: my lovely neighbour's...
Colours of Winter
It's been a simultaneously quiet and hectic weekend in Dorset. Perhaps an occupational hazard for the time of year? I went to three birthday parties, no less: my lovely neighbour's...
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You can’t judge a book by its cover…
"Do you have Living in Vogue (1984)?" ...was the enigmatic pencil-written note on the back of old postcard that arrived from my friend Ruth (she who was putting me off...
You can’t judge a book by its cover…
"Do you have Living in Vogue (1984)?" ...was the enigmatic pencil-written note on the back of old postcard that arrived from my friend Ruth (she who was putting me off...
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Workroom Profile: Bridie Hall at Home
Beginning a blog featuring our many and varied suppliers has been at the pinnacle of my ‘to do’ list for the last three months. I must admit to suffering from...
Workroom Profile: Bridie Hall at Home
Beginning a blog featuring our many and varied suppliers has been at the pinnacle of my ‘to do’ list for the last three months. I must admit to suffering from...
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English Style
BenIf you’re anything like me, you buy a lot more books than you have time to read. My shelves are groaning. My bedside table is laden with books that could...
English Style
by Ben PentreathIf you’re anything like me, you buy a lot more books than you have time to read. My shelves are groaning. My bedside table is laden with books that could...
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Tangerine dream
BenIt’s Monday, I’m back in London, and I’m in a bit of a daze. Not just the effects of a weekend of expatriat-scale-cocktail-drinking after six weeks of Lenten abstinence. There’s...
Tangerine dream
by Ben PentreathIt’s Monday, I’m back in London, and I’m in a bit of a daze. Not just the effects of a weekend of expatriat-scale-cocktail-drinking after six weeks of Lenten abstinence. There’s...
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Dreaming of Heat…
BenThere is honestly nothing, nothing, in the world that I love more than that moment – which I think happened this weekend, down here in Dorset, when there’s a tipping point headlong...
Dreaming of Heat…
by Ben PentreathThere is honestly nothing, nothing, in the world that I love more than that moment – which I think happened this weekend, down here in Dorset, when there’s a tipping point headlong...
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Rain doesn’t stop play
BenI arrived in Dorset on Friday afternoon to find the house and garden bathed in remarkable sunshine. It felt like a midsummer evening. Will and Maggie were driving down for...
Rain doesn’t stop play
by Ben PentreathI arrived in Dorset on Friday afternoon to find the house and garden bathed in remarkable sunshine. It felt like a midsummer evening. Will and Maggie were driving down for...
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In praise of… Habitat in the early 70s
BenIt’s nine o’ clock and I can’t believe where the evening has gone. Well, that’s what happens when the clocks change. But it’s also what happens when you’ve had a...
In praise of… Habitat in the early 70s
by Ben PentreathIt’s nine o’ clock and I can’t believe where the evening has gone. Well, that’s what happens when the clocks change. But it’s also what happens when you’ve had a...
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Workroom Profile: Bridie Hall at Home
Bridie HallBeginning a blog featuring our many and varied suppliers has been at the pinnacle of my ‘to do’ list for the last three months. I must admit to suffering from...
Workroom Profile: Bridie Hall at Home
by Bridie HallBeginning a blog featuring our many and varied suppliers has been at the pinnacle of my ‘to do’ list for the last three months. I must admit to suffering from...
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Never go back…
Ben…was the wise advice Will gave me a couple of weeks ago. So true. I’d been asked by the Soane Museum to give a talk, last Monday evening. “What’s it...
Never go back…
by Ben Pentreath…was the wise advice Will gave me a couple of weeks ago. So true. I’d been asked by the Soane Museum to give a talk, last Monday evening. “What’s it...
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Back to Normal
BenIt’s been a bit of a secret of mine, really, but since last summer, around about the time I came back from Italy, the garden has been completely out of...
Back to Normal
by Ben PentreathIt’s been a bit of a secret of mine, really, but since last summer, around about the time I came back from Italy, the garden has been completely out of...
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Morning at Franklin Farm
BenIf I ever get around to writing another book, one of the reasons will be to publish photographs of my friends Kim and Pip’s farmhouse in Hampshire. I was staying...
Morning at Franklin Farm
by Ben PentreathIf I ever get around to writing another book, one of the reasons will be to publish photographs of my friends Kim and Pip’s farmhouse in Hampshire. I was staying...
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Hockney Spring
BenYou’d have felt a bit sad to be an old gold-framed Old Master hanging at the Dulwich Picture Gallery this weekend. The people were queuing to see Hockney. I’m afraid...
Hockney Spring
by Ben PentreathYou’d have felt a bit sad to be an old gold-framed Old Master hanging at the Dulwich Picture Gallery this weekend. The people were queuing to see Hockney. I’m afraid...
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Close to Heaven
BenIt’s been a weekend of houses and wide landscapes. I’ve been up on the coast again, in Norfolk. It was a dreamy, bright day on Friday, driving up to Norfolk...
Close to Heaven
by Ben PentreathIt’s been a weekend of houses and wide landscapes. I’ve been up on the coast again, in Norfolk. It was a dreamy, bright day on Friday, driving up to Norfolk...
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Days Lengthening
BenWell, who knew we’re an eighth of the way through the year already? At this rate it will be time to plan your Christmas holidays. Just when you thought we...
Days Lengthening
by Ben PentreathWell, who knew we’re an eighth of the way through the year already? At this rate it will be time to plan your Christmas holidays. Just when you thought we...
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Cyclical worlds
BenIt’s been back to reality with a vengeance. The noise of Mexico City and the peace of Tulum seem an age away: hard to believe I’ve only been back a...
Cyclical worlds
by Ben PentreathIt’s been back to reality with a vengeance. The noise of Mexico City and the peace of Tulum seem an age away: hard to believe I’ve only been back a...
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It’s strange to be back…
Ben….and to welcome you to gloomy old London and a bright new home for the blog! I hope you all find your way around. As you will recall, we had...
It’s strange to be back…
by Ben Pentreath….and to welcome you to gloomy old London and a bright new home for the blog! I hope you all find your way around. As you will recall, we had...
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Gloom rising
BenFor those that like to read the blog early on a Monday with their morning tea, in bed, please blame my friends David and Chris for throwing their annual Christmas...
Gloom rising
by Ben PentreathFor those that like to read the blog early on a Monday with their morning tea, in bed, please blame my friends David and Chris for throwing their annual Christmas...
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There’s a reason why…
Ben..... why What? Before I tell you what I really want to write about today, here's some gratuitously beautiful photos of a walk on Hampstead Heath this morning, with my...
There’s a reason why…
by Ben Pentreath..... why What? Before I tell you what I really want to write about today, here's some gratuitously beautiful photos of a walk on Hampstead Heath this morning, with my...
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Christmas news
shopChristmas news Christmas comes but once a year and we like to make it as memorable and as fun a celebration as possible. We’ve gone to great pains putting together...
Christmas news
by shopChristmas news Christmas comes but once a year and we like to make it as memorable and as fun a celebration as possible. We’ve gone to great pains putting together...
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Days from Heaven
Ben"I just love this time of year". It's an expression I've heard time and time again recently. I suspect there is something of the autumn in all of us; that...
Days from Heaven
by Ben Pentreath"I just love this time of year". It's an expression I've heard time and time again recently. I suspect there is something of the autumn in all of us; that...
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Contrasts
BenI think the blog is divided between people who like weekends in London and weekends in the country. Which are you? I love both. Part of me would have loved...
Contrasts
by Ben PentreathI think the blog is divided between people who like weekends in London and weekends in the country. Which are you? I love both. Part of me would have loved...
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It’s about the time of year…
BenWhen I realise just how much I love living in London. If you've been reading the blog for a while, you might remember one or two little odes to the...
It’s about the time of year…
by Ben PentreathWhen I realise just how much I love living in London. If you've been reading the blog for a while, you might remember one or two little odes to the...
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Recharge
BenI love quiet dark Sunday evenings in the winter. And it's amazing how dark it suddenly was in Dorset this afternoon. A storm is blowing in, and as I write...
Recharge
by Ben PentreathI love quiet dark Sunday evenings in the winter. And it's amazing how dark it suddenly was in Dorset this afternoon. A storm is blowing in, and as I write...
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Winter evenings in a new coat
BenI'm a creature of habit, and I also love the regular things of life when they happen. I think you know this. That moment of turning the clocks back is...
Winter evenings in a new coat
by Ben PentreathI'm a creature of habit, and I also love the regular things of life when they happen. I think you know this. That moment of turning the clocks back is...
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Dear Ben, please may we see…
BenWhat's been happening up at your flat in London? Is a question that - if you happen to follow the comments section of the blog - comes up from time...
Dear Ben, please may we see…
by Ben PentreathWhat's been happening up at your flat in London? Is a question that - if you happen to follow the comments section of the blog - comes up from time...
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Really New Beginnings
BenI've been hinting, from time to time, about some exciting developments in the shop. And they've all happened this week. For ages and ages, Bridie and I have been talking...
Really New Beginnings
by Ben PentreathI've been hinting, from time to time, about some exciting developments in the shop. And they've all happened this week. For ages and ages, Bridie and I have been talking...
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New beginnings
BenI love this time of year. I've probably written it already in the last couple of weeks; The post New beginnings appeared first on Ben Pentreath Inspiration.
New beginnings
by Ben PentreathI love this time of year. I've probably written it already in the last couple of weeks; The post New beginnings appeared first on Ben Pentreath Inspiration.
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I’ve missed you
Ben...It's been a long time, as some loyal readers of the blog have taken to commenting on (which, I would say, is a fair comment), since I was in Dorset....
I’ve missed you
by Ben Pentreath...It's been a long time, as some loyal readers of the blog have taken to commenting on (which, I would say, is a fair comment), since I was in Dorset....
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Roman Mornings
BenI have a feeling that one of two readers would like to see what's up in Dorset (judging from the comments section). And I must admit, so would I. From...
Roman Mornings
by Ben PentreathI have a feeling that one of two readers would like to see what's up in Dorset (judging from the comments section). And I must admit, so would I. From...
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The floor polisher of the Pantheon
BenYou won't find me getting up early for the Sales. I slightly look down on (can I admit it?) that peculiarly British habit of getting up very very early to...
The floor polisher of the Pantheon
by Ben PentreathYou won't find me getting up early for the Sales. I slightly look down on (can I admit it?) that peculiarly British habit of getting up very very early to...
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La Citta Ideale
BenIt's strange how time flies on holiday. I'm lying in my hotel bedroom in Rome, in the middle of a massive thunderstorm (during which I could not of course resist...
La Citta Ideale
by Ben PentreathIt's strange how time flies on holiday. I'm lying in my hotel bedroom in Rome, in the middle of a massive thunderstorm (during which I could not of course resist...
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Thank you…
BenTo everyone who has very kindly entered my international conspiracy For Valentina's birthday and placed an order from Many Kitchens... it's worked! I am so grateful... Birthday going well... Here,...
Thank you…
by Ben PentreathTo everyone who has very kindly entered my international conspiracy For Valentina's birthday and placed an order from Many Kitchens... it's worked! I am so grateful... Birthday going well... Here,...
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The best things in life don’t change…
BenI realise that it's a year ago to the day (18th August) that I wrote a little blog about the Siena Palio that... how can I put it?... set the...
The best things in life don’t change…
by Ben PentreathI realise that it's a year ago to the day (18th August) that I wrote a little blog about the Siena Palio that... how can I put it?... set the...
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Oh dear oh dear oh dear…
BenJust when I'd said my farewells... Answered all emails. Check. Booked taxi for early morning departure: check. Said goodbye to everyone... check. Found out which day my niece's A-level exam...
Oh dear oh dear oh dear…
by Ben PentreathJust when I'd said my farewells... Answered all emails. Check. Booked taxi for early morning departure: check. Said goodbye to everyone... check. Found out which day my niece's A-level exam...
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Year Turning
BenI'm writing on Sunday evening, at the Old Parsonage. It's completely still and quiet. Perhaps the stillness is exemplified by the departure, earlier, of my friends Tom & Masie and...
Year Turning
by Ben PentreathI'm writing on Sunday evening, at the Old Parsonage. It's completely still and quiet. Perhaps the stillness is exemplified by the departure, earlier, of my friends Tom & Masie and...
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North Norfolk Coastal
BenI left London on beautiful, baking hot Thursday morning. I was making my way to the coast - to Cley-next-the-Sea, where we've been asked to help on a fine small...
North Norfolk Coastal
by Ben PentreathI left London on beautiful, baking hot Thursday morning. I was making my way to the coast - to Cley-next-the-Sea, where we've been asked to help on a fine small...
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In a perfect world…
BenIt was a serene Friday morning when Lucy and I left London, early, to drive down to our decoration project near Devizes. We're working on a dreamy old stone manor...
In a perfect world…
by Ben PentreathIt was a serene Friday morning when Lucy and I left London, early, to drive down to our decoration project near Devizes. We're working on a dreamy old stone manor...
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The real way of doing things
Ben"That's a nice website you've got there, Ben", said Jim when we spoke this morning to talk about bricks. "Did you really take all those photos? Is that your garden?...
The real way of doing things
by Ben Pentreath"That's a nice website you've got there, Ben", said Jim when we spoke this morning to talk about bricks. "Did you really take all those photos? Is that your garden?...
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High Summer morning
BenI've got some interesting things to be writing about this week, but tonight, I'm very sleepy and I've got what you might call an early start in the morning. I'm...
High Summer morning
by Ben PentreathI've got some interesting things to be writing about this week, but tonight, I'm very sleepy and I've got what you might call an early start in the morning. I'm...
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In the beginning and at the end
BenSummer arrives: full-blown, blowsy, full of heat. The year tips imperceptibly... just beyond its half way point... and suddenly—as if by magic—the countryside is filled with the sounds and smells...
In the beginning and at the end
by Ben PentreathSummer arrives: full-blown, blowsy, full of heat. The year tips imperceptibly... just beyond its half way point... and suddenly—as if by magic—the countryside is filled with the sounds and smells...
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On the Isle of Portland
BenWhat do you do in Dorset if it's midsummer and blowing a gale? (yes, yes, enough about the weather). Mum and Dad were staying this weekend. A huge wind was...
On the Isle of Portland
by Ben PentreathWhat do you do in Dorset if it's midsummer and blowing a gale? (yes, yes, enough about the weather). Mum and Dad were staying this weekend. A huge wind was...
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Ugly Buildings
BenThis is probably going to turn out to be the longest professional suicide note in history. I really should be writing about how good the irises are this year. The...
Ugly Buildings
by Ben PentreathThis is probably going to turn out to be the longest professional suicide note in history. I really should be writing about how good the irises are this year. The...
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On various ways of catching up
BenI've had the quietest weekend you can imagine. Valentina called from New York yesterday, for a catch up; and other than that phone call (p.s, Val's mum, just in case...
On various ways of catching up
by Ben PentreathI've had the quietest weekend you can imagine. Valentina called from New York yesterday, for a catch up; and other than that phone call (p.s, Val's mum, just in case...
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Why I love Dorset
BenI went for a spin this afternoon - in my Morris Minor, which, to be honest, has been a little under the weather for months. My friend and neighbour Mike...
Why I love Dorset
by Ben PentreathI went for a spin this afternoon - in my Morris Minor, which, to be honest, has been a little under the weather for months. My friend and neighbour Mike...
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Through the Woods
BenOne of my favourite books, that I find myself returning to from time to time, is H. E. Bates's Through the Woods. Years ago, I used to spend a lot...
Through the Woods
by Ben PentreathOne of my favourite books, that I find myself returning to from time to time, is H. E. Bates's Through the Woods. Years ago, I used to spend a lot...
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Normal Service Resuming
BenWe are pleased to announce that normal service has resumed. No more politics, no more sadness. It was a beautiful early Summer weekend in Dorset and the blog contains nothing...
Normal Service Resuming
by Ben PentreathWe are pleased to announce that normal service has resumed. No more politics, no more sadness. It was a beautiful early Summer weekend in Dorset and the blog contains nothing...
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Dormant Spring
Ben...On the other hand (for those who've just read my last post), one of the things I like most about this blog, for me, is that it weirdly now acts...
Dormant Spring
by Ben Pentreath...On the other hand (for those who've just read my last post), one of the things I like most about this blog, for me, is that it weirdly now acts...
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Family Album
BenOne of the nicest things about settling down with my family last week was that Mum & Dad brought along a bunch of old photo albums. They make one realise...
Family Album
by Ben PentreathOne of the nicest things about settling down with my family last week was that Mum & Dad brought along a bunch of old photo albums. They make one realise...
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Coastal Spring
BenA few days amongst the narrow-laned, softly rolling hills of the North Cornwall and Devon coast are drawing to a close. It's been a wonderful time, with my whole family...
Coastal Spring
by Ben PentreathA few days amongst the narrow-laned, softly rolling hills of the North Cornwall and Devon coast are drawing to a close. It's been a wonderful time, with my whole family...
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Happy Easter!
BenThe blog is on an Easter Holiday today. The post Happy Easter! appeared first on Ben Pentreath Inspiration.
Happy Easter!
by Ben PentreathThe blog is on an Easter Holiday today. The post Happy Easter! appeared first on Ben Pentreath Inspiration.
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Walking the High Line
BenOh man! What's the best thing thats happened to New York since I left?!? (please, excuse the pun). The High Line. Regular readers will recall my blog a couple of...
Walking the High Line
by Ben PentreathOh man! What's the best thing thats happened to New York since I left?!? (please, excuse the pun). The High Line. Regular readers will recall my blog a couple of...
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In praise of…John Derian
BenI think not a lot of people know that when we first opened the shop in London it was all a bit of what you might call a drugs front....
In praise of…John Derian
by Ben PentreathI think not a lot of people know that when we first opened the shop in London it was all a bit of what you might call a drugs front....
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New York City, I love you…
Ben"I'm not so in love with New York anymore" said my friend Thomas the other day, and I can't remember who else it was I was chatting to recently who...
New York City, I love you…
by Ben Pentreath"I'm not so in love with New York anymore" said my friend Thomas the other day, and I can't remember who else it was I was chatting to recently who...
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And then there was one
BenDo you remember holidays as a child, which seemed to stretch for an eternity? Time is a weird thing, I find. How is it that days and nights move so...
And then there was one
by Ben PentreathDo you remember holidays as a child, which seemed to stretch for an eternity? Time is a weird thing, I find. How is it that days and nights move so...
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In like a Lion, out like a Lamb?
BenWell, it's certainly a freezing start to March. I'm in London and as I'm writing, a snowstorm is threatening to blow in; and I've got to admit, without trying to...
In like a Lion, out like a Lamb?
by Ben PentreathWell, it's certainly a freezing start to March. I'm in London and as I'm writing, a snowstorm is threatening to blow in; and I've got to admit, without trying to...
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Spring turning…
BenI was sitting at my drawing board this afternoon, in Dorset, having dropped off my friends Tom, Maisie, Moss and Vera at the station. And I suddenly realised something. It...
Spring turning…
by Ben PentreathI was sitting at my drawing board this afternoon, in Dorset, having dropped off my friends Tom, Maisie, Moss and Vera at the station. And I suddenly realised something. It...
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Subliminal power
BenI had an extraordinary day today. I know that I said, at the end of the last blog, that normal service will resume next week - and I am sure...
Subliminal power
by Ben PentreathI had an extraordinary day today. I know that I said, at the end of the last blog, that normal service will resume next week - and I am sure...
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And I’m happy to say that…
Benthat particular vote passed.. and, yes, I'm happy. Now it's on to the next stages in Parliament, and doubtless lots more arguments, so I am afraid I can expect a few...
And I’m happy to say that…
by Ben Pentreaththat particular vote passed.. and, yes, I'm happy. Now it's on to the next stages in Parliament, and doubtless lots more arguments, so I am afraid I can expect a few...
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Monochromatic
BenThere's a proper blog here, for those that are interested (and thank you for your interesting comments, already)... But we can't let the snow pass by without saying how much...
Monochromatic
by Ben PentreathThere's a proper blog here, for those that are interested (and thank you for your interesting comments, already)... But we can't let the snow pass by without saying how much...
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Spring song and Summer song…
BenWhat is it about these dark January days? Yes, maybe, like me, you've noticed the mornings getting lighter, just slightly... yes, perhaps there is a blackbird that sings from time...
Spring song and Summer song…
by Ben PentreathWhat is it about these dark January days? Yes, maybe, like me, you've noticed the mornings getting lighter, just slightly... yes, perhaps there is a blackbird that sings from time...
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Quietly welcoming the New Year
BenThree quiet days in Dorset, with closest friends, to ring out the old and welcome in the New Year. I was sad to see 2012 go; a strange year in...
Quietly welcoming the New Year
by Ben PentreathThree quiet days in Dorset, with closest friends, to ring out the old and welcome in the New Year. I was sad to see 2012 go; a strange year in...
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Classical Landscape, with Memories…
BenI hope you have had a fantastic Christmas - if you've been celebrating. Mine was quiet, but very very happy; in London, with Mum and Dad, and my neighbour Maggie,...
Classical Landscape, with Memories…
by Ben PentreathI hope you have had a fantastic Christmas - if you've been celebrating. Mine was quiet, but very very happy; in London, with Mum and Dad, and my neighbour Maggie,...
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Happy Christmas!
BenHave a really happy, safe, peaceful Christmas, with best wishes from Ben. The post Happy Christmas! appeared first on Ben Pentreath Inspiration.
Happy Christmas!
by Ben PentreathHave a really happy, safe, peaceful Christmas, with best wishes from Ben. The post Happy Christmas! appeared first on Ben Pentreath Inspiration.
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Colours of Winter
BenIt's been a simultaneously quiet and hectic weekend in Dorset. Perhaps an occupational hazard for the time of year? I went to three birthday parties, no less: my lovely neighbour's...
Colours of Winter
by Ben PentreathIt's been a simultaneously quiet and hectic weekend in Dorset. Perhaps an occupational hazard for the time of year? I went to three birthday parties, no less: my lovely neighbour's...
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You can’t judge a book by its cover…
Ben"Do you have Living in Vogue (1984)?" ...was the enigmatic pencil-written note on the back of old postcard that arrived from my friend Ruth (she who was putting me off...
You can’t judge a book by its cover…
by Ben Pentreath"Do you have Living in Vogue (1984)?" ...was the enigmatic pencil-written note on the back of old postcard that arrived from my friend Ruth (she who was putting me off...
