And there I would rest and lie,
My chin in my hands, and gaze
At the dazzle of sand below,
And the green waves curling slow,
And the grey-blue distant haze
Where the sea goes up to the sky …. (The Island by A A Milne)

This weekend, my walking companion and I, both in recuperation, chose a flat seaside stroll on Sumner Esplanade where there are regular seats to rest and enjoy the view. We felt uplifted by the glorious golden sky, the warm fresh air and the smell of the sea. Cheese scones at Scarborough had a healing effect too. As did the sight of many dachshunds and their owners out for their monthly rally . ‘A Sausage Roll?’ I suggested. ‘That would be good,’ said one owner, ‘or maybe a Snag Drag’.