First, let me say that in my head this all made perfect sense.

As you may know, I am listening to an excellent audio version of Lord of the Rings (Phil Dragash’s).  It is spectacular and I am enjoying it hugely. I last read LOTR on night duty on Bland Sutton Ward at the Middlesex Hospital in 1983 so am a bit rusty but still a keen fan.  There was also the BBC Radio version (also excellent) which I used to listened to while I sprayed/picked ragwort around 2000.  The films, I care less for and the Hobbit film(s), I consider a disgrace.  The book was so much better – I read it in my childhood.

Anyway, I digress. Due to balance issues, I currently walk supported by a thumb-stick. Mine is my mother’s and it is perfect for the job (robust wood with a well-positioned piece of antler for my thumb support).  I feel Gandalf would’ve approved.  It certainly gives me a Gandalfian feel as I potter about.

And then there are the sheep – all eight of them.

And you know where this is going.

Over breakfast, Daisy and I decided who the cast list of characters were…..

Frodo – obviously Lambie – a bit wet, not very brave and constantly supported by his friends.
Sam Gamgee – ‘Bert – supportive and cares about Lambie. Always there to help.
Strider – ‘Ster – again supportive and has secret knowledge (remember he found ‘Bert in the hill and brought him home).
Merry – Barrel – a close friend of Lambie.
Pippin – “Fool of a Took” – Gussie – a bit of an idiot but everyone’s friend.
Legolas – Maggie – nimble on her feet and quick thinking.
Gimli – Madge – tough as old boots and a bit stout.
Boromir – Dahlia – believes passionately about things and sticks to her ideas.

And so the Fellowship departed.

(I was taking them to their field where they spend the day).

Oh yes, and then there’s Smaug (from The Hobbit).

Lord of the Ring = Lady of the Bucket (see what I did there, geddit?)