now and then, poppy, fruit

 Dandelion bud and flower.

In our garden, a white poppy opens in the sun and almost at the same time as the petals unfurl, three... four bees arrive to take advantage of its opulence.

On the counter in Hall's bookshop a wicker tray of various fruits presents a vivid contrast to the faded understatement of second hand books on shelves and tables. People, including myself, cannot withhold their curiosity. "An eccentric customer left it," says the young man in charge, "he said 'help yourself'' so help yourself". "I'd love a tomato," says an elderly lady, may I take one?"