Valmai, can you post a link to that great photo of you offering loaves to - who is that figure? I would have called him The Green Man, except he ain't green! Does he have a traditional name? (And who is it in real life? Snail, I'm looking at yooooooou...) It's a lovely pic.

Michael is from very near the area in Ingrave Essex where Vaughan Williams first collected Bushes & Briars, and I like to envision "Shepherd Pottipher" as being another Shepherd Oak. (BTW, there's a gorgeous 16th-century pub close by, which still has its rural feel, as well as great food: The Old Dog at Herongate Tye, if you're ever passing and feel in need of acquiring a multiplying eye.)

PS: Hugs to Sandra -