Guess who's back?

After 9 weeks away, I returned for my first GoodGym session since the birth of my second child.

Finally getting out of the flat, I was giddy with excitement arriving at Gale Street Organic Community Garden and seeing so many wonderful GoodGymers. Especially Monika who came along for a trial session - I loved your curiosity about GoodGym and all the questions you had; crossing my fingers you'll be back!

Weeding was the order of the day - with Nassaba guiding us on what to remove and what to leave. Although half the growing area was covered in coriander - we decided to leave it in place as it smelt amazing and Peter took some home to cook with - it was brilliant to see you after so long away.

A special well done to Meenakshi for making it to their first Gale Street session - especially after searching all over Becontree to find us. The garden is squirrelled away behind the Coop on Gale Street, I must update the direction instructions! 🙈

Our Future Leader Mason is growing in confidence every session, now having been co-leader at their 3rd. To thoroughly embarrass you - I really admire your calm and gentle presence, making everyone fee comfortable and at ease.

Last but not least, I really enjoyed chatting with Kim as we quietly worked away removing weeds from around the tomatoes - a few more days sunshine and they'll be juicy enough to harvest!

4 GoodGymers from B&D turned up at Company Drinks on Friday night to get the party started!

Huge shout out to Hazna for joining their first session with GoodGym B&D, as well as a big well done to Nilu, Bimal and Steven for their hard work!

With an exclusive invite from Shaun - Company Drinks Head of Food & Drinks - we refreshed the vegetable planters and mulched the ground ahead of the Community Open Day.

As well as producing food and drink on site from home grown and foraged ingredients, Company Drinks run a programme of community activities including Yoga, Meditation, Arts & Crafts, food & drink production, gardening and holiday available activity for families.

Going behind the scenes at Company Drinks was incredibly exciting as Shaun gave us the tour - we got to see the the kitchen where all the magic happens including the pasteurizer and carbonators.

We can't wait return and spend more time at this magical garden in Barking Park!