Swapped wellies for walking boots, shooed old dog back in (she went gratefully) and younger dog and I scuttled up the road towards the woods. Birds all in fine voice, including the woodpecker, his (her?) hammering ringing out in the icy air. For despite the warmth of the sun, when it occasionally disappeared and we were left to the mercies of a strong north-westerly wind it was freezing.
Met a man with a gun, as you do. Not quite so sinister as it sounds: this was a friendly country gentleman of mature years who I`ve never encountered in the woods before, and (the designated two metres apart of course) we agreed it was a lovely morning and discussed the local bird life. He had a large pair of binoculars and what looked like a tripod and we parted with a cheery wave.....but I`m still not sure what he was hoping to bag with the rifle at quarter to eight on a Spring morning. Did wonder if he`d given up shopping as too problematic and was trying to secure his next lunch.
Always think it`s odd we don`t meet more walkers in the woods - it`s generally the usual few suspects and then not very often.
However, it was a lovely morning for a walk, the catkins always an optimistic sight at this time of year
and that early light creating some magic.
And later, got to go for a second walk in the woods (but this time didn`t meet anyone), slow dog came along too so we took our time, properly relishing the space and fresh air. Not lucky exactly, we chose to live up here, but particularly fortunate just now. Onwards and upwards and into April!
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