A few years ago I decided that my blog was becoming too rigid, too much of it's own entity and not enough of mine so I vowed to share more of my photographs just because. I shouldn't need to justify any output or give supporting evidence. A real hobby is to capture the countryside through my lens and there need not always be an explanation. I'm glad that I did, for it's made me smile, given me something to focus on and kept this place alive for me.
There are times when inspiration strikes when I find myself typing and typing only to read back through and strangely almost don't recognise my own thoughts. It's quite intriguing. For the days that the words don't unveil themselves there are pictures. Days when things seem to fall apart can be mitigated by finding something to pick me up; a fragrant flower, a rainbow reflection from a glass, sunshine on dewy grass, a butterfly lingering on blooms.



Two flying beauties. The masterpiece above is not one I've ever been able to take a photograph of before. Below, I didn't get much of a shot of this one.







Take care, embrace all the possibilities and see the magic.
Sophie

A throwback to August, better late than never. This dress from Henry Holland was a charity shop find last year and one that really made me smile. In Hazel's latest post whilst talking about charity shopping mentioned how it gives a greater sense of satisfaction finding something you like. I completely agree. There is something about browsing rails of total miscellany, sifting through the chaff which makes the gems shine all the brighter. I'm getting better about buying these days; more consideration is given to whether I have anything to wear it with or any cause to pop it on at all. Party dresses are all well and good but if you're a party-avoider like me they really must be considered superfluous.


A summer dress like this is always going to be practical in the warmer seasons and will be worth keeping for that day. Staples like good quality shirts and cosy jumpers are things I remain on the lookout for permanently. I have a lot of winter skirts and a few pairs of shorts.

Shopping on the high street emotes more guilt from me than anything else; over the price, quality, source. Supporting fast fashion firsthand seems much naughtier than recycling someone else's unwanted surplus.

 I was playing around with some cob nuts and it appears I can't try catching without looking ridiculous. Two left hands, never been any good at catching! 
I naively thought that a weight gain would mean just going up a size but it really doesn't. Having been a scrawny child, then a slim adult up until a year or so ago I didn't grasp the complexity of how bodies can change; mine had only ever been gradual. It's more of a shape re-calibration than anything else. Two sizes up for the waist to one on the hips and bust, not so easy to shop for. Skinny jeans certainly don't feel comfortable or practical and it is often a choice to wear a skirt on the hips or high up on the waist, otherwise emphasizing the ever inversing hourglass. Skater dresses, that fit and flare kind are out. Likely for good.

But all is not lost. I've had a really good few weeks of exercise and sleep so for the moment things are on the right track.

Take care,
Sophie

Of course, we headed out for a good walk to soak up the sunshine and stretch our legs. The contrast of bold blue skies and autumn landscape was beautiful. Those neat red rosehips look fabulous.



 Monday morning surprised me with a sighting of the muntjac deer (and baby - not in shot) whilst I was out in the garden. I snapped away with my phone and this is the best picture I got in the early morning light.


It didn't end there. We had to pass by a hornet's nest in a hole in a tree. You might be able to see an orangier patch in the middle tree below. Funnily enough, I had NO INTENTION of lingering anywhere near it to risk getting in trouble, so you will have to take my word for it. The hum was fabulous as we passed. No stings for us, but a nasty little boy behind did get stung, which after seeing him larking around with a huge precarious bough minutes beforehand and not being reprimanded by his father I have to say I rather felt nature had restored karma.

Oh, what are these called? I'm sure I stumbled upon them in one of my books but I'll have to look it up again sometime.


Abov, some fungi nestled away.
Below, Bittersweet berries. They look pretty but are poisonous.


The last encounter to tell you of was three beautiful buzzards flying low over our allotment while we worked. They were majestic but sadly no camera. They usually soar high up or antagonise the crows but never come close to us.
Such a brilliant weekend full of wildlife.
Have you had an unexpected close encounter?
Sophie

As a long overdue treat a couple of weeks ago we finally go round to visiting Gooderstone water gardens in mid Norfolk. I don't want to waffle on too much, more just leave you with a few pictures that I like. The day itself was one of those where the dark clouds keep rolling over and causing abrupt downpours yet the sun keeps fighting back to shine through.


The gardens were still yielding a high colour - contrary to ours at home! I need to plant more which lasts through September. In the sunshine the dragonflies and damselflies came out to play







Along with 6 acres of gardens, ponds, 13 bridges and wonder there is also an 8 acre nature trail. We headed to the kingfisher hide, crept in and (sadly) there was a gentleman already in situ so even despite our best efforts to keep quiet we did cause a little disturbance. Sitting on the bench looking out at the peaceful view in the perfect natural silence was a little too relaxing and I had to leave after approximately 10 minutes to avoid falling into a snoring slumber.

I really enjoyed my visit because I thoroughly enjoy a gentle stroll around beautiful gardens. There are plenty of benches to sit and take in the surroundings as well as the tearoom to refresh yourself too. This is somewhere I would love to revisit in spring and early summer to see how the gardens evolve and change through the seasons. It was so tranquil and full of inspiration, we must return. For all the visiting information you need take a look at the Gooderstone water gardens website. This is not a collaborative post, just a lovely day out I wanted to share.
Take care,
Sophie