Photo Journal - Buzzards, Bikes and Blue Skies.
From buzzards soaring above the golf course to summer bike rides, a garden makeover, Matilda’s return home and a memorable Lady Captain’s Day, this week’s photo journal captures another week of enjoying life to the full.
One of the highlights of my golf this week came on the 11th hole. As we walked up the fairway, a buzzard appeared overhead, soaring effortlessly on the breeze. Moments later it found itself under attack from a group of noisy seagulls determined to protect their chicks.
The buzzard was so low that we could clearly see its beautifully marked undercarriage, a real privilege and not something you see every day. The seagulls eventually won the argument, and the buzzard made a hasty retreat, it was a wonderful wildlife encounter and a real treat to witness so close at hand.
The rat saga continues. One wandered past the summer house this week without a care in the world, seemingly unconcerned by my presence. They seem to be getting bolder by the day.
While the rats seem determined to take over the garden, I spent part of the week trying to regain control of it by tackling the cloud-pruned conifer.
Inspired by a Chelsea Flower Show feature, I decided to try cloud pruning rather than remove it. Eight years later it’s still a work in progress.
After three hours of pruning, the clouds have reappeared, the garden has a little more light and the tree remains under control — at least for another year. What do you think?
An early start this morning. With Wales in the middle of a heatwave, we agreed that an 8:30 start made sense before the day became too hot.
One of my favourite rides took us up towards Rhyd-y-Foel before dropping down to the coast path. Early grey skies soon gave way to blue, while a light breeze kept conditions comfortable.
Just after Rhyd-y-Foel we encountered a wagon carrying a huge caravan along one of the narrow lanes. How it squeezed past an oncoming car I’ll never know, but the driver managed it perfectly.
A coffee stop at Tides Café brought plenty of laughter and the chance to catch up with friends. The ride home, with calm blue seas, quiet beaches and colourful wildflowers lining the verges, rounded off a wonderful summer morning.
A wonderful morning spent cycling, enjoying the sunshine and catching up with good friends.
Earlier this week, Matilda headed over to Ruthin for some much-needed TLC after 89 days on the road around Europe. Today it was my turn to bring her home.
An early start in the scorching heat as I cycled over to collect her.
There was the easy route… or the hill route. The hills won. Again.
Despite a headwind that seemed to be blowing hot air straight at me, and not a cloud in the sky, it turned into one of those rides that simply felt good.
Early on, a line of scooters buzzed past, their engines sounding like a row of lawnmowers. For me, the sound instantly brought back memories of Rhyl in its heyday.
The scooters often had flags flying as they cruised along the promenade.
Back then, the prom was packed with holidaymakers. There were hamburger and hot dog stalls, and the smell of fried onions drifted through the air as you walked past.
Further along was the fair. Waltzers, dodgems, the roller coaster, music blaring, candy floss and flashing lights. It always felt alive.
The miles soon slipped by. I’ve ridden this route before, although usually in the opposite direction, and I’d forgotten what a lovely ride it is.
As I made my way towards Ruthin there were wonderful views across the Vale. Two buzzards were gliding low over the fields, barely flapping their wings. They really are beautiful birds.
Dropping down into Ruthin, the heat seemed to intensify. Thankfully it wasn’t long before I arrived at the workshop.
What great service. The blinds were down, the air conditioning was on, and Matilda was parked in the shade waiting for me.
A big thank you to MPI Campers & Caravans in Ruthin. They’ve done a fabulous job. After 89 days on the road, Matilda was in for some much-needed TLC and now feels like a luxury motorhome again. The new main skylight looks fantastic, and with the air conditioning, heating and running water all working perfectly, she’s back to her best.
It’s reassuring to find a company that takes such pride in their work. Now all that’s left to do is decide where Matilda takes us next.
Yesterday was Lady Captain’s Day at the golf club, with a really good turnout on a hot and windy day. The firm fairways and gusting wind made for some testing golf, but everyone took it in good spirits.
Our Lady Captain greeted us at the halfway house with welcome refreshments before we headed out for the back nine.
Later, back at the clubhouse, we enjoyed delicious food and wine, followed by plenty of chatter, laughter and the presentation of the day’s prizes, all beautifully presented in gift bags. It was a lovely end to a thoroughly enjoyable day.
Looking back, it was another week full of simple pleasures. A few laughs, plenty of fresh air, and lots of reasons to be grateful.
