23rd September 2017 Rural bliss!

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Saturday 23rd 53-60F, 12-15C, calm, bright and sunny.  The wind turbines were struggling to get started on flat batteries. Today was practice day for a driving 'dotard' who really ought not to be doing so any more. He approached along the straight with his inside wheels only a foot from the verge. With no obvious intention on his part to go out around me I jumped into the long grass to save my own life. His expression and fixed g[l]aze never altered. As he continued on his way like some cruise missile with a badly broken guidance system.

Further on, the roads were plastered in mud. The local farmer obviously thinks the public highway is where one turns one's tractor at the end of each furrow when ploughing the chocolate stuff.

Later still, the usual 'nutter' in his Mercedes two-seater came around a blind corner with what is usually described as "considerable enthusiasm." It can only be a matter of time before something vulnerable, or immovable, is blocking his path. In the interests of fairness one can only hope for the latter.

A dozen or more pheasants were tentatively crossing the field between two copses. At the sight of my good self they scattered in assorted directions. They really ought to elect a strong leader to keep things under control at times like these.

I was allowed out for my familiar Saturday morning ride. Going quite well and cruising at between 16 and 18mph on the way there. A couple of fit young chaps on their carbon steeds went past on the way back. Later I passed them as they dawdled beside the road. Then I was overtaken again. The home-made, Outboard, 40 liter saddlebag is really proving its worth. 15 miles.

Sunday 24th 56-60F,13-15C, heavy overcast and still. A potentially damp start is forecast but brighter later. My walk took me slightly further afield than usual along a quiet farm track to woods and ponds. Probably in excess of one hundred and fifty sparrows were moving like a swarm of bees along the hedgerows. A deer popped out and wandered along without realizing I was there. Lots of pheasants to be seen again. Busy again, so no ride today.

Click on any image for an enlargement.

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