Late on a dull, overcast, afternoon Jackie and I took an optimistic forest drive, finding nothing worth photographing until surprised at
seeing more ponies in the woodland of Bisterne Close than would normally have been expected on such a day.
The denizen featured in these last two pictures first pricked up its ears at a distant neigh to my right; answered it, then trotted off in response across the road.
This evening we all dined on tasty roast duck; crisp Yorkshire pudding; creamy cauliflower cheese; boiled and mashed potatoes; firm carrots and Brussels sprouts, with which I finished the pinotage and the others drank soft and fruity M & S rosé.
Thank heavens for the ponies. Something to photograph on an otherwise dismal day. Dinner sounds wonderful.
Thank you very much, Pat
The ponies are so cute! I’ve never tried Roast Duck. I love ducks… ❤️ Happy New Year, guys!
You, too, John. The meat is tender and lean
That sounds so good!
Beautiful. Happy New Year to you and Jackie.
And to you and Norm, Chrissy. Thank you very much
Happy New Year Derrick and Jackie
Our forecast was supposed to be stormy…but it’s a brilliant looking summer day in the upper end of NI. Not so great further south
And to you, Catherine. We have storms back now
Glad you spotted the ponies. Why weren’t you expecting to see them? Does dismal weather typically send them somewhere else?
Further into the forest. Thank you very much, Crystal
The last full-width photo with the white horse, almost looks like a unicorn sighting.
So it does, Liz. Thanks very much
You’re welcome, Derrick.
“an optimistic forest drive” made me laugh. Happy New Year Derrick & Jackie.
And to you both, Bridget. Thank you very much
Lovely!
Happy New Year!
(((HUGS))) 🙂
And to you, Carolyn. Thanks very much XX
Happy Year, Jackie & Derrick … and I’m back home after my 8-day holiday at my sister’s in Miners Rest …
And to you and Frankie, Ivor. Thanks very much
It is always a pleasure to see the ponies. Happy new year to you and Jackie.
Thank you very much, Tootlepedal. The same to you both. May you have clear vision in every sense
The dull, overcast day has given your photos an atmospheric feeling!
Best wishes for 2025!
Thanks very much, Nikki. Your good wishes reciprocated.
Optimism generally pays off one way or another. I especially like the shaggy gray pony.
Thank you very much, JoAnna
Reminds me of Pablo Neruda’s poem: In the distance someone is singing. In the distance….
Thank you so much, Uma
Happy New Year Derrick and Jackie!
You were rewarded for continuing your ride. I like how you captured this gathering of ponies on a dreary day.
Thank you so much, Merril
Happy New Year to you both. I’m glad you found plenty of ponies to photograph.
Thank you so much, Sue
Some great looking ponies, Thank you!! [A sure-fire way for me to start the New Year!)
https://wp.me/a2IfOX-5Y5
Thanks very much, GP 🙂
Photos of ponies never dissapoint. Happy New Year to you and yours!
Thank you so much, Eugi
You’re welcome, Derrick.
Lovely images…. Thank you Derrick for sharing… Have a wonderful Happy New Year… with lots more rides out and many more of Jackie’s wonderful dinners xx
Much appreciated, Sue XX
Wishing you and Jackie a healthy happy year
Thank you very much, Sherry – and to you both
The ponies are always a welcome sight! They look suitably shaggy and warm in their winter coats. Wishing a Happy and Healthy New Year to you and Jackie, Derrick!
Thank you very much, Lavinia. And to you and Rick
Those beautiful creatures are such wonderful subjects.
Thank you very much, Gary
There always seem to be innumerable sources of inspiration Derrick.
Thank you very much, Sylvie
They are so cute!
Thank you very much, Riba
When there is nothing to photograph, ponies come to the rescue. Nice photos, Derrick.
Thank you very much, Dolly
You are very welcome, Derrick.