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This afternoon we drove into the forest in search of water. We hoped to find at least some areas where the animals could drink.
The bed of the stretch of Highland Water just outside Brockenhurst was unusually dry, yet provided enough water for cattle to drink and to paddle, and for dogs to play. Other photographers recorded the scene while I focussed on them.
From there we proceeded to Hatchet Pond where the levels were high, and, again, cattle stood in, or along, the far side of the lake.
The tide was high at Tanner’s Lane. This little boy couldn’t drink the water, but he could certainly play in it. Just after I took these photographs he was stripped off and paddling.
As we left the lane a Muscovy duck made its slow, ungainly, way across the road, practising the heel and toe technique that would please my physiotherapists.
Back home we had no trouble finding a drink. Ours were taken on the grass patch from where we could enjoy views across the garden; and hanging baskets and planters in and around the area. Jackie couldn’t resist making a few adjustments. Bees, like the one in the convolvulus in the last picture, were still very busy.
This evening we dined on a Margarita pizza embellished by Jackie with salami and cheese; and fresh salad.
Have you still had no rain? I hope you have had some. We had none for a few weeks but had two or three good days of it this weekend. Had a bit of trouble with lightning but survived.
None for weeks, Donnalee. Thanks very much.
Oh no–I do wish you good rain now.
Thanks again
Water, so welcome on a hot day! Animals have an inherent wisdom, and it’s so amazing to watch them do what comes naturally. And you and Jackie too, knowing to gravitate to the garden, where beauty and beverage abound!
Thank you very much, Diane
Beautiful shots of the lawn area Derrick and I just love that the duck was walking correctly! <3
Many thanks, Pauline x
What a beautiful place to quench your thirst! Love you photographs!
Thanks very much, Gael
For some reason I clicked on the photo of the bench area (view-from-grass-patch-to-westbrook-arbour-by-jackie) before I read the whole post, and I was sure I was looking at a professional garden you had visited on your travels. Just a stunning shot and garden area. How is it that I have followed you for so long and do not yet recognize every inch of your garden?
I/we keep trying different angles 🙂 Thanks very much, Jodie. In all seriousness, the Westbrook Arbour was still a tangled mess last year.
Quite stunning, now. Bravo !
🙂
…heads, shoulders, heels, and toes… heels and toes! Haha!! You’re so funny. Remember to waddle well, my friend!
Many thanks, Rose 🙂
Viewing your photos always lowers my blood pressure, Derrick. 🙂 What? No adult beverage this evening?
I forgot to mention Hoegaarden and Doom Bar 🙂 Thanks for drawing my attention to that aberration, Jill
Lovely country scenery Derrick. it is always a joy to see your photos.
Many thanks, Arlene
One of the pictures reminds me of my village in the backwaters of the country, except that they have felled down some of the trees resulting in ugly clearings. Enjoy your drinks!
Thanks very much, Uma. Sorry about your trees
Good morning Derrick!! Yesterday i left my office at 8 o’clock in the afternoon and as i was waiting for the bus … i looked to the view opposite…. trying to find something special to photograph….
But here in this place there are not beautiful forests…. horses, trees, flowers… as in your place…. xaxaxa..
I said to myself wait until tommorow … you will see Derrick’s beauties!!!!!!!!!!!!
Very many thanks, Efi. Much appreciated
It is so much fun photographing photographers 🙂
Your garden is lovely as usual.
Thanks a lot, Rupali. It is, indeed, fun 🙂
Nothing better than water…especially on a hot day! It just tastes so good to me!
Your photos remind us, in a very beautiful way, how important water its…to sustain life, to quench thirst, to enjoy…it can be healing to mind, body, heart and soul!
HUGS!!! 🙂
Thanks very much, Carolyn X
I do hope you get some steady rain soon. Your comment and photo of the duck made me laugh.
Your garden is lovely, inviting space to have drinks.
Thanks very much, Merril
I sure didn’t have to ask about the animals today, eh, Derrick? That’s for finding this place!
You prompted the post GP. Many thanks
I had a feeling, but didn’t want to be presumptuous. Thank you.
🙂 Strangely enough, yesterday there was not a pony in sight.
You made me smile with your comments about the duck’s technique, Derrick. I hope you watched closely and took notes! 🙂
🙂 Many thanks, Sandra
So glad the animals have a place to drink. In our backyard, there are two places for animals. The birdbath and our new little fountain in the garden. Just yesterday, while we were having our drinks on the patio, a little chipmunk took a drink from the fountain. Very cute, but unfortunately we didn’t have a camera to record the event.
Amazing captures Derrick ☀️ may nature find her balance soon!
Many thanks, Val
We had a dry July here in Toronto compared to last years.❤️