We took a morning drive into the forest,
through Holmsley Passage where low gravel strips border the crumbling tarmac, a woman follows her dog , and unconcerned ponies continue with the important business of the day,
In order for me to photograph Ringwood Road, Burley, Jackie parked the car at the junction with
Honey Lane.
A number of lanes in the New Forest. This one is an example. It leads to Highwood and comes to a dead end.
A brook runs roughly alongside the wandering, undulating, track. As I stood watching the sun’s rays casting shadows on the reflecting waters I noticed floating, swooping, midges flashing in the beams.
Just a minute. Midges? Surely not in 12 degrees centigrade?
Well, no.
Closer inspection revealed Lilliputian parachutists seeking a safe landing after being prised from their perforated perch –
or seeds from a dandelion clock.
The dwellings along this lane are beautiful houses with a quantity of land generally accommodating a horse or two.
On our return journey, at South Gorley, we had the opportunity for a staring match with ponies laying claim to the road.
Back at home I noticed that a pink climbing rose is mingling with potted pansies in the porch.
Elizabeth joined us for dinner. Jackie produced beef roasted long and low; roast potatoes, including sweet ones, and parsnips; crisp carrots, cauliflower and broccoli; and tender runner beans with tasty gravy, followed by apple crumble and custard. My sister and I finished the Merlot Bonarda and Jackie drank Hoegaarden.