Spring Time, Unwanted Wildlife, Sunshine and Fish and Chips

The lambs are a delight in the surrounding fields and the hedgerows and trees are alive with blossom everywhere. Orange tipped butterflies have been spotted and the woodpecker is back. What a welcome sight, we haven’t seen him since the very cold spell back in Nov/Dec. Now he is visiting the bird tables regularly and you can hear him hammering in the trees nearby. We are also seeing some sort of large bird of prey but not sure what it is. Quite large, much, much bigger than a kestrel. We have heard there is a buzzard on the Raf Leeming site so assume this is what it is. Of course never have the binoculars to hand when needed.

ITV The Dales continues to be well worth watching on a Monday evening showing the Wensleydale Railway, and Bolton Castle, Leyburn and lots more. You can watch episodes by going to http://www.itv.com/itvplayer/

Ian is busy keeping on top of the grass cutting, strimming etc. everything seems to be growing by the minute. The hedges and shrubs are down for a trim next week.

We are having a battle with dandelions and moles. A weed and feed solution has been sprinkled on the lawn with a promise of a dramatic recovery in 7 days. Mole traps have been tried. Also a tube that vibrates and even moth balls, all without success but we won’t give up just yet. All tips are welcome.

What fantastic weather we have had over Easter, though we did have a ride over to Filey for fish and chips on Good Friday and you could not see the sea for the fog. Glad to get back home to the sunshine.

We had a lovely walk from Reeth over the swing bridge and round to Grinton which took about an hour. We resisted the temptation for a pint at the Bridge Inn but did enjoy an ice-cream on the green and had a wander around the quirky shops. Reeth is a beautiful village in the heart of Swaledale set around a large village green with lots of walks and a place to hire bikes. Somewhere we visit often, the journey over the moors from Leyburn is wonderful and the grouse are easy to spot.

Royal wedding fever is setting in. With 3 changeovers I hope we can get started earlier to time it right to watch the TV for the big event. The local pub is putting on a garden party with entertainment all afternoon and evening.

Well at least it’s an excuse to have a good time and an extra long Bank Holiday weekend.