Midsummer meanderings

... Of both a figurative and literal nature.

Despite the (slowly diminishing) chaos indoors, we've been unable to stay inside for very long in the evenings. The long days mean we go out for walks before Joe's bedtime and make the most of the sunshine. One of the reasons we were so keen to move back was the countryside around here and the countless footpaths which take you through it. You can go for a 20 minute stroll or, if you're feeling so inclined (and there are plenty of inclines in these parts) you can just keep going for hours.

Some evenings we wander up into the village.

Others we go out into the fields.

There are nearby tracks which take you through the trees - perfect when the sun's low in the sky and the light's twinkling and shifting down through them, illuminating little spots here and there.

Interestingly enough, I recently came across a list of words on Pinterest which have no English translations. One is komorebi; Japanese for the sunlight that filters through the leaves of trees.

Haymaking already. It's often wet and rainy in these here Pennines so they're quite literally making it while the sun shines.

In more domestic news, I've somehow managed to put up a washing line which goes from the back of the house, through the yard and across the little lane behind. It's a whopper. Three clothes props required.

I know I sound a bit like an anorak but I don't care. These are the things that make me happy.

We've joined the local library and already been to a few playgroups. People are very friendly and I've offered to help out at the one at the crumbling Methodist church up the road. It's run by some sweet little old ladies who dress up for the occasion and play the piano at the end of the session. Watching them do the 'hokey cokey' on their frail legs... it was almost too much!

I've got so many things to catch up on yet but the blissful midsummer sunshine has got me thinking that they can wait. All in good time - a little bit here and there and we're gradually getting organised.

Finally, thank you for all your good wishes over the past few weeks. I hope you're enjoying the summer and I'll be catching up on everyone's news from Blog land this week.

Sarah.