We got ourselves out early for a walk the other day - ages, it seems, since we've been here. These used to be old gravel pits, but now, with cleared pathways and sweet-smelling wooden hides for watching the birds and the wildlife it's the best antidote to mere pavement-pounding we know.  As well as lots of new things, there are memories. Beneath a log: 'This is where we saw those tiny toads!'  By the old road bridge: 'Do you remember when everything flooded here one Easter?' And remembering the dreaded Foot and Mouth outbreak:  'Good to see the sheep are back in that field again...'

We saw a brilliant red butterfly, too, as a bonus! Must find out exactly what it was....