Well it is as I write....
Spring is here, we have had a nice sunny week end, a warm week, a nice walk along the river, a bit of a sun tan. That was last week, so it’s the south of England the week end and it’s bound to be raining. Actually, last week there was ne’r a cloud in the sky: no high cirrus, no veil of opaque water vapour streamed from passing airliners. We don't get really clear skies any more. The contamination makes the naturally pure blue heaven a much more incipid lighter shade of pale grey blue. The sun gave a quicker tan last week I'm sure. The nights last week were certainly colder and the global government conspiracy theorists misted a trick. The last time the meteorologist had the data from this sort of experiment: (grounding all planes) was 9/11. Then the range between day and night temperatures increased by
about 3 degrees across the USA. Last week, here the nights were noticeably colder and the sky noticeably bluer. Still no ‘wacko’ has suggested that scientists chose ‘over react’ to the volcanic ash and ground planes unnecessarily so that further measurements of
the effects of aviation on global warming could be made....
The forecast suggested that there might be rain. The meteorological models were bound to be off after last week, but to be on the safe side, the first walk of the year towards the source of the Thames started with me wearing a waterproof jacket. There were noticeably more blooms than the last walk towards the source.
I was reminded of
Nordrhein-Westfalen where I worked for several years. Immediately before Easter the land was muddy brown, the forest thin and bare of leaves. Post Easter, it seemed instantly the grass sprouted, the trees unfurled their leaves and the countryside transformed. England is always far greener even in the depths of winter.
The river birds were exploring territories for nests.
A coxed pair made its way up stream.
The
River and Rowing museum hid behind freshly foliated trees.
The narrow boats were out.
And so were the Gin palaces
The stands and enclosures for the
regatta are well under construction.
Piles are being driven into the river bed for the course. We are not quite sure if it’s the left hand or the right hand side where the piles are being driven with the greatest force...
The
riverside pub gardens served more than just a few hardy souls.
The more venturous imbibed further downstream.
Enjoying the views of chocolate box house and fresh greens of spring.
Temple Island has started performing its
summer functions.
Temple lock is flowering up nicely
Even though the weir is still flowing at a fair rate.
Such are the peaceful joys of a riverside walk... and the Daily Mail has
printed and article in agreement. Actually there must be some mistake because the article is positive and upbeat. Clearly why it stood out!
Ah well, legs stretched, mind calmed, back to writing
temp agency and staff bank software
