Although I've managed a few short bikes during this latest UK lockdown, today was the first chance I've had to get out and enjoy a bit of scenery.
So, armed with my Olympus TG5 Tough camera off I went.
Once I'd headed inland away from the cool sea breeze the sun came out and it was a balmy 10 degrees or so.
I was just passing this driveway when I noticed a splash of white and discovered the first snowdrops I've seen this year.
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A mile or so on, I noticed some cattle. I reckoned the calf was perhaps only a day old, so I didn't want to disturb it (and Mum) by getting any closer.
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There's usually a fine display of colour along the drive of Lochturffin, but I was a bit early, with only these two clumps of crocus in flower.
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And as proof I was pedalling and not driving, I took advantage of a selfie opportunity.
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At Lochturffin, there's usually a lovely display of colour. Unfortunately I was too early, with only two clumps of crocus in flower.
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To prove I was pedalling and not driving, I took advantage of a selfie opportunity.
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On this western Atlantic coast, it's rare to find established trees, but this lane had some fine examples.
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Though look across the fields and you see what happens when some are exposed to the westerly winds.
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While others, like this Hawthorn, have an even tougher time surviving.
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The recent storms, with record levels of rain have left some field entrances rather "gloopy" thanks to the farm machinery.
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While others have fared better, like this one, where a new gatepost has replaced the rather more geological one.
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As I climbed higher the views opened out, where I noticed these sheep were enjoying the sunshine too.
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A bit further along is a farm, where the owners are a trifle eccentric and obsessive, so I was wary of actually stopping to take any photos.
However, as they were apparently filming me, I thought I'd capture them too.
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Turning around, I spotted these hens and admired the colours on the cockerel.
However, seeing the old knife embedded in the tree trunk, I don't fancy his chance of a long life!
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I'd planned to turn back for home from there, but decided to press on to the village, though I was pretty sure I wouldn't be able to get any supplies to keep me going.
It looks like I'd got there just after closing time.
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And even the village pub was closed due to the pandemic.
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There was nothing to do but carry on, and another ten miles brought me to the glimpse of home (I live just beyond the castle) and journey's end.
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Thanks for accompanying me on my latest escapade.
Let's hope it's not too long before we can all enjoy a bit more freedom.
