Trees on Tuesday

Two outings in two days!  Yeah, it was good to get out again today.  Rain was forecast for today...originally it was snow, but then it changed to rain, but this morning was nice so we took the opportunity while we could.   This time we walked from home and didn't have to drive to get to the park which is only just over a mile away.

There were plenty of trees to scramble over and up.

Today I discovered my coat was reversible so thought it would be fun to wear it with the other side showing.

I'm also wearing my new jeans that Mum made this morning, but you can't really see them.  

I find some snowdrops by one of the small ponds.

Standing on one of the big rhododendrons.  These look fabulous in the spring when they are in flower.

The lakes were partially frozen, so not much to see really.

The sun was out a little bit though as you can see my shadow.

All in all another pleasant morning out.  

A Walk in the Park

The sun was shining brightly, the sky was blue, such a beautiful morning that we decided to go for a walk in a park near to us.  We did have to drive to it unfortunately, and were reminded about how long it can take a relatively short distance because of traffic and various road works!  But it was worth it.  So although I am not on 'holiday' it almost felt like I was.

Fallen logs to walk along

Leafy paths to roam.

I wonder what I shall see round the next corner.

Some pretty flowers.

Hellebores I believe.

The little canal is running well and there was even a little waterfall.

I remember when I played pooh sticks with Lottie when she came to stay, a number of years ago now.

I stare out across the lake

the blue sky reflecting in the lake which looked extra blue.

Soaking up the sunshine

Such as you do.

Before too long we had to set off back home though as the car was needed.

A really lovely morning though, and so good to get out in it.

Rochester Castle & Rochester Town

Today we took a trip to Rochester Castle.  It didn't take us too long to get there and it was a lovely sunny and warm day.

I can't wait until we get inside so I can explore!

Gosh do we get to go all the way up there?

Lots of steps to climb and we get to stop on each level which is good.

Looking out to the Cathedral.

Looks like there are bars on this window...which is probably just as well as I wouldn't want to fall out!

Reading all about the history of the castle.

There were several groups of school children also visiting the castle today.  In fact the group of boys were very well behaved and polite - more polite in fact than some ladies we encountered in the castle!

View out to the Cathedral, but a bit hard to see in this photo.

There were lots of different levels 

Each level had an information board that told us about what would have been there.

It was quite interesting.

We are quite a long way up now...and it is a long way down...

But we still have further to climb!

This looks odd?

A board explains the half window.

Walking along, it is very atmospheric.

Not much further...

We are at the top, with fabulous views all around.

Soon we have to go back down again..

Almost down, looking back up.

This was the area where the kitchens were, but the placard was blocked off so I could see quite what it said.

Looking back the castle after our visit.

We decide to have a walk around Rochester

Look at the wall!  It was very lopsided.

We had lunch in this very nice cafe in their back courtyard with the scent of jasmine blossom.

A green letter box!

The big people enjoyed walking round the various antique, vintage, charity shops and book shops.  

The day was finished with Strawberry Crepes and cream!