Where did the summer go?

One lazy day on Shell Bay in summer

Where DID the summer go?

Normally at this point in the year, we are remembering the long hot slog at work during the months of heat, rain, logistical problems and difficult people. It seems to have just come and gone without a trace this time, and many others in the industry have been feeling the same.

Once again Autumn is upon us. Every year I provide a laugh to Amanda and Rebecca by stating that the leaves on the trees are dropping early, and that all of the heavy leaf clearing, an enormous task that can go on for two months or more, will in fact be over well before Christmas. This year they have conceded and agree with me.

The long dry summer has caused havoc in the plant world. Root systems of even the biggest plants have been damaged through lack of water, and leaves everywhere are indeed coming down in droves already.

A cliff top garden in Highcliffe during summer

In what brief respites we manage to get, there has been some river kayaking, where it's been quite cold, but fun to explore some local rivers a little more intimately (Thanks Mike for the tip about Iford!)

I have been able to finally start making things from the sea glass and tiles found throughout the years beach combing. 

Long, windy walks along the sea front and beaches, with tea and coffee.

And the occasional light lunch during antique wine glass hunting in Southbourne and Boscombe.

We have a couple of very powerful knapsack blowers, and a couple of smaller blowers at the ready........Autumn....here we come!