Wey Navigation Walk (Part 1)

Last weekend I spent a few hours wandering along The Wey Navigation towpath from Bowyers Lock to Send and back. This is part of a tranquil waterway and wildlife corridor running for nearly 20 miles through the heart of Surrey. It was  a bright but cloudy day and not much varied wildlife to be seen so much of my time was spent looking down...so here are a few reflective images starting with 'leaf fall' at Bowyers Lock.

And finally one of many male Mallards quitely patrolling the waterway.  FAB.

Last early am pre-work walk?

Last Thursday I made my last pre-work walk around part of the gardens at RHS Wisley with the moon still showing above the trees in the cold sky.

My first stop was at the rear of one of the model gardens as there appeared to be some avian activity nearby. In the trees high above came the rattling calls from two Mistle Thrushes, plus the 'kick..kick' call from a Great Spotted Woodpecker. These were soon joined by a Jay, Magpie, Starlings, Fieldfare and a small group of Greenfinches. Down at eye level a Robin briefly posed for me.

A Redwing dropped into a nearby tree but swiftly departed without partaking of the abundant fruits. (Not a brilliant shot but it will have to do until I can get closer.)

The signs of autumnal change were everywhere and as I headed for the Arboretum Goldfinches 'twittered' as they flew purposely overhead.

A view from the 'Fruit Mound' looking down the Piet Oudolf borders towards the Bi-Centenary Glasshouse. (Please follow this link to see what is inside this structure)

An attempt to capture a rainbow indicating that there is damp in the air.

In a recent post 'Hunt for Thrushes and Finches' I failed to get any photos of the recently arrived Fieldfare. I didn't fare much better on this visit but believe me the following shot is not leaves on this tree!

These are Fieldfare (I just need a bigger lens and a steadier hand!)

Other sightings included Blue, Great and Long Tailed Tits, Rose-ringed Parakeets, Woodpigeon, Crows, Jackdaws and this single Mute Swan circled overhead.

On the ground I was surprised to find some 'windfalls' as in recent years all the fallen fruit has been promptly cleared up in order to keep pathways tidy. Let's hope they stay there for the resident and winter migrant birds and the local mammal population to enjoy throughout the coming colder months.

Thanks for an interesting week.

Last Sunday I was directly involved in the secret mission to get Anita to Pennyhill Park Hotel for afternoon tea where her mum, dad, brother and two sisters plus a cousin with their other halves were waiting with a pre-birthday surprise.  As you can guess I was asked a few questions in the preceeding days and hours but had to respond with non commital answers with the exception of when asked what she should wear - not wellies!

As you can see from the above we were spoilt with lots of dainty sandwiches, scones with cream and jam followed by a super selection of cakes  AND plenty of cups of tea while a pianist played in the background. Anita's sister Wendy requested the traditional birthday song and everyone in the Ascot Bar joined in.

Last Thursday, Anita's biggest surprise was the increased number of personal e-mails from in her words "people I don't know". So my special THANKS go to these blogging friends who very kindly assisted me in springing this additional surprise:

Lynne - Hasty Brook The 'Monk' card had Anita in stitches!

Keith - holdingmoments

Kelly - Red and the Peanut

Heather - Heather of the Hills

Richard - At The Water who posted a very special Blue Jay 'Birthday Wishes' on his blog.

Roy - The Fendlandwalker who enclosed a special Bluebell greetings.

Tricia - Tricia's Tales  who also sent a very special Birthday Card.

Crista - Nature As Is

I have to admit to getting a bit of grief for posting a picture of Anita, without her prior permission, but that was soon forgotten once she read the lovely comments left by so many of my readers and was very much appreciated.

Last Friday was my last day physically on duty at work. It started, as expected, with a brief 'thank you and best wishes' speech from the boss....to which I responded without any tears followed by lots of cakes (including the obligatory chocolate selection) in the Tea, but soon to be renamed, 'Cake' Room. Most of my day passed in the usual way but with lots of hand-shakes and hugs. I am now 'on holiday' for three weeks until my contract actually ceases on 27th.

I will miss the many friends I have made over the past 13 years while working at the Wisley Plant Centre but it is now time to move on........a new chapter starts here.   FAB