Devon country lane

One of my favourite walks today, along a sheltered road where we are out of the wind whatever the weather, which, today, was 'changeable'. Cool wind whisking big white puffy clouds along, bright sun, and short, light showers; deep blue sky and sea; high green banks dotted with white hedge parsley and purple foxgloves, birdsong - just everything!

Nearly posted a shot of the path ahead as it led downhill and epitomised 'deep country lane' - the green banks were so tall either side, and beyond us was more greenery embedding distant farm houses. But it was almost too green for a photo; better in real life.

Next, I almost chose bracken, all but silhoutted against the bright sky, but bracken is bracken is bracken, however beautiful. Meanwhile, my wild rose looked good enough for a birthday card ...

But, finally, have gone with this, as today has been all about lights and shades and strong contrasts. This has the narrow road twisting invitingly ahead; a five-bar gate (just love 'em!), typically English dry stone walls, old tree with a nice face in profile, and lots of leaves casting shadows in between the bright pools of sunlight. Thought it best summed up the joy of this particular place, so that you could walk along with me a little way. (Can you hear the pheasant?) Enjoy.