Proud parents to be!

Today we visited th Norfilk Broads. Created during the Middle Ages as local people dug peat for fuel. During the 14th century the sea level rose, flooding these pits and forming the Broads.

My plan was to photograph one of the wherry boats.
These shallow hulled wooden craft, with huge sails, were used to transport goods such as corn,coal,chalk and mail, as well as passengers, throughout the Broads system.
There are only one or two left. However the one we went to see had already left on a day trip.

In the morning it was fine, and we had a lovely walk round How Hill wildlife trail,
and visited Toad Hole Cottage, an old eel- catchers house. Built between 1780 and 1820. Now a tiny museum.
We heard the first cuckoo, and saw a marsh harrier, as well as herons,chiff chaffs, and numerous other birds. A beautiful and peaceful place. Calm and tranquil. Beautiful bird song everywhere.

Then on to Ranworth Broad, which is owned and managed by the Norfolk Wildlife Trust.
We watched some wonderful old sailing boats come in, and that was going to be my blip, until we had a walk along another woodland trail, beside the water, and spotted these great crested grebes with an large egg in the nest. They were very busy extending the nest, and trying to cover the egg.
This is my best shot, which is a little out of focus as they were just too far away to get a clear photo. I loved the reflections too.
It was wonderful to watch them! I have never been so close to a nest before.

Back at the cottage and pouring down!
Just to get changed and then out for a meal tonight to a pub called The Hunny Bell, in the near by village of Hunworth. Not been before so hope it is as good as most places round here.

Unfortunately we are off back home tomorrow!