Himalayan balsam

Neil had a day off today so he asked me if I wanted to go for a walk with him.  I took Rachael's birthday gifts and card with me.  He met me at the bus stop near Lidl, we did some shopping then walked to his house to drop it off. 

Then we set off to walk along the Derwent Walk.  Its an old railway line that runs alongside the River Derwent.  The weather was chilly but bright and sunny.  We saw lots of dog walkers while we were out.

We came back along a different route and saw Oaklands Garden Centre/Farm Shop. The sign said it was " Under New Management". Neither of us had been there before so we had a look inside.  It was a great place.  The produce looked fresh and of good quality. I didn't really need anything today so I just grabbed a few carrots. ( didn't like to leave empty handed )  When I got to the till the lady said I could have the carrots for free.  Well I wasn't expecting that.  I guess she hopes I will mention the place to family/friends and they might pay a visit. 

I have a added a collage of shots I took while we were out.

When we got back to Neil's he cooked us some salmon for a late lunch which we had with salad.  We chatted and watched some TV.  Then around 5.15pm Neil got a message that Rachael wanted to meet up with him at The Metrocentre.  So that was my cue to leave and get the bus home.

I took my blip shot near the river.  After checking on my PlantNet app I think this flower is Himalayan Balsam ( Impatiens glandulifera ) a relative of the Busy Lizzie.  Apparently its a major weed problem -  especially on riverbanks and waste land as it t grows rapidly and spreads quickly smothering other vegetation as it goes.  Thanks to BikerBear for hosting Flower Friday.

As its pink I have also tagged my flower for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Steps today - 13,907