First Fruit

We were not sure when apricots ripen. It fell off the tree; I guess that's a sign. Luckily, MrsM found it before any of the garden wildlife, so it could be added to the gift from her brother, and served for lunch - shared with... [whatever is the term for your son's partner's parents] let's say 'friends'

We swapped Scottish island stories - they are much more experienced than us - whetting our appetite for journeys not yet taken, spectacular coastlines, rugged glens, eagles and dolphins. Then we walked together - up, out of the valley an in an arc, around to its head. Last night's rain has cleared the air; the distant views - north into Warwickshire, south east to the Chilterns - may not be Scotland but they were uplifting. Butterflies have left it late, but speckled wood and gatekeeper were out in reassuring numbers

A ripe apricot is a wake-up call. Not having bees in the orchard, we have not visited as often. Might the plums be ready? How far from harvest are the early apples? Is autumn bearing down upon us? What a strange, muddled-up year it has been