Blackthorn (and rhapsody in blue...)

The forecast was good so we decided to have a day out. More of an afternoon out really, as I had to go to the surgery for a blood test just before midday. And MrM had plans for the evening.

Straight after that we headed for Dearne Valley Old Moor Nature Reserve, an RSPB site near Barnsley. First a light lunch in the café before walking on the paths through the reed beds and wetlands. Absolutely glorious in bright sunshine with the blue sky reflecting in the water - it really was rhapsody in blue (extra)! Lots of different birds on the water, but the highlight of the afternoon was hearing the bittern's boom (though we couldn't spot the bittern).

Most of the birds were too distant for a decent photo, so the blackthorn blossom takes the honour for today's Blip.