The calm after the storm

Last night we were battered beyond belief by strong winds and rain, so when I (eventually) got up this morning, everywhere looked pretty sorry for itself. Mr V had worked until 2am, so after some deliberation me and Topper dog decided to brave the elements and do the 3 mile round walk to the harbour and back.
Within minutes I regretted the decision as the sky grew greyer and icy cold rain pounded down on us. But Topper dog seemed up for it, so, soaked before we'd really got started, off we went.
And I'm so glad we did. The rain soon disappeared and the sun broke through the clouds, reflecting beautifully off the sand of the low tide, giving it a soft golden glow. But the wind! My ears felt like ice blocks, but it was such a lovely morning the view more than made up for it. It certainly blew the cobwebs away!
This was my favourite pic of the day - it just seemed to embody all the elements of the walk. The estuary, the sand, the views in the background, and my beloved Topper dog. Who no doubt was thinking 'hurry up mum, I'm ready to go home for a gravy bone'.