I went on a tour at Brancepeth Castle this afternoon, a medieval castle with a rich history, and one of the 13 castles in County Durham.

 A puddle reflection on our walk this morning.

 The view from my desk in the attic was like a painting this evening.

 200 years ago the Locomotion No.1 with 3 coal trucks and the Experiment carriage for passengers made the first passenger journey in the world across this bridge. Skerne Bridge in Darlington is the world’s oldest railway bridge in continuous use. It was wonderful to be part of the celebrations, and see the same scene from 200 years ago reenacted today.

 This is a replica of George and Robert Stephenson’s Locomotion No.1, traveling the same route as 200 years ago, when it was the world’s first railway using a steam engine to carry passengers and freight. What a privilege to see this famous engine on this equally famous railway. And that’s Prince Edward at the back giving me a wave as he passed!

 While out collecting berries for my Hedgerow Jelly, I came across a herd of Dartmoor Ponies. Strange to see them up here, but they were in wonderful condition and quite friendly.

 Mr Blue Skye sitting in the sun, while Tricksie Treat watches me from her chair.

 Outside B&Q were these monstrosities. I couldn’t believe beautiful living heathers had been dyed artificial colors. Needless to say I gave them a wide berth.

 While on a foraging workshop, we spotted an unusual fungus on a tree, known as King Alfred’s Cake. King Alfred lived in the 9th century when parts of Britain had been overrun by Vikings. Trying to escape them, he took refuge in the home of a peasant woman who asked him to watch over her cakes, baking by the fire. He let them burn and was scolded by the woman for his negligence. It is said that embarrassed and ashamed, he scattered the cakes to get rid of the evidence. As the fungus looks like small, burnt cakes, especially as they get older, the name King Alfred’s cakes went into common use.

 I’ve seen this scene a few times and wanted to photograph it. Today, I sat on the side of the road and waited for the farmer to turn around in the field, and be immediately followed by a flock of seagulls.

Friday, September 19, 2025

 I spent over 2.5 hours yesterday taking advantage of this mast year, and picked over 7lbs of hawthorn berries. I’ve made 2L of hawthorn berry brandy, and started a gallon of hawthorn berry wine, both should be ready by Christmas.

 I’m loving sitting at my desk, with the computer and monitors finally set up, and the rain lashing down on one of the windows directly in front of me. We badly need it so no complaints from me, and I’m enjoying the sound of raindrops splashing all around me on the glass windows with occasional thunder rumbling in the distance.

 It shocked me to see this in a Sunderland bus stop. I also realized I hadn’t seen any homeless people since I moved to the north east, yet there had been many in Virginia…

 A fun day in Durham with Greg. Durham Castle looms over us as we walk into the city.

 Some of the ladies on today’s walk. Steep hills and just over 6 miles, it was a splendid walk.

 I never tire of these magnificent upright firs in Hamsterley Forest. 10 minutes into our walk it poured for the rest of the way. But we did have coffee and home made ginger biscuits when we got back.

 Back to the pictures again, this time to watch The Long Walk, a Stephen King film. It was done well, but was very depressing, so it was nice to get back to the foyer again. I love the decor, it’s almost futuristic.

Saturday, September 13, 2025

 Watching the finale of Downton Abbey. I’m so sad this has ended, it’s been a beautiful saga.

Friday, September 12, 2025

 I went on a tour of a POW camp, used during WW2, and only half an hour from home. Harperley was built by Italians and housed Germans. English Heritage are helping to protect it.

 I took my friend Karin around Ushaw Historic House after our walk, and showed her this glorious chapel.

 A wonderfully varied collection of chimney pots in Corbridge.

 A day out with Greg in Richmond. This is looking across to the castle ruins from a back cobbled street.

 Another great walk in Hamsterley Forest, a lot of hills this morning. 

 A farmer was selling vegetables at the market in Sedgefield today, and I couldn’t believe my luck when I bought his last stalk of brussels. Although I love brussels, the real prize for me was the leaves on top; I haven’t had those for about 35 years. I never saw them once in America. 

 Had a superb 5.5 mile walk with this bunch today. Steps and hills, plenty of wild fruit, then posing here with The Willow Man, before finishing with a pot of tea at Causey Arch.

 I explored another nature reserve close to home today and discovered thickets of sloe berries. I’ve already begun a batch of sloe gin, but will come here next year for my berries.

 Apparently one of Robson Green’s favourite views of Langley Park. The Silly Steps, as they’re known locally are to the left. We trotted down those to the village, but of course had to climb the hill later to get back to Ushaw.

 

 The lounge is coming together. Just need a mantle mirror and some curtains, then I’ll be happy with it.

 A road less traveled. I love the many narrow back lanes around here.

 It’s blurred, but I love the moment. Me and Mr Blue Skye hanging out.