Walking in Hawkridge, Ley Hill and Dunkery

Julie and Helen from Stroud have been to stay with us for the week for bed and breakfast. They are really good fun and always ready for a laugh. Julie is a very good photographer and both are keen birdwatchers. They have had a great time with plenty of walks including Hawkridge, Ley Hill, Dunkery, Cloutsham and Horner and seeing many different birds (unfortunately the Pied Flycathcher eluded them this time)!

It was fortunate that they came when they did as Derek has bought a rather nice camera. Needless to say, Julie spent allot of time showing Derek how to use it and how to get the best shots - hence the instructions are still in the box (we are waiting for our 3 year old niece to arrive so that she can show us how to download the pictures onto the blog)!I feel that there was a little bit of competition between the 2 of them especially when it came to who took the best photo of the Pipit!

Ron has also been up and he has gone for long walks each day on the hills just behind us - walking nearly to Dunster. Today he came across 3 deer which were almost black so he isn't sure what type they were unless they were a cross breed. The views from up the top are stunning as you can look over Minehead and right across the Channel to Wales and on the other side, the scene stretches across to Putham, Cutcombe and Croyden Hill and beyond.

I spent a very happy afternoon in Wiviliscombe this week - wandering around The Court House with its collection of furniture, fabrics and gifts. The contents are unusual and its a wonderful place to pick up something for the house or for a present. My next stop was Yew Tree Antiques - 3 floors of beautiful restored furniture and all very reasonably priced. I don't think I have ever visited there without bringing something home (this time it was 2 tables, a mirror and a lovely china bowl)!Nigel and Shelia are very friendly so its usually an opportunity for a chat and a mug of tea as well. Next onto Carousel Pig - lovely gift shop that again sells unusual things and the most beautiful pot pouri. 2 pictures, 2 pot pouri and a vase later - I felt it was time to return home before any more money was spent.