Wildlife in February

As we only managed to be at home for about 9 days this month, we have probably (hopefully) had visitors that haven't made it onto the list. This is what we did see when we were here though:

Starlings
Blackbirds
Dunnock
Sparrows
Chaffinches
Blue Tits
Great Tits
Coal Tits
Siskin
Green Finch
Robin
Collared Doves
Gold Finches
Nuthatch
Long Tailed Tits
Great Spotted Woodpecker
Stock Doves
Bull Finch (male - just once)

****MOST EXCITING OF ALL****

While we were away, our lovely neighbour who was keeping the bird feeders topped up, saw a red Squirrel on our bird table! YIPEE!!

The Other Men in my life.

First thing on Saturday 21st we left the borders and headed down to Lincolnshire - via home for a quick change of luggage.
Arriving at our 'home' for the next 10 days; house sitting for friends who were off skiing in the morning. Little did they realise that we were bringing ideal skiing conditions with us. As they headed to Stanstead airport on Sunday morning, we were treated to another home from home outlook.

The main reason for us house sitting was so that I could indulge in the other men in my life. Bungle and Ferdy (seen in the snow in the picture above).
They are both absolutely gorgeous, but if I'm honest; Bungle and I have a bit of a special relationship!

Meet Bungle.....

Three months after having left the area, this was a great opportunity to catch up with family and friend. But first, Bungle and I had chance to get re-acquainted.

It was wonderful to be riding again, but I don't think Ferdy was so pleased to be left behind!

The great thing about looking after the boys this time (as opposed to when we lived just down the road from them), was being there day and night and being able to tuck them up last thing at night. There is something about a horse asleep that melts your heart.

Bungle wakes up as he hears me at the door.

Ferdy is the softy of the two of them. Whilst Bungle will jump up as soon as he realises you are there, Ferdy is more than happy for you to cuddle up with him for as long as you like. Yes. I did!

North of the Border

February has been a busy month. From 10th to 20th we have been up in Scotland to house; horse (4); dog (3) and Guinea Pig (1) sit for our friends on their farm in the Borders.

Home from home? The sun sets over the cattle sheds on our first evening.

Spaniels galore as Hattie settles down with Nip and Tug. Two of her companions for the time being.

'I love my dad' Tug snuggles up with his dad, Nip (nearest to the fire).

Four happy hounds. Nip (with the Cracker), Tug, Harry - in a rare moment of good humour - and Hattie get cosy by the Aga.


Some of Richards 800 ewes watch as we walk the dogs at the top farm. The Cheviots have a blanket of snow in the distance.

One of Richards many sheds of beef cattle at the home farm.

Spirit and Gabby - two of the four horses we are in charge of.....

What a lovely boy! Nip is very proud of his ball, and he's doing his best to make sure no-one else gets it.


Next stop; Lincolnshire................

Best Made Plans

The forecast last night was for cloudy, rainy and generally mucky weather. A perfect day to make curtains and watch the opening match of the RBS Six Nations. When we woke to a frost and clear blue skies, we did exactly what we moved here to do. We decided to change our plans and have a walk, so long as we were back in time for kick off!
Carrock Fell has long been one of our favourite weekend fells, because it is in one of the relatively undiscovered corners of the lakes. It is now one of our closest fells, just a few minutes drive and we are there, unless of course it's rush hour, Cumbrian style .............
The views of the fells open up as you reach higher ground

Hattie and Mrs B on the summit of Carrock Fell.

Snow topped Skiddaw from the summit

All that and we're not even on holiday;-)

This is why

68 Days and finally we made it. Our first 'proper' walk as a Cumbrian family! Something fairly gentle was required for Hatties sake (mainly) and something not too high and snowy as we are not into using Crampons and Ice axe.
Souther Fell fits the bill, with it's proximity to Blencathra, the views are pretty impressive. Also, not forgetting the fact, that it is just 'over the hill' from home!! Blencathra comes into view..

Wrapped up against the cold.