A brisk stroll brought me to the "Bench that overlooks the top resevoir" and there I sat, the richest man in Derbyshire (figuratively of course) surrounded by the Goyt in all her glory. I had been brooding over the day to come in the car but I swear that it is impossible to think black thoughts when you are under the influence of the Valley. She casts a spell that lasts so long as you are there.
What better way to start the day than watching a pair of Great Crested Grebes dive for fish. They are magnificent birds, graceful and effortless on the water. Okay a bit Heath Robinson in the air but you can't have everything.
And then just to round the morning off (It was about 7.00am by this time) the Short Eared Owl appeared just over the crest of the rise, hunting for food for its mate that hopefully is sitting on a clutch of eggs.
It was hard to tear myself away, to take off the walking boots and drive back the short distance, to put on full business suit and step out into the so called real world but I went to work with a song on my lips this morning. Great for me but a nasty surprise for anyone within hearing range.
