Peaceful times

The time after Christmas and into the New Year is always so quiet and relaxing and I guess it is even more so this year as I still have my finger in a splint following the surgery in November. Thankfully it is healing well and I can do most things, sometimes a little slower - like typing - but being on holidays is a great help.


Melbourne has been experiencing hot weather interspersed with cooler, refreshing days. If possible we spend the hot days at our cottage in the hills where the temperature is much lower. Last week we took our bikes and I bravely mounted my cycle after being off it since September (ankle injury). I was fitter than expected and my darling and I enjoyed a number of rides around the beautiful countryside.


One place we like to visit is an arboretum on the site of an old primary school. All that remains of former days is the cricket pitch and a toilet.


Opposite where the community hall used to be is a memorial to those of the district who fought in both world wars. It is a peaceful place.


The site is surrounded by farmland and currently the roadside plums are ripe and ready for picking. On one ride I loaded my pannier with the makings for another batch of jam.


The view from the cottage is as wonderful as always and I would love to capture an image of the myriad of stars in the clear night sky but maybe that would detract from its mystery and wonder.