23rd September from the West Cliff Green, Bournemouth

Rain, rain rain. It ceases as the day light increases. A grey drizzly dawn. Water dripping from every surface. But then, despite the forecast, the sun struggles out from behind the streaky grey clouds and dry patches begin to appear on the paths. Faint shadows accompany the walkers. One or two bright puddles dance across the wrinkling sea. The breeze sings in the tree tops. Some flowering plants are attempting to make up for the summer drought. There is honeysuckle and a second crop of blackberries swelling nicely.

From 23rd September 2021

Another middling sort of day. Still warm but stern grey cloud cover and a steady breeze with occasional smattering of rain. The sea is fidgety and pecks at the virtually empty sands. And adult and juvenile woodpigeonn sat side by side on a branch unmoving, surveying the scene. Another pigeon half heartedly mobs a kestrel..Last night a tawny owl flew right by my window hooting as it went.

From 23rd September 2019

We are beset by the proverbial equinoctial gales. The trees, still carrying their full burden of summer foliage, groan and thrash like tethered dancing bears. A fine mist slants across the street lights but it is not rain now but a fine sea spray blown up and over the cliffs from the raging torment below.