A Sunny Stroll, a Well Dressing, and a Near Miss with a Bull!

There is nothing quite like a quiet stroll across the open fields to stretch your legs. On today’s walk, the countryside offered its usual mix of peaceful views and unexpected little encounters.

​Heading out along the dry, grassy fields, I spotted a few cows grazing nearby. I’m usually a bit wary around livestock, but luckily, these cows were far more interested in getting a cool drink than mooooving anywhere near me! Further down the path, I bumped into two women walking their dogs. We stopped for a quick chat, and out of nowhere, one of them asked, "Have you seen the bull?" I replied, "Bull????" Truth is, as I mentioned before, I don’t like walking through a herd of cows, let alone sharing a field with a bull, especially after they described him as 'very muscular.' Then again, aren't they all? Thankfully, he wasn't out in this particular field today.

The walk leads right past a stone water trough in a stone alcove, complete with a beautifully arranged floral well dressing.

The well dressing tradition happens every year. A sign reminds passersby to "Give thanks for the gift of water and the beauty that surrounds you. Pray for peace in our world and for others to have the gift of water, food and shelter." We definitely need some peace in the world, that's for sure.

​Leaving the well dressing behind, I made my way toward the lake. The weather has been very dry lately, and the effects of the ongoing drought were obvious. The water level was low. I've never seen the exposed rocks before at the side of the lake where the ducks were sitting in the sun.

​A solitary gull sat perched on the metal railings, taking in the view.

​Despite the dry heat and the brief bull scare, it was a lovely morning's stroll.