BARREN DOWN BECKONS!

Still grey and quite chilly this morning, but at least it was dry!  We went up to Barren Down to see what it was like now, as we haven't been there for a few weeks. We saw that everything had grown like mad and there was an abundance of wild flowers and grasses.  There was wonderful stillness up there, as usual, and it seemed to have its own little microclimate as it was warmer...

When we walk on familiar territory, it is great to see changes as the seasons progress.  This is particularly true of people's front gardens, which really are quite public spaces and some are beautifully cared for.  We have our favourites - some shown below - which are full of quirky items and beautiful flowers.  So many front gardens these days have been given over to car parking, and in some areas this has become a real problem, as there is little earth to absorb rain, so it runs off and can contribute to flooding!

Our route took us past Shepton market, which was being set up. We were out too early to see much, so I went back later in the morning and took the photos below.  It was looking very festive with bunting and more and more stall holders joining.  My friend, Dawn, owner of Custard Pudding (art gallery and tea room), has added extra colour by selling cut flowers (see top left pic below), which mostly came from her own garden.  She is in the process of setting up a flower growing and selling business.  I am doing some artwork for a sign and will tell you more in future posts. It is encouraging that new businesses are opening up in Shepton...