Rocks, Rambling, and Red Hot Weather

Last Saturday we got up very early 5 am. As I looked out of my kitchen window through the trees I saw an orange orb, the sun beginning to rise.

An  orange sunrise

We arrived at 7am to walk in the Langdales in the Lake District to climb up Bowfell and Esk Pike 1,000 metres and a 14 km. walk over rocky terrain.

When we set off the sheep and lambs in the field next to the car park were still asleep.

Herdwick sheep still asleep

The view at the start of the walk looking towards 'The Band'.

Only 14 kilometre to go

The day started off warm but as we started to climb we got into atmospheric mist that floated and swirled above our heads. 

Mysterious mist

The rock formations were amazing. Huge great big chunks of rock all angular and often built up in layers.

Chunks of rock

Some rocks contained seams of marble.

Seams of marble

This little burn had rusty iron ore shining through the water.

Rusty looking iron ore

Some rocks contained small holes at random intervals on the rock surface.

What has made these holes?

There were a lot of wonderful lichens of different colours decorating the rocks.

Orange coloured lichens

Yellow coloured lichens

Can you see the whale within this rock formation?

Spot the whale

When we actually reached the summit it was thick fog and we had to climb over a rock floor of large slabs of rock.

Rock on

Coming down from the summit we arrived at Angle Tarn, dark mysterious water.

The dark waters of Angle Tarn

This is the view of the hills from part of the Cumbrian Way which we walked on our return trip.

Along the Cumbrian Way

Cotton grass swaying in the valley.

Delicate tuffs of white cotton grass

These chimney pots are unique to the Lake District they make something functional very interesting.

How many chimney pots can you see?

A delicate poppy that only lasts for a day.

So dainty and fragile

This week the weather has been extremely hot. Most of the flowers have survived but the soil is getting very dry. It it lovely to have proper summer weather which we have not had for several years.
The clematis are all in full flower, such striking colours.

Situated at the entrance to the Artful Garden

Situated on the farm wall

This is my first crop of new potatoes. The variety is Epicure and they boiled very well and retained their shape.

Delicious

Back at home Hay Baby has returned from the Hay Barn Health farm and she is looking very summery in her new outfit.

Hay Baby enjoying the flowers

I have heard that Lotta Bottle has been to a jewelry party and is now flashing a gaudy set of earrings, she will do anything to attract attention.

What are you like

Charlie Barley has seen the physio and his neck problem is now resolved.

Charlie Barley- how many chickens can you see and is that a skeleton?