Take a moment- enjoy the moment

Today is bright, still and calm. A tonic after weeks of blistering winds, heavy rain and gloomy days. The stillness is blissful but feels like the calm before the storm. Even so I am enjoying the serenity.

Winter is definitely firmly present as there is a chill in the air, the trees are still baring their brown branches and the grass is the yellowing green that provides little if any nutrients for grazing animals.

A rich sweet smell fills my nostrils and looking over a wall I see a huddle of silently ruminating sheep enjoying the luxurious hay bale their farmer has kindly left for them. I pause a moment to watch the rustic scene with pleasure.

There is always one sheep that is more adventurous than the rest. Sure enough whilst others delicately nibble the edges allowing room to share, one clambers on top to get as much hay as possible. Its warm breath sends clouds of steam into the air where it hangs silently in the still afternoon.

Suddenly, as though aware I am watching two white noses turn to look at me. Their dark eyes suggesting I am intruding. Taking the hint I turn and leave the peaceful winter scene behind and carry on my way.