Coincidentally, the longest day also proved to be the hottest of the year so far, peaking at 33.8°c!
We sat outside as the stifling heat began to ease and watched peacefully as the light falling upon the high, dappled clouds gradually transitioned from piercing white to a soft, luminous, lemon-yellow. Barely had we sat down, when the Red Kite graced the scene, cruising effortlessly along our hedgerow. This, the third show in a week, made us wonder if they have set up home nearby?
As we skygazed, a family of House Martins swirled in great arcs up high, hunting for insects. We rejoiced when John spotted our Linnets flying down to drink at our wildlife pond. They have been here since we first moved in. Our hearts were lifted by the sweet peeping calls of a flock of Long-tailed Tits drifting loosely across the garden shrubbery.
The balmy breeze slowly stilled as the evening progressed. I breathed out a slow sigh, feeling present in that very moment and at peace with the world on this, the longest day of the year.