Then came the rain

That squall out over the sea didn't reach us but another one soon did.

The Isle of Wight

From the Boss: Yesterday afternoon started out bright and sunny and for the first time in months I could see the Isle of Wight from the ramparts of the Roman camp - that's a bit over 50 miles away. It's in the photo. The eagle-eyed will just manage to see a smudge on the horizon immediately above the power station chimney in the middle of the shot. That's the island. It will be easier to see if you click on the picture to enlarge it.

Playmates

I got lucky when we went to the Roman camp the other afternoon: I found some children who were happy to play ball with me.

Back to more of the same

Yes, it's back to the damp greyness of mist and murk today. It seems hardly possible that yesterday was warm and sunny. The sun brought out the thousands of crocuses in the garden - quite literally thousands. They are the result of scattering a hundred or so naturalising crocus bulbs several years ago. This clump beside the front door are the common or garden sort.

Travellers?

Call themselves travellers? These "travellers" haven't moved from this corner beside 39 Acres for at least four months.

Varley Halls

Facing south and sheltered by Stanmer woods are the Varley Halls of Residence, accommodation for students at the University of Brighton, seen here from 39 Acres.

More cottages

One more glimpse of the traditional flint cottages before we leave the village.