Quiet Walks

On the surface, today’s wander along the cliffs was quiet and calm with just the sound of waves gently touching the rocks. There was a breeze floating through the trees but it barely rustled the leaves and certainly didn’t worry the Squirrels the birds. Every now and again the sound of a motor broke the stillness and a boat cut through the water leaving a scar that stayed visible far longer than the boat. When you become accustomed to the quiet you not only hear more but you also see more. Something deep inside, some age-old talent that becomes lost during a normal day, seems to awaken and helps to focus the mind. Not far from me, keeping an eye on everything that moved, was a Peregrine using senses similar to mine but so far advanced that I cannot even begin to imagine them. I watched her for a while and wondered what she could hear, what she could see and how her life differs from mine. It was hard to look away but the dogs became restless and so it was time to move on, but sometimes those extra quiet times on an extra quiet walk are pretty good.

Ups and Downs

As early morning walks go, my two favourites are the cliffs at Durlston on the south side of the Isle of Purbeck or The Downs that look over the town and the sea to the east. A tough choice as both have a lot to offer, but this morning The Downs won.

As soon as you enter the wide open green space above the bays the first thing that hits you is the view. Whatever the weather the views are incredible and this morning, with the haze of summer creating a wall around this place, it was magical.