We hadn't seen DD for over three months so decided yesterday to drive the 60 miles to the seaside town she lives. Usually it takes up to one and a half hours even in school holidays when the weather is hot. Yesterday it took over 3 hours which was ridiculous. We didn't even attempt to go to the beach which is about 2 miles from DD. Instead we went across to the lovely country park just opposite her home and sat in the shade under a tree and watched the kestrel hovering and diving. Then picked up fish and chips to eat on DD's patio.
Apparently we made the right decision as even little Frinton was packed. Even though Clacton can get busy especially near the pier, we have always been able to find a quiet spot on the beach. We used to go to Walton on Naze every year for a day in the school holidays. Again we had plenty of room on the beach. I was thinking why it is so busy now and suppose it is a combination of things. People still off work and kids off school and everybody fed up with being cooped up. Add to that no foreign holidays. It doesn't seem fair to the locals who are used to going to the beach all year round.
Today I had a walk down to the river later in the afternoon after my parcel was delivered. I was amazed to see about 30 people playing in and around the lock filled with water. They were mainly youngsters but there was a little family with a little lad about 5 years old and he was floating with his dad on an inflatable with no armbands on. I just hoped he could swim. It looked like they were having great fun cooling off on a hot day and it was very tempting but I just thought of all the dangers. I must be getting old. It is forbidden to swim in the river anyway although the youngsters always have done so.
The fields and the other parts of the river were peaceful and I saw house martins, swallows, duck and coot families and a solitary moorhen. Now there is a beautiful sky and the patio doors are still open. The temperature is just right.
It seems that as things open up, areas are getting more crowded and there is way more traffic on the roads.
ReplyDeleteGod bless.
Yes even locally there seems much more traffic.
DeleteSuch a dilemma now we are all being let loose soon. With children off school and people not at work everyone is looking for something to do and somewhere to go. Lockdown was far easier to negotiate than all the crowds. We are carfully and cautiuosly navigating our way through all this a bit at a time and as we feel it is safe to do so - and no matter what the government say we can do - we might be a while before we do it.
ReplyDeleteGlad you had a nice visit with DD.x
Yes I am being cautious too. Thank you it was good to see DD and better than sitting on a crowded beach.
DeleteAt the moment the ferries are only operating a lifeline service but I must admit I am dreading them opening everything up again. I think this is when we will get the crowds too. Take care and stay safe.
ReplyDeleteThank you. You too. People have gone mad.
DeleteIt sounds like they have let everyone out and they are all running amuck. Be careful out there and stay well!
ReplyDelete