Although each season has its merits, and I look forward to them all, September is one of my favourite months for observing the turning of the season. Being fortunate enough to live in the countryside I become aware of the gradual changes. As yet, the leaves haven't changed colour - but the hedgerows are becoming full of wonderful things to admire and gather.
On the way back from the plot this morning, I stopped off at one or two places where I knew (or hoped) that there would be plenty of pickings. I wasn't disappointed.
I love seeing the elder bushes dripping with fruit. The hedgerows are studded with purple berries - making foragers of us all.
If you know where to look there are plenty of apples to be had.
The sloes are also ripening quite nicely - I know of some bushes where the sloes grow almost as big as damsons - unfortunately last year the council cut them back as they were threatening to grow too far on to the road. So maybe this year there won't be as many - I'll have to and check.
 |
| Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better Albert Einstein |
 |
| Elderberries Those who dwell among the beauties and mysteries of the earth are never alone or weary of life Rachel Carson |
 |
| I go to nature to be soothed and healed and to have mny senses put in order John Burroughs |
 |
| blackberries |
Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature.
It will never fail you.
Frank Lloyd Wright
Blackberries are eminently photographable aren't they - the greens, reds and purples of the berries make a great subject.
Who can resist blackberry-picking - whilst we were on holiday, early one morning, we saw two ladies doing just that behind the shore-line at Snettisham where there is a wild area. The blackberries were smaller than we see inland - but they do have a lot of rough weather to put up with. I will freeze those that I pick and wait till the Bramleys are ready - and make some blackberry and apple jam.
Or maybe I will collect some crab apples
 |
| Come forth into the light of things let nature be your teacher Wm. Wordsworth |
And finally, there are the rosehips
 |
| Happiness is looking out across fresh fields gazing at a distant tree feeling the sun on your back and the wind brushing your skin Anon. |
I am hoping to be able to collect enough rosehips to make some jelly this year - a kilo should be enough, but that requires a lot of picking. I drive slowly along the lanes when I am on a journey ready to slam on the brakes if I see some edibles calling out to be collected. When out walking I always have plastic bags in my pockets - just in case. You never know when you are going to come across a field of mushrooms or a stray plum tree.
It is definitely the best time of year for making the most of what nature has to offer.
0 Yorumlar