After getting back to the cottage Monday lunchtime, Garry went back to work and I joined him on his reservior checks. In the afternoon all three of us went sledging. It really was great fun! The plastic sled was a bit warped though which meant that despite my skill in steering, the sled consistently went off course to the right. Garry could control it well however (experience). Of course I have to include these pics :)
Me and Judith ready to go.

Some of the onlookers who got excited when we pulled up in the Landrover.

Garry (very excited to be out in the snow again) and Judith.

Off and away.


I have been for a few walks around the reservior too and it really is a beautiful area. I have really enjoyed hearing the crunch of snow and feeling the fresh air on my face. And, yes, walking around in temps between 1-3 degrees means that the breezes are very fresh. Lucky I'm not standing still out there. It has given me time to contemplate life and my travels. And (back to more immediate and entertaining concerns) I've spotted grouse and various types of tits, singing blackbirds and robins and I chased after a pheasant. Other critters include squirrels, rabbits, and of course sheep :)

This reservior system is one of the oldest in England, I believe, and incorporates 5 different dams. There is also a small hydroelectric plant. Currently the dams are quite full but due to some leaks they are having to let quite a bit of the water go, to keep the levels down until they fix the leaks. Apparently there aren't really any fish in these that require fish ladders (but there are perch and trout and a few others to keep the fishers interested). There is also a sailing club that runs in summer on one of the reserviors.
View across Valehouse reservior.

The afternoon lighting has been so lovely - soft, pink light.

Gratuitous snow photos...