Gardening in January, Miss Potter and Tring Park

It is so unusual to be out in the garden in January, but it was so mild it seemed a waste not to take the opportunity. The remainder of the compost heap was moved at last. It ended up that most of the borders now have a decent layer of mulch. At the same time some weeds were removed and beds dug over, especially in the rose garden. The bulbs are sprouting far earlier than they should. Snowdrops have been out since the first week in January, mini daffs have buds on them and a solitary crocus flower is now looking very sorry for itself.

Work on the new study is progressing. The old carpet was removed on Monday and deposited at the tip. The bits left glued to the floor were scraped and the skirting rubbed down and painted. Alison finished the emulsion today so now awaiting the arrival of the new carpet.

Swimming went better than last week. It was very busy in the pool to start, but amazingly had my own lane after fifteen minutes.

After the violence of "Apocolypto" last week, it was a real pleasure to see "Miss Potter". It had so much warmth, emotion and joy. I have to admit having a lump in my throat all the way through. A great performance from Rene Zellweger and the whole cast. Recognised some of the lakeland views from our visits, especially Cat Bells, Derwent Water and Rydal.

Great walking weather this weekend. However the route from Coombe Hill to Chequers and Ellesborough was the muddiest ever after heavy rain overnight added to that from during the week. Only one large branch across the narrow steps down from Beacon Hill was a problem from the storms on Thursday. Today I went to find Tring Park as Alison had recommended the views. I parked at the Zoological Museum which, as it does not open until 2pm on a Sunday, was deserted. Tring Park is only a few minutes walk away and has two signposted routes. The Woodland Walk is about an hour round with an easy (though described as steep) climb up to the top of the woods. The path along the top is a section of the Ridgeway which I have not previously walked. It is a well maintained path and it does have great views over Tring and across to Dunstable Downs. Descriptions can be found at: www.tring.gov.uk/info/tpark.htm