And has never looked so relatively weed free (still a long way to go, of course).

The gooseberries are beginning to swell

And if anyone can identify this little butterfly I would be grateful

After several weeks recovering from injuries at the beak of one of the ganders, we have put goosey back with the flock.

The four chicks born last week are doing well

Although it’s called Cow Parsley

The chickens love it

As do the goats. I cut lots of cow parsley in the orchard just now. I have shared it around. The goats also got a bucket of sorrel leaves.

I was able to see, from a distance, Bella (now called Parsley) who lives across the road with our friends wonderful small herd of Dexter cattle. Bella was the daughter of our late cow Beattie. She is a delightful cow and this is her first calf – born without any need of help or intervention.

High in a tree by the field is a nest of kestrels.

I couldn’t see them but the feather is evidence of their occupation. Let’s hope the crows keep away from the babies .

J and I are working in the garden and poly tunnel whilst the Milkman sets up his camera shots in the barn. Social distancing is the order of the day especially since we also have our four refugees to consider. It all feels very strange and unnatural, like visiting mum through a glass window felt last week. L