Early walk by the river

This part of the river Avon, Conham, is only about a mile from home as the gull flies, but an awkward drive. It’s above the lock where the river splits into the floating harbour and the New Cut (where the river flows)  so it’s not tidal. Couldn’t be more different as a river, quietly flowing, with water lilies, the occasional kingfisher, wildflowers and trees on both sides, extremely beautiful. I set off at 8 and had the place to myself for a little while. Soon it started to get busier, it’s so lovely, lots of people want to enjoy it.  They divided into 4 groups, in descending order of size - dog walkers, runners, rowers, and cyclists - thank goodness the smallest group as there isn’t really room. Got a bit tired of jumping out of their way. I was the only person I saw who was just walking and looking. 
I took masses of pictures but this one shows it best I think. I walked a mile or so to the heronry, where fortunately there is a bench, so I sat and peered at them with my binoculars. There’s at least 10 nests up there, right in the very tops of the tallest trees, seemingly a bit precarious.  I couldn’t see any young, they are very carefully protected I’m sure. The adults were standing tall in their nests, staring along the river, hoping to see their partner come back with a fish I imagine.  None did in the 15 or 20 minutes I was there.  But they must be doing ok, as the numbers are as high as previous years. 

I’ve recently started going to counselling, because I give myself such a hard time. She gives me homework, so I spent the afternoon on that, it’s really difficult:) 

PS I’ve just looked - this looks much better if you click those little arrows to the right of the likes and heart symbols.  The clarity seems to be lost sometimes when you upload phone photos