Butterfly Count

Have you ever wondered what part of the food chain you are on, quite high up actually. I have been doing a butterfly count for 3 years now and am quite alarmed at the decline of the butterfly. I was at Longthorns Farm today and we saw very few butterflies. Last year, same time, we count over 30. Today 8 and that was quite by chance, as we had given up and were walking home.

Small Copper Butterfly

A good friend of mine, Sally Mead, Managing Director of Longthorns Farm, pointed out that the unusually hot spell has had an effect on the wild flowers. I feel it is very important to know how well the bottom of our food chain is doing. This is a barometer on the health of our fauna and flora. 

We did sit on a bench, shaded by the tree canopy and chewed the cud a bit. My feeling is when you relaxed you can put the world to right. That time brought its rewards and we saw a few butterflies.

Moving on very swiftly, I have been speaking to Gary over the last few days about his imminent move to England and must say, it is a daunting prospect for his family. He has provided so well over the years and now they must trust his instinct, that a move is the right thing to do. To me it would be a no brainier but to them it must seem like their world is coming to an end. 

Their life style will change, once they accept the change, they will begin to enjoy their new life. Make no mistake, we will be there for them and as much as possible ease their path but ultimately it is up to the individuals.

I do remember theses words.

'Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering, can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.' 

And in saying that success normally does no happen by chance. It takes hard work, lots of perseverance, learning, sacrifice and most of all, love of what you are doing or learning to do.

Talking of trial and suffering, we are set for another above average hot day with little chance of a breeze to take the edge off. It is forecast to be like this for the rest of the week. Well it has got me swimming again and with JB, we normally have two dips a day. Must teach him to stop trying to save me and just enjoy the coolness of the water.