Photo of the day - 2

After Nigel & I had finished leading our various Church services this morning, we decided that as it was a lovely sunny afternoon we would go for a walk then out for a meal. We drove into Barking and went for a walk along the River Roding,which eventually makes its way out to the River Thames via the Barking Barrier.

We both had our cameras and clicked away as we walked and enjoyed the sunshine after the heavy rain last night. I will be sharing some of my photos on Judith's Neck Of The Woods but for now this is my favourite photo of today.

click on photo to enlarge

Mayesbrook Park

Today I went for a quick walk to Mayesbrook Park via my nearest entrance and to the lake and then out of the Drive entrance back home.

In Barking and Dagenham we are very fortunate to have so many parks and open spaces for an area so close to London. I am very fortunate because I am within 5 to 10 minutes of two parks _ Mayesbrook Park and Barking Park. We are currently being encouraged to Vote for our park so that if it wins it will receive money to help preserve, renovate and upgrade facilities - I have just voted on line for Mayesbrook Park. This is the blurb on the website..

The Mayes Brook, which gives this park its name, is now constrained behind tall railings in a concrete channel. A grant would help to deliver exciting plans to:

1.transform the river into a far more natural form;
2.open up a footpath alongside the river;
3.improve the lakes for fishing and wildlife;
4.improve the woodland;
5.plant more trees;
6.improve play facilities

I was quite surprised to see that the lake was still partially frozen but the Canadian Geese and other ducks did not see to be perturbed by this. The Park looks very bleak but come the spring when the daffodils are out and the trees - especially the Weeping Willows - are once more lush it will look entirely different.

After a brisk walk it was wonderful to arrive home and to be welcomed by Karmen (kitten) who just wanted more food!!! plus a lovely, hot, rejuvenating cup of tea before I sit down to start on my assignment.

New Year Resolution - half hour walk

One of my New Year Resolutions is to have at least a half hour brisk walk everyday - so off I ventured to Greatfields Park situated not far from The Salvation Army. Nigel decided to join me, which is good because he walks so fast that in fact it became a half hour jog for me :(

I did take quite a few photos with my mobile phone that led Nigel to say 'Are you here for walk or photography session?' 'Both' I replied..

The first place you should always look for is the loo!! lol

On our way round we were run down by Joyce on her rather dilapidated bike wearing her slippers!! Joyce had been to have a cuppa with her sister who lives on the other side of the Park so therefore had worn her slippers because she was just going from one house to another. I do love characters like Joyce.

My favourite trees 'Weeping Willows' which look as they though they desperately need a drink.

Nigel inspecting the paving stones which he and a group of youngsters repaired last year as part of the Soul in the City programme.

Now to plan tomorrows walk..