The Same View: June

As I stand on the rock from which I take this view each month, I invariably feel disappointed.

‘Nothing’s really changed this time. It looks just like it did a month ago. I wish I’d chosen a different view for this experiment…..one with more flowers and deciduous trees. One that doesn’t always look the same.’

And then I get home and load the pictures onto my laptop…..and am taken aback. Every time.

When you’re immersed in a landscape daily, you notice the obvious and show-stopping differences. You realise that the lane is now flanked by cow parsley. You spot that chunky, russet-coloured caterpillars are suddenly walking paths and climbing rocks with you. You see the foxgloves growing tall and watch eagerly for their blooming.

What you don’t notice is how the broad vista of grass is growing marginally greener by the day. Or that the far distant reservoir which glinted in the winter sunshine has gradually been obscured by a tree slowly assuming its summer gown.

Just look at today’s photograph and contrast it with last month’s (below). See how the area in the foreground is finally growing verdant again? Notice how much darker and bushier the trees have become? And look at the fields in the centre of the picture, sprinkled yellow with buttercups.

From now on, I’m withholding judgement until I’ve climbed down from my rock and am sitting at my desk again.

The Same View: May