Thursday, January 15, 2015

The forces of nature

Situated on a coastal plain we have the sea to the north and mountains to the south. We are vulnerable to weather fronts that come in from the Atlantic and Bay of Biscay or from the Picos de Europa mountain range. Following several warm and sunny days, today we are experiencing severe winds battering us from every direction with each new sequence of gusts growing stronger and increasingly forceful. I have been out and moved the most vulnerable of flower pots, watered smaller pots to give them weight and moved garden furniture to prevent damage occurring where possible.


The uncollected fallen leaves are scurrying around the garden and some now litter the pond. The remaining leaves on the hazel have finally succumbed to nature and the high branches of the dying cherry tree are creaking and occasionally breaking under the strain of gale-force winds.


The cats are sleeping and manage to switch off from distractions. They seem to instinctively know that their day of lazing in the sun, hunting and patrolling their territory is not going to happen; choosing to retreat to the safety of the spare bedroom and comfort. The roar of the Bufones (blow holes) and the waves crashing against the rocks doesn't seem to trouble them as they lay together, snug and safe.



Rain is on its way and as the skies lighten and darken rainbows appear and disappear. We rarely see snow at this level (49m above sea level) but in the distance, when the clouds clear, we can see the distant peaks of El Sueve dusted with snow.


The fire is lit and the log baskets are full. I think I'll take a leaf out of the cat's book and retreat from the world and enjoy a lazy day.


*

7 comments:

  1. Snap! Here in Cornwall we are having gale force winds , squally rain and hail showers. No dramatic pictures however the noise is dramatic enough. Managed to walk our dog between bouts of rain though and now safely home. Jenny

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    1. Keep safe and warm Jenny, it's the only way this weather.

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  2. I find it amazing that my cats don't even bother getting up on miserable days. They don't need to look out of the window to decide it's not worth it. They definitely have the right idea.

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    1. I think the cats have what is called Petrichor... (look it up, fascinating)

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  3. We only have the one cat that insists in going out whatever the weather only to ask to come back in within minutes and then complain to us as though it's all our fault. The rest of the family just get their heads down and do what cats do best, sleep.

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    Replies
    1. Wentworth (the black cat) will go out and shelter but occasionaly comes back absolutely drenched - he loves a towel rub.

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  4. Magnificent pictures, Mr H. The sky is fantastic and the cliff shots are epic.

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