We haven’t been to the beach in ages and I’ve started to think that the dogs and I are not very good at going out and also the dogs don’t know how to wait nicely in the car.

So, today, I took them to the beach for their dog-walk, en route to taking OH his forgotten packed lunch.

We had the place to ourselves, which is always nice.

Not a soul to be seen.

I tried a new-to-me technique on my camera phone, which was a bit hit and miss, but interesting.

The dogs had a good, if short, runaround because both streams on either side of the beach that are usually wadeable through, were running very fast and full.  We didn’t dare go across though I did wonder whether the intrepid Pepper would have a shot.

Crossing is not for the foolhardy.

I called her off and said if she went, she would be on her own.

They had a good run home and we all enjoyed the change of scenery.

On we drove to deliver the gratefully received lunch-box and I turned the car around at the bottom of the road.

And I saw a pair of Shalders (oyster-catchers) looking very fat and well.  My heart soared.  Spring is on its way.  This is the sign.

When the birds flew off, because they spotted me, their high-pitched shout gave me some hope of being warmer and drier.  We would all love that.