Murray River at Renmark

 We stepped aboard an old paddle steamer for a lazy trip down the Murray.

 Red cliffs rose gloriously beside us.

 

 This little vessel was meant to instil some sense of safety in us. Just how it would transport all 62 of us to shore in an emergency was not explained. I think some of us may have had to swim!

 

 

 We passed stands of sculptural trees which in life would have been glorious. Now they stand naked and beautiful against the backdrop of a living river.

 

 

 The river has many side waters where myriad birds have built their nests.
A wonderful journey down a minute section of our mighty Murray River.

Lunch by the Lake

 

Yesterday I took my lunch to the Lake. It is a peaceful place away from the intensity that is my workplace. I watched as a small bird hopped, flew and hovered around the large tree in front of me searching for its lunch of insects. On the bark and around the roots it fossicked and hunted, pecking at the morsels it discovered before it moved on busily searching elsewhere. A magpie came to the window of my car looking for an easy feed. When none came his way he moved on to other cars and picnickers. A couple of ducks went gliding by, silently searching the water for who knows what. A refreshing and peaceful interlude was over and I returned to the busyness of the afternoon. 

Mountain Garden

 Last week we visited the most amazing garden. It was a very peaceful and calming place. The rhododendrons and azaleas were in full bloom ensuring that the visitor was entranced by the myriad colours and hues of these beautiful plants. I have shared some photos here for you to see and enjoy.