Apparently, summer has arrived, and today was gloriously warm and sunny.  I walked Raphie in the park under clear blue skies the sounds of birds ringing in our ears.

The park is at its most beautiful at this time of year, before the heat has had chance to parch the grass. The yellow gorse has given way to the roses.  First to bloom are the small, delicate white ones with bright yellow centres which seem to glow. A little later, come their bright pink cousins trying, successfully, to steal the limelight.  They create pockets of sweet scent which seems to waft with you as you walk the paths.  The trees are fully clothed now in all shades of green.  They cast their dappled, cathedral-like light over the paths, giving shade to those who need it.

Raphie, of course, cares nothing for any of this, preferring to follow scent trails of her own.  She stalks the ducks who ignore all, except those who bring them something to eat.

The rabbits are becoming more obvious, and she has started to spot them almost daily.  She tries to give chase, but does not get anywhere near them.  They are far too wise.  I doubt that she would know what to do with it if she did catch one.