I know, you’re going to think I’m obsessed with insects.  Believe me, I’m not.  I’m just lucky to have found another dragon fly that was kind enough to land on a specimen foxglove giving me a perfect background to take this snap.

I am still mesmerised by the wings.  Such intricate details don’t you think.

To see the dragon fly you do of course need to be in the country close to water.  We were doing both today.  It was hot walking weather for bassets but they need their exercise so we avoided the worst heat of the day and made time for a good paddle in the river.

For the first time Mason got more than his feet wet.  He is a bit of a baby when it comes to water.  Not today, he was so pleased to be able to cool off and paddled up to his neck before deciding that was enough.

Here he is all wet and bedraggled but I think looking rather pleased with himself.

As for Fortnum he has taken to flopping down in the long grass to take a moment’s breath in the heat of a walk.  He can be quite stubborn about deciding when it’s time to get up and move again.

Still you can begrudge him a few minutes peace to enjoy the sun, or in his case the shade.  It has been hot.  And dry.  Oh we so need some rain.

Oh, in case you’re wondering.  The in-laws arrived safe and sound.  But they are now in quarantine having arrived with flu like viruses which when you put with jet lag makes for a lethal combination.  I’m sure they’ll be right as rain in a few days but for the moment we’ve left them alone with their lemsips, tissues and a darkened room.  I can’t imagine how bad the 11 hour flight from Hong Kong must have been.

Still at least the sun is shining now they are here!