23 September 2023

Rather chilly during the night, Winter is definitely on its way. Today looks to be a gorgeous day. The weather managed a very short shower before we left the campsite. Various other campers, including an English couple, were walking or cycling to the nearest large village for the market. We ambled over to the lakes. Much more formal now, signs prohibiting non campers’ entry to them.  The lake division had been completed, and there were fences not allowing further access to the next lake.

We wandered around the grassy areas. Plenty of wildflowers and weeds, the little grass there was short. Not many birds around other than a couple of swans arguing and flying between the ponds. Plenty of insect life which we photographed.

Back to the tent for lunch, then I took a walk to the nearby village to visit a supermarket. Lovely walk along the canal side, saw a few bikes going either way. Excellent cycling path, so smooth.  The canal was very low in water. Seeing the grain silo on the bank side, it does seem the canal is still used for commercial traffic.

I found the supermarket and purchased the next three days of provisions. Hopefully, the ample supply of not-French-baguette type sliced bread will last longer.

Walked back by the road instead of the canal which was slightly shorter. On my 30-minute walk, I was passed by only three cars.

Campsite was a bit fuller today, Rosemary narrated about the German couple who came, used the toilets and one had a shower and then they left after lecturing her about the cold shower water. She showed them how to turn it to hot.

Thankfully the Dutch couple who pitched nearby were much nicer. Turned out they had worked in Kenya in the 70s. They had a BMW car towing a very cute old caravan. It was more than 60 years old, had a popup roof with bright orange canvas. They said it was so hard to find replacement canvas of the same color. R had a tour of it, while the chap tried out his Swahili on me.

After supper we took a short walk around the village. Some nice areas, but also derelict buildings around by the church. Looks like a proper renovation will be happening there some time.