We had been cooped up for so long with all the work being done in the house and having the drive resurfaced: the parquet floor* took 9 days instead of 4, the drive had been delayed and went from taking 5 days to 11 days due to the rainy weather and we were also decorating the kitchen and lounge! The middle Sunday, however, turned into a fine day and I was feeling like a caged animal, so we took a short drive to one of my favourite places: Lilleshall National Sports Centre, where the gardens and magnificent trees never cease to uplift and inspire.
Here are some photos from that afternoon’s breath of fresh air:
Then, on the way out, along the long drive with its line of conifers, old farmhouse cottages and where we often see squirrels, a badger, pheasant and rabbits, here was a flock of ducks waiting to cross the road. We slowed to a stop so I could take a photo, and waited as they regarded us, assessed the situation and eventually decided it was safe to cross. Tentatively, the first one stepped out, looked at us then carried on, while the others had a little huddle to discuss whether he was wise or insane and then slowly followed his lead in a long line.
Three cars were stopped either side of the road until they reached safety and proceded on to the lake a few hundred metres away. It made my day.
See also: Magnificent Trees, Olympic Medallists, A Czar & Some Sheep! for the history and more beautiful photos of Lilleshall
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If you like country estates, you’ll love this! for a different seasonal view.
*The Tour de France & A Parquet Tour de Force!
Copyright: Chris McGowan
pearsnotparsnipsdotcom 
Those gardens are amazing!
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They truly are and of course they change withh the seasons. If you read the post about its history, there are more photos and interesting background information of how it developed from a country estate to our National Sports Centre where the professional footballers and Olympic gymnasts, archers etc train. It’s open and free.
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I am infatuated with the ducks!
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There were so many of them and so trusting, the lead one looked at me for a long time as if sizing me up before deciding we were not about to mow them down, then put his best foot forward.
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Oh the gardens look incredible! I adore places like this 🙂
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I love it, it is my go-to place to revive my spirits, and best of all it’s free.
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I love the duck crossing! And that is why it’s always important to get out and about for a break from routine. 🙂
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Watch out for tales of more outings … thanks for reading 😊
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