A tolerable day at work is one when I can go out for some fresh air at lunchtime, without freezing or getting soaked. Last Wednesday was one of the very best for a stroll, the sun was shining, the morning had been dull and I needed some space.

Next door to the hospital where I work, is a psychiatric unit, around 150 years old and set in lovely grounds with original trees. If the ground is dry I often head that way, come along with me. We’ll begin beside the old lodge near the front gate.

It’s like a miniature gothic castle with its crenalations.

Here’s the back entrance. What can we find in the hedge?

I’m surrounded by birdsong, with a robin singing loudest. Look ahead, we’ll check out the trees.

The bluebells are guaranteed to help get rid of the morning’s stresses.

I zigzag from tree to tree, in and out of the hedge.

These fir cones, like my feet, are rather large!

I would  have loved to climb this tree, it looks quite an easy one doesn’t it? The one behind on the left is quite special too,

Look at the chunky bark, it’s been around for a very long time.

On we go towards the perimeter of the grounds, where it’s a bit wilder, and someone’s had lunch already.

Time to curve across the lawn, my half hour is flying by.

But I still need to see that bright tree ahead.

Wow, such a fresh and glowing green!

I linger for a minute, enjoying the shadows, but my time really is up. Thanks to this stroll, the afternoon was manageable, two and a half hours until home time. I’m really lucky with the surroundings at work aren’t I? I hope you enjoyed walking with me, I’m sharing with Jo and looking forward to seeing where she walked.