Heron on the water

During the lighter months, I walk home from work which can take around one and three-quarter hours. I take the scenic route, along the John Muir Way from Corstorphine then onto the Water of Leith to Stockbridge, then through the tenemented streets to my side of town. I really miss the walk when the nights start getting darker and I have to get the bus. Tonight I decided to get the bus part of the way and join the Water of Leith at Roseburn Cliff. It was good timing as it was getting darker as I reached the end.  I love seeing the walk at this time of year, it's so bare but you start to see wee signs of life and colour as the weeks go on and the longer days bring some much needed warmth and light to the plants and trees. I was soooooo happy when I reached Dean Village to find my old pal Harald the Heron sitting like a King on the water - you can see him in the photo. Sadly, his feathers were looking pale and weather-beaten but hopefully he will shake-off the winter blues just like the rest of us. It was a lovely refreshing walk and I look forward to seeing it spring to life over the coming weeks.  It looks like I got home at a good time...the heavens have opened!!