Before the storm

Since very early, while I was swimming, it has felt as though the forecast storm was about to break. Incredibly muggy - but still not here.

I called in at the Muckley Corner Open Space to see if there has been much change. They've cleared the approach road and mended the name sign and you can get far further onto the site. It was very rough ground, and imminently but misleadingly damp so I didn't venture very far.

It was warm enough for butterflies but not much sun. I was buzzed three times by a Red Admiral (or 3 as they were in different areas). I saw a green veined white and a gatekeeper plus a couple of silver y moths. That was all, in spite of the buddleias and other treats. Maybe I could check on a brighter day. Duly logged though.

My clematis still has a lovely colour, even though the trellis work needs sorting.

Good luck with the storm. I hope we get a gentle version - we need the rain but not big problems.