As the seasons march on and autumn descends up on us, more quickly this year it would seem, the berries begin to ripen. And now, in the fields and lanes around us the blackberries are ready.
Now, we have quite a lot of mature brambles on our patch. Most of the year, this is not good news, but now they are laden with tasty fruit. All of a sudden, brambles are good.
So, with dogs in tow, I set off for our orchard and woodland. Covering over 3 acres, it’s full of adventure for dogs. Moles, pheasants and all sorts of wildlife leave exciting smells and trails to follow. Paradise for dogs. And they love it.
until….
you stop to pick blackberries!
Then this happens:
Off lead, no restraints, wide open space, but no, so much better to sit with a face like a slapped kipper. I have never fully understood this, nevertheless, I carried on picking and left her to it. Our other dog, George, also lay down but seemed more content to wait for me to finish.
Net result, a tray of lovely blackberries to help flavour our apple crumbles throughout the winter months. Yum!