Hailing from beautiful Cheshire for my young adult life, I was partial to the odd hike, cycle or drive in the glorious surrounding countryside. The Duke of Westminster, godfather to Prince George, lived just down the road and I spent some wonderful days walking up and down his 'driveway' with woodland either side. It was my first introduction to trees, wildlife and the odd flasher and led me to venture further beyond the boundaries of Cheshire into a different country Wales.
Even though my hiking and cycling days are long gone, since arriving in Gifu I have realized there are similar treasures to be explored after the city life of Nagoya. Imagine my delight as recently a few of our visitors have openly shared their love of nature and wildlife, some have spotted some unusual birds in our newly improved garden and others have told us where we can see other delights in the local area.
I heard today that Mandarin ducks can be seen in Matsuo Pond, I have never seen these and will make it my mission to drive down there this week.
Even though my hiking and cycling days are long gone, since arriving in Gifu I have realized there are similar treasures to be explored after the city life of Nagoya. Imagine my delight as recently a few of our visitors have openly shared their love of nature and wildlife, some have spotted some unusual birds in our newly improved garden and others have told us where we can see other delights in the local area.
I heard today that Mandarin ducks can be seen in Matsuo Pond, I have never seen these and will make it my mission to drive down there this week.