We have been regularly walking our Border Collie, Effie, along Ilston Cwm since late summer. The Cwm (valley) is a wooded crease in the landscape lined by a stream that flows towards the sea at Three Cliffs Bay. Once past Parkmill it is known as Pennard Pill. Only in the summer the stream often runs dry so only a rocky stream bed can be seen. I forgot this when we revisited for the first time and I initially thought it was primarily the result of this summer’s long drought. Which it sort of is but not in the way I thought. I found it difficult to recognise parts of the stream that I had painted in early spring years ago.
It can feel very odd to cross little bridges over the empty streambed. The early morning woods were one of the few places that felt bearable in the heat of the summer. Despite the lack of rain the valley was still green but the undergrowth was “restrained” (I think that’s the right word). There were ferns and mosses but they had not spread their fronds as far and wide as they usually do. In many areas thew ground was completely bare.
I thought I’d include this funny clip below from Instagram. I thought it really caught he vibe of what it is like walking a Border Collie in the woods. I hope it plays for you where ever you are. (I have another version at the end of this post if you cant get it to play).
The point of walking a dog is the enjoy the dog’s joy.
)
The heat has gone and it has been raining but the stream has only returned in parts of the cwm. It’s a small thrill to come across parts of the stream returned and babbling. Its mostly the part near the church at Ilston.
Now it is raining again I notice that the ferns are more expansive, perky almost. The mossy branches, more verdant and lush. There is plenty of undergrowth and the mossy branches are looking plush again. I feel like they are trying to catch up for lost time before the tempertures drop!
I am looking forward to a time when water is flowing along the length of the stream again and I might paint the reflected woodlands in all their glory!
Footnote:- Effie is usually covered in tiny green burs after running through the bushes. They are not easy to get out and I have to tease them out with my fingers. The odd thing about Effie, and probably all Border Collies, is that she never yelps or complains although she clearly doesnt like them being removed. I have to reward with cheese to ensure her cooperation!
