Surprise flood

With Ian taking a break from work party duties this afternoon we decided to have a run into Derbyshire to visit our daughter Christine. Now her home is in Swadlincote and well away from any danger of flooding as the nearest river to her is the River Mease, about 5 mile away, so imagine our surprise when we came across this about half a mile from her property!

looking back

This flood was caused by the sheer amount of rainfall they had 2 days ago in the wee hours of the morning. At first Ian wasn't to sure about driving into it but seeing that one car made it okay he decided to give it a go. I'm pleased to report the car got through unscathed but came out a lot dirtier then when it went in!

Having arrived at Christines first thing I wanted to see was how the stick insects were faring. I cant beleive how large they have grown. Apparently they shed their skin regularily to allow for growth but surely they cant get any bigger! They must be at least 6 month old so now I'm wondering when the first eggs will arrive!

This one is Cowboy. Second to emerge from the egg and about 5" long

Bob the first. At least 6" long

Minnie the third and still the smallest at about 3.5"

I have just checked on the web for the life cycle of a stick insect and it appears the males are smaller then the females. Me thinks Christine may have to rename them all! Anyway after going with Christine to collect Josh from school we made our way back to our bungalow to pick up our old cooker. We managed to sell it on ebay and, fancying a day out tomorrow, agreed to take it to the new owner in Chertsey. If the weather is good we may carry on to Lechlade and visit the Christmas shop, which is open all year round, for this years Christmas baubles!.


And finally:-