I’m bracing to say goodbye to irreplaceable sights and sounds. It’s a wistful feeling.
For just over two years we’ve been living semi-rurally in mid-Essex, at a stone’s throw from the River Chelmer. 24 months when I’ve walked up and down its banks, exploring its 11-mile length down to Heybridge, where it blends into the Blackwater estuary.
I can see its boats down at Sandford Mill Lock from the bedroom window. The river’s mists can cover that view some mornings. I have watched the waterway and its surrounds change through the seasons. Observed its wildlife, noted its bridges and locks, found the best nearby pubs. Walking and walking, alone or with companions, I’ve used it as an antidote to darker moods. It’s my territory, mapped and claimed mentally. Conquered by foot.
In a month or so, we’ll be moving to Clacton, on the northeast Essex coast. A more urban setting, whose treats and mysteries are yet to unveil themselves.
It will take time to process the changes. The pictures below hopefully give a sense of the unique and striking beauty that will disappear from our lives.
The Biscuit Factory 
Biscuits, that looks like a beautiful spot. I understand your reticence about leaving. For what it’s worth as a boy I used to holiday in Clacton. The walk along the front from Clapton to Jaywick was an integral part of many a childhood memory. It pleases me immensely to know it will be familiar to someone else who appreciate a good stretch of the legs. Travel well mate. I know that early 1980s Steve for the deaf remembers that route fondly
LikeLiked by 2 people
Good to know Steve. I’ll be walking and biking along that front with some regularity, be sure. Backing away from the coast, there’s plenty of new green territory to explore. I’ve had a good thing here though, and it warranted a tribute.
LikeLiked by 2 people
✊
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s been a pleasure…apart from the waterworks ‘scent’! We will make number 60 our home in no time. And explore pastures new together.
❤️
LikeLiked by 1 person
That we will xxxx
LikeLike
Looks absolutely beautiful where you are living now Kev and I can see why it soothes your soul and helps with feeling good. Nature is magical how it does this! I live near the beach and rain, hail or shine it’s always been good for releasing all negative feelings and get a clear head. I hope the new chapter in the new place goes well, big hugs, Athena
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks Athena – and apologies for forgetting your name!
I’m already transitioning mentally. This will make the physical component easier.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Kev it’s ok don’t worry…for ages I just used Content Catnip because I was paranoid about personal info but I’m less worried about it nowadays, likely I’ve never even used my real name here before. I am looking forward to reading your adventures in the new place. You have a way of writing that inspires me to write about my life…this is a rare gift
LikeLiked by 1 person
That’s a helluva compliment to pay me Athena. In many ways, it’s easier than anything to write about myself. What else do I really know? 😄
LikeLike
Good luck Kev, I wish you every happiness for the future.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Appreciate that Mark, and lots of the same to you!
LikeLike
I can see one reason immediately why you’re so attached to your current locale, Kev.
All that open space and not a single bloody wind turbine.
LikeLiked by 1 person
There’s a few dotted around the Blackwater as it reaches the North Sea, but that’s way past my walking capacity Greg.
LikeLiked by 1 person