Basking, or the lack of it, has become a topic in rain soaked Devon and Cornwall. We have been so deprived of winter sunlight, whilst also having the highest winter rainfall, that few of us have felt sunlight on our faces for weeks.

We were lucky and caught several hours of sunshine on the North Coast of Cornwall a couple of weeks ago but only a few miles away on the south coast there was none. 

Rainfall stops random street conversations, as we walk with our heads down and dampness tracking into the areas our waterproofs fail to protect. Rainfall has also minimised the amount of time our bobbing group  has been able to bob. Determined sea swimmers do seem to manage it . But the Bobbers are a mixed event crew, we swim and we talk and then we bask. Making the most of whatever week willed winter sunshine turns up between the rain. For the greatest part of this winter even week willed winter sun has failed to turn up.

Rainfall and a lack of winter sun has also deprived us of the ability to talk about our favourite subject, the weather, with random strangers, on the street. Unless of course we find ourselves outside in the few moments of watery sunshine.

“Perhaps we will have a good Spring to make up for it”

“This isn’t going to last today” 

Long term hope dashed by short term reality.

Nearly a whole winter gone in a deluge.

Oh, we really need some sunshine. We need to talk about the weather.

Basking where are you?