The clouds cleared

The clouds cleared today, in more than one sense. Out on the hills yesterday and today, and the sun has shone. Yesterday was gin-clear, with every tree, branch and leaf sharply defined. Today was less so, but the views from the ridges were spectacular. The valleys, many of which see no sun at this time of year, were dark and cold, and ice remains all day. Some of the smaller lanes were also streams, taking away the water of five days of continuous rain. I visited homes to the west, in some of the most remote corners. Everyone I wanted to see was at home, always a good sign; I received warm welcomes and felt I'd done a good days work at the end.