I haven’t taken part in Hugh’s photo challenge for a while, but I felt compelled to this week. Perhaps it’s because my week has been consumed with photography – my eldest daughter has three projects to complete for her photography class and she likes to involve the whole family!
The theme also spoke to me. I’m a solitary person, I think writers are in general; we’re never really alone – what with the characters in our head! I’m at ease in solitude, it soothes me, and allows me to recharge my batteries. It’s not that I don’t like being with people, it’s that I like my own company, too. I can write anywhere and at any time. It’s easy for me to switch off, even in a crowded café, but there’s something to be said for the quiet peace of nature.
When I’m on holiday, I tend to be on the go; exploring a new place so I can soak it in. I usually find a quiet spot to reflect. The first photo, a place named Durdle Door in Dorset, gave the perfect backdrop and I almost got lost in my moment of solitude!
I lived in Dorset for a while, and loved the area. When I got time off, I went exploring with my family. Bournemouth beach is wonderful, especially at six in the morning when there are few people around and the beauty of it settles like a calming breath. The second photo was taken on one of my early morning outings. I took a notebook and a cup of coffee, and let the inspiration flow.
The last two photographs are here because the garden used to be one of my favourite places to relax and find time for myself. The garden was built below the house, and though you can’t see it in the photograph, a decking area provided the perfect viewpoint. I would sit out in the evening or in the morning, and enjoy the scenery.
Thanks to Hugh for providing the inspiration and, as always, thanks for stopping by.
Mel
Melissa Barker-Simpson 
What stunning photos Mel. I love the beauty of Dorset, the sweeping bay at Weymouth and the crashing waves over the rocks at Portland. The little country villages are so picturesque too.
Thanks, Judy 🙂 I completely agree with you. There are some magical places to enjoy…I feel a visit coming on!
HA! Don’t blame you! 🙂
Oh I love these pics Mel!
Thanks, Suzie. When I was sifting through them it made me want to go back. That and the reminder I haven’t take enough photos recently! 🙂
You can never take enough photographs in my opinion haha!
I’m of the same mind set…better dust off my camera! 😉
Haha!
😀
Lovely photos Mel, nothing like a sea view, and a garden to say beautiful solitude.
Thanks, Marje. I agree with you…there is such beauty around us if we stop to enjoy it 🙂
Definitely, those little snatched moments are so wonderful. 🙂
I’ve visited Dorset and it’s wonderful coastline and little thatched cottage villages. It’s a wonderful part of the UK, Mel. These photographs certainly pick up on this week’s theme and so do your words in the post. That’s a beautiful garden, but I would not like to have to be the one to keep it looking that way. I love sitting in the garden, but’s that’s about all I do once there. Oh! Maybe have a glass of wine and let my imagination run wild. 😀
I’m totally with you on that, Hugh – I’m not a gardener! Luckily my mum is, so I got to appreciate it…I’ll stick with you on the deck with a glass of wine 😉
Sounds great, Mel. Now, all I need to know is White or Red? 😀
Definitely red! 😀
Congratulations Mel, I have featured your entry to my recent photo challenge on my blog.
https://hughsviewsandnews.com/2016/04/12/hughs-weekly-photo-challenge-week-21-fresh/
Thank you so much for participating.
Best wishes,
Hugh
Thanks so much, Hugh. I’m honoured 🙂
Gorgeous pictures, Mel 🙂
Thanks, Callum 😀
Beautiful, peaceful photos, Mel. I always loved getting involved in my children’s projects. Luckily, they didn’t mind–as I think your daughter doesn’t either. Some of my very fond memories are of what I learned helping them.
I can totally relate to that. We’ve had great fun. Thanks, Jacqui 🙂
Gorgeous photos, Mel – you captured the theme beautifully 🙂
I enjoy solitude as well. Crowds tend to stress me out, and I much prefer streets uncrowded and beaches empty.
Thank you, Helen 🙂 I love quiet beaches. I generally find a secluded spot and certainly avoid peak times!
Yes, me too!
Gorgeous pictures, Mel! The first and second are my favorites the water looks amazing. 🙂
Thanks, Vashti 🙂 It’s a beautiful part of the country, and the scenery is just spectacular. Sometimes, I really miss it. I know I’ll definitely be organising a trip back to Dorset soon!
What a lovely, tranquil blog post. I also love solitude and my own company but am not an introvert perhaps an ‘ambivert’. Like sharing feelings and experiences with people but need to recharge in nature on my own, running or walking. I have just started a poetry blog on WordPress in case you have time to have a look? Sam 🙂
Thanks 🙂 Being an ambivert sounds like the perfect balance. I’ll check out your poetry blog. Thanks for stopping by.