I went out on my bicycle yesterday. The day was bright and the sky a startling blue. Harvest has come to an end and the farmers have collected their rice for the year. The fields near my house are a wonderful shade of brown and yellow. Crow’s circle high above and gather in groups on wire fencing and by the edge of the road. They stare down below. Black eyes pierce the dusty ground, waiting for the moment when the farmer goes inside, checking that the scarecrows are harmless to their plight.

Making their loud cries as if giving each other a single, they swoop down to the ground and peck at the remaining grains. There are so many of them. I have to weave in and out so not to collide into their jagged wings.

The clouds move quickly and now they’re competing with me and my two wheels. Sitting by the river, I admire the daises, full of pinks and oranges. Farmers burn their grass and the smoke drifts, settling on my clothes.

Old folk return from the market, baskets brimming with leeks, aubergines and pumpkins. Mopeds whiz by and men in trucks take 40 winks after a long night on the road.

High school students cycle to their sports clubs, bags weighed down with rackets and gym shoes. Children walk home, their yellow hats stay firm, with elastic around their chin. Satchels jostle with pencils, pokemon and Tottero nic naks.

Office men and women stand in their designated smoking areas, taking a well earned break from their 12 hour working day.

Dusk is upon us and the orange sky reflects on grey tiled roofs.

I make my way home, deciding what to cook, and to plan for the following day.

Lots of love

 

Belinda