Spring seemed so soft and happy today, inspiring and inviting a sense of gentle joy. We walked through Leigh-on-Sea, lunching on healthy salads at Barlow & Fields,  then wandering through other local shops.

It felt so nice to be out without scarves and gloves, warm enough in the sunshine but still feeling chilly in the shade.

In the distance the Thames beckoned as we walked down the steep hill to the seafront where the fishing boats were unloading their catch. An absolutely delicious day!