The calm after the storm

The storms have been and gone, and (sheltered from the worst of the westerly wind) we've been little affected. There was a high tide and a large swell at Deal, but the wind did not deter some fishermen, although this one was more concerned with feeding the Turnstones.
Monday's gales had more effect as they were stronger and came from the south, and a description and some good pictures are on the St Margaret's blog.

Some branches were blown down in the wood, in this case leaving the tree to appeal - Where's my head?

When things calmed down, the birds emerged, including this Robin who was annoyed by the feeder being put back up in the tree, as he'd had an easy time when it blew down.That's it, it's easy with a bit of practice.

A Chiffchaff appeared, the first warbler in the garden this year. The first last year was three days earlier.
The male Sparrowhawk was again seen flying up the twitten, and the Little Owl remained serenely at his post.
Meanwhile in the kitchen, I tried some Alexanders leaf shoots, prepared and served like asparagus.
The kitchen was perfumed by the smell of the boiling shoots, and the eating was good - the tender young ones were the most succulent, with an original flavour and good texture. I'll try them again, as there's plenty about.