Sue Woodcock: Silent skies show the real power of nature

I feel desperately sorry for the countless people who are stranded but the lack of airborne traffic has its upside too. The skies have been empty and the peace and quiet has been akin to heaven. I don't think I really noticed how many planes came over my place until they were not there. I am under a flight path from both Leeds Bradford Airport and Manchester and in addition, the RAF practice very low over the moor almost daily.

It may be my imagination but the air smells cleaner too. Then the sunsets have been rather good, which in itself is not unusual here. I went out one night and stared at the sky and there was a strange, twinkly aspect to the stars. I stood mesmerised for quite a time. The moon was brilliant and had an unusual glow.

I have another rescue dog, an incredibly handsome two-year-old tricolour border collie, neutered and very affectionate. His name is Jack and he has fitted into my household so well he will be stopping with me. He is very bright and has displayed an unusual trait for a collie. He is musical. I discovered this while listening to some choral music on the radio and later a superb singer on the television.

Jack sat up and watched the set and listened carefully, his head on one side as though distinguishing the harmony. It rather took me by surprise. I have met musical dogs before, especially spaniels, but obviously his hearing is very acute. He has already discovered where the dog food and treats are kept. He is also quite tall and has no trouble reaching a previously dog-proof hiding place. He and Ewan chase each other round the fields and then squabble over their food but already seem to be good friends. Brillo defends her territory, especially my bed, but once that was established she seemed quite happy. I re-lined and replaced the grate of my Rayburn this week. It works a lot more efficiently now. As soon as it was working again I had to have a much needed bath. Now I just need to tidy the house.

All but one of the remaining ewes have lambed. I had to help with one, a lovely little black tup lamb, the ewe, an elderly Shetland, almost came to me and asked for assistance. Then there was a set of twins from one of my Katmoget, a tup and a gimmer looking very like pure Jacobs, all doing very well. The turkeys are laying eggs in profusion but abandoning them. I am trying to hatch them out. Even the ducks are laying. The lambs are growing fast and I watched the Jacob ewe lamb playing king of the castle with the billy kid Godfrey the other day. He was on top of a pile of sand and she was levitating up to him to dispute his dominance.

I went up the dale to visit my new godson Sheldon. He is a wonderful and very contented baby. He is to be christened soon and I am looking forward to it.

I am already bored silly with the election. I shall be voting because I consider it a duty. I doubt much will change but one can live in hope. Hope is an essential in my life, however tough it is. The weather is kinder, spring is here and I even feel less tired. All around me new life is emerging and summer is on its way.

CW 24/4/10