Hattie's Brave Shoot

When part of my research for a shoot is to sit down and watch a film in the afternoon, especially when that film is the wonderful Brave, I love my job just that little bit more!  I have to say when I saw it at the cinema the first time around, a few tears were shed, and judging by the sniffs from some of the adults around me, I wasn't the only one!  It's a beautiful film - great characters, adventures, and of course, the story.  I love a good soundtrack, and it was great to hear Julie Fowlis singing on the title song too.

Anyway, back to the shoot.  I went round to see Hattie, and we sat down to talk about what she would like to do in her Dream For Life Shoot.  I knew just the spot in Hardcastle Crags.  The trees down there were the perfect backdrop.   So off we went for a run around the forest, chasing willo the wisps, climbing trees, and Hattie showcased her archery skills.  She makes a fantastic Princess Merida I'm sure you'll agree!

The Tinderwood Trust Annual Conkers Tournamant

If you go down to the woods today, I would highly recommend a trip to The Tinderwood Trust Forest School!  I had heard so much about the fab work they've been doing in Calderdale for the past few years, it was a joy to actually see it all going on!  They encourage children and young people to develop confidence & self esteem through hands on learning in a woodland environment.

Last Saturday was the annual Conkers Tournament.  It took me back to me and my sister preparing those shiny little beauties to get them match ready for the playground.  I met Emily (Forest School Leader) down there. She had harvested a bumper crop of conkers for the day!

Some children (and adults) had brought their own conkers, prepared in various ways.  Some conkers had painted faces, clustesr were being safely guarded in tins, some had a whole host of conkers strung together!

Emily set out the tournament league table and the matches began.  There were many tightly fought battles.

Emily showed off her conker fighting skills!

There were plenty of other activities going on too.  Mud rivers, rope swings, fairy den building to name but a few.

And the homemade bread was cooking in the fire circle for a post match snack.

It was lovely to see the wood smoke curling up into the sky, and everyone sat around the fire circle having a chat.  There were ripples of laughter and cheers of delight as another conker battle was won!  It was one of those afternoons where I left with a big smile on my face.  And I can't wait to go and visit soon.