One of the great things about painting in winter – apart from the fantastic cloudy skies and exciting seas, of course - is the lack of sand fleas. During the summer they’re an occupational hazard and I have to keep a close eye out for them on the canvas, but since it’s been winter I haven’t had to worry.

Today even though it’s still February it must have been a bit warmer because they were back – hopping over me and the stones and occasionally landing on my painting. Another sign of the approaching spring, I suppose, but not quite as welcome as today’s beautiful blue sky and gentle sunshine.