That’s it, it’s this time of year again, where Christmas starts to be all around.

‘ I respond in line and shape to the environment I find myself in at any one time - on the bus or ferry, under an umbrella in a rain shower, staring into the sea, being buzzed by a dragonfly’

Last summer, returning to the Isle of Wight on the Wightlink car ferry, I was lucky enough to come across the HMS Prince Of Wales.

Last weekend was the Classic Car Extravaganza in Ryde.

A Saturday in July like any other. Suddenly, hundreds, perhaps thousands, of boats.

‘There’s a vibrant and growing cultural sector that is putting the Isle of Wight on the national map and I’m very proud to be part of that.’

There's something magical about sunsets on the island at this time of year.

If you live in Ryde, you probably already know Jo. She has owned and run N°64 Ryde since April 2017.

I must confess I have a soft spot for Ryde Pier.

Not sure one can beat their moto: 'Since 1983. Eat, drink, STINK'. The Isle of Wight Garlic Festival is the island's biggest summer show for sure.

The holidaymakers have gone, the beach has returned to its normal routine.

Last week I went to Monkey Heaven with my daughter.

A Sunday morning in February. Cold and very sunny. On the sand, a few relics of Valentine's Day.
 The sea is perfectly calm, blending with the blue tones of the sky.

The beach is exposed, bare and immense. As if you could walk to Portsmouth.

Take the high ground to get away from the beach, overcrowded with holidaymakers.

In hoodies or polo shirts, in skirts or shorts, with caps, hats or even astride, the walkers are out and about this Saturday morning.

How about going under it for a change?' she said as we passed the pier.

It's a special treat to walk along the seafront and look at the beach huts. They come in all shapes and colours.

A sunny Sunday in Seaview.
The sea is calm, the sky blue.