A Bit of the Bubbly

As the temperature soars here in Las Vegas, and the thermometer read "only" 110o today, I am heartened by the fact that somewhere in the heart of Derbyshire in England, at the magnificient estate known as Chatsworth House, cool, clear, cold water is bubbling, spewing, jetting, meandering and dancing!

I watched a marvelous program last night on PBS highlighting all the historic country estates throughout England. Last night's installment was all about Chatsworth, the home of the Dukes of Devonshire since the 15th Century.

One of the most impressive sites is the various water features on the property. Added throughout many years, they reached their pinnacle by the 18th Century, and are maintained to this day by the current Duke. The famous Duchess of Devonshire, Georgiana Cavendish, lived at Chatsworth at the heights of its beauty. She was born in 1757 and died 1806. I can imagine her strolling along, hearing the refreshing water.  Here a couple pictures of the estate while The Duchess was being filmed.

I visited there in the later-2000's with my daughter in the Summer. The water cascading down the stairs (as shown above) is a magnificent site. There is also a wonderful labyrinth to challenge, all green leaf walls, another shady, verdant spot to explore. There's just something about seeing water; just the site makes you feel cool. And so today, I take a break from the work for just a bit, and savor the Chatsworth's refreshing scene.