The almond tree is a tree of Cyprus, belonging to the family of roses, plums, cherries and peaches.

The almond is a fruit tree dating from ancient times.  It was grown first in Asia Minor and North Africa.  The almond was known to be one of the best fruit trees in the land of Canaan.  Over time different cultures have carried almonds around the Mediterranean and to neighbouring countries.

The Bedford J truck was manufactured between 1958 and 1976 and was based on a 9ft 11in wheelbase two ton chassis.

There was a choice of two engines, both made by Bedford, either the 3.52 litre six cylinder petrol engine, or a four cylinder 3.14 litre diesel, that was upgraded to 3.29 litres (200 cu in) in 1960, and again in 1967 to 3.61 litres.

25 March was "Greek Independence Day", a national holiday both in Greece and in the Republic of Cyprus. 

It marks the start of the Greek's fight for independence from the Ottoman Empire which began on 25 March 1821.  Independence was finally atteined in July 1832.

Greek Independence Day is marked by historic exhibitions and cultural displays in many of towns, cities and villages.

In Polemi we heard the kids practice for the parade for several days, the sound of their drums carrying across the peaceful countryside.

So of course we had to go and check it out. 

As always in Cyprus, there was a great sense of community. An eqaully always internationally, how do teenage girls perfect that sullen look?

Enjoy the pictures!

Spring in Cyprus is wonderful.  Everywhere is covered is brightly coloured flowers.  Of all the seasons, Cyprus is at its best in the Spring.

Natural beauty always moves me.  And so the camera has been out a fair amount over the last couple of weeks.

Bedford launched the popular S type lorries in the 1950s.  They were called the ‘Big Bedfords’ and brought Bedford into the 7 ton range.

The Bedford S series was immortalised in it's RL form - a four-wheel drive, high ground clearance version used by the British Army.

It's one of those Bedford RLs that's still Andreas' pride and joy.

Sometimes it's easy to forget just how lucky we are.  Until you stumble across a sight like this.

We were out taking the dog for his morning stroll around the countryside. 

On the edge of Polemi, next to SODAP's Kamanterena Winery, is the interesting 'Polemi Concentration Camp'. 

The camp dates from the times of Cyprus' struggle for independence from Britain. 

I've been driving past this little orchard or whatever it is for days.  And every time, I've looked at the sun shining on the golden leaves and kicked myself for not having the camera bag in the car.

One of the things about living on the top of a hill In Cyprus is you can see for miles around (I guess it should be kms here!).

Went for a walk with the dog and the Nikon.  This wasn't without risk.  Dogging in Polemi is a bit dodgy at this time of year on a Sunday.

That's because it's the hunting season in Cyprus.  Every red-blooded Cypriot male capable of walking dons his camos, picks up his shotgun, and ventures out into the country to shoot things.