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Under the Hood: Making It Blazing Fast

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Have you ever wondered what makes this website tick? Let's delve into the tech powering it, and why I opted for a speed-first approach. For many years now, I've relied on Blogger as my blogging platform. While it might not be the flashiest option on the market, it gets the job done for me. It's familiar, user-friendly, and allows me to focus on the content itself. Plus, it's powered by Google. Their infrastructure is second to none, so why wouldn't you choose the best? But content is only half the battle. A slow website is a frustrating one, so I've taken steps to ensure this blog loads lightning fast. The foundation for this speed comes from the simple design. Less clutter means less for your browser to process. However, I didn't stop there.  Behind the scenes, some prefetch magic is happening. This clever trick tells your browser to anticipate what it might need next (such as javascript), pre-loading it in the background. The result? Pages that appear to

Ennerdale Water: A Tranquil Escape in the Lake District

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Ennerdale Water is a beautiful lake located in the western part of the Lake District National Park. It is the most westerly lake in the Lake District and is surrounded by fells, including Great Gable and Green Gable. There are several walking and hiking trails in the area, which offer stunning views of the lake and the surrounding countryside. A haven for wildlife Ennerdale Water is a haven for wildlife. The lake is home to a variety of birds, including herons, swans, and ducks. Otters have also been spotted in the lake in recent years. The surrounding fells are home to a variety of mammals, including sheep, deer, and foxes. A place to relax and unwind Ennerdale Water is a great place to relax and unwind. The lake is surrounded by beautiful scenery, and there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the peace and quiet of the countryside. There is a campsite nearby, as well as several holiday cottages and hotels.  Getting to Ennerdale Water Ennerdale Water is located in the western part of

Devoke Water: A Hidden Gem in the Lake District

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The Lake District National Park is awash with stunning lakes, each with its own unique character. But nestled away on Birker Fell, there's a hidden gem waiting to be discovered - Devoke Water.  This beautiful tarn (a small glacial lake) holds the title of the largest tarn in the whole Lake District. While not as grand as some of its more famous cousins, Devoke Water offers a tranquility that's hard to beat.  A Haven for Wildlife and Anglers Surrounded by low-lying fells, Devoke Water is a haven for wildlife. Keep an eye out for soaring buzzards, listen for the gentle plop of a frog, or see if you can spot the flash of a fish jumping. Speaking of fish, Devoke Water is a well-kept secret amongst anglers. Its deep, dark waters are home to a healthy population of brown trout and perch, making it a fantastic spot to cast a line (permit required from Millom Anglers). Walking Trails and Breathtaking Views Devoke Water can be reached via a bridleway that winds across Birker Fell. This

The Rusted Relic: A Rundown Barn in West Cumbria

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The Cumbrian countryside is scattered with reminders of the past. One such reminder is a rundown barn near Pica, in West Cumbria. The barn, which is thought to have been built in the early 19th century, is a beautiful example of traditional agricultural architecture. However, it has fallen into disrepair in recent years, and its future is uncertain. The barn is made of local stone, and its walls are thick and sturdy. The roof was made of slate, but is now virtually non-existent. The barn's doors (at the side) are made of wood, and they are hanging off their hinges. The interior of the barn is spacious, and it is supported by a number of wooden beams. The floor is made of earth, and it is covered in hay and straw. The barn is located in a field of rolling hills, and it is surrounded by sheep and cows. The views from the barn are stunning, and it is a great place to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet of the countryside. The barn is a popular spot for photographers and walkers, and i