Beginning To End

Yesterday was the last day of my tulip fever. As they say it's time to move on. Azaleas are in bloom, rhododendron starting. Scent fills the air; lilac and honeysuckle wafting by. Jack and Pauline are busy cutting down 5 elm that we have lost to Dutch elm disease. So change is all about. Parts of the garden need to be rethought as the elm were part of the shade garden which is now a far sunnier place. I always find it a blow to loose trees. There is a part of me that thinks trees are eternal.

Tulip petal

Last day 

The Light In The Woods

We have had the best week, 7 days of sunshine with the light shimmering through the young growth. We keep saying 'Did you see that?" or 'Look at this". Having our coffee out on the terrace watching the light, conversation drifts away as we look. Peonies grew about 10 inches, the astillbe are wearing their rusty, burgundy new growth, views are changing in front of your eyes. In the woods the forest floor is welcoming ferns, while all about you the soft, tender light of promise.

The tender light of promise

New Year Thaw

Just in time to be called a January thaw, we have had 2 day of balmy temperatures and some rain and fog. The land comes in and out of focus, the rivers and streams are gurgling and the snow is almost all off the roof. Have spent much of the holidays in my dressing gown, reading and grazing on all the lovely goodies that one only eats at Christmas. It's been wonderful week and now I am ready leave this dreamy time and put some structure back in my life. Wishing you all the very best for 2011.

Dream time