Spring

 

We couldn't have asked for a more wonderful start to spring. The forecast for Saturday had been bright blue skies, and although it had been a hazy start to the morning, it turned into the most beautiful day. 

Birdsong. Swathes of daffodils. Blossom on the trees. My senses have awakened. Spring.

And just as I'd hoped, we found some frogspawn. So much frogspawn. And quite a few frogs, for that matter. Sat quietly by the tarn, we watched as there was the occasional plop in the water and marvelled at those fascinating little amphibians swimming in and out of the reeds. It's made me quite determined to make our garden more attractive to wildlife. Although some might argue, that as it's such a mess at the moment, it already is! I'm thinking of taking some space from the raised bed and using it to sink the small container pond into the ground - any advice on this would be gratefully received. Perhaps I'm over thinking this. If I find that I'm not happy with it, then I suppose I can always change it back again. 

Anyway, I decided to order the table and chairs that I had been looking at, and they will be delivered on Friday. Sadly, the garden didn't get a lot of use last summer, and I'd like to rectify that this year. I was only thinking yesterday, how it feels like a long time ago now that Lily used to get home from school, put her wellies on and go straight out into the garden to play. Her swing still stands beneath the tree. by the dry stone wall, but it's far too small for her now. How time flies.

And talking of time. This week will be 10 years since I started blogging. And I would like to acknowledge it with a little giveaway, as a thank you to all of you who stop by and visit here. I've made some wonderful connections through this space and I really appreciate your friendship.  I would really love it if you would leave a comment, and I will put your name into a draw to win some Lake District themed goodies. I will announce the winner on Friday. 

Have a lovely week.

Back soon. 

J. X

Ordinary Days

It's been another ordinary week. One day has seamlessly blended into the next. I've been focusing on gratitude and simple pleasures and I feel blessed in so many ways. 

Spring has been creeping slowly in. We've enjoyed some lovely warm, sunny days. The countryside suddenly seems much more colourful at this time of year. It's so uplifting to see the blossom on the trees, and lambs appearing in the fields. I still haven't had chance to get out into the garden properly,  but maybe in the next few weeks. Although, I have been eyeing up some new garden furniture online, as I promised that I would treat myself this summer. Nothing fancy, just a little table and some chairs.

Last weekend, we took a short but steep walk up Raven Crag, above Thirlmere. It had been a while since I'd last enjoyed the view there, and with the promise of some blue skies it was too good an opportunity to miss. We set off early, and walked across the dam road, which I always think is the most scenic approach. It was quite cool, so early in the morning, and you can probably just about see the snow on the higher fells. Our short climb was rewarded with an incredible view. A beautiful start to the day, and we were home in time for lunch. 

In other matters, I'm still playing a waiting game. Everything is uncertain and yet I'm feeling more settled than I have in a long time.  What is it they say. Yesterday is gone, tomorrow isn't promised, today is a gift. And with that in mind, today we're off in search of some frog spawn :)

Back soon.

J.X

Still Winter

 

Every morning his week, the birds have noisily announced the start of each new day. It's something I always forget has been missing, until I hear it again. There is no doubt that spring is just around the corner, but defrosting the car mid-week and the snowfall over the higher fells, yesterday, reminded me that winter hasn't quite lost it's grip. Still, it has made a pleasant change from the relentless rainy days we've been having recently. 

The laundry is still being hung up indoors, on the airer, but I'm looking forward to being able to peg it out on the line again, hopefully soon. And as for the state of the garden...it's been far to wet to bother! Instead, I've been focusing any energies, that I do have, indoors. The house is beginning to feel much more manageable, even though I've still some more de-cluttering to get on with, and it's taking up far less head space. Although, I've never been  a hoarder, I just don't like clutter - it makes me feel anxious. And by clutter I mean anything that isn't a sofa, a houseplant or cat. Oh, and my coffee machine - I'm definitely keeping that! I like to live quite minimally. 

During these last few weeks, the rhythm of daily life has been gentle. It's been fairly quiet, with not a lot to write about. On dry days we've enjoyed the occasional walk punctuated with much needed coffee stops, log fires, and some delicious pastries. The lengthening daylight hours bring promise, and I can feel myself starting to relax just a little.

At the end of this month, it will be ten years since I began writing in this space. Much has changed in that time, and yet, somehow, much remains the same. Whatever you are getting up to this weekend, I hope it's a lovely one. 

Back soon. 

J. X

Glimmer

It is still very early as I write this. Dawn is breaking, there is a light dusting of snow on the ground, and I can hear the birds singing, loudly, outside the window. Spring is on the way and it can't come soon enough for me. I don't wish to dwell on things, but it's no secret that I've been experiencing a challenging time, and it has been an incredibly heavy load to carry. Fingers crossed that in another couple of weeks, I will receive the results I've been hoping for and life will return to normal, once again. 

During the week, I found myself almost squealing with delight, as I noticed the lengthening daylight hours. I realise it doesn't happen overnight, but sometimes it actually feels as though it does. For the first time since early November, I could see the edge of the pavement when I left work - yes, I have almost fallen down it on many occasions, and yes, there really should be a streetlight! Something which I believe is getting addressed very soon. 

Having been in a state of hibernation for what has felt like ages now, I was ecstatic to get out walking last weekend. I possibly pushed myself more than I should have under the circumstances, but I can't begin to explain how good it felt. 

The route turned into more of a lengthy adventure, instead of the straightforward hike that had originally been planned. My shins are still covered in some rather impressive bruises from scrambling over the crag, my leg and stomach muscles have finally stopped aching, and my boots have only just dried out. 

But, I felt like I was ALIVE again! 

It was the most wonderful feeling, and I really hope to enjoy more such adventures this year. Although, I may need to invest in some new boots. 

Back soon. 

J. X