Here we are, well past the Spring Equinox, but only just beginning to feel warmer. Sure the days have been lengthening but cold winds have prevailed, and after a long hard winter we're all longing for some sunshine!
I lost my Mother this winter. At the time of deepest snow she left her body, so Spring's arrival is particularly poignant for me this year. I think of her every day as I go out into the garden - she so loved her own garden in her final years, before a nursing home became inevitable. Her death was a humbling experience for many reasons, but I am left with a sense of peace after her passing and gratitude for what she gave me.
Now each day seems more precious than ever. And living in the moment seems to be very natural. What point in worrying about what lies ahead or regretting the past. None at all. My woodland garden is full of primroses. They have withstood the buffeting winds and seem to me a symbol of hope. As ever, the world and it's clamour are there, but beauty is all around us if only we open our eyes. The world is full of miracles if negative thinking and doubt don't get in the way. We may not be able to change what life throws at us, but we can change our response to it.
So let's be positive about the long hot summer that may well lie ahead. At the very least there will be some quintessentially English summer days which will put a smile on our faces!
