Notes from Nick!

The First Signs of Spring

Last weekend as I worked splitting logs watched by our chickens that were basking lazily in the winter sun, all around I could see and hear spring gently waking.

Our road verges were no longer blanketed in snow but rather in Snow Drops their heads bowed softly towards the sun. The fresh green shoots of daffodils peaking through the Snow Drops waited patiently for their turn to show off whilst the deep purple crocus practised their ‘Salutation to the Sun’.

I watched a Bank Vole cheekily stealing sunflower hearts from the bird table outside the kitchen window; apparently squabbling with a Chaffinch who was unimpressed by his uninvited dinner guest. Our voles haven’t been around for most of the winter but now with a little warmth they are starting to stir again. They were both joined by guests old and new. There were the bright vibrant colours of the Goldfinches, beautiful speckled markings of a pair of Song Thrushes, long tailed tits festooned through the honeysuckle like discarded knitting; pink balls of wool with needles sticking out. The Woodpecker was drumming away merrily on the telegraph pole at the bottom of the garden.

Beyond the garden, beneath the still slumbering oaks there were carpets of soft yellowy Primroses smiling at the spring. Even the Duddon was bubbling and burbling a softer, kinder song.

There were the first lambs in the field, still swaying and staggering as they gained confidence. It wouldn’t be long before the lamb gangs would be charging round the field exploring everything and up to no good. In the far corner of the field a group of rabbits sat, ears pricked, watching the sheep go about their business.

The distant fells, the last vestiges of the winter’s snow desperately clinging to the summits, as though in denial of the start of spring, looked inspired. They appeared to be closer or higher, somehow standing taller as though awoken after winter.

Later, as our talk turned to summer holiday destinations I remembered my day and I wondered why I would ever want to go anywhere else on holiday. Then the thought struck me; if I never went away I would never miss home and how lucky I am.

Regards,

Nick