A sudden change in the weather can be exciting. A new season is suddenly thrust upon us with its various challenges, thrills and novelties. Suddenly the house is hot, curtains are drawn against the heat and windows opened at sunset to let the breeze flow through. Summer clothes are hurriedly hunted out, all meals eaten outside.
Take coffee. Coffee is always lovely. But an iced coffee, drunk outside sat in the shade, waiting for a friend? Delightful.
Ditto overnight oats for breakfast, eaten in the shade first thing.
Or any manner of lunches or dinners. This pea, potato, mint and feta frittata was delicious. I made it over half term, when we were digging up our front garden, and knew we'd all need something simple for lunch each day.
There has been a hive of activity in the garden since I last posted. We have - with big help from my parents and other family members - dug up our entire front garden and re-planted it. I will do a whole post about it soon. It was a lot of work but very worth it as it looks beautiful now,
The back garden has been slightly more neglected. These tulips are still in a pot (very much gone over) and I must pull them up and plant something else.
The garden has moved through its May burst of colour, when the rhododendrons are in full bloom, and now colour comes form wallflowers, salvia and geraniums.
My two fig trees are full of fruit and I really hope it ripens. I usually get a handful each summer but would love enough to make fig jam.
The sweet peas are also going great guns. Since I took this photo a couple of weeks ago they have shot up and begun flowering.
As spring tumbles into summer, we watch the seasons change on our dog walks. Blossom is replaced by leaves of the brightest green, ferns unfurl and grow in the woods. and wildflowers are suddenly everywhere.
As always, it is the simple pleasures through which we measure the passing of time. The small moments of contentment which mark the seasons and make the days worthwhile. Gratitude, glimmers, call it what you will - enjoying the small things can get you through a tough day, and long week.
Some lately have included:
The pleasure of a freshly mopped kitchen, doors open to let the air in and a snoozing dog.
Potted basil from the supermarket, which releases the headiest scent when you pick leaves.
Margaritas at my friend Abbie's house to watch Eurovision.
A visit to Cowdray farm shop.
Favourite local walks.
Enjoying a beer, freshly showered, after a day rotavating a dusty garden in sweltering heat. Also enjoying re-watching TwentyTwelve.
A dog who still loves a cuddle even when it is hot, even when he's wearing his hot weather collar.
When the climbing rose blooms.
Brand new Saltwater sandals from Vinted, a fraction of their retail price.
New hats, new books and peonies.
And a boy who turned 17 but still loves Lego. Happy birthday to Angus - funny, thoughtful, kind, clever, and a pretty good cook.
I will be back soon with photos of our front garden. Stay cool during the hot weather everyone.
