Six on Saturday - “Every gardener knows that under the cloak of winter lies a miracle" Barbara Winkler

“Every gardener knows that under the cloak of winter lies a miracle … a seed waiting to sprout, a bulb opening to the light, a bud straining to unfurl. And the anticipation nurtures our dream.”  — Barbara Winkler

It’s been bright and cold but that’s much better than dull and damp. I scour the garden for signs of life and I am reminded what bloomed in the garden last year.

No exciting offerings here, but they gladden my heart. 

Winter Jasmine continues to brighten up the entrance.

The first Bellis flower which promises more to follow.

Calendula grown from seed.  Lots more seedlings in the wings awaiting the warmer weather

Polyanthus also grown from seed a long time ago

The variegated Vinca Major has clambered up the fence

The Abelia is a good doer and has been flowering since July

 Bring it on!

The Propagator generously hosts Six on Saturday.  Click on the link to his blog to see what he and his followers are growing and doing in their gardens this week.  Perhaps you feel you could add your own six too.

Thanks also to the contributors who have cheered up the bleak winter for me.

New Year or more of the same?

 

New Year or more of the same?  Whatever, hope it’s a happy and healthy new year for you.

The shortest day has passed and there are fresh buds and snowdrops showing, which always bring me joy.

The Bank Holiday saw us off to Lytham, St. Anne’s and Blackpool with our flask, sarnies and puppy.  Although very cold with a bracing wind, the sun shone briefly, it was dry and we had the roads and the resorts to ourselves.

We visited Crowther Park in Lytham

 

St Anne's

..... and Blackpool where the illuminations were rather bland as businesses and trams usually add to the atmosphere but we did have the Golden Mile to ourselves.

How did you celebrate?