Although March started late, there being an extra day in February this leap year, there’s been lots going on.
In the first week heavy winds brought down trees which then needed to be cleared. This was an extension to the normal logging routine which is coming to an end as summer approaches.
Cousins arrived for a gathering. It was a special treat to have so many come over to Ireland to commemorate 100 years since the birth of Joan Brunt (nee Butler). Although it was a short trip, it was perfectly timed to coincide with the weekend that fishing would normally have opened. (There is restricted fishing on most rivers with many beats and clubs not fishing at all this year as a conservation measure.)
In the second week of March, our friend Gerry died unexpectedly. It was a shock to me as he has been a good friend. There is a small tribute here.
And then half term arrived! With a long weekend of St Patrick’s day festivities to start it off. Our schedule changes a bit during the holidays so that we can do things with the children a bit more and it has been fun playing and working in the garden and woods when the weather has been fine. The pinnacle must have been when our lunatic children went swimming in the river a few days ago. Actually it was very tempting to jump in too, but I think I’ll wait at least till May. Global warming hasn’t yet worked its magic on the temperature of the Slaney in spring. Easter weekend was also during the holidays and another excuse for fun. And it was a special treat for us to have my sister visiting to help give the traditional barbecued pascal lamb the appropriate attention.
March saw the spring equinox and the clocks going forward an hour. Signs of spring are now evident all over. Daffodils, camellia are waning, magnolia are blooming, and trees are budding. In a couple of weeks dandelion will be all over. Birds are busy and you can hear them singing the joys of spring. It has been busy in the garden with much preparation of the ground and planting. Onions, tomatoes and broad beans are sprouting and we’ve planted potatoes, beetroot, parsnip, garlic too. (Praise be for that 2-wheel tractor!) Much more to go in in the coming weeks.
The first yoga courses finished and the next round will start again in a couple of weeks.
There’s another video of mountain biking in the woods on line here. And we should have a garden tour video up in a few days.
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