We are poised for spring.

But hang fire, we have a blanket of snow to plough through first.

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

Hello Friends,

Well, who ordered snow in March?

But let me remind you of the great Beast from the East. Remember that? It hit in March 2018 (I remember this date well as I had just started a new job in a preschool which then closed for a full week because everyone was snowed in their homes!).

At the time, we had a four year old and a one year old, both whom found the snow fascinating. It still is a bit magical isn’t it? But only if we don’t have to drive anywhere.

Curtains pulled back excitedly by the children, they stand on their tiptoes to peer through the icy window out onto the blanket of white that is holding the countryside and changing our view. The wooly sheep are lying down, camouflaged into this new landscape. How do they not get heavy as the snow fills their wool?

Curtains pulled back to groans from the adults who have jobs to get to, school runs with welly boots and change of clothes at the ready and dreams of bringing out their spring wardrobe pushed back a little longer. I am so over the winter wardrobe now.

The toddler and I walked back from the bus stop after safely dropping off her two older siblings, and we took our time fascinated by the many footprints that had been imprinted already despite it being 8.30 in the morning. Seeing the world through a toddlers eyes brings new perspectives on the world around us, from the footprints in the snow which she declared were “Daddy’s” and “Meow’s” (the cat), to her curious questions about shadows. Slowing down to sit on my haunches and look her in the eye as she babbles in that funny toddler chat.

We have been busy planting Sweet Pea seeds and growing them in empty toilet tubes in the house for now, where it is warm. As they start to germinate and grow, we all watch in wonder at this new sign of life hinting at the welcome of spring from inside the house while the outside is still so bitterly cold.

I can’t wait until the time is ready to move these little seedlings outside, feeling that warmth on our faces again and colour returning to our daily walks to the bus stop. It won’t be long I am sure, but for now I am continuing to find the beauty in the ordinary every day tasks, as seen through the eyes of my children.

You may enjoy reading Claire Gardner on Substack for inspiration for your spring garden.

Spring in Northumberland.

To see the best of spring in Northumberland you may enjoy a walk around Wallington Hall NT to witness the stunning crocus lawn before it finishes, a wander through the grounds of Howick Hall or a visit to a favourite farm park like Whitehouse Farm, for the gorgeous baby farm animals!