In Repose

Structure and form are crucial elements for maintaining winter interest in any garden.  Yesterday's early morning inspection, after Friday's heavy snowfall, was fascinating. Pittosporum and hoheiria, both native to New Zealand, appeared to lean forward; elegant, arching branches weighed down by the Snow Queen's gift.

I savour a return to the snowy winters of childhood, allowing plants and the natural world space to rest, time to breathe...  Joyful as it has been to watch the first daffodils unfurl their golden petals and hellebores pushing through the debris of last year's decaying foliage - it is a relief to know that it is okay to stop a while, appreciate the beauty of the here and now as we contemplate the seasons to come.