Hopefully up and running again!

Many of you know I have been having difficulties with my computer for some time now and comments on my last post advised me that Firefox was the way to go! A big thank you to all of you. I have now downloaded Firefox and - so far, so good!

I have really missed blogging and visiting blogworld friends so I'm hoping that in future I won't be having the trouble encountered recently. I know too that some of you have been having problems with my site. I honestly don't know if things will improve for you now - I do hope so.

Anyway - I have been taking some photos in the garden recently so here is a photographic update. Don't forget you can enlarge any photo by clicking on it.


There has been a lot of activity in and around this nest box and we are very hopeful of seeing some baby blue tits any time soon.




The beautiful goldfinches are still visiting although this picture is a few weeks old (the tree is still in bud in the photo)



Here a pair of young blackbirds are sharing some apple - I always feel sorry for the young birds when they first visit the garden as they stand around, seemingly wondering what to do next!




squirrel tries to get his balance




before getting into the birdhouse for breakfast



but sometimes just likes to sit in the basket




In the pond the tadpoles are doing well



and the kingcups put on a wonderful display




We have had some primula




some orange flowers (don't know what these are called) and in the winter lovely orange berries



and this flower is always lovely - I think it is called ajuga (bugle) - an excellent ground cover plant




these little roses have a delicate scent and are so pretty



For me seeing aquilegia in flower is a real sign of summer on its way



With a bank holiday looming again and an assurance from the weather man of some sunshine I am hoping to get some more work done in the garden this weekend. Next week I have two celebration cakes to ice and decorate so then any work outside will have to wait.

In the garden this week

There is lots to see in the garden now and even though the daffodils are almost over there are plenty of other spring flowers appearing almost every day.


A bergenia and a few celandines




the camellia is fully out now




there are masses of violets




and some pretty cowslips




I was delighted to find this fritillaria - only ever seem to get one




our magnolia tree is now in full flower and looks magnificent (I took this picture from an upstairs window)




In the pond the tadpoles are growing fast




this frog is only about 2 inches long - must have been one of last year's




The colourful goldfinches like to feed here




and so does the squirrel




Mr Blackbird likes a daily dip




and who do you think this is having a bath?




Robin had a good soak!


and later when we were in the garden we were able to hear him singing - lovely.