Don’t Breath a Word………Spring may be on the way.

A bright start. There is also a subtle change to the low morning light today….a very different feel.  It is harsh, cutting through the woods, highlighting every trunk and accentuating the pattern of the bark.  It is also a cold light which emphasises the green tinge of moss that the recent rains have left as a memento of winter.  Nor is the sun doing anything to raise the temperature on what is a colder morning than many this year.

But the high winds have dropped so  I thought I would check out my favourite row of coppiced Beech to satisfy myself that they have come through the storms O.K.  and they have……

Despite the cold, the sun is bringing a hint of spring to the woods.  The Meteorological Office predict a few more days of heavy winds and rain but remind us that their seasonal calendar changes in 6 days time.  Yes, the 1st March for the Met Office, is the first day of Spring…hard to believe at times.  Despite some fallen branches the winds have for the most part swept the woodland floor clean leaving a crisp fresh feel with hope of much new season growth to come…..

To add weight to the seasonal change the Berries of the Ivy are now hardening off to protect the new seeds……..

We just have to wait and see what the rest of the day has in store!

22nd February

© David Oakes 2014