Spring is so near and yet so far.

Walking round our garden last weekend I noticed a few brave blooms peeping through to see if spring had arrived. Poor little things, I hope they have survived their bravery as snow fell on us on Monday and they were all buried alive.

I ventured outside during the morning but only stayed long enough to find the sweet scented blooms of the hamemalis (witch hazel) hanging like fragile yellow ribbons. They looked as if they were turning their backs on the unwelcome clumps of cold white stuff that had landed on them overnight. But they are hardy souls so I know they will pull through. 

Amazingly the delicate little snowdrops seem to relish the thought of blankets of snow and never look worse for wear. Most of our clumps were buried up to their necks but these brave little blooms had found a sheltered spot under an azalea bush.

 I like to think that long ago,
There fell to earth some flakes of snow
Which loved this cold grey world of ours
So much, they stayed as snowdrop flowers.

This little poem has always been a favourite of mine. I think it's attributed to Mary Vivian.

What a nice warm feeling you get sitting indoors on a day like this. Here is the view from our sitting room window across the patio to the wood beyond.

Logs crackle as a warm fire burns brightly in the grate and I happily nestle in a cosy spot surrounded by.....

....yes, you've guessed it, knitting yarn. And the result of my snowy day spend indoors...

...a little lady who is getting ready to pose for a new 'flutterby patch' banner at the end of the month.

Until next time,
Eli

Comments

[Debbie]

Here in North Devon we have 'Proper' snow for the first time in years! My fourteen year old Son has at last been able to build a snowman and throw snowballs.
Your new little doll has such a pretty face. I will look forward to seeing her in your new blog banner.
Stay warm
Debbie

[Miss VanDroo]

Eli, I love the Witch Hazel...there's a bush at the top of our hill here, and I always know Spring is close when it blooms. It hasn't bloomed like yours has...yet. I adore your latest dolly. Can't wait to see the next banner. Do you sell your knitted dolls?
I *think* I have my Typepad straightened out - thanks for the tip!

[Cathy Santarsiero]

We've had quite a bit of snow here lately. I love what you said about the snowdrop flowers!

[Redwood House]

what wonderful pictures, the witch hazel is beautiful and the snowdrops are always a winner this time of year aren't they.
The poem is delightful I will copy that one down...
Your new little lady looks sweet I love the way you change your banner I look forward to seeing this one later in the month.
Jan

[natalie jo]

That little face peeking out is so cute...I can't wait to see your new banner! I am amazed at the witch hazel and the snowdrops. We've got another month at least before anything will start to sprout around here. As you might imagine I am most envious of your cozy fireplace but I do think your suggestion for a woodstove definately hits the mark in our situation! Thanks for the great idea! (PS-the Yorkshire Tea comes from a mail order distributor of British foods that just so happens to be in my town...Lucky Me! They have a small room open to the public where I love to browse for goodies, especially clotted cream!)

Fondly,
natalie jo

[clarice]

Isn't the snow just magical. Enjoy it becuase it will be gone before you know it. Clarice

[Paula]

Dear Eli,

Such lovely photos!!! The witch hazel and snowdrops are so pretty! I love the sweet poem! The fire looks so delightful, warm and cozy! You have a beautiful view from the inside of your lovely home.

I will never cease to be amazed at your knitting skills. The little lady is just adorable and I look forward to seeing her grace your next banner.

Stay warm!
Love, Paula

[mumintroll]

I love Witch Hazel. In my garden there grows a red one.
The snow drops look so lovely.
I'm so happy that the snow is gone now.
Wish you a happy day

[Maggie]

The photo of the snowdrop is my favourite and the little poem, too.
But arguably, I also like that sweet face peeking out of the basket!
Beautiful little dolly - you are so creative and such a wonderful knitter!