After a long winter, I want to come out of hibernation, to enjoy evening walks along the beach, to venture into the garden and prepare for a new season. I want to pack away the winter woolies, the greys and blacks, and bring out the cottons and silks, the pastels and the jewel colours, the dresses and sandals. I want to feel the sun on my skin, a warm breeze in my hair, the sand under my feet.
Instead, winter is reluctant to let go its grasp on the countryside. After a few warm sunny days, it's back to cold showery weather, raincoats and scarves.
But the swallows have arrived. Maybe they know something we don't and perhaps my wishes will come true.
In the meantime I content myself by bringing spring indoors.
