Tuesday, March 31, 2026

Is it spring or not?

Sometimes, I honestly don't know what to write on my blog. At this time of year when spring is still in two minds as to whether it's going to be shy and vascillate or to go into full-on bloom, I feel in the same state of suspended animation myself. First we had warm days and the blossom bloomed, but then it changed its mind and we had bitter cold with snow, followed by overnight thunder storms and gales. Even yesterday we were having icy winds and hail. It cannot make its mind up and, as a result, neither can I.

Yes, it's true we've been doing some work on the boats when the weather has permitted, and yes, I've planted some pretty petunias in the pots and boxes in front of CC Mk1, but the will to get on with the jobs I actually want to do is still wavering. 

I really should do a few things this week, though, because from next week on I have a very busy couple of months of work, added to which we want to spend a bit of time in France (petrol prices permitting). Maybe by writing my intentions down it will spur me on to tidy up the garden and plant some annuals there too. Maybe I'll also sand down the doors and frames in the cottage so I can repaint them – a job I've been procrastinating about for some time. Perhaps I'll also finish the book I'm writing although I still have roughly a third of it to go. Maybe I'll do all of these, or none. And then, I have that exam to take...

I'll see what tomorrow brings and keep my fingers crossed that the weather will be kind enough to give me some time outside. For now, though, I'll leave you with a few photos. These five could make me believe March has been beautiful. In truth, it's been like that curate's egg: just good in parts, but those parts have at least given me views like this, so I'm not complaining!


Early morning from the cottage

Across the harbour from Vereeniging

The big passing sea ships are a constant marvel

Lovely rural walks with Zoe

A bird watching post at the nearby nature reserve


Enjoy the rest of your week allemaal and I'll be back with something of substance soon!  

14 comments:

  1. I love Across the Harbor picture!! The weather can’t make up its mind in Florida—last night when I was outside in shorts and shirt to watch the launch I was freezing—it was probably in the low 70’s but the wind was blowing (I know that sounds crazy but in the daytime the temp was near 90. Good luck with all you need to do!

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    1. Ah, yes. I know that feeling. Temperature is always relative, isn’t it? I remember feeling cold when it was 70F in South Africa when the day before it had been close to 100F. Thanks so much for your comment!

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  2. Spring or not, the pictures are lovely, Val. especially the blue skies and clouds. 🤩

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  3. Gorgeous photos Val. Your views are breathtaking: what wonderful clear blue skies. I notice Winter is lingering in the Northern Hemisphere while Summer lingers here. Perhaps we will get quite a cold shock when Winter eventually comes to us. Good luck with the exam and I hope you get to France! Happy Easter

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    1. Many thanks, Trish! I hope the shock of winter isn’t too severe for you. We could do with some of your warmth now!

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  4. If I had to do all that you have to do, dear Val - I would have no idea where to begin! You are amazing. Hopefully spring will actually spring for you...and for the rest of us! Whatever you decide to do - it will be done well. And if you decide to rest - rest is good! God bless. (Steph)

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    1. Thank you so much, dear Steph. My life is not eventful at the moment, but real spring weather would be a great lift!

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  5. Your blog posts never fail to bring a smile! Sending you and Koos mountains of love xx

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    1. That was me, Dale, but I’m sure you figured that out xx

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    2. Dale, the mountains of love gave me a clue. Thank you, my very dear friend. It's lovely to see you here in blogland again. I'm so glad my posts make you smile. If I could leave no other legacy in this world, I'd be happy with that one. Making people smile today is the best gift we can give right now. xxx

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  6. Your pictures are lovely. I think of you as focused and driven. Heck you just need to read your first book to know that! I have no doubt that you'll finish your book while paint dries and flowers bloom. Cx

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    1. Oh Patti, bless you. You've just revived my spirits more than you will ever know. Thank you so much xxx

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    2. Awww. You're welcome! Xxx

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