Harsh Winter

It's certainly a lot colder in the countryside and we have learnt the hard way that you need to be prepared and brace yourself.

Next year, despite my paranoias, I want a kerosene heater. We bought some electric radiators this year, but, with the fan heaters, there is a lot of electricity being eaten up and we cannot use all together without it all blowing the fuse. So, for the past few months, we have literally been gathered, huddled and wrapped up in the living room staying warm and minimising any visits to rooms not heated.

Still, now we are finally reaching the end of March and we have rays of sunshine! We also have lots of Spring showers, but I would rather forget about that!

 

 I have been able to get back out in the garden, which, to me, is like a new feng shui release.On the bank holiday, I planted some spinach seeds that I found on sale in a quaint, cute local store (I shall have to upload some pictures as no words can describe its uniqueness), as well as some pansies.

Up on the balcony, we have a big cactus surviving happily and this plant, bought last year, and its magically starting its own cycle again. Apparently, it is a plant native to Japan and is seen wild in Gunma prefecture.

 

Today, I threw some sunflower seeds in some planters to see what would happen. I just want to see green and colour, even if there is nothing much. I also got talking to the neighbour again (she is my expert on matters of the garden). She ever so kindly gave me a cutting of this blossoming tree. She called it Obai, although, i can't seem to find a translation for it, so shall just enjoy its cute beauty as it flourishes.

Thank heavens for sunshine.