Storm Doris has passed, leaving behind sodden ground and a garden in a sorry state. Yet, a closer look reveals pretty rain droplets nestling in flower petals like diamonds.  And you discover that the periwinkle has returned for another year, their trails of delicate blue flowers lighting up the undergrowth. Spring must surely arrive soon.

‘Through primrose tufts in that green bower

The periwinkle trailed its wreathes

And tis my faith that every flower

Enjoys the air it breathes’

(‘Lines written in early spring’ W. Wordsworth – source ‘ The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady’)