Rain

A week ago I was walking at Osmaston, with the club. The sky threatened rain, but we were lucky to get to be able to enjoy our lunch, sitting under the trees at the edge of a wood, before the dark clouds overhead sneaked up on us from behind, the temperature dropped by a few degrees, the wind got up and the rain started. Setting off again, all protected against the wet, the shower was soon over, and we were soon too warm in our waterproofs. The trees were just bursting into fresh, new foliage, and the field boundaries a froth of white blossom. Marsh marigolds brought a splash of gold to the marshy edges of a brook.

Potato planting has continued across the road from our house. Just look at that clear blue sky - just a couple of days ago.

Today it's grey and wet, but the water butts are full and the veg seeds on my plot are getting a good watering. As I write, it's becoming lighter and the sun is trying to come out. After all, it is April.

Yesterday was our youngest son's birthday. As he is gradually recovering from a sports related injury he has now just sustained a finger injury whilst disposing of rubbish down at his local tip, and is looking a little like ET with his digit supported by a splint. At this early stage, the jokes must already be wearing a bit thin, as I know he is rather p.....d off. Still, last night we celebrated at home, with the meal of his choice, prepared by mum. This included rhubarb and plum crumble - made with the new season's rhubarb from the plot, and plums that I'd bottled last year. Actually, when I opened this jar of plums, they rose to the top and the liquid suddenly began to flood out everywhere. Luckily I was working near the sink, where I'd just placed a handy pyrex bowl. The plums tasted fine, but it looks like the liquid was beginning to ferment. Perhaps, if left until the weather had warmed up, the jar could possibly have exploded in my pantry. I can't bear to think what a mess it would have made. A quick check revealed that it was the last of the bottled fruit. I think I'll freeze all of it this year.

Tomorrow my nephew Ali and his wife Sarah are flying to the USA, and the following week, on their first wedding anniversary, start out on an awfully big adventure. Starting in Southern California at the Mexican border, they will spend six months walking 2,650 miles along the Pacific Trail Crest, until they reach the Canadian border. We wish them all the very best, as they tackle everything from high mountains, snow and ice, to hot and dry deserts, plus all types of wildlife from bears to snakes. Their progress can be followed on Ali's website afowler.co.uk (Alasdair Fowler Photography). Stay safe Ali and Sarah and we are expecting some even more amazing photos from you.

Now it's grey and pouring down.