Taking Advantage

Skylarks serenaded us as we tramped the fields this morning as they have been doing for weeks now. I know this is more a security operation than a free concert, as they seek to distract prey from their ground-nesting eggs and chicks, but it's still wonderful to witness. As so often happens when we set out under a leaden sky the sun suddenly burst through and dazzled us. Hugo takes it all in his stride, but I send up a silent thanks for both of us.

When we got back Rosemary the postwoman had just arrived at the gate and she handed me a few envelopes. Together we surveyed the front path where overhanging and abundant medlar tree and large viburnum will soon make passage to the front door all but impossible. "Don't worry about me," she said cheerfully. "I'm short and I don't mind brushing my head on the folige." We marvelled at how quickly the trees and bushes have put on their leaves and blossoms. Being out of doors all day and in all weathers, the difference is not so obvious to her, and when she stops and looks she is often taken aback at how advanced the seasons are.

Hugo dragged himself away from her caresses eventually, and we took advantage of the lull in the wind to plant three shrub roses bought earlier this week, and three margarites which I got Nick to chop off the crazily spreading parent plants last week. The latter are down in the bottom bed now, harmlessly filling in spaces which I daresay they will soon dominate. And then it will be off with their heads again. This really is the most thrilling time of year in the garden as all around you green shoots emerge from the closed and silent earth. How they have the strength to poke their heads through the hard soil is amazing. Inside the summerhouse the score is finally dahlia tubers planted 19, dahlias growing 19. Oh, the satisfaction. Soon the more advanced ones can go outside to toughen up when the weather is warmer, and eventually they will all be planted in their permanent places. I've got two beautiful clematis ready to be placed under the obelisks where I hope they will flower abundantly, and a few dozen sweet peas to share the lower rungs with them. Finally, two beehive pots all the way from the Aegean will soon grace the end terrace. All I need to do is find someone who will collect and deliver them for less than £50. Bleedin' cheek!