A beginner’s guide: What to plant in the garden at the end of April!

Now is the time when the garden is waking up, the days feel longer and you suddenly feel like you should be doing something outside, even if you’re not totally sure what. If you’re a beginner gardener, now is usually the point where doubt creeps in and you ask yourself have you left planting things too late or is it still too early? The end of April is actually a perfect time to start planting in a UK garden. You just need to pick the right things and keep them simple.

If you’re new to growing veg, April is actually a great place to start. A lot of vegetables like cooler weather and don’t need perfect conditions to get going.

Potatoes!

If you haven’t planted potatoes yet, you’re not too late. Late April is fine. They’re one of the most forgiving things that you can grow. You can plant them straight into the ground or even into bags or tubs if you are short on space. They don’t need special soil, just dig a trench, pop them in, cover them up and you’re done.

Carrots!

Carrots are perfect to plant at the end of April. They like cooler temperatures and actually do better when they’re not rushed. Plant them directly into the ground or into deep pots. The thing with carrots is not to disturb them too much. Just plant them, water and leave them be.

Beetroot!

Beetroot is another one that doesn't mind the cooler weather and grows easily from a seed. You can plant beetroot straight outside now and keep sowing every few weeks for a steady supply. They don’t need much attention, they grow quickly and you can eat both the root and the leaves.

Lettuce and salad leaves!

If you want quick results, salad leaves are perfect. Lettuce, rocket, spinach and mixed salad seeds can all be sown at the end of April. They grow fast, don’t need loads of space and are great in pots or containers. Plus, you can just pick what you need and leave the rest growing.

Strawberries!

If you only grow one fruit, make it strawberries. They’re perfect for end of April planting and are very forgiving. You can plant them in pots, hanging baskets, grow bags and raised beds. They don’t need loads of space and they start rewarding you pretty quickly, which always helps motivation. Plant them now, keep them watered and by early summer you’ll be enjoying them as dessert.

Blueberries!

Blueberries are great in pots, which makes them perfect for beginners. Plant them in a pot, keep them watered and they’ll be quite happy. They also look nice, so they earn their keep even before fruiting.

Apple and pear trees!

If you’ve got the space, late April is fine for planting container-grown fruit trees. You don’t need a massive orchard. There are plenty of smaller trees or patio varieties that do well in pots. Once planted, they just quietly get on with growing while you feel very proud every time you look at them. They won’t give you fruit straight away but it's worth the wait!

Parsley!

Parsley takes it's time to germinate, so don’t panic if nothing seems to be happening. Sow it now and forget about it for a bit. It’s hardy, survives cool weather and once it gets going, it just keeps giving.

Chives!

Chives are basically indestructible. You can plant them in the ground or in a pot and they’ll come back year after year. They don’t need special treatment and are one of those plants that make you feel like you know what you’re doing, even if you don’t.

Mint!

Mint is easy. Too easy. It will grow pretty much anywhere and take over if you let it. If you’re a beginner, keep mint in a pot. Plant it now and enjoy but don’t let it loose in your borders unless you want mint everywhere.

Flowers are where gardening gets really fun, especially when you’re starting out. Seeing things bloom feels like magic, even if you barely did anything.

Hardy annuals from seed!

Annual flowers can be sown directly outside at the end of April. These are flowers that don’t mind cooler temperatures and will happily grow where you put them. Good beginner choices include: Sweet peas, Cornflowers, Calendula and Nigella! They’re easy, forgiving and don’t mind if you mess up a bit. Scatter the seeds, cover lightly, water and see what happens.

Bedding plants!

You’ll see loads of bedding plants in garden centres by late April and it’s tempting to buy everything! You can plant them out now but be prepared to protect them if there’s a late frost. If you’re unsure, keep them in pots near the house or somewhere sheltered for another couple of weeks.

Perennials!

Perennials are plants that come back year after year and it feels like a bargain once you realise you only have to plant them once. Late April is a good time to plant perennials like Lavender, Hardy geraniums, Lupins and Echinacea. They’ll settle in over spring and summer and reward you later on.

A few beginner tips before you get planting!

You don’t need to do everything perfectly. Gardening is very forgiving, despite what Instagram might suggest.

Don’t overwater. Most plants hate sitting in soggy soil.

Read the seed packet but don’t stress about it.

Start small. You don’t need to plant everything at once.

Expect a few failures. Everyone has them, even experienced gardeners.

The end of April is about getting going, not getting it all right.

So if you’re at that end of April stage where the garden is calling your name but you’re not quite sure where to begin, this is your sign to just start. You don’t need to do everything at once and you definitely don’t need to know all the rules. A few seeds, a couple of pots and a bit of time outside is more than enough.

Are you planting anything this year?

The little things I love about spring! #FridayFavourites

Happy Friday! I hope you’ve had a good week. Mine has been good but I don't have much to share when it comes to the things that I have loved this week. There is a few things but nothing new, that I haven't mentioned over the past few weeks. After answering questions about Spring in The Wednesday Hodgepodge, I had more to add so I thought I would share the little things I love about spring! As always, I’m linking up with Erika and Andrea to share the things that I have loved over the past week.

Don't get me wrong, not every day here over the last week has felt like a spring day. When I started writing this on Wednesday afternoon it was blowing a gale outside, one minute it was sunny and the next there was rain. I'll take it though, the sun is shining more than not and that makes me happy!

So here are my favourite things about spring!

Not having to wear a massive coat!

This is a big one for me. The heavy winter coat makes me feel like I'm carrying around a duvet which is nice in the winter but by now I am so over it. Plus at this time of year the weather is so changeable but a lighter waterproof jacket does the job.

Washing actually drying outside!

I can’t explain how happy this makes me. After months of using the tumble dryer getting the washing out on the line and it actually drying feels like a proper win. It all smells so much nicer too.

Opening the windows again!

This always feels like a turning point. After months of keeping everything shut tight to keep the warmth in it is nice to open the windows and keep them open all day! Fresh air coming in makes the house feel better.

Lighter evenings!

This changes my whole mood. When it’s still light at 6 or 7pm it doesn’t feel like the day is over after tea. There’s still time to do things, even if that thing is just sitting scrolling on my phone but with the window still open!

Easter chocolate!

I say every year that my girls are too old for Easter eggs and every year I still buy them. If all has gone to plan the Easter eggs arrived with the food shopping delivery yesterday. Of course I bought one for my fella and I too. I have been eating Easter chocolate for the last couple of months. Cadbury Mini Eggs and the mini Reese's bunnies are my favourites.

Daffodils are everywhere!

They just turn up and brighten everything, they are such a cheery flower. Even the scruffiest patch of grass looks nicer with a few daffodils in it. I have been buying them and having them delivered with the food shop since the beginning of the year, they are the most inexpensive flower that adds a bit of cheeriness to my living room.

The garden coming back to life!

After the winter where the garden looked a bit sorry for it's self and we forgot about it, the garden is starting to do it's thing again. Little bits of green popping up and the grass is growing fast, my fella has already had to cut it twice but the new 2nd hand lawnmower we have is fantastic. It has a box on the back which collects all the cut grass to make the job easier.

Planting seeds and hoping for the best!

I always get a bit carried away with this. I’ll plant seeds full of hope and good intentions and then forget which is which or forget to water them properly. Some survive, some don’t but it’s still nice to try. At the moment I am very organised and have everything labelled and I am keeping up with the watering. I even have some shoots coming though.

Hearing the ice cream van again!

Even if I don't buy an ice cream from it every time, it's still nice to hear the little tune that it plays. The ice cream van makes me think of my childhood. My brother and I were always allowed to get an ice cream on a Sunday afternoon. It was such a treat! I have not seen our heard the one that usually comes round where I live yet this year but I think this might be the weekend that it reappears.

Random bursts of motivation!

Spring always does this to me. I suddenly want to get jobs done that I’ve been ignoring for months. DIY bits, sorting cupboards, little projects. It doesn’t always last long but I like the feeling of being productive when it lasts!

What is your favourite thing about spring?

My go to rhubarb crumble recipe!

March in the UK means that spring has arrived and what that means is that rhubarb is available! Rhubarb season in the UK usually kicks off in late February and runs through to about June, with the peak often being around March to May!

There are a lot of classic desserts that I love, like sticky toffee pudding, trifle, jam roly-poly but there’s something about rhubarb crumble that makes it stand head and shoulders above the rest, especially at this time of year! This isn’t just any dessert, it’s the kind that makes your kitchen smell like happiness and even the most reluctant pudding lovers come back for seconds. Tart, sweet, buttery and just a touch rustic, rhubarb crumble is without a doubt, one of the best ways to welcome spring into your life and it’s surprisingly easy to make even if you’re not usually a whizz in the kitchen. Did you know that rhubarb is packed with vitamin C, fibre and antioxidants? so you can convince yourself that you are having a treat but you’re also doing something good for your body.

You can serve it straight from the oven with a dollop of custard or with cream or ice cream. Some people even like it slightly warm with a drizzle of golden syrup and for those of us who like to get a little creative, you can mix rhubarb with other fruits like strawberries, which are the obvious choice but oranges, apples and even blackberries work beautifully too.

Rhubarb Crumble Recipe

Serves: 4 to 6 people.

Prep time: 15 minutes.

Cooking time: 35 to 40 minutes,

Ingredients!

For the filling:

500g of rhubarb,

100g of caster sugar (adjust depending on how tart your rhubarb is).

1 tsp vanilla extract (optional).

1 tbsp plain flour (helps thicken the juice).

For the crumble topping:

100g of plain flour.

75g of unsalted butter, cold and cubed.

75g of light brown sugar (or granulated sugar if you prefer).

50g of oats (optional, for extra crunch).

A pinch of salt.

Instructions!

Preheat your oven to 180°C / 160°C fan / 350°F / Gas 4.

Prepare the rhubarb:

Start by washing your rhubarb and chopping it into chunks, about 2 to 3cm pieces. Not tiny bits because they’ll turn to mush but not massive sticks either. You want them to soften but still hold their shape.

Pop the rhubarb into a bowl and sprinkle over the sugar. The sugar isn’t just for sweetness, rhubarb is sharp and the sugar also draws out the juices while it bakes, which helps create that lovely syrupy bottom layer.

Add the teaspoon of vanilla if you’re using it. It just rounds out the flavour and takes the edge off the tartness a bit. It's not essential but I always add it if I have it.

Now sprinkle over the tablespoon of plain flour and give everything a good mix. This is important because rhubarb releases loads of juice when it cooks. The flour thickens those juices so you don’t end up with rhubarb soup under your crumble.

Make the crumble topping:

Put the flour into a bowl and add the cold. Cold is important here. If the butter is soft, you won’t get that crumbly texture and it will go pasty. Rub the butter into the flour using your fingertips. Keep going until it looks like breadcrumbs. Don’t panic if there are a few slightly bigger lumps; those turn into the best crunchy bits on top.

Stir in the light brown sugar. I like brown sugar because it gives a slight caramel flavour and a deeper colour on top but granulated works fine too. Add the pinch of salt. It sounds tiny but it balances the sweetness and makes everything taste better.

If you’re using oats, stir them in now. They add texture and a bit of chew.

Assemble:

Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the rhubarb. Don’t press it down! Just let it sit loosely on top. If you press it, it goes dense instead of crumbly.

Bake:

Pop it in the oven for 35 to 40 minutes. You’re looking for bubbling fruit around the edges and a golden brown top. If the top browns too quickly, you can loosely cover it with foil for the last 10 minutes.

When it comes out, it will be molten underneath, so let it sit for at least 10 minutes before serving. This helps the filling thicken up a bit more too.

Serve it with custard, cream or ice cream but it is delicious on its own too!

Do you like rhubarb crumble?

Spring cleaning your digital life: Decluttering your devices!

 Spring is well and truly here and it's sometimes feeling a little like summer so while we’re all busy sorting out our wardrobes and deep cleaning the house there’s one area we often neglect our digital lives! If your phone storage is constantly full, your laptop takes ages to start up or your inbox has more unread emails than you care to admit then it’s time for a digital declutter!

Here’s how to freshen up your tech and reclaim some space both physically and mentally.

Declutter Your Inbox

That dreaded email notification number doesn’t have to haunt you forever! Start by unsubscribing from newsletters you never read. You can click through each email and unsubscribe or there apps and programmes which do it for you. Next delete old emails you no longer need and create folders for the important ones to keep them in order. I hate seeing a full email inbox, my youngest never clears hers and it makes me cringe when I see that she has thousands of unread emails.

Clear Out Your Phone

How many of your apps do you actually use? Delete the ones you never open, clear out old text conversations and remove duplicate or blurry photos. Transferring pictures to cloud storage or an external hard drive can also free up space. Don’t forget to clear your cache and temporary files for a performance boost! I got a new phone a couple of months ago and it was a great way to start afresh with just having apps that I use.

Tidy Up Your Laptop or Computer

A cluttered desktop is the digital equivalent of a messy room. Organise your files into folders, delete anything outdated and empty your recycle bin. Consider backing up important documents to an external drive or cloud storage to prevent future headaches. I will admit the desktop on my laptop is chaos and cluttered but I do use everything on it.

Sort Through Your Social Media

Spring cleaning applies to your social media too! Unfollow accounts that no longer inspire you and update your privacy settings. If you haven’t changed your passwords in a while now’s a good time to do that too.

Streamline Your Subscriptions

From streaming services to apps and software it’s easy to forget what you’re actually paying for. Go through your bank statements and cancel anything you no longer use your wallet will thank you! For a few months after getting Netflix with our Sky subscription I still subscribed to my account and ended up paying for a few months. Oops.

Refresh Your Digital Workspace

If you spend a lot of time on your computer, give your digital workspace a little refresh. Change your wallpaper, organise your bookmarks and try out a productivity app to keep you on track. A clean, organised space can do wonders for motivation!

Back Up Everything

Now that you’ve tidied up your devices, make sure you don’t lose any important files. Use cloud storage, an external hard drive or both for extra security. You never know when technology might fail you!

A digital spring clean doesn’t just help your devices run better it also helps clear your mind. Less clutter means less stress, so take a little time to refresh your digital life and enjoy the benefits of a more organised, streamlined space.

Do you ever have a digital declutter?

How to make your home smell like spring!

 Spring is here, the clocks have changed, the lighter nights are here, the flowers are blooming and everything feels new. As the world outside feels brighter why not bring those fresh, light, scents indoors too?

I always like to walk into my house and have it smelling good and a spring smell immediately lifts your mood. Here are some easy ways to make your home smell like spring all season long.

Open the windows and let the fresh air in!

It is such a simple way to freshen up the smell of your home but one of the best ways to make your home smell like spring is to let the fresh outdoor air circulate through your house. I open all of the windows and the back door each morning and I let the fresh air in.  After months of closed windows and stuffy rooms it’s refreshing to breath in the crisp spring air. If you're worried about allergens you can use air purifiers or screens to keep things at bay while still allowing the breeze to flow through.

Introduce spring scented candles!

Candles are a fantastic way to bring in the scents of spring. I love burning candles all year and have some that are perfect for spring. Look for candles with fresh, floral or fruity notes. Scents like jasmine, lavender, lilac, peony or citrus fruits like lemon, orange and grapefruit are all perfect for capturing that fresh vibrant feel of the season.

Use essential oils for a natural touch!

If you prefer something a bit more natural or want to avoid synthetic fragrances essential oils can be a great alternative. You can use a diffuser to disperse the scent of oils like lavender, eucalyptus or lemon throughout your home. I use essential oils upstairs and I am loving the fruity scents at the moment. For a more spring like fragrance mix a few drops of lemon or orange essential oil with some fresh rosemary or basil. It creates an energizing and herby aroma that feels just like spring!

Bring in fresh flowers!

Fresh flowers are a no brainer when it comes to spring. Not only do they add colour and beauty to your home but they also fill the air with their natural fragrance. Choose springtime favourites like daffodils, tulips, hyacinths or peonies. I always have a vase filled with daffodils at this time of year, they are cheap and cheerful!

Make your own spring scented room spray!

Room sprays are another great way to refresh your space. You can easily make your own spring scented spray at home. Simply combine water, a few drops of your favourite essential oils (like lavender, rose and citrus) and a tablespoon of rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle. Shake it up and spritz the air to refresh your home. You can also use this spray on pillows, curtains and furniture for an added burst of freshness.

Clean with fresh Spring inspired products!

Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying up; it’s also an opportunity to freshen up your space with new scents. Switch to cleaning products with natural, light fragrances like lemon, pine or eucalyptus. There are plenty of eco friendly cleaning products that not only clean well but also leave your home smelling fresh.

Bake something fresh!

Nothing evokes the feeling of spring like the smell of something fresh baking in the oven. Make something light and refreshing like lemon drizzle cake, fruit scones or a batch of homemade shortbread.

Add a touch of Spring to your laundry!

Spring is a great time to switch up your laundry routine and use a fresh scent. Look for detergents or fabric softeners with light floral or citrus scents or try adding a few drops of essential oils like lavender or rose into the dryer. This simple step will make your home smell fresh and floral all season long.

What do you do to bring that Spring smell into your home?

Spring Bucket List: Activities to do before summer!

It is officially the first day of Spring! Hooray! There’s something magical about spring, it’s that sweet spot between the chill of winter and the heat of summer where everything feels fresh and new! The days get longer, the flowers bloom, and there’s fresh burst of energy (even if the April showers try to dampen our spirits!).

Before summer fully takes over with it's red hot days and busy schedules spring offers the perfect opportunity to slow down and enjoy the little things. Here's a little bucket list of joys to tick off before we swap spring cardigans for summer sandals.

Go on a Spring Picnic - Pack some sandwiches, fruit and a flask of tea and enjoy a peaceful afternoon outdoors. Try and spot some cherry blossoms nearby or go for a walk to see the new flowers blooming!

Visit a Farmer’s Market - Spring produce like asparagus, rhubarb and strawberries are in season! Perfect for fresh and tasty meals.

Bake with Spring Flavours - Try a lemon drizzle cake, rhubarb traybake tart or crumble or hot cross buns to get into the seasonal spirit.

Go for a Bluebell Walk – Find a local woodland where bluebells bloom and enjoy the magical scenery.

Declutter & Refresh Your Home - A little spring cleaning can make your space feel lighter and more inviting.

Plant Something New - Whether it’s a windowsill herb garden, wildflowers for the bees or a tomato plant getting your hands in the soil feels so rewarding.

Have a Rainy Day Movie Marathon - Spring showers? No problem! Snuggle up and watch some comforting films with a cup of tea.

Try a New Hobby or Craft - Spring feels like the perfect time for a fresh start whether that’s painting, knitting or pressing flowers.

Go Out for Afternoon Tea - Treat yourself to some finger sandwiches, scones and a fancy pot of tea. If you don't fancy going out you can even get one delivered!

Switch Up Your Wardrobe - Pack away the heavy winter coats and refresh your wardrobe with light layers and floral prints.

Take a Day Trip - Visit a new town, a National Trust site, or the seaside before the summer crowds arrive.

Read a Book in the Sunshine - Find a cosy spot outside and lose yourself in a good book.

Make a Spring Playlist - Create a feel good soundtrack for the season, full of happy and uplifting tunes.

Have a First Ice Cream of the Year Moment - That first proper ice cream cone enjoyed in the sunshine just hits differently.

Host a Spring Themed Brunch - Serve pancakes with berries, fresh pastries and floral table decorations.

Do a Digital Spring Clean - Organise your phone photos, clear out your inbox and refresh your social media feeds.

Watch a Sunrise or Sunset - The days are getting longer why not soak in a stunning sky?

Write a Spring Gratitude List - Take a moment to appreciate the little joys of the season.

What’s on your spring bucket list this year?

A Guide to Cherry Blossom Season in the UK!

 Spring in the UK brings longer days, warmer weather (sometimes!) and a spectacular show of cherry blossoms. While Japan is famous for its cherry blossoms, the UK also boasts some stunning locations to enjoy this seasonal sight! These delicate pink and white blooms transform parks, streets and gardens into dreamy landscapes for a few precious weeks. I love seeing the pink on the trees and it is a sure sign that spring is on it's way!

If you’re hoping to catch cherry blossom season in all its glory, here’s everything you need to know.

When is Cherry Blossom Season in the UK?
Cherry blossoms typically bloom between late March and early May depending on location and of course weather conditions. The peak bloom usually falls around mid to late April but this can vary each year. Warmer areas in the south tend to see earlier blossoms, while northern regions bloom a little later. The blossoms only last for a couple of weeks, so timing is key if you want to catch them at their best.

The best places to see cherry blossoms in the UK!

London:
Kew Gardens - A stunning display of cherry trees, including the famous Cherry Walk.
Greenwich Park - The avenue of cherry trees near the National Maritime Museum is breath taking.
Regent’s Park - Look out for the blossoms in Queen Mary’s Gardens.

Edinburgh:
The Meadows - One of the most famous cherry blossom spots in Scotland, with an enchanting walkway of pink trees.
Princes Street Gardens - A beautiful mix of cherry blossoms and a stunning view of Edinburgh Castle.

Cardiff:
Bute Park - A picture-perfect spot with plenty of cherry trees lining the pathways.

Birmingham:
Cannon Hill Park - A fantastic place to see cherry blossoms along with lakes and green spaces.

Nottingham:
University of Nottingham Campus - Known for its stunning sakura trees, especially around Highfields Park.

Other notable locations:
Alnwick Garden (Northumberland) - Home to the largest collection of Taihaku cherry trees in the UK.
RHS Garden Wisley (Surrey) - A beautiful mix of Japanese and British cherry blossoms.
Hever Castle (Kent) - Cherry trees set against a historic castle backdrop.

Tips for enjoying cherry blossom season!
Check bloom forecasts - Follow local parks or social media updates for peak bloom times.
Go early or on weekdays - Avoid crowds and get the best photos.
Pack a picnic - Enjoy the blossoms with a relaxing lunch under the trees.
Respect nature - Avoid shaking branches or picking blossoms to keep them intact for everyone.

Take lots of photos - Cherry blossoms make for stunning photographs, so don’t forget your camera!

Cherry Blossom festivals & events!
Some locations hold special cherry blossom festivals, inspired by Japan’s Hanami tradition. Keep an eye out for Japanese themed events in gardens like Kew or check if your local botanical garden has any cherry blossom celebrations.

Cherry blossom season is short but spectacular, making it one of the most eagerly anticipated times of the year. I always look forward to seeing the blossom trees in our local churchyard. So whether you're strolling through a park or planning a special trip to see them, take a moment to soak in the beauty of these delicate blooms.

Is there or will there be any cherry blossom near you?

This or That: March Edition!

 We are well and truly into March and spring is almost here. March is a month of change one minute it’s cold and drizzly, the next you’re debating if it’s time to ditch the coat. I didn't think I was a fan of this month but I am really enjoying it. We've had pancakes, warmer weather and still have mother's day to come at the end of the month and the clocks changing so the days will get longer but now it's time for some this or that questions!

Rain showers or blustery winds?

Rain showers! Showers mean they stop and start so they're not as bad as relentless rain. I hate the wind, I always worry about things being blown around the garden, it makes me nervous.

Daffodils or cherry blossoms?

Ohhh, tough choice. I would say cherry blossom if it lasted a bit longer so I will go with daffodils, they are probably my favourite flowers. They're so bright and cheery.

Pancakes with lemon & sugar or maple syrup?

Lemon and sugar! Maple syrup is nice but lemon and sugar makes me think of when I was a child. I only ever make pancakes on pancake day, they should be made and eaten more!

Spring allergies or still dealing with winter colds?

Ugh! Still dealing with a cold, at least I know I will get better eventually! I get spring allergies which continue into the summer and they are no fun at all.

Umbrella or just risk getting wet?

I would love to be a person who uses an umbrella but I end up just saying stuff it and risk getting wet. Umbrellas are a faff. 9 times out of 10 it's too windy to use one and I always end up leaving them somewhere.

Still eating winter comfort food or switching to lighter meals?

I am already thinking about lighter meals. Quiche, salad, tuna pasta, seafood and things like that! I love comfort food but also like lighter things when the weather is warm. No one wants to be in a hot kitchen cooking.

Carrot cake or banana bread?

Carrot cake! The answer is always carrot cake to any question about cake. hehehe

Green outfit for St. Patrick’s Day or just not bothered?

I don't bother with St. Patricks Day, here it just seems an excuse to go to the pub and get drunk. 

Buy fresh flowers or potted plants?

Fresh flowers although I have been looking into buying some potted plants for the garden.

Visit a garden centre or a bookstore?

A garden centre, always! Bookstores are lovely but they don't interest me.

Spring cleaning blitz or just tidy as you go?

I love a spring cleaning blitz, especially when the sun is shining giving me some motivation. I turn the music up and it's the only time I actually enjoy cleaning! 

Shopping for new spring clothes or using what’s already in your wardrobe?

This year I will be using what is already in my wardrobe. I bought quite a few outfits last summer which will be great for the spring too.

Fresh citrus scents or floral springtime scents?

I love citrus scents so I would choose them. Floral scents always makes me think of my allergies.

What would you answer for these This or That questions?

This week my Word of the Week is: Bright! #WotW

This week my Word of the Week is:

I am glad to say that last weeks happy mood has continued into this week. I have had another great week, the sun has been shining bright and all is good in my world! Even the washing basket is almost empty as I have been getting the clothes out drying on the line. I said in my Wednesday Hodgepodge post that one of the reasons that I love March is the gas and electricity bills go down and I have noticed that already with not having the heating on as much and using the tumble dryer. I did check the online energy account and think we will skip paying next month as we are so much in credit. Yay!

I feel like I have been really productive and I am thanking the sunshine! I have been waking earlier in the morning and I feel like I have more energy. I always say I don't suffer from Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) but I think the weather really does affect my mood. I am sleeping better and for the first time in a long time, this week I felt like I've had enough sleep.

I have been out and about this week, I've probably had more time outside this week than I have in the last month! I went to my dad's on Monday. He bought what he thought was a monitor for his office computer from the local auction but it turns out it's an all in one PC and monitor. He only paid a few pounds so he got himself a bargain but needed Stu to help set it up. While we were there we helped with a few other things on his computer. My dad isn't the greatest with online things but one thing even baffled me, thank goodness for a phone number to ring to get a little help.

I've spent lots of time in the garden, trying to look at the planets that were aligned last week, I only saw Venus. Hmmf. I have been standing out there with a cuppa in the morning, the garden has been tidied and I weeded the flower beds. I should have waited until Thursday to do the garden though, it felt like the warmest day of the year so far.

I do love this time of year with spring and summer ahead of us and we have been making plans. Becky is well and truly spoiling me for Mother's Day! We're going to be having a night away later in the year, just the two of us. We're just waiting for the tickets to go on sale so she can book the hotel. I was also browsing Facebook the other day and saw a camping festival later on in the summer and I thought that sounds like fun. It's not a big one like Glastonbury but there will be music, nice food and it's something tick off my 50 before 50 bucket list. We will deal with sleeping in a tent when it happens, I am not too excited at the thought of that. hehehe

I am not feeling too bright at the moment, I woke up yesterday feeling rotten, well that's not exactly right, I went to bed not feeling 100% but shrugged it off. Yesterday I woke up aching and feeling meh! I have had a cough and a bit of a snotty nose for the last week but put it down to early hay fever but no, it has turned into a big, fat horrible cold. Hmmf. Yesterday I hardly moved from my armchair and today I am not planning on doing much if I am feeling the same. 

How has your week been? I hope you have had a good one! I am of course linking up with Anne who blogs at Raisie Bay for her Word of the Week linky!

A hedgehog guide for families!

Hedgehogs are one of Britain’s favourite familiar faces found in our gardens, parks, and farmland. Although these adorable little creatures seem to be everywhere due to a decline in rural habitats almost one third of the national hedgehog population has been lost since the 2000’s which is a real shame. That’s why we must do everything we can to protect the hedgehogs and one way we can do that is by turning our gardens into hedgehogs favourite spaces to be.

It is spring and wildlife experts and lovers, Green Feathers have put together a handy guide on how to prepare your garden for the best time of year, hedgehog season. 

Hedgehog season (or mating season) is the most crucial time for hedgehogs. It begins in April and can last all the way to September although peak breeding months are in May and June. Usually a female will be met by seven hoglets who will nest all together in a layer of leaves and grass until the hoglets leave the nest four to five weeks after being born. Throughout this season and especially up until this point, try to keep leafy and unkept areas of your garden as undisturbed as possible. 

Hedgehog highways!

The first step to creating a hedgehog friendly garden this Spring is to embrace the open road by creating a hedgehog highway. They are nomadic creatures and can roam up to two miles every night. However one reason their numbers are declining is due to the reduction in access they have to land. By creating a hedgehog highway or a small gap in your fencing to allow them to pass through your hedgehog can roam far and wide. This gap should be around 13 square centimetres, perfect for hedgehogs, but not for the larger mammals you want to keep out! 

Going wild!

Despite their innocent faces hedgehogs are carnivorous animals and roam at night in the search for small insects such as beetles, worms, slugs, earwigs, and millipedes. Sometimes they’ll even eat baby birds, frogs, snakes and bird's eggs. They are friends to gardeners as they eat the bugs! Hooray!

The best way to bring insects into your garden is by keeping your garden healthy and bio diverse through letting it grow wild. To do this you can: 

Start by growing insect friendly plants and wildflowers such as foxgloves, and hawthorn.

Avoid cutting the grass, and keep parts of your garden unkept and wild in patches.

Create a compost heap to create the perfect environment for worms, slugs, millipedes, and beetles.

Start a bug hotel to attract a diverse amount of bugs into your garden. 

Do the rounds!

Before the start of the season, do the rounds and rid your garden of any potential hedgehog hazards. Check for the following potential hazards which you can tick off your list one by one:

Avoid man made dangers or anything a hedgehog could get trapped in or fall into.

Don’t use any pesticides.

Don’t put down any slug pellets.

Although hedgehogs are keen swimmers, hedgehog proof garden ponds and swimming pools by fencing them off, or creating sloping sides so that they can easily get in and out.

Clear your garden of any nets, traps, and toys. 

 

From house to home!

Planting hedges can be a great alternative to fencing. Not only do they provide more shade, absorb noise and dust, they also provide better shelter to all forms of garden wildlife. They can promote better soil, attract insects, and usually allow for leaves to gather at their sides which provide a great nestling spot.

Another great way to provide a cosy home for these animals is to place a wooden hedgehog house in the garden. They provide safe, robust, and secure shelter where they can hunker down for winter or get ready for mating season. 

Mindful Maintenance!

Once you have prepared your garden for hedgehog season, remember a little bit of maintenance goes a long way. Keep pruning and gardening to a minimum, and keep the lawnmower and strimmer locked away in the garden shed. Try to disturb them as little as possible by doing your bit to keep nature thriving. 

To give a helping hand here and there you can put out small bowls of water for easy drinking access and small portions of meaty cat or dog food in the evening to make sure they’re well fed and hydrated. Better yet, set up a wooden hedgehog feeding station which keeps the food safe and hidden from other animals, perfect for a night in and meal for one! 

Do you get hedgehogs in your garden?

How to adjust to the clock change for healthier sleep!

As we prepare to move our clocks forward for daylight savings this Sunday reports have came in that the average person may lose up to 40 minutes of sleep. I hate the clocks going forward for that lost hour of sleep but it's not all bad as the days are longer and it means summer is on it's way!

Did you know that daylight is the natural regulator of our circadian rhythms. Even just an hour's change in our metabolism can disrupt our internal clocks, putting excess strain on the brain and nervous system. In fact the week following the time change delivers a 24% rise in heart attacks, an 8% rise in strokes and a 6% rise in fatal car accidents. Eek!

6 tips to avoid sleep disruption during daylight savings!

1. Change your night time routine before the clocks change.

A little planning can help. To help minimise the impact of the time change, try to have your evening meal earlier and go to bed 30 minutes earlier for a few nights before the time changes. Amending night time routines before daylight savings will help ease the transition into the time change. 

2. Go to bed earlier the night the clocks change.

Where possible, on the night of the time change, go to bed an hour early. By doing this you are able to keep the hour that will be lost at 1 am on Sunday 31st of March, meaning you will not lose out on any sleep, making the transition into daylight savings easier to adjust to.  

3. Get as much early morning sunlight as you can.

For the week following the time change try to get as much early morning sunlight as possible to help your body readjust to the new time. The body’s circadian clock responds to sunlight and by taking in natural sunlight you feel more refreshed and energised for the day ahead.

4. Keep a consistent sleep routine.

By keeping a consistent bedtime and waking up at a similar time every day, your body will find it easier to adjust. Aim for at least 7 hours of sleep alongside this to help hit the ground running when the clocks do change.  

5. Avoid caffeine close to bedtime.

As much as you may enjoy a caffeinated drink it can cause a disruption to sleep patterns. To limit any disruption to sleep, try and keep caffeine consumption to the mornings and early afternoon at the latest.

6. Nap if you need to.

If the clock changing has left you feeling very tired consider having a nap during the day to help catch up on some of the lost sleep. It is recommended to keep daytime naps short and sweet with 20 minutes being the optimal time for a power nap. A general rule of thumb is to opt for no more than a half an hour nap to ensure that you will be able to get to sleep at bedtime. 

Do you hate the clocks going forward or do you cope OK with the time change?

This helpful advice came from Brain Works Neurotherapy.

10 wonderful things about spring!

Ahh! It's the first day of spring here in England. A time of renewal, rejuvenation, and rejoicing in the beauty of nature. As the weather starts to get warmer, the cold winter becomes a distant memory there's a sense of excitement in the air! I am trying not to get excited about the weather that we have had this week but it has been really spring like. Yesterday it was 16C which is just perfect for this time of year.

The weather.

The weather is so unpredictable, spring is when mother nature decides to play hide and seek with the sun. One moment, you're enjoying some sunshine on your face and the next you're dodging raindrops the size of peas. Hopefully soon we can say goodbye to bulky coats and hello to sunshine!

The flowers.

From the daffodils that carpet the countryside in shades of yellow and gold (they are my favourite flower) to the emergence of bluebells in woodlands and forests across the country. They are all so pretty but of my favourite sight to see is the cherry blossoms that have just started to appear here although all of nature springing back to life really sets my hay fever off. 

Birdsong.

As the birds return from their winter away, the air is filled with the sweet melodies of their songs. As much as I complain about the birds waking me up on a morning it is a sound that I associate with the warmer weather. I just hope they don't nest in the eaves of our roof again. 

Getting back into the garden.

As the earth begins to thaw gardeners across the country eagerly dust off their trowels and get to work in their allotments and gardens. I do love this time of year, sorting the garden and planting new things. In a couple of weeks we will have our annual trip to the farm shop to buy some bedding plants for the planters outside the front of our house which I am really looking forward to.

Spring Cleaning.

Cleaning isn't the most glamorous activity but there's something satisfying about decluttering and freshening up your home after a long winter. I always enjoy cleaning at this time of year, especially when I have all the windows open. It makes my home feel fresher and cleaner. Getting the washing out on the line is a big bonus too.

Longer days.

With the arrival of spring comes longer days. As much as I think I like the dark nights when they first arrive I do like the lighter evenings, the ice cream man driving around and spending evenings sat in the garden. I am sure in a couple of months we will be visiting the pubs beer garden to enjoy a couple of drinks on an evening too.

Baby Animals.

Is there anything cuter than a fluffy baby animal? From new born lambs frolicking in the fields to fuzzy ducklings waddling by the pond, spring is full of adorable critters that are sure to melt your heart.

Easter Celebrations.

Whether you're religious or not Easter is a fun! From colourful egg hunts to chocolate eggs there's plenty of joy to go around during this egg-citing time of year. There is the long Easter weekend to enjoy to which is at the end of this month.

Outdoor Adventures.

With the arrival of warmer weather, it's time to get outside! Whether you're exploring a nearby forest, biking along scenic paths or simply taking a walk through the park. I always have more motivation to get outside at this time of year. 

A Sense of Joy.

Last but certainly not least, spring just has a way of putting a smile on your face. Maybe it's the sunshine, maybe it's the flowers or maybe it's just the promise of warmer days ahead!

What are your favourite things about spring?