Signs of Spring

We are in the middle of a cold wintry snap, but there are signs in the garden of approaching spring.

Andy has been busy keeping things neat and tidy. We now have a garden feature. Current debate is over whether it will be a bird bath, a bird feeder, plant holder or something completely different.

Here is the referkled outdoor table. Note the good crop on the lemon tree.

On Sunday we went for a walk through the Gardens. I don't think I've seen so many sparrows hanging around in a tree before. It was by the cafe so maybe they were hoping for some crumbs.

It happened to be the 70th anniversary of the bombing of Nagasaki. We paid our respects at the Peace Flame.

I hadn't noticed the Hiroshima Stone before.

Up on the ridge leading to the Cable Car there was a view of snow on the Orongorongos.

Although it was a cold grey day St. Gerard's Monastery caught the late afternoon sun

although most of the city was in shadow.

This time next week we will be well on our way to meet up with the family in England, Wales and Ireland. When we return at the end of September spring should be well established in the southern hemisphere and the north will be sliding into autumn. The wonder of the cycle of the seasons.