Signs of spring

In spite of all this rain the garden seems to be flourishing and greenery appearing very early on some perennials. I saw a wren dashing about this morning and watched a female blackbird enjoying a great splashy bath - I wish I dried out so quickly after a shower! Lots of spring flowers appearing - mahonia smelling gorgeous, crocuses, snowdrops, the first primroses - so early - and pink and white hellebores. The latter really do seem to thrive on neglect. I wish I had more space for them. At the front the iris unguicularis is putting out masses of delicate blooms. The greenhouse seems to be holding together but the winds have caused some serious fencing problems - next door's fortunately for me - but still needing serious attention. Have located suppliers of rustic poles to repair the trellis so that's a project for the list! :http://www.barlowsofhermitage.co.uk/