NOTES IN MAY

The swallows are back!  They swoop and dive, a pair of feathered fighter jets, catching insects on the wing.The days are long and hot so Lily and I ride out in the cool of the evening, returning by the light of the silvery moon.There are purple orchids out on the down and dog roses in the hedge.  Clouds of chalk hill butterflies dance around us.In the field the elder flowers hang like umbrellas their lacy white heads sending out their sweet perfume.  I gather my wicker basket to make elderflower cordial and gooseberry and elderflower jam.  In ancient folklore it was to be believed if you fell asleep under an elder tree in full bloom, you would be invited into the world of fairies.  I think of my grandchildren who are my little fairies and how I miss them all so much……