Wednesday 1 September 2010

Spring has sprung

Well, Spring has well and truly sprung here in Hobart, some weeks ago, in fact. I always look forward to the glorious first day of Spring. There's something so hopeful and fresh about it, don't you think? Maybe it's the promise of the lazy, hazy days of Summer to come.

In the Northern Hemisphere it seems to have some extra meaning, I think. When I lived in Germany for a year, I was fascinated to see how there were four distinct seasons. I mean, sure, we have them too but they were far more pronounced over there. Unlike Australia with our plentiful evergreens, so many of the German trees were deciduous. Winter was a drab and sorry affair with hardly any foliage about. You could look right through people's spiky hedges - forget about privacy in Winter! With the arrival of Spring, everything burst back to verdant life. Yes, it was a joyous time.

Let me show you what has brought me joy today. I am captivated by the pretty French vase I was given for my birthday. Today my godmother brought me a bunch of the freshest, cheeriest daffodils I have ever seen. And they look perfect in my vase. Here it is from a few angles so you can revel in its prettiness as well.
A vision of loveliness
 The other side
Here are some closeups.
The Eiffel Tower
Oh, this makes my heart sing!
So, are you feeling jaunty now?! I am, especially when I look out in the garden and spy my pretty hyacinth in full bloom. Ah, yes, my heart is full.
In my favourite old pot bought at Salamanca Market years ago
I'd love to hear about your favourite Spring flowers and how they make you feel. Let's share in the thrill!

Oh, and before it's lights out for me, a number of you have asked for my failsafe pavlova recipe. So here it is, in its photographed glory - let me know if you can't read it properly and enjoy!
Works a treat
Here it is heading for the oven and the finished result.
Mmm, bring it on!
Heaven on a plate
Here's to much licking of the spoon (small children welcome but not necessary) - oh, and lashings of cream and fresh raspberries!

Jane

12 comments:

  1. I love anything to do with France and I love daffodils! Great post! So glad spring has sprung too!

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  2. Oh, Melinda, you have great taste :) Glad it made you smile. J x

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  3. Beautiful pics!! It's still summer here and forever will be. LOL!

    Hi! Stopping by from MBC. Great blog.
    Have a nice day!

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  4. Thanks, Veronica. You lucky thing. And you too! J x

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  5. What a gorgeous vase...and daffodils are so lovely! But those hyacinths take the cake (or pavlova in this case). Hope all is wonderful in your world :)

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  6. Thanks, Steph! Yes, I am surrounded by prettiness. And as for taking the cake, your little stove creation wins hands down this week. I showed it to my husband who may well attempt to make one this weekend, fingers crossed. Will let you know how it goes. J x

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  7. Gorgeous spring flowers! I'm not sure of my favourite but I always love ranunculas. Your hyacinth is so pretty - the smell is amazing I bet :)

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  8. You're right Sarah - you know your flowers! And ranunculas are classics - Dad always grew them when we were growing up. I'm not sure of my favourite either but a fresh bunch of daffies will always brighten my day. J x

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  9. So excited Spring is here too. We only had one nice day and then it has rained ever since! I thought I was following you Jane and then realised I wasnt so now I have a lot of catching up to do!! xx

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  10. Hi Simone Yes, it sounds like you've had a dreadful winter. I think we've had Hobart's mildest one ever :) Thanks for following! J x

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  11. ah those flowers are beautiful!! and that vase! mmm i'm dreaming!

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  12. Glad they made you smile, Kara Lynn. J x

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Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts, you gorgeous soul. You've just made my day! J x

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