I’m writing this whilst in the air over Geneva. It’s been over a decade since I’ve been to Europe and it was a surprise to see the trees partially clothed with leaves and the golden fields of Rape.

It’s a long time since I’ve completely changed seasons. I don’t actually think of the seasons when we visit Asia – it’s permanently green and lush. Australia – well, if you’re lucky it’s not grey or brown and when you go north it’s not a change of season either as it always looks like that.

So to see the Cherry trees in flower from the plane, and the fresh young leaves on the birches was a lovely sight.  It brought back so many memories of the trips Mum and I did regularly to England all those years ago when we were searching for new perennials to bring back home.  Fields of Rape and Poppies.  Gorgeous fresh leaves and an abundance of European green, all fresh and dainty – not big, bold tropical green.  A different more modest green altogether.  And the avenue of Chestnut trees all in bloom that led to my Great Aunt and Uncles little Dairy Cottage.

The Chestnuts are just coming out now in Madrid. Gosh flowers can evoke so many memories, don’t you find.