While the birds gather for their nests, I too have been gathering for mine in the form of Dandelions for some “Meadow Honey”, or Dandelion Honey, whichever you prefer to call it. The Blackthorn at the end of the garden is covered in delicate white vanilla-sweet scented flowers, I shall look forward to collecting Sloes from it come autumn time. We also have a pair of Goldfinches who seem to have made our garden their home this spring, and many butterflies are already out and about peppering the air with their lovely colours.

Her neighbours, the Wrens, are already restless with their brood who chirp loudly for their supper. She can carry quite an impressive amount in her beak, on some trips her nesting material has been almost big as her. The birds gather for their nests, and I’ve been particularly enchanted by a female Blackbird who has been collecting lots of moss and dried grass, busying herself with creating a new home in our garden hedge. Our Apple tree in blossom The Darling buds, and birds, of May So far I have made some very happy memories with a sortie to my hometown, as well as something sweet for the pantry shelves. May also brings friends, and the return of fun to be had that only warmer weather and a whole day of sunshine can bring.

Heady with the promise of roses and future apples, all through the village the Cherry Trees put on a riot, and the Bluebells bloom in happy swathes in the verges. It brings blossom and buds to our garden. Of all the months of the year, I do think May is my favourite.

The darling buds of may novel