On my previous post, one follower commented ‘I can’t wait for the daffodils’. Well here they are in and around Newton Solney.
Church Lane, Newton Solney
The avenue of trees is Church Lane which once was an essential thoroughfare leading to fords in the nearby River Trent which could have been crossed on horseback. St. Mary the Virgin’s church is the oldest building in the village and was originally a “chapel of ease”, one of eight such chapels owned by Repton Priory in 1271. A “chapel of ease” was one where parishioners could worship to save them from having to travel to the parish church.
Collecting our granddaughter from school yesterday was meant to be just that and not a photographic expedition. However, when we arrived at this grassy bank, now bursting into life with spring flowers, I couldn’t resist reaching into my pocket for my mobile phone and taking this photograph of primroses.
I almost forgot to mention the forget-me-nots which were making a more subtle appearance but I did remember the quote ‘The best camera is the one you have with you’. How true is that?
Two years ago one of my first blog posts was about snowdrops and included the quote “No matter how long the winter, spring is sure to follow.” The words were appropriate then but are even more fitting in February 2021. Lockdown has made the winter seem very long. Any signs of spring, and the hope and promise of relaxation of restrictions, are welcome.
Last week we were grateful to receive our COVID vaccinations. We attended the Pirelli Stadium, home of Burton Albion Football Club and currently being used as a vaccination hub for the town. The process was everything we could wish for – efficient, well-organised and friendly. We should be offered our second injection by early May by which time spring will be in full swing. For us, this was a sign that better times are sure to follow.
Our few chats and phone calls with others, exchanging pleasantries with fellow walkers in the area and evesdropping on other people’s gossip during our walks show the main topic of conversation is, you’ve guessed it, ‘the jab’. ‘Have you had yours yet?’ (Yes) ‘Where did you go?’ (Pirelli Stadium) ‘Which did you get, Pfizer or Astra Zeneca?’ (Pfizer). ‘Have you got your second appointment yet?’ (No). ‘Did you get any side effects?’ (None at all).
So back to the humble snowdrop. It is often seen as a symbol of rebirth, hope and the ability to overcome challenges in life. The snowdrop can also be a symbol to show sympathy for somebody who is struggling. What an appropriate flower for this current time, so if you are looking for signs that after this long winter, spring is sure to follow, look no further and join us in Snowdrop Wood.
John's Postcards 