The simple things are the most valuable in the whole world, with each passing week it becomes clearer. My passion for growing has been developing for the last few years, strengthening all the time. I don't recall precisely a spark which started it all off, maybe more of a gentle warming which notched up in a very gradual way. One year a neighbour grew some stargazer lilies which leaned almost over our invisible boundary and in my floral naivety, I had no idea what they were and became fascinated with them... leading to finding something similar to plant in our garden one year.
The new season range of outdoor clothing is now available at Lighthouse clothing and it's growing  each time. I've been a fan of this fabulous brand from the start for all the right reasons; the supreme quality and design of the jackets, the fit and feel, comfort and wearability, practicality and the choice of colours too.

These days we have expanded beyond the garden and into a plot and a half of allotment space. While C is all about vegetables and infrastructure, I am draw to flowers and weeding. It's unexpectedly harmonious. Above; the sugar snap peas have just gone in. Below: blossom to be seen on the fruit bushes and trees.



Lighthouse believe in the simple things in life; from shores to rural countryside. Come sail away with me to shores unexplored... While I can agree that a little adventure can hold a lot of excitement, I can testify that planting an unassuming, dry, meagre flake of a seed and nurturing it from day one can hold bountiful pleasure. From the teeniest little seedling just emerging from the ground, fighting to reach up to the sunshine, drinking in the water and growing into something beautiful, the magic is tangible.


I'm wearing the Fearne waterproof jacket in the shade called seagrass and it's a luscious shade of green, though you can also chose poppy or midnight too. A lightweight waterproof jacket is invaluable for spring and summer when the weather can be changeable if you want to stay comfy and dry. There's a hidden hood packed into the neck of the jacket which is neatly out of the way until nature decides otherwise. The drawstring to the waist is my favourite feature as it make me feel feminine, it's lovely to feel stylish in a practical jacket (and so rare). Good sized pockets and poppers and a zip. Lovely soft lining. I couldn't wish for more. Ah, and it must be mentioned that the Fearne is an ideal length to stop draughts and keep the rain off your backside too.


Apples, pears, cherries, plums... I'm keeping my fingers crossed the bees are working their magic.
Below: the first strawberry flowers!



It's all about the simple things.
Sophie