The garden in the sunshine

The garden has really blossomed as a result of the last ten days of glorious sunshine (and the forecast suggests more to follow).

The Acer in the foreground was moved at the wrong time of year (an unexpected gift) and one half did not survive; hence the odd shape, though its colours are still stunning. The one element that is not enjoying the prolonged dry spell is the pond, which has dropped by about three inches below its usual level - the fish will soon have to grow legs! Normally I'd top it up from the water butt, but it froze and split over the winter. Though it has been replaced, there has been no rain to fill it up. I'll remember next winter to store it in the garage.

The far corner - the patio by the pond - is a real sun trap, and has been fully exploited today as the ideal place to enjoy a book and a glass of chilled something.