Fennel in Flower

As I have said in an earlier Blip, summer has finally arrived.  Although it was nor-west and cloudy most of the day we got to a temperature of 27C.  A couple days ago, whilst up at the Taylor Dam with Fergus, I heard the first cicadas of the summer.  And the fennel has grown up along the river tracks and has now started to flower.  I love the smell of fennel.  Often, as I am walking, I will pull off some feathery fronds and crush them in my hand.  The fragrance is reminiscent of aniseed and always reminds me of summer. 
Only three days to go until 2014 ends and we are into a new year.  I don’t know where this last year has gone to.  Time seems to go faster and faster as I get older.  So it is important for me to make the most of every day and to be grateful for every blessing.  I will continue to cultivate an attitude of gratitude…..