Kalinka

The berries of the guelder rose have an odd odour sometimes compared to old socks (nothing like as bad as yesterday's blip though.) Nevertheless they produce a lovely clear red jelly with a sharp taste. I make some most years when I can source the berries. I've  planted a few of these native shrubs on our land too but so far they have only produced a little fruit which I've left for the birds (note the calling card!)

The guelder rose has profound significance in Slavic mythology and  
its name  Kalinka is probably the most famous Russian tune of all, sung by school children, folk choirs, the Red Army and anyone looking for popular appeal or to get people jiggling in their seats or on their feet.   Checking them out this morning I found this flash mob version from a Russian supermarket very entertaining. It's also a reminder of the days when it was possible to shop and sing without constraint or precaution. Who knows when that time will return? 
 Wales will be entering a two-week "firebreak" total lockdown from Friday evening in an attempt to control rising numbers of coronavirus infections and hospital admissions.

Do watch - it's a real mood lifter!