I used to think that Winter was my favourite season but the last few years have seen me slowly change my mind. Of course I love Christmas and the seasonal loveliness it brings. The past few Winters have been nothing but grey and dismal. Instead of snow we’ve had rain and constantly fluctuating temperatures. This has made me yearn for Spring more than ever.
This year I have noticed what a negative effect Winter has had on my physical and mental health. I’ve never been diagnosed with anything like seasonal affective disorder but I definitely do suffer some form of blues quite badly around this time. In the past I’ve suffered from a Vitamin D deficiency but I know take supplements which do help somewhat.
Last weekend I felt the need more than ever to get out and search for the first signs of Spring. Here in the UK Spring officially starts on March 20th but I knew if I searched hard enough I could find what I was looking for. I was also desperate to feel the sun on my skin and get some fresh air in my lungs.
With no sign of rain we set off to visit one of our favourite places. Acorn Farm is a small community run farm near Knowsley. I’ve blogged about our visits a couple of times. The children love the animals and the parks, but for me it’s more about the sensory garden and the little woodland walk.
There’s a herb garden where the plants are already flourishing. We spent some time smelling the leaves and branches and guessing which herbs they were. The sensory garden was alive with signs of Spring. From the tall yellow daffodils to the stunning purple crocuses, it couldn’t help but to lift my spirits.
I don’t know whether it’s a part of getting older but I certainly don’t remember taking this much notice of flowers and plants in my younger days. I also notice and appreciate the signs of seasonal changes so much more now too.
It was so lovely to do something as a family. Our weekends can often be busy and time together can sometimes become neglected.
Those few hours outside, surrounded by nature with the sun on my face made me feel happier than I have in a little while. So I welcome Spring with open arms, ready for growth and renewal.
I’ve just round to reading this following a very busy week and it’s funny how you write exactly what I’m feeling and thinking with regards to the seasons and the changes. We are deffo on the same wave length my love x
I love spring coming (although my sinuses don’t!) the flowers growing and the spring born animals, the weather getting better brightens my mood. Your family day out looks lovely. #TuesdayTreasures
I cant wait for the brighter days and nights to come my OH is horrendous in the winter months his mood is terrible and as soon as the sunshine arrives he’s like a different person. Think I need to move somewhere sunny all year round. #TuesdayTreasures
I’ve loved seeing the daffodils out. Although the crazy snow we have had today makes it feel like spring is still very far away! #tuesdaytreasures
I am really affected by the weather too, and that’s why I love spring. The fact that you’ve managed to get out and about, and the lovely photos you’ve taken of the signs of spring, are exactly why I love it. You’ve really cheered me! #TuesdayTreasures
A lovely post. I feel much happier in the spring and hate the dark days of winter. I might look into vitamin D deficiency too. We’ve been to see the lambs at our local farm twice this week! Loving the yellows of the daffs, I think they could be my favourite flower. #TuesdayTreasures