Nodding Honey-bells - Early Blooming Columbines

Afternoon all,

Not such a good day today - but then it is Monday! Although it started fine enough it  turned to rain this afternoon, but not before I took the chance to get out and photograph my early Columbines.

This, my favourite, is a stunning Alpine variety which has the prettiest white cup nestling amidst the vivid blue outer petals . I've long forgotten the name, this is true of all my Aquilegias because I've had them all so long the labels have long gone too (along with my memory!) This plant grows in a trough in a wee shady corner of the back garden and it never disappoints year on year.

Here's another wee beauty, another Alpine variety with rosy pink petals which contrasts nicely with the fluffy yellow stamens. It grows happily in a sink garden by the front door step - providing a lovely greeting to everyone who comes to our house at this time of the year.

Although the purple-blue flower is pretty, it's the foliage of this one that really catches the eye. It's a zingy lime colour growing from purple coloured stems - just gorgeous.

That's all the Columbines that are in flower in my garden now but there are late bloomers to come yet.  Apart from the Columbines there are other beauties brightening up our lives just now and here are just a few.

Red Cardinal in the wildflower border

The first strawberry blossoms - can't wait to taste my first strawberry!

The EM's pet Azalea

And, finally, white Bellis in a snail shell pot - positioned on the front doorstep as a greeting to all.

The rain hasn't let up yet but after the dry spell we've had it can only be considered liquid sunshine - the plants will be loving it : )

Earlier today I spent an enjoyable hour or so colouring in a House Mouse stamp with ProMarkers ready to use on the card I'm making for my granddaughter which I'm hopeful of completing this evening. However, I've a few jobs to be doing beforehand - when they're done I get to play : )

I hope you all had a great weekend and that your day is turning out well. Many thanks to all of you who take an interest in this blog and to those of you who have left your lovely comments on my posts - although it is by no means necessary - it is good of you to take the time. I appreciate each and every one.

Happy crafting