Looking Good

This week has been truly spring-like with mild temperatures, calm seas and a sense that everything is growing at a rapid pace. We spent yesterday pulling up weeds in the vegetable garden – nettles are supposed to be an indication of fertile soil and we have enough to suggest that our plot should be rich enough to feed the entire island and then some. Once we had cleared away 10 big hay baskets full, wavering rows of coriander, parsley, lettuce and spinach once again came to light. The chickens really enjoy these weeding sessions and tuck into their greens with gusto, squabbling over the choicest poppies and juiciest sow-thistles. The new potatoes are looking good, as are the spring onions. In a few weeks we should be enjoying the first globe artichokes and young broad beans. It is at this time of the year that ‘growing ones own’ really is good in the kitchen. Meanwhile it is also time to start planting the stuff that carries us through the summer – aubergines, courgettes, chillies, peppers of all colours and, of course, different kinds of tomatoes and pots of big-leafed basil.

Down in the harbour spring is also making its presence felt. Michaelis had the flowery canopy fitted a few weeks ago and the floral arrangement on the cab appeared in time for the parade on Wednesday.

There is a big storm system moving slowly eastwards across the Mediterranean so there may be some showers over the weekend and quite strong winds are forecast for the middle of next week with a drop in temperature as northerlies are expected. It may feel like spring but it isn't quite, not yet!

Easter is only a month away now and the whitewashing brushes are already out.

Have a good weekend

Regards,
Adriana