a very late - hello 2021!

I'm shocked to realise that it's over 2 months since I posted here. Time seems to drag and also flash by simultaneously, which is very disorientating. I also wonder if I have much to say, or the energy to work it out, write it out.

Welcome 2021, lets see how this year flows. I have no expectations, but hope for health. 

Here is a photograph taken last month, the day after my 50th birthday. It's cool being half a century old, I'm fortunate to have got here and welcome the silver hairs and crone status.   

hedgerow medicine

Just in from a day course in herbal medicine at the Eco Centre, Wirksworth. We made an infused oil from comfrey, and a spring tonic vinegar (mine contains dandelion leaf & root, lovage, nettle, plantain, hawthorn and cleavers). In the morning we drank comfrey tea and in the afternoon, cleavers tea. The afternoon included an identification walk and the photos below show some of the plants we spotted... 

Nature is full on abundant in late spring, fresh, lush, intense. It's as if the plants have a master plan, each taking their space in carpeting the land. Today is another step towards grounding myself in Derbyshire, understanding and building a relationship with this land. 

 Nettle, Cleavers, Rosemary, Dandelion, Hawthorn

 Lovage, Ground Elder, Plantain

 St John's Wort

 Lemon Balm

 Tansy

 Ladys Mantle

 Rosemary

 Hawthorn

 Chickweed

 White dead-nettle

 Plantain

 Borage

 Burdock

Garlic Mustard (Jack-by-the-hedge)