Those of us fortunate enough to expect hearing the cuckoos calling, either now or later on, should be keeping a few coins in our pockets. It's said that if you have coins in your pocket the first time you hear the cuckoo call, you'll have enough money all the year long. We're not likely to hear them here in France until about mid-April or so

No flowers in my garden here in Lorraine yet, but the crocuses are coming along now and my iris garden in central France is showing signs of a good bloom this year.

Here the magpies, crows and hawks are having their usual battles for nesting space and it looks as if the hawks will win it this year for a change!

Liz, have you tried planting some hostas in shady areas?

cheers,

Aux