Midwinter it may be but this evening I had that summer evening feeling.  That sort of content and satisfied feeling you get after you’ve had a great day.  For us here at Domestic Executive HQ that means sunshine and hard graft outside in the garden.

This evening I stood outside waiting for the chickens to go to bed, watching the rabbits nibble the grass and my eye was drawn to the wonderful sunset across the valley.  I couldn’t resist make a quick snapshot to share.   It was right after I dashed in to get warm as the cold chill started to set in.

The primary goal today was to plant out our replacement trees – four oak trees and two elders.  They’ve been sitting in the shade packaged up for a few days so I’m sure they were pleased to be released from their clingfilm wrapping.  MT was pleased to be assisting again today.  You should be able to tell from the cheesy grin on his face!

The bassets were in the canine version of heaven.  Snoozing on the veranda in the sun.  There is only one thing better – snoozing on the window seat in the sun.

I love it when they nod off, they are so peaceful and often at their cutest.  Doesn’t he look completely at peace with the world.

Mason is definitely relaxed, just look at that muzzle.

But this is what happens when they wake up and decide to have a love in.  Pack bonding MT calls it, I tend to think it’s some cannine homoerotica. Fortnum is so enjoying this.

And this is the extend of his effort to repay the compliment.  I don’t think Mason minds really he is doing all the hard licking effort.

Away from basset play ther have been other things to admire in the garden.  The next picture is dedicated to Shirley (she’ll know who she is).

And because I know she’ll not be satisfied with one view, here’s another look at our first snowdrop.  I can rest easy now that I’ve seen the first snow drop before we head north in a few weeks.  It seems strange that this exquisite plant is here in the glory of the southern hemisphere winter sun.  Strange, but true.

But there was more.

The first crocuses no less!

Now all I need to do is stop the big pawed bassets from visiting the flower beds and squashing these little beauties.  Or indeed stop them eating them as a quick basset snack.

Whilst some of our bulbs are blooming and the irises are shown signs of life.  I am still working my way through the box of daffodils and tulips to plant.  I’ve the blister on my hand to prove it after planting our 60 more today. But hey, who’s counting when the sun is shining and it’s perfect gardening weather.