Bulbs popping up all round the garden just now- such a sign of hope that spring is on its way. Despite the best efforts of our mischievous puppy Rufus, who is enjoying learning how to dig in the garden, the garden is starting to take shape. The greenhouse is full of seedlings which rick has sown and nurtured in readiness for planting in the months and weeks ahead. We love welcoming keen gardeners to the cottages- lots of lovely gardens round here to visit, not least Home – Newby Hall, www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/harlow-carr and Beningbrough Hall | Yorkshire | National Trust. But we especially enjoy guests who are keen gardeners because they give us tips and advice which over the years, we have found invaluable.