Over the last week we’ve had around 100 recorded earthquakes, many of them too strong to not notice……… Now the shudders and deep rumbles of the ‘quakes are being replaced by dramatic thunder and lightning storms. Yesterday, in a bright interlude, we could see the first dusting of snow on the mountains thus heralding in the beginning of winter proper. At least that’s how it feels as I sit at my desk today all layered up with boots and cosy jumper, thinking early on that it’s unlikely I’d manage a walk with the dogs, not unless I fancy getting soaked and/or pelted by hailstones!
Our shift from summer into autumn this year was smooth and kind, mostly warm sunny days, with enough rain to stimulate the re-greening of the countryside – how quickly that part happens, the landscape of parched pale yellows overtaken by the rapid growth. At the same time leaves on many of the trees turn all shades of reds and ochre, drifting down on my passing car while heading to Hania. An easier drive once the hire cars get packed away to recover from multi-use and the terror of being driven along the middle of the road, anxious drivers using the white line for guidance instead of having gps perhaps?? … With more time to notice the surroundings my eye would catch the sun glinting off ripening pomegranates, or the first peeking out of oranges from hitherto green shrubbery.
It’s a lovely time of year as colour comes back with all the fresh growth, allowing the hardy, resilient oleander to take a well deserved break from providing the splendid summer display of flowers.
As we reach mid-December the first of the anemones begin to appear. I’ve been wondering when that would happen as there was no sign of them earlier in the week, and so, right on time, I came across the first few today. We were lucky, the heavy rain did stop for a while and a dog walk became possible, such a treat to find the flowers enjoying the quick burst of weak sunshine. Soon there’ll be a spread of anemones in all their shades of lilacs, pinks and purples. Spring flowers as we shift from autumn to winter!
