It’s the first day of spring and as the sun shines, the mood improves and I finally feel motivated to take a stroll.

Starting at the Chapelle I head down to let the chickens out and realise that the frost is still clinging on in shady corners

But as I continue along the path out onto the open the sun is warmer and the spirits lift.

The birds seem to be out in force too. They flit from tree to tree and a hawk skims across the field.

As I complete my circuit and head back towards the village I see other people brought out by the sun and discuss the merits of a morning stroll in the sun.

Back towards Portail Bas. The road is edged by trees in blossom.

Back at the house my cat waits patiently .