We are in the last week of October and the spring weather has been disconcertedly weird. We seem to lurch from cold fronts with wind and rain to warmer and sunny, before returning to frigid conditions. Today, I thought I would be comfortable in leggings, tee shirt and overshirt. The temperature fell sharply by three o'clock and we emerged from the doctors' surgery decidedly chilly. And I'd left my cardigan at home.
The Dome café didn't provide much respite. As the morning had been warmer and a trifle muggy, the ceiling fans had been activated. Although I enjoyed my ricotta slice and tea very much, I was relieved to climb back into Lily for the trip home in a cozy environment.
I must admit to being thoroughly tired of wearing multiple layers and worrying about our lack of firewood to warm the Gallery. Which seems quite ridiculous, because usually by this time of year, the universe has flicked a switch and Beverley welcomes the short late spring advent before the summer heat hits. I remain concerned that we will be suddenly catapulted this year from heating and jumpers to airconditioning and singlets.
The upside of the rain and cool has been the abundance of water still apparent. Local rivers are still flowing, dams on farms are full to overflowing, low lying paddocks have turned into marsh land and twice a day watering has not yet materialised.
The wildflowers, particularly the orchids, have been magnificent. In our local Brooking Street Bushland reserve, the above average rain has seen orchids blooming for the first time in over five years. Our Community Garden, once an ugly town drain, is bursting with flowers and produce. The recent Beverley Rose Show was a triumph for our proud-as-punch Rose enthusiasts.
And yet, I do feel some trepidation. Neither of our two frangipanis are showing any signs of buds. I am really concerned that the rain and prolonged cool temperatures may have sounded their demise. I can only cross my fingers and hope that they show some proof of life soon.
There are consolations, of course. The days are now longer than the nights. The wet and blustery days do make way for glimpses of sun and warmth. We are able to throw the windows open sometimes and enjoy the sunshine and a breeze. The dogs are sunbaking on the glorious days. The cats, oppositional to the last, are sleeping more during the day and playing with gay abandon all through the night!
And the Gallery is looking stunning. Officially, Christmas Day is only two months away and guests in the Giftshop are already looking for festive items. Hence, I am amply stocked with cards, earrings and decorations. Thursday promises to still be cool on our first day back in the Gallery for this week. And then, once more, the sun will shine warmer and brighter, I shall reduce the number of layers I am wearing and we can fully open the doors.
Looking for an outing this weekend? Turn your vehicle of choice in the direction of Heavenly Beverley and come and see us.
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