And the rain it raineth every day

Gardening still remains something of a black art to us; despite our keenness to get out and explore the wilderness that is our land, the weather has conspired against us. The occasional day of sunshine has been spent indoors unpacking boxes, while the rest of the time it has been very wet, cold, and (on Sunday) spectatularly thundery. I am trying to draw inspiration from the allotment holders I can see from my office window; during one torrential downpour this morning, one hardy chap was outside, dibbing away and planting lettuces in his patch of mud. I remain unconvinced that this is an enjoyable activity.