We could easily be somewhere in the Mediterranean next to the sea today. It’s just the most perfect temperature with a light breeze, sun if you want it and welcoming shade if you don’t. The children and I are sitting on our deck space having a small lunch under the old Copper Beech tree. It shades us like an enormous natural umbrella, dropping the temperature by several degrees. I find I just can’t do blazing sun during the day anymore. This tree is a kaleidoscope of colours right now with burgundy, dark purples, reds, a hint of brown and even green. Shafts of sunlight are making it through, barely. I love the way the colour of the leaves complement my bright orange Calendula flowers that have just opened and the yellow buttercups that are dotted around the lawn. I’m such a 70’s girl, love it. There are swallows flying overhead which always reminds me of Spain. Those hot, dry holidays in Trujillo where the swallows gave us such a magical show at sunset, twisting in flight to catch the insects. I think of those times when the weather is like this. We’re told the old Copper Beech stands here as a memorial to a much loved dog who once lived here and who is buried beneath it. It’s lovely to be its new custodian. Beech trees have been revered for centuries for their strong feminine power and as symbols of truth, wisdom and knowledge. “Mother Beech” is definitely looking after us today and creating a calm, nurturing feeling. On May Day this year, we hung a large willow pentagram from it adorned with Rowan blossom, hop bines and flowers that were at their best to honour the glorious tree. “Copper Beech” was the first tree name my son learned to say as a toddler so it holds a lot of special meaning for me. There was a beautiful one near our old house that was instantly recognisable to him and I would always ask him to say it. Tonight when the sun starts to go down, the colours will change again with a spectacular orange glow. As we’re on the top of the hill, our Copper Beech is one of the very last trees to see the sun disappear. I have a feeling that this tree is going to be a huge source of pleasure for us and for those lucky enough to see it.