Hedgerow Beauty.........

.............and seen nearly everywhere is the Elder. At this time of year, the hedgerows gleam with white frothy flowers which are not only very pretty but have so many uses - they are used in drinks, vinegars, lotions, teas, creams etc.. - that's what I call versatility! I have made so called Elder Champagne and Belvoir Farms near Grantham retail a cordial which is lovely.

I love folklore and in ancient England the elder was regarded as sacred, and superstitious folk, many of whom grew a tree outside their door to keep out evil spirits, refused to cut or burn the wood for fear of upsetting the Elder Mother, who lived in the trunk to protect the plant.
Standing under an elder tree on Midsummer Eve is said to guarantee a sighting of fairies, and another myth says it's a safe shelter from lightning because Christ's cross was made from elder wood.
Washing your face in dew from freshly gathered elderflowers was believed to enhance and preserve youthful beauty, and more practically, the leaves can be hung in doorways and windows to repel flies. (I think it would take a lot of dew to enhance my beauty and maybe rather too late now anyway!!)

The weather is again gorgeous and the temperature is already in the mid 70s F - am pleased I am not a professional tennis player - I would expire in about 10 minutes!

This looks quite good on large!

Enjoy your Sunday and don't get sunstroke.