Do you have a secret “happy place” where you love to escape with a good book?

Now that spring has truly hit its stride and the golden whispers of summer are just around the corner, I’ve found my absolute favorite haunt: right in front of my house. Whether I’m reading, writing, plotting a new chapter, or polishing a draft—essentially anything involving the magic of words—this is where you’ll find me.

Draped elegantly above my head is a lush Jasmine, currently in full, fragrant bloom. It’s a bustling hub of activity! For the bees, it’s a vital refueling station; having survived the winter and recovered in the early spring, they are now busy stocking up their larders for the year ahead. They are joined by a whimsical parade of butterflies, flitting from one nectar-filled blossom to the next.

A Garden Full of Guests

It isn’t just a joy to watch; it’s a sensory symphony. The gentle, rhythmic hum of the bees is so incredibly soothing that it often lulls me into a delicious, soporific haze. I frequently find myself struggling to keep my eyes open!

Even though it’s still early in the season, my guest list has been quite impressive:

Sulphur Butterflies: Sporting those iconic, vibrant acid-yellow wings.

Peacocks: Flaunting their dramatic, dark “eye” spots.

Fritillaries: Splashed in warm shades of orange and brown.

And the bees? They’ve been visiting since April! Beyond the wild honeybees, I’ve spotted Carpenter bees with their stunning iridescent black bodies. Their wings look far too delicate to lift them, yet they defy gravity with such grace.

I also share my space with Solitary bees who nest right in the gravel. I’m always extra careful when weeding to ensure I don’t disturb their cozy underground homes. And, of course, there are the “joy of joys”—the big, fuzzy, bumbling Bumblebees.

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The Ultimate Distraction

I feel incredibly fortunate to have this front-row seat to nature’s theater. However, there is a slight downside to my perfect book nook. Between the sweet scent of the jasmine, the mesmerizing flutter of wings, and the “busy-bee” soundtrack, I find it nearly impossible to stay awake long enough to actually finish a page.

Perhaps the writing and editing can wait. For now, I think I’ll just close my eyes and enjoy the garden. Happy reading (and napping)!

But in the meantime if you want a summer read for your special book nook to read and enjoy, but a copy of Midlife Manifestations, my gentle magical cosy mystery specially designed for a lazy day in the shade.