The weather has changed. Since the autumnal solstice, the days are now much shorter and cooler. But we have had one more late summer day. The sun is now low in the sky, even at midday, and it only gives shallow light but there is still enough warmth to work in the garden. And there is much to do to get it ready for its winter’s rest.

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You can feel the energy ebbing away. The canoes have been stowed and the summer’s flourishing plants are enjoying their last light bath before they fade and die. The rich red sedums, begonias and geraniums give a pop of colour in the green landscape.

Despite the change, there is still some activity to report – the butterflies love the verbena, and the sailors are out enjoying the water. But for most of us, it is too cold to swim or sit out unless well wrapped up.

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For me, I have my warm and bright writer’s lodge overlooking the sea where I can enjoy this late summer’s day. The garden has been too distracting, but I have made progress with my book and the winter months will see me break the back of the work so the manuscript will be ready to print next spring.

Come back next time for news of the book and the arrival of the first of the season’s Atlantic storms.