Another month has passed, but spring is still struggling to get established in Central Scotland. We’ve had sunshine, we’ve had snow, we’re currently having hail. But lucky for us we also still have plenty of dogs!
I call this trifecta “the fancy ones”.
The intrepid volunteers at the Shotts Nature Park have been busy resurfacing the teaching circle after it endured some unfortunate vandalism related damage last summer. It’s been really interesting getting to know local people and supporting them in making the park a nicer place for the whole community. They have lots of fascinating stories about living in the area, and I’m keen to learn more about it.
Getting busy with some mulch, and enjoying the final product of our hard work. 
April also saw me taking part in a couple of TCV swarm events: they are a great opportunity to see what other communities are up to, and hang out (I mean, erm, network) with TCV people from all over.
Possilpark Glasgrow Community Garden before and after the TCV swarm
Training opportunities abounded in the last month: Forest Skills, Leadership Skills, so many skills! I was especially lucky to attend a Social Permaculture course over the week end, at the amazing Incredible Edible community garden in Cloghmills, Northern Ireland. I loved exploring a rural community garden which provides amazing learning opportunities to local people (and visitors like myself).
Yay gardening!
Speaking of community gardens, in case you were wondering what trainees get up in their free time: last week I got to introduce Jess, David, and Stephen to the hidden gem that is G3 Growers in Finnieston (incidentally located next to a number of pubs).
Kelvinway selfies and garden explorations.
Finally, this week I had my very first school engagement at Deanburn Primary in Bo’ness as part of the John Muir Award. With the help of fellow trainee Emma, I lead a class of 9 and 10 years old into the Glen near their school. To tell the truth I was quite nervous before we got started, but then the kids were really into it and we all had a lot of fun exploring nature.
Not a bad start of Spring overall. Now, if only it could stop hailing!
Exploring Deanburn Glen with some tiny naturalists.