MAGNOLIA, POLITICS AND SPRING-TIME

The magnolia is the most primitive flowering plant still living on Earth - and really quite exquisite. So here, to herald spring and to remind ourselves of natural beauty - is a photo sent all the way from Chicago - of the tree which blooms in Dan's neighbour's garden. Thanks. Dan!

Meanwhile, here in England - the General Election has been called at long last. I love it! Four weeks of wall-to-wall debating, angst, anger and passion - in what is being called the closest campaign in decades....