Those pale white flowers, blooming bravely on dark, thorny branches—often before the leaves have even stirred—are one of the first signs that spring is truly waking.

In folklore, the Blackthorn was known as both guardian and guide. With its twisted limbs and fierce thorns, it was seen as a protector of boundaries—between fields, between worlds, and between the quiet of winter and the renewal of spring.

Despite its prickly nature, it has gentle gifts. The sloes it bears in autumn were once used in remedies for the throat and digestion, and its wood was carved into walking sticks for those seeking strength on uncertain paths.

This tree has long reminded us: beauty and resilience can grow even from the darkest roots.

And sometimes, the most hopeful blooms are the ones that come after the hardest season.

I’ve been gathering stories like this for a book I’m working on—slowly but joyfully—one wild plant at a time.

Have you spotted any early signs of spring where you are?

Words & Photography by Laurina 

WWW.Beautifully-Strung.com

There’s a generous scattering of tiny Wood Anemones in the garden now—delicate, low to the ground, and quietly dazzling when the sun peeks through.

Known as the windflower, they’ve long been linked to fairies and old folk tales, said to carry whispers from the spirit world. Not one for remedies these days (a bit too strong-willed for that), but more than welcome just for the way they remind us to notice what’s fleeting and quietly beautiful.

They bloom when the sun shines, tuck themselves away when they’ve had enough, and seem perfectly content doing their own thing…..

Springtime wishes to you.

Photography and Words by Laurina

There’s something reassuring about the return of the daffodils. No fanfare, no fuss—just quietly showing up, brightening the world, and reminding us that life continues to unfold, even if it takes its time.
Here’s to the quiet signs of spring and the colour that lifts our spirits.
Walking with the light — one daffodil at a time.

Photography & Words by Laurina

Spring has a way of turning up in the most ordinary places.
The other day, in the middle of a supermarket car park, I spotted a bush with the softest white blossoms. No fanfare—just a quiet nudge from the season, reminding me that nature finds its way, even here.
There’s no need to rush out in search of spring. Often, it finds us when we’re not looking.
Let’s give ourselves permission to notice the small things, to pause when we can, and let the season arrive in its own time.

Springtime wishes to you,
Laurina

Photography & Words by Laurina

I was walking along a woodland path with my sister.
So few flowers… Then I spotted a glowing bloom beside the pathway.
The simple pleasure of seeing it shining among the tangled remains of Winter.
Thank you, Lesser Celandine, for being there.
Thank you for your symbolism of renewal, resilience and early joy.

With a heart open to whispers,
Laurina

A little message from me (and perhaps something from beyond the veil)…

Today I was reminded to keep things simple:
A warm cuppa, a favourite biscuit, a tiny moment of joy.
Thank you for being here and for quietly supporting Beautifully-Strung. You don’t need to like or comment for your presence to be felt—I know you’re there, and I’m truly grateful.
Beautifully-Strung is about genuine connection, heartfelt communication, and making a gentle difference—bit by bit, day by day.
With love and light,
Laurina

Some days, there’s no need for grand advice or deep wisdom. It’s just about taking a deep breath, putting one foot in front of the other, and reminding yourself: this too shall pass. And you know what? It does….

Words by Laurina

The Snow Moon invites transformation through clearing out what no longer serves—be it old beliefs, emotional clutter, or negative reactions. By embracing change with optimism and creativity, you create space for abundance and authenticity to thrive.

Reflect on how you nurture your true self and honour the special qualities, talents, and energy you bring to the world. Use this powerful time to heal old wounds and turn past challenges into present wisdom. Small, mindful changes—like upgrading a daily ritual—can symbolise a shift towards a higher quality of life.

Step into this opportunity to align with your essence, welcome growth, and share your unique light with the world.

Words by Laurina

January, with all its ups and downs, is behind us. Whether it was a month of fresh starts or a bit of a slow shuffle, February brings its own rhythm—a little lighter, a little brighter.

Here’s to stepping forward with kindness, towards ourselves and others. To noticing the small joys, the quiet progress, and the moments that lift our hearts.

Keep skipping, keep smiling, and know that wherever you are on your path, you’re doing just fine.

Words by Laurina

You may have noticed it’s been a little quieter here on Beautifully-Strung recently. With so much disruption and negativity lately, I’ve taken a step back to reflect and reconnect with what truly matters.

Like many of us, I’ve felt the storm—both in the world around us and in the quieter spaces within. But storms pass, and after them, we find moments of clarity, stillness, and the chance to begin again.

Beautifully-Strung will always be a space for genuine, heartfelt, and grounded moments—a little corner of calm amidst the noise. A place where we celebrate meaningful connections, creativity, and the joy of sharing something beautiful.

Heartfelt wishes
Laurina