ELSPETH THOMPSON

© telegraph

Today, I am sad and a bit shocked to hear of Elspeth Thompson's death. I didn't know her but as a lover of plants and writings about them, and through her enthusiastic and truthful articles, she introduced me to lots of new plants, such as the lovely Rosa moyesii. Her blog is here.

EARTH HOUR

© wwf

Are you doing your earth hour bit? Should I even be on the laptop? ;p

FINITO

© yatje

That's it, another fairly insipid VI Nations over for another year. France deservedly won the Grand Slam; Italy got the Wooden Spoon. Again. Even Mirco flag didn't work its magic in Cardiff this year, in fact, he got a little hot-headed and then Mauro got sent off. The best game of the tournament was Scotland beating Ireland. So, questions from this season: Will Italy ever make progress? In fact, do you think if I don't support them next year, that will bring about better results? Was the cinema 3-D experiment a success and will it be repeated next year? Was the new Twickenham spydercam worth it? After all, it got at least 169 complaints from seasick viewers. Why oh why are England so inconsistent? And will they ever stop their pointless kicking? Can it really be that St. Jonny's halo has slipped a little? And will I even tune in next year? ;p

AÏE

© bbc

It's been quite painful watching the VI Nations this year, I've literally winced each time England have plodded on, whether to win, defeat or draw. Thank goodness the French are there to lift the spirits and although I admit to divided loyalties, I really hope they do win the Grand Slam, even if it means smacked bottoms for England. The other bright spot in an otherwise meandering VI Nations is Mirco kicking most of Italy's points, confidently and precisely. There was a time when you watched behind the cushion whenever Italy took a penalty but not any more since boy wonder took over kicking duties. Since it's the final day tomorrow, there's not a better place that I could think to spend it than at the Millennium Stadium. Me and Mirco flag will be there and hoping he scores a try too!