Guy Garvey’s lyrics seem particularly appropriate for this time of year. The cold and dark days of winter are slowly becoming memory as the sun sets later and later each day. Daffodils are in bloom all over the city, giving a joyful splash of colour to the most unlikely places.

The schools have been closed for a couple weeks over Easter. The projects at St. Rollox and Tron St. Mary’s were also closed for the break: the crèche is linked to the local schools, so there would be no childcare for project volunteers, one reason for the closure. This break from the normal schedule offered us an opportunity to do things with our friends here that we may not have time for otherwise. Aside from extra home visits, we had time for some special outings.

We had the opportunity to take one refugee family on a day-trip to the island of Cumbrae, not far from Glasgow. This was the first time they had been outside the city, after being here for nearly a year (if you've spent time in Sighthill, it's clear this would leave a negative impression of the country). Luckily, the weather obliged and they were able to see the Scottish countryside at its finest. The family was able to relax and enjoy themselves, as well as recognise the more positive aspects of their new home in Scotland.

Later in the week, we took the families of some children who attend the Wednesday after school club at Tron St. Mary’s. We took a bus up to the Blair Drummond Safari Park and spent the day marvelling at exotic animals, feeding horses and llamas, and enjoying the other attractions. Perhaps the best thing about this trip is that it was something the whole family could enjoy. So we spent quality time getting to better know the mothers and fathers of children who are regular attendees at the after school club.

Through all of this, we were able to express some of the joy that comes with the good news of resurrection.