A long absence...

I have been away for a good while, caring for my Lady wife. Jean has Parkinson's and dementia, and just prior to Christmas last, she was finally admitted to full time care.

It's given me a little more time of course, but living alone is taking some getting used to. I can shift for myself, no problem, (Consider myself a good cook in fact) and I can do my share of housework; although my share is not much because I am not 100% healthy myself. I'm not complaining you understand. But I am wondering just what they meant by 'Let no man put asunder'. Doesn't apply at this end of life, does it? Unless you're rolling in money, and can convert your home, and employ private carers. I read somewhere once about the Government caring for us from the cradle to the grave; is this what they meant!

So I can try to fill the time with my gardening and woodworking; when I am not aching somewhere! My biggest fear is tripping over to be honest!


Good to be back folks.

Wobbly-John


Here we go again, as the growth restarts!



The weedkiller bottle is included to show scale!!!

 

Welcome back John

Life is a trial

 

Indeed it is a trial. Thanks folks. I am now going to make a pint of Earl Grey, and seat myself in the garden to survey what hasn't been done!

Wobbly-John

 

Looks like you have the bones of a nice garden there John.

Just needs a bit of tidying up and it will look good again, I'm sure.

 

As said above looks like it needs a bit of a tidy up, looks like a very nice garden to me. I like the cold frame. Did you make it yourself?

Rusty

 

Thanks folks.

Marley and Pete;

Yes, I can see my garden needs a tidy-up. I never errrrr.... noticed until it was mentioned!

My problem is it takes forever. I don't move so well these days, and operating a mower is OOTQ for me. My 'lawn-feller' has had his own problems, so I am scouting around for someone else at the moment. I tried an online service, last year, but the guys who turned up. although enthusiastic and hard working, didn't know a daffodil from a dandelion, so that was money wasted! And they almost killed my lovely camellia, with 'back-spray' of their herbicide!

Rusty;

The cold frame is something I could have made myself, but time was short, so I bought it in. It is 100% Western Red Cedar with toughened glass, and detachable lights, for easy access. It should last me out, which is why I took the decision. It wasn't cheap, but I am glad I shelled out. It really is an effective frame that also looks nice. I will need to put in a couple of shelves for small pots is all.

I don't know if I am allowed to post links, but Google 'woodpecker joinery'.

They supply the frames in pressure treated softwood too, which is what I would have used for a 'self-build'. Please note I have nowt to do with the firm. I just recommend them if you want quality, and don't mind waiting for a week or two. When I have more time, I am going to make another one myself, then put them both on elevated stands. (If I get a 'round-tuit'!! )

Thanks to you too Armandii. A sharp observation from JL there! I wish I'd said it! All I can say to that is that happiness is a state of mind. I just have to consider there's a reason somewhere for my and my wife's present situation.

Thanks again folks. Now for some sausages and beans and the morning cuppa!

Wobbly-John

 

Little and often ,that's the secret.
If you try to do it all at once you will lose heart.
A little each day stand back and plenty of pats on the back as you go.
It really has the potential to be a really nice garden..
Good luck

 

Marley,

I thought about imitation grass, but only for the lawn you see in the pics. My property is a corner house, and on the other side of the wall to the right, there is another area almost as big as the bits you see here. It's grassed over, because that's what the 'open plan' regulations insist on. The house was built in 1971, and had to comply; although the estate is much older than that. The one main benefit is that my front drive can accommodate 6 saloon cars, if they are packed in close, and four or five on the grass in emergencies. (Like the time we hosted brother-in-law's wedding reception! ) We managed, but with hindsight, I'd have said thanks, but no thanks! But yes, I could have a look into getting quotes for astro-turf!

Shiney,

I was considering if I should offer the top half of the plot to some young, keen married couple, to grow their own veg. Someone who knows what they are about, could make it quite productive. I could 'charge' regular mowing as 'rent'!

I started tidying today... It rained again!

All the best.

Wobbly-John

 

Shiney,

There are paved entrances each side of the house. I have locks on the gates. Just for show really, as any fit person could scale the wall! In 45 years I never had any problems. (There are plenty of spare keys for the locks, so it's ideal really.)

I'd have to finish the shed on the right, so they could stow their tools if they chose. Number One Son was helping me, but that got shelved when Jean became ill. I have another shed, with a lock, but it's falling down! It's only faith and the hasp that keeps it upright!

Wobbly-John