Today Miss Lexy, my trusty motorhome was booked in for some work. She had a cracked water pipe leading out from the kitchen sink and need her water sensors checking. I set out in plenty of time to make the journey around the M25 and to Burgess Hill. I felt quite happy, wide awake and ready to go. However emotions as we know can just change and as I reached Swanley on the M25 tears came from no where. I have so many memories of Rich and today reminded me of last May when we traveled to collect Miss Lexy for the first time. Also of the many adventures we had all together. It was to be like this all the way to Burgess hill. Fortunately I could see where I was going. Once I’d reached my destination I took a few moments, took some deep breaths and handed over Lexy’s keys. She would be there for a good few hours so I had arranged to meet My friend Jono here.

We toddled off to Brighten. Found a car parking space and walked along the sea front. The sky was bright blue and the sun was warm and bright.

After a while walking around and seeing some very interesting art work on the buildings we enjoyed some lunch again on the sea front.

A little beach restaurant was chosen and as an added bonus we were told that everything on the menu was half price due to the governments new eat out scheme. With that in mind we picked a sharing fish platter. It was delicious.

Brighten is a very interesting place to explore and Rich, Ben and I enjoyed exploring it last year. It also reminded me of my last trip away with my dad which was to Glasgow. A vibrant city, also full of amazing art work.

I found this description of Brighten:

“Brighton’s location has made it a popular destination for tourists, renowned for its diverse communities, quirky shopping areas, large cultural, music and arts scene and its large LGBT population, leading to its recognition as the “unofficial gay capital of the UK” and is the most popular seaside destination in the UK for overseas tourists. Brighton has also been called the UK’s “hippest city”, and along with Norwich named as one of the UK’s most ‘Godless’ cities, and “the happiest place to live in the UK””

This is so true as their are many statues and beautiful buildings to see.

It was now time to head back and collect Miss Lexy. She is all repaired and ready for her next adventure.

Although it’s been an emotional day it’s been a nice day and it reminded me that I need to persevere and keep doing things like this x x ❤️

I’d spoken a while back about creating a couple of new raised beds for growing vegetables but put it on hold as I thought no point this year. However I was full of energy today and decided that it was worth starting, at least installing a temporary bed as I had quite a lot that I could grow now.

As you can see Suzy was on hand to assist as usual. I’d marked out a rough size with bamboo canes. It’s a tad smaller than it will eventually be as I wanted to leave room for the new edging that is yet to be made. Also I plan to turn this into a raised bed so that it will have some good quality topsoil added and enable better root systems. Once the shape and sized was marked the shape was cut with a grass cutter and the grass removed with a spade.

Now was the real energetic bit, to dig the soil over and remove as many stones and old roots as possible. Of course at this point the sun came out in full and tried to bake me. But with a few refreshment stops I soon had this part competed.

It would be better if I could edge the patch somehow and after some searching through dads bits and pieces collection I found some lengths of wood that would do for now.

After some compost was added I marked out where I wanted to put each vegetable. I decided to plant spring onions, red carrots, 3 different types of radish, 3 different varieties of lettuce and spinach.

This spot is visited by Suzy and the birds quite frequently so the next stage was to place some netting over. Again I had this available in the garden shed. It was easy to place as I dropped it over my mini cloche frames for support. A quick drench, tidy up and labels in, job complete. Total spend, zero! I already had everything that was required. Now to wait patiently for the vegetables to grow.

So there we have another quick relatively easy garden project. Fingers crossed everything grows. I’ll leave you tonight with a few more photos from the exciting veg and flowers. Night x

On the 20th of April 2020 we had to say goodbye to Rich. This was also the day that the Sunflower family competition got under way.

As I mentioned previously Rich and I had started to grow the sunflowers back in March and his idea was that each family member would have one, nurture them, talk to them and look at it each day and smile. I know I for one always smile when I see my happy sunny yellow faces beaming against the fence.

So here goes the final sunflower blog for 2020. Let’s remind ourselves as well as to what everyone’s looked like back then.

Craig and Sam –

Craig and Sam started off so well. They kept their sunflowers indoors for a while. Even Cosmo left them alone

Then Sam and Craig transfered the sunflowers to the big wide world of their garden in pool. Again they were growing nicely until disaster struck.

Brian has arrived to the competition. I think he should have been in the race between the Hare and the tortoise but he said he had a keen taste for sunflowers and he began chomping away.

Jan and Lisa – (and not forgetting the adorable Libby) Again a good start out in Reading. Their tactic seemed to be leave them outside during the day and bring them in at night. This lasted for a while until the winds came and snapped Lisa’s sunflower head clean off. It was like a scene from the revolution in Paris. Lisa was mortified and also out of the running.

Jans flower however fell off the table in the wind very early on in the race and its top snapped straight off. Fortunately the sunflower fairy delivered some new sunflower seeds which were planted with haste but lots of love. The result was that Jan was catching up and back in the runnings.

Auntie Jeanie – over near Bexleyheath. We had to keep an eye on Jeanie, as they say it’s the quiet ones you have to watch and as a keen gardener she had lots of previous experience and knowledge. Sally the sunflower was a bit of a mystery. We didn’t know if it was in or outdoors to start with. But slowly and steadily Sally grew stronger, survived the high winds, hail and rain and is now looking beautiful.

Nanny Bev – now this was risky for Gerald. He started of growing indoors but was soon planted into a larger pot and positioned outside, sheltered by a wall. However Bev has two very big strong dogs, would they like to nibble Gerald as they do the bamboo? Now I know that Bev gave Gerald the odd feed here and there. Did this help, would she be the winner?

Jo and Ben – well when I say Jo and Ben its really just Jo lol Ben has outgrown growing sunflowers. SUNY sunflower as did all the plants started their life here in Jo’s greenhouse. SUNY even remained in the greenhouse for a few more weeks as he had a phobia of slugs and snails. He needed quite a bit of reassuring that he would be safe in his new container and next to the fence. Also he was promised full sunshine. What he didn’t expect was a massive hail storm, pounding through his leaves. Fortunately the flower hadn’t quite revellers itself and survived. SUNY was also joined a few weeks later by the sunny eight. Eight youngsters all fighting for the best spot by the fence.

So here are some of the highlights.

The first out of the competition was Lisa in edition 5. Beheaded, a nasty way to go. Second out was Sam and Craig in edition 6. Although the Sunflower healer was called in in edition 7, we heard in edition 8 that the sunflowers had been revived, however we didn’t get to the root of the therapy and after some consideration it was decided that some foul play had occurred and they were now out of the competition. Great effort though guys.

Jo’s sunflower was the first to bloom back in edition 5, closely followed by Jeanie in edition 7. Nanny Bev was in full bloom by edition 8 and wow, Jan’s seeds had put in a great fight. What was she feeding them. Her sunflower, Ginny was in bloom just after update 8.

It’s been great fun hearing all the sunny stories, tears with the disasters but the main thing is that the competition has kept us all smiling and hopefully the readers of this blog to. Rich would have loved all the comical stories, especially Sams and Craig’s. I think Rich may have grown his sunflower on the shed roof to gain that extra height 🤣

So the moment you have all been waiting for. Drum role please.🥁🥁🥁

4th place goes to Jeanie with a grand height of 121cm and a flower span of 12cm.

3rd place goes to Jan with a height of 134.5cm and a flower span of 12.7cm

But second and first I think has to be a tiebreaker

We have the second highest plant with Bev at 168cm and the tallest plant is Jo’s with 170cm. However in second place with a flower span of 14cm is Jo and in first place a whopping 18cm span is Nanny Bev.

Not in the running though was one of the SUNY eight. One of Jo’s sunflowers reached an incredible 175cm tall and a flower span of 23cm!

A huge thank you though to Rich for starting the competition. I know I for one think of him every time I see SUNY and the sunny eight dancing in the breeze or smiling up to the sun. Rich wanted us to keep smiling just like he did through the tough times and he certainly got his wish ❤️❤️❤️

Many years ago my vegetable patch was turned into the berry patch as I was often away in the summer when the vegetables would be ready to harvest. We started the patch being full of strawberries, but I have since added raspberry canes and this year hanging baskets with cherry tomatoes.

As you can see the strawberries have taken over in some places and the raspberries needed thinning out.

Some of the strawberry plants are also now three years old and they didn’t produce much good quality fruit this year so it was time to pull them up and add them to the compost.

Last year I had planted up some of the runners from the existing plants and they had been in pots so far. But now there is room to plant them out into the strawberry patch.

The early fruiting raspberries have now finished fruiting so it is time to cut them back. It’s quite easy to do as the canes have already turned brown so easily identify.

Whilst I was busy working in the patch I had a couple of friendly visitors not bothered by me at all.

Of course I had my reliable little helper on hand today also.

So there we have another productive day in the garden.

Sunflower update: The results are now in, all sun sunflowers have bloomed. Results will be revealed in Sundays sunflower special Blog.

Part one today of prepping for the new greenhouse extension. Yes I know I’m mad wanting to extend the greenhouse, but it will be worth it next year.

So tools at the ready, Jono here to help we set to work.

Part of the reason also for taking out the Laurel is that the roses on the arch are not getting enough sunlight, taking it out will make a big difference.

After a few hours of cutting and sawing the job was complete. Thee is a big empty space, however so much more sunlight is getting through and once winter comes we will move the arch and extend the greenhouse. The plan is also to put in a second water butt at the side of the greenhouse. It will all be concealed by a new trellis and climbing rose which I hope to relocate.

Tonight I thought I would make a couple of videos to give you a tour of the garden. The photos Ive taken are lovely of individual plants but I think l this will give you a feel for the layout and design. Hopefully you can hear me in the videos x x

Sunday mornings are for laying in bed. I haven’t laid in bed for months but today it seems I fell back to sleep and woke with a start at 9.

What to do today? It was drizzling with rain but lovely and warm, so after Suzy and I had been for a walk I set off down to the workshop. I wanted to check that I had the right attachments for the drill for a project I want to start later in the week. Luckily I do so hopefully the weather will be on my side on Wednesday. More about that later.

Last year Rich helped me to place an irrigation system in the bottom border. But sadly I left it out during the winter and it appears something nibbled it. After investigating the garden shed I had almost all the parts required to relay the system. The only parts that I was short on was the spikes to hold it into the ground. With my crafty head though I found the wire and fashioned some new ground spikes. Now we can begin.

Laying the hose was not an easy job on my own. Climbing in and out of the plants, trying not to stand or fall on any. But after a couple of hours I had the pipes in place with droppers by each area that I need to concentrate the water on. Time for the big switch on. This system is operated from the water butt that gathers water from the shed and greenhouse roof, so it’s so important that I remember to turn it off or else there wouldn’t be enough water for the greenhouse plants. I turned the taps and returned to the flower bed to see if I had successfully installed the system.

Much to my delight water was dripping slowly from each mini tap. Hooray.

That was a tricky job but I’m so pleased id managed it. Next job was to plant up a couple of Clematis that had recently been delivered. I thought Id ordered one but two arrived. I planted the first Clematis next to a Jasmine behind my compost bin and the other in the back border. Hopefully they will grow and I can train them to cover various sections of the shed and trellis. Snails though tend to be a problem here, so I fashioned a snail defence device from a plastic bottle and copper tape.

The garden has been buzzing with bees and butterflies today. They are loving all the flowers that were planted last year. Last night we also had a huge amount of flying ants take off from the Salvia pot.

For dinner tonight we were cooking up a roast chicken. I’ve been growing carrots for a couple of months now and tonight I pulled one up to find a plump red carrot. How joyful. I pulled up a few more and some rogue spinach that had seeded itself in the spring onions. It’s so rewarding growing your own. Until next time. X

Last weekend Ben and I packed up Miss Lexy and headed off to a campsite in Henley on Thames. It was a campsite I’ve been before with Rich on a few occasions so thought it would be a good place to return to as I would be doing all the van life bits without him.

We had a nice easy drive down, the M25 was the clearest I’ve ever driven. Clearly many people are still staying at home.

Arriving at the campsite was different to past check in’s as we had already been sent the gate code and pitch number so that there was no contact with the reception staff. This we managed to do and found our pitch with ease, Parked up and plugged Miss Lexy in. it was now that I started to realise this wasn’t going to be as easy as I thought. I knew how to do all the electrics and water ect but what I wasn’t used to was doing it all without Rich. We had such a routine, each knew what the other would be doing. We were the perfect team. It was a shock for myself how I realised a big part of our team was missing so it wasn’t going to be the same again.

Part of the reason for our trip was to have a well earned change of scenery the other was to meet up with Jan and Lisa. We had booked a lunch at the campsite on our arrival day. This was the first time I had eaten out since February due to lock down. We had to book in advance but that was ok our table was waiting for us and we ordered with staff in gloves and masks. My roast beef dinner was beautiful, although strange eating from a paper plate and wooden cutlery. It was great to catch up and after a few hours chatting Ben, Suzy and I returned to the van to relax for a while and enjoy the sunshine.

I put up our camping sofa and Suzy made herself at home immediately. One happy relaxed puppy.

The first night in the van was so strange. Ben was very comfortable in the roof space but I felt lost. My wonderful man wasn’t there sharing the space with me. We had such fun when in the van and this evening really made me realise how much I was missing him. We were so fortunate to have so many adventures and in the last year trips out and our honeymoon in Miss Lexy. My friends have told me to keep going, keep going away in the van. Rich will be watching me and supporting me in a way he can. ❤️

We made it through the first night. Ben woke early, makes a change 😂 so we got ourselves organised and walked into town to meet Jan and Lisa for another lunch out. The walk didn’t take long and it was so nice to walk through the streets with all the pretty houses and many flowers decorating them and the streets

Henley is famous for its yearly regatta but sadly this year the event wouldn’t be running. After our delicious lunch by the river we all went for a boat trip along the river towards Marlow. The sun was shining and the dogs seemed to love the sights and smells.

After a glorious afternoon Ben and I headed back to the campsite. More views of historical buildings and the old brewery.

Our trip was coming to a close. It’s going to take some getting used to but I will keep trying despite it not feeling right with out Rich by my side.

Today Bev and I headed off to the rose nursery near Leeds castle. I wanted to buy a standard rose to give some colour and height in the border. Rumwood nursery has the best selection of roses I’ve ever seen and great prices. We chose a yellow rose called sun blessed. It looks fabulous in its new location.

The rest of the afternoon was spent pottering in the garden, moving a few plants, enjoying a relax in the hot tub and a steak and chips dinner with Ben in the garden.

The best way to spend a hot sunny day x x

Lockdown has been frustrating, challenging and unknown. We have all missed seeing our friends and family. Going out for dinner, being able to just walk into the supermarket and going to the cinema.

Well today we did just that, we went to the cinema. Bluewater have put some newish films on for £5 a ticket, reduced the capacity by 50%, made everything contactless and strict cleaning.

A trip to the local shop to stock up on drinks and popcorn and off we went. Bluewater was fairly busy and still has it’s one way systems but easy to navigate.

The screen only had 5 other people in it. Plenty of space. Then they teased us with new trailers of Top Gun and James Bond. I can’t wait for them to be out at the cinema. We saw Jumanji two. A good film with some great actors and some comical moments.

It was a nice afternoon. It gave us a glimpse of the world getting on with everything despite the pandemic.

Once home I spent some time looking at all the plants in the garden. Some are coming on really well. Some have been chomped.

The greenhouse is doing well and the first melon has now appeared.

The first tomatoes on the big plants have appeared which is very exciting and the salad crops are doing so well, my salad tonight was 100% grown by me. Very satisfying.

There is also more beautiful flowers now, so colourful.

What a difference a day makes- one day your loved ones are with you, the next they have slipped away and those of us left behind have a gaping hole in our life.

Also in times like these you really do appreciate your friends, the messages of support and the kindly written words. I have received so many lovely words of well wishes and encouragement over the last few days. Complimenting me on how strong I’ve been. But the last few days have been so tough. Why do we feel more emotional and upset at birthdays? I’m upset everyday but this has been tough. Every time one of you has sent me a message or made a donation to the Ellenor I’ve cried again. I really do have amazing friends and family and I’m so thankful.

Some of you didn’t want me to be on my own today (yes Ben is here but he doesn’t usually get up until after lunch) So one of my friends arranged a surprise afternoon tea/ lunch which was held at Bev’s house. So much effort went into it. There were birthday banners, balloons and a prettily laid out table. Flowers and the most pretty birthday cake I’ve ever seen. Thank you it was so lovely but I can’t eat any more cake for a few days 😂

The spread consisted of sausage rolls, savoury scones, plain scones, fruit scones, carrot cake, chocolate cake, and this huge birthday cake. Not forgetting tea and Pimms.

Ben made me chuckle this morning. When he got up he apologised for not wrapping my gift up properly. He didn’t know where the wrapping paper was kept. I think he improvised very well ☺️

First thing this morning I took Suzy for her play date with some of the local pups. Normally she plods along the path, sniffing and peeing her way along, but no not today. She knew, I was pulled along, not a single stop until we reached the field then she was off. A very happy puppy.

Once again thank you all for being there for us. It’s very much appreciated and we couldn’t have got this far without you x x

What a windy week it’s been. Has everyone survived? Are all the sunflowers in one piece still? Let’s find out.

Sam and Craig – last week we heard that they had been in touch with a sunflower healer. Part way through the week I was updated with the good news that they were well and truly back in the race. It did appear on first glance that magic had happened in Poole, however a birthday video call later in the week showed up some sunflowers on the dining table. They had cleverly tried to fool us. Great effort guys

Auntie Jeanie – We have a weather beaten Sally this week but she is still holding her roots and dancing to the windy beat. She even seems to have another bud forming. Well done Sally.

Nanny Bev – Gerald can’t make up his mind this week. He now wants to be called Geraldine. Why I hear you ask? Well it appears Geraldine is having babies too☺️ congratulations.

Jo and Ben – SUNY is still in bloom but near the end of his petals now. However the great news is he is getting ready for the next show with some more buds. As long as he can hold on in these blustery winds. It’s appears the sunny eight are dancing away with SUNY as they blow this way and that, again just holding on my the skin of their roots. Fingers crossed they will survive.

Jan- We have been informed this week that Jans flower is no longer nameless. I guess sunflowers can grow into their names and this is no exception. Introducing the one and only Ginny come lately. She is late to the party but look at her. Tall and strong (and being pampered by going for a trip to the summerhouse to avoid the high winds.)

A few have asked when will our sunflowers be judged, well the plan is that those in bloom can now measure the height and width of their plant, and once we have all the measurements a winner will be announced. Jan’s may follow in a week or so as it’s playing catch-up.

Have a sunny week everyone🌻🌻🌻

This is the week of project Workshop and garden shed. It wasn’t going to be an easy task. Dad had been sorting his tools and work bits out, and had achieved more than I realised. However you could still hardly get in the workshop and the garden shed was also swamped in old panels and fixtures.

Where to start? Well I suppose the first task is to make room to be able to get in and open cupboards. I had some help thank goodness with this. Andy, dads friend who he previously worked with spent quite a while in the workshop with me telling me what things were and if they were still used. Sadly most of the instrumentation was obsolete.

We started to get everything out that was to go to the scrap yard, three car loads in fact. This was heavy going and took three of us to manoeuvre it all to the front of the house. The trip to the scrap yard was very interesting and fascinating to watch all these people coming and going and how the staff sorted at speed which metal was which to give us the price.

After this we also had to separate what was going to the refuse centre. we thought it would fit in with Bev’s garden rubbish but nooooo. Another trip will be required. Bev and I worked solidly on Friday sorting out what tools we had and what was in each cupboard. It was hot work and exhausting.

Saturday morning I was up early and determined to get more done. So by 7am I was in the workshop sorting out the roof space. Everything that is still relevant and in working order has been kept. Another run to the scrap yard is also required. But by mid morning the main workshop is almost finished, all bar labelling the drawers ect to know what is where.

So with the workshop well on its way i was due for a well earned break. I had arranged to meet Sam, Mark and Ryan for a picnic at Capstone park to celebrate my birthday which is next week. Ben, Suzy and I jumped in the van and set off.

Part way there I noticed in the mirror something flapping on the side of the van. It was the electric socket cover. I pulled over but I couldn’t manage to fix it, so out came the handy role of gaffa tape. An essential with van travel. Back on the road again it was time to head for the car park. The guys met us there and with our picnic and chairs we headed up to a field.

However at this point I was amazed to see at the far side a gazebo, table and chairs and a group of my friends. I was completely overwhelmed with emotion. It’s been such a tough week and I’m especially missing Rich so to see everyone here was fantastic.

Nick had spent the previous day baking and provided us with afternoon tea. We had home made scones, Jam and cream. Ginger cake, and a beautiful homemade birthday cake with fresh strawberries. Not forgetting the camping stove with not only cups of tea, but decaf tea and goats milk for me. Thank you so much everyone. You don’t know how much you’ve brightened my day.

After a while a couple of the guys got out some remote controlled cars which sped around the field. Suzy was most excited by this and once of her lead ran as fast as she could to chase them. Needless to say we have a very worn out puppy laying next to me tonight.

So there we have our very productive but emotional week. I think dad would have been pleased that the workshop has been sorted and taken to the scrap yard. He had clearly started to sort all the metal he just needed a bit of help to finish it. Love you dad, and your 7 Stanley knives, 3 sanders and endless storage boxes ❤️

It’s been another mixed weather week for the Sunflower gang. We have had heavy rains, storms and glorious sunshine. Currently in Dartford it’s very windy but the sun is shining brightly. So what’s been happening this week?

Auntie Jeanie – well that touch of yellow we saw on Sally last week has progressed further. Look at her glorious bright sunny face. How pretty. Well done Jeanie, the second sunflower to bloom.

Jan- Well would you look at that. From an early disaster to this beauty. This seems to be the only none chomped sunflower and boy is it looking great. Will we see it sparkle next week?

Nanny Bev – Go Gerald! What have you been up to this week? Drinking Spinach? There must be a good 10 inch spurt on. So tall in fact Bev now couldn’t see the bud, so standing on tiptoes she managed to hold the camera up high and take its picture from above. Shock, another Sunflower nearly in full Bloom. Well done Gerald.

Sam and Craig- Well we didn’t think we would hear anything from these guys this week after their disaster last week but I have it on good authority that they have been in touch with a sunflower healer and will be able to update us in due course.

Jo and Ben- SUNY is still proudly showing his bright yellow face this week along with sneaking in another bud further down the stem. The sunny eight had to be supported again after their growth spurt and to protect them from the wind. The Buddets showcasing with the sunny eight are performing well and hope to Premier their new looks next week.

Will there be a full show of Sunflowers next week? Will the sunflower healer manage miracles? Will Bev need to get her ladders out next week to look up to Gerald? Stay tuned 🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻

It’s cherry season. We love cherries here and as I mentioned previous I had bought quite a lot.

Thursday saw a couple of jars of delicious looking cherry jam. It was another easy recipe and didn’t take to long. Think I’m getting the hang of jam making.

Suzy enjoyed a great play time. We set of on one of our usual routes and met a chap along the way. He was heading to the closet field and said he meets up with a few others. Well Suzy was sooooo happy. Us humans made a socially distanced circle and all the doggies played and ran, really enjoying themselves and all got along. It was lovely to see.

Today was meant to be a gentle day but you do know me right??

I set about planting in the new roses next to the arch and moved a couple of plants to accommodate. It is quite windy, cooler and the odd spell of rain but that doesn’t stop me.

After lunch I decided to tackle the wild flower meadow. It has been said that it can take a good season to get going. A few new things are growing through but I’m impatient, so a few weeks ago I ordered some wild flower plug plants on my friends advice. I pulled out some of the regular long lawn grass to make space and planted in 40 wild flowers. Fingers crossed for them.

Friday evening I made a delicious recipe that I had seen on a few you tube chateau programmes lately, as I had plenty of cherries I thought I’d give it a go.

So easy to make and scrumptious when cooked. I’ll put the link to the Jamie Oliver version I made next.

https://www.jamieoliver.com/recipes/fruit-recipes/cherry-clafoutis/

So there you have my odds and ends few days. The garden is looking stunning at the moment, let’s hope the wind and rain doesn’t damage it tonight x

A while ago I had seen a rose nursery near Leeds castle. So Miss Lexy was prepped and off I went to pick Bev up and poddle down there.

We had a lovely (very hot) time walking through all the roses. I’ve never seen so many and apparently the scent was heavenly. A rose was found for the arch and will be planted in a few days when it’s not quite so hot.

The reason for taking Miss Lexy out was also so that we could enjoy the sunny day and have a picnic. You can’t beat cups of tea and scones with home made jam and fresh cream outside.

On route home we stopped at the cherry farm. Needless to say there may be a cherry jam post in the next few days. 🙂

Once home I enjoyed a relaxing few hours in the shade and then the hot tub before spending time watering the garden. So tonight’s photos are of the new blooms springing into life.

A very early morning today. I was up and in the garden by 5.30 to give the patio furniture another coat. By the time I finished just after 7 the sun was above the house and very warm. So glad I started this early. Mind you, getting up early is tiring so I treated myself to breakfast back in bed.

Up again Suzy and I went for a short walk before it got to hot. I didn’t want to be out long but sometimes things happen. This morning we met a lady with her dog and we just got talking. I know I’ve had a tough few months but she has just had a diagnosis of cancer for a close family member. She spoke to me for a long time about it. understandable very upset, especially about all the not knowing as things are that bit tougher during this pandemic. All I could do was to reassure her and listen. I also pointed her in the direction of the specialist nurses and Macmillan as they really helped both Rich and I. But the main thing I wanted to share with her was Rich’s positivity. To take something positive from each day, keep your head held high and keep smiling. We parted after introducing ourselves fully and hopefully she felt a little comfort that she wasn’t alone.

So now to the fun part of the morning. After the strawberry jam success I thought I’d have a go at raspberry jam. When I looked at the fruit last night I realised there was to much to eat myself, so jars sterilised and fruit picked along with a few strawberries.

It’s really easy to make jam. It could be my new addiction 😂 Two and a bit jars of delicious jam. Apparently it will keep up to a year unopened, I can’t see it lasting that long.

I promised myself some chill time doing sewing or reading this afternoon but I’m really not very good at slowing down. So I gave the table a third coat whilst in the shadow of the umbrella. It really is a scorcher today. I followed this no by rigging up a series of wires across the greenhouse roof as the cucumber plants have now reached the roof and need further support.

The reward for this madness was a long relax in the hot tub with a soft gentle breeze. Wonderful.

So exciting. Sunday Ben and I had arranged to meet up with Jan and Lisa (Rich’s mum and sister) at Epsom downs for a socially distanced picnic. We spent a little time getting Miss Lexy ready for the day out, fridge on, water filled, Suzy treats packed and off we went. I think that is the quickest drive around part of the M25 I have ever done. Definitely not much traffic on the roads still. The parking area we had picked out had magnificent views for miles and the golf course had fenced off a small area for people to safely walk their dogs and have picnics. It was so great to see each other after all this time. We enjoyed a very pleasant few hours, nice food and cups of tea. It made such a change to be out. Can’t wait to use the van more in the future again, Although it’s not the same without Rich. I’m sure he would be smiling at our little adventure ❤️

Wow, it’s hotting up here. Because of that the latest project has been put on hold. I decided that it was more important to sand the garden furniture down and recoat it to protect it against the weather as it was looking a bit dry. Also it’s a year overdue.

Jono kindly offered to give me a hand for a few days this week. It’s much nicer doing these kind of jobs with someone to talk to. We braved the shed and found not one, not two but three sanders. Although we only had the sand paper for two. However before we started with this tedious task Jono helped me to retrieve the hot tub from storage. I had been persuaded that due to the gorgeous weather this week and to help my back it would be a good idea to get it out. Patio cleared, tub inflated, water started to fill and HOLD IT!! We have a problem. Despite how carefully Rich and I had put the tub away last year, we seemed to have a puncture. One spray bottle of washing up liquid and an hour and half later we found a tiny hole. Fortunately I knew where a repair patch was stored and what I thought was the glue. Jono covered the hole and we left it for an hour or so whilst we started sanding and popped to b&q. On our return Jono joked and said that it would be funny if the glue hadn’t set and guess what? It hadn’t. The writing on the tube was foreign and on googling it it turns out it was lubrication not glue. Doh! Another tube found and this time we were more hopeful. The following morning I could fill up the tub ready for Pimms o’clock later in the day.

Tuesday, hotter still. We managed to get a coat of Cuprinol on the furniture. It’s looking so much better already but it will need another coat. My plan is to get up early Wednesday morning and do another before it gets to hot.

The next part of the garden redevelopment was to put up gates half way down the garden. The idea is to stop Suzy running at full speed, especially in the winter and churning up the grass. It was something Rich, dad and I had discussed at great length. Recently a striking looking arch with gate popped up on my pc at a fair price. The only thing that was making this tricky is that the grass edging near the pond is sloped so we needed to dig some of that away to get the arch even. After much cursing we think we have it level. Now to see what Suzy does when she spots a cat on the shed.

So there we have another few busy days being productive. Some of the new blooms are looking gorgeous, especially the Lilies and Cosmos. The Cosmos have such delicate flowers with lemon centres and there is a new colour in the Lilies. A subtle difference in the hot pink by being tinged with pale white.

Whilst I sit here in the shade and update this blog, Suzy did go tearing down the garden to bark at not a lot. Sadly she went through the plants to get there. There is now a temporary guard until I can complete the job 😂

Fortunately nobody in the competition this week had hail or storms to contend with but there has been another disaster. Let’s find out what’s been happening……

Nanny Bev – A steady week this week in Gravesend but it does seem that Gerald has had another growth spurt. He obviously likes his position and now enjoys the sounds of a new garden water feature. Perhaps it’s the soothing sounds helping him to grow. No sign of any petals yet but I’m sure it won’t be long.

Jan – As we found out last week Lisa’s sunflower is now out of the competition. But Jan’s is catching up and looks a great contender. Lovely bushy leaves and it has also gained some height this week.

Auntie Jeanie – There has been some excitement this week at Auntie Jeanie’s house. Along with some healthier leaves there seems to be a touch of yellow on show. Will we see a complete flower next week? Let’s hope the sun doesn’t get to hot for it😎

Jo and Ben – over in Dartford Sunny has continued to bloom. He often changes position to face different directions in the garden. Perhaps he is keeping an eye on the SUNY eight. They are also doing well with two more in bud this week. Altough the ladybird seems to be under attack from the local ant club. It was fascinating to watch the ant try and attack it from different directions but as it did the ladybird would tilt its defensive armour in the same direction to protect itself.

Sam and Craig – Over in Poole this week things haven’t been so good. Now Sam and Craig have the only plants planted in the ground. Is it that they prefer to have their roots contained in pots or do they object to the salty air? Who knows but whatever it is they are very sad Sunflowers. Although the sunflower impersonating banana trees that we met a few weeks ago seem to making up for the lack of growth done by the sunflowers.

So there we have it. Another fun week in the sunflower houses. Will we see not one but two plants with vibrant yellow petals next week or with Brian have moved to Kent? Bye for now 🌻🌻🌻

Ever since Rich was admitted to hospital back in March, I have had many fabulous friends supporting me. You all know who you are and I can’t thank you all enough. One though in particular messages me every morning to check I’m up and ok to face the day and has done every single day since 28th March without fail.

We have all had a tough few months and find certain things extremely difficult. I know Sam is missing hugging her friends as am I.

I wanted to say a little thank you to her and make her birthday as special as it can be in this challenging time so together with Mark I arranged a surprise.

Sam was told that she would be going out to dinner on Friday evening and to dress up. She messaged me as usual in the morning to tell me that Mark had arranged a surprise. I could hear the delight in her voice, even by text. She really had no idea where she was going and I joked that perhaps she was going to Macdonalds as they were now open.

After walking Suzy I started making the birthday cake. My friend Cheryl had told me about it and sent me a photo of the one she made for her husband’s birthday. Sam and I are partial to a spot of Pimms and even had a Pimms canoe boat paddle/ picnic a few years ago.

Now if you have never tried a Pimms drizzle loaf cake, do it! Do it this weekend. It’s so easy and tastes fab-I-lous. Here is the link to the recipe.

https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/food/recipes/a576669/pimms-cake/

Once the cake was out of the oven cooling, I prepared the vegetables for roasting, wrote up the menu board and with Ben’s help put up what birthday banners we could find. Some said happy birthday boy and others said happy 40th birthday but hey. You have to make do in times like this.

Just before Sam, Mark and Ryan arrived, Ben and I got dressed up, well you would if going out to a posh restaurant, made up a jug of Pimms and waited for our guests.

The doorbell rang and there stood the guys with a surprised Sam. Mark had told her that they had to call in to collect something. The surprise worked.

We enjoyed our evening very much, had a good look at what was growing in the garden and remembered some of our past adventures with everyone including Rich who was greatly missed during our evening.

The restaurant served Turkey with roast vegetables and home grown strawberries and raspberries with meringue and ice cream for desert. Of course you can’t have a birthday without cake and candles. The candles were snuffed out to remain hygienic.

I’m so looking forward to be able to see all of my friends again and thank them in appropriate ways for all the help and support they have offered. I was so pleased on this occasion to make someone’s day.

The Venus fly trap has also been busy in the last few days. I noticed quite a few dead flies caught within its jaws.

The garden has had quite a lot of visitors over the last few days. Sadly I havn’t been able to catch them all in pictures. But here are a few.

During the extreme heat next week it will be interesting to see what other little visitors we have.

I would just like to finish tonight talking about Father’s Day.

It will be very hard this year and for many years to come to not be able to give my dad a hug and wish him happy Father’s Day. Also to try and think what do you buy the man that has everything he could possible need. Are all dads as difficult to buy for? But dad is back home with us at the moment and I just want to let him know that he really was a fantastic, role model, funny man and superb grandad. Ben and I often talk about him on our walks with Suzy or whilst we eat dinner. We miss him and his funny ways so much. But I will continue to remember him by doing all these little projects. Putting into practice what skills he showed me all these years. That is the best way I think I can thank him and make him proud and hope that somewhere he is watching back saying how proud he is of us for carrying on. That’s and “no you don’t use it like that” and “it’s in the shed, somewhere” so please don’t message us on Father’s Day with sad messages. Go out and do as Rich would, something positive, make something or redesign something else. Be brave enough to tackle something that you’ve been putting of thinking you don’t know how to do it. Smile and talk about your adventures, and if you can give that person next to you a huge hug from us x x

You may remember a few weeks ago we made a wooden planter out of pallets for the Lilys. whilst sitting in the garden a few days later with Bev she asked why hadn’t I made one for the other Lilys? Good question, why hadn’t I?

So the next project was born. Measurements taken and this time wood purchased as the taking apart of the pallet was so time consuming (however have since found out an easier, quicker method)

Jono came to help me again. I had seen a slightly different design that had built in legs which was a great idea.

First all the sides were cut along with the leg supports.

Then came the fun bit of trying to attach the first leg. Dad would have straight away said oh you do it like this but we worked it out in the end.

We must be getting quicker at this. Mind you it helps to know where the tools are that you need 😉

A great end result. Nice and sturdy and compliments the other planter perfectly.

The Lilys are looking beautiful. I’m so please Rich chose them. Every time I look at them I smile with happy memories x x ❤️❤️ Thank you Mr Hurcombe. X X

So there has been tears of laughter and yelps of joy this week. So much has happened. We have had glorious sunshine, high winds, even hail. Have all the sunflowers flourished? Has anyone been cheating? Let’s find out.

Auntie Jeanie – Its been a windy time in Bexley this week but I’ve been assured it’s the weather, not auntie Jeanie😉 Sally has been ok, she keeps requesting to moved to a different area of the garden as she is worried she will topple over. However despite a little leaf issue she is looking good. Looks like a bud is forming too.

Nanny Bev – Over in Gravesend, despite the high winds and sunshine Gerald is being a little less awkward this week. He asked nicely for a longer support as he was shouting that he had outgrown his and bad weather was on the horizon. Not sure how he could see the horizon as he is not that tall yet!

Craig and Sam – Down by the seaside things are looking a little odd. It’s all to play for between the two as Craig who was the strongest contender, seems like his sunflower is covered in some sort of alien cocoon. Has Sam imported Poole spiders to explore the back garden? At least Brian is still AWOL and Sams flower is putting out some nice petals. But will it be enough?

Jan and Lisa – Now you may want to take a seat for this one and reach for the tissues. But are they for tears of joy or sorrow??

Jans flower is looking great, catching up nicely. Strong leaves and gained in height this week.

Lisa’s flower started off really well this week so well, Lisa went out to brave the world to purchase a new bigger pot. Whilst she was out the wind built up and tragedy stuck! The sunflower was blown over. Not just blown over but beheaded in the action. Yep the wire support cut clean through the stem and chopped it’s head off!! 🤭Lisa is mortified as you may imagine, coming home to this….

I will forward the details of the sunflower councillors later in case anyone has been affected by this tragedy. 🌻🌻🌻

Jo and Ben – Sun, rain, wind and hail in Dartford this week. Not just a little hail either. Massive blobs of ice pelting from the sky threatening to damage anything in their path. Jo even considered protecting SUNY with an umbrella but it was thundering at the same time so not the best idea. All we could do was watch through the window and hope for the best as the storm continued. 20 minutes later the sun broke through the clouds once again. On approaching SUNY and the sunny eight Jo noticed that the lettuce had been destroyed, the begonias had turned holy. Opps no that should be holey not holy. I know it’s Sunday but plants don’t have a religion as far as I know. There stood tall and proud still was SUNY and the sunny eight. A little war wounded but they had survived. The best news by far though is not only is SUNY regularly peeping over the fence, but he is now in bloom. Vibrant yellow petals are revealing a pin cushion black centre. He continues to unfold as we speak. Well done SUNY for surviving the storm. The sunny eight are also all standing taller and some buds are forming. It’s looking good in Dartford. X

So what will happen over the next week? Will Sam’s flower burst into bud? Will Lisa sabotage Jan’s flower in revenge? Tune in next week to find out. 🌻🌻🌻🌻

Lockdown has really encouraged me to continue to try new things and what better way to use my own produce that has kept me positive at this challenging time.

I’d seen a video on how to make elderflower cordial, it looked really easy and as I love elderflower cordial I would give it a go. My neighbour had a very handy elderflower bush outside of her house and kindly let me cut the flowers for the cordial. Ben had to assist for this as some where very high and as he is nice and tall!!

To make the cordial we had to cut the flowers from the stems, dissolve caster sugar in hot water then infuse with the flowers, lemon and citric acid for 24 hours. I’d managed to purchase some bottles and so set about sterilising them in the dishwasher when the 24 hours was up.

The next day I strained the cordial to remove the flowers ect and bottled it in the freshly sterilised jars. It should now keep in the fridge for a few months but in all honesty I don’t think it will stay around that long as it’s delicious. Especially with fresh Strawberries and Raspberries from the garden.

Next I set about making Strawberry jam. We have a lot of fruit all at once but sadly there is only myself and Ben to eat it at the moment. We have enjoyed them with meringues, crepes and I have them with my cereal every day but we still have more.

So after finding a simple recipe I picked a large quantity of berries and mashed them with preserve sugar and vanilla.

The end result, two jars of gorgeous deep red soft set jam which I’ve enjoyed tonight with more fresh fruit and pancakes.

The home made hair gel was a success very easy to use and not at all sticky. Would I make it again? I may do especially as I now have many flaxseeds lol.

Friday saw another trip to the garden centre with Bev. I hadn’t intended to purchase anything but for years Rich and I had been looking for a bench to put next to the pond to enjoy our cup of tea whilst we feed the fish. They say you find what you’re looking for when your not looking and that was the case here. One lonely bench, the right size remained in the garden centre it was just meant to be.

Dinner this evening was also a new experience. A while back I had purchased some goats meat, so tonight it was the turn of the goat chops. To accompany them a salad made with home grown cucumber, radish, parsley. Really delicious and again so lovely to be able to enjoy something I had spent time growing.

Suzy and I were about to go out for a walk after dinner but all of a sudden the wind came from nowhere, the skies grew dark and the heavens opened. Not just rain but huge hail stones. I’m so please we didn’t head out just yet. The hailstones did do a small amount of damage to the newly put out lettuces today and some of the plant leaves and when we did get out for our walk it was like a wintery scene in places with piles of white hailstones covering the ground. However the sun shone and it was still warm enough to be wearing shorts and tee shirt.

So there we have it, another productive few days. The first raspberries are now ripe and delicious, the Lilly’s are so nearly popping open and the stunning purple Mallow is in flower.

The remainder of the evening has been filled with some more of Suzys cross stitch.

Sunday’s blog will be the eagerly awaited Sunflower special. Has there been much change this week, did the storms cause damage, has Brian showed he face again? All will be revealed. Night x.

Busy few days. I’d had an idea for a project so I set the wheels in motion.

The Lilly’s that Rich bought me for valentines have grown so tall they blew over in the wind a few days ago. They needed a deeper heavier pot but it’s also the wrong time to repot them. So I came up with an idea.

We had a wooden pallet hanging around for a year or so. Dad didn’t want to part with it. I’m now so pleased he held on to it. However that wouldn’t be enough so after a plea on the local face book group another pallet was collected. I’d watched a few videos and it didn’t look that difficult to make a wooden planter from the pallets. I could have bought one but they were £70 in the garden centre and the total of this make was £0.

I must admit I had some help and I’m glad as getting the old pallets apart was hard going. They really do build these things to last.

The challenging part was also finding the right tools for the job. Jono was helping me and had to laugh every time he said “we could do with an angle grinder” or “we could do with a jigsaw“ Well guess what dad had them, just where were they? After a short time and asking dad out loud many times we found everything we needed.

A few hours later, the pallets were apart, cut to size and fitted together.

A great success even if it take two days.

Thursday stared with the weekly shopping being delivered. Always an exciting time. After sorting the shopping it was time to head to the recycling centre. The car had been loaded two days ago from the sort out of the car port and some of the shed. We had so many tins of old paint and cardboard.

I don’t know about you but I find it very therapeutic going to the recycling centre and throwing everything into its relevant areas.

My next job of the day was to investigate the cupboard under the sink in the car port. A few days ago I’d discovered we had been having a mouse visit a cupboard just inside the kitchen. It’s very odd as it’s just the water filter cupboard and there is not any food there. I knew it must be getting in through a hole where the water pipe is run in. But as with most things here not much is quick and easy. I had to empty the cupboard, take out the back, which was not easy and then squirt in at a very odd angle some spray expanding foam. I’m feeling like I’ve had a major workout already today.

Time for a quick change of scenery. I needed to pop to Holland and Barrett at Bluewater. The mall is getting ready to be reopened. The floor has directional stickers and queue markers. Staff are now back in many closed shops busy cleaning, rearranging, repricing and creating new window displays. After all it was March the last time they were open for business, easter time. Evidence of which is still in some of the windows.

On my return home something bright caught my eye. I turned the car around and parked up to get a better look. Breathtaking. A whole field of red poppies.

The purpose of my trip to Bluewater was to purchase some Flaxseeds. I’ve been learning a new way to care for my hair. It’s been frizzy for a while now and I’d seen a lady with gorgeous curls. She shared with me the method she uses and the websites so after some research I decided it was well worth a try. It basically means not using any solvents, silicones or alcohol in the products in your hair.

For three weeks I’ve only used conditioner to wash my hair and natural styling products. I haven’t even used a brush or comb as I can now manage to detangle it using my fingers. The difference is already noticeable. But a home made gel has been highly recommended so today I set about making a batch.

The gel was very easy to make just a bit more tricky to strain out the flaxseeds. Probably as I had heated it for a little to long. But with some perseverance and quite a lot of chuckling to myself, I had a small batch of flaxseed gel which I shall road test tomorrow.

But that is not the end of today’s home made or home grown. Well nearly home grown, actually I’ve used products from my neighbours house for this.

Elderflower cordial. Looks easy and as I love it I couldn’t resist giving it a go. So with Ben and step ladder in toe, we popped next door to harvest our elder flowers. After cutting of the majority of the stems I dissolved some sugar, well a lot of sugar in boiling water then stirred in the flowers, lemon slices and zest and citric acid. It’s now cooling and waiting until tomorrow afternoon before I strain and bottle it. Fingers crossed.

Tonight I was also treated to dinner cooked by Ben. He did a great job. Beef tacos. It’s always nice to have a night off.

So there we have my busy few days. Making things from scratch is so rewarding and it makes me smile remembering the things dad taught me over the years. I hope you are all keeping well. It’s now time for me to relax and be able to remember happy times with Rich whilst looking at the Lilly’s Night x x

You haven’t heard about our adventures for a few days as we have continued to busy ourselves decorating and sorting bits out.

Bens room looks fab, the up cycled doors look like new and Ben has now moved in.

All of this wouldn’t have been possible without such good friends. We are truly grateful.

Today Bev and I had a sort out in the car port. I knew dad had lots of tools and we always joked that it would take half an hour to find the one we would need but boy did he have a lot of tools. The one that made us laugh most today though was not finding another three dustpan brushes but finding not one, two or three. Not four but five, yes five Stanley knives! That’s after I had trouble finding one yesterday. Love you dad x x

Whilst having a sort out we put some chairs we didn’t need and some cupboards at the front of the drive. The chairs went straight away. The cupboards later on in the day were enquired about by a lovely lady walking by with her dog. We had a chat then I helped her drop them round the corner to her house. It turned out we had a little bit in common. She proudly showed me her garden of which we have both found solace in gardening in tough times. After a chat I returned home to transport all the tools to the shed. So guess what one of the next projects needs to be? Yep tool sort as I’ve lost my potting bench for now.

The garden enjoyed the rain and is looking lush again. The roses are in bloom and the first of the Dahlias are in flower.

My evening was spent trying to sit still catching up with my cross stitch. I feel like I haven’t done any for a long time.

Tomorrow we are having a break from sorting bits out and will making something new. I’m looking forward to the challenge and I’ll share the project with you when it’s completed. Night for now x

After all that gorgeous weather last week I think we all shivered from the wind and rain this week. But how did the sunflowers fare?

Nanny Bev – Gravesend is often on the weather map for having some of the warmest temperatures. But not this week. Gerald has remained cool and strong withstanding the high winds. Especially as he is not supported like the fellow competitors around the country. He is stickless!

Auntie Jeanie – Sally sunflower has moved this week. She is still near Bexleyheath however she has been repotted. Her roots need to branch out. Seems as if she survived the weather though. Will the potting on though hold her back next week? Will it be all roots and no change in height?

Craig and Sam – It’s been a bit windy along the coast in Poole this week but the sunny two have survived after their close call with Brian. 🐌 Sams sunflower head is looking pretty robust forming a good bud and although Craig’s looks like it’s got a wonky bottom it’s strong where it matters.

Although I think the folk near the sea are a little confused as they are trying to enter these two specimens into the completion and hope we don’t notice!

Jan and Lisa – Wow, what has Jan been up to this week? Is she secretly putting ice cubes on Lisa’s pot so that she can catch up? What a surprise. Apparently today Jan is even inserting a taller stick! Lisa though is still streets ahead. Look at the height of that beauty. Will hers be requiring a move or new stick by next week? love how Lisa has also taken the photo in front of a white drain pipe. Is this the sunflower version of airbrushing to deceive our eye?

Jo and Ben – What a windy week in Dartford. It’s been very nerve racking with Jo checking on SUNY and the sunny eight during the high winds but we are happy to report they are made of tough stuff. It may have helped that the sunny eight were all resecured mid week with some extra string. SUNY is nearly peeping over the neighbours fence now and is forming a good strong bud. He even posed for a selfie!

So there we have it. Another varied week with the sunflowers, they are all doing so well. What will happen though during the next week with cooler conditions predicted and even someone mentioning a trip to the sunflower barbers! I think there may be some foul play in thought!!

🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻

Where to start? We have tried to keep busy this week as it has been very emotional which has made Ben and I quite worn out.

Dads funeral was on Tuesday. It’s hard enough having lost Rich recently but dad as well! To have two funerals in a month is two more than anyone ever wants. Dads funeral was fitting. The music I hope made him chuckle. We chose Andre Rieu, Amazing Grace which was the live version. As we entered the chapel there was a round of applause. It did make us smile. For our other piece of music Ben wanted the tune from the Cornetto advert as we often heard dad singing just one cornetto whilst he was in the shower. When it started to play Ben said this isn’t in English or the tune. But this was Pavarotti singing O’ sole mio. A few of the mourners were singing along in their head which dad would have smiled at if they sang out loud. Beautiful.

Lesley the Chaplin read a poem on Ben and my behalf. It’s exactly what we would want to say to dad.

By an Unknown Author

As we look back over time
We find ourselves wondering …..
Did we remember to thank you enough
For all you have done for us?
For all the times you were by our sides
To help and support us …..
To celebrate our successes
To understand our problems
And accept our defeats?
Or for teaching us by your example,
The value of hard work, good judgment,
Courage and integrity?
We wonder if we ever thanked you
For the sacrifices you made.
To let us have the very best?
And for the simple things
Like laughter, smiles and times we shared?
If we have forgotten to show our
Gratitude enough for all the things you did,
We’re thanking you now.
And we are hoping you knew all along,
How much you meant to us. ❤️

We needed a positive project this week to all be involved in. So we decided to move Bens bedroom to the back of the house where he can have the windows open and not hear the traffic. Monday was the beginning. We had help, thank you Bev and Jono, all the furniture was moved out which created a blank canvas. Wallpaper removed and walls prepared. We have decided to upcycle the cupboards above the bed and the head board.

Wednesday a good friend and decorator came over to help us out with the painting of the ceiling and walls so that Bev and I could crack on with the furniture. Thank you Cliff, you did a marvellous job. Fortunately it was a nice sunny day so the wood could be painted outside.

Thursday, Friday and Saturday saw more painting and reattaching some of the furniture and of course the wallpapering. Now I’m not sure but I don’t think Bev liked this wallpaper. 😉 It was a bit odd as it was self adhesive as in you peeled the back of like a transfer. This took a fair while but we got there.

Doing all these jobs always brings back happy memories. I find myself talking to Rich and dad, asking for guidance and where on Earth will I find certain tools in the shed 😂 Thursday was a particularly tough day. I missed Rich more than most days today so I decided to stop jobs earlier in the day and just spend some time chatting to him and looking back at our previous adventures. We didn’t have enough time together but we really packed a lot in to that time. Even when things were very challenging. So I will keep smiling and keep remembering all the happy times. Ben and I often share some of our thoughts. We try to make sure we still smile despite our tears ❤️❤️❤️

So where are we up to now?

Cupboards up, painted and awaiting new handles.

Headboard reupholstered and repainted.

Tv up on the wall.

Now we are at the stage of having part painted the wardrobe doors just to help them to match in.

As you can see we are nearly there. It’s been a good little project complete with another bit of recycling rather than buying new which is very rewarding.

For the quiz night we took part in Friday evening we were set homework. Ben and I made a castle which we used recycled boxes ect and positioned it over the pond (moat) it was fun homework. Not like I remember from my school days.

The garden hadn’t been forgotten during the week. The flowers will be smiling after the heavy rain this afternoon. Plants in the greenhouse are coming on in leaps and bounds.

Tomorrow look out for the special edition sunflower blog, but for now enjoy the colours and flowers and enjoy your evening x x

Come on, you must have that song in your head now to? Sing it………

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aVlpy5USN-E&feature=share

Welcome to Sunday, sunny, blue skies, bit of a breeze, but lovely. We are so fortunate at this difficult time to have superb weather. It would be unbearable with cold days, wind and rain. At least with this weather we can enjoy our daily walks and time outside. Suzy certainly does and this morning was no different. We went out early again and after some running around fetching and returning for treats (Suzy not me) we had a stroll through the orchard. I have to say it was very pleasant. The path is right next to it but it was cooler in there and so uplifting to see the pears, apples and cherries forming. Although lots of the apples had clumps of what looked like spiders nests on them. Very strange. Is this something that apple trees are prone to?

Mid morning I changed a few of the winter pots. The bulbs had finally died back so it was time to refresh. Planted with the vibrant plants Nick bought for us and paired with Freisha bulbs for some later summer colour and fragrance.

We have decided to take dads car to the funeral this week but he would be disgusted at how dusty and dirty it was. Most of it was pollen by the looks of things but anyhow we couldn’t say our goodbyes with it like that.

So swap car time and Ben and I set to work with lots of suds, a brush, sponge and hose pipe. It’s handy having Ben to help wash the cars as he can reach the roof far better than me.

I mean, come on, how much taller?? Love you Ben x

We had lots of laughs whilst washing the car and we may have had a bit of a water fight. Well Ben started it and I got him back at the end with a good drenching. Least it got him motivated to have a shower.

I should point out at this moment mummy’s little helper is pleading for my attention!

Cars washed it was time for dinner, Bens turn to cook tonight. Whilst he did this I measured up and ordered a few bits for our project this week. I can’t tell you about that just yet though.

We had a lovely evening with pizza and a movie. The film was the latest Joker. Both of us enjoyed it but it was nothing like the other batman films.

Time for a few flower pictures from today before I enjoy a cup of tea with a book. Night. X

So it’s all hotting up, quite literally the weather has been gorgeous this week from Gravesend to Poole. Everyone’s sunflowers have had sunshine and a bit of wind. Some have had guests, but more about that soon.

Let’s start with Auntie Jeanie this week- Last week we saw signs of leaf damage on Sally sunflower. They had started to turn brown and crinkled. Has there been any improvements this week. There certainly has. What has Jeanie been doing? Is there a magic potion involved or is it just tomato feed? Mmmm she’s not telling!

Nanny Bev – Gravesend has had lots of sunshine this week. So much so a new sun umbrella has appeared in her garden. However is this to stop Gerald burning under the hot rays or is it so nanny Bev can sit out for longer, shaded from the sun to sing to Gerald? He is looking stronger this week, she is doing something well.

Jo and Ben – Another sunny week in Dartford with SUNY sunflower and the sunny eight. Some pretty strong winds to content with now that they are all out in the open. There no shading from breeze or sun on that fence. Have they all coped with the move? Yes they have. They all seem to be thriving. SUNY is even showing signs of becoming a budding contender🌻

Craig and Sam – Now we hear that one of these guys has been very sociable this week and invited friends over. Or have they? Was someone or something trying to steel the limelight? Actually it was Sams sunflower being very naughty and inviting Brian over for breakfast. What Sam’s sunflower didn’t realise was that breakfast was the sunflower. Naughty troublesome Brian🐌 Apparently Sam rescued Brian, but did she give him a flying lesson or hint that Craig’s sunflower was just next door?? Will Craig’s flower take the lead next week?

Jan and Lisa – after a false start Jan’s version deux has been making steady progress this week. She is another sneaky one to watch. Is Jan out there tenderly stroking the pot or is she bringing it in to the house every night for safe keeping? Whatever she is doing, it’s working and there has been lots of growth this week. But look at Lisa’s towering ahead? Her flower seems to have kept all its leaves and hang on, is that another budet forming up there?

So there we have it, another week and the gang have all survived despite a few war wounds. Will there be rain this week to quench their thirst or will we see Brian and gang back for lunch at Craig’s diner? Tune in next week.

Now that most of the hard work is done I can take the time to potter and enjoy some sewing time.

Friday involved planting a few more plants in, taking Suzy for a short stroll and watching and listening to the air ambulance landing and taking off. It lands on the field just over the road, not on the hospital helipad any more. It’s a great event to watch but it always makes you think what has happened that someone is so poorly to need the air ambulance. I never mind the noise as I know it’s only for a short time and they could be saving someone’s life.

This rose was purchased from Hampton court flower show many years ago, it’s older than Ben. This is the best it has ever bloomed

Saturday morning, Suzy and I had a lay in. We didn’t go and get our cup of tea until 6am. When we got downstairs we were met with a note on the floor from Ben.

Wake me up at 11.30 please and please make sure I stay awake! It did make me chuckle.

Although I didn’t need to worry as Ben appeared in the garden at 10.30 and surprised me.

I fell back to sleep and didn’t get up until nearly 9. That is a miracle for me. After this I got up though as I can’t bear to waste my day in bed. Suzy and I had a short stroll then started to do a few bits outside.

The first two cucamelons have been planted in the greenhouse and whilst my neighbour and I had a chat over the fence and a plant swap (I got a couple of pepper plants, fab thank you Karen in exchange for a climber) Suzy decided to have a dip.

It was warming up and most of the jobs that needed doing were in full sun so I decided to start tackling the work bench. Dad would often be squirrelling away here stripping and rewiring panels ect. I know it’s still only been a few weeks but I’ve been in the garden so much to keep me going and help me through this tough time I was sure dad wouldn’t mind me having a little sort out so that I could have a potting bench.

Dad was mid way through renovating this panel so I carefully put everything in a box as it all looks alien to me, so that if need be someone else could continue with it.

We often took the Micky out of dad, in his shed with his spider spray and hoover but I have to say it was far easier to hoover than sweep. Dad would have been smiling today watching me do that. Dad could never find a dustpan and brush either and would often return from a shopping trip with a new one. I don’t think I will need to buy any for a while 😂

The garden was a hive of insect activity today. Very hard to photograph them as they are all fast movers. But I did manage to capture these beauty’s this afternoon.

Ben and I popped out to say hi to Bev and to see how her sunflower is progressing. We enjoyed a cup of tea on the garden before a trip to Homebase to buy some paint for Ben.

Once back home we enjoyed a quick dinner then I was back out in the garden feeding the fruit and veg. Whilst doing so I noticed some orange spots on one of the raspberry bushes. After some research it appeared there is a bit of Raspberry rust on one of the plants. So I gave it a quick trim and thinned it out as apparently it can be caused by the plant being to dense not letting enough air flow through. Hopefully I’ve caught it before it reaches the others. Apparently it still fruits ok which is good.

Time to relax and do some more of Suzys sewing. Enjoy the evening everyone.

Tomorrow I shall start with a sunflower blog update for you all.

How exciting. We were off out today. But first a little work on the wild flower meadow. It’s a lovely day, a little cooler with a soft breeze but the sky remains bright. I’d spotted a few dandelions in the meadow so I got my handy tool and removed all that I could find. In their place I popped in some Scabious plants that I had spare along with with some scabious wild seeds. There are a few plants popping up now but it’s a slow process, especially when we haven’t had much rain. I treated the meadow to a good water after and made a start on getting Miss Lexy ready for her outing today.

Miss Lexy has been on charge over lockdown and with her solar panels her batteries have been topped up nicely. Fridge on ready for today’s picnic supplies and toilet checked. We had a feeling that public toilets wouldn’t be open at the park and we were right. Always good to have a back up.

Once we were loaded and Ben was awake and out of bed we got ourselves ready for the off with Suzy in tow. How exciting. This was a real treat.

Ben and I had arranged to meet Sam and Ryan with the dogs at Camer country park. It’s not to far from home and I knew it didn’t have a height barrier so all good for Miss Lexy.

It’s very strange meeting up with friends now as you still have to social distance. But in a big open country park with our own picnics and chairs that was easy to do.

We picked a spot in the shade for our 2 meter picnic, but do you know what? It was ok. We could see and hear each other and that was perfect. The cafe was even open and managing to serve safely but we had everything we needed. Even a nice cup of tea courtesy of Lexy.

Ben and Ryan even managed a social distance kick about.

After a relaxing few hours we headed home, unloaded Lexy

The day was ended with watering the garden and ensure everything is growing ok and not being nibbled.

I amazed by how this Allium (Sicilian honey garlic) has changed.

Dinner tonight was a salad I had seen Jamie Oliver make. You can’t go wrong with a Jamie recipe. A roquefort salad with bacon, homemade croutons, walnuts and French dressing also home made. I added pear, I must say it was the nicest salad I’ve made.

Also exciting tonight was how many strawberries there were to be picked. Bring on strawberries every night and every morning.

So there we have it. A lovely day out. Miss Lexy got a good run and Ben saw sunlight 😂

Today’s the day. Waterfall will it won’t it??

A bit more Bob the building and it was time for the grand switch on.

There we go. Not 100% Success as a little came under the rock, however the water isn’t escaping out of the waterfall so that will have to do. This has been a very testing project. We have learnt a lot and although it looks small it’s been heavy work as the rocks around it are extremely heavy. I shall keep my eye on it in the next few days. All that remained was to place the remainder of the rocks along the time to make it look natural.

Brilliant time to move on to something else. The thing with gardening is there is always something to do. As it was still quite cool I planted up some more in the greenhouse. We now have cucumbers, melons and aubergines growing with just the cucamelons to plant in once they have established stronger roots. All the other plants will stay out tonight ready to be moved into the borders and pots. Fortunately I had a spare pot as I forgot id started off some runner beans and so they have a new home next to the sunflowers.

This afternoon saw the delivery of the new pond plants. Two different water iris. Now many of you know that lately we have had an issue with the heron. Because of this i had reworked the netting to cover all possible gaps. But now the new plants would need to go throw the netting as they will be tall. Not wanting to damage the excising netting I rolled it back and placed some summer netting that I could cut a few some holes in for the plants to break through. Then on the winter I can remove it and cover back with the original netting.

The netting from the wildflower meadow was removed tonight also. Currently it looks like long grass with a few others plants coming up but I shall work on this later in the week.

After dinner Ben and I took Suzy on a walk to the country park. I expected lots of people to be out but it was really quiet. Suzy had a good run and she loves to run and jump through the long grasses.

Good morning. Apologies for the late blog but it seems I fell asleep early last night and back to sleep this morning.

Tuesday morning Suzy and I were up early so we got out the front before it became to warm and checked our preparation. Yep the wall was dug over and window boxes filled with soil ready for planting, a blank canvas.

The geraniums survived the winter so of course I’ve kept them. Just tidied them and moved them together a little more. We used to fill the wall with geraniums and trailing geraniums but it costs quite a lot and we wanted to keep on encouraging more bees. Also this year as it turned out all these plants wouldn’t be readily available from the garden centres. So my planning started back in March. I regularly receive a gardening magazine and they often have seeds or special offers on plug plants. Ok plug plants arrive and they are tiny and you have to pot them on but that has proved a welcome distraction in the last few months. They arrive the size of my thumb and about 36 plants to a pack and most I managed to get for about £5 for 36 plants.

For the front wall this year I decided it would be a lot more relaxed with different heights and textures. The window boxes at the top used to be filled with trailing plants but I’ve gone for Scabious plants, some from plugs and some from seeds at the back. These will give height and be a big attraction for bees and butterflies. At the front I’ve planted some geranium and Petunias again grown from plug plants.

Along the bottom in the wall I’ve got the beautiful Pink geraniums but added in sweet peas to climb the railings (all grown in toilet rolls tubes to encourage long roots) and Rudbeckias. I love Rudbeckias with their sunflower like orange flowers.

It was very enjoyable planting out the front as so many people at the moment will say good morning as they pass doing their morning excersie.

After a good watering in the wall is complete. Fingers crossed it will come into life soon and not surcombe to snails. Time to pop out take Suzy for a walk then head to the vets to collect her treatments.

During the afternoon I popped a few more sweet peas in the border and admired the greenhouse which is now far emptier than the last few weeks. One morning I must get in there early to plant in the grow bags.

The weather is also perfect today to sit under the umbrella and while away a few hours sewing.

Well for today I must motivate myself to get out of bed and todays task come hell or high water will be to get the waterfall complete. Wish me luck. X

The day started really nicely. I woke to a well made cup of tea that Ben made me, it was 5.30am but I was awake and it made me smile. At 7.30 we were both dressed and ready to take Suzy out before it got too warm. We had a lovely walk, not many people around and one very happy puppy dancing through the long grass. We had quite a few giggles.

We got back to a cuppa and breakfast on the patio. It’s a glorious sunny day.

Now to the waterfall. Has the concrete set, has it worked? Well the good news is that the original leak had been fixed. The bad news is that the water runs below the rock. The concrete hasn’t sealed it. Deep breath count to ten.

Of course, mummy’s little helper is alway on hand.

So what to do next. Guess it’s down to Homebase to get some weatherproof sealant. We didn’t have to queue for very long and got what we thought would work. Straight back to get it applied and fingers crossed it drys and does the job. If not, well I have a plan K!

For the remainder of the afternoon I pottered, planted up some more veg seeds. I’m staggering them so they don’t all come at once. Whilst planting, I left the fruit cage door open as I intended to go back in to water the beetroot. As I turned round I saw this little furry face chomping away in something that she was clearly enjoying very much. Boy did I tell her off. Have you guessed what she was chomping? Our delicious strawberries. Such a cheeky dog.

Bev delivered a lovely gift today. She had organised for these to be hand made so that I could hang them in the garden. I hope you agree they are really nice and are now hanging in the tree near the water feature. Thank you Bev x

The rest of the evening was spent with Ben and I enjoying a roast dinner on the patio and sending out messages to many people on dads phone to inform them he is no longer with us. Some of the reply’s back really being a tear to your eye and laughter from the whitty memories they have shared about dad. I find this is quite exhausting so I ventured back to the garden to plant out some of the Cosmos and to spend a little time unwinding whilst watering the plants. But finally I rest to write this blog before I head for bed. Night all x

An exciting day lay ahead. It was time to start planting up the new border today. It has seemed like such a long time ago Rich and I discussed our garden plans but as promised I am carrying them out.

The majority of the plants have been grown from seeds and plug plants with a small number being taken from cuttings of last years plants. I think for my first major growing mission it’s been a huge success. The greenhouse has been filled to its maximum and I’ve used so many various sizes of pots. The end result dosn’t look much at the moment but hopefully in a few weeks the plants will have settled into their new position and continue to grow and bloom. As long as the pesky slugs and snails don’t eat it all!

As well as all these plants in went 70 bulbs in this area. Fingers crossed they do well.

Believe it or not though there is still more to go. I have some cosmos flowers to plant and a few seeds and a couple of ornamental millet grasses are on there way.

The front garden wall was also prepared this morning but more to come on that in the next few days.

So plants in it was time to check the dreaded water fall.

I gingerly lifted its weather protecting cover to reveal what seems like good firm concrete. Hooray. It needs some tidying but it should be good for the grand switch on tomorrow.

So for the final job of the day, move the veg bags to make room for the new sunflower family. I’m hoping when they grow tall they will look stunning against the newly painted fence. I’ve also started to companion plant them to make the most of the space and the soil. Two bags have the variety Shirley tomato in them the others will soon have spinach, beetroot and radish in them.

The thing about growing your own veg, herbs and fruit is that it tastes so much fresher and full of flavour. Tonight’s dinner was full of fresh flavours as I used our own lettuce, radish, basil, parsley and chives. Soon I hope to be able to harvest our own cucumber, carrots and cherry tomatoes.

So there we have it. Another productive day in the garden. Some beautiful flowers and plants enjoying the sunshine as well as mummy’s little helper x

Good evening and welcome to Sunday sunflower update part 2. Last week we were introduced to the sunflower family. All the sunflowers have had a busy week. Some have moved home and most have had to withstand strong winds.

Craig and Sam’s week – you may remember that Sam and Craig live by the sea. They have had strong winds this week and baking sun. The sunflowers are looking good despite this and they have moved from the cosy house to the breezy hot garden. There was a bit of a close shave when the plants started to bow their heads but after a quick drink they were standing to attention once again.

Jan and Lisa – So after a false start from Jan’s first sunflower she is back in the competition with version deux. Being tenderly cared for will it now creep up the support to top flower? Lisa’s is looking like a tough cookie and holding on to that strong stem and dark leaves. Both of their sunflowers are being taken back in at night and in when it’s windy.

Auntie Jeanie – Sally sunflower had to shelter from the wind in the greenhouse this week as she is feeling a little delicate. She is showing some signs of slight leaf discolouration, has she had to much sun??

Nanny Bev – Has Gerald been behaving himself this week? Well he has had his supporting plants removed from his pot, is this a plan to ensure he gets all the nutrients in the soil?

Jo and Ben – Down in Dartford this week we have had some high winds which has meant that SUNY sunflower has been kept in the shed on occasion. But today he is out, free and moved on to be with his fan club. Introducing the sunny eight, the new kids on the block. Let loose from the greenhouse today to be with the big one. How will he get on in his new location and how will he cope with sharing? You’ll have to tune in next week to find out.

Another day, another amount of time spent perfecting the waterfall. Today the plan is to seal in the top part of the liner, concrete in the stone for the water to pour over and get most rocks back surrounding it in position.

Did it go to plan? Well I guess Sunday or Monday we will find out when the concrete is dry and we can turn the water back on. For now it looks like this.

Thank you to Bev, Dean and Ian for your advice, help and support with this. I’m certainly learning lots of new skills at the moment.

Bev and I needed a few bits so we tidied up and headed over to different garden centre. There was a small queue but it moved quickly. We were given very friendly advice on distancing and the likes before being let in. I have to say even though they were low on stock it was very well organised.

Bev and I went out separate ways and I returned to the garden to start some of the exciting bits. Planting my new plants that I have been nurturing from seed or plug plants. I tackled the pots first. Some needed swapping around and some needed new soil. But despite the rain they are a bit closer to being completed now today.

I also managed to plant a few plants in the new border. Echinacea’s and a Geum with it’s hot striking red flowers.

Whilst pottering, I had a text to say my Perscription is ready at Bluewater. I thought it was a good time to stop gardening as otherwise I’d be out there all night. I jumped in the car and headed for the car park. Now Bluewater on a Saturday afternoon is generally heaving but currently there are only three shops open, Boots, Holland and Barrett as far Marks and Spencer’s for food. The mall was like a scene out of a movie. You know when there is that deadly silence and the streets are empty.

There were some security staff positioned inside reminding customers to walk on the left and follow the arrows. I guess they are preparing for when they can open more. Even still, it’s very odd!

With everything purchased that I needed it was time to head home. It’s an odd weather day as the sun is shining but the wind is being a little tough. Tonight Ben and I had decided it was pizza night. So with our shop bought pizza and film on netflicks we settled down. It’s usually me who falls asleep during a film at home but surprisingly it was the other way round tonight.

Tomorrow will be week two of the sunflower diaries as an added blog bonus. But for now. Night night.

So a planned rest today. I took Suzy on an early walk ready to meet Bev at the garden centre before it got busy. We both had a list of things we needed. Not much but it was so nice to get out and have a look round again.

We only had to wait a short time in the queue and we were in and off. What to look at first. All the bright colours and shapes. So pretty. Bev wanted a bamboo but they didn’t have the one she was looking for. So in to the seeds. I’d planted spring onions but the darn foxes dig them all up this week and kindly left the soil all over the path for me. Also my mixed colour beetroots aren’t showing much sign of life so I wanted to get some good old fashioned red ones. The third choice was some long radish. Radish are so quick and easy to grow and our first crop are delicious so it’s time to grow a new variety to me. The beauty of radish is they are so easy and you can companion plant them with other crops. Some of mine are in with my cherry tomato hanging baskets.

Bev then treated me to a decent pair of secateurs for my birthday next month. I did a trial prune tonight and they work a treat. Thank you Bev x

We happened to stray upon the water features and Bev chose herself a new one for her garden. She spent later in the afternoon rearranging her plants and pots and I think you’ll agree she has done a great job.

After a bit more wandering and picking the pots we had come for we headed to the tills. We must resist and put our blinkers on as we past anything else.

Once home and refuelled after lunch I did a little repotting in the garden. The lavender Bev bought me last week was a bit too snug in the pot I put it in. So it now has a nice new one to match the Maple pot.

A bit more tidying of the garden and another go at arranging the rocks on the waterfall. The waterfall is definitely a pain job but we are nearly there. I think the beginning of the rock layout is looking so much better.

That’s all I have energy for today as I also managed a few hours of paperwork and that’s so draining. But it is relaxing to have a trip around the garden and explore what is springing into life. The first Iris in the pond today opened up and looks dazzling. Have a good evening. X

All planned for an early start and I’m generally up and ready to go at silly o’clock. However this morning was a struggle. I think the heat and the previous days project took it out of me. So instead of rushing around I took a gentle walk with Suzy as it was nice and cool then carefully unwound the netting from the fruit cage so that we could get to the fencing behind the raspberries today. But first second coat of the last panel of trellis, who put trellis in the garden I ask myself yet again?

Bev arrived and we cracked on. Sadly we hadn’t got the mix right on the concrete yesterday so it had to be removed and replaced. Dads shed hoover came in very handy to suck it all out of the waterfall before we started again. Today’s attempt seem to go better and is setting. We even got as far as laying in the liner to work out the final details. But I’d got to the point my brain was fried and I just couldn’t think. So we decided to leave it for today and I’d go back to it tomorrow afternoon.

Fencing continued but in this heat it was hard going. The end result though was worth it. It looks so much fresher and the colour is great.

The shower took a while as every time I thought I’d got all the paint off me I found some more. In fact I’ve had my shower and I’m still finding it 😂

The garden has rewarded me well tonight as I harvested my first radish’s. They are crunchy and fresh tasting. Nothing like you buy from the shops.

The first strawberries will also be harvested tomorrow. I think it will be a steady crop to start then bang, strawberry jam making time.

That’s it for today. I’m out of energy but it’s been worth it. Very productive again and great looking results. Tomorrow some down time before getting back to some form filling, followed by some more work on the waterfall. Hopefully soon I will get to plant lots of the newly grown plants on the border. Night all. X

After not a lot of sleep I gave up. Breakfast was at 3.30am. Suzy was not amused as I wouldn’t let her have hers until 6.30.

As you know last night I was very undecided about what colour to paint the fence. Pretty certain I now knew what colour to go for I headed of to B&Q really early to beat the queues. Little did I know I could have turned up 45 minutes earlier as they opened at 7 not what the website said at 8. Anyway no need to wait just straight in and headed to the fence paint. It appears everyone and their aunties are painting their fences as the shelves were quite bare and the colour I had chosen was no where to be found. However I did see an example of another colour that took my eye so two tubs and some bamboo cains later I was in the very short queue for Marks and Spencer’s. What a treat. I haven’t been here since March. I treated Ben and I to some nice meringues and a lemon meringue for during the week ahead, hopefully to go with some of our own strawberries.

Back home and refuelled Bev arrived and we cracked on. First with painting some of the fence then making the cement for the waterfall. Now I’ve never done this before neither has Bev. But we had a laugh and were chatting about how dad would have told us to do it this way or that way. Anyway, I’m not sure if we made it quite right, maybe a little dry but time will tell in the morning. If it’s not right I shall remove it and start again. Practice makes perfect right?

After a healthy lunch of salad and chicken we continued to paint the fence. Who invented trellis? It’s awful stuff to paint. Mind you it became a bit easier once we removed it and laid it down to paint. Did anyone mention it was the warmest day of the year so far?? I do pick the wrong days to do stuff sometimes. But we were sensible, lots of suncream, drinks and working under the sunshade. We didn’t manage to finish the painting today but what we have done in our opinion looks really good. What colour did I pick I hear you say? Sage. A cross between Grey and green. Suits the garden.

I really appreciated Bev’s help today, even Ben gave us a hand until he couldn’t cope with the sun anymore. It’s taking along time to paint as I can’t remember the last time it was done however it’s worth the effort and to have someone to chat to really helps x

Tomorrow mornings weather isn’t looking to great but if I’m up at silly o’clock again I will check our handy work on the waterfall, redo if necessary and cover it for any forecast rain. Then later in the day crack on with the fence painting.

Enjoy the lovely evening everyone. Night x

What a lovely warm sunny morning and it was to get hotter. I decided I needed a more chilled out day today so Suzy and I had a slow plod round the garden with a cup of tea. Every time I walk past the waterfall I think how on earth should I fix it.

I spotted a few strawberries turning red this morning and by this evening they had come on in leaps and bounds, just like our new friend today.