Yesterday, eager to get outside and get some work done, I ventured out – tools in hand – after running an errand. But the wind CAME BACK (for the 3rd day in a row.) So there wasn’t much I could do but snip a few stalks left over from last year and prune a lot of the brambles, which resulted in several encounters with thorns.
After cleaning up (and giving up,) I came in the house and cleaned all my tiny wounds, took a shower, put a topical antibiotic on two of the nastier wounds, and stayed in the rest of the day. The wind is hard on my allergies so I end up feeling very, very tired and stuffed up – even though I was wearing sunglasses and a mask.
We have one more night of lows in the thirties and then I think we’ll have turned a corner.
I took these photos with very strong winds whipping the branches back and forth. I wanted to show you my favorite crabapple blossoms. They’re on a tree down by the road.
I love the deep rose and pale pinks.
Of course, I had to hack my way through brambles to get these pictures.
We visited our local nursery and purchased some plants and potting soil, but I had to stash them in the living room because of the winds. They’ll stay inside until tomorrow and then I’ll start potting. Today, I’m going to clear out more of the beds. So far, it looks relatively wind-free out there. I’m on a very strict budget this year so I’m cutting back on the amount of flowers I buy. I’ll try to make it look lush around here with less.
I think my big Annabelle hydrangea has died. At least, the bulk of it. Last year, we had a big freeze/snow event that really did a number on it. It did bloom, but not nearly as much as it usually does. I’m waiting to see if it’s just late in developing leaves, but a couple of offshoots of the main plant are already leafing out, as is the limelight hydrangea. So I may have to get in there and dig it up. Makes me very sad.
Okay. I finished the Michael Connelly yesterday and started the new Susan Hill – but it’s taking me a while to adjust to her very different style, most likely because my attention is scattered.
Stay safe.
Happy Saturday.