Today it is actually July 2 but this appears to be a good time to write to you since the place is quiet. It is still too early to prepare the evening meal and there are a few things we might discuss.
In the past hour we have had a heavy downpour of rain. I’m sure gardens are delighted to be watered by nature, rather than a rude and thrusting hose. The shower didn’t last long but it all helps. Today I can relax knowing my precious plants sitting out on the balcony aren’t dying of thirst while I write to you.
Yesterday was a lovely day for me. Jean drove several of us up into Dean Park to a strawberry tea. Oh, it was delicious! The tea was hosted by Darien, a member of our so-called writers group. Her garden was beautiful, full of big handsome shrubs along the pathway into the house. I didn’t take time to identify them as we were in a hurry to get to our tea but it appears the whole of the Dean Park area is beautifully landscaped. Probably landowners feel obliged to keep up with the neighbours.
One glorious tree, much in evidence, is the Locust tree (robinia) with its wonderful golden foliage. It was a delight to witness such a remarkably lovely neighbourhood and after tea, Jean drove us around the area so that we could view it in comfort. My balcony certainly suffers by comparison but think of all the digging, weeding, watering and pruning I don’t have to do. (This helps a little bit, but not really a whole lot!)
Am I jealous? Maybe. But just think of all that work (said she, sitting comfortably, doing nothing more strenuous than typing away on a computer.)
Darien’s house has an amazing view down a gentle slope, of huge fields devoted to grassy crops on a large scale. We are blessed to live in such a rich and lovely land!
Talking about crops, I have had my fair share of a crop of visitors who (it seems to me) always arrive hungry.
It is pretty hot to be baking cake or cookies and today my daughter took pity on me and arrived home with a package of the old faithful Dad’s Cookies ... a welcome sight! I know it isn’t very hospitable to serve bought food, but honestly, gimme a break you guys! Bring your own lunch and I’ll gladly provide the plates!
Helen Lang has been the Peninsula News Review’s garden columnist for more than 30 years.