Sunday, 31-05-26

Morning, everyone.  It's Sunday and we say farewell to May today and look forward to the start of meteorological summer  tomorrow.  I find it hard to believe that in just three weeks it will be the longest day and then, incredibly, the nights start closing in again - not that it is really noticeable until September but even so . . . 

Let's start with a garden photo/update.  

I think my pear tree is confused; it is sending out more blossom.  Admittedly, it is only a few flowers, not the huge clusters of early spring, but even so, odd.
There are just three pears left growing on the tree and I am hoping I don't lose any to the June drop.  Fingers crossed, please.  

All of the tomatoes have flowers now and are side shooting madly.  It is just so easy to miss one and then next thing you know, it's taking over.  Constant vigilance, as Professor Moody was so fond of saying!

And the rhubarb is happy - no drooping or anything like that.

I had a very pleasant time helping out with the community garden yesterday.  There were just the three of us - my friend, J, R who is in charge and tells us what to do, and me.  I meant to take some photos but R kept us busy and I didn't.  I can't take any on Tuesday because there's no Groove there this week so maybe I will remember the following Tuesday.

As well as Saturdays, there's also sessions on Thursdays but Thursdays is already busy for me so I won't necessarily be able to go.  It's every other week; that's not a major commitment and it is one I'm glad to make.  It's nice to just be told what to do - I could see R watching me carefully to make sure I was at least semi-competent and it seems I made the grade because I will be welcome back.

Most of the produce is distributed locally but J says that the helpers can take some, should they wish and if there's enough.  I'm just wondering if there is any room for a little herb patch but I'm keeping quiet for now.  I do have a couple of little lavender plants that are going in pots for now but which I would be happy to donate, if they can be used.

It was another hot afternoon so after my morning exertions I stayed in the shade and chilled.  The pollen count must be high because, despite my medication, I'm a bit sneezy and a bit itchy - not very nice but it's not that bad and the weather is predicted to moderate considerably anyway so that's fine.

This morning started well with my Oddbox delivery waiting on the doorstep.  The produce is lovely and I can see that I will be eating extremely healthily to use it all up - I think I will start today by making a pot of ratatouille type vegetable stew that I can freeze in portions and go from there.

I meant to start the sourdough loaves yesterday but Bubbles wasn't playing ball.  I gave her another feed late afternoon and she was beautiful today so I have made the dough and it's almost time for the first stretch and folds.  It's warm already so I expect I will be able to bake late afternoon which is just perfect.

It's not quite June yet but I will do the usual start of the month stuff - read the gas meter, sharpen the knives and check the boiler pressure.   And I will be popping round to Beth's with her loaves.

Apart from that, it is a lazy day and I will make the most of it because tomorrow is busier - but it will be very pleasant indeed.

Time to say goodbye and do some stretch and folds (on the dough, not on me!).  Wishing you a lovely day with plenty of happy moments.  xx