11 July 2019

summer deferred

Here on the hill-top we await the sequel to summer. Late spring was dry and warm, but as we approach mid-July we sit under clouds and showers. We've had almost 3/4" this past few days, nearly the average July in a hurry. No matter, the thrush and grosbeaks still sing and flowers continue to bloom - probably with more enthusiasm than usual!

In the meantime the large yard goes unmown. That is partly due to rain but also to a flat tire on the riding mower. I finally have a spare in hand, but no rush to put it on while showers remain. Once the dry weather resumes I'll definitely have my yardwork cut out for me.

I have yet to attack the blackberry hillside, but I've a better tool for it at least. A rechargable 18v trimmer also awaits better weather, and I have blades to replace the string for more effective vine removal. We'll see how that goes.

Among other items that have been accomplished though, is the stone walk below the deck. It looks nice, far better now that some weed-block fabric sits below it! A nice place to walk, and also less of a hassle when the mower comes out - that corner of the yard was always awkward to get trimmed..

I've also trimmed several trees back, and relocated the weather gage to a spot with fewer branches overhanging it to mess with my rainfall totals.