A different kind of summer.

This summer has been a busy one so far. Apart from the usual stuff, I’ve spent my time in the yard battling invasive English Ivy. Check my earlier post for more on this.

Beyond that, taming this yard is going to take a few seasons because of the lay of the land. It is a slopy, hilly yard with pockets of ancient uneven areas and holes. I dream a lot about mulch these days. And tools. Yes, tools.

I’ve learnt how to use a drill, small chain saw, mower, and tree lopper in my quest to give the yard a somewhat ‘clean but wild’ look. So I have a lot to thank that invasive ivy for. I’d never have touched these tools had it not started with, ‘Hmmm… I need to take care of that ivy at least this summer.’

If you’ve ever gardened, you know that, ‘Oh I’ll work just one hour in the yard and garden today,’ does not cut it. It takes at least a couple of hours when I get out there. Usually more. Overall, body pain aside, it is enjoyable. I’ve never felt or slept better.

Anyone who craves those ‘sculpted arms’ can forget the gym. Just grab that pair of garden shears and get to work. Your arms will sculpt themselves in a few months without paying the world to get them and without having to tolerate pesky trainers. And oh, never plant invasive species in your garden and yard. They will come back to haunt you.