We're still here!!

Just to let you know that we have not melted away. It has turned out to be an extraordinary summer. We were just reflecting that the temperatures have been on average in the low thirties for the last three months and during that time we have had about six days when there has been a little precipitation some time during the day or night. I continue to get up about 6.30am to water, hindered a little as the days are shortening, and we still have a semblance of a garden in some places. I know gardeners always moan about the weather, its too hot, too cold, too much rain not enough but what else would we talk about?

What do gardeners do when it is too hot to work outside? Answer, plan for next year. Ever the optimists we have been trying to find some trees for the back field. This is no easy task as we live in a "difficult site". We need trees that will survive in very dry, shallow alkaline soil and endure temperatures of 30 - 40C to minus 18 C. With a lot of research we have found trees that fit the bill; now we have to source them. Furthermore I have new ideas for the Serpentine Bed noted in my "little red book" for the autumn.

Owl Watch

We mentioned a few weeks ago that we have "baby owls" in the pigeonnier. They start to screech about 9.30 each evening to remind their parents that they are hungry. However the adults rarely leave to go hunting until the church clock strikes 10pm. If it is not too hot, ie. below 30degrees C we take up viewing positions about 9.50pm. Countless evenings John has set up his camera to capture the owls setting off to hunt.  However he is not the most patient wildlife photographer and gives up ten seconds before they take flight.

We have not seen the fledglings yet but are ever hopeful.

ps   we saw the owlets tonight!  A birdwatching friend came especially to see them this evening and the whole family put on a wonderful display for her!