Gary Strachan – "Write" Said Fred
Whimsical observations from deep within an erratic mind
A decent bottle of Bordeaux, a device which decanters wine prior to its onward journey into the glass, along with a hardback book titled 'Grumpy Old Git's Guide to Life'. Tokens of love bequeathed by my two adult children, showing their appreciation for the unconditional love I've bestowed upon them for almost three decades. Yesterday's... Continue Reading →
I’ve just been tidying up the front garden with my wee missus. To clarify, I mean Karen assisted me in the task of improving the aesthetic visage of le jardin de la maison Strachan; not that I’d used her as a substitute to secuteurs, a rake and a lawn edger! Using my late dad Malcolm's... Continue Reading →
I'm back home in the district of Leeds 15 after spending two days at my mother's abode in the domain of Wakefield 3. A time that's been highly productive, during which I've undertaken front and back garden maintenance for Mrs S senior; along with a few tasks I'd promised to undertake weeks ago but hadn't... Continue Reading →
Meteorological inclemency may've spoiled a multitude of Bank Holiday plans for our sceptred isles populace, however the shrubs and bedding plants providing natures kaleidoscopic bounty in my garden have benefited no end. Looked through my dining areas bay window the euphorbia, aquilegia, forget-me-nots, forsythia, rhododendrons, azaleas et al seem to have doubled in size they... Continue Reading →
Temperatures have taken a dip in the last few days. A meteorological change that'll no doubt incur the wrath of those wishing to partake in today's World Naked Gardening Day. The current chill will be no doubt distressing for gentlemen participants. Their 'bits' and a cold northerly wind not the most cordial of acquaintances. Certainly... Continue Reading →
Through the French doors a sun kissed lawn, tubs of kaleidoscopically coloured winter pansies, budding clematises and a variety of perennial shrubs provide the chromatic backdrop to today's prose. That being said, the lawn, although green and healthy, is currently not at its cosmetic best. Its facade tainted by several moribund weeds. These unwelcome plants... Continue Reading →
I've spent the last couple of days working with my brother Ian revamping part of our mother's back garden. Our remit the trimming and removal of numerous bags of overgrown clematis, buddleia, dead vines; along with the unearthing a low retaining wall and rectangle terracotta planting tubs. Also among the clerk of works (Mrs S... Continue Reading →
As a consequence of recent sporadic heavy precipitation, my lawn is once more emerald of colour. Long term arid conditions for several weeks prior rendering it's parched grass blades with a hue of mustard. Thankfully now, though, the chromatic synergy created by the immeasurable number of blades bears the dark green splendour of actor Angelina... Continue Reading →
Old wives tales - Unscientific advocacies of folklore, passed through clans courtesy of misguided indoctrination by elders and 'betters'? Or useful alternatives to conventional solutions? A topic I raise following earlier overhearing a friend bequeath one of these tales to an indifferent audience. Bestowed during a discussion on horticulture, they 'thrilled' congregated friends with advice... Continue Reading →