Elder

The elder tree is well out in leaf. Normally I spot this as soon as it happens, but the shutters are sealed shut (the catch is broken so we screw then shut for security when we go away, and Mr B did it last time and I can’t undo it), so I missed it.

Lots of outdoor work today and, despite my assurance to myself that I would wear gloves for weeding, I did not and have fingers full of bramble thorns.

On the plus side, mange-tout were planted, and most beds were weeded. Meanwhile, Mr B pimped the pergola I built years ago so it will be strong enough to have a half-proper roof. Mostly it was put up with the power of swearing. Super hot again today: our shade thermometer read 26 Celsius. And the barbecue season was officially launched with spatchcock chicken and outdoor eating in the evening.