Páraig likes wine and winter flowers. He also looks forward to 2024 but not squatting and stooping to photograph the hellebores.
I do hope your Christmas was as wonderful as ours here in Dungarvan. The weather outside was frightful and several attempts to go cycling with friends were abandoned easily, bar one. Storm Gerrit breezed through on Tuesday night into Wednesday and there was very little time to grab a few photographs that would prove I actually did get outside.
1. Gaultheria
Featured recently, Gaultheria procumbens is a dainty little thing.
2. Camellia and Wine
The buds are appearing on Camellia, yet it’s the wine bottle that catches my attention. Similar to last week, Marion thinks I’ve lost my marbles. I have six bottles, all red, in various spots, put in place last May. Through the summer, they were soon surrounded and overgrown by annuals. Now I can see again.
3. Heather
Heather is in flower and leaves are gone to ground.
4. Hellebore
The first of the Hellebores are peeking through. As always I have to practice squats and forward stooping in order to photograph them.
5. Cyclamen
Cyclamen coum, one of the hardiest, is providing a small splash of colour. At this time of the year even a small splash is better than none.
6. Polyanthus
Plenty polyanthus flowers in bloom or ready to burst.
Summary
A quick dash around the garden and a time-pressed account to match.
Clockwise from top centre:
Pop over to Jim’s Site to discover more Six-on-Saturday updates. Until next time, I hope you get to enjoy some time in the garden. Happy New Year to all.
Nollaig Shona from me. I wish you all the very best for the year ahead. May your spuds sprout early and your snails drown in beer.
Páraig likes dreaming of a white Christmas and reblogging old articles. He also likes his new book and some strange satire, but not late-sprouting spuds or cows in his garden.
Here’s my Christmas 2020 post again. It’s on my old unused blog, still alive in the blog cloud. While I’m cycling and having trifle, it’s here for you.
Memory from 2020: “I include in my thoughts those who have a home but are unable to be there because of travel restrictions. Even in a world of Zoom, there’s nothing quite like pulling a cracker.”
Nollaig Shona from us here in South-East Ireland. I wish you all the very best for the year ahead. May your spuds sprout early and your snails drown in beer.
You’d never guess that in 2020 we were three years younger. So we’re YOU. In any case, we love one another better now. You see we’ve had three more years to understand how loving works and we are committed for the long-term.
This message has been sponsored by Baileys
Nath Cainte Gaeilge – Irish Proverb
Bíonn gach duine lách go dtéann bó in a gharraí.
Everyone’s kind until a cow breaks into their garden.
Do you like dry cold weather? What about evergreen shrubs and inexpensive garden ornaments? Yellow weather alerts, surely not?
Páraig likes dry cold weather. He also likes evergreen shrubs and inexpensive garden ornaments, but not Yellow Alerts.
Happy Christmas to one and all. I hope it will be everything you wish for.
Here on the SE Irish coast it was another mild December week with the added bonus of some rain by night. The cold front to the north of Scotland was firmly held back until Thursday, and then it let rip with a Yellow Wind Alert. Being honest, I don’t mind a cold snap. Rushing around crowded shops in mild weather is exhausting.
Thanks to Jim at Garden Ruminations, for hosting Six on Saturday. Pop over there to discover updates from participating writer-gardeners. In the meanwhile, here’s my six:
1. Crab Apple
Leaves are gone and the fruits are ripening. Blackbirds have been sampling, and they will return to feed at the right time.
2. Unknown
From my mam’s garden. Can anyone shed light on what it is? Nerine, I wonder?
3. Another Mystery
I’m going to hazard a guess that this might be Bachelor’s Buttons, known better as Feverfew and officially as Tannecetum. Even if I’m incorrect, the three names are correct for the plant I’m thinking of. I do love those skeletonised seedheads.
4. Conifer
Looking for evergreens, I took a shot of this conifer. About three metres in height, it is magnificent throughout the year, and especially now. Putting a trellis on the wall will happen in the spring.
5. Ornament
Garden ornaments are expensive, so I used this disused oil-boiler flue. I like it, despite the protestations of my good wife. I remind her that it’s my garden too. Recycle: repurpose items rather than dump.
6. Euonymus & Cotoneaster
Another evergreen, Euonymus ‘something-something’ pleases me also. The Cotoneaster ‘Queen of Carpets’ is hugging it beautifully. I’ve been able to get half a dozen rooted slips from it last year and more to come soon. It can run riot, but I’m thrilled to see it climbing the wall. The planned trellis will help keep it secure.
Summary
Clockwise from top left:
Crab apple
Nerine?
Feverfew?
Conifer
Free onamental flue
Euonymus
Pop over to Jim’s Site to discover more Six-on-Saturday updates. Until next time, I hope you get to enjoy some time in the garden.
I like strolling the garden before breakfast to the accompaniment of music. I also like WeatherShot and cycling, but not too many plants in straight lines.
Páraig likes strolling the garden before breakfast to the accompaniment of music. He also likes WeatherShot and cycling, but not too many plants in straight lines.
I’ve had an on-off love affair with WeatherShot. It’s a phone app, sadly no longer being updated. I bought a subscription several years ago but could not really justify spending €30 the following year because I had not used it as much as I thought I would. Recently, I renewed again in exchange for the price of two bottles of wine, and this past week I’ve enjoyed using it every bit as much as drinking wine. Life is rarely either/or.
Rather than half a dozen Saturday photos, there’s one per day. I may be tempted to continue going forward. Here on the SE Irish coast it was another mild murky December week, recorded here along with gardening memories. Thanks to Jim at Garden Ruminations, for hosting Six on Saturday. Rules is here.
Sunday
Instagram @thethreehairs
Sunday was wet and windy. I did manage to cycle about 70km but I needed a mince pie and coffee midway. Taken before I left, the pigeons, doves, sparrows and others are enjoying a hearty breakfast. Everything gobbled up by the time I returned.
Monday
It’s been my habit to spend a short few minutes each morning surveying the garden. I wear my headphones and have ‘The Garden Song‘ on repeat. I notice things and my advice to myself is: Notice everything, but do not touch. This photograph reminds me to rearrange the patio pots. Straight lines are not always the best.
Tuesday
These little annual Begonias are against the west-facing wall and they’re still in flower! The stone trough is topped with 2cm of loose stone to retain moisture in summer and heat in winter. If I told you these three plans survived last winter, would you believe me? You better believe it! They were planted in June 2022. If they survive again, they’ll need feeding.
Wednesday
Skimmia jap. ‘Temptation’ is doing OK, but only just. It would rather be in the ground. During the summer, it became much too dry. All life dies without water, and fails to thrive without enough.
Thursday
I think it’s obvious that I like Cordylines in containers. I’m told it’s a plant that does not do well if moved, but as they are in pots I can move them whenever and wherever I like. ‘Torbay Dazzler’ is out on its own, dead centre.
Friday
It’s complicated. I bought four red Christmassy pots, each containing one Cyclamen. Later, I took each of these lovely Cyclamen(s) from the four pots and put them together here. Why, you ask? Well, these are not winter hardy so the plan is to drape a towel over them whenever frost is likely. Can you spot the two chopsticks? You’ll know why I’ve put them in. I’m thinking that I have a touch of OCD, but these plants will bring me so much joy in these dark days.
Pop over to Jim’s Site to discover more Six-on-Saturday updates. Until next time, I hope you get to enjoy some time in the garden.
Inch by inch, row by row, Gonna make this garden grow, All it takes is a rake and a hoe, And a piece of fertile ground.
Inch by inch, row by row, Someone bless these seeds I sow, Someone warm them from below, 'Till the rain comes tumblin' down.
Pullin' weeds and pickin' stones, Man is made of dreams and bones, Feel the need to grow my own, 'Cause the time is close at hand.
Grain for grain, sun and rain, Find my way in Nature's chain, Tune my body and my brain To the music from the land.
Plant your rows straight and long, Temper them with prayer and song, Mother Earth will make you strong If you give her loving care.
An old crow watching hungrily From his perch in yonder tree, In my garden I'm as free As that feathered thief up there.
The proverb “Even the sharpest ear cannot hear an ant singing” is a beautiful metaphor that reflects the idea that some things are simply beyond human perception or understanding, no matter how attentive or perceptive one may be.
Instagram @thethreehairs
This Sudanese proverb suggests that there are limits to what we can perceive or comprehend, and that we should remain humble in the face of the vastness of the world and the limitations of our own senses. It serves as a reminder that there are aspects of life and the natural world that may elude us, despite our best efforts to comprehend them.
Páraig likes polyanthus and dangling baubles. He also likes air-layering and red wine, but not conifers that lean non-veratically.
This post featured on an old blog back in mid-December 2020, as Coronavirus spread rapidly worldwide. I’ll say nothing, except for one thing… The wine was delicious, and the article turned out OK. Now that I see that on screen, it’s not right to say nothing and then add just one thing.
Come along with me, back to 2020…
I must make a start. It’s Friday wine-time and there’s not a child washed. Retirement can be exasperating, but never fear! Red wine and words will flow freely, so grab a coffee, put your phonefón on flight mode and join with me for some random Six on Saturday reflections.
First Glass
In an attempt to draw the eye away from the household bins, the baubles dangle on the bare Acer. This is a recent addition to the threetrí permanent baubles. Initially, I thought I could see the photographer’s reflection. Thought made a fool of me this time!
Relegated from inside
Second
I am definitely reflected clearly in this one. It was taken a few dayscúpla lá before wine-time. Regular readers may remember I used this ball to try air-layering. I was assured that eight weeks would be enough time and roots would form inside. Well, thought made a fool of me for a second time. I opened it (and others) only to find that nothing happened. I regret to say that the solution is… more wine. How exasperating!
Failure is the best medicine
Now The Third
Here, I’m opting for a virtual reflection, the sort that usually starts in my head. The best time for head reflection is between the second and third glassgloine. Everything after that becomes as blurred as thought.
There is very little garden colour at this time on Friday evening, so it was wonderful to see the polyanthus in full bloom a few days ago. That’s a wholesome thought, articulated clearly.
Polyanthus
Pacing Myself
I’m only halfway there, and I’ve decided to cease and desist in order to continue clear articulation. The bottlebuidéal has been moved out of reach. I snapped this last Wednesday, shortly after a rowdy group of starlings pecked ravenously at something within. I know not what was within, nor the name used for a group of starlings. I don’t even remember the name of the plant. The solution is clear; wine will surely help. I’m reaching out.
Unknown rockery plant
Approaching Plastered State
This is an unplastered west-facing wall. It is seven feet tall, but that’s not important now. The photograph clearly shows the conifer leaning non-veratically Northwards. Of course its non-vertical! That’s what leaning actually means. This wine is really helping me to articulate clearly. I’m so happy that I took a break between glass three and four.
Too much wine
Mumbo Jumbo
I was given a beautiful bowl and lamp set when I left Ballinameela in 2007. The bowl lived a fruit-filled life on the kitchen table for many years. Last month it was upgraded to a garden birdbath, behind the hebe. Regularly filled with water, the birds sometimes visit it. Filled with water, as baths sometimes are, the birds visit it regularly.
They drink, bathe and perhaps enjoy looking at themselves. My final clear thought for the evening runs something like this…
A small amount of wine can lead to great fun. In this instance I learned about reduplicated phrases such as mumbo-jumbo that arrived in our everyday language. This is playfulness at its best! My favourite reduplicated phrase is…
Is it just hot, or is it HOT-hot?
The link to the original article and comments is HERE. It’s called Reflections Cum Vino.
Back to 2023
As I mention not rushing around, here’s a little something I wrote during the week about a Portuguese Proverb and the merits of doing Just One Thing.
Gardening is not only about cultivating plants and beautifying outdoor spaces; it also has incredible benefits for our mental health.
🌱 🌿
Gardening is not only about cultivating plants and beautifying outdoor spaces; it also has incredible benefits for our mental health. Here are some ways gardening can positively impact our well-being:
1️⃣ Stress relief: Spending time tending to plants and being surrounded by nature can help reduce stress levels. The peacefulness and tranquility of the garden can provide a sense of calm and relaxation.
2️⃣ Connection with nature: Gardening allows us to reconnect with the natural world, which can improve our overall mood and increase feelings of happiness. Being outdoors among plants and wildlife can bring a sense of harmony and connectedness.
3️⃣ Physical activity: Gardening involves physical activity, such as digging, planting, and weeding, which can help improve overall fitness. Regular exercise releases endorphins and promotes a positive mental state.
4️⃣ Sense of accomplishment: Seeing the growth and progress of our plants can give us a sense of achievement, boosting self-esteem and confidence. Gardening provides an opportunity to nurture and care for living things, which can be immensely rewarding.
5️⃣ Mindfulness and relaxation: Engaging in gardening activities requires focus and attention to detail. This mindful presence helps distract from everyday worries and promotes relaxation. The repetitive tasks of gardening, such as watering or pruning, can induce a meditative state.
6️⃣ Mental stimulation: Gardening stimulates our cognitive abilities by requiring planning, problem-solving, and learning about different plants. It can provide a sense of purpose and mental stimulation, enhancing brain function and memory.
7️⃣ Social interaction: Joining a gardening club or participating in community gardens offers opportunities for social interaction and connection. Sharing gardening experiences with others can foster a sense of belonging and create a supportive network.
Remember, cultivating plants is not only beneficial for our outdoor spaces but also for our mental well-being. So grab your gardening tools and start reaping the mental health benefits today! 🌸🌱🌼
Not to be confused with gardening at night, this is merely a photographic glimpse taken by night. I’d been keeping an eye on Jupiter to the south during the week and tracking the International Space Station. The nights have been cold and the sky clear. Venus is visible just before dawn. Yes, you’ve guessed that I’m a night owl.
In any event, ar aon nós, I noticed that the light of the kitchen and conservatory shone just enough light to allow me to attempt a few shots of nearby plants and planets.
At the risk of knowing I may be misquoted, here’s my tuppence worth:
The garden is a sanctuary. For some it’s walking barefoot; for others it’s growing food. We bring gardening into our hearts differently. I’m appreciating it after sunset.
Páraig: The Three Hairs Garden
Here are a few bobs & bits from another frosty week here on the SE Irish coast. Frosty until Wednesday, followed by a temperature rise and deluges of rain. Thanks to Jim at Garden Ruminations, for hosting Six on Saturday. Rules is here.
Venus
Taken at dawn facing south, Venus is the star of the sky. Actually, it’s a planet, not a star. I’ve just confused myself. Venus is the second planet from the sun. Here, it shines through the almost-bare Crabapple tree.
Wish on a planet.
Just below it and to the right is Spica, one of the twenty brightest stars in the Northern sky. You may not be able to see it, but it’s there, just 250 million light years away. It may be eclipsed by a tiny apple.
Moon
Taken last week, just after the Full Moon. In the foreground is a tall bamboo. It will crack the pot shortly, I’m informed. It grows beneath a large Acer and does a decent job of filling the empty space, caused by me not pruning it for many years. The bamboo needs to have a saucer underneath from early spring until Halloween, otherwise it would not retain enough water. In winter, when the Acer is bare, the bamboo comes into its own.
Cordyline
Taken at 11.30pm, this is one of several Cordylines, surrounded by pots of common ivy. I have topped up the large pot with a two-centimetre layer of coffee grounds. Next week I intend planting three or four polyanthus here. Watch this empty space.
Lomandra
I love the algae on the terracotta pot, in which the annual Begonias are still alive. On the left is Lomandra longifolia, and Lysmachia flowing over the edge.
Carex
Slightly out of focus, the Carex buchannii (Firefox or perhaps Red Rooster) is beneath the bamboo. It seems content there. Also, despite several frosty nights, the nasturtium is hanging in there. I am fortunate to have a sheltered garden.
Vacant Chair
I don’t know why this seat is where it is. I haven’t sat on it yet this year, as it is overshadowed by the Fuchsia. Access from the front is restricted too. I do like looking at it as I pass by, and I do think night photography does it justice.
Pop over to Jim’s Site to discover more Six-on-Saturday updates. Until next time, I hope you get to enjoy some time in the garden.
I like dry cold weather. If I had a choice, I’d rather dry warm weather.
Two cold weeks and some light frost by night, replaced now by some heavy rain and warmer temperatures. I prefer dry cold weather. If I had a choice, I’d rather dry warm weather.
Here we are for the final day of ‘A Week of Flowers 2023’ created in 2020 by Cathy over at Words and Herbs. Cathy’s Day 7 is HERE. What a great idea to remind ourselves of summer in these dark days! It also reminds me these scenes will return again. The world turns with us.
I’m finishing this lovely week with photographs not from my garden. Both are supplied by florists.
Birthday
My dear wife celebrated her birthday yesterday and the occasion needed to be marked appropriately.
Wedding
Our daughter married at the end of July. This image brings back wonderful memories of celebrating with family and friends.
Thank you so much Cathy for your efforts in gathering us together for this very lovely idea. I’m really glad I came upon it this year, and it is noted on my calendar for 2024. Thanks to all the lovely folks who joined in, many of whom I already knew, and new gardening friends on my radar.
P.
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