BUSY

Not only has it been a busy time in the garden but Doug has had problems with his medication since his stroke.  He was prescribed a beta blocker which slowed him down.  He was having trouble walking up the drive and, on the Parkinson's walks, only just managed walking with slower walkers at the back.  

About a week after he was discharged this came to a head when he was doing his sit ups at night and had only done a couple when his heart 'played up' and he ended up with a panic attack and no sleep.  The next day the surgery was most apologetic as a doctor was sick and they couldn't fit him in so he went to the pharmacy and stopped the beta blocker.  He saw the G.P. the following day but his  anxiety and sleepless nights continued and he has had several visits to the doctor with 3 different prescriptions.  

Finally, last night Melatonin worked leaving him feeling good today and not all drugged up.  We just hope it continues to work.

On a happier note one of the ladies on the Parkinson's walk asked Doug if he would donate a painting for a raffle for Parkinsons so he framed the one below for them.

WHANGAREI MARITIME FESTIVAL

Whangarei Harbour is used by Mariners from all over the world to overwinter, shelter from hurricanes and have maintenance done.  A group of them formed The Black Ball Yacht Club and they organize the Maritime Festival.  This is its second year but the first time we have attended.

 

                                                      The R. Tucker Thompson is a training ship

 Below one of several small steam boats is sailing past with passengers

An excellent group singing sea shanties

Some of the crowds

There were a lot of dogs all on leads and very well behaved

A former Auckland Pilot boat

Some more small steam ships

SATURDAY

The first weekend since the clocks went forward for daylight savings and I overslept so we didn't get to the Growers' Market until just after 7.30 a.m. only to find that all the tomatoes had sold.  I was able to get some good plants though. A punnet of beans, a couple of tomatoes, a couple of cucumber and some spring onions.  The plants are very reasonable and good quality so I am growing less from seed. 

On leaving the Market we pass the Library so I went to drop off a book that is due and noticed this bike with the wisteria growing in its basket.   I couldn't resist taking a photo to share.

Have a good weekend.

WATERING CAN

Well more of a cross between a bucket and watering can.

Recently, I read about the Hachiman Japanese made designer watering cans and ordered one last week.  I was pleased with the overnight delivery (from Auckland) and am very pleased with the can itself. I got the large size which is only 5 litres but so well designed.  It feels quite sturdy and is easy to fill. There is no rose to block up and it pours well along the grooves.

We have a worm farm and I also make weed tea and a sieve fits in the top perfectly to strain both of these .

 It could perhaps be a bit larger but I am thrilled with it.