Sunday 6 June 2010

It's all in the preparation

On Thursday we set off to drive to Italy, should arrive at the casa on Sunday with stop overs in Strasbourg and Lake Garda. So exciting, we will be away for a month and I've spent many days trying on clothes and putting them either on the spare bed for packing or back in the wardrobe. I'm also taking out new sheets, towels and the like, its much easier to shop here or on line, my time in Italy is far too precious to spend traipsing round for household items, clothes, shoes and bags that's different. There's sock wool to select too, don't want to run out. I shall probably complete a pair on the journey out and another on the way back, perhaps I won't knit much while we are at the house as it should be hot but you never know.
I've been working flat out in the garden, its looking wonderful and that's the only thing that worries me slightly. The weeds will run riot but there's nothing I can do about that except keep weeding until we leave. Mr FF has rigged up an amazing automatic irrigation system, a series of sprays in the greenhouse which my tomatoes are loving and a leaky pipe outside for my tubs and plants moved out of the conservatory.I'm a bit concerned that if we have a month of wet weather and the outside plants are getting watered they will all be washed away but since the house sitting situation still isn't resolved this might not be a concern.
I am a bit disappointed that I shall miss so much happening in the garden
Lillies just about to burst open
the strawberries will have come and gone
my peonies I think are planning to open about Fridayand this pretty new clematis will flower and fade
But on the positive side a whole month away, I'm sure once we get to the ferry I shall have forgotten all about my garden, by the time we get to Italy I shall be so relaxed. I'm not dwelling on the fact that the day after we arrive the workmen will start to install new double glazed doors and windows, or pondering on the rolls of wallpaper we have bought on the assumption that two bedrooms will be redecorated. As for the wood burning stove that is being delivered direct to the house, Mr FF assures me that taking out the existing fireplace, putting in a new marble hearth and connecting the stove will be simple, I can't even imagine how we are going to lift the thing. As I said I'll soon forget about my garden.

13 comments:

  1. You are probably here in your Italian house by now so Benvenuto!

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  2. Your garden is looking bautiful, and it will still be beautiful, but different when you return home. Enjoy your time in Italy. I'm very jealous that you are going to Strasbourg. I worked there for 6 months when I was a student, and would love to return with Mr JK. Make sure you have enough sock wool - would be terrible to run out. Although I'm sure one of us would be more than happy to send you emergency rations!

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  3. What a lot of work you have been putting in! Your garden looks fabulous. Congratulations to Mr FF for the clever irrigation system. Have a fabulous holiday! Ros

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  4. Have a wonderful time away. Our peonies have opened over the last two days and, as always, the rain has started along with the wind.... So, as always, I have cut them and brought them to sit and enjoy! :O)

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  5. Your garden's looking splendid, I'm sure it will still be when you return and the weeds are easily dealt with! Have a wonderful trip to Italy :-)

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  6. Ahhh...I wondered why we are having stinky weather...because you are about to jet off to sunny climes!

    Either that or it's because the peonies are opening and mother natures knows I forgot to stake them and sent the wind and rain to smash them flat.

    Have wonderful time and buon viaggio!

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  7. Thank for this floral treat before going to Italy... enjoy your time there! Very exciting and slightly nerve-wracking about the fireplace though... Life is never dull, is it?! LOL! Happy Days ((HUGS))

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  8. Have a fabulous month in the sun. Can't help but ask if The Cousins will be house sitting in your absence?

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  9. Have a wonderful holiday! I love Lake Garda!

    Lots of rain here! I can see the grass growing :(

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  10. Oh to be in Italy for a whole month! yes your garden may need some attention when you get back but it won't be an impossible job! Have fun
    LOve
    Lyn
    xxx

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  11. Driving to Italy that spounds so exotic to those of us down here!

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  12. Have a great time in Italy, one of my favourite countries, lucky you!

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  13. I hope you have a wonderful holiday and I so wish I was there to eat your strawberries!!! What a shame you'll miss them.
    Some small knitting that doesn't sit on your lap should be the order of the day and baby clothes and socks will be perfect!!!
    I know you didn't mention baby clothes but it's just a suggestion!!!

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