Proof of impermanence

Another trip to the country, this time with two Hungarians in tow – Denes Andras, one of the Hungarian travel teachers came with us plus another friend. Four bodies, 2 trays of trees, the picnic and some enthusiasm set off to do a bit more.

We planted some more seedlings in our shelter belt that is being established along the south east border. Although the winds are not srong from that direction the view to the neighbour is not so inspiring so the shelter is to create beauty and privacy. Country conditions are more extreme than city living and this day was no exception. It was cold and wettish.

After a tasty slabs of bread, avocado and toppings for lunch we did a few more then showed Denes around the retreat land. He liked the sheep more than the trees so we called it quits after that and went back to the centre in preparation for the evening lecture.

Next week we went off to plant our little trees again. There had been a strong Nor’wester since we were up last week – common around spring time – fierce, gusty, drying and destructive. It caught the hut in its most vulnerable spot – full blast into the front door. Unhooked the door, smashed it against the steel cladding piercing a hole in the iron and breaking the glass.

Time for a proper door we think. We will invest in a new aluminium door that is strong and easier to fit, won’t buckle and will withstand intense heat, wind and rain. Although not cheap – we will be thankful in the long run. We planted some more trees – it is quite involved – they need to be well rooted, watered, feed, supported with a stick and shelter bag, mulched with carpet and held down with rocks and sods. This way they tend to have a higher survival rate. Not a 5 minute job but worth the effort in the long run.