How to build a Timber Deck for your garden

 I spent 32 years in the garden landscaping trade running my own business.  This is the way tobuild a deck that will last. 

Building a timber deck for your garden can be a rewarding and enjoyable project that will add value to your home and provide you with a beautiful outdoor space to relax and entertain. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to build a timber deck for your garden:

Step 1: Plan and design your deck

Before you start building your deck, it is important to take some time to plan and design it. This will help you to ensure that your deck is the right size and shape for your garden and that it meets your needs.

• Consider the size of your garden: You will need to make sure that your deck is not too large for your garden. You also need to make sure that there is enough space around the deck for people to walk and for plants to grow.

• Think about how you will use your deck: Will you be using your deck for relaxing, entertaining, or both? This will help you to decide on the size and layout of your deck.

• Draw a plan of your deck: This will help you to visualize your deck and make sure that it is the right size and shape. You can also use this plan to get an estimate of the materials you will need.

Step 2: Gather your materials

Once you have a plan for your deck, you can start to gather your materials. You will need:

• Timber: You will need to choose a type of timber that is suitable for outdoor use. Some popular choices include cedar, redwood, and pine.

• Joists: Joists are the horizontal beams that support the deck boards. You will need to choose joists that are the right size and strength for your deck.

• Ledger board: The ledger board is the beam that attaches the deck to the house. You will need to choose a ledger board that is the right size and strength for your deck.

• Deck boards: Deck boards are the planks that make up the surface of the deck. You will need to choose deck boards that are the right size and thickness for your deck.

• Fasteners: You will need a variety of fasteners to attach the different parts of the deck together. These include nails, screws, and bolts.

Step 3: Prepare the site

Once you have gathered your materials, you can start to prepare the site for your deck. This will involve:

• Clearing the area: Remove any plants, debris, or other obstacles from the area where you will be building your deck.

• Leveling the ground: Make sure that the ground is level and smooth. This will help to ensure that your deck is stable and level.

• Digging footings: Footings are the concrete supports that will support the deck posts. You will need to dig holes for the footings and pour concrete into them.

Step 4: Build the deck frame

The deck frame is the skeleton of the deck. It is made up of the posts, beams, joists, and ledger board.

• Install the posts: The posts are the vertical beams that support the deck. You will need to attach the posts to the footings and make sure that they are plumb and level.

• Install the beams: The beams are the horizontal beams that support the joists. You will need to attach the beams to the posts and make sure that they are level.

• Install the joists: The joists are the horizontal beams that support the deck boards. You will need to attach the joists to the beams and make sure that they are spaced evenly apart.

• Install the ledger board: The ledger board is the beam that attaches the deck to the house. You will need to attach the ledger board to the house and make sure that it is level.

Step 5: Install the deck boards

The deck boards are the planks that make up the surface of the deck. You will need to:

• Choose the right type of deck board: There are many different types of deck boards available. You will need to choose a type that is suitable for your climate and that you like the look of.

• Cut the deck boards to size: You will need to cut the deck boards to the right size to fit your deck.

• Install the deck boards: You will need to attach the deck boards to the joists. You can use nails, screws, or hidden fasteners.

Step 6: Finish your deck

Once you have installed the deck boards, you can finish your deck by adding a railing, stairs, and any other finishing touches that you like.

Here are some additional tips for building a timber deck for your garden:

• Make sure that you follow all of the building codes in your area.

• Hire a professional if you are not comfortable building a deck yourself.

• Get the necessary permits before you start building your deck.

• 
  

Peace is needed

 Areas at war 

In a world where strife and conflict reign, Where shadows linger, leaving hearts in pain, Amidst the chaos, a voice so clear, Whispers of peace, a message to adhere.

Peace, not the absence of opposing might, But harmony's embrace, a beacon shining bright, Where differences dissolve, and unity takes hold, A tapestry of souls, their stories to unfold.

Peace, a fragile flame, yet strong and true, Resisting the winds of discord, ever new, A battle waged not with swords or guns, But with empathy's touch, where hatred shuns.

Peace, a garden where compassion grows, Nurtured by kindness, where tolerance bestows, Where hands reach out, bridging every divide, In unity's embrace, where hearts abide.

Peace, the only battle worth waging, A symphony of souls, their voices engaging, A symphony of compassion, a symphony of grace, In harmony's embrace, humanity's rightful place.

Opinion on cancer

 Those who have been touched by cancer do not need me to say how soul destroying it can be.  This is my opinion and its only an opinion.  Please take care!

Cancer is a complex disease that is difficult to cure because it involves many different factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and the environment.

Here are some of the reasons why cancer is so hard to cure:

• Cancer is not one disease. There are over 200 different types of cancer, each with its own unique set of characteristics. This makes it difficult to develop treatments that are effective for all types of cancer.

• Cancer cells are very good at hiding from the immune system. This makes it difficult for the body to fight off the disease.

• Cancer cells can mutate quickly. This means that they can develop resistance to treatments, making them even more difficult to cure.

• Cancer is often diagnosed late. This means that the disease has had time to grow and spread, making it more difficult to treat.

Here are some things that you can do to reduce your risk of getting cancer:

• Eat a healthy diet. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit your intake of processed foods, red meat, and sugary drinks.

• Get regular exercise. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

• Don't smoke. Smoking is a major risk factor for many types of cancer.

• Protect yourself from the sun. Limit your exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and wear protective clothing when you are outdoors.

• Get regular cancer screenings. Regular screenings can help to detect cancer early, when it is most treatable.

Working night shifts may increase the risk of some types of cancer, such as breast cancer and leukemia. This is because working night shifts can disrupt the body's natural circadian rhythm, which can affect hormone levels and cell growth. However, more research is needed to confirm this link.

I hope this helps!

The government

 What I believe at present. 

I think the government needs to be more transparent and accountable to the people. They need to be more open about how they spend our money and be more willing to listen to our concerns.

The government also needs to be more effective in addressing the challenges facing our country. They need to be more proactive in solving problems like poverty, homelessness, and climate change.

I believe that the government can be a force for good in our world, but only if it is responsive to the needs of the people.

I would like to see the government focus on the following:

• Ensuring that everyone has access to basic necessities like food, shelter, and healthcare.
• Creating a more equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
• Protecting the environment for future generations.
• Promoting peace and cooperation between nations.

I believe that the government can make a positive difference in the world, but it needs to be willing to work for the people and be held accountable for its actions.

What really happens in the house of commons, just my thought

What really goes on in the house of commons I have often wondered.

 The House of Commons is the elected chamber of the Parliament of the United Kingdom. It is responsible for making laws, debating government policy, and holding the government to account. The House of Commons is made up of 650 Members of Parliament (MPs), who are elected by the public to represent their constituencies.

The day-to-day work of the House of Commons is divided into a number of different activities, including:

• Debates: MPs debate a wide range of issues, including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. Debates are typically held in the House of Commons Chamber, and they are broadcast live on television and online.

• Questions: MPs can ask questions of government ministers, either in the House of Commons Chamber or in written form. This is a way for MPs to scrutinize the government and to hold it to account.

• Committees: There are a number of committees in the House of Commons, which examine specific issues in detail. Committees can take evidence from experts and witnesses, and they can make recommendations to the government.

• Legislation: The House of Commons is responsible for passing legislation, which is the process by which laws are made. Legislation is typically introduced in the form of a bill, which is then debated and amended by MPs.

• Scrutiny: The House of Commons is responsible for scrutinizing the work of the government. This includes examining government spending, investigating government policy, and holding government ministers to account.

In addition to these day-to-day activities, the House of Commons also plays a number of other important roles, including:

• Representing the interests of the people: MPs are elected to represent the interests of their constituents. They do this by raising their constituents' concerns in Parliament, and by campaigning for policies that will benefit their constituents.

• Passing laws that improve people's lives: The House of Commons is responsible for passing laws that will improve the lives of people in the UK. This includes laws on things like education, health, and the environment.

• Holding the government to account: The House of Commons is responsible for holding the government to account. This means making sure that the government is acting in the best interests of the people, and that it is spending public money wisely.

The House of Commons is a vital part of the UK's democracy. It plays a crucial role in making sure that the government is accountable to the people, and that the UK is a fair and just society.

Brought up with the beatles

 My time

The Beatles were an English rock band formed in Liverpool in 1960. They are regarded as the most influential band of all time and were integral to the development of 1960s counterculture and the recognition of popular music as an art form.

Rooted in skiffle, beat, and 1950s rock 'n' roll, their sound incorporated elements of classical music and traditional pop in innovative ways. The band also explored music styles ranging from folk and Indian music to psychedelia and hard rock.

Led by primary songwriters Lennon and McCartney, the Beatles evolved from Lennon's previous group, the Quarrymen, and built their reputation by playing clubs in Liverpool and Hamburg over three years from 1960, initially with Stuart Sutcliffe playing bass. The core trio of Lennon, McCartney, and Harrison, together since 1958, went through a succession of drummers, including Pete Best, before inviting Starr to join them in 1962.

Their manager, Brian Epstein, secured them a recording contract with EMI Records in 1962. With their producer, George Martin, they released a series of hit singles that topped charts in the UK and many other countries.

The Beatles' popularity first emerged as a localized phenomenon in Great Britain in late 1962 and spread through a phenomenon known as "Beatlemania", which arrived in the United States in early 1964. Their albums and singles regularly sold millions of copies worldwide, and they were also highly successful touring performers.

The band members' early public personae as clean-cut, polite youths were gradually replaced by more mature and provocative attitudes, which were reflected in their music and fashion. They regularly experimented with new recording techniques and musical styles, and their later work was influenced by a range of sources including Indian music, psychedelia, and hard rock.

Over the course of their career, the Beatles released twelve studio albums, numerous compilation albums, and a large number of singles and EPs. They sold over 600 million records worldwide, making them the best-selling music act of all time.

After a period of internal tensions and declining commercial performance, the band broke up in 1970. Since then, each member has pursued a solo career with varying degrees of success.

The Beatles' influence on popular culture is immense. They are considered to be one of the most important and influential bands of all time, and their music has had a profound impact on generations of musicians and listeners around the world.

Their groundbreaking work in songwriting, studio production, and music video production has also had a lasting impact on the music industry. The Beatles' music continues to be popular today, and their legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists.

Sources

info

To buy or not to buy

 

Whether or not it is unreasonable to say no presents at Christmas depends on your personal circumstances and reasons for doing so. Some people may feel that Christmas is a time for giving and receiving gifts, and that not exchanging presents would be a departure from tradition. Others may feel that the pressure to buy and give gifts can be stressful and expensive, and that it would be more meaningful to focus on spending time with loved ones instead. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy Christmas presents is a personal one, and there is no right or wrong answer.

There are a number of potential benefits to saying no presents at Christmas, including:

• Reduced stress: The pressure to buy and give gifts can be stressful, and taking away this pressure can free up time and energy to focus on other aspects of the holiday season.
• Reduced spending: The cost of Christmas gifts can add up quickly, and saying no presents can help you to save money.
• Increased focus on family and friends: By taking the focus away from gifts, you can focus more on spending time with loved ones and creating lasting memories.

Of course, there are also some potential drawbacks to saying no presents at Christmas, including:

• Disappointment: Some people may be disappointed if they do not receive a gift at Christmas, and this could lead to conflict or resentment.
• Breaking with tradition: If exchanging gifts is an important part of your family's Christmas tradition, saying no presents could make you feel like you are missing out on an important part of the holiday.
• Hurting feelings: If you are giving gifts to some people but not others, this could hurt the feelings of those who are not receiving gifts.

Christmas gifts or not Christmas gifts

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to say no presents at Christmas is a personal one. If you are considering doing so, it is important to weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks carefully and to discuss your decision with your loved ones beforehand.

Here are some tips for having a meaningful Christmas without presents:

• Focus on spending time together: Make time for activities that you can all enjoy together, such as playing games, watching movies, or cooking a meal together.
• Donate to charity instead of exchanging gifts: If you still want to give something for Christmas, consider donating to a charity that is important to you.
• Focus on acts of service: Do something nice for someone else, such as volunteering your time or cooking them a meal.
• Create new traditions: Start a new Christmas tradition that does not involve exchanging gifts.

By following these tips, you can have a meaningful and enjoyable Christmas without the stress and expense of buying and giving gifts.

The Budget

The Budget

 The Autumn Statement 2023, delivered by Chancellor Jeremy Hunt on November 22, 2023, outlined a series of measures aimed at stabilizing the UK economy and addressing the ongoing cost of living crisis. The statement was met with mixed reactions from economists, businesses, and the public.

Here's a summary of the key points from the Autumn Statement:

• Tax cuts: The government announced a series of tax cuts, including a reduction in the basic rate of income tax from 20% to 19% and a cut in corporation tax from 19% to 17%.
• Spending increases: The government also announced a number of spending increases, including additional funding for the NHS, education, and social care.
• Borrowing: The government's budget deficit is expected to increase to £177 billion in 2023-24, up from £134 billion in 2022-23.

Economists have expressed mixed opinions about the Autumn Statement. Some have praised the government's focus on tax cuts and spending increases, while others have warned that the increases in borrowing could lead to higher interest rates and slower economic growth.

Businesses have also reacted differently to the statement. Some have welcomed the tax cuts, while others have expressed concerns about the potential for higher inflation.

The public's reaction to the Autumn Statement has also been mixed. Some have welcomed the focus on tax cuts and spending increases, while others have expressed concerns about the impact of the statement on their household budgets.

Overall, the Autumn Statement is a mixed bag. It includes some positive measures, such as tax cuts and spending increases, but it also comes with increased borrowing and the potential for higher interest rates. The long-term impact of the statement will depend on how the economy performs in the coming months and years.

Here are some additional thoughts on the Autumn Statement:

• The government's focus on tax cuts is likely to be welcomed by businesses and individuals, but it could also lead to higher inflation.
• The spending increases on the NHS, education, and social care are welcome, but they may not be enough to address the challenges facing these sectors.
• The increase in borrowing is a concern, but it is important to note that the government's debt-to-GDP ratio is still lower than it was in the years following the 2008 financial crisis.

The Autumn Statement is a significant event for the UK economy, and it is likely to have a significant impact on businesses and individuals in the coming months and years. It is important to stay informed about the latest developments and to make informed decisions about your finances.

Old age and wisdom

 

Old age indeed is a gift of wisdom and knowledge, a treasure trove of experiences and insights accumulated over a lifetime. While the young may sometimes perceive older individuals as out of touch or lacking in understanding, they fail to recognize the wealth of knowledge and perspective that comes with age.

Those who have weathered life's storms and emerged stronger and wiser possess a depth of understanding that can only be gained through firsthand experience. They have witnessed the ebb and flow of life, the triumphs and tribulations, the joys and sorrows that shape the human experience.

The young, often brimming with energy and enthusiasm, may dismiss the wisdom of their elders, seeing them as relics of a bygone era. Yet, it is from these seasoned souls that we can draw valuable lessons, gaining insights into the complexities of life and the resilience of the human spirit.

So, let us open our hearts and minds to the wisdom of our elders, recognizing that their experiences and perspectives can enrich our own lives. Let us seek their guidance, not as a sign of weakness, but as an opportunity to learn from their vast knowledge and grow as individuals.

Embrace the wisdom of age, for it is a gift that should be cherished and honored.

Stopping the boats

 How do we stop the Boats from France 

The issue of migration and asylum is a complex and sensitive one, and there is no easy answer. It is important to remember that people are fleeing their homes for a reason, often due to violence, persecution, or poverty. They are not simply choosing to come to the UK or any other country for economic reasons.

The UK has a long history of providing asylum to those who need it, and this is a humanitarian responsibility. Turning away those who are fleeing for their lives would be a betrayal of our values.

There are a number of factors that contribute to the number of people seeking asylum in the UK. These include:

• The ongoing conflict in Syria, which has displaced millions of people.
• The instability in countries such as Afghanistan, Eritrea, and Somalia.
• The persecution of minority groups in countries such as China and Iran.

There are a number of things that the UK can do to address the issue of migration:

• Work to resolve the conflicts and instability in the countries of origin of asylum seekers.
• Provide more support to countries in the region to help them to deal with the refugee crisis.
• Make it easier for refugees to resettle in the UK legally and safely.

It is also important to remember that migration can have a positive impact on the UK. Refugees and asylum seekers often bring with them skills and talents that can benefit our economy and society.

The question of where people seek asylum is a complex one, and there is no easy answer. France is a safe country, but it is also facing its own challenges in dealing with the refugee crisis. The UK has a long history of providing asylum to those who need it, and this is a responsibility that we should not shy away from.

We should also remember that the UK is a wealthy country with a strong economy. We have the resources to help people who are fleeing for their lives, and we should do so. Turning away those who are in need would be a betrayal of our values.

Weird Dreams

 Weird dreams can be fascinating, disturbing, or even hilarious. They can be a reflection of our deepest fears and desires, or they can be completely random and nonsensical. Whatever the cause, weird dreams can leave us feeling puzzled, intrigued, or even scared.

There are many theories about why we have weird dreams. Some experts believe that they are a way for our brains to process emotions that we are too uncomfortable to deal with during the day. Others believe that they are a way for our minds to explore different possibilities and scenarios. Still others believe that they are simply a byproduct of our brain's activity during sleep.

Whatever the reason, weird dreams can be a source of creativity and inspiration. Many artists, writers, and musicians have been inspired by their weird dreams. And even if they don't make sense, they can still be a fun and entertaining part of our sleeping life.

So next time you have a weird dream, don't be afraid to explore it. You might just discover something new about yourself or the world around you.

Here are some tips for understanding your weird dreams:

• Pay attention to your emotions. What emotions do you feel in your dream? Are you scared, happy, sad, or angry? These emotions can give you clues about what your dream is trying to tell you.
• Think about your dream symbols. What symbols do you see in your dream? Are there any objects, people, or places that have special meaning to you? These symbols can also give you clues about your dream's meaning.
• Write down your dream. As soon as you wake up, try to write down as much of your dream as you can remember. This will help you to remember the details of your dream and analyze its meaning.
• Talk to someone about your dream. Talking to a friend, family member, or therapist about your dream can help you to gain a different perspective on it.

Weird dreams can be a mystery, but they can also be a source of insight and inspiration. By taking the time to understand your weird dreams, you may just discover something unexpected about yourself.

For those who have lost a loved one

 

In the depths of sorrow's sea, Where tears mingle with the tides, I drift, a lost and lonely soul, With a heart that aches and hides.

The echoes of your laughter fade, Your touch, a distant memory, The warmth of your embrace, a phantom's grace, A bittersweet symphony.

In dreams, I see your radiant smile, Your eyes, like stars, so bright, But morning's light dispels the night, Leaving me lost in grief's dark mile.

The world spins on, indifferent, While my heart remains in pain, Aching for your presence, dear, In this world of sun and rain.

Yet, amidst the sorrow's sting, A flicker of hope ignites, That in the tapestry of life, Our souls will reunite.

In the realm where spirits soar, Where love knows no bounds or time, I'll find you there, my love so dear, And forever we'll entwine.