Friday, November 24, 2023

Gardening Tips

I spent over 32 years in the trade, owning a landscaping business, just passing on some tips that may help.  



Gardening Tips for Beginners

Gardening is a rewarding hobby that can provide you with fresh food, beautiful flowers, and a sense of accomplishment. It's also a great way to get exercise and enjoy the outdoors. If you're new to gardening, here are a few tips to help you get started:

1. Choose the right plants for your climate and location.

Not all plants can grow in all climates. Do some research to find out which plants are best suited for your area. You'll also need to consider the amount of sunlight your garden gets. Some plants need full sun, while others can tolerate shade.

2. Amend your soil.

The type of soil you have will affect how well your plants grow. If your soil is too sandy or too clay-like, you'll need to amend it with organic matter, such as compost or aged manure. This will help to improve the drainage and fertility of your soil.

3. Plant at the right time of year.

Different plants need to be planted at different times of year. For example, you'll want to plant cool-season crops, such as lettuce and peas, in the spring or fall. Warm-season crops, such as tomatoes and peppers, should be planted after the last frost in the spring.

4. Water your plants regularly.

The amount of water your plants need will depend on the type of plant, the weather, and the time of year. Generally speaking, you'll want to water your plants deeply and infrequently. This means watering them less often but for longer periods of time.

5. Mulch around your plants.

Mulch is a layer of material that is spread around the base of plants. This helps to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. There are many different types of mulch available, such as wood chips, straw, and bark.

6. Fertilize your plants.

Plants need nutrients to grow strong and healthy. You can fertilize your plants with organic or synthetic fertilizers. Organic fertilizers, such as compost or aged manure, are released slowly into the soil. Synthetic fertilizers are released quickly into the soil and can be more effective in providing plants with the nutrients they need.

7. Control pests and diseases.

Plants are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. There are a number of ways to control pests and diseases, such as using organic or synthetic pesticides, planting resistant varieties of plants, and practicing good sanitation.

8. Harvest your crops at the right time.

The time to harvest your crops will depend on the type of plant. For example, you'll want to harvest tomatoes when they are red and fully ripe. If you harvest your crops too early, they will not be as flavorful. If you harvest them too late, they may start to rot.

9. Enjoy your harvest!

Gardening is a labor of love, but it's also a very rewarding experience. There's nothing quite like enjoying the fruits of your labor by eating fresh vegetables and flowers that you've grown yourself.

Additional tips:

  • Start small. If you're new to gardening, don't try to do too much too soon. Start by planting a few easy-to-grow plants.
  • Join a gardening club or take a gardening class. This is a great way to learn from experienced gardeners and get advice on how to grow your own plants.
  • Be patient. Gardening takes time and effort. Don't get discouraged if your plants don't grow as quickly as you'd like. Just keep at it and you'll be rewarded with a beautiful and bountiful garden.

Law and Order, what are your thoughts

 The Law of Britain what are your thoughts.



Law and order in Britain is a complex and multifaceted issue with a long history. The current system of law and order in Britain is based on a number of principles, including:

  • The rule of law: This means that everyone is subject to the law, regardless of their status or position in society.
  • The independence of the judiciary: This means that the judges are free from political interference and are able to make impartial decisions based on the law.
  • The presumption of innocence: This means that an accused person is innocent until proven guilty.
  • The right to a fair trial: This means that an accused person has the right to be represented by a lawyer and to have a trial that is conducted according to the law.

The system of law and order in Britain is designed to protect the public from crime and to uphold the rights of individuals. However, it is not without its flaws. One of the most common criticisms of the system is that it is too lenient on criminals. Another criticism is that the system is too expensive and that it does not do enough to prevent crime.

Despite these criticisms, the system of law and order in Britain is generally considered to be effective. Crime rates have been declining in recent years, and the public is generally satisfied with the level of safety in Britain.

Here are some of the key challenges facing law and order in Britain today:

  • The rise of cybercrime: Cybercrime is a growing problem that is difficult to detect and prosecute.
  • The increasing complexity of crime: Crime is becoming increasingly complex and sophisticated, which is making it more difficult for law enforcement to investigate and prevent.
  • The changing nature of crime: Crime is becoming more diverse and is being committed by a wider range of people.

The government is taking a number of steps to address these challenges. These include:

  • Investing in new technologies to combat cybercrime: The government is investing in new technologies to help law enforcement agencies detect and prosecute cybercrime.
  • Improving the training of law enforcement officers: The government is providing more training to law enforcement officers to help them deal with the increasing complexity of crime.
  • Working with communities to prevent crime: The government is working with communities to prevent crime by investing in youth services and other crime prevention initiatives.

The future of law and order in Britain will be shaped by a number of factors, including the changing nature of crime, the increasing use of technology, and the growing importance of community-based crime prevention. It is important to continue to invest in law enforcement, to develop new technologies to combat crime, and to work with communities to prevent crime.

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.

Thursday, November 23, 2023

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.

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.

Day to Day events

Spring time

  The sun awakes in a sleepy stretch,  Yawning warmth on a winter's wretch.  Birdsong flutters on the breeze,  Waking trees from slumber...