Last week, at some time beyond my ability to recall (I think, Wednesday?), I planted two more trees around the foundation. An American fringe tree and a downy serviceberry, both are native trees that provide food and habitat for birds and both will remain relatively small. They are placed to cast summer shade on the air conditioner to help reduce cooling costs. They are deciduous, so they won't interfere with the winter sun adding a degree or two to the air around the unit – which reduces heating costs.
Last Saturday, Justin and I started on his room. We discovered that ripping up pressboard flooring held in place by airgunned nails every two inches (most of which come to a stop just under the surface of the board) is fairly time consuming work. Also discovered that we could use another rubber mallet, as that, in combination with your prybar of choice, is the most often used tool. Justin impressed me once more – I nearly had to use one of those prybars to get him to step back from his work for the occassional breather. I get the impression that he wants to get the room done, although I am happier that our speed (or lack thereof) is the issue now, and that it doesn't come down to waiting for the budget to allow the next step (which it will, sooner or later.)
Earlier in the day, Justin and I went to the Lehigh Gap, to join the
Wildlife Information Center in clearing out invasive plants. We tackled a few Japanese barberries, but quickly became specialists in butterfly bush removal. It was raining on our way there, slowed down when we went to work, and opened up again when we took a break.
Last Sunday, our neighbors put their house up for sale – thought they were throwing a party, until I saw the "Open House" sign. I was a little quicker in spotting the raptor – although the type remains unidentified – sparring with the crow. It was an aerial dogfight, which, unfortunately, ended when I ran inside to grab binoculars and camera.
In other recent news, which isn't mine and isn't unreported, three campers from Philly ran into one of the neighborhood bears (or their close friends) in a state park nearby. As a reminder, tie up your food out of bear-reach when you go camping (and remember – they are taller than you and can climb trees, so don't hang it low or close to the trunk!) Also, if you happen to bump into one up close and personal, treat it as you should an unknown, aggressive dog. Talk quietly, don't flash teeth, back away slowly. Here's to hoping I never have to see if I remember that advice.
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