From little oaks

Following on from the enormous success I had growing carrots ...

okay, they were short and misshapen but still a vast improvement on my previous forays into the gardening world i.e. they didn't die, I am trying again but this time I'm going BIG!

Yes, I'm growing an oak tree! (Now, you see, that photo looked in focus when I took it - and I was wearing my glasses.)

I couldn't tell if it was a shoot or a root growing - I thought it looked like a shoot but wasn't sure - so I planted it sideways in the hope it knows which way to go.

I shall keep you informed of its progress.

* * * * *

When we used to visit the in-laws when the children were young, Mother-in-law used to tell them it was lucky to catch a falling leaf in October. I don't believe in luck but I love the tradition of trying to catch a leaf. Have you ever tried? It's not as easy as you might think. The air you move as you run towards it propels it away from you.

Yesterday when we were in the country park with the grandchildren we had great fun tearing around until everyone had caught a leaf - except Granny. (I did manage eventually.)

But once hooked on the 'catch a leaf' thing catching one isn't enough. Today Husband and I were walking by the river. We stopped for a cuddle - as old married couples do - and over Husband's shoulder I could see trees shedding their leaves. 

'Keep saying the mantra,' I told myself. 'Ignore the leaves, ignore the leaves, ignore the ...' 

I pushed Husband aside and threw myself at a falling leaf.

I missed it.

But I did get a consolation prize on the way home. A leaf fell almost into my hands.