The dogs and the chickens keep going into the little flower bed along the side of the house. Between them, I don't know how the flowers have survived.
I finally decided enough was enough, and wove this little fence. I only have one side done so far, so it doesn't keep much out yet.
It is made of willow branches, from my brother's secret stand of willows. They grow like weeds along the lake, and every few years the city comes and cuts them down. My brother knew a spot that they missed, and helped cut a couple of bundles for me.
Now when I go outside, I am struck by the smell of willow branches, and am transported back 35 years or so. As kids, we would spend hours along the shoreline, playing hide and seek in the willows, bending the long branches and lashing them together with smaller willow whips, making forts out of them. Old Mr. Finney would stand up on the bank, watching us with a faint frown of disapproval. We just ignored him.
*No turkeys were injured in the making of this fence.
6 comments:
I love your woven fence- how much more character and beauty than a pre-made one.
I love your fence! I have considered making things like a fence and some furniture out of willow but just have not had time to seriouisly consider it. Now I might.
I want to plant a few willow branches this year.
Its wonderfully rustic and natural looking!
I've always loved the look of wattle fences. Instantly brings to mind sunbonnets and long skirts brushing the ground.
I read once that our sense of smell brings back memories more poignantly than any other sense so I can understand where you're coming from there.
Sometimes those willow branches will actually take root and grow.
I have had it happen more than once..8o)
~GAM
very cool looking, I like how it blends in... I have an area of fence that fell down and you have inspired to try something less boring.
Is that what wattle means? I've read about "daub and wattle" house construction, in the Buddha's time.
And yes to the previous comment! I've seen live willow fences in northern India - the vertically planted bits live and leave, fleshing out the fence.
Another beautiful detail of your life - thanks!
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