Let’s demystify the techniques for bulb planting
Brighten up your spring by planning ahead in the fall. Planting bulbs might seem like a chore, but let me tell you—the pay-off is worth every bit of effort. Daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths, oh my! These are bulb plants, and they have a secret: they are experts at being patient. Planted in the fall, they wait out the winter, conserving their energy until the first signs of spring, when they burst into bloom. Bulb planting is not rocket science, it’s more like a nature-backed savings account — a pay-it-forward kind of garden investment.
Larry’s One-Trip Move: Purchase a bulb planter tool. This simple gadget removes a plug of soil at the perfect depth for your bulb. Just drop the bulb in, cover, and repeat. Efficiency at its finest!
Making a mess with paint? This is your solution
Today, we’re talking paint and, more specifically, how to keep it where you want it. You know how it goes… you pour some paint into a tray, dip your roller in, and then — splatters and drips everywhere. Here’s a DIY tool hack that will save your floor, your sanity, and maybe even your marriage.
Larry’s One-Trip Move: Get an extra-absorbent sponge and cut it to fit snugly inside your paint tray. Soak it in water and squeeze out any excess. The sponge will absorb the excess paint from the roller, reducing drips and giving you smoother walls.
Transform your backyard into a cozy retreat
Imagine this. It’s an evening in early autumn. The air is crisp, the stars are bright, and you’re sitting outdoors, bright sparks from the fire dancing up into the night sky. There’s something fundamentally human about having a fire pit in your backyard. It’s a focal point, a gathering place, somewhere to roast marshmallows and tell ghost stories, or just enjoy the night. A fire pit is an investment in memories — it draws people together like moths to a soothing flame.
Larry’s One-Trip Move: If installing a fire pit, make sure it’s at least 10 feet away from any structure or neighboring yards. Safety first, folks!
Save energy and stay comfortable as winter approaches
As we tiptoe into the colder months, it’s time to take a peek up in the attic. Why? Insulation, my friends. Good insulation in your attic can determine whether your winter will be bone-chilling or cozy. Keeping warm air in and cold air out in the winter is the key to a happy home. Plus, it’s not just about comfort. Proper insulation can also save you a bundle by reducing energy costs.
Larry’s One-Trip Move: Take a peek at your insulation — if the attic floor joists are visible, you likely need more insulation. Also, remember to use the right R-value for your region.
Our community garden becomes a gathering spot
In the true spirit of harvest season, our neighborhood hosted its annual ‘Garden Swap.’ It’s a less official, more fun version of a farmer’s market. Throw in couples arguing over the ideal ripeness of a pear, kids snacking on raw vegetables, and plenty of laughs, and there you have it — the green-thumbed community in all its glory, sharing the labor of love that is homegrown produce. This little ritual always reminds me of the power of community, the joy of sharing, and the bounty of Mother Nature.
Larry’s One-Trip Move: For next year, grow an extra row of vegetables specifically to share with your community. It’s good for the soul…and the taste buds!
I once heard, ‘A gardener is a painter who uses plants for paint and soil for their canvas’. This made me chuckle. You see, I am no Monet when it comes to painting, but in the garden, I can create my masterpiece, one tulip bulb at a time.
“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” — Larry