It was Felix fourth birthday today, and what he wanted for his birthday more than anything, was a party. Both of my boys adore a good bash, and the more the merrier. Up to the point where Felix wanted to invite his father's business partners along.
Lovely guys, but not happening.
When I realised we would be having up to 20 children running amok in the garden today, in the back of my mind I was vaguely aware that there would have to be some collateral damage. And that there were Things I Wanted To Protect.
Foremost in my mind was the peanut plant, but it's way back in a boring corner, so I checked that off the list. The raised garden beds have proven in the past to be pretty unappealing to small children, so that was okay too. The side passage, well I was worried, I cannot tell a lie, but I was pretty sure nothing would happen that I couldn't cope with. So all was good.
Until I remembered the mulberry on the mulberry tree.
The fruit in our garden seems to ripen one at a time. And as the mulberry has exactly five mulberries on it, I was pretty aware of their individual ripeness statuses.
And I knew that one was almost ready. Almost, but not quite.
I had to make a tough call this morning fellow bloggers, one that I wouldn't wish upon any of you.
If I left the mulberry on the tree to ripen further, I ran a very real risk of losing my very first mulberry to small hands.
But if I ate it, I'd be losing out on an extra day or two of sweet, sweet ripening.
Who am I kidding. The choice was easy, since when have I ever shied away from picking things too early?
And the mulberry was delicious. A bit of red on them never hurt anyone.
Bring on the next four!
13 comments:
Oh dreaded children's parties at home! We've done one at home for both our boys for the past 7 years and last year I vowed was the last. Ten seven year olds boys dressed in star wars outfits (without the light sabers fortunately) just about did my head and garden in. I'm surprised that you've not retired to the couch with a strong drink for the next week after 20 four year olds!
Protect the mulberries at all costs I say, it's all for the greater good. :)
C'mon girls stop moaning...wait till they are teenagers and start sneaking in the booze! Congrats on the mulberry. I seem to remember you sneaking strawberries, Young Ali, when the boys weren't looking last year. It is becoming a habit. Happy Birthday, Felix!!!!
i agree with Kat couldnt say it any better(been there ate that)
Hey Hazel, all the best things are snuck in around here :D
Kat, I ate it to protect it. A worthy sacrifice.
Veggiegobbler, are you saying that perhaps I should think about inviting Luka's entire prep class for a party for his birthday? I'd really need to fortify hey.
LOL!
Brave decision. Correct choice!
Happy birthday, Felix! And happy sneaky eating, Ali! Go the next four mulberries!
Sometimes a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do :D
ohh it looks so tasty!! Good work Mum!
Good call - better under ripe than squashed
You will Really enjoy your tree next year! :-)
Ooo I knew you'd all understand that he had to be eaten in advance to be appreciated, what a brilliant bunch of bloggers you all are. If I ever get enough mulberries to make large quantities of jam, each and every one of you will receive one. Just remember I said that in ten years time :)
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