It's Been a Long Time Coming

[ursulas_alcove]

First, and probably foremost, I didn't get at the tree trimming because I had no healthcare at all. I went for 26 years or so without healthcare coverage.If you live in America, you'll understand. If not, I can't begin to explain how archaic our system is. Without healthcare, there was no way I was going to climb a ladder or a tree.

Second, I didn't have a ladder. Once a tree gets too tall, I couldn't trim it. Last year I broke down and bought a ladder when they were on sale. Previously, I owned a rickety wooden ladder that was really only meant to make it easier to change light bulbs. Being cash strapped has been a constant for me for many years. It started with the Bush (W) Administration. Recession hit us hard. Both my husband and I were laid off before 9/11 was even a word.

Third, a sharp object to cut with. All I had was a lopper. You can't cut 2" thick limbs with a lopper. I attempted to use a pole saw. It wasn't easy to use and got stuck in the tree for a year. Then I broke the blade. I lost the screw holding on the lopping attachment. It was a disaster. Then I bought a hand held blade but I still didn't have a ladder. The hand held blade took forever to cut even one limb.

Now I have a mini-chainsaw and a ladder. I shut the power off to the garage. I'm finally making progress. Wish I had a chipper/shredder but for now, I'm happy. There will be light in the garden and there will be less likelihood of contacting the power line, plus the tree will grow better. Win - win!

Comments

[haertstitch]

helps to tie a rope in the direction you want things to go

or tie the ladder to trea
but not where you walk

[ursulas_alcove]

It’s too high to tie anything. I can barely reach the base of the branches to cut them. Also, rope? Don’t got, at least not long enough and no one to pull on it or anywhere to tie it.

[rafqa]

I was on the third paragraph before I realized you weren't talking about decorating a Christmas tree.