Seven visits planned for today but already had one postponed first thing. First up *Ailana and *Makamae, who came through Kesi and live almost opposite each other. Both have quite a bit growing wild and untended, which is a great way to garden in my opinion. At this point mostly taro and kūmara, from which they harvest leaves.
Both these women have English as a second language and don’t have phones, which provides some challenges for my work. We managed with Kesi translating and I won’t be texting or chatting with them any time soon. After some translation Kesi said they wanted to know how old I was, and when I replied 64 and how old were they, they were quick to tell me they were 75 and 78. I wondered later if this could be to make it clear to me that they were older than me, so probably knew more than me. Hahaha! To be honest these ladies are gardeners already, but maybe we are introducing new foods, spinach, bok choi and lettuce etc which is also great. I will endeavour to talk about food waste and fridge bags when I go to plant, but wish me luck with that.
Kirsty was slipped in next and what a lovely buzz as she lifted me out of the perplexing thoughts of speaking Tongan. We planted and chatted about everything and I think we may be friends for life! I am going to enjoy regular chats with her. I had to rush this visit as was due at Carla’s next.
Carla was late…so I had a lovely time with Tom, her Dad while we waited. Turned out he was the one I needed to talk to! Where he plans to put the hen run needs tidying and some fencing installed, which he says is no problem. Where he plans to put the veggie garden has a huge pile of reclaimed wood at present, which is to be moved. Awesome busy people.
Three postponed, so out of seven booked, I visited four. I’m fast learning this is the nature of this beast called ‘community’ and I’m enjoying the new challenges they provide.
*Some names have been changed to protect participants privacy.
Rākau Tautoko 