The cats are simply not doing their job. The mouse is still in full residence, it has evaded every trap and has not succumbed to rat bait. It has woken us every night with it’s antics and is driving poor Brocky mad.

We seem to have solved the pukeko problem by covering the raised beds with bird netting.

I am also hoping that might keep out the cabbage whites who have been laying eggs all over the place.

On the plus side Simon has made a series of useful and attractive steps which means I no longer trip when navigating the deck between the house and the garage.

And a stunning sculptural support for the climber I have yet to get. Too many choices.

I am hoping it will also offer a bit of wind protection for those days when all the plants get battered about.