The four huge spruce trees at the front of our cottage offer plenty of welcome privacy, but they do overshadow the growing field somewhat, so we decided to take down the largest of them and see what a difference it makes. Lots, turns out to be the answer, and we might get away with only taking down the one tree. Now the sun gets onto the field far earlier in the day, and at this time of year when it is low in the sky, every little helps.

Plus of course, we have some very welcome firewood for next winter. Tree surgeon Chris McDowell did a great job taking the 60 year old tree down in sections, and now we have the task of cutting and splitting it. At the same time we had the big sycamore beside the house carefully pruned as it’s well within striking distance of the cottage, and we’re not taking any chances.