Gardeners' World Live
I've literally just got home from the NEC where I've been for the duration of Gardeners' World Live. I am absolutely shattered! I filmed for two days for the programme and then gave talks and master classes for a further three days, floating between the main celebrity theatre, the 'grow your own' stage and the small stage on the 'Taste of Greenacre' garden. It's a big venue with all the show gardens and a floral marquee so my legs are now thoroughly aching. In all it was a huge success.
On the whole the weather was fabulous and everyone I asked said they were having a great time. I've never known everyone to be so jolly and upbeat at a show. It got me thinking that during hard times gardening is a wonderful activity to see you through; it's full of sharing and communicating and I've no doubt that plenty of gardening and growing leads to a general all round feel - good factor. It's not about throwing loads of money around but about engaging in and enjoying the process.
It was wonderful to see loads of youngsters there too who were so proud of their photos of their allotments, gardens and containers. Every time I started to tire I'd throw it to the audience for questions and many of them came from the kids, which in truth helped to re-energise me and keep me going. Their enthusiasm was overwhelming and I just know most of them will garden throughout their lives. The only down side of the week was losing the 30 minute fix to Toby. I have to say his low maintenance window box did look pretty good (nearly as good as mine), but I'm worried it's gone to his head and we'll never hear the end of it!
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