I've been out picking plums again for the Piopio Community Fruit & Veg Stand, this time with proper permission from two different people. It can be quite meditative, even when negotiating around and climbing through unpruned old narly plum branches. I probably shouldn't have worn my nice clothes on my first outing, but oh well. I probably shouldn't have worn my sandals either given all of the fruit on the ground! Stains on both clothes and feet did wash out.
It's amazing how the birds often get to the easily accessible ripe fruit. They have good taste. And they aren't terribly happy when someone comes along to take what they view as theirs. I try to have a dialogue, saying there's enough for everyone. With my second huge tree that certainly was the case but there were still quite a few squawks. Reinforcements were called in who tried to get to the fruit before I did.
I suspect people who see me out there with my telescoping fruit picker think I'm a nut, but that's okay. I'm a well intentioned nut, hopefully they can figure that one out. I went back for a second round on the second tree and managed to get enough for the stand, one of the local food banks, and the rest home.
I'm still working on tree #3 if the owner will let me have another crack. Her dog and I had a good chat in the backyard. We agree picking plums is good for the soul.
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