Shiny Shovel Show!

 Groundbreaking ceremonies are a hoot. New shiny shovels, and not a person who intends to work with them. WSIL TV3 posted this photo on their website of the ceremony for the new police station in Mt. Vernon, IL. Shovel Man #11 should have checked his equipment!

Kids, on the other hand are eager to work with a shovel if someone will just show them what they need to do. Kids will get down on their knees to break up soil, fit a hole to the tree, fill it in, and punch down that soil nice and firm. They practically fight over the chance to get their hands dirty and do a job. I have shown many an adult how to plant a potted tree, and few want to get their knees dirty. Keep that youthful enthusiasm if you still have a bit of it. Back To The Old Grind!

My planting tools aren't too shiny, but their patina comes from honest work and an occasional rubdown with linseed oil.