The Carrot Tops Allotment Blog!

Generally speaking I’m all for New Years resolutions – it’s a really good way to take a step back and think about ways to improve one’s self and it’s always good to remember last year’s resolutions and see if you have achieved them. Last year, I sat in the same position that I am in now and said – “I’m going to read more! I spend too much time on my phone and that has to stop.” Have I achieved this? No.

I don’t know why I haven’t achieved such a feet – perhaps it’s a sign of a deeper social media addiction? I’ll be the first to admit that I spend way too much time on my phone. Do I add last year’s failure to this year’s resolution? No, I’ve done this two times before now and it doesn’t make any difference. Instead I’m going to go with a whole new set of resolutions.

Getting fit and losing weight are all things that kind of go without saying in this day and age, so I’ll be doing these as well. If we’re truly honest, we all feel a little bit on the porky side straight after the festive season, so cutting back won’t do any harm I’m sure.

OK, so new year’s resolutions… Here we go!

Use my local butchers and green grocers

This is something I’ve been meaning to do for a while now. Sadly, I can’t remember the last time a butchers or a green grocer opened up near where I live, which isn’t a good sign for your local (often, family) retailers. The reason why I want to use my local butchers and green grocers, is to a. support my local community b. try and source a better quality product and c. to open my eyes up to new culinary horizons. The last one sounds so weird when you read it out loud, but I am of the generation who visits the supermarket for the things that he needs. It get’s boring after a while and the choice you’re presented with hasn’t changed that much in my life time. The thought of conversing with a local shop keeper excites me a bit! I’ve also frequented the meat counter in my local supermarket and I’ve been a bit disappointed. Shop local.

Get to the allotment earlier in the morning(s)

OK, I do enjoy a lazy Sunday or Saturday as much as the next person – but as good lazy Sundays and Saturdays sound, they’re not very productive when you have an allotment. The theory behind this is that I can leave at the same time and keep my weekend routine, but an extra hour here or there will allow me to get much more done. Get up earlier.

Try and eradicate single use plastics from my life

Single use plastic is the buzzword of today and if I can’t help but feel that the amount of plastic waste that get dumped into the sea is criminal – I am as guilty as the next person when it comes to using plastic so it’s time to change. No more plastics for me unless it’s biodegradable or can be easily recycled. Waste less.

Improve my grammar

If you’re an avid reader, this will be of no surprise. But… Ironically – reading more would help with this. Comment all of the mistakes in this post below and posts in the future please – a bit of humiliation will help with this particular resolution! OK I guess I’ll try again when it comes to reading more…

Don’t be afraid to build structure for crops

I’m really lazy when it comes to protecting my brassicas and other plants that get attacked by pests. I often lack the confidence when it comes to building frames and leave everything to the elements. As a result this year I lost a crop of broccoli and cauliflower to pigeons, butterflies and other hungry pests all because I simply didn’t bother. Must be bothered.

For bonus points – Try and drink less

I do love a pint, I’m not going to lie. However, the combination of a lack of exercise and the approach to 30 means my metabolism is slowly dwindling to nothing. I’ve got a two year headstart on trying to rebuild my metabolism so I must make the most of it. Drink less.

So there we have it… Keep your fingers crossed for me and let’s see how I get on. If you have any resolutions I’d love to know what they are. Or, if you don’t believe in new year’s resolutions I’d love to know why 🙂 .