Mr. Snuffleupagus Gets a Haircut

The exterior of The 8 Cow House is really starting to take shape.  Power washing happened yesterday and it already looks like a new house.  You can actually see there is a house.  It's been "hiding".  

Other than the actual exterior of the house itself, the yard needs a lot of help.  I am not a green thumber, so the actual vegetation is something I know will take some time - like in years - to get to a good place. However, there was one particular plant I could not wait to get my hands on.  My mother was here last week and she and I tackled that beast and I'm proud to say it's on its way to actually being and looking like it should.

I give you "Mr. Snuffleupagus" on the day we purchased the house.....

By far one of the biggest Japanese Maples I've seen.  What to do with Mr. Snuffy has been a matter of debate from everyone who has come over.  Many think I should rip him out,  others think I should keep him, I am undecided.  A lesson I am taking from our first home ownership is, "Never rip something out until you know what you are going to replace it with."  If you prematurely take something out you are bound for trouble - as in weed trouble.  Snuffy needs help, but at least he's a purposeful plant.

For now, he's staying.  But if you wasn't in need of a "haircut" before spring hit, he definitely was in need of one after......

Can you see where the name comes from?  My goodness!!

Well my mom and I (mostly my mom) hacked away at him for the good part of an afternoon and this is what he has become.....

Mr. Miyagi would be proud!!  Much more Bonsai!! And a lot less Sesame Street.  I think even Snuffy likes the change.  What do you think?