Through the eyes of the fence
In my small, quiet town in New Hampshire, we have a sweet preschool. Every time I frequent the Post Office, I see and hear the children’s voices in their play yard.
My grandchildren and I often walk over to the wooden slat fence and watch the children busy playing with dirt, trees, and forts. I love seeing those little faces peering through the openings to the outside world where I stand with my little ones who are peering right back through the fence.
Three of us are fenced out, and a dozen or so are fenced in. Both have their purposes and benefits. I once heard an interview about the importance of having boundaries for children. The guest discussed various studies that showed that children who know their boundaries feel more secure and are more likely to be creative in their play.
Boundaries do not necessarily mean fences, as teaching children that certain things are off-limits, unsafe, or not allowed teaches them to respect guidance with humility. Growing up, we had a post-and-rail fence separating our backyard from the forest that lay beyond. While we were little preschool children, we knew the fence was our boundary, but as we grew older, we began to explore the woods full of hardwood trees, and then, as we ventured further, we played in the pine forest.
It was so reassuring to return to the fence, thus in sight of the house and within reach of our mother’s voice after a long day's play. I look out over my yard today, and I have a stone wall that separates me from the forest above. The puppy loves running along the wall as if it provides security for its boundary. This many years later, I still feel safe and secure when I return from my forest walk and see the stone wall again: ahh..home.
What boundaries do you have or want to have on your property? Creating your boundaries will give you peace of mind, be it a stone wall, a picket fence, or wire mesh panels. A way to say, “This is my home, my orchard, my sheep pasture.”
Deer fencing is a great choice for gardens and orchards. Our deer fencing comes in different materials and finishes and in many sizes and heights. If you are looking for the simplest way to fence out deer, consider using Tenax plastic netting. It’s super easy to install and will last for years. Because it’s black, it practically disappears into the background, not blocking your view.
Warm regards,
Debbie Page
CEO, Louis E. Page Inc–Woman-owned business and Family-owned since 1893. (Without question, that is 131 years owned and run by our family!)
