Waddle, Wattle, Twaddle

October 18, 2024 Debbie Page

An outdoor scene featuring a woven wattle fence made of flexible branches surrounding a small gardenWaddle, Wattle, Twaddle

Yesterday, a subscriber wishing to unsubscribe from our list referred to the emails as drivel, though he misspelled it as drivl. What does drivel mean? Nonsense, twaddle, claptrap, balderdash, gibberish, and so on. Those words are hilariously fun! I’m so happy and grateful for his email! It’s given me laughs and fodder.

Interestingly, he made himself known instead of hitting the “Unsubscribe button.” So, if any of you want to unsubscribe from these emails, please waddle over to do so. We intend these emails for those who desire them. I think we’ve made it simple to do so. If not, let me know at debbie@louispage.com. Or if you want to voice any opinion about the emails, write away! We aim to please.

Wattles

Wattles have become more prominent along the roads and highways in recent years. I’m reading a Scottish novel that uses the word wattle, which sparked my curiosity about its true meaning. Upon looking it up, I discovered the following definition:

Wattle is made by weaving flexible branches around an upright stake to form a woven lattice. The wattle may be made into an individual panel or formed into a continuous fence. Wikipedia

In England, Scotland, and Ireland, fence-type wattles are prominent. They make a lovely barrier for gardens and effectively keep wind and animals out.

Good morrow, fair ones: pray you, if you know,
Where in the purlieus of this forest stands
A sheep-cot fenc’d about with olive trees?

As You Like It, IV 3

We don’t carry wattle-type fencing, so you must make your own. And when you do, please share photos with me.

The wattles I’m talking about along the highways are placed on the ground and used for erosion. Typically, they are long, skinny burlap bags of straw that look like sausages. They catch the sediment and slow down the flow of water.

Waddle

Waddle your way through Louis Page’s catalog to see the various types of fencing we offer. If you don't find what you want, call Terry, our fence expert, at 978-486-3116. Click to call

Make it fun if you are interested in waddle, wattle, or twaddle. Take delight in your projects. We are the creators of life! Isn’t that grand? And take pleasure in words. There are so many meanings, so why not enjoy them?

And perhaps one man’s drivel is another man’s delight.

Warmest regards,

Debbie Page

CEO, Louis E. Page Inc–Woman-owned business and Family-owned since 1893. (So 131 years ago our family ancestor Louis E. founded the company)

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