I passed by a conker tree this evening which was completely covered in conkers. Reminded me of my youth, going off in search of the best conkers, finding an old shoe lace then trying to bash your mate's conker to pieces. One of the joys of Autumn.
Loads of old stories about how to make your conker harder, nail polish, baking etc... I did read somewhere the elf n' safety police wanted to ban children playing conkers... too dangerous apparently..
I think it's a British thing playing conkers so apologies if I'm confusing anyone out there. Conker trees = horse chestnut trees. Here's a bit more info if you're interested http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conkers
Decided to turn this pic b&w, I like the fact in b&w it's not immediately clear what it is...
No work until Thursday so another ultra lazy day, up late, bit of day-time TV then a swim and sauna in the evening. Got home and my brother called to say my Dad had a minor stroke today and was in hospital. He had a big one 18 months ago and had been complaining of a headache for a few days. Hopefully he'll be home soon.
In CA we have Liquid Amber pods that look a bit like this, but I've never heard of kids "playing" with them as you suggest. Goodness! the things one can learn on this site! Nice photo, Andy, and an interesting caption!
I never realized that's what a chestnut looks like in it's native state. Did you read "Friends Like These" by Danny Wallace? Funny bit about conkers in there. Hope your dad is well again soon.
OMG, sorry about your dad. Hope all on the improve. I have 2 chestnnut trees which I purchased for their flowers, not that they have yet, but I did not know that they were the conker tree.
I put up conkers today and wondered if non UKers would understand so I'm pleased you did a link!! Sorry about your dad....parents are such a worry! Tables are turned as we get older!
August 6th, 2010
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So sorry about your dad, I hope he gets well soon.
But, I hope your dad gets better soon!
Sorry to hear about your dad.
It looks a little like a macro of mold or something spore-ish!
I remember doing the same thing as a kid. I remember soaking them in vinegar to stop them cracking.