One thing I noticed being away from Texas is the smell of English Dirt. Yes, the stuff on the ground under the grass.
Now this may seem like a strange thing to notice but I did notice it the other morning as I passed a gardener tending a flowerbed by the flat. As I walked by the flowerbed, the unique smell of turned-over earth caught my attention.
Now it’s a smell not unique to England. As a child, I spent some time in the Northern part of the States (Wisconsin) and as normal kids do, I spent a considerable amount of time digging in the dirt, playing with toy trucks, burying Mom’s silverware, etc.
Now in Texas, especially in the Southeastern part of the State, the dirt there is not so much dirt as it is sandy clay. Some dirt-like qualities are introduced by bits of trees and vegetation that dies and eventually crumbles into the mix but for the most part it is a generally sticky mess. Anyone who doubts this can try running through the “mud” next to any riverbank in Livingston, TX. I can guarantee you that it’s sticky enough to pull your boots off in the process.
The other very striking aspect of the dirt in SE Texas is the gassy, oily scent that comes with clay sand with dead vegetation mixed in. It’s not a horrible thing but anyone who lived through house reconstruction after Houston’s recent flooding can attest to the unique smell of Texas dirt in the house.
Now this Northern stuff, by conrast, is almost aromatic. Certainly took me by surprise and back a few years to my childhood.
I can see why the English enjoy gardening so much. I may take it up as well while I’m here.
At least it would give me an excuse to play in the dirt with my toys.