As for full time job, yeah it takes a bit but we have good systems. Because we are high energy people we can get a massive amount done in a morning of a weekend when things need digging, weeding, pulling out, pruning. But we made a pact that we garden for half an hour every day at least four days a week. That actually keeps the time you garden down, believe it or not. It's a pleasure to walk round, water, snip a branch or two, pick a few weeds, plant seeds, turn the compost - and that way it doesn't build up so massively. This year Jamie's promised to help more which makes it easier.
Was thinking of downsizing but I really have realized that I've always loved a garden and cannot imagine not tending one. It'd be interesting doing it on a suburban block I guess - mini small holdings are a thing after all - but whilst I'm fit enough I may as well keep it up.
Very suburban here. I too have tried the 10-15 mins a day routine, but with the oppressive heat (and choosing to go to gym in the evening, I am confronted with weeds and grass regrowth that is just too challenging or intimidating to chop down in one go.)
I can't wait for winter.