At last.... Fall is Here

Fall is my favorite time of the year.  The air is crisp, the sun is warm and the evenings are cool.

 I get to wear layers, which is flattering to my middle aged body, and also a fashion statement!

In a couple of weeks, we'll be going up to the Blue Ridge mountains, to enjoy the colors.  They are always so stunning, especially if it is a sunny day with some clouds.

This is also one of my favorite times in the garden.
I change my flower planters, because we are lucky enough to live in a mild climate and be able to enjoy flowers all year.  I'll be putting in some hostas, cabbages, johnny jump-ups and pansies.  I'll also put in some other greens to add texture.  The baskets in this picture are a perfect example of how interesting foilage can be when there is a contrast.

Then, there is starting that first fire in the fireplace.  Love, love the smell of oak logs burning.  The crackle and flickering light is so romantic on any evening, but especially the first of the season.

What are your favorite things about fall?





Enjoying the little joys!

Are you a planner and organizer?  When I was young, I had my life all planned out.  Thinking about it with the wisdom that age has given me, all I can say is why bother?  Life is what happens when you are not looking

                                                            

Don't get me wrong, I still think we should have a plan, be prepared and all of the other things I espoused as a den mother.  But, I also believe that if we don't take time to enjoy the little joys that come along on a daily basis, we will miss a great deal.

Every morning I take my coffee out to the garden, and stroll through.  I feed my goldfish, put fresh water in the birdbaths, & water the flower containers.  I love to hear the birds waking up, and feel the cool breezes before it gets too hot.

That is when I noticed this lovely little mushroom, pushing it's way up through the center of an old stump.  With the sunlight it looked sculptural to me.  Three days later, with the heat we've had, it shriveled and disappeared!

I enjoy the unplanned surprises that life offers.  It is how we meet interesting people, see new things, and learn.  Don't be in such a hurry.  Enjoy your summer, and just let some things be.  You will find yourself much more relaxed and open to the universe.

I Remember Mama

The other night I watched the old movie, "I remember Mama" and I couldn't help but think of all the things my mother has done for me in my life time.

First she 'labored' to have me, missed many hours of sleep to make sure I was clean, fed and happy.

She taught me to walk & talk, read & write, ride a bike and drive a car.  She talked to me about boys, and marriage.  She has shared her love of gardening with me and inspired me in countless ways throughout my life.

I's just like to say a great big thank you to my mother and all of the others out there!