Friday, June 21, 2013

June 2013 Garden Update

This summer, my gardening is limited to herbs and flowers.  I decided not to try to grow vegetables this year because we really have too much shade and after last year's drought, I lost the desire as well!  Plus, as I said before, my plant budget was eaten up by a certain hungry rescue cat.  So, this is what we came up with for about $30.

These Coleus perk up the shaded front walk.


I have written  many times about my grandpa's geranium, but here it is again.   I hope it makes it this summer.  I noticed a bug eating the leaves.

I bought two little pots of geraniums for the back deck.  I enjoy looking out my windows and seeing a little pop of color.  I was hoping to attract humming birds, as I have in the past, but sadly, the hummers are not coming like the last few years.


These lilies were a gift from my daughter last year.  They and the mint are thriving.  Next to the mint, in the back, you can just see the chives.  There is also lavender and basil in this area.

 In the baby pool, I planted some free Morning Glory seeds.  I will put up a tripod soon.  There is also cilantro in the pool.

 Lastly, here is the catnip that we got from the farm market.  It is loving its location.  And my kitties are loving the fresh leaves.  We will dry some for over the winter.

I would have loved to have planted some tomatoes, but these plants are truly enough.  My daughter is so kind to water each plant every morning, unless we have had rain.

Monday, June 17, 2013

Summer Thoughts


Summer is in full bloom.  We've not yet entered the dry season and we've only had one day reach 90 degrees. My plants are doing well, although, I did not plant as much as last year.  That is OK.  I chose to spend my money on adding another rescue cat in March and he is worth it. 

That's how life goes on a budget.  I took from my garden budget so that I could increase my cat budget.  I still have lovely plants to enjoy.  And I have an extra wonderful cat to love. 



I really, really need to work on clearing out the extra stuff in our home this summer.  In particular, the garage is out of control.  I just don't like spending time out there.  I need a plan and a schedule, but books call to me during the heat of the day, not a hot garage.


I am so thankful to have the luxury of summer days at home.  They are a real gift.  I have my children happily busy around me.  My husband is working hard so that we can be comfortable and enjoy all the blessings that surround us.   Life is full.  I am grateful to the Lord for the pleasure a quiet summer day brings.  

Tuesday, June 4, 2013

A Letter to My Stuff

Dear Stuff I Want Rid Of,

You were once a blessing to me. I know I really wanted you here, but now things have changed. I no longer have a use for you inside my home. So now you sit in my garage, mocking me each time I pass you. I keep you because of fear or out of sentiment.   If I get rid of you, I may need you again, just like a few other things I once had. And, technically,  I do have the space to keep you, so I talk myself out of calling a charity truck to come by. I avoid you when I am able. And, the good stuff hides you.  One day I will have to deal with you, when we move again. Until then, I will try to find courage to say goodbye!

Yours truly,
Jenn

Monday, June 3, 2013

Ten More Things



  • Time spent rocking in the sun on my hammock.  
  • Good family times over the weekend.  
  • Friends who want to come over and BBQ.  
  • A foster kitty to love on.  
  • Sons who spontaneously go outside to work on their physical training.
  • BBQ leftovers!  
  • Birds singing outside my window.
  • Lower humidity.  
  • Dry weather in order to hang my blankets outside, again.  
  • Physical strength to go play disc golf.