Summer is in full swing at our house. My table is covered with newspaper and apricots. Which means that the first of my week will be spent making jam and other baked yummies. It is also the time of year when the sandplum starts to ripen. If you have never had sandplum jelly you are missing out on a grand treat. Usually these little critters are found along the roadside while taking a drive through the Oklahoma country side. Although I will admit that I have a few hidey holes that I know of where they reside in the middle of a field. None the less, they are a wild bush that one usually does not plant themselves. It is my intent also this week to get a good mess of these little goodies and put up some much coveted jelly.
I haven’t even begun to talk about the peaches, which are also starting to show their pretty little faces in the farmer’s markets. Usually though I try to go to a self pick orchard as the prices are a bit more reasonable. Needless to say I will have a busy week ahead of me.
Last week my mother and sister were visiting so many of my routine activities were put on the sidelines as I enjoyed the time with family. My grandkids will also be visiting in a few weeks so I have to attempt to get as much as I can done in the time at hand.
The days have been hideously hot and humid here this last week and look to continue through this week. Last week an abundant rain came at the beginning of the week, dumping up to 14 inches in some places just north of us. We managed to get 3 inches which we greatly appreciated as it gave a nice long drink of water to our pond and also to my flowers which lie outside the area of my ability to water. It also helped the grass to awaken and start to grow which means more mowing. It seems there is always something to do in the yard. I have been taking my early mornings to water and do any gardening that may need tending. The humidity has left its calling card each morning by placing a heavy dew on the grass which I have to say the mosquitoes love to play in. Yet it has been nice to be able to greet the sun each morning as it starts its climb into the sky. The quiet and peacefulness of morning is one of my most cherished times of day.
July 16th marks my one year anniversary and I am in the process of putting together some goodies to give away to all of you who have been with me throughout this time and also to the new ones who will come. I am hoping to post the details and the beginning of my list of goodies in the next couple days. I have so enjoyed getting to know so many of you and thank you so much for sharing in this journey with me.
Speaking of giveaways, last week I received a wonderful surprise in the mail from a recent giveaway I had the pleasure to win. Faerwillow over at Serendipity send me a wonderful package of goodies. I received fairy note cards, sea shells, a beautiful rock shaped like a heart, a wonderful treat from her children and so much more. She is a wonderful caring person whom has blessed me in so many ways. I urge you if you have not visited her site, you should take a stroll on over and see. I can assure you that you will likewise receive a wonderful treat.
The apricots are calling, I best end this and begin my work. Take care and enjoy your day. Many blessings to all of you
