At the End of June

The year is marching on. It's only a few weeks until summer break and the end of Lily's first year in secondary school. It feels like no time at all since we were preparing for the big transition, yet here we are already twelve months on, and wondering what all the big fuss was about. Some things don't change, however, as I've been busy ordering new shirts and trousers in readiness for the autumn term. 

This week, I've been finding comfort in the ordinariness of my days. Weekend plans were cancelled at short notice and, although disappointed, I found myself relishing the lack of time constraints, and of the need to be organised. Monday to Friday it often feels like every single minute is accounted for, so when these opportunities arise, I embrace them, as I realise they are few and far between.

The weather has been fairly mixed here, and the warm summer rain has kept the garden well watered, so I don't have to. I think the flowers are looking at their best just now. In just a few more weeks, they will begin to lose their colour, and look a little worse for wear. In the raised bed, I'm  keeping a close eye on the beetroot and carrots, but the spring onions are being used regularly, most recently in this evening's stir fry. Unfortunately, the lemon trees still haven't produced any flowers, so I'll just have to remain hopeful for another year. They are, at least looking strong and healthy. 

Another garden I've also enjoyed recently, was at Sizergh Castle, and it's looking incredibly beautiful just now. To our delight, the Lily Pads appear to have taken over the pond, and we enjoyed watching the damselflies and dragonflies hovering just above them.

And of course, for my very own Lily, no visit to Sizergh would be complete without seeing Charlie. 

Also, this week, I'm excited to have begun work on a new crochet project. It's something I've had in mind for a while now, and just another small part of trying to reintroduce some colour into my life. I'll share more soon.

J. X