The Last of the Summertime Produce

This was what I call the last of the really, truly summertime produce that I got out of the garden. It may not look like much to someone else, but I was thrilled! One cantaloupe, and one banana pepper. The cantaloupe did not taste like much, but it sure was pretty! This gives me hope, and makes me consider the possibilities for next spring and summer. I'm already thinking about what we will plant.

More Pretty Fall Flowers

As the fall/winter weather continues to set in, I'm always appreciative to see a hint of color. I love to see the changing colors of the trees, as they start to shred their leaves - the red, orange, and gold colors. I also admire the flowers that survive, and even seem to thrive, as the weather gets colder (like the mums above). I still have summertime flowers that are getting their last dance, until they return in the spring.

(Orange Latana)

(Marigolds)

(Marigolds)

(Purple Latana)

(Orange Latana)

Pretty Fall Flowers

We have been enjoying a couple of days of really nice summertime weather (it has actually been in the 80's with sunshine). So, I guess we can't complain that wet weather will be returning later this evening, along with a cold front. Some people are plowing snow out of their driveways today, and would be happy to deal with a little cold rain.

As I looked around today, I tried to savor the delightful colors and sights of the various fall and late summer flowers still in the yard. Just in case they don't make it through the cold front coming, but I'm hoping they will persevere. Hang in there flowers! (Above, are some beautiful brazen orange mums I picked up for just $2. I think that's a pretty cheap spirit-lifter.)

(Yellow Latana)


(Purple Hardy Hibiscus)


(Bougainvilla)


(Jasmine Vine)

The Strong Keep Growing

Despite being drowned by rain showers, on three different occasions, it looks like our fall garden is resilient. It has taken a rain beating several times, but everything keeps on growing. In fact, the little greens look like they have grown at least a fourth of an inch overnight. We can't wait to have our first batch of fresh home-grown greens. We like to make broth-type soup out of the greens. There is nothing better to warm you up on a cold day, and it's very nutritious too.

Between the rain showers and a couple of days of warm weather we have been enjoying, several plants that would ordinary have died, are still going. The okra are still trying to grow, we are enjoying tomatoes off the vine, and the various peppers keep on producing. It's seems kind of strange, but the weather has been as confusing as ever. I suppose the plants are as confused as we are. We aren't complaining though.

Something Good from Something that Seemed SO Bad

The continual rainshowers seemed to forecast bad news for our planting efforts. But we have been pleasantly surprised to see that the transplants and bulbs we planted appear to be holding their own. The cabbage, for example, is thriving and getting bigger each day. Time will tell, but for now there is hope for sure.

Another very appreciated surprise has been how the flowers have enjoyed the showers. The roses especially have delighted in the rain. We never get enough of roses around here.