Summer Series: August harvest, fairy gardens, and cream puffs
a compilation of current thoughts and simple pleasures
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Hi friends! It’s been a minute. I’ve missed coming to this space for my regular check-ins and sharing the happenings.
Summer set in and, as quickly as it came, it’s already on its way out. Just like that it’s back-to-school season and it’s theoretically over. I don’t know about you, but it’s sending me into a bit of a tailspin.
But before we throw in the towel and shift our focus onto fall, there’s still so much summer left to celebrate.
We’ve reached the point in the season when the garden is overflowing with abundance. We’re harvesting cucumbers and tomatoes off the vines daily, and herbs are big and bushy. (By the looks of my harvest basket, I think I need to read up on drying and storing herbs).
Other signs that summer is still in full swing:
The hum of cicadas in the evening air.
Warm, sunny days.
Backyard hangouts.
Fresh fruits and veggies.
Flower baskets overflowing.
Later sunsets.
It still feels like summer (and technically it is until Sept 23), so let’s squeeze the last bits of enjoyment out of it before we dive back into our schedules, to-dos, and cool weather gear. There will be plenty of time for all of that…and then it will be Christmas! Just kidding, but not really.
Here’s to deep summer days! How are you enjoying them?
Thoughts I’m leaning into lately:
Looking at my summer wish list and making time for the things we haven’t done.
Happiness is not the absence of emotional discomfort. As humans, we are meant to feel a full spectrum of emotions, not suppress them.
Thinking about moments when it comes down to my anxiety vs. ease. Loosening the grip and letting go of control can often make life easier. (Although it can be easier said than done).
Curious about cycle syncing and how diet, exercise, and lifestyle habits coincide with hormonal shifts. If you’re curious too, you can start by listening to this podcast episode. It made a lot of sense to me.
Rather than a right way, there are many good enough ways.
If I do nothing else in a day, at a minimum I will go for a walk outside. It’s a form of medicine.
Did you know the month of August has 2 full moons?! The Wine Moon on Aug 1 and Blue Moon on Aug 30.
Giving decaf coffee a try to keep my caffeine intake manageable. I enjoy the taste of coffee that much.
Do you have a lifestyle topic you’re interested in reading about this fall/winter? Submit content suggestions here.
Simple Pleasures:
Pollinators. Witnessing butterflies and bees do their thang is magical. I was able to capture these little guys up close and personal, and I’m amazed at how intricate their work is. Does anyone know what type of butterfly this is?
Puppuccino aka Pup Cup. Is there anything cuter than a doggie enjoying a pup cup? You don’t even have to be a dog lover to feel the “awww”. Our dog Rosie doesn’t get them often, maybe once a year when the moment is right, so it always feels special when it happens. It was one of those evenings when our nightly walk around the neighborhood led us to the local coffee establishment that whips them up. As you can see, she loved it! Good girl, Rosie!
God Sightings. Every summer I volunteer at my church’s Vacation Bible School (VBS) camp, and it’s such a rewarding experience. This year the theme was Stellar and the church sanctuary was transformed into an outer space scene. Throughout the week we discovered ways to “Shine Jesus’ Light”, especially in times when life feels dark. Children in preschool through 5th grade participate in the camp activities that include games, crafts, Bible adventures, singing and dancing.
Throughout the week we were encouraged to watch for “God sightings” and note them on little stars to post on a wall. A God sighting can be anything where you feel God at work. For me, one of the many God sightings in my life is seeing the children come together every year to build friendships, learn about Jesus, and strengthen their faith.
Fairy Gardens. Sometimes a walk around the block can feel ordinary. And other times, you stumble upon a sweet little fairy garden built under a tree. A tiny abode equipped with a trailer and a tea table. It’s almost tempting to hang around and wait for the magical residents to show up.
Cream Puffs. A family tradition of ours is to visit the Wisconsin State Fair in August. I have memories of going to the fair when I was just a little girl…so long ago my dad was still alive (he passed when I was 9). We would see the farm animals up close, listen to live music, eat cheese curds, shop the giant bazaar and most importantly THE CREAM PUFFS. These are a must. The cream is so rich and they’re the size of your fist. They were my dad’s favorite and the highlight of our visit every year. Y U M.
What are some of your simple pleasures this season?
My Favorites
Devotions by Mary Oliver - I just love her poems.
Listening to The Lazy Genius episode #324 How to Make the Rest of the Summer Easier.
My new favorite product for smoothing the bumpy skin on my arms is this Osea Cleansing Body Polish. It smells amazing! Thanks for the rec Kate :)
Wearing these pajamas and feeling cozy AF.
I don’t think I’ve ever purchased lipstick in my life until now.
Being a “good enough” parent is actually good for our children. Have a listen to Denaye’s #momfails flipped.
Eating Greek salads on repeat. Kale, chickpeas, red onion, feta, cucumber, tomato, grilled chicken and homemade Greek dressing.
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- Diana xo
It’s the God sightings & fairy gardens for me! Love you 🤍