July has a way of slipping through our fingers, doesn’t it?
One minute we’re celebrating the Fourth of July, and the next we’re wondering how August managed to sneak up on us. Summer always seems to pick up speed just when I wish it would slow down.
Cottage Gardens
The cottage gardens have certainly kept me humble this month—deadheading, weeding, transplanting and then starting all over again. I honestly believe they are plotting against me. Every time I finish one flower bed, another seems to say, “ Look over here!” I’ve been doing my best to keep up, but the gardens have definitely been winning a few rounds. I always say, “ These Gardens are Killing Me Slowly!”
We had a good rainstorm and the Blue Jays enjoyed the filled birdbath.
And Blue Jays were not the only ones to wander into the gardens. We had another visiting monarch.
I even spotted a beautiful black butterfly with shimmering blue iridescent colors on its wings. Unfortunately, I didn’t get a picture, but I believe it was a Black Swallowtail Butterfly. It was such a special moment to see such a stunning creature!
Gardening brings me happy moments as well!
Manicures, Pedicures and Reunions
In the middle of all the gardening, I took a little break from dirt under my fingernails and treated myself to a manicure and pedicure before my 50th high school reunion. Pedicures are nothing new for me; I get them often. But manicures? Those don’t happen as often because I garden so much. It felt nice to be a little polished for a change, even if I knew those pretty nails wouldn’t survive long once I got back to gardening.
The reunion itself was such a wonderful evening. We had a terrific turnout, and I found myself talking with classmates I hadn’t seen since graduation. Isn’t it funny how, after a few minutes of conversation, it can feel like no time has passed at all? We shared stories, laughed about old memories, and caught up on fifty years of life. It was one of those nights that leaves you smiling long after it’s over.
Concert
As if that wasn’t enough excitement for one week, we also went to see John Mellencamp in concert. At 74, he is still out there doing what he does best. He sang all the favorites, sounded terrific, and reminded all of us why his music has stood the test of time. Some songs have a way of taking you right back to another chapter of your life.
Rock On!
It was a great night! We danced and we sang!
We even saw a rainbow as we walked into the concert.
Moon
Even though July is flying by, I stopped for a moment as I got out of the car to admire the moon shining in the middle of the day. It reminded me that no matter how busy life gets, there’s always time to notice something beautiful.
And soon thereafter we saw these clouds. They looked like cotton candy sprinkled in the sky!
Another Garden
I had to share some flowers from a garden in town. Pretty lilies!
Reflection
Looking back, July wasn’t about doing anything extraordinary. It was filled with flowers that needed tending (lots of tending), old friendships, a little pampering, good music, and plenty of reminders that life is good. Maybe July has been reminding me not to cling too tightly to each day but to appreciate them while they last.
I’m a bit frazzled that August is knocking at our door, but I’m ready to greet it with open arms, because I am so glad that I can still get up every morning to enjoy gardening and all the summer fun that August has to bring.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I think my gardens are calling my name again.
Thank You!
Thanks for coming back again. I always enjoy having you here. Until next time… take time to notice the little things and make sure to count your blessings. I’ll meet you right back here very soon!
Linking up with Terri for Sunday Stills and The Flower Hour
©Nancy and Two Trails One Road, 2015-2026. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Nancy and Two Trails One Road with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
Please do not reblog. Thank you!