EKjourney Backup

I have been so thankful for beauty this July.  The weather has been unusually cool and my garden unusual stunning (We haven't finished the outside yet so I haven't done my beautiful garden tour..but hopefully, it is coming soon!). We have had a really emotional week.  This summer, despite my hopes for recovery from a busy year, has been productive but not fun or relaxing.   Phil has interviewed for the Director of Technology at the high school.  For us, for him, this isn't just a job he is applying for.  It is a position that has been redefined largely in part because of the work that he has done over the past two years as a TOSA (teacher on special assignment).  He has built relationships with individuals, teams, administrative staff, program representatives; written programs; and been instrumental in making changes; plus he is in the middle of a lot of projects that he has created/overseen that could very well be turned over to someone else.  It is e...

I confess, I love a summer storm!  I love the sticky hot weather.  I love the dark clouds moving swiftly across the sky.  I love the sudden downpour and its sudden end.  I love the drippy drops on the leaves and flowers magnifying the brilliance of color.  I love the brief darkness interrupting the normal sunny skies and long hours of daylight.  I love working outside and standing under the trees watching the streaks in the air, listening to the rhythmic patter, and smelling the dust as it settles.

We have been working long hours getting our yard whipped into shape.  I am so pleased with the way it is is looking!  We started in the front yard and our working our way around back.  The front is weeded, mulched, and I bought a ton of colorful annuals and planted them in hanging baskets and pots.  I can't tell you how much I have enjoyed looking out the window and seeing all the color!  I haven't done hanging baskets for years and it feels a bit like putting a brand new painting on a blank wall.   I will have a blog garden tour as soon as we finish! We got pond for free a couple of years ago and decided to put it here since we really didn't have a plan for it.  I am envisioning a little bubbly pump and some water plants.  Water gardens are my most favorite! My 4th of July project - thistles, blackberries, and ivy! The front yard Unfortunately, I took this picture in the morning when the tables weren't set up.  We have discovered this to be ...

Taken in the afternoon, on the way home from running errands. I can't believe I get to live here!  I truly think, this may be one of the most beautiful places on Earth!  At times, it takes my breath away.