Essay #67: Summer sunflowers

Sunflowers are such happy flowers. Not that the flowers themselves feel emotion, of course, but that they symbolize happiness and bright, sunny summer days.

I'm not much of a "flowery" or "frilly" girl, but I do appreciate fresh flowers. I'm considering decorating my dining room with sunflower photos to give the space a kiss of summer sun even in the midst of winter. I'm expecting better results with photos than my attempts at keeping houseplants that unfailingly meet tragic ends after a short time in my care. I could make a centerpiece from artificial flowers, but silk just can't replicate the life, character, and perfect imperfection of real flowers.

Essay #62: Peaches

I went to the farmer's market on Saturday in search of fresh spinach to make a salad for dinner. To my great disappointment, there was not a single leaf to be found. However, one vendor had something I'd never seen in a Wisconsin market:

Peaches! Fresh, warm, and juicy. The perfect summertime treat.

Essay #61: Time to play!

Summer just seems more relaxed than winter. It's time for everyone to get out and play!

Take a walk in the grass.

Get started on your summer reading list.

Laugh

And enjoy life with a good friend!

Essay #60: Summer's sweet

Thanks to everyone for their suggestions (and do keep adding them!). A couple of you mentioned trying a summer theme. Summer is in full swing here, and you know what that means: the farmer's market!

Mmm, strawberries...

I decided to explore the area farmer's market this weekend, and I was a bit surprised to find it significantly more stocked with goods than produce - especially since this is, after all, a predominantly agricultural region - and not a single cheese curd to be found. But I did find these gorgeous strawberries, one of my favorite summertime delights. I wonder if there are any pick-your-own strawberry patches around here?