DOG DAYS OF SUMMER

 

It is warming up here in the Northwest. Which means we are consistently above 60 degrees.  We have even hit 70 degrees once so far, and the next few days promise to bring a few more 70 degree days.

Above is Dexter who has discovered that the fountain in his front yard is just his size.  On warm days he gets in it and lies down right on top of the bubbler.  What a chill dog. Literally. When they say that Golden Retrievers are water dogs, he certainly lives up to his reputation.  If there is water any where around, you cannot keep him out of it.  Even if it is just a mud hole, he will plop himself down in it. Of course, he loves to swim and he goes nuts if you turn on a sprinkler or a hose. During warm days I always take my pack to the water so they can swim and exercise without overheating.

The ground is warming up enough for Jared to rototill and put in his vegetable garden last Saturday.  My flower garden is exploding.  My tulips are just past full bloom and starting to fade just as my oriental poppies are close to blooming. My peonies have buds on them as well.  The apple and pear tree are in full bloom. This is a gorgeous time in the Northwest when the Rhododendrons and the Lilacs come into bloom.

I have worked in my garden weeding every single day this week, which also means I have gotten into the hot tub every evening to soothe my sore muscles. There is something so zen about gardening.  Communing with nature, pondering life's problems while one digs in the dirt.  Nurturing growing things.  It just puts me in a good mood and makes me happy.  And you know what they say about if Momma ain't happy..........