Posted on Jul 1, 2014 10:17 AMAnother month has come and gone Since June 4, 2014.That was the last post until now. In this time span summer arrived on the calendar without much pomp or circumstance, but with lots of rain and cool temperatures. June was one of our rainiest months on record according to the local record keepers. The official arrival of summer was set at 6:51 a.m. on June 21, 2014 according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac. They say the timing of the summer solstice depends on when the Sun reaches its farthest point north of the equator. And with Daylight Savings Time we are now blessed with daylight well past 9:00 p.m. never mind trying to get a good night of sleep after getting to bed late. It seems everyone is adjusting to more sunlight, more work and more summer activities. This post will begin on the last day of June, and will include random pictures of summer time thoughts, plants and events- especially the favorites. It will most likely be a diary of sorts, so here goes:
For starters I’d like to list some of my favorite things about Summer:
1. The song of a nesting wren on a hot summer day sounds like musical water running over stones in a brook. We have them singing all summer long and supply them with adequate nest boxes to raise offspring.
2. The delicate fragrance of the first rose of spring/summer to open. This is usually Lillian Gibson, followed by Iceberg, Madame Hardy & Therese Bugnet. The old shrub roses bloom only once, but are worth every moment of my time. So please do take time to stop and smell the roses before they’re gone.
3. Summer brings with it the look and aroma of fresh cut lawns and new mown hay, especially alfalfa. There is a nostalgic feeling when farmers begin their first mowings; and even more so when the Amish farmers hitch up their teams of faithful work horses. I am fortunate to have such a neighbor less than a mile down the road. They add a rustic charm to this neighborhood with their down to earth lifestyle, practicality and simplicity. This is something I will always treasure about summer.
4. Summer brings simple things which might go un-noticed by some folks. They are a source of entertainment, learning and much pleasure. The pictures below represent some of those simple things of summer which give the greatest pleasure and enjoyment out here in the country. Often these things can be a new kitten, an orphaned fawn, chickens going to roost or a butterfly feeding on a flower..
5. My list continues with fireflies. (Known as 'Lightning Bugs' to some of us.)
6. New born animals in the farm lots out in the rural areas. This includes birds, chicks, calves, kittens, colts & puppies.
7. First ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce and best of all "
sweet corn", and chilled red-ripe watermelon too.
8. The view and promise of all growing plants (except weeds)!
9. The memory and honor given to loved ones who have passed on. (Including pets!)
10. I am editing this post to add my tenth favorite thing about summer on July 2, 2014. It is this: There is something new and exciting in the world of country life and gardening every day. A new occurrence, new plants blooming in the landscape, fresh vegetables from the garden. As stated previously this might not appeal to the average person, but for some of us it is an important part of each day to see what is fresh and new. The pictures below illustrate some new things here today.
Before closing I want to extend my heartiest congratulations to Dave, Trish & Family for attaining three successful years of ATP and its many extended family members. Special thanks to all moderators
each and every one who work silently and diligently behind the scenes keeping things correct & tidy. Most of all congratulations are in order to
all members who contribute so much to and make this site a daily part of our lives. We are all enriched by and from this great institution and its source of information! And finally, may I add my best wishes for a safe & happy Fourth Of July holiday.
To Be Continued & Updated/Corrected As Needed. 
