Harvest

As we enjoy the patio tomatoes that are finally starting to yield, I'm turning again to some wonderful Okanagan tomatoes to fill my pantry. This year, my canning is limited to tomatoes, nectarines and peaches. I seem to get much more easily overwhelmed these days and figure that with a combined 70 pounds of fruit, I am tackling the maximum of what I can rationally handle. The Okanagan peaches are absolutely fantastic this year... and hopefully there will be enough to fill some jars after we finish stuffing our faces.

While Jeff was barbequeing our dinner last night, I looked up with shock to see that the maple tree off our back deck is in the midst of changing colour. It continues to be so hot here (+34 today) that I had forgotten autumn is about to appear.

Bit of Lipstick

A year ago, Jeff and I set out to add some much needed curb appeal to our house. The main part of this project involved tearing out the old entrance steps last fall and building a replacement that was both functional and attractive (see a quick slideshow here). This summer, Jeff has done a great job installing brick terraces at the front gate and the foot of the new stairs (photos to come soon) and with these construction phases complete, we're moving ahead to the last phase of straight beautification.

Jeff and I debated back and forth on the pros and cons of shutters, finally deciding that our house could do with a few shots of pure cosmetic help. The change isn't that dramatic... but I think this little bit of lipstick does make a positive difference.

one window with shutters... and one without 

Except for when this photo was taken, I really WAS holding the ladder!

To compare- the BEFORE

and AFTER (including trim to the unruly cedar tower)

Catching up

It's been a busy few weeks here.  Jeff was away for over a week trying to fix a very sick robot while I have been trying to get caught up on school work.  After a wonderful visit with 5 friends from Ontario, ongoing brick work in the yard and lots of overtime hours for Jeff at work, we enjoyed an overnight visit this weekend to a friend's condo overlooking Rathtrevor Beach. It was actually our third trip to Rathtrevor this month, but we're not complaining as it is still one of my favourite places on this island. We usually enjoy the view by walking on the beach itself, and it was a fun change to enjoy it from a higher vantage point- especially with morning coffee on the deck. This is MY kind of camping!

looking at high tide and sunset from our balcony

same view in the morning, with the tide going out

the view as it was seen directly from my pillow

Indian summer

While spring and early summer here on Vancouver Island was a wet mess, we are having a glorious Indian summer with bright skies, breezy warm nights and some happy flowers.

Unwelcome neighbour

While watering my tomatoes today, I was met by this creature. I'm not sure exactly what it is... but I think Jeff's policy of "relocation instead of termination" should be revisited.

Bricks

A very busy and wet spring/summer delayed our plans to finish the renovation Jeff and I started last fall on our front steps. Phase two of the renovation began with laying a brick terrace at the bottom of the steps and August finally brought dry enough weather to tackle the task. After looking at the multitude of brick choices available, we went with a boring (therefore, affordable) traditional rectangle. Thankfully, it is such an improvement on the piece of plywood that was a temporary fix for the past six months that we've completely forgotten about the fancier (and much more expensive) alternatives. I think Jeff is doing a bang-up job so far.... and hopefully, it will all be done in time for some much anticipated guests who are arriving in a few weeks.

front terrace.... courtesy of some strong black tea in Jeff's preferred "teacup"

the master mason in action

Day at the Beach

There is a hearty group of Jeff's family members here on Vancouver Island who are always up for a party... or an excuse to have a party.  Between major holidays and family birthdays, we usually find ourselves enjoying each other's great company (and filling our faces) every month or so. We have so much fun and it's so good to have each other.

Since my birthday in early July was lost in the rush for me to get to Saskatchewan, my return home has been quickly followed with plans for a party. We spent a glorious Saturday afternoon at Rathtrevor Beach in Parksville barbequeing salmon and walking on the beach. At low tide, the ocean recedes almost a kilometre at Rathtrevor Beach and it's the perfect place to take a walk or build a sand castle. It's the BEST place to spend a summer afternoon.

birthday cupcakes

homage to my home province

evidence of a romantic walk on the beach

the best ever beach Sherpa

Home

Since I've been away from home pretty much since the long weekend in May, it has been a little odd getting used to being back here again.  That being said... it's really good to be home.

It seems that after a month of rain here, I brought some Saskatchewan sunshine back with me and finally kick-started summer. Let's hope it continues!