On Father’s Day we all take a few moments to reflect on the fathers and grandfathers that have been in our lives. After all these years I appreciate my father even more – for his guidance and support, his love and caring, as well as all the little (and big things) he did for me. I fondly remember a playhouse he built when I was little, the dance and piano lessons that helped shape me, and the horse that he got for me when I was in high school. The trips we took, his patience in teaching me, and the always available voice on the other end of the phone line…so many things I would love to thank him for today if he were still here. To all the fathers and grandfathers that build things for their children and grandchildren, and give them the support and love that’s so necessary throughout our lives – thank you.
Author: lindastaatsphoto
Hot summer evening at the lake
As our temperatures rushed into summer highs yesterday, people were resorting to the tried and true ways of staying cool. Mid 90’s and high humidity cause some Minnesotans to shelter in air conditioning, while the majority choose to embrace the weather but cool off by a lake. Whatever wind that’s blowing across the lake surface cools and becomes a delightful and welcome breeze. People were out at Lake Como canoeing, kayaking, walking, relaxing and savoring the warmth of summer; winter’s cold seemed a long way away!
Peony fields
On a brilliant summer’s day we took a drive west of the Twin Cities to Swenson Gardens in Howard Lake, Minnesota. Their gardens were open for their annual Peony Field Days, and the timing was perfect. With warmer temperatures and bright sunshine many of the peonies had come into full bloom. It was a chance to wander and dream and plan for places in our own garden for more of these lovely plants. I especially liked these America peonies – their bright red was a wonderful contract to the green foliage and the blue sky with its puffy clouds.
A burst of clematis blooms
All within a few days the clematis have burst forth. A delicate pale yellow bloom with a yellow center, this lemon chiffon clematis has climbed up the trellis and bloomed all at once. The cooler temperatures and bright sunshine of the past week coaxed the buds to open in profusion. Soon the other clematis will follow, but it will be hard to top the beauty and fullness of this one.
Lilac blooms
The lilac bushes has blossomed out, and their sweet smell lingers in the air. We’re fortunate to have both white and purple lilacs. Throughout the neighborhood there are lilac bushes and hedges, and some are over 10 feet tall. Their colors and delicateness are noticeable. After the heavy rain from a day ago, the alley was littered with white and purple petals scattered on the ground. As short-lived as their blooming season is, it makes me appreciate their beauty and their scent even more.
lindastaatsphoto.com 