Over the Backyard Fence

It’s been a while since I’ve written much of a blog post. I’d almost convinced myself that Over the Backyard Fence had run its course. However, I just can’t seem to stay away. I think I’ll begin with an update of what’s been going on around here. 

The month of May saw another major repair at our house. After replacing our roof in April, we had to replace the sewer line going from the house to the mainline in the street. No, not very exciting and truth be told if I’m going to spend that kind of money, I would prefer it be on something that I can enjoy. Like new furniture or a big trip somewhere! But both things were quite necessary, even if I can’t really see the fruits of the money spent. Still, another new purchase has made us very happy and that is a new truck for Dan. So, in spite of living on bread and water for a while, we can happily pull our little camper up any mountain we choose. That is an enjoyable thing. 

May has also been a time of planting and gardening, which is always exciting. One raised bed in particular has been completely redone, removing some very old and woody overgrown herbs and replacing them with perennial flowers. There will also be some planting required in the front yard where the above mentioned sewer repair left a gaping hole in the landscape.

Last weekend: We attended my niece’s wedding. She married a wonderful man and the ceremony was held in a grove of cottonwood trees on the ranch where they’re now living.

This week:

Was a good week for nature walks and short hikes. I went out one evening with a group and several mornings by myself exploring nature trails nearby. As hot as the days have been, June provides lovely evening walks and early morning walks.

Favorite things

• I’ve been playing around with a nature journal and having so much fun that I’m doing a little project at our Bird Club picnic today, providing materials for kids to create their own journals.
• Finding a brand new camping spot a couple of weeks ago. We are returning this week for a couple of nights.
• Coffee on the back porch first thing in the morning. A favorite summer tradition.
• Having nothing on the calendar, providing empty days to fill as I please. This week they included going to the library, reading for an hour or two every afternoon, a spur of the moment lunch date with a friend who was in town.
• Watching my grandson play baseball.

Favorite places

• A tea and coffee bar that is just up the road. They make gourmet drinks such as cardamom chai, honey roasted pecan lattes, and lavender lemonade. And just their good-ole coffee is pretty great, too, especially paired with a scone or butter croissant
• A couple of new accounts on Insta. @postscript.press is the account for a wonderful stationery store in Ashland, Nebraska. I love stopping by on the occasion we are driving through on the way to Wisconsin. Following their account helps me feel connected. Another account that I just found is @sophieblackall. A award-winning children’s book illustrator, her artwork makes me smile.