In this episode . . .
A tree full of birds. Tuning in by slowing down. The delights (and practicality) of the New England aster. Guest appearance by a marauding squirrel.
Specific plant varieties mentioned: New England aster
Otherwise this week, I’m . . .
Savouring: The abundance of dahlias. The tropical pops of ground cherry.
Tending: Deadheading, collecting seeds, some light weeding (admittedly I should be doing more, but this is a time in the season I let things go a little).
Harvesting: Dahlias, tomatoes, basil, beans, cucamelons.
Making: Fridge-pickled beans. My go-to recipe for any kind of fridge pickle is this recipe from the Food Network I’ve been making for years to much acclaim. You can knock it out in less than 30 minutes, no special canning equipment required.
Cross-pollination
In honour of slowing down . . .
“Coming Home at Twilight in Late Summer”
by Jane Kenyon
We turned into the drive,
and gravel flew up from the tires
like sparks from a fire. So much
to be done—the unpacking, the mail
and papers . . . the grass needed mowing . . .
We climbed stiffly out of the car.
The shut-off engine ticked as it cooled.
And then we noticed the pear tree,
the limbs so heavy with fruit
they nearly touched the ground.
We went out to the meadow; our steps
made black holes in the grass;
and we each took a pear,
and ate, and were grateful.
As always, thanks for listening in, and I love to hear from you. Send a message, leave a comment, don’t be a stranger.
Until next week!
Jen
Episode 20: Slowing down