September Sunshine

Whenever I picture a September day, the sky is always clear blue, and the air is crisp. I guess it isn't actually like that every single day, but it often seems true. We had such clear weather all month that the lawn dried up as if it was the heat of summer. So be it, those blue sky days will always be my favorite. 

When September starts, summer weather is always still here, but by month's end, it's fall. Never fails. 

I always get a bit sad watching the garden fade at the end of summer, but I do appreciate the rest from all the hard work in the heat.

I'll really miss my flowers when frost comes, I always do. But the arrival of fall colors always softens the blow. We've just started seeing fall colors here, and it makes me so happy! But as far as my garden goes, no fall colors are happening just yet. 

And soon, I'll be missing my monarchs. I've had the biggest year ever, with over 85 released and a few more to come. It's getting chilly, which makes it more challenging to let them go. At this point, I'm not sure they'll make it to Mexico. I just want them to have a chance to live free, even briefly. By the way, the first one below, with the huge gap in her wing arrived here in my garden one day as if nothing was wrong, and flew free during a long visit here. Amazing. 

I wish I could say that the pandemic is behind us, but I think we all know that isn't true. But it does feel more manageable, now that we've gotten used to it. It's still frightening and sad, but at least we are able to manage a few activities in safety. We even found a healthy way to see our family, finally! But will there be any holiday gatherings this year? It's looking doubtful, isn't it? During this period of waiting, home has been a place of security and comfort. The two of us love to fluff our nest, including the garden, so staying home isn't so bad. 

Technically, there's not much new in the garden. Most of these blooms and butterflies were seen here just last month. Let's just pretend otherwise, shall we? Let me know if you spot anything new. 

Here we are at the end of the month, and it's getting chilly out there. A few of my warm weather flowers are complaining about the chilly nights, and are pouting. (I see you impatiens!) Tomorrow will be October, a most welcome month. Many of my flowers will hang on for a few weeks yet, as the autumn colors build. I did make one autumn container that I absolutely love, this one just below. 

With chilly weather arriving, I'll be doing even more crafts. I don't crochet as much in the summer, it's just too hot on my lap. But I'm already starting a new afghan for my collection. And I had fun making these God's Eyes, a reminder of Girl Scout camp long ago. They add another hit of color in my crazy craft room. I only have one sunset to share this month though. All those blue skies mean less than exciting sunsets. Thanks for stopping by this month, and every month!