Monday, August 5, 2013

SEASONS


I've really been enjoying the Mediterranean cookbook that I recently bought.  One of the things I am really interested in doing is making some flavored cooking oils.  The author gives proportions for making oils flavored with herbs and spices with an olive oil base.  These can be used for drizzling  over vegetables or pasta, brushing it on good bread and broiling it, or just for dipping.  So I loaded up on some Mason jars, smaller than the ones we usually see since you are only using about 1/2 to 1 cup of olive oil.  I'll let you know how it turns out.

I know that school has started in many areas.  That's a sure sign summer is coming to an end.  My kids always started the 3rd week of August and that was perfect.  Daughter Abby starts student teaching in 2 weeks.  She's very excited and begged me to take her shopping for "teacher clothes"!  So off we went to the mall and I have to say, we had a great afternoon.  In my mind I kept thinking...this will be the last time I take one of my children shopping for school.  .  My kids will always need me, in one capacity or another, albeit new needs, new experiences.  It's the things I've repetitively done for so long that make me feel a little empty inside.  Setting the same scratched  wooden table for dinner in the evening, one plate less every few years.  Three toothbrushes in the bathroom instead of six, a small carton of milk in the fridge instead of a gallon.  Well, it seems I'm getting a little melancholy (baby). I know we've discussed the "empty nest syndrome" a few times, but feel free to add your thoughts.  Was it hard or were you looking forward to it?  What do you do with the extra time (if you have it), and do you feel twinges of not being needed or sort of in the background now?



So, I will have two wreaths to share next time.  By the way, the boxwood dried up and withered away.  I think I procrastinated a bit too long.  We are almost ready for another clipping and now I know to work quickly so I can enjoy it for 2-3 months.  I also have the hooks for The Husband to attach to my new window, of course I could do it myself, but because it's glass and I don't want it to come crashing down on anyone, best to leave it to him.  And finally, I'm going to be allowed into Emily's new home with my camera (gasp), so I'll be sharing some of her gorgeous rooms and decorating ideas.  So stay tuned! :)

XO,
Jane



55 comments:

GLENDA CHILDERS said...

My garden (and me) are loving this weather, as well.

Fondly,
Glenda

Shirley said...

Hi Jane, The weather has been so beautiful for a change. The Chiefs football camp is in town and usually it will really be hot, but not this year. The boys start to school on the 19th. I have enjoyed the summer and I am going to miss doing things with them. This week I have been taking my middle one to art camp at the college. He told his brother he was ahead of him in school because he was going to college. You do feel a little lost. Have a wonderful day and enjoy the wonderful weather while we have it. Hugs and Prayers from your Missouri Friend

Unknown said...

I've been an empty nester for 3 years now - and I still can't cook for just the two of us - it looks so forlorn and sad to me LOL.......so I still cook as though they're all at home - we eat a lot of leftovers :)
Your garden is just gorgeous!
XOXO

Sarah said...

Jane, glad to know you are enjoying nice weather. Our days have heated up recently, but basically this has been a great summer in TX too. We could of course use more rain. You can send it our way if you are tired of it.

Eager to see shots of Emily's abode. '-)
~ Sarah

Tricia said...

Your patio is looking beautiful...so green and lush! We've had rather cool temperatures here too and it feels like fall to me. I think we only had about two weeks of hot weather. I feel your pain with the bat situation! We had one that decided to take up residence near out front door. I hung aluminum foil out there and now its decided to hang under the back porch at night...ugh. xo

Vicki @ lifeinmyemptynest said...

I like how you put it - in the background now in your children's lives. I'm ok with that and find they still need advise and a sympathetic ear. I just moved my daughter into her house on campus so I'm a little sad this week - it is an adjustment each time!

NanaDiana said...

The weather here has broken a record for COLD this last week- WHAT? After all the heat we had this summer! It is weird to cook for just 2 and I always have leftovers, too, like Suzan.

Your gardens are great- MUCH better than mine this year...my own are awful!

Hope you have a great week, Jane- xo Diana

Geneva said...

Hi Jane ... Your post just reminded me how quickly our Summer is coming to an end. Glad you've been able to enjoy your your days in the garden; it's so pretty! Looking forward to seeing the wreaths you're making. Always fun to see what's going on in your world.
Blessings!
Geneva

Pondside said...

Your garden looks so lush and pretty!
School doesn't start here until after Labour Day, but the days are already noticeably shorter and the evenings have cooled down considerably. I'd love to have a BLT with fresh tomatoes!

It's me said...

Beautiful garden pictures !! enjoy the week and the weather...love Ria...x !

Lynne said...

We have had the prettiest Summer, thus far.

Jane, your patio garden is fabulous! It's evident that the plants are thriving in the moderate weather with nature's showers. We love container gardening. We added four large pots to the mix this year.

Oh empty nest. Not an easy time. We worked mega hours during the college years which took the place of all of the school and sports activities.

After Chrislyn married, starting my blog helped me cope with the changes.

Mr D is once again focused on the garden. We are back to working lot's of hours and spend our summer evenings sharing ideas for our retirement in just a little over five years.

I love the "Fall turn", which always happens the first week of August here.

The best of blessings to you! Have a great week!
w/L.

Lynn said...

Your patio looks beautiful Jane! I love the flowered umbrella-Happy August:@)

Cindy @ Dwellings-The Heart of Your Home said...

I would stay in for the bat show too, don't like those things swooping around my head...give me the heebie-jeebies! I've been an empty nester for a good while now and nothing brings me to tears quicker than thinking about those days of having them here in the house with me. Our daughter and son-in-law are living with us (and my two grand-pups) until their house is finished being built and I'm LOVING having them here!
Enjoy your garden...
Blessings,
Cindy

Primitive Stars said...

Morning Jane, goes to quickly, glad you are enjoying nice summer weather, me too.....Wonderful garden pictures, love the wee birdie, Francine.

Theresa said...

Your patio is gorgeous and I would sit out there with you:) My nest has been empty for many years and now I just enjoy the lives of the grandchildren which helps a lot! Have a blessed day dear friend, BIG HUGS!

Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions said...

I've been enjoying our weather, too, Jane! I can't remember so many weeks where there was no humidity and it was just so enjoyable to sit outside. I guess I keep remembering what a hot disaster last Summer was! But, it seems like it will be changing this week and getting more humid, so I guess I should just consider us lucky.

That's great that your plants are doing so well. I think last year some of the same ones I planted this year did better with the higher heat and humidity.

Empty nest time can be tough in the beginning and then on & off at times. Your kids are still close by so you will see them, and you'll wind up filling your days with other things.

Unknown said...

Sounds like you are enjoying the last days of summer. I'm looking forward to Fall, even though we've had a really mild summer. I've been an empty nester for so long, that I've gotten accustomed to it. It does take a while though! Can't wait to see your wreaths. :)

Anonymous said...

What a beautiful garden!I have a dislike to bats too!We have been empty nesters for a while , I still don't cook right for just the two of us, left overs galore,

Penny from Enjoying The Simple Things said...

Your garden looks like the perfect spot for enjoying a summer day.

ANNE said...

Yikes - how can it be possible that summer is almost over?! Why don't I ever feel that way about winter??! lol

Our weather was all over the place this year, from floods to extreme heat waves to cold & rainy again...

Enjoy the rest of the summer days xox

Ricki Treleaven said...

I can't believe that school is starting so early some places. WOW! Shelley doesn't start for another two weeks. So happy you're enjoying some ice weather, and your patio area is simply stunning. I know you are enjoying it in the pretty weather, Jane!

xo,
RJ

Judi said...

Gosh, when I was a kid, we didn't start school until after Labor Day and as the years went by, they start back earlier each year ~ I had a bat living between our screen and storm window years ago and it was very interesting, but they do give me the creeps! Ah, empty nest, you know how poorly I've handled that!! Judi

Unknown said...

What a gorgeous garden patio you have here! I'm sure it loves the cool temps and rain. It's delightful! Though it's on the warm side in California I'm loving the summer produce. Loved your mention of flavored oils. I used a lemon oil on my capresse salad the other evening. Delicious!
Lovely blog!
Cheers, Heather @ Stylemindchic

Julie Marie said...

Hi Jane... your patio looks just beautiful... I would spend hours out there... and Milo looks so content in your back yard... how fun you have bats to watch at night!... they get such a bad rap from people, when actually they are harmless unless they are sick or hurt... and they eat so many of the mosquitoes and gnats and such... we had a "bat house" at our little farm for them... love that you call it the "vampire hour"!... all of the apricots around here were gone long ago... they are the first thing to come here, then the cherries... I can hardly wait for the fresh peaches that will soon be for sale down the lane... yum!... and my favorite Honeycrisp apples of course... I am loving the lingering Summer and looking forward to a beautiful Fall and Indian Summer... since I have no children, I can't respond on the "empty nest" thing... but I know that you are a close family and they are all just a phone call away... and I treasure my solitude when Jack is gone with the guys to coffee or somewhere... I think we all need some precious time alone... can't wait to see your window hung... and also the wreaths you are making... and inside Emily's house!... hope you have a beautiful week... xoxo Julie Marie

Julie Marie said...

I just noticed my comments are soooo much longer than most!... if you and I ever meet in person, we will have a real gab~fest!...

Leslie Harris said...

Jane this post really spoke to me. I chuckled about your wild garden and I could relate to your joy watching it grow. But I was truly touched to hear your feelings about going shopping with Abby and being aware of the passing of time. Boy can I relate. I find myself saying similar things. "This is the last time...."
Although I try to be in the moment and be grateful there are times when I feel my heart is being squeezed. My kids have been the center of my universe for so many years and as we prepare to take my youngest to college it's hard. I guess these are my growing pains as a mother. Yet I'm also aware of the wonderful possibilities ahead. Maybe mothers are a lot like caterpillars; we're always in the process of adapting to our kids' needs. Stretching ourselves until it hurts. And in the process we become transformed into something beautiful.
It's a nice thought isn't it?
hugs,
Leslie

Lisa @ Texas Decor said...

I'd avoid the night time bat show as well. :) We went on a tour in Austin once to see the bats fly out from the Congress Street Bridge and it was interesting, but kind of gross. LOL! Those cooking oils sound good. I love bread dipped in flavored olive oil with seasonings. I noticed all the Fall decor at the stores too. Makes me excited for Fall-like weather. We're still melting down here. :)

Traci said...

Can't wait to see the wreaths!

Teresa@1800 Farmhouse Rd said...

Oh how pretty! I will come and sit out there and have coffee with you if your hubby won't. Glad your weather has been cooperating, because ours sure hasn't. Most days it is too miserable to even get in the pool, and my plants have just not done well this summer.

Olive said...

Jane, we have a jungle too but no bats that I know of. We have a warren of rabbits you can have though! Glad you have good weather-it is humid here as always and rainy as it weirdly has been. xo, olive

Melanie said...

Your patio looks wonderful with all those plants! I love plants and flowers - the more, the better. Here I live out in the country and I've never even seen any bats! Makes me sad to know that fall is coming. Stores sure seem to rush it though. I've heard that Hobby Lobby has a lot of their Christmas stuff set out already. Ridiculous. I'm sure I'll be talking to you about the empty nest syndrome in about 1-1/2 weeks. I'm dreading it yet wanting to push him out, all at the same time, lol.

20 North Ora said...

Hi Jane - Our weather has certainly been mild up until a couple of weeks ago and the heat set in. We're in triple digits all of this week, so it's kinda burned up everything around here.

Judy

Susie said...

Blondie,I almost cried for you...taking your girl school clothes shopping. I know honey. Yes, some times I think I am all used up and no good for anything...but then I know better. My kids will need me.. even if they do not realize it at times...my mom passed away 6 years ago...and I still miss her..so I know that my kids do need me. xoxo, Susie

Barbara F. said...

Nice little oasis you have there, Jane. I am loving our weather the past week or so - NO humidity, lower than normal temps, really enjoying it. I am so afraid of bats! xo

Stacey said...

Your plants and patio are amazing! When it comes to kids leaving I'm torn. In a way I'm loving more freedom but I find myself really missing the young kid days. All that matters is that they find their way and are happy. Still working on my youngest son.... :)

Lulu said...

Talk about crazy weather. Right now I'm in Iceland and it's freezing, colder than winter in Houston and about the same as November in Maine. Couple that with 20 hours of daylight and it requires some getting used to!

Lori said...

You made me chuckle Janie ~ love your little table ~ looks like you are really getting back to nature! I wish there were more bats around because they eat so many mosquitoes ~ mind you if I had a close encounter like you had I may feel differently. Enjoy your week and your weather.

Kit said...

Love your patio! And that dandelion sign. It is great! I didn't have too much trouble when I became an empty nester. My girls live here in town and I get to see them quite often and I was eager to "venture into our new relationship". It has been great. I get a kick out of watching them live their own lives and still have some input when they ask. Plus, I have a craft and guest room now...LOL :) Kit

emily barlocker scott said...

I miss seasons! Sunny southern California gets boring after a while.
I'm jealous!

Mitzi said...

Our daughter is a teacher too and it has become tradition that she gets a new outfit for school every year. I think she has been teaching for nearly 25 years.

Ocean Breezes and Country Sneezes said...

Good luck to your daughter! I remember my 1st day of student teaching!!! Since I'm a career changer it wasn't that long ago!!!

Love flavored oils, I'm looking forward to seeing some of your yummy recipes!

Have a wonderful day!

Cindy (Applestone Cottage) said...

Hi Jane,
I love your patio! I have always loved the overflowing look and it's just perfect.
Empty nest is hard. Dan and I kind of enjoyed our 2 whole years of it, but then grand-babies come along and our nest isn't too empty too often.
Once you have grand-kids you will not have that feeling anymore.
They kind of take over where your kids left off. And they are super fun to spoil and buy cute clothes for. You will be a wonderful grandma! Hugs friend,
Won't be long for our get together and then it will seem like fall.
Cindy

Maria Elena said...

Jane, you are so lucky to have such a nice weather. Triple digits over here and no rain at all. Miserable! Your garden looks gorgeous!

Kelly said...

I know the summer has flown by for us. School just started back today here! Seems so early. I am not an empty nester yet, but feel like I'm getting a taste of it with my oldest preparing to leave for the Marines in a few months. My youngest is now in middle school which means longer school days for him. Things will definitely feel different this Fall!

bj said...

Loving your patio..it's like a secret garden...:)
I always get a little sad when school starts 'cause I miss seeing the grands as much. However, 2 of them play basketball so it's really fun when the games begin. :) Another is a cheerleader so we go to their games, just to watch her. :))
But...I will miss summertime.

Betty@SouthernGrace said...

The bats made me laugh. So thrilled to get to comment. I always read your blog but can never comment for some reason. Today was no problem :)

Doreen@foxdenrd said...

When I read your posts it's like visiting with a friend Cynthia. Wish we could meet one day!

As I read, I try to remember what I want to say or ask but never can quite remember it all. lol. I do remember one question though...what are 'bits'?

About empty nest syndrome...I can understand but at the same time I don't really relate. My daughter was always independent and it's of no surprise she now lives in Singapore. She gets that from me I suppose, and that's ok. I always try to remember that's it's our job to raise independent and responsible children. If they leave and are happy, we've done our jobs. Now it's our time ;). Who has time to be bored when we're bloggers! lol

So you spent 10 days at the lake?! How nice. I've been at the lake since Tuesday and will be leaving Sunday. That's a lot longer than the usual 2 days and it's been great.

xxx

xinex said...

I can't wait to see Emily's home and how she decorated it, being a interior designer. I like your sitting area outdoors. I guess I like jungle like as long as there aren't any snakes. I am leaving FL tomorrow and I have mixed emotions.i know I will miss the grandkids but I miss John also, been here for 3 weeks. Bats? Yikes! i am afraid of them....Christine

must love junk said...

Summer is going by too fast! Those pears look yummy, though! ;)
Susan

Babs said...

Glad you're having good weather. Your garden looks great. Looking forward to seeing your olive oil project and the wreaths. My front door has been naked all summer. I'm amazed at how much Fall and Christmas merchandise is in the stores right now. I'm still in Summer mode, at least for a few more weeks.
Have a great weekend. xo Babs

Unknown said...

Just popping back by to thank you for your lovely comments on Stylemindchic. I usually tend to stay on the sunny, more stylish side of life on the blog-but sometimes we just have to get real. I loved your comments, from the heart, and I look forward to following your lovely blog.
By the way-I lived in Berrien Springs, near St. Joseph, many years ago (Grad school stint). Is that near your Lake house area by any chance? Love your images.
Happy Weekend Blondie!
xx, Heather@ stylemindchic

Debbie said...

Your patio looks heavenly, Jane!! What a grand place to sit, and enjoy a cup of tea, coffee, or even a glass of wine.
Some days I really miss a house full of kids...then other days I'm grateful for the quiet time. This summer has been filled with grandkids running in and out. I'm loving it!!!
I LOVE the picture of the bird bath. It's so peaceful, and serene.
I'm NOT ready for Autumn. I'm hoping that Summer stays for a long time this year.
Have a wonderful weekend my sweet friend.
xo

Deb @ Frugal Little Bungalow said...

It seems it was empty for me for a short while but my sons kept moving in and out for a few years. So your milk goes back and forth from the small container to the gallon and then all of a sudden there's a grand kid and his sister and you have all sorts of milks ( such as strawberry and chocolate ) and you have to have "SWEET pickles, Grandma!" and everything is all cluttered and messy again and there are fingerprints on the windows again and WOW did that neat clean empty nest change :)

Melanie said...

Hi Jane! Your flowers are pretty...thanks for the tips on the arranging. I'll remember this next time I have a bouquet of flowers. Mmm, the grilled zucchini looks so good. My neighbor just gave me a gigantic zucchini, think I'll try grilling it. Aw, Layla is so cute in that pile of blankets! Love chinese lanterns (tho don't have any here)...a friend gave me a bunch of dried ones years ago and they look fantastic in fall arrangements. Yes, weddings are super expensive, even for the guests! Maybe you could help Emily by shopping for dresses at resale shops with her...my mom recently found the most gorgeous designer dress at a resale shop for her niece's wedding. Also, have you checked out Ross? Another inexpensive place to look for dresses. Also, if Emily is crafty, she could look into making something unique and beautiful for a wedding gift. I've seen some great ideas on Pinterest. I hope you and Kris enjoy meeting each other...did you know she only lives 15-20 min. away from me?!

PAINTORDIG.blogspot.com said...

My dogs have decided they can't be outside without me-I think it is the 110 heat index-they are smart enough to know that sometimes I forget them-they don't want me to go back inside and do that in this heat! Be careful making flavored oils, it is easy for botulism to set up. I just make enough to use at one time or at most two days-stored in fridge of course.