BLONDIE'S FOREST

I realized that I have been posting about once a week, which is way too slow, but I sort of feel just like the plants that are withering up and slowing down in the heat. Here in the Midwest, we have been hovering around the 90's all week long and I have become a recluse, even as far as putting on cotton jammies after my shower in the morning...heck, I'm not going anywhere. I decided today after going shopping for groceries, that I needed to take a look at the jungle growing out in my backyard. Rather than a jungle, it is more like a forest, surrounded on all sides by giant, old walnut trees. When you walk in the old gate you are greeted by a little pot with this sign.
No amount of water makes these guys perk up if it is sweltering. We have been getting a little bit of rain almost every evening but the petunias just won't bloom in the high temps.
These are weeds I think. I an expert on growing them. Ask me how to grow weeds and I will tell you. Better yet...don't, I could mess that up, too. Anyway, I pick these weeds and they dry up nicely for flower arrangements.
Now, these are some type of berries that grow on bushes that are as tall and full as trees. The kids used to eat them when they were younger {and lived}, but I don't know what they are. The Husband says mulberries {?}. Anyone want to guess? They get really dark when ripe.
My hosta's are ready to bloom. I have these everywhere because of the shade, most are huge. The variety with the white flowers, which I have at the lake, smell heavenly. Put some in a vase if you have them...they will perfume the whole room. These lavender colored ones don't smell.
Some people say day lilies are weeds because they grow so profusely by the roads here in the Midwest, but I love them. I have them in several colors, but I think I like these yellow ones best.
Part of my forest...
And here is Milo, waiting to go to the lake. He wants to visit Simba, Gabby and Missy...he lives for these neighbors/dogs. No company this weekend for us. I splurged at the store and bought thick steaks and Littleneck clams for a little feast tomorrow night. Also some things to make Cole slaw and a new pasta salad that I will share with you one of these days. Last weekend I was also introduced to a new drink...we named them Diamond Lake Margaritas. They are made with tequila, Corona beer and frozen limeade. I don't know the exact amounts but I will get them because I am going to make them again this weekend. They are dangerous because they are so refreshing and light. I don't drink mixed drinks other than the occasional Bloody Mary or Lemondrop martini, but I will vouch for the Diamond Lake Margarita...Delicious!!

Now off I go to pack up. This weekend is supposed to be in the 80's. I have my book and favorite beach towel. Hope you all have a marvelous weekend, too. :-)