The last memory of summer

Winter is approaching, it's getting colder and darker and we are having to pack the last of summer away. I tidied up my garden a couple of weekends ago and made room for the autumn and winter plants. This lovely sunflower was still soldiering on and is now brightening things up in the house. Of the six seeds I planted this was the only survivor. But it gave lots of joy and still after 2 weeks after being moved to a jam jar (!) it's looking sunny and sweet. It reminds me of our summer holiday in France, driving past all those golden fields packed with sunflowers, stopping for picnics and enjoying wine, cheese and french bread.. Sunshine in a jar!!

Homemade Mintsauce

Earlier this summer I wanted to plant and grow herbs but I ran out of pots so I used an old wine box, it looks lovely I think. We've had sage, chives and lemon thyme all summer.. the basil didn't make it unfortunately. First I also planted mint (I am new at this) in the same pot - until I realised that mint grows and spreads until it takes over completely.. so I had to move it to it's own pot. We also have several pots of rosemary, a must when cooking lamb. Serve with homemade mint sauce on the side obviously, just add some white vinegar and caster sugar to freshly chopped mint and let it infuse.. enjoy with your Sunday roast!

Mintsauce!

Sharing with friends

When I came from work last night I thought that it would be nice to have some strawberries after dinner, I looked out the window and there was this little chap, happily munching away. He was so cute that I just had to let him get on with it.. I've heard they are selling strawberries in the supermarket for £1.99 at the moment...

cheeky little squirrel

Strawberries

Finally the first strawberries from our little plants are ready to eat, midsummer weekend wouldn't be midsummer without strawberries. You don't need a big garden to grow your own! Our next project is to start growing herbs, we don't have much room left on our little patio but I have a plan!

My Garden

This is an exciting time, watching everything coming out in blossom.. I watch my pots every day. Even if you don't have a big garden there is still a lot you can grow. My Clematis with light purple flowers is looking gorgeous, even though it's still got quite a bit to grow and climb the flowers are quite breathtaking! I am looking forward to a few Strawberries, although I love the plants now too, it's little white flowers are so delicate..