August thoughts

I always really enjoy Jo's ...ing posts and every now and then, I write my own. Jo has just published her August ...ing post, you must go and read it. Here's my own.

Admiring our wilderness meadow, which is in front of the house. It was a bit heavy on grasses but there is plenty of yellow rattle and hopefully, next year the balance will shift once more to flowering plants. It is never the same, and surprises me year after year. 

Enjoying the late summer moments. There is a faint whiff of autumn in the air, there is no denying it. Already the colours are toned down, less vibrant and more saturated.

Our wilderness meadow front garden.

Our new quince tree!

Yellow rattle seeds, very welcome for keeping grasses at bay!

Looking forward to eating apples and pears straight from the tree. It is a good year for both. Sadly, only a few plums. I have no idea what varieties either are!

Loving the intense blue of the borage in our front garden. It is pretty and prickly (just like me).

Eating a simple oven cooked dish of red rice with chicken, accompanied by a leafy green salad with shavings of carrot. It is a favourite recipe of mine (from Simply Nigella) because it is thrown together quickly and cooked in the oven.

Listening to old and long forgotten favourites on Spotify. It was nice to share my love for Italian singer and songwriter legends with my friend Ursula.



Smiling about Annie's latest attempt to keep James and Alistair on their toes. She tidied and cleaned their bedroom and together they sorted through their toy cupboard. There are now labels on each box. I never managed this in nearly 18 years of having children.... I like the note on their bunkbed, reminding them of the nighttime essential routine.

Sorting through school uniforms. Both boys are still the same size but there are a few items that were too worn out or stained and needed replacing. I have a large box of jumpers and polo shirts from Sam and Annie and also donations from friends and no shopping was involved (except the shoes of course). Both boys now have a full set of school clothes in acceptable condition, labelled and ready to go.

Realising that James is starting his last year at primary school. Where did the last six years go?? The kids are back at school tomorrow.

Remembering the heatwave that was. It is business as usual now, the Scottish "summer" has returned about about three weeks ago.



Adoring Jack. We just love him to bits. He has no recollection of ever falling of the garden wall... as we witnessed the other day over dinner, when he jumped off at maximum speed. There was a collective sharp intake of breath and a moment of panic until Jack collected himself, slightly puzzled. He then sauntered off into the depth of the back garden. We have now blocked easy access to the wall and at the very least, Jack has to stop and think before throwing himself off the wall.

Sewing my hexagon quilt, one hexagon at a time. It is slow and relaxing and an excellent opportunity for me to exercise patience.

Regretting buying flannel chequered fabrics for Alistair's quilt. It seemed like a good idea at the time but I just don't think the fabric is for him. Going back to the drawing board with this one. The flannels will make a nice camping quilt - one day.

Making an appointment to renew my Italian passport. The earliest appointment I could get was December! Just as well I have two passports. At least I won't have to worry needlessly about the dreaded settled status application as I need to do this with my Italian passport. Maybe by December, we'll know more.

Sampling Sam's baked goods. He made croissants, Pain au Raisin (with creme Anglaise and all) and Pain au Chocolat. They taste as good as the ones you buy in France. It is a shame he didn't focus as much energy on studying for exams as he did on improving his baking skills.... still, he is off to university in a few weeks time and all will be forgiven.

Receiving good news at work. No, I have not got a permanent post, nor have I been promoted but I think I am moving in the right direction, ever so slowly.

Looking at my collection of black t-shirts and wondering how long I can get away with wearing t-shirts with lots of tiny holes. I have to wear black vests so the holes are not noticeable....

Procrastinating at work in (other words, writing this post!)... Have a wonderful day. Thanks for visiting and saying hello.