PUPPY BREATH TO ICICLES

A simple idea ~ write about the things that make you happy. I read a friend's list (ASlowRead) and was inspired to join the fun. For the past 24 hours, I've added to my list and, occasionally, startled my dogs when I suddenly shout "moon"! or something else that comes to mind as I'm going about what I'm doing. I'm pretty sure they think I've finally fallen off the edge.

Herewith is my list ~ nowhere near complete, nor will it ever be, thankfully!

HAPPY THINGS

the color green

thunderstorms

raw oysters

colors!

wine

Italy

speaking Italian or German

bonfires

fog

snow

the scent of desert sage

gathering fresh eggs

a new pen (s)

naps

Reggie, my favorite cat (sshhh, don't tell)

a hand written letter in the mail

skinny dipping

the cheese counter at DeLaurenti's, or ANYwhere

owls

firewood stacked for winter

creating jewelry and paper arts

being awakened by my husband for some

middle of the night skin on skin

polka dots and ruffled edges

books

finding mushrooms, edible or not

aspen trees

a pot of hot rice

writing

the smell of roasting green chiles

red chile ristras

flower bouquets from the garden

yoga stretches

tide pools

finding cool stones

the sound of wind

of purring

of cello music

of something yummy bubbling on the stove

lakes

hugs

learning something new

TODAY'S HARVEST

Bright, vibrant color and fresh flavors that are true to taste are the best benefits of having a vegetable garden! I didn't know what was out there, nor what I would cook. So, I went out to see what the garden had in store for me. As you can see from the pic, I got quite a haul! The dishes I decided to cook were a Mangalore chicken curry and Fall River Vegetable Stew, from the Moosewood cookbook. The flavors are rich and full ~ one of our summer favorites. Just stirring it makes me feel healthy! I'll use the rest of the potatoes (planted five varieties) in an oyster stew.

Besides the veggies, I brought in great bunches of flowers to put in vases throughout the house. I always like to have enough flowers in the garden to be able to cut bouquets for my spirit. I hope that, whether or not you have your own garden, that you're taking in the late summer days and enjoying their energy. I wish I could have all of you at my table!