MIDSUMMER AT MOM'S

If Mom's garden seemed lush way back in June, July finds it positively luxurious. A heavenly green mess of ambrosial scents, hues, shapes and textures. Like a painting. Like an ancient family quilt.

Mary's so lucky she's inherited this spectacular green thumb.

SPRINGTIME AT MOM'S

My mother's backyard this past weekend was more lush than than you could imagine, given the prairie weather. It was so nice to go home and see everyone. I love wandering around back there and letting her show me all her growing seedlings and changing landscapes.

They have been eating fresh spinach and lettuce for the last two months thanks to their new home-made cold frames! Quite the feat when you consider it was still snowing infrequently up until a couple weeks ago.

All the many construction projects of the back yard are finally almost complete, which means this year they get to just sit back and watch it all grow.

FOR ANNE ON HER BIRTHDAY

Thank you for lullaby singing and rocking us to sleep. Thank you for reading to us and supplying us with every material possible to nurture our imaginations. Thank you for always listening to and showing us unconditional affection. You are a fantastic mother and one of our most favorite people.

You have shown us what a full and modest life one can lead, that one can see the world and still love their home, that there is room for many people in one's heart.

We wish you continued happy years, proud achievements, and hope we have countless opportunities to thank you for all you have shared and taught us.

Mom, from the bottom of our hearts, we wish you a very happy birthday.

xoxo