Summer's end

Where did the summer go? It was definitely a HOT one this year, so these past 70-80 degree days have seemed cool around here. I am glad though, because it gives me nicer days to work on my garden weeds. Why can't they create garden seeds that grow as well as weed seeds? I have kept up with the weeds somewhat, but then I planted my second garden in mid July for fall harvest and I have to wait until the veggie seeds sprout to weed the rows. It will taste so good having fresh garden lettuce, cucumbers, radishes, peas, green beans, tomatoes and corn next month. I just hope I can keep ahead of the pests.
My flower bed is looking terrific with most things in bloom right now. Soon the mums will be in full bloom with their fall colors, and then we'll all know cooler days will be on their way. I always have a hard time transitioning from shorts to jeans, but in the cold of winter those covered legs will appreciate the warm denim.
Our fields of corn and soybeans are looking very good on the surface right now. Bill is checking his equipment and storage bins and making the necessary repairs and tune-ups before we begin. Then in about a month the combines will be humming as the harvest gets into full swing. Soon after harvest is finished (and sometimes before), we will be celebrating Thanksgiving with family with Christmas and a new year soon to follow.
I always have a list of things I want to accomplish before the cold weather sets in and before we get into harvest, such as tightening up the house windows and doors, cleaning up trash that has blown in around the buildings, and cleaning up the gardens as they finish producing. This year's list also includes some painting projects - the outside doors on the garage, the basement bedroom doors, some planters, and the machine shed, if time. We also need to repair some shingles on the house and the tin on some buildings; never a dull moment around this farm. I do love the fall weather - I guess maybe that's because I was born in November. I love to hang out the laundry to blow in the fresh wind while my hair blows freely. The sun is warm on my face with a golden glow for fall. Then when the day is done, we retire to the house for an oven casserole and our warm fire before bedtime. It feels so good to snuggle under a light quilt at night with the harvest moon glowing outside. Feels like heaven!
I hope you all enjoy the change in seasons as much as we do. There is no better place on earth to live but IOWA.