Summer

This summer has been really special.  We have enjoyed mild temperatures and rain.  During a typical Kansas summer, we have a significantly different landscape by late-August - brown grass, trees starting to drop leaves, and a finished garden.

Our weather pattern has allowed us to extend the enjoyment of some of the things we love.

One simple thing is to be outside for more than a few minutes.  When it is over 100 degrees with high humidity, you rush around outside to make it back to air conditioned interiors.  When you have a temperature in the 80s, even with high humidity, it is a different ballgame.  You might linger a little longer outside.

 Our flowers have extended their blooms. The cosmos in the garden offer a brilliant pop of color.  Small dainty blooms.

 Our sunflowers were planted on a whim during one of my last late spring plantings.

 I have really enjoyed watching each flower bloom.  This picture is a favorite - watching the bloom "wake up."

 This particular variety, Lemon Queen, attracts pollinators galore and ends up being an impressive, towering plant.

Every Kansas garden needs a few sunflowers.

We are looking forward to the fall and the next garden season.