We focused on the deck and turned it into our summer paradise. We moved all the deck furniture out and we brought over one hundred plants outside. Smiles

• We hung fluttering flags for joy

Flags and cluster lilies.

• We used our muscles — and our wits — to move the big plants.

Here are some of the big plants we moved. Heavy work. Satisfying.

• We swept and washed and watered. We sang and joked and shared.

Cluster lilies. A gift of a few wee bulbs from my Florida apprentices yields huge spurs of wonderfully scented flowers years later. Gratitude. Gratitude.

• We brought the Meyers lemon tree outside. Carefully.

Yes. We get lemons from it every winter.

• We even managed to get the massive rubber tree outside. Whew!

This was three gnawed off sticks when it came to live with me. Now over 8 feet tall.

• We admired the valerian patch — just about to bloom.

Started from one root many years ago. Once it found its happy place, it has been unstoppable. I use the flowers for tincture rather than them roots, but have to wait until the butterflies are done before harvesting.

• And we made nettle soup and picked a wild salad to accompany our fresh garlic goat cheese and homemade sprouted wheat sourdough bread for a nourishing lunch.

• And, of course, we watched the goats.

Do come and join us. There are tasks for all skills and ability levels.

As I approach 80 years old, I valued help from younger muscles.

Come for a day, or come for the weekend.

Looking forward to working with you soon.

Green blessings

Susun