I always say the best time in my garden is early-mid June. That’s when everything is lush and green, and the peonies, iris and other spring flowers are at their best.
But how could I forget the garden gifts of early July? The red bee balm, several shades of phlox, the clematis and hydrangea?
It’s a lovely time in our neck of the woods. As I sit on our back deck among the trees, overlooking the garden, I give thanks to God and Mother Nature for the privilege of the good weather (for a girl born and raised in Jamaica, I can’t stand blistering hot weather or pepper!), the Earth’s bounty and the privilege of living here.
And, of course, to my wonderful partner who also does the heavier gardening chores.
And for those of you who know my bad ways – yes, I am wearing my ragged old ivory-colour house robe and equally ragged Christmas slippers as I write this – honestly, I’m a disgrace to my stylish relatives and friends.
I hope the month is off to a good start and that you are keeping your spirits up despite all the bad news.
These days I have returned to a good habit from my worst post-accident years by counting and giving thanks for every blessing in my life, from family and friends to the ability to wash my hair and clean my kitchen. Nothing is taken for granted. Nothing.
My best wishes to you and yours,
Cynthia.
Cynthia Reyes 
Giving thanks, being grateful for everything is the best habit to cultivate along with your beautiful garden. Sometimes the smallest things bring the greatest joy. Best wishes to you too.
Your garden looks lush and beautiful. I have to say I like to spend time in my PJs too. That is excellent advice to look for the blessings in life. I’m hitting a five-year anniversary and have spent those years reprogramming thoughts.
It’s so nice to see you and your slippers here on WordPress Cynthia! 😋 Gardens and gratitude are a winning combo for living well. Kudos and hugs. 🌼💕
Beautiful – Happy Summer from blistering South Florida!
What a lovely garden to relax and soak up the sights and sounds of nature! My husband is the gardener and I so appreciate all of his efforts as I take it all in throughout the day. I love lazy mornings when I can linger in my pj’s and enjoy a hot cup of tea or coffee. I agree – take nothing for granted. Glad to see you are enjoying your blessings!
Nice to see your garden in bloom! Spending a lot of time in our gardens means we’re constantly giving thanks!
I love your garden, Cynthia, especially those flaming red monarda! You are right, giving thanks for what we have and what we can do helps get through the worst of times.
Thank you, Lavinia. Hoping you and the family (human and feline) and the farm are doing well.
Every day is a gift. Doing well and getting better. ❤️
Totally lovely friend Cynthia. Big hugs to you and yours. Rita
Thank you, Rita. Big hugs back!
Your July garden is beautiful! It must be very restorative. I’m with you about no longer taking any blessing for granted.
Just lovely, Cynthia. So beautiful. And I’m with you on wearing the old stuff. Comfy is counts.
Yes. Right now I am sitting comfortably in the garden but a bird is yelling at me because I’m sitting too close to its feeder!
Hahaha. So funny. They do though. Yell I mean. Once I was attacked viciously by a starling when I walked past her nest.
Pretty photos and important reminders to be thankful for what we have!
Good thoughts, Cynthia.
Your flowers look delightful – can’t put my finger on the name of the flower?
Anyway, all is good here. This summer is on the cool side, which I like, but the pollen appears to be particularly vicious, which I don’t like quite as much.
Purple clematis. Red bee balm (monarda). How lovely to hear from you, Helen. I’m sorry to hear about how the pollen affects you. A family member of mine is badly affected by it too.
Tried to visit your blog but got a privacy notice. Will try later from computer too.
Thanks for trying my blog, Cynthia. I have set it to private for the moment as someone was behaving rather strangely on Monday and I felt spooked. However, I’ll now set it so that those who are genuine followers of mine, whose blogs I also read, can continue to access it.
I don’t blog as much anymore but it would be a shame to lose contact with my blogging friends 😊
Sorry to hear that, Helen. Weirdos everywhere.
I like your desk with trees all around . This make me thing of my backyard surounded of trees .
Your flowers are remarkable . Don’ t you have roses ? June is also the rose month .
I understand about the clothes, Cynthia . The old clothes are the best! 🙂
Love ❤
Michel
Beautiful and inviting garden you have Cynthia. Garden gifts of early July and good weather are a joy, and all the reason to give thanks. Thank you for sharing the everyday beauty that surrounds you. Enjoy the season! ❤
Hi Cynthia, thank you for your messages, a lot has happened over the last couple of years, but much to be grateful for and I haven’t posted for some while. I cannot find your email address to reply, can you send it to me on mine? Love Julie x
Your garden is beautiful and tranquil. I miss the seasonal gardens in Connecticut. In Florida everything is tropical and beautiful . Thank you for sharing your lovely garden
Thanks so much for leaving a comment, Annette! Good to hear from you.
I have always believed that happiness is a state of mind and that one of the ways to achieve that state of mind is to concentrate on the good things that we can be grateful for. The minute you start looking for good stuff, it begins to pop up everywhere. 🙂
I love the slippers but I adore your garden even more! Gardening is my favorite pass time 🥰🤗