The Paradox of August

August continues in typical fashion. We have had gorgeous days of sun, blue sky and warm temperatures. Petunias are nearing their end, but the chyrsanthemums are getting ready to pop. August is a month in which blistering days can give way to cool evenings. We can experience the dog days of summer one week and suddenly get a real taste of fall just a few days later. At this stage of the summer, I am tickled to see my hanging plants are looking strong and healthy. This is rare for me. By now, I've ususally killed them.

Today as I walked I found signs that fall is just around the corner. As Maggie and I walked the trail above our house, I found these beautiful leaves.

My garden is also displaying some signs. My hydrangea, which blooms white in the spring, slowly turns to a deep rose in the fall. It is a normally a beautiful bush and right now it is gorgeous.

There are 2 more weeks of August. One of the biggest surprises for me are the new families of birds under my deck. We have a nest of robins with 3 babies that hatched last week, and another nest of sparrows that hatched as well. I would have thought it was late to start a family! Did you know that baby robins are almost silent, while baby sparrows never shut up unless they are asleep? It's true. Trust me.

August is my favorite summer month. I will enjoy it to the last; rain, sun, cool or warm. Just knowing my hot days are numbered inspires me to enjoy every one there is.