Summer has arrived

I don't know why, but it seems like every year we go straight from winter to summer with no decent spring. Either that or I just don't like spring and refuse to admit its presence (which actually seems more likely).

This weekend it became pretty apparent that summer is here, complete with plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures. On Friday I had(?) to stop at Oliver Winery and had to suppress some serious envy over their gardens. I've always had a black thumb, so seeing flowers in bloom makes me thoroughly appreciative that there are people in the world who are good at it.

I was even finally forced to pull some shorts out of my drawer this morning so we could take Penny Lane to the park. It was then that I realize how alarmingly pale I am. We're talking one shade above transparent over here. But I'm hoping a combination of some sun time and some self tanner will help rectify the situation. Plus, given how much Penny enjoyed the sun, it looks like the shorts are out to stay.

While we were at Bryan Park, we came across a mulberry tree near the tennis courts. The fruit is beginning to ripen and fall, staining the path a deep purple. Again, summer has arrived...

New recipes

I tried out a couple of new recipes tonight, and they were both delicious. So I thought I'd share.

First up, for dinner: Tilapia and Quinoa with Cucumbers and Feta from Everyday Food.

It was absolutely delicious. I haven't been a big fan of quinoa so far (I've tried a few recipes that all ended up mushy), but this definitely changed my mind. It was the perfect summer meal. Light and healthy.

Then I made Fast Raspberry Scones to take to my class tomorrow morning.

Who doesn't love the taste of a fresh raspberry? It's one of those summer flavors that I love to miss. There's something about that sweet-tart flavor and the crunch of the tiny seeds that screams sunshine, something that can only be enjoyed during the hot, humid days of Indiana's summer.

Here's a start

I've started this blog as a way to remind myself about the simple joys in life. Expect to hear about my adventures in cooking, (failed) attempts at crafting, my nerdy love of books and whatever else brings me a little joy.