How I've missed you! Though the time seems to have passed in the blink of an eye. Sadly, I never made it back to the hammock. This has been one of the busiest summers on record for me. I've been working non-stop for weeks but I'm not going to bore you with my whining. I feel lucky to have so many great projects. And you? Did you laze about reading novels and popping ripe berries into your mouth? At least for a few days? I hope so. Herewith, a few highlights from the past six weeks, some of which I'll expound upon in greater detail in the days to come.

 

The most exciting thing to happen by far (except perhaps for my discovery that all manner of frozen slushy cocktails can be made in the ice cream maker) was that WE CLOSED ON OUR LAND! Yes! G and I are now the proud owners of 5 stunning acres in Forestburgh, New York! Our gorgeous cleared meadow, above, with its big old apple tree, slopes gently down to the rocky bank of the Rio Reservoir. On all sides is pristine, undeveloped sanctuary for the bald eagle.

All our hard work (and G's ceaseless pampering) paid off, and our garden exploded with a veritable cornucopia: squash, eggplant, chiles, cucumbers, tomatoes, tomatillos, scallions and tons of herbs. I'll soon share with you many recipes using these bountiful ingredients.

With pals Philip and Stephanie, we attended a dinner hosted by Outstanding in the Field. Jim Lahey of Sullivan Street Bakery was the guest chef, and we had a wonderful, fresh meal along with 150 other people at one huge table set up near a little river on Mountain Sweet Berry Farm in Roscoe, New York. More on this and G's wonderful photos soon.

As you can see, I'm continuing with my resolution to grow in my grey hair. Although the two-tone effect is driving me nuts, I'm coming to terms with how it will ultimately look and I'm actually OK with it. The transition is painful but a supportive husband and kind friends make all the difference.

It was a hot summer! And though I may not have gotten in my fair share of naps, at least someone was taking advantage of those long, lazy afternoons (and mornings and evenings). I hope you relaxed and refreshed and are ready for fall, my favorite season. I love its bittersweet quality as we witness the glories of summer fade away. Welcome back, gentle readers.