The Mountain Ridges

--internet photo of Sugar Loaf Mountain


We drove way out in the country today to pick up Annabelle and a friend with whom she had spent the night.

What I like about those drives is that the mountains are beautiful and usually, no traffic. I mean, no traffic. It is peaceful and I really despise traffic jams.

The bad thing is that it looks like fall here. The trees on the mountain ridges are turning brown, dropping their leaves to conserve energy because of the drought. I have seen this several times in the last 5 years. At first, I thought they were all dead, but now I know, they will be back after a long rest.

I have a few elderly friends who garden. They say that the best time to water is at night, so the plants can soak up the water slowly in the cooler temps. The scorching sun and drought have resulted in the plants producing smaller, less scrumptious fruits/veggies.

However, my neighbor BJ has brought two loads of yummy tomatoes for us, so his are doing well.

As you might predict, I think of people living here in the past. How in the world did they feed families with the poor soil and rare rain? I met an elderly man at Elliot's physical therapy. Each Friday he passes out bags of groceries to parents in his little town through the wonderful "Backpack Program". His eyes lit up when talking about the smiles on the children's faces, knowing they would have food for the weekend.

I am feeling so blessed these days. Our cup runneth over with food and sunshine and laughter. It has been a great summer for us. Hope it has for you, too!