opposing viewpoints.

back from a mini-trip to GA, the car still making odd noises, a weird combination of nerves and relaxation. today is monday, and i relish a few extra minutes before work, anticipating a long and hectic day, two days in a row. money is thin until the end of the week and payday, as it is all going to the car fund, or dentist fund, or moving fund. i do my best to get through to the positive moments awaiting me, though i fear the anxiety piling up the longer i stay.

In a floral state of mind.

I've been going absolutely batty for the beautiful fabric flowers I've been seeing this season. They've become more sophisticated than kitschy and add a nice little touch of color and summer to any outfit, casual or formal.

The photo is courtesy of the Sartorialist (a must read).

Also, if you're in the mood to do some handiwork, Martha Stewart's page has had some really nice instructionals as well.

Reboot.

Again, again, the excitement of something new. The to do list of summer has finally given way to warm weather fantasies. Alfred and I have shared time in the shade on grassy knolls, plans have been made to pick berries, late night romantic summer walks have taken place, and other such living out of the imagination. Our tomatoes are doing so well, through no help of our own, that we've had to prune them back several times. I have numerous recipes for pasta sauce and cold salads waiting in the wings. The only thing I have not yet been able to enjoy is swimming and that makes me miss mn ever more dearly. In time, in time.
The newest issue of National Geographic has an oh so wonderful article about Midwestern state fairs, written by Mr. Garrison Keilor, who perfectly captures the essence of what makes them both repulsing and great. I recommend it as a good read for those end of the summer anxieties that are already slowly creeping into the wings.
We slowly move forward in packing and say little goodbyes to this place that has sustained us for better or for worse. But still barely containing our excitement to leave and start from scratch.