Author: Kathleen

Posted on

Seasonal Favorites

IMG_0931Lately, I find myself brewing up pots of soup on these chilly evenings here in the mid-Atlantic and as much as I enjoy the crisp, cold air, the thought of snuggling up indoors is my idea of true comfort. But, when outdoors it is wondrous seeing colorful leaves falling to the ground, markets filled with pumpkins and the occasional sunrise that makes this time of year so spectacular {see last post Sunday Traditions}!

IMG_0735Vegetables from the farmers market and the gardens of Heath are tossed into a pot to make earthy broths for soups or stews to serve during lunch or dinner.

IMG_3714 IMG_3713Picturesque pumpkins and squash from local markets are beautiful this time of year. So, when driving through the mountains one cannot help snapping a few photos.

IMG_2771And, lastly these fabulous tomatoes just picked from the garden this afternoon by my brother John, who almost pulled the plants up a week ago during the first frost, but thought it best to leave them in the ground for a second harvest and these were the result! I cannot wait to make my delicious marinara sauce this weekend!!

Harvest stylishly,
K

Posted on

Sunday Traditions

IMG_2764{Watching sunrise from a high point within our development on Heathcliff. Look at Venus shining brightly in the east and I think that is Saturn next to her, simply gorgeous!}

Since, weekend living is moving indoors due to the brisk air and the sun setting earlier, I enjoy carving out a bit of time for myself, especially on Sundays to totally relax. Like many of you, I work very hard during the workweek. My day starts at 5:20 in order to be at work by 7:30 am, and attempting to utilize time wisely, I will prep meals beforehand so, that I am not cooking dinner at 8:00 pm. I for one cannot eat late, but would like to settle in to read or write before bedtime.

Saturdays is still a day of chores here at Heath until the garden is completely tucked away for winter or the house may need cleaning and there is always the washing of clothes.

But, Sundays is my day of rest and this morning I was up and out for an early morning walk at 6:00 to breathe in the freshest and coldest air yet. We had frost warnings throughout the mountains and several counties in Northern Virginia. The sky was filled with stars before sunrise and I was able to see Venus, Saturn, Jupiter along with the constellations Orion, Pleiades, Taurus the Bull and Cassiopeia. I walked for half an hour, listening to classical music, and made my way to Heathcliff to watch the sun rise, which was spectacular! Just taking these few quiet moments to watch this show was wondrous!

Relax stylishly,
K