Here we are. Time for another seasonal shift from spring into summer. Time for gardens to grow and farmer’s markets to fill up with delicious fresh produce. Time for swimming and biking and grilling outside. Time for the sun to reach it’s zenith on June 21st, the summer solstice, just a week and a half away!

Long ago, my ancestors celebrated summer’s start on May Day, or Beltane, a fire festival where livestock was herded between the smoke of the flames to protect them for the upcoming season. I can only imagine how the animals must have felt being forced to walk between two fires. My dog would have run for the hills, as far away as possible! Summer Solstice was considered mid-summer back then, the height of the season, which today, of course, is when most of us celebrate this astrological change.

For me, I’ve been busy with work, walking my dog and slowly getting to my garden. I’ve been watching some baby birds grow! I’ve been noticing the light, enjoying the long shadows it casts right before sunset and that beautiful burst of fire-like glow just before it disappears over the ridge.

I wish I could say I have big travels plans this summer, or some exciting news to share, but instead I’ll continue to watch the light, water my garden and keep my fingers crossed that these baby birds have a good start in the world. Judging by the number of insects, they’ve been eating, I think they might be safe! How about you? How have the seasons been shifting in your world?

Until next time,
Holly