Last Day of Summer

Well, the last official day of summer has arrived. Tonight we have our "Summer's End" party, which I'm mostly looking forward to. The whole crew and more are expected, and I will soon be on my way to the grocery store in an attempt to purchase the right amount of food for more than a dozen people. Thank goodness for the large slow cooker that I borrowed from SB's mom. By this afternoon it will be full of veggie chili.

Last night I reconnected with two friends who I had not seen in 6 months or more. We ate at a posh little foodie restaurant and, I must say, it was de-lish. The portions were slightly smaller than you'd expect elsewhere and the meals slightly more expensive, but hey - we got appetizers and dessert and had so much fun and it was the most worthwhile $25 I've spent in ages. Sometimes I'm too cheap, and last night was a good lesson in thinking about the return value of the dollars I spend.


A final note - my boss was so sweet and got doughnuts and coffee for my entire team of coworkers for my birthday. We had a little social in her office for 30 minutes or so in the morning and it was such a treat. It was thoughtful that she included so many people in the celebration, making me feel even more a part of the team (rather than if she had just gotten me a little sweet for my bday). She is the best. Also, my coworker made amazingly delicious pumpkin scones for my birthday (topped with spiced frosting)! So sweet. And all of this even though my birthday falls on the weekend. I am LUCKY.  Happy Friday. First, a poem. Then I'm off to begin cooking and cleaning...

Now it is fall

BY EDITH SÖDERGRAN

TRANSLATED FROM THE SWEDISH BY AVERILL CURDY

when all the golden birds

fly home across the blue deep water;

On shore I sit rapt in its scattering

                                                       glitter;

departure rustles through the trees.

This farewell is vast and separation draws close,

but reunion, that also is certain.

My head on my arm I fall asleep easily.

On my eyes a mother’s breath,

from her mouth to my heart:

sleep, child, and dream now the sun is gone.—