Our Strawberry Summer

The other day we went strawberry picking in our own backyard. Last month I bought one plant from the farmer's market, and so far we've been treated to a handful of berries from it. Some have also gone to critters who steal them away in the night, but I suppose that's alright too.

Gretchen was eager to help me pick the berries from their little hiding place along the fence.

Pint sized berries for pint sized hands.

We also discovered a whole slew of berries which just happened to be growing near our porch. These berries are white on the inside instead of pink and have a slightly different sweetness to them.

A first taste of summer.

I was also happy to find a tangle of raspberry bushes in amongst the wild strawberry plants. This backyard holds so many surprises, and lovely ones at that. From poppies to bleeding hearts to berries -- such a fabulous place for Gretchen to explore.

Strawberries are the epitome of summer to me now, just as they were in my childhood when I would pick them from behind the shed where they grew along the fence line.

I hope Gretchen feels that same connection as she grows older.

Summer, berries, sweetness, sunshine & family. Simply beautiful memories.