I think I've started more than one blog with that headline, but today it is as fitting as ever.
Today is the first day of summer.
Today is the first day of real warmth and sunshine here in Seattle so far this year.
Today I add my first entry into this blog, using a name I've wanted to use ever since I saw the name of a shop in Seattle SO many years ago - "Herban Pottery". The wordplay of herban and urban is one of my favorites. I really feel like it hits close to home... especially now.
I've lived in a city my whole life. My (now) husband and I tried "country" living once, in Missoula MT. What an amazing and beautiful place to live. But it didn't take. We're city kids and country/small town living did not suit us one bit.
That was then...
Now we live on an island, a 30minute ferry ride away from Seattle. And it is magical. We found the most amazing home, in a beautiful setting and it happens to be a two-block walk to a beach with a view back into the city and includes Mt. Baker & Mt. Rainier on clear days.
We are so lucky. And so far, we are really appreciating every moment.
We have a nice yard now, and I've already carved out a bit of garden space. I still want to plant more this year, and I have a little time left I think. So far there are raspberries, beans, peas, a purple pepper ("Islander" variety), chives, fennel and parsley. I don't think the watermelons made it. I also have 3 tomato plants, some lettuce and a strawberry plant up on the deck (deer safe). Since last year I've been canning and jamming, thanks to three folks in particular. I don't know two of them - only through their blogs and books. The third, I had the great privilege to take a class from in person and learned SO much (and got the best apron ever!).
I'm hoping to keep growing tons of food that we eat, can and/or make jam out of. A little self-preservation seems like a grand idea.
I keep dreaming of opening a store.
A store that has good coffee, jam and baked goods - breads, cookies, cakes, pies.
Everybody likes a store like that right?
Especially if it was a super-cute airstream trailer that could go just about anywhere?
I just like making things that make people happy.
We'll just have to see how all that goes....
