Going Gently into July
fireflies and early harvests
Hello friend! My name is Amy. I'm so happy you've stopped by ✨. If you’re new here, a warm welcome to you! This space is where I meander through midlife, connecting to my true self through the seasonal shifts and simpler living, and seeking my inner wise woman. If you are also on this path and looking for someone to walk gently beside you, I see you and am here. Let’s color outside the lines together.
I can tell that the days are shortening as the wheel turns toward the approaching fall. I have noticed it staying darker later in the morning, but it hasn’t felt oppressive, more like a gentle hug, a little extra recovery time from busy days at work and around the farm. The other night, B called me outside at dusk and said, “Just watch, I was out here last night and I’ve never seen so many fireflies in my life!” We watched them awaken for the evening. They start to rise in waves, moving higher and higher, and suddenly the sky is alight with fireflies; more than I’ve ever seen at once before. As I immerse myself in the experience, I get a sense that they are but a bridge to the otherworldly. Each year, the fireflies are fleeting, and I love that they seem to give me a glimpse into what is possible, to what we miss when we are not attuned, and I find myself immensely grateful for these little glimpses.
After spending most of the day outside on the fourth, we took refuge from the heat over the long holiday weekend and focused on indoor farm chores.
We had our final hives in 2019, and one remaining box to harvest. It felt so good processing the honey and beeswax….hmmm, maybe we should set up a new space for hives next season?! I also harvested loads of basil and made a big batch of pesto to eat as part of dinners all week. We have tons of eggplant and tomatoes setting right now, so I’m hopeful for a plentiful harvest in mid-August, and canning season will begin in earnest.
I find these indoor farm tasks gentle compared to other big chores around the property, and can settle into the gentle rhythm they offer.
Last night's full moon was ushered in with a gentle and steady rain. Though the moon itself was obscured, the full moon energy has been evident all week. Full moons are a good time to release what no longer serves you, set new intentions, and celebrate abundance. Since this moon reflects the beginning of the second half of the year, it is a good time to take stock of where you are. When I completed the Omen Days in December, the theme for July was embracing synchronicities.
I have found the Omen Days reflections helpful all year. I love the beauty in small things, the magic of fireflies, the gratitude for a long-delayed honey harvest, and the feeling of synchronicity with the season while caring for and soon to be harvesting our bounty.
Until next time,
Beautiful reflections on the passage of days.
I love how you recognize the extraordinary in the ordinary.