So far, this summer seems to be yet another summer of unpredictability.
A year ago, we were juggling through the COVID-19 pandemic. There weren't many sports to play or large events to cover, and many of us had a bit more time on our hands. Personally, my summer filled up in a unique way, as our family decided to take on a fun project and build a little cabin on some family property. It turned into an unexpected but great way to fill the weekends. It was also well-timed as we managed to beat the increase in lumber prices that occurred soon after.
This summer, life is beginning to return to normal, but it definitely isn't there yet. Normally, the spring sport seasons have wrapped up weeks ago. Instead, due to a delayed start to the season, we seem to still find ourselves on baseball and soccer fields well into July.
And then there's the weather...
As someone with a larger-than-average garden - or multiple gardens - the extreme heat and low precipitation has been a challenge. But, if the last 16 months have taught me anything, it's that there are many things in this world out of our control, and worrying, stressing, and focusing on those things really doesn't help the situation.
So, after watching some of the plants struggle through the 30 degree Celsius weather, this past week offered a pleasant surprise... and some seasonal work that I really wasn't sure I would have to do. I've picked way more peas than I thought I would, and my 10-year-old has been asking for garden potatoes nearly every night for the past week, which I can gladly supply.
I'm definitely a believer in at least learning how to grow some of your own food, and if you don't have the space or resources, then I think everyone needs to learn where much of their food comes from. I know that having a large garden also allows me to sympathize with area producers who are struggling through a tough summer and have a lot more at stake than a few rows of peas, beans and potatoes.
And if things aren't unpredictable enough between the ongoing pandemic and unusual weather, it seems another obstacle is about to be thrown our way. Photos of long lineups at gas stations were being shared online Sunday, as motorists anticipate a spike in gas prices.
It seems as though just as people are able to travel and enjoy a bit more freedom, the financial cost to do so increases. A week or so ago, my husband and I discussed a possible trip to Calgary this summer, but for now we will wait and see what other unpredictability is coming our way.
