May can be unpredictable. In my head, it always feels like the unofficial start of summer, but more often than not, the weather reminds me that it's still spring... or even (yikes!) late winter.

This year, though, I truly enjoyed May. Perhaps I'm growing a little, as I started the month with an outlook that embraced uncertainty. We had a stretch of warmer-than-usual days that pushed new growth and early blooms. Then the weather turned chilly and rainy. But since May is a big planting month for me, I actually welcomed the rain. It brought so much joy. And the cooler days served as a gentle reminder to slow down.

Right now, the peonies are in full bloom, the tomatoes are taking off, I'm harvesting lettuce daily, and the allium are still hanging on! (In fact, I wrote a post all about different types of allium because I get so many questions about them!)

It's just the beginning of a season full of abundance, but this time of year can feel overwhelming. In fact, most of the growing season can. I've definitely had moments when I felt behind. But this year, I'm approaching it differently. Not everything on my garden to-do list needs to happen. Instead, I'm focusing on enjoying and appreciating what I can do.

I hope this newsletter finds you in a good place to relax and enjoy some time together.

Calling all Christmas cookie bakers!

2025 will mark the fourth edition of my holiday magazine, and what an incredible journey it's been! I never imagined what this would turn into when I created the first issue. You've welcomed the magazine into your homes, and many of you have told me it's become a treasured part of your holiday season. I've seen your photos of it on coffee tables, tucked into kitchens, and surrounded by family baking traditions.

This year, I want to do something new: I'm planning to feature 10 holiday cookie, bar, or candy recipes from you! Think of it as a virtual cookie swap!

If you have a beloved holiday treat that your family makes every year, and you'd like to share it, I'd love to read it. I'll review the submissions and select 10 to test. Recipes may be adjusted slightly as needed, and if yours is selected, I'll send you a copy of the magazine for free when it's printed (in October 2025). I'd also love to include a note about why the recipe is special to you.

To submit your recipe, simply fill out the form at this link, which includes a space for your name, ingredients, instructions, and why you love the recipe.

I can't wait to hear about your traditions and read through your recipes!

Let's talk about some food.

Last week, I shared some of my favorite Memorial Day recipes, and it was so fun seeing you make them! I hope you had a great long weekend!

Those dishes are true summer staples and ones that I'll be making throughout the month of June, too. More recipes are on the way (chicken tacos, quick pickled radishes, a new tequila cocktail, potato salad, and more), so stay tuned for those this coming month!

Here are some recipes already up on the site that are perfect for June's summer-like weather:

• ​Grilled cabbage salad - such a good one that I had on repeat last year!
• ​Watermelon salad​
• ​Fruit pizza​
• ​BBQ chicken sandwiches​
• ​Chicken zucchini meatballs​
• ​Strawberry crumb bars​
• ​Grilled pork burgers​
• ​Grandma's homemade baked beans​
• ​Spicy margarita - you know it's my all-time favorite drink!

Let's talk about Kip.

Kip has been very persistent about being outside lately. If I stay indoors too long, he'll walk over to the garage door and give me a look that says, "Well?" And to be honest, it doesn't take much convincing to get me out there. Unless it's super windy outside, I can't help but spend the majority of the day working/dreaming in the garden.

This month, Kip had a small growth pop up near one of his front paw nails. I noticed it a few weeks ago because it looked bright red and inflamed. My vet took a sample to check for anything concerning, including cancer, which thankfully came back negative. After 10 days on antibiotics and a few rounds of Epsom salt soaks (which Kip strongly dislikes), the growth is still there, but less irritated. We’ll see how the next month goes, but I’m hopeful it continues to fade.

This growth on his paw hasn't kept Kip from running, rolling in the grass, and sniffing his way across the farm. He often brings me a frisbee or a stick while I'm out working in the garden. I know the heat of summer will soon keep him inside during the hottest parts of the day, but until then, he's soaking up every minute outdoors.

I'm so excited to enter the official month when summer begins, and I hope you are, too! Until we chat again, take care and enjoy each day!