In Canada, it's the Thanksgiving long weekend, which happily coincides with so much of our harvest time. An uncharacteristically warm, autumn day was lovely for picking apples at a local orchard.




I don't have my parents any longer, my dad having passed away six years ago and my mom this past spring, but I was happy to be able to spend time with friends and family this weekend. Apple torte was my contribution to the turkey dinner with my brother, sister-in-law and ten others.






Another dinner, this one with friends, provided a good excuse to bake lemon meringue pies.


After two days of large dinners and plenty of desserts, all I crave this afternoon is a cup of mint tea, possibly with an apple, but possibly not even that!

Partially hidden among the leaves, but still catching some early rays of sunlight, is my first coneflower bloom of the season. This blog is a bit like the flower.



My Little Home and Garden was almost hidden, among so many, but was given some light -a closer look- by Cozy Little House. 



Being one of the featured blogs there this week has "pollinated" this spot. So many of Cozy's friends have come to visit. I am grateful.



Today, I made a lovely, unexpected discovery. The beautiful Lavender Cottage has kindly mentioned this blog and suggested her readers pop by to take a peek. More "pollination". More gratitude.

I am overwhelmed by the kindness of the women who write the aforementioned two blogs. One American, one Canadian. Both so neighbourly.

Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia

It's my country's birthday today. I feel like I've received the gifts. Happy Canada Day, wherever in the world you call home. I hope you'll come again.