Plentiful Bounty

   Rhubarb cake last week and a rhubarb crumble today - maybe it's time for a batch of jam. I usually wait until the local strawberries are ready as I like the combination, but the rhubarb is coming on gangbusters.

   A bit cooler today so no swim, and we had heavy rain this afternoon. The garden benefitted from a good soaking. Luckily I had cut the grass yesterday as it will be growing like crazy again.

A Sad Affair

   One more pool entry and then I will cease and desist form mentioning how fortunate I am to be able to cool off in it!

   After yesterday's brief dip I had a longer swim today as the temperature of the water is almost 70F. However, first thing this morning I had a nasty shock as there was a dead animal floating in it when I got up! I have had the odd mouse, bird or squirrel meet its maker in the pristine waters but this one was big!

   It turned out to be a raccoon and, being a bit squeamish, I decided to elicit help in removing it. I called 311 (the City help line) but they said animal services would not come on to my property to remove it. Then I called a Wildlife service I have used in the past (squirrels and raccoons in the attic ) but they wanted $300 to come and remove it. So back to City Services and they agreed to pick it up if it was on my boulevard, which is actually city property. 

   So I gritted my teeth, took a shovel and a pail and managed to remove it myself. It was a gruesome affair and I actually felt some pity for the poor animal. Soon it will be picked up and out of my mind and responsibility. I hope that's the last one I have to deal with!

If it's not one thing.......

   The pool is up and running (I had a short dip this afternoon, cold but refreshing) but the pool guys left a note saying that they couldn't get the heater started - so, another unplanned-for repair bill. There have been way too many of these this year!

   The air conditioner has just come on for the first time this year so at least that's working. Another lovely sunny day and not as humid. I should sleep well tonight.

Almost there!

   Pool's open and filling as we speak. It's still a bit green but that will improve overnight. I'm hoping for the promised thunderstorm to help with filling it, otherwise it will just be the garden hose and that takes several hours. The temperature is a chilly 62F!

Colourful Wigelia bush.