As the days begin to shorten, we are certainly reluctant to say good-bye to the summer sun. We have baked most of the summer but it sure beats shovelling snow. Although the shovels sit there waiting, we have the glorious autumn colours on the horizon and that is always such a quiet peaceful time of the year.

Gardens seem to be lagging due to the cold, wet spring but many of us are harvesting cucumbers, beans, and the beginning of tomatoes. One of my little dogs is obsessed with beans and sits by the gate watching me moving towards the bean patch in my front yard.

About three years ago, I was tired of needles and cones so I had one of those ridiculously tall spruce trees removed from my front yard where it consumed half the frontage. In that space there are now two large raised garden boxes which are a joy for gardeners who hate bending over at ground level. This year, I removed the last of my front yard grass and installed more patio blocks as well as an area for tomatoes. The plants are joyous in the never-ending sun!

If you love tomatoes, try a variety called Super Steak. They are huge! One slice more than covers a piece of toast. There is another variety called Candyland Red which has hundreds of tiny tomatoes that look like berries but grow in clusters like grapes and have a wonderful flavour. I’ve added a recipe for salsa that is one of the best I’ve tried. With some of the really great tasting watermelons we’re seeing this year, try the Watermelon Orzo salad recipe I’ve also added. Of course, gardens are not gardens without a healthy infusion of flowers. Did you ever notice how your mood lightens and your stress lessens when you’re surrounded by the blooms and fragrances of flowers? Whenever I visit another city, the first place I visit is the botanical garden.

Have you ever travelled to Dauphin, Manitoba? I found the community to be exceptionally friendly with dozens of welcoming flower pots decorated with ribbons for the National Ukrainian Festival. There is a unique wine-tasting brewery/bar called Obsolete that is winning awards for their wine. Across the street is a super bakery with marvellous beet buns. Returning home with my companions, we drove through Churchbridge and Esterhazy, both winners of Cities in Bloom, and then followed the Qu’Appelle Valley which is a relaxing and picturesque drive in any season.

Enjoy your garden harvests, everyone, and, if you don’t have a garden, go and visit the Farmers’ Market on Saturdays. Fresh produce is ample. Happy tasting!

Faithe Sovdi – Superannuated Teacher, founding member of River Street Potters - A Community of Potters

I started learning to play with clay around 2007. Pottery quickly became my new hobby. I can throw with the wheel or hand build and do sculptures (my fav). Working with clay was full of surprises; the biggest surprise was the mental health benefits!

It took me a few years to slow down after I retired, I created and ran a program for children called ‘Something from Nothing’. I designed it around the philosophy of the Circle of Courage. Children and adults both can benefit from the positive nature of creating! Just over 2.5 years ago I decided to open a pottery studio! Three other potters joined me (my daughter Mel, Shannan Taylor, and Dianne Newman) and we called our studio River Street Potters.

Here I create and teach others, building their self-confidence with the art of pottery. Anyone can request a class if they have at least 4 people Dianne and I, both teach. Retirement has been good for me. If you ever run across a piece, my pottery is always signed Sis with a heart or two. Currently, the Yvette Moore Art Gallery carries my work!

I can always be reached on FB messenger or by email fsovdi@gmail.com.

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Sonja’s Sizzling September Recipes

Sonja has contributed 5 new recipes to our recipe section on the website. These recipes make use of lots of produce available at this time of year, and would make a perfect menu for a between-the-seasons dinner party! Have a recipe to share? Click here or click on the image below.

• Baked Honey Salmon

• Creamed Corn to freeze — “it’s so darn good!”

• Pesto

• Salsa

• Watermelon Orzo Feta Salad

Cargo Meets Comfort: Untouched Paradise Aboard the Aranui V

Imagine setting sail on a journey that blends the adventure of a cruise with the immersive experience of a cargo ship. The Aranui V offers just that—an unforgettable voyage through the remote islands of the South Pacific. This unique ship, part freighter and part passenger vessel, brings you to the heart of French Polynesia’s most secluded and pristine locales, including the enchanting Marquesas Islands.

Aranui Zoom Travel Presentation

Happening: Monday, September 9

Info at: destinationwhatver.com/aranui

Looking for an adventure that’s off the beaten path? The Aranui V is more than just a cruise—it’s a unique voyage aboard a working cargo ship that brings you face-to-face with the rich culture and untamed beauty of the South Pacific.

As you explore the remote Marquesas Islands, you’ll witness daily life as it unfolds, from vibrant local markets to ancient archaeological sites. Immerse yourself in the traditions of the Polynesian people, all while enjoying a comfortable on board lifestyle.

This is soft adventure at its finest, perfect for curious travellers who crave authentic experiences and a deeper connection with the places they visit. Ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime?

Curious to learn more? Join my FREE Zoom Info Session and get all the details about this incredible voyage. Plus, special promotions are now available exclusively for Canadian travellers! Don’t miss out on this golden opportunity to explore the remote beauty of the South Pacific.

Date: Monday, September 9 - 530pm Mountain time zone

RSVP Now: destinationwhatever.com/aranui