Signs of Indian Summer

In New England, Indian Summer is the time after the first frost, when the sky is bright blue, apples hang on the trees, and the days are warm and glorious. Here in the Pacific Northwest, the signs are more subtle—we do not have a killing frost until late October, if then—but the delicate shift is season, and the deep longing to hang onto the last golden rays of the sun are the same. These are the signs.

·        Powdery mildew on the zucchini.

·        Smoky air from distant fires.

·        Blankets at night.

·        Too much fruit!

·        Eggplant. Tomatoes. Corn. Green beans.

·        Young chicken eggs.

·        Kayli, the furry beast, NEVER comes in.

·        The fennel in the front yard needs to be tied up, away from the sidewalk.

·        Flan for breakfast (this is related to the eggs…).

·        Huge Harvest moon.

·        Art Retreats.

·        Chai is tempting.

·        Bees are very honey turfy.

·        Our reading nook looks appealing.

·        Hot in the middle of the day, cool in the evening.

·        School starts.

Indian Summer Fritatta , perfect for a group dinner or full moon watching

3 cups of blue potatoes, cubed and boiled. Use the tiny ones!

2 cups of small tomatoes

Large handful of feta cheese

6 basil leaves, chopped

6-8 eggs, beaten with pepper and garlic

Layer tomatoes and potatoes in a baking pan, add cheese and basil, pour the ggs over all. Stir to settle and bake in 350 degree oven until the eggs are set, about 40 minutes. This can be eaten warm or room temperature but it is not good cold. The colors are lovely!