The recent days have been extremely hot and dry, after a cool break in late August. Summer in Virginia is dependably hot and humid, and this week has certainly been a good reminder in case you’ve forgotten! It’s been 8 weeks since we started this adventure at Prospect Hill, and Terenée and I are amazed by how fast time’s passed. We learn new quirks about this beautiful inn and its grounds every day…some quite challenging…some weirdly therapeutic, but all a joy. We’re fascinated by how the grounds change around us almost daily.
This is a new space, a new garden to cultivate, and we make notes nearly every day. What we can keep, what we should change, and how we want the garden spaces to feel next year. I have spring bulbs ordered…quite a few. I admit, I may have over- indulged, but it’s all a part of the adventure. I could argue that I did it for my well-being! I struggle in the depths of winter. The cold doesn’t bother me, but the loss of daylight is always an issue for me. Small increments initially, the it bears down on me fully by December. We’ve learned that well placed winter and early spring blooming bulbs and plants not only create a beautiful surprise, but give me hope that there is light at the end of each winter!
Coming Up:
September weather cools slowly and by month end the fading light is crisp and clear, and the temperature cool enough for pleasant late afternoon and evening relaxation outdoors. The gardens are tired and ready for the coming break. The earliest of leaves may start turning, but it is only the opening act for the beauty to come.
October is wine month in Virginia. It’s the perfect time to visit one, or all, of the nearly 40 wineries within 30 minutes of Prospect Hill. Self-directed or curated, a wine tour is an excellent way to experience all of the exceptional wines produced here.
October is prime leaf peeping month. The Fall Foliage forecast predicts the 3rd week of October to be magnificent and Prospect Hill is an excellent home base for enjoying all Virginia has to offer. Come, be our guest!
November is the start of the holiday season. Terenée and I are playing with the idea of a Thanksgiving Feast for Inn guests. We think it might be fun to gather folks together to celebrate all we are thankful for, enjoy each other’s company, and some really good food!
The plan was to post a note at the start of each month, but it’s always hard to start something new. Maybe next month I’ll get it done earlier!
– Jim