I cannot get enough of that sweet sunshine and soon it will be time for her to retire way before bedtime. Even though she adores us with her brilliant rays most days of the year here in the American Riviera, how melancholic she leaves me feeling when she departs fashionably early.

Extend those rays awhile longer with fruits of summer. Avocado is popular in our nest and sometimes my little sprouts can’t wait for the homemade guacamole that I whip up in minutes. They need it NOW! So what does a mother who doesn’t want her darlings to distress do? Simply slice it in half, (save the pit for future planting), squeeze lemon and then sprinkle with rock salt. Hand over the spoon and voila the famished little ones have their appetizers. The thick skin of the avocado makes for an ideal bowl and I am just as content that I do not need to clean a plate—just compost it.

Let the fun and sun linger in your nest for many more days. Have a backyard soiree and celebrate the fruits and vegetables grown from your proud patch—nothing like mouth-watering August tomatoes dripping down your chin. Tired of zucchini bread and have left generous shares of zucchini on the doorsteps of neighbors? Try shredding it on top of a bowl of chickpeas and feta. Don’t forget those juicy lemons that I love to squeeze on everything. What balsamic is to Modena; lemon is to our nest.

Stash a few blankets and lounge chairs and a bottle of your favorite wine or two and enjoy gazing at the summer night stars with family and friends. Summon everyone over to your nest for the light show August 11th—just in time for harvesting those tomatoes. Remember to turn off all lights and if your nest is far from city lights your dim (dark doesn’t occur anymore thanks to the light pollution) night sky will be the most ideal for viewing of the Meteor showers.

Make your own “get-a-way” this summer in your nest and don’t let those long summer nights escape you! Lie back and enjoy the show that Mother Nature has in store. Meteors will instantly grab your attention as they streak by above your nest. Don’t forget to make a wish!