Communing with nature

One aspect of summer that I enjoy most is having the sliding doors open onto the balcony. Even though I live in a residential area I can enjoy enjoy nature all around me. While watering the plants on the balcony I was aware of our interdependence. They depend on me for water and nourishment and I depend on them for the oxygen I breathe. I celebrate their growth remembering that many of those plants were just cuttings when I received them. I am also aware of the numberless shades of green in the plant life. I am aware of the coolness that the trees provide as they cast their shade over my home. I hear the birds singing in the many trees that line my street. I recall that there were many more songbirds when I was young and I wonder about the change. I sometimes forget to take time to appreciate the gifts that the Universe sends and it only costs the time I spend in awareness. It brings with it a sense of peace and tranquility in an otherwise busy day. What do you appreciate about this time of year?