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My Dearest Friends and Neighbors,

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A cheery wave from just down the lane, where the sun is warming the tops of the bean poles and the robins are singing their hearts out!

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At long last, the golden days of summer are upon us, and I’ve been out in the garden, planting and planning with a glad heart. There’s such comfort in tucking seeds into soft earth, whispering a wish or two, and watching the green shoots stretch skyward. I daresay, the season is shaping up to be a fine one!

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Lately, I’ve taken great pleasure not only in the planting but in mending my old garden tools. Why run out and buy new when a bit of oil, twine, or careful hammering will bring the old spade back to life? There’s something deeply satisfying about repairing a favorite trowel or patching a worn apron. It makes the work feel all the more meaningful, as if the tools themselves remember seasons past and are glad to be useful once again.

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We hobbits, as you well know, are fond of such humble labors—digging, strolling, and breathing in the sweet scents of wildflowers and warm soil. The air is full of birdsong, the bees are buzzing from blossom to blossom, and somewhere in the distance, children’s laughter carries on the breeze. These are the riches of our days.

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So let us raise a mug to summer’s blessings! To thriving gardens, merry walks, and the quiet joys of making do. May we cross paths soon, with sun on our shoulders and tales to share.

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Yours in good cheer,

Bill-Bob Baggins