Ripe thimbleberries, Rubus parviflorus, prove that summer is here. A berry you won’t find in stores, these berries are too fragile to pick and ship. Once ripe, they only last a day or so. To enjoy them, you need to grow them or find somewhere where they grow.

The Shasta daisies are another sign that summer is here. Summer in north Puget sound, cool, chilly nights and warm, sunny days. As close to heaven as you can get.