Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for the long road.
There are no shortcuts to any place worth going... ~Beverly Sills
One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things. ~Henry Miller
For me, things may be simple but never easy. I always take the long way around, my preferred path in life. Shortcuts are rarely part of my recipes or travel itineraries. I'm afraid that I'll miss too much if I cut short my journey. I've learned to pay my dues and move on.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Tuesday, 30 May 2006 - The bluest blues
Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for the bluest blues that brighten my spring garden (and I'm not talking about Paul Newman's baby blues). Of these, the hardy blue flax, Linum lewisii 'Appar', dazzles my eyes with its prolific and scintillating blooms.
Nature always wears the colors of the spirit. ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Monday, May 29, 2006
Monday, 29 May 2006 - Memorial Day
Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for the men and women who died in the defense of the freedoms and choices I enjoy and usually take for granted. I hope that the fruits of my life will prove that they did not die in vain.
Spirit, that made those heroes dare
To die, and leave their children free,
Bid Time and Nature gently spare
The shaft we raise to them and thee.
~Ralph Waldo Emerson
They hover as a cloud of witnesses above this Nation.
~Henry Ward Beecher
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Today, I am thankful for the men and women who died in the defense of the freedoms and choices I enjoy and usually take for granted. I hope that the fruits of my life will prove that they did not die in vain.
Spirit, that made those heroes dare
To die, and leave their children free,
Bid Time and Nature gently spare
The shaft we raise to them and thee.
~Ralph Waldo Emerson
They hover as a cloud of witnesses above this Nation.
~Henry Ward Beecher
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Sunday, May 28, 2006
Sunday, 28 May 2006 - A wake up call
Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for a wake up call to move on with my life.
Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbour. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover. ~Mark Twain
I sensed it all week. I felt it when I worked in the garden each evening. And, I heard it at church this morning. Jesus tugged on my heart as he whispered in my ear, "Tag, you're it."
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Today, I am thankful for a wake up call to move on with my life.
Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbour. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover. ~Mark Twain
I sensed it all week. I felt it when I worked in the garden each evening. And, I heard it at church this morning. Jesus tugged on my heart as he whispered in my ear, "Tag, you're it."
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Saturday, 27 May 2006 - Blank canvas
Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for a blank "canvas" on which to plant a garden.
It's not what you look at that matters, it's what you see. ~ Henry David Thoreau
The photo shows part of the backyard - the land that challenges me to plant and grow a garden. After looking at the area, another person might give up and hire a professional to landscape the area.
But, not me.
In my mind's eye, I see this arid parcel transformed into a bit of Colorado paradise - my own piece of earth alive with shrubs, flowers, birds and butterflies. It will take lots of work, but I'm up for it.
Lucky me. The job is mine.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Today, I am thankful for a blank "canvas" on which to plant a garden.
It's not what you look at that matters, it's what you see. ~ Henry David Thoreau
The photo shows part of the backyard - the land that challenges me to plant and grow a garden. After looking at the area, another person might give up and hire a professional to landscape the area.
But, not me.
In my mind's eye, I see this arid parcel transformed into a bit of Colorado paradise - my own piece of earth alive with shrubs, flowers, birds and butterflies. It will take lots of work, but I'm up for it.
Lucky me. The job is mine.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Friday, May 26, 2006
Friday, 26 May 2006 - Growth
Dear God:Today, I am thankful for growth in my garden, in myself.
(The photos show my garden from April 18 to May 1 to May 26.)
For these blessings, I am grateful. Amen.
Thursday, May 25, 2006
Thursday, 25 May 2006 - Trusty hand trowel
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Wednesday, 24 May 2006 - Great teachers
Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for great teachers.
The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires. ~William Arthur Ward
While attending Dominic's promotion ceremony this afternoon, I thought about the elementary school teachers who inspired me to be a better person.
Mrs. Pankinin (kindergarten) - One afternoon, after she finished reading a book to the class, I told her and my classmates that I could read the book. My remark caught her off-guard. She recovered quickly, however. She must have realized that I wasn't bragging. I was simply stating a fact. After a brief pause, she handed me the book. I immediately re-read it aloud to the class. Mrs. Pankinin never said a word to me about the event, saving me any embarrassment from my unconventional act. I later learned that she reported her surprise and delight to my mother. My love of books and reading has never waned.
Mrs. Thompson (1st grade) - By the time I entered 1st grade, I was reading at the 6th grade level. Mrs. Thompson had the wisdom and courage to put me in my own reading group so I could progress at my own speed. From her, I learned the importance of treating children as individuals.
Mrs. Geminder (2nd grade) - She was young, energetic and "with it." She inspired my decision to become a teacher.
Mrs. Wright (3rd grade) - She recognized my creativity and helped me expand my repertoire. A few days each week, she gave me permission to work with first graders - I usually read books to them. From Mrs. Wright, I learned the importance of meeting each student's needs. Even the best students need personal attention and help meeting their special challenges.
Mrs. Hughes (4th grade) - One day, the boys were naughty and accused the girls of participating in the prank. Mrs. Hughes was annoyed and would not listen to my explanation of the situation. She simply remarked, "that's the way the cookie crumbles" (I think of her and cringe when I hear that phrase). Needless to say, she punished the entire class. I vowed not be be another Mrs. Hughes. At age 10, I already knew that lessons about honesty, fairness and justice were just as important as our reading and math assignments.
Mr. Thietje (5th grade) - His grammar assignments involved diagramming hundreds of sentences including the Pledge of Allegiance. I immediately understood and appreciated the structure of the English language. Because of him, I decided to become an English teacher.
Mr. Canary (6th grade) - He shared his love of classical music with us. Every Friday, we listened to Gilbert & Sullivan operettas. The result: the birth of one more opera lover - me!
Mr. Dimoff (6th grade - math) - He taught the advanced class and always emphasized math's practical applications. For example, he taught us probability from the Los Angeles Times horse racing summaries. My love of math grew from his classes.
For these blessings, I am grateful.
Amen.
Today, I am thankful for great teachers.
The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires. ~William Arthur Ward
While attending Dominic's promotion ceremony this afternoon, I thought about the elementary school teachers who inspired me to be a better person.
Mrs. Pankinin (kindergarten) - One afternoon, after she finished reading a book to the class, I told her and my classmates that I could read the book. My remark caught her off-guard. She recovered quickly, however. She must have realized that I wasn't bragging. I was simply stating a fact. After a brief pause, she handed me the book. I immediately re-read it aloud to the class. Mrs. Pankinin never said a word to me about the event, saving me any embarrassment from my unconventional act. I later learned that she reported her surprise and delight to my mother. My love of books and reading has never waned.
Mrs. Thompson (1st grade) - By the time I entered 1st grade, I was reading at the 6th grade level. Mrs. Thompson had the wisdom and courage to put me in my own reading group so I could progress at my own speed. From her, I learned the importance of treating children as individuals.
Mrs. Geminder (2nd grade) - She was young, energetic and "with it." She inspired my decision to become a teacher.
Mrs. Wright (3rd grade) - She recognized my creativity and helped me expand my repertoire. A few days each week, she gave me permission to work with first graders - I usually read books to them. From Mrs. Wright, I learned the importance of meeting each student's needs. Even the best students need personal attention and help meeting their special challenges.
Mrs. Hughes (4th grade) - One day, the boys were naughty and accused the girls of participating in the prank. Mrs. Hughes was annoyed and would not listen to my explanation of the situation. She simply remarked, "that's the way the cookie crumbles" (I think of her and cringe when I hear that phrase). Needless to say, she punished the entire class. I vowed not be be another Mrs. Hughes. At age 10, I already knew that lessons about honesty, fairness and justice were just as important as our reading and math assignments.
Mr. Thietje (5th grade) - His grammar assignments involved diagramming hundreds of sentences including the Pledge of Allegiance. I immediately understood and appreciated the structure of the English language. Because of him, I decided to become an English teacher.
Mr. Canary (6th grade) - He shared his love of classical music with us. Every Friday, we listened to Gilbert & Sullivan operettas. The result: the birth of one more opera lover - me!
Mr. Dimoff (6th grade - math) - He taught the advanced class and always emphasized math's practical applications. For example, he taught us probability from the Los Angeles Times horse racing summaries. My love of math grew from his classes.
For these blessings, I am grateful.
Amen.
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
Tuesday, 23 May 2006 - Earthworms
Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for earthworms. They give me hope each time I find them in the heavy clay soil that graces our yard.
I've learned that Mother Nature can solve any garden problem given enough time, adequate water, plenty of sunshine and a few earthworms to work the soil.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Today, I am thankful for earthworms. They give me hope each time I find them in the heavy clay soil that graces our yard.
I've learned that Mother Nature can solve any garden problem given enough time, adequate water, plenty of sunshine and a few earthworms to work the soil.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Monday, May 22, 2006
Monday, 22 May 2006 - Rollerblades for Dominic
Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for rollerblades for Dominic.
Boy, n.: a noise with dirt on it. ~Not Your Average Dictionary
What is a home without children? Quiet. ~Henny Youngman
Last winter, I bought a pair of heavy duty Bauer hockey rollerblades from one of my favorite Ebay sellers. Although she paid over $250 for them, she used them infrequently on the Virginia Beach boardwalk. Since I was one of her "favorite" customers, she sold them to me for $5. Shipping was minimal since I bought several items from her at the time. I told her that I was buying them to give to one of the boys in the neighborhood.
I think that I knew in my heart that the skates were for Dominic - the 5th grader with the no-holds-barred attitude and booming voice who lives down the street. He's an amazing young man - smart, athletic and a true leader. He visits us often and dearly loves T, our chocolate Lab.
The skates were too big for him last year so I delayed giving them away. A few weeks ago, I noticed that Dominic had grown taller and brawnier. So, when he told me that his shoe size was around an 8, I knew it was time to give him the skates.
A timely decision on my part. Rumor has it that Dominic and those skates are inseparable.
My reward - a personally-delivered, hand-written invitation to Wednesday's ceremony that will mark his promotion from elementary to middle school. I plan to attend.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Today, I am thankful for rollerblades for Dominic.
Boy, n.: a noise with dirt on it. ~Not Your Average Dictionary
What is a home without children? Quiet. ~Henny Youngman
Last winter, I bought a pair of heavy duty Bauer hockey rollerblades from one of my favorite Ebay sellers. Although she paid over $250 for them, she used them infrequently on the Virginia Beach boardwalk. Since I was one of her "favorite" customers, she sold them to me for $5. Shipping was minimal since I bought several items from her at the time. I told her that I was buying them to give to one of the boys in the neighborhood.
I think that I knew in my heart that the skates were for Dominic - the 5th grader with the no-holds-barred attitude and booming voice who lives down the street. He's an amazing young man - smart, athletic and a true leader. He visits us often and dearly loves T, our chocolate Lab.
The skates were too big for him last year so I delayed giving them away. A few weeks ago, I noticed that Dominic had grown taller and brawnier. So, when he told me that his shoe size was around an 8, I knew it was time to give him the skates.
A timely decision on my part. Rumor has it that Dominic and those skates are inseparable.
My reward - a personally-delivered, hand-written invitation to Wednesday's ceremony that will mark his promotion from elementary to middle school. I plan to attend.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Sunday, May 21, 2006
Sunday, 21 May 2006 - Another load of plants
Dear God
Today, I am thankful for another load of plants.
Gardening is about enjoying the smell of things growing in the soil, getting dirty without feeling guilty, and generally taking the time to soak up a little peace and serenity. ~Lindley Karstens, noproblemgarden.com
I went overboard at the Horticultural Art Society's member's only plant sale. One of the expert gardeners helped me select dozens of shrubs, perennials and ground covers. So much for my short list. My botanic treasures now sit near the potting table, carefully watered and patiently awaiting my decision on their locations in my gardens.
After I receive the final two shipments from High Country Gardens, I will have enough plants to fill the bare spots in the front yard and begin landscaping the back. No impulse buys at the local garden shops this year.
Tonight, I'm praying for cool mornings and evenings and a strong back so I can finish the work before summer officially begins.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Today, I am thankful for another load of plants.
Gardening is about enjoying the smell of things growing in the soil, getting dirty without feeling guilty, and generally taking the time to soak up a little peace and serenity. ~Lindley Karstens, noproblemgarden.com
I went overboard at the Horticultural Art Society's member's only plant sale. One of the expert gardeners helped me select dozens of shrubs, perennials and ground covers. So much for my short list. My botanic treasures now sit near the potting table, carefully watered and patiently awaiting my decision on their locations in my gardens.
After I receive the final two shipments from High Country Gardens, I will have enough plants to fill the bare spots in the front yard and begin landscaping the back. No impulse buys at the local garden shops this year.
Tonight, I'm praying for cool mornings and evenings and a strong back so I can finish the work before summer officially begins.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Saturday, May 20, 2006
Saturday, 20 May 2006 - One out-of-place Columbine
Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for one out-of-place Columbine.
Pluck not the wayside flower;
It is the traveler's dower.
~William Allingham
Despite the gardener's best intentions, Nature will improvise. ~Michael P. Garafalo
Our neighbor, Hayden, noticed it first. A Columbine plant with two lovely blooms growing in the seam between the sidewalk and curb in front of Bill's house. We look for more but find only dandelions and wild violets.
Where in the world did it come from? Possible a seed that traveled from my backyard to the sidewalk since I grow Columbines in my garden. But, I thought they preferred shade and moisture!
We stand around the Columbine, admiring its beauty and praising its strength to grow in such an inhospitable spot.
As usual, there's a lesson here. Yes, the wind is singing to me, "Bloom where you are planted."
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Friday, May 19, 2006
Friday, 19 May 2006 - Bears in the neighborhood
Dear God
Today, I am thankful for bears in the neighborhood.
If all the beasts were gone, men would die from a great loneliness of spirit, for whatever happens to the beasts also happens to the man. All things are connected. Whatever befalls the Earth befalls the sons of the Earth. ~Chief Seattle of the Suwamish Tribe, letter to President Franklin Pierce
One tried to climb our fence late last night and ended up tearing down the gate and one 5 foot section. Fortunately, T, our chocolate Labrador retriever, didn't see the damage this morning while I watered the plants. If he had, he would have escaped the yard and panicked his parents.
S and I propped up the fallen fence and tacked chicken wire along the opening (just in case). We'll install a new gate and rebuild the broken section. No harm, no foul. Dominic reported that a mother bear and her cub explored his family's trash bin last night.
The deer, coyotes, rabbits, raccoons, bears, foxes, mountain lions, owls, snakes and other wildlife that visit our neighborhood remind me that we live in the mountains and must tolerate their "trespasses." We humans, after all, are the real intruders.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Today, I am thankful for bears in the neighborhood.
If all the beasts were gone, men would die from a great loneliness of spirit, for whatever happens to the beasts also happens to the man. All things are connected. Whatever befalls the Earth befalls the sons of the Earth. ~Chief Seattle of the Suwamish Tribe, letter to President Franklin Pierce
One tried to climb our fence late last night and ended up tearing down the gate and one 5 foot section. Fortunately, T, our chocolate Labrador retriever, didn't see the damage this morning while I watered the plants. If he had, he would have escaped the yard and panicked his parents.
S and I propped up the fallen fence and tacked chicken wire along the opening (just in case). We'll install a new gate and rebuild the broken section. No harm, no foul. Dominic reported that a mother bear and her cub explored his family's trash bin last night.
The deer, coyotes, rabbits, raccoons, bears, foxes, mountain lions, owls, snakes and other wildlife that visit our neighborhood remind me that we live in the mountains and must tolerate their "trespasses." We humans, after all, are the real intruders.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Thursday, May 18, 2006
Thursday, 18 May 2006 - Neighbors, gardens and good conversation
Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for neighbors, gardens and good conversation.
The best kind of friend is the one you could sit on a porch with, never saying a word, and walk away feeling like that was the best conversation you've had. ~Author Unknown
When I work in the front yard garden, a neighbor or two will stop by to chat and pet T, our chocolate Labrador retriever. Early this evening, I caught up with Bill (our next door neighbor for over 19 years and just about the only person on the block who shares our liberal political beliefs) and Sherry (our newest neighbor who moved here from Portland, OR).
Everyone, it seems, is interested in my garden's health and success. After all, I am the "radical" who dug up her front lawn to plant a xeriscape garden. Fortunately, my plants are thriving and beginning to bloom.
Sherry reminds me that it's time to plan a Memorial Day block party (an activity that usually falls on my shoulders). My reputation as the party organizer remains intact.
For these blessings, I am grateful.
Amen.
Today, I am thankful for neighbors, gardens and good conversation.
The best kind of friend is the one you could sit on a porch with, never saying a word, and walk away feeling like that was the best conversation you've had. ~Author Unknown
When I work in the front yard garden, a neighbor or two will stop by to chat and pet T, our chocolate Labrador retriever. Early this evening, I caught up with Bill (our next door neighbor for over 19 years and just about the only person on the block who shares our liberal political beliefs) and Sherry (our newest neighbor who moved here from Portland, OR).
Everyone, it seems, is interested in my garden's health and success. After all, I am the "radical" who dug up her front lawn to plant a xeriscape garden. Fortunately, my plants are thriving and beginning to bloom.
Sherry reminds me that it's time to plan a Memorial Day block party (an activity that usually falls on my shoulders). My reputation as the party organizer remains intact.
For these blessings, I am grateful.
Amen.
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
Wednesday, 17 May 2006 - New roots
Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for new roots.
How hard it is to escape from places. However carefully one goes they hold you - you leave little bits of yourself fluttering on the fences - like rags and shreds of your very life. ~Katherine Mansfield
I've resisted putting down new roots in Colorado, thinking that we would soon move to another state or country. Yet, here I am, attending a church I like, joining a horticultural art club and looking for a volunteer opportunity that will sustain me for the next few months.
Still, the roots are young and fragile - not yet established. If they survive the hot, dry summers and the coldest winters of my life, perhaps we'll remain in this house, in this city for a few more years.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Today, I am thankful for new roots.
How hard it is to escape from places. However carefully one goes they hold you - you leave little bits of yourself fluttering on the fences - like rags and shreds of your very life. ~Katherine Mansfield
I've resisted putting down new roots in Colorado, thinking that we would soon move to another state or country. Yet, here I am, attending a church I like, joining a horticultural art club and looking for a volunteer opportunity that will sustain me for the next few months.
Still, the roots are young and fragile - not yet established. If they survive the hot, dry summers and the coldest winters of my life, perhaps we'll remain in this house, in this city for a few more years.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
Tuesday, 16 May 2006 - A change in weather
Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for a change in weather.
This month, we suddenly leapt from winter to summer (it snowed last week yet today the temperature will near 80 degrees Fahrenheit). In the process, we missed the wet and slushy spring storms that water our gardens and reduce the chance of forest fires. Although I welcome the summer-like weather (cool mornings, hot and dry afternoons, cool evenings), I bemoan the lack of rain.
With the threat of another hard frost statistically behind us, I am ready to begin landscaping the back yard with various shrubs and groundcovers. I ordered several plants from High Country Gardens. The shrubs should arrive Thursday while the xeric perennials are due after Memorial Day. I've already ordered bulbs for fall planting - lots of deer-resistant allium and daffodils for the front yard.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Today, I am thankful for a change in weather.
This month, we suddenly leapt from winter to summer (it snowed last week yet today the temperature will near 80 degrees Fahrenheit). In the process, we missed the wet and slushy spring storms that water our gardens and reduce the chance of forest fires. Although I welcome the summer-like weather (cool mornings, hot and dry afternoons, cool evenings), I bemoan the lack of rain.
With the threat of another hard frost statistically behind us, I am ready to begin landscaping the back yard with various shrubs and groundcovers. I ordered several plants from High Country Gardens. The shrubs should arrive Thursday while the xeric perennials are due after Memorial Day. I've already ordered bulbs for fall planting - lots of deer-resistant allium and daffodils for the front yard.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Monday, May 15, 2006
Monday, 15 May 2006 - Places to go ...
Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for places to go, things to do and people to see.
Look at a day when you are supremely satisfied at the end. It's not a day when you lounge around doing nothing; it's when you've had everything to do, and you've done it. ~Lord Acton
For these blessings, I am grateful.
Amen.
Today, I am thankful for places to go, things to do and people to see.
Look at a day when you are supremely satisfied at the end. It's not a day when you lounge around doing nothing; it's when you've had everything to do, and you've done it. ~Lord Acton
For these blessings, I am grateful.
Amen.
Sunday, May 14, 2006
Sunday, 14 May 2006 - Mother's Day
Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for Mom and all the women who have touched my life in a remarkable way - grandmothers, aunts, sisters, cousins, nieces, friends, teachers (especially my college professors), business colleagues, favorite authors ... Happy Mother's Day and thank you for sharing your lives with me.
For these blessings, I am grateful.
Amen.
Today, I am thankful for Mom and all the women who have touched my life in a remarkable way - grandmothers, aunts, sisters, cousins, nieces, friends, teachers (especially my college professors), business colleagues, favorite authors ... Happy Mother's Day and thank you for sharing your lives with me.
For these blessings, I am grateful.
Amen.
Saturday, May 13, 2006
Saturday, 13 May 2006 - IPTV
Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for IPTV (Internet protocol TV).
Despite its problems, we can't live without on demand Internet TV.
We're currently watching the Giro d'Italia and other professional cycling races taking place in Europe. Except for the Tour de France, traditional television doesn't cover the sport in the US.
I love technology. And don't mind paying for it when it enhances my life (even a little bit).
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Today, I am thankful for IPTV (Internet protocol TV).
Despite its problems, we can't live without on demand Internet TV.
We're currently watching the Giro d'Italia and other professional cycling races taking place in Europe. Except for the Tour de France, traditional television doesn't cover the sport in the US.
I love technology. And don't mind paying for it when it enhances my life (even a little bit).
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Friday, May 12, 2006
Friday, 12 May 2006 - Salads
Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for fresh salads.
The warm weather whets my appetite for salads made from baby greens and lots of shredded red cabbage. My favorite dressing is a ginger sesame vinagrette. I've been eating 2-3 large bowlfuls a day. Hmmmm. My body must need the nutrients as I train for the upcoming hiking, biking and climbing season.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Today, I am thankful for fresh salads.
The warm weather whets my appetite for salads made from baby greens and lots of shredded red cabbage. My favorite dressing is a ginger sesame vinagrette. I've been eating 2-3 large bowlfuls a day. Hmmmm. My body must need the nutrients as I train for the upcoming hiking, biking and climbing season.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Thursday, May 11, 2006
Thursday, 11 May 2006 - A gardener's intuition
Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for a gardener's intuition.
Gardening is a kind of disease. It infects you, you cannot escape it. When you go visiting, your eyes rove about the garden; you interrupt the serious cocktail drinking because of an irresistible impulse to get up and pull a weed. ~Lewis Gannit
Green fingers are the extension of a verdant heart. ~Russell Page
This week, I helped the local Horicultural Arts Society set up for their annual spring plant sale. The volunteers got to select and buy plants before the sale officially begins on Friday morning. I bought several large shrubs for the back yard and a dozen xeric perennials for the front yard.
My next challenge: deciding where to plant the shrubs. With very little landscaping, the backyard is a blank canvas just begging for form and color. I'll do what I always do - just follow my intuition.
I'll plant the verbena here so I can see it from the kitchen window and the buddleia over there where it can grow as tall and wide as it wishes. The three cytisus should thrive in the hot and dry south-facing plot. The spirea will be perfect near this penstemon patch.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Today, I am thankful for a gardener's intuition.
Gardening is a kind of disease. It infects you, you cannot escape it. When you go visiting, your eyes rove about the garden; you interrupt the serious cocktail drinking because of an irresistible impulse to get up and pull a weed. ~Lewis Gannit
Green fingers are the extension of a verdant heart. ~Russell Page
This week, I helped the local Horicultural Arts Society set up for their annual spring plant sale. The volunteers got to select and buy plants before the sale officially begins on Friday morning. I bought several large shrubs for the back yard and a dozen xeric perennials for the front yard.
My next challenge: deciding where to plant the shrubs. With very little landscaping, the backyard is a blank canvas just begging for form and color. I'll do what I always do - just follow my intuition.
I'll plant the verbena here so I can see it from the kitchen window and the buddleia over there where it can grow as tall and wide as it wishes. The three cytisus should thrive in the hot and dry south-facing plot. The spirea will be perfect near this penstemon patch.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Wednesday, 10 May 2006 - Final hard frost
Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for the season's final hard frost (I hope).
Last night, there came a frost, which has done great damage to my garden.... It is sad that Nature will play such tricks on us poor mortals, inviting us with sunny smiles to confide in her, and then, when we are entirely within her power, striking us to the heart. ~Nathaniel Hawthorne
Ahhh. Springtime along the Front Range.
Surprise! This morning, I awoke to snow and sub-freezing temperatures. The weather service predicts that tonight's low will dip below 30 degrees Fahrenheit. My gardening friends claim that this will be the last hard frost of the season; that we should be able to plant our gardens after May 15.
I trust neither the weather service nor the calendar, having learned my "planting too soon" lessons the hard and expensive way. Consequently, I won't begin my planting spree until June 1. Just in case.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Today, I am thankful for the season's final hard frost (I hope).
Last night, there came a frost, which has done great damage to my garden.... It is sad that Nature will play such tricks on us poor mortals, inviting us with sunny smiles to confide in her, and then, when we are entirely within her power, striking us to the heart. ~Nathaniel Hawthorne
Ahhh. Springtime along the Front Range.
Surprise! This morning, I awoke to snow and sub-freezing temperatures. The weather service predicts that tonight's low will dip below 30 degrees Fahrenheit. My gardening friends claim that this will be the last hard frost of the season; that we should be able to plant our gardens after May 15.
I trust neither the weather service nor the calendar, having learned my "planting too soon" lessons the hard and expensive way. Consequently, I won't begin my planting spree until June 1. Just in case.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Tuesday, May 09, 2006
Tuesday, 09 May 2006 - Bird songs
Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for bird songs.
A bird does not sing because it has an answer.
It sings because it has a song.
~Chinese Proverb
When T and I arrive at the park by 6:30 AM, we can walk our laps while listening to lively bird songs. When we arrive after 7 AM, we're greeted by the smell of diesel from the idling heavy equipment at the adjacent construction site and the rumble of earth movers leveling our beloved trail.
Consequently, we make every effort to be early so we don't miss the latest orchestral work for finches, robins and other avian divas.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Today, I am thankful for bird songs.
A bird does not sing because it has an answer.
It sings because it has a song.
~Chinese Proverb
When T and I arrive at the park by 6:30 AM, we can walk our laps while listening to lively bird songs. When we arrive after 7 AM, we're greeted by the smell of diesel from the idling heavy equipment at the adjacent construction site and the rumble of earth movers leveling our beloved trail.
Consequently, we make every effort to be early so we don't miss the latest orchestral work for finches, robins and other avian divas.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Monday, May 08, 2006
Monday, 08 May 2006 - A writing life
Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for a writing life.
Find out the reason that commands you to write; see whether it has spread its roots into the very depth of your heart; confess to yourself you would have to die if you were forbidden to write. ~Rainer Maria Rilke
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Today, I am thankful for a writing life.
Find out the reason that commands you to write; see whether it has spread its roots into the very depth of your heart; confess to yourself you would have to die if you were forbidden to write. ~Rainer Maria Rilke
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Sunday, May 07, 2006
Sunday, 07 May 2006 - A smile
Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for a smile - human, canine or ????.
Everytime you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing. ~Mother Teresa
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Today, I am thankful for a smile - human, canine or ????.
Everytime you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing. ~Mother Teresa
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Saturday, May 06, 2006
Saturday, 06 May 2006 - The Giro d'Italia
Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for the Giro d'Italia (our favorite pro-cycling Grand Tour).
It is by riding a bicycle that you learn the contours of a country best, since you have to sweat up the hills and coast down them. Thus you remember them as they actually are, while in a motor car only a high hill impresses you, and you have no such accurate remembrance of country you have driven through as you gain by riding a bicycle. ~Ernest Hemingway
We're joining cycling fans around the world to celebrate the start of the Giro d'Italia (Tour of Italy). S and I will follow the race on the Internet via subscription IPTV (offered in the US by OLN). For the next three weeks, we'll wake up very early, boot-up our laptops and watch the drama unfold as the cyclists ride through the gorgeous Italian countryside and over steep mountain passes.
We're cheering for definding champion, Paolo Savoldelli, who won today's prologue by 11 seconds. But, we also like several other Italian racers and Jose Rujano, the diminuitive Venezuelan rider and climbing phenom who finished third in 2005.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Today, I am thankful for the Giro d'Italia (our favorite pro-cycling Grand Tour).
It is by riding a bicycle that you learn the contours of a country best, since you have to sweat up the hills and coast down them. Thus you remember them as they actually are, while in a motor car only a high hill impresses you, and you have no such accurate remembrance of country you have driven through as you gain by riding a bicycle. ~Ernest Hemingway
We're joining cycling fans around the world to celebrate the start of the Giro d'Italia (Tour of Italy). S and I will follow the race on the Internet via subscription IPTV (offered in the US by OLN). For the next three weeks, we'll wake up very early, boot-up our laptops and watch the drama unfold as the cyclists ride through the gorgeous Italian countryside and over steep mountain passes.
We're cheering for definding champion, Paolo Savoldelli, who won today's prologue by 11 seconds. But, we also like several other Italian racers and Jose Rujano, the diminuitive Venezuelan rider and climbing phenom who finished third in 2005.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Friday, May 05, 2006
Friday, 05 May 2006 - Five things
Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for five things.
- My sister, Ellen, who is celebrating her 46th birthday. She is one of those rare individuals who is as beautiful on the inside as she is on the outside.
- My paternal grandmother who really loved me and my sisters. She died on May 5, 1977.
- The rainy weather our gardens have enjoyed the past few days.
- Earthworms.
- Mulch. Lots of it spread thickly over the garden.
For these blessings, I am grateful.
Amen.
Thursday, May 04, 2006
Thursday, 04 May 2006 - Wisdom to know the difference
Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for "wisdom to know the difference."
God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.
~Reinhold Niebuhr
Remedy it, or welcome it: a wise man's only two choices. ~Terri Guillemets
See everything; overlook a great deal; correct a little. ~Pope John XXIII
It took me a long time to understand the Serenity Prayer and apply it to my life. My controlling, perfectionist personality and strong leadership abilities are excellent traits for the workplace but not for a marriage.
I've learned a lot in the process of growing up. Things like picking my battles carefully, making the best of what I've been given, playing the hand I've been dealt, making delicious lemonade from lemons and finding silver linings in storm clouds. I've also learned that when I point my finger at another to place blame, three fingers point back at me.
Nothing is easy. Especially changing myself. I know that I must pay the price if I am to reap any reward for my efforts. Good intentions don't matter. Inner work is a sweaty, heart pumping workout. Introspection often leaves me with nagging aches and pains.
And, because I am human and imperfect, the work never ends:
- Raising a low self-esteem
- Gaining confidence
- Nurturing belief in self
- Conquering the eating disorder and out-of-whack body image
- Healing a broken heart and battered soul
- Praying for others including my enemies
- Praying for me, just in case
- Reining in my critical, judgmental nature
- Seeing myself as others see me
- Nailing my pride and selfishness to the Cross - daily
- Forgiving others
- Forgiving myself
Maturity. Wisdom. Experience. Serenity.
Life comes together slowly.
If it comes together, at all.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Today, I am thankful for "wisdom to know the difference."
God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.
~Reinhold Niebuhr
Remedy it, or welcome it: a wise man's only two choices. ~Terri Guillemets
See everything; overlook a great deal; correct a little. ~Pope John XXIII
It took me a long time to understand the Serenity Prayer and apply it to my life. My controlling, perfectionist personality and strong leadership abilities are excellent traits for the workplace but not for a marriage.
I've learned a lot in the process of growing up. Things like picking my battles carefully, making the best of what I've been given, playing the hand I've been dealt, making delicious lemonade from lemons and finding silver linings in storm clouds. I've also learned that when I point my finger at another to place blame, three fingers point back at me.
Nothing is easy. Especially changing myself. I know that I must pay the price if I am to reap any reward for my efforts. Good intentions don't matter. Inner work is a sweaty, heart pumping workout. Introspection often leaves me with nagging aches and pains.
And, because I am human and imperfect, the work never ends:
- Raising a low self-esteem
- Gaining confidence
- Nurturing belief in self
- Conquering the eating disorder and out-of-whack body image
- Healing a broken heart and battered soul
- Praying for others including my enemies
- Praying for me, just in case
- Reining in my critical, judgmental nature
- Seeing myself as others see me
- Nailing my pride and selfishness to the Cross - daily
- Forgiving others
- Forgiving myself
Maturity. Wisdom. Experience. Serenity.
Life comes together slowly.
If it comes together, at all.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
Wednesday, 03 May 2006 - pH of 7.0
Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for a pH of 7.0.
My chronic health issue - a body that's too acidic - is now history. I've been testing my saliva for over two years and working hard to convert my body to a more alkaline state. It hasn't been easy, and it's taken so long to see positive results.
I am happy to report that, for the past few months, my first-in-the-morning saliva has had a pH of 6.75. This morning, I was delighted to see that my pH was 7.0.
Alternative health experts say that testing consistently at 6.5 is an achievement. Of course, I want to do better. And, I will.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Today, I am thankful for a pH of 7.0.
My chronic health issue - a body that's too acidic - is now history. I've been testing my saliva for over two years and working hard to convert my body to a more alkaline state. It hasn't been easy, and it's taken so long to see positive results.
I am happy to report that, for the past few months, my first-in-the-morning saliva has had a pH of 6.75. This morning, I was delighted to see that my pH was 7.0.
Alternative health experts say that testing consistently at 6.5 is an achievement. Of course, I want to do better. And, I will.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
Tuesday, 02 May 2006 - A college memory
Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for a college memory.
This morning, I read that Bill Kirschner, the founder of K2 Corp., had died. I never learned to alpine ski, preferring the easier sports of cross country skiing and snowshoeing. So, I have virtually no direct connection to Mr. Kirshner or his company. But, he is part of a cherished memory. His death triggered this remembrance.
At UCLA, my dorm roommates were tall women - at least 5'8" in height. I was (and still am) petite - about 5' 2". During my sophomore year, my roommate was Mary Jane, a beautiful, willowy blond math major. She had an optimistic spirit and carefree attitude (in contrast to my intense, must get an A attitude). Mare, as we called her, gave many of us endearing nicknames. Mine was "Shorts," after the "revolutionary" K2 Shorts alpine skis.
Rest in peace, Mr. Kirshner. And thanks for touching my life in a unexpected way.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Today, I am thankful for a college memory.
This morning, I read that Bill Kirschner, the founder of K2 Corp., had died. I never learned to alpine ski, preferring the easier sports of cross country skiing and snowshoeing. So, I have virtually no direct connection to Mr. Kirshner or his company. But, he is part of a cherished memory. His death triggered this remembrance.
At UCLA, my dorm roommates were tall women - at least 5'8" in height. I was (and still am) petite - about 5' 2". During my sophomore year, my roommate was Mary Jane, a beautiful, willowy blond math major. She had an optimistic spirit and carefree attitude (in contrast to my intense, must get an A attitude). Mare, as we called her, gave many of us endearing nicknames. Mine was "Shorts," after the "revolutionary" K2 Shorts alpine skis.
Rest in peace, Mr. Kirshner. And thanks for touching my life in a unexpected way.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Monday, May 01, 2006
Monday, 01 May 2006 - Social conscience
Dear God:
Today, I am thankful for a social conscience.
Although I live locally, I realize I must think and act globally. So, I try to live as though my daily acts affect the world's well being.
I try not to waste food or energy resources or water. I recycle and reuse and feed the compost pile daily. I refuse to buy certain items or patronize certain businesses. I take care of my little plot of earth by planting gardens that attract birds and butterflies and bees and earthworms. I walk a lot and limit my driving miles. I pick up trash around the neighborhood. I give money to save the rainforests and other endangered resources. I teach the neighborhood kids the importance of taking care of the Earth by setting the example. I think they're watching and learning.
All this so the Earth might survive the last decades of my life and then some.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
Today, I am thankful for a social conscience.
Although I live locally, I realize I must think and act globally. So, I try to live as though my daily acts affect the world's well being.
I try not to waste food or energy resources or water. I recycle and reuse and feed the compost pile daily. I refuse to buy certain items or patronize certain businesses. I take care of my little plot of earth by planting gardens that attract birds and butterflies and bees and earthworms. I walk a lot and limit my driving miles. I pick up trash around the neighborhood. I give money to save the rainforests and other endangered resources. I teach the neighborhood kids the importance of taking care of the Earth by setting the example. I think they're watching and learning.
All this so the Earth might survive the last decades of my life and then some.
For this blessing, I am grateful.
Amen.
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