tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-95973262024-03-23T12:02:57.916-06:00my grateful journalThere shall be eternal summer in the grateful heart.
~Celia Thaxtergoseigirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03321570720289030822noreply@blogger.comBlogger1443125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9597326.post-69953586437091781952023-09-13T20:01:00.000-06:002023-09-13T20:01:19.873-06:00Tandem: 12-18-96 to 6-29-12Dear God:<br />
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Today, I am thankful for T, our precious canine son. <div><br /></div><div>For his love and companionship, for all the joy he gave us, for all the adventures he shared with us, for the honor and privilege of being his mom, I am forever grateful.</div><div><br /></div><div>Amen.<br />
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<span face="Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif">Tandem</span></h3>
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<span face="Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif">December 18, 1996 - June 29, 2012 </span></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">What can I say about the best canine dude who ever lived? Here's how his story ended.</div>
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June 27, 2012.</b> The Waldo Canyon fire explodes. We watch the flames crest the Front Range foothills behind our home and rush to evacuate as the fire approaches our neighborhood. Steve takes T in the truck; I follow in my Camry. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We rendezvous at CityRock climbing gym in downtown, Colorado Springs. There, our friends from the climbing community, offer us a place to stay. We're grateful for their generosity and compassion. We decide to stay with the "twins," my 19-year old climbing coaches.</div>
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The house is the Ivywild neighborhood. It's quiet and peaceful. The large backyard has an enormous apricot tree. Raspberry bushes line the fence.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">T is not doing well. He is disoriented and sad in this foreign environment. At 15-1/2, he is struggling to handle the stress of our displacement. His hips are giving out. We carry him from place to place in the house and yard. He isn't eating. We give him tranquilizers, hoping that sleep will revive him.</div>
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T struggles so hard to stay with us. I lie with him in the yard, hugging him as I weep. I hate to see him suffer. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>June 29, 2012.</b> S and I say good-bye to T. </div>
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</div>goseigirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03321570720289030822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9597326.post-7152590764046350162012-05-15T22:20:00.000-06:002012-05-15T22:20:00.835-06:00Tuesday, May 15, 2012 - Dad and ElsieDear God:<br />
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Today I am thankful for Dad and Elsie.<br />
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Sad. That's how I feel today.<br />
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I'm remembering two accomplished gardeners: Dad, who died two years ago today and my friend, Elsie, who died one year ago today.<br />
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Raindrops on roses - <br />
Angel tears that match my own.<br />
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I miss you, Dad. I miss you, Elsie. <br />
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For these blessings, I am grateful.<br />
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Amen.goseigirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03321570720289030822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9597326.post-29058484585244692622012-05-14T22:00:00.000-06:002012-05-14T22:00:08.152-06:00Monday, May 14, 2012 - Sunny yellow rosesDear God:<br />
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Today, I am thankful for sunny yellow roses.<br />
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The <i>Rosa hugonis</i> (Father Hugo Rose or Golden Rose of China) on the north side of my garden is in full bloom. Witness its loveliness.<br />
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<br />For this blessing, I am grateful.<br />
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Amen.<br />
<span id="goog_1129613588"></span><span id="goog_1129613589"></span>goseigirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03321570720289030822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9597326.post-63963005903502433532012-05-13T15:40:00.000-06:002012-05-13T15:44:48.366-06:00Sunday, May 13, 2012 - ColumbinesDear God:<br />
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Today, I am thankful for columbines.<br />
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The blue columbine is the state flower of Colorado. Alas, I don't think blue ones ever graced my gardens. Nevertheless, I don't miss the official variety - the ones that emerge every spring in my backyard garden are as lovely as any I have seen in the high mountain meadows. <br />
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I shot the first two columbine portraits first thing in the morning after the night's gentle rainfall and the others later in the afternoon. <br />
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Although my mother dreams of spring lilacs, I think she'd love a bouquet of my columbines. <br />
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These are for you, Mom. Happy Mother's Day!<br />
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For this blessing, I am grateful.<br />
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Amen.goseigirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03321570720289030822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9597326.post-26107375781607181892011-12-18T16:30:00.000-07:002011-12-18T16:30:26.841-07:00T turns 15Dear God:<br />
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Today, I am so thankful for T as we celebrate his 15th birthday.<br />
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Yes, T is still with us.<br />
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After T's leg surgery in June, S and I weren't optimistic that he would make it to age 15. But he did.<br />
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At age 15, T can't hear very well and has lost his once very keen sense of smell. An arthritic right hip keeps him from exploring the neighborhood along favorite dirt trails, yet he is perfectly content to walk around the park twice a day with S. He still eats well, poops regularly and, to our delight, occasionally acts like "young" T.<br />
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Happy birthday to our most precious fellow. Despite what others may claim, you are the indisputable best doggie in the whole Universe, the best dog that ever lived. We love you so much.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk3WzFmgUL1j4C-BzIAszYHCNM6VeC7UhpSr3aemOLuFGDWJ5r6VGFlhx2Xq5llfP9FTt-5gtIdM2oae7ByxDT0T7miEH0D_Y9ylCnx4u9iHmfRoPCdlHnvOPTJMbSuE-afANyew/s1600/tandem+2+cropped+PC180594.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk3WzFmgUL1j4C-BzIAszYHCNM6VeC7UhpSr3aemOLuFGDWJ5r6VGFlhx2Xq5llfP9FTt-5gtIdM2oae7ByxDT0T7miEH0D_Y9ylCnx4u9iHmfRoPCdlHnvOPTJMbSuE-afANyew/s400/tandem+2+cropped+PC180594.JPG" width="346" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">T - still as handsome as ever at 15</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8eXiXrytcw4yq-gNve3fXe3RU9VsZMNqdk6ulZ9wIhARjj1Clg4GeMD_x1HjUGUsaOXB2SshZTm6RKSCpruNzURfKFAlfssGUSep-NGkC1Q5oZR3OWBwgjbFX9Sy_uBk67EPutw/s1600/tandem+1+PC180598.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8eXiXrytcw4yq-gNve3fXe3RU9VsZMNqdk6ulZ9wIhARjj1Clg4GeMD_x1HjUGUsaOXB2SshZTm6RKSCpruNzURfKFAlfssGUSep-NGkC1Q5oZR3OWBwgjbFX9Sy_uBk67EPutw/s400/tandem+1+PC180598.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No longer able to join us on hikes or our climbing adventures, T is quite content to be an indoor dog. <br />This lovely winter afternoon, despite sunny skies and warm temperatures, he prefers to do what he does best.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP7opSP-EKPFUsVGnl6wTUMfeyaqsnkQrjHbYflNjeFYwpeBfmd9-Udqz6Q1LUTpQzB348yzGZOqV455GedTPjptqLHrebUi4JsY1ErzEMyZQ2MvYCi0nK-IBL5pPUlxJURUlp9w/s1600/Thanksgiving+2011-c+PB240571.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP7opSP-EKPFUsVGnl6wTUMfeyaqsnkQrjHbYflNjeFYwpeBfmd9-Udqz6Q1LUTpQzB348yzGZOqV455GedTPjptqLHrebUi4JsY1ErzEMyZQ2MvYCi0nK-IBL5pPUlxJURUlp9w/s400/Thanksgiving+2011-c+PB240571.JPG" width="400" /> </a></td><td style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A final walk along the mountain road with S - Thanksgiving 2011.<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
For this most extraordinary blessing, I am very grateful.<br />
<br />
Amen.goseigirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03321570720289030822noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9597326.post-30143638042315363562011-08-06T15:50:00.000-06:002011-08-06T15:50:00.035-06:00Summer colorsDear God:<br />
<br />
Today, I am thankful for summer colors.<br />
<br />
The summer blooming season is in full swing. Like a color-happy artist, my garden paints my miniscule corner of the Earth with hues that reflect many moods: cool and warm, muted and intense.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Please don't ask me to name my favorite.<br />
<br />
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</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2jHzriM67Jo8uHUlHLCRkZki66WYXBvgSvxQYZzh72FSXByNcXsfJuf4XJ_p_wR1ubs40bGX1eaEXqMc9d3O6IlCfpgu1zyy8CupH3MTYsCzjTj2A-oadnlCYGdNraHfGwJygiA/s1600/P8060459+centrathus.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2jHzriM67Jo8uHUlHLCRkZki66WYXBvgSvxQYZzh72FSXByNcXsfJuf4XJ_p_wR1ubs40bGX1eaEXqMc9d3O6IlCfpgu1zyy8CupH3MTYsCzjTj2A-oadnlCYGdNraHfGwJygiA/s320/P8060459+centrathus.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggn4L65Qc-mORRHEvdcYQUFAWHUHDb_HVmd2wqMcSJ9WDdEa0EWJZS365q2eZRWjTNHv9KLd-pkdoO7ac8-1kIgzTd7rsA9001dqHgxOCB_doUH2zhVvUgPqGZnzIM1QYLIZcwbg/s1600/P8040468+cleome3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggn4L65Qc-mORRHEvdcYQUFAWHUHDb_HVmd2wqMcSJ9WDdEa0EWJZS365q2eZRWjTNHv9KLd-pkdoO7ac8-1kIgzTd7rsA9001dqHgxOCB_doUH2zhVvUgPqGZnzIM1QYLIZcwbg/s320/P8040468+cleome3.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<br />
For this blessing, I am thankful.<br />
<br />
Amen.goseigirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03321570720289030822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9597326.post-18857335010374508722011-08-06T15:05:00.000-06:002011-08-06T15:05:00.889-06:00Morning lightDear God:<br />
<br />
Today, I am thankful for morning light.<br />
<br />
On workdays, T usually rouses me around 4:30 AM when he gets up to reposition himself on his sleeping blanket. My clock is set for a 5:05 AM wake-up call, so for the next half-hour, I lie in bed anticipating the alarm's "ding-ding-ding". In other words, T goes back to sleep while I hover in a half-asleep/half-awake state.<br />
<br />
Occasionally, I give in and just get up. An early start never hurts even though I've slept for less than 6 hours.<br />
<br />
Last Thursday morning was such an occasion. I arose earlier than normal and happily spent some of the extra time in my backyard garden.<br />
<br />
The sun's rays barely cleared the fence top. The soft light fell gently across different plants, creating interesting flower portraits. Fortunately, I had my camera with me. Here are three of my favorite photos from that morning's shoot.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFj2WAqid0tsz9tfuXRDofz8EMnNrIXOsU3CMopt-c4lZsOvZWQ05pLY60twQ0X7Vp9klAnIMfBPREihXem5AkGzeaCFnvRqwEAiN6NWKDeNLZ3UaR0ErPBZoVHs5LAIltM43OVg/s1600/P8040451+sunflower+morning1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFj2WAqid0tsz9tfuXRDofz8EMnNrIXOsU3CMopt-c4lZsOvZWQ05pLY60twQ0X7Vp9klAnIMfBPREihXem5AkGzeaCFnvRqwEAiN6NWKDeNLZ3UaR0ErPBZoVHs5LAIltM43OVg/s640/P8040451+sunflower+morning1.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This sunflower faces east, catching a few rays of early morning sunlight.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnAR3Gw34DGbaCfnCWgxl642iBwI2feBjQsfLbgJBYmwVKCErGGPIWdQ495iLlRq88bVLXMDSK32b4glmoCcNGE8dOr0_WxJ9sE4ebNa3mSUxvVk_-bLXX25g26M1kFqrAqiEs9Q/s1600/P8040465+cleome+morning+light.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnAR3Gw34DGbaCfnCWgxl642iBwI2feBjQsfLbgJBYmwVKCErGGPIWdQ495iLlRq88bVLXMDSK32b4glmoCcNGE8dOr0_WxJ9sE4ebNa3mSUxvVk_-bLXX25g26M1kFqrAqiEs9Q/s640/P8040465+cleome+morning+light.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The early morning light illuminates this Cleome. Blodgett Peak towers in the background</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoEVLrR1YnAVvhKrsgk-ymFUa5WQeOxTZD_Dgq_TSnZB2xccMX5DAIAwnmUnsx4YKlkSPlqbYbhbRWpbKcdh4WHdjv0ROMmBv-1wG_2SDHbHjV8Cc4AFAXVeOpSVvVUqSDSZ4m8w/s1600/P8040462+cleome+group1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoEVLrR1YnAVvhKrsgk-ymFUa5WQeOxTZD_Dgq_TSnZB2xccMX5DAIAwnmUnsx4YKlkSPlqbYbhbRWpbKcdh4WHdjv0ROMmBv-1wG_2SDHbHjV8Cc4AFAXVeOpSVvVUqSDSZ4m8w/s640/P8040462+cleome+group1.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cleome stand tall in front of the old cedar fence. The string bean-like structures are seed pods</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> For this blessing, I am grateful.<br />
<br />
Amen.goseigirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03321570720289030822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9597326.post-84585836359651406072011-07-31T19:02:00.001-06:002011-07-31T19:02:00.738-06:00T's Healed LegDear God:<br />
<br />
Today, I am thankful for T's healed leg.<br />
<br />
S and I removed the bandage from T's right foreleg. Except for a few small red spots along the incision scar, the site is healed. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0g9tuTgrvRLQf8GrGDfOmHP9-6Hq4XQ4VyywwCSdl_l66yjGPlQILblBw99zeXuxLoon9ZLrTXKYHTKgs-xloVfBoZIkLDDzIWesQnYJMS4dfrzxEbXuScpKkiEGuin6CJeYV2A/s1600/P7300550tandem2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0g9tuTgrvRLQf8GrGDfOmHP9-6Hq4XQ4VyywwCSdl_l66yjGPlQILblBw99zeXuxLoon9ZLrTXKYHTKgs-xloVfBoZIkLDDzIWesQnYJMS4dfrzxEbXuScpKkiEGuin6CJeYV2A/s400/P7300550tandem2.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">T, sans bandage, does what he does best - taking a long, quiet nap on a hot summer afternoon in Colorado.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>For this blessing, I am very grateful.<br />
<br />
Amen.goseigirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03321570720289030822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9597326.post-12250315560406046082011-07-19T22:05:00.002-06:002011-07-19T22:15:15.567-06:00My dad and my gardensDear God:<br />
<br />
Today, I am thankful for my dad and my gardens.<br />
<br />
If he had lived, Dad would be celebrating his 86th birthday today. Instead, over year after his death, I am honoring him in my own, very private way, in my garden.<br />
<br />
I spent the weekend tidying my backyard garden - just in case Dad was curious and checked in to see what's blooming. Despite the 90 degree-plus temperatures, I spent several hours weeding, pruning, thinning, deadheading, mulching and watering.<br />
<br />
Just in case, of course. <br />
<br />
I hope Dad was happy that at least one of his five daughters (me) inherited his gardening genes and became a rather accomplished gardener. He never said a thing to me about my endeavors. Still, I'm sure he was proud of me, especially since I garden in a very challenging environment - the arid, high plains of the Colorado Front Range.<br />
<br />
So, in celebration of Dad's 86th birthday, I'm inviting you to take a short walk in my gardens. Warning: the plants are not as green and lush as the ones he grew in Southern California.<br />
<br />
Most of mine are xeric: drought-resistant or drought-tolerant. Many are Colorado natives. Lots are deer- and rabbit-resistant. Some are edible. All are lovely.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnP22U4Iy6Ek0mVyUMGkYrkzOwvN-_eg7RNYq4oa9HyePQ4TwQY5u0fu9WsuXKGxjrdmHXQu3H8jMBGcs9MFHJLXipDtV9xLCi_2mIFU9ls9YoHaw9pKF3LMzLY-fMWYya7xmfXw/s1600/dad1+P7180730.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnP22U4Iy6Ek0mVyUMGkYrkzOwvN-_eg7RNYq4oa9HyePQ4TwQY5u0fu9WsuXKGxjrdmHXQu3H8jMBGcs9MFHJLXipDtV9xLCi_2mIFU9ls9YoHaw9pKF3LMzLY-fMWYya7xmfXw/s640/dad1+P7180730.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Backyard garden - looking west</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuCluudHdP3xd6FCY8GoPNaNUS1gjgqkXMfZiwCHe80x9DTD-hDwSLk0xPnYleUwV89ouDI3BreMe-soafty-i9eS3-AA7CzyZiMjpIT_xsqpG4KDPFkdAllub_1UfWiA1nFil0w/s1600/dad2+P7180732.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuCluudHdP3xd6FCY8GoPNaNUS1gjgqkXMfZiwCHe80x9DTD-hDwSLk0xPnYleUwV89ouDI3BreMe-soafty-i9eS3-AA7CzyZiMjpIT_xsqpG4KDPFkdAllub_1UfWiA1nFil0w/s640/dad2+P7180732.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Backyard garden - along the north fence</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2961985XLzlmT6b1MSaYWY5l7YDXolWYCipNrBl8f6PouKnztn-hTxJ1MXT9iNnfePbRJa0iZsgZyAFHcwkpr1daXjlZgksBMM3CDqQ7V8Wo8Gk1zEc3ZGja__Z9xd9tMduvSEg/s1600/dad3+P7180737.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2961985XLzlmT6b1MSaYWY5l7YDXolWYCipNrBl8f6PouKnztn-hTxJ1MXT9iNnfePbRJa0iZsgZyAFHcwkpr1daXjlZgksBMM3CDqQ7V8Wo8Gk1zEc3ZGja__Z9xd9tMduvSEg/s640/dad3+P7180737.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Backyard garden - another view looking west</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP9Ol8wmFzUJ1_WK1hyphenhyphengAfzCr7oCRr8a1npNwPXC1XnUeJ9SLft9vdMGXmEsQ0rqWIiCkuzRH_bGy0NT3JAwiLVUim77TqxhIb9R3OgZ3Xba_Sj-4U3q2mK9oLJ510QXqXnI1mKA/s1600/dad4+P7180740.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP9Ol8wmFzUJ1_WK1hyphenhyphengAfzCr7oCRr8a1npNwPXC1XnUeJ9SLft9vdMGXmEsQ0rqWIiCkuzRH_bGy0NT3JAwiLVUim77TqxhIb9R3OgZ3Xba_Sj-4U3q2mK9oLJ510QXqXnI1mKA/s640/dad4+P7180740.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Backyard garden - looking towards the northeast corner</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGb3Mj9i-eG5XVDc9HpY0MooiJBjj_87Ubkd6rPKPNybuvbbC4W1b3WvMBI2Ij_22-i_FcynuckuP3LRvoppLFR9eOFILnZuAcQshIYpkebSTBHSQLikIBLrTcFC03YZK2eGY-pQ/s1600/dad7+P7180692.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGb3Mj9i-eG5XVDc9HpY0MooiJBjj_87Ubkd6rPKPNybuvbbC4W1b3WvMBI2Ij_22-i_FcynuckuP3LRvoppLFR9eOFILnZuAcQshIYpkebSTBHSQLikIBLrTcFC03YZK2eGY-pQ/s640/dad7+P7180692.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Backyard garden - another view looking towards the northeast corner</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSxwem86r2CuZ340n-hM9phoyrIIbg2UPgHfg6cX0AmzXUTeM5b9RbAwQBALKBmlDBSWfB2Jzy6v5UgGr11LQbM9HIuwr0TqYftcujuZh0f-wJccUWeJ6ObcpshvVQHeGbpQ8bLg/s1600/dad13+P7180708.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSxwem86r2CuZ340n-hM9phoyrIIbg2UPgHfg6cX0AmzXUTeM5b9RbAwQBALKBmlDBSWfB2Jzy6v5UgGr11LQbM9HIuwr0TqYftcujuZh0f-wJccUWeJ6ObcpshvVQHeGbpQ8bLg/s640/dad13+P7180708.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Backyard garden - north fence</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiuxW_uwj1DJVCOyzn_Qm-L1Wf1DfGiWwCT1zUBgOIbAozB6sfGJdbminHtJe1JO8VLFaHdXOoMXcXvcCfSIEZ8re6pg-o8K3e_jznVFZYVQ2fl1hLF62UGFPvruyMDdHl6Zb9rA/s1600/dad14+P7180709.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiuxW_uwj1DJVCOyzn_Qm-L1Wf1DfGiWwCT1zUBgOIbAozB6sfGJdbminHtJe1JO8VLFaHdXOoMXcXvcCfSIEZ8re6pg-o8K3e_jznVFZYVQ2fl1hLF62UGFPvruyMDdHl6Zb9rA/s640/dad14+P7180709.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Backyard garden - north fence, close-in view</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC7lkpNqNYYB70y-_2p3t_q1g3H62OEswvostGb1DJ9VKbWtVRGJFA_MlnoeE3x__ppWfX4bBdZI2rmW5QUrpqyel_JalkFnHWa9b0YDVq_c6fl4zgXDSUJ6T1o5pPWoJnlo4jDQ/s640/dad15+P7180710.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Backyard garden - shadier section along the house</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC7lkpNqNYYB70y-_2p3t_q1g3H62OEswvostGb1DJ9VKbWtVRGJFA_MlnoeE3x__ppWfX4bBdZI2rmW5QUrpqyel_JalkFnHWa9b0YDVq_c6fl4zgXDSUJ6T1o5pPWoJnlo4jDQ/s1600/dad15+P7180710.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a> </div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdm5P3gUOiOUBAU4IDNk_HxI6Q2h2iOWttImsHYd9X-X8YN7ZurCE5KtfCzgCrKYVBDGIuolHoj3cVCjUCyeNZ9b-dSH8qiO43Yd_4ht6SKunu8efyx3Ev6dOs1PxjJ7Y8Jh0f0g/s1600/dad6+P7190745.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdm5P3gUOiOUBAU4IDNk_HxI6Q2h2iOWttImsHYd9X-X8YN7ZurCE5KtfCzgCrKYVBDGIuolHoj3cVCjUCyeNZ9b-dSH8qiO43Yd_4ht6SKunu8efyx3Ev6dOs1PxjJ7Y8Jh0f0g/s640/dad6+P7190745.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Front Yard</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK7VibNivv66b0P67Zj-XufTpR729fGfbLwzkbcZVJSt_kxo_9yhsVNJY0WjtWTqsnW2FPyZA8r0UqRk-c1UVDRX71RzSlCTfQBooj5TdjhFb4S1Yvx2Zh7tvbQl5N-dL577kQuw/s1600/daisy1+P7180712.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK7VibNivv66b0P67Zj-XufTpR729fGfbLwzkbcZVJSt_kxo_9yhsVNJY0WjtWTqsnW2FPyZA8r0UqRk-c1UVDRX71RzSlCTfQBooj5TdjhFb4S1Yvx2Zh7tvbQl5N-dL577kQuw/s640/daisy1+P7180712.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A daisy for your thoughts, Dad ... Happy Birthday ... we miss you.</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
For these blessings, I am very grateful.<br />
<br />
Amen.goseigirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03321570720289030822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9597326.post-79214272269847965622011-07-03T16:30:00.001-06:002011-07-03T16:40:18.188-06:00A sleeping dogDear God:<br />
<br />
Today, I am thankful for a sleeping dog.<br />
<br />
T's recovery from surgery has been an ordeal for all of us. S and I, however, can rationalize the experience and manage our emotions, reactions and responsibilities.<br />
<br />
Not so for T. He just doesn't understand. The worst part is the every-two-day visit to the "veg" for the bandage change. T's worst nightmare = any visit to the veg.<br />
<br />
When T returns home, he is quite agitated and won't lie down to rest. Naturally, his behavior makes S and I nervous, testing the limits of our patience. Fortunately, the incision is healing and T has full use of the foreleg.<br />
<br />
After this morning's visit to the veg, T finally settles down.<br />
<br />
A sleeping dog = a few hours of peace and quiet for his human parents.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwhYXXZ9fvmz-rvjSCfcITP2h1r9YDqtPp1fgY9o15vNlDBu3iRx2BcSMFpUYGT1iGMeK5apptGe5CKM4YUpW3bBmXWnOuXjaX9AJe1b5NkseByDRh6V-EYUCxCvvsUk4qOOI5JA/s1600/P703+t+sleeping+0500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwhYXXZ9fvmz-rvjSCfcITP2h1r9YDqtPp1fgY9o15vNlDBu3iRx2BcSMFpUYGT1iGMeK5apptGe5CKM4YUpW3bBmXWnOuXjaX9AJe1b5NkseByDRh6V-EYUCxCvvsUk4qOOI5JA/s320/P703+t+sleeping+0500.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
For this blessing, I am grateful.<br />
<br />
Amen.goseigirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03321570720289030822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9597326.post-23822815143841205642011-07-02T20:30:00.002-06:002011-07-02T20:30:01.300-06:00Le Tour de FranceDear God:<br />
<br />
Today, I am thankful for Le Tour de France.<br />
<br />
While not as imposing as a glorious field of French sunflowers, this single first-of-the-summer <i>Gaillardia </i>(blanket flower) shows off its favorite Tour colors. It bloomed this morning, just in time for the Tour's opening stage. Its bright yellow petals honor the coveted yellow jersey.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDK20xILWgrg9MoCYvD0TCjMz1gao6NxHwAVRYaip0zLC3wdTkIwZI86qBi9Y7Nwi7bgYJOXjTTIw1wjsi6-PgxmUOgdnSNNCXJHpbc27i3GuItUg0pdl8ZwJgQw0pc7G5IyBLxw/s1600/P702+daisy2+0446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDK20xILWgrg9MoCYvD0TCjMz1gao6NxHwAVRYaip0zLC3wdTkIwZI86qBi9Y7Nwi7bgYJOXjTTIw1wjsi6-PgxmUOgdnSNNCXJHpbc27i3GuItUg0pdl8ZwJgQw0pc7G5IyBLxw/s640/P702+daisy2+0446.jpg" width="638" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI0rL2Z69Y6UcsFTQjxOY9UHtkwJv_vnLROj8_7lVhJ2u8AI97thUdPrCrLA7pMBnkZkzIQSwyGLUyLq6begkHeJuIp7q_tafE8EcWeDXo_chvtLL1cNlEzynymVrmLWuzm6VscA/s1600/P6250467.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><br />
For this blessing, I am grateful.goseigirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03321570720289030822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9597326.post-41813935166533184862011-07-02T17:40:00.002-06:002011-07-02T17:40:00.917-06:00A touch of orangeDear God:<br />
<br />
Today, I am thankful for a touch of orange.<br />
<br />
Orange is one color I do not wear - the warm, sun-kissed citrus hue just doesn't flatter my classic winter coloring (or rather, <i>I do not do justice to orange</i>). Occasionally, I'll wear a top with deep coral or peach, but never, ever pure orange.<br />
<br />
My garden, however, doesn't care about my preferences. It can wear any color regardless of the season. So this morning, orange it is.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjva1NlGwsFjydChjkGl2Dmyk5Wbu4sQiGNcS1gMEkMEIBOhKnGhEKnNq5VYJfOOd8hWqKJOaR4wt1fNu3nZmfu2JrD5ONKRBizKID_KAPGLFkH5suthOIv8uxS79abmbwrgsyP_Q/s1600/P702+day+lily1+0445.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjva1NlGwsFjydChjkGl2Dmyk5Wbu4sQiGNcS1gMEkMEIBOhKnGhEKnNq5VYJfOOd8hWqKJOaR4wt1fNu3nZmfu2JrD5ONKRBizKID_KAPGLFkH5suthOIv8uxS79abmbwrgsyP_Q/s400/P702+day+lily1+0445.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqfSdiV0h9UmyT1Bg2bfLVwLjq0zLNXKldCUE0gkTlkR_-PbBt2nHxIEdPPClWzYq7xhfESA5OZU4A8XX18TPh9WA-mWFXALflpeZ32fzCtqS8XbICVWxVMShKLa-z7vmJwvvnZA/s1600/P702+orange1+0458.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="377" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqfSdiV0h9UmyT1Bg2bfLVwLjq0zLNXKldCUE0gkTlkR_-PbBt2nHxIEdPPClWzYq7xhfESA5OZU4A8XX18TPh9WA-mWFXALflpeZ32fzCtqS8XbICVWxVMShKLa-z7vmJwvvnZA/s400/P702+orange1+0458.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW2ovdR4RjWf0V9s615Am88p1dCit-MAgxQhG-YeSkCx2UNDfYz3kJKgzXvxBpFB-vkm23PsmtbZcpFmJxfcJHZFhRHzTIBWXzUfpCjlx2hh1R8J7WL2fm-SDl03SJ7vvpSdEKkg/s1600/P702+orange3+0463.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW2ovdR4RjWf0V9s615Am88p1dCit-MAgxQhG-YeSkCx2UNDfYz3kJKgzXvxBpFB-vkm23PsmtbZcpFmJxfcJHZFhRHzTIBWXzUfpCjlx2hh1R8J7WL2fm-SDl03SJ7vvpSdEKkg/s400/P702+orange3+0463.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOWWJpjU6RHLwdKE6fsDhesRdSHzpdNTWM8US8gwRVHCcFlhmirUGkwh8psJv5btq5X_-1RQrv1xpEodc7fjnzSU4PKxS0k51bWy6P8GNOd615NPU8SmncZHxlQzuGqQb3nKlZCQ/s1600/P702+orange4+0472.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOWWJpjU6RHLwdKE6fsDhesRdSHzpdNTWM8US8gwRVHCcFlhmirUGkwh8psJv5btq5X_-1RQrv1xpEodc7fjnzSU4PKxS0k51bWy6P8GNOd615NPU8SmncZHxlQzuGqQb3nKlZCQ/s400/P702+orange4+0472.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlWHR1WYlwFaMOZfQsvPZaYhyphenhyphenWu0ji_ObCD7sFUFah6lfhNpdVgzLL7NL1vnneyqIvfJj_Dy67s9svJGAr9uEXxKZuwnexVKwzNRUPvqMDY7X-Q2hRlVK36wFbbTmymix9La-Qpw/s1600/P702+orange5+0467.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlWHR1WYlwFaMOZfQsvPZaYhyphenhyphenWu0ji_ObCD7sFUFah6lfhNpdVgzLL7NL1vnneyqIvfJj_Dy67s9svJGAr9uEXxKZuwnexVKwzNRUPvqMDY7X-Q2hRlVK36wFbbTmymix9La-Qpw/s400/P702+orange5+0467.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
For this blessing, I am grateful.<br />
<br />
Amen.goseigirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03321570720289030822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9597326.post-90453155942419033052011-06-29T08:45:00.003-06:002011-06-29T08:45:00.489-06:00A "from the top" perspectiveDear God:<br />
<br />
Today, I am thankful for a "from the top" perspective.<br />
<br />
A "from the top" view helps me capture unusual images of my garden. <br />
<br />
I'm looking straight down on these perennials and love what I see. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx9hICAht1_y5MpPZaWm-Cox9pl3yj-_Ul0zvU6vIyT7qHwEeUGT2XSomBGbngYjCwmRNTUwyCZAzBhUZh3TjPgUrTGrH2NLfagkcnh1KatbhUle3a41wjqfJ9GqVwMET1floQow/s1600/P628+favorite+0516.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx9hICAht1_y5MpPZaWm-Cox9pl3yj-_Ul0zvU6vIyT7qHwEeUGT2XSomBGbngYjCwmRNTUwyCZAzBhUZh3TjPgUrTGrH2NLfagkcnh1KatbhUle3a41wjqfJ9GqVwMET1floQow/s640/P628+favorite+0516.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />
For this blessing, I am grateful.<br />
<br />
Amen.goseigirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03321570720289030822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9597326.post-34520386675461406652011-06-28T15:10:00.001-06:002011-06-28T15:12:40.043-06:00Single bloomsDear God:<br />
<br />
Today, I am thankful for single blooms.<br />
<br />
Large floral bouquets usually catch my eye when I survey my garden. This afternoon, however, single blooms are the celebrities du jour.<br />
<br />
Here are portraits of some of the loveliest "stars."<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu1Y6NVFnDN97KGJFkjxZBzRcnnLkDC2iHSoYOmOW5Bo0Q1DsEZEcl8Ypm2-R0ZLuQLeYi8ri3oYK4z-YaYtJNxwREJsgjJQ0lC67W02wt57U2s355zZgTBaQ567NZUzA_dyyAMg/s1600/P628+apache+plume+1+0497.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu1Y6NVFnDN97KGJFkjxZBzRcnnLkDC2iHSoYOmOW5Bo0Q1DsEZEcl8Ypm2-R0ZLuQLeYi8ri3oYK4z-YaYtJNxwREJsgjJQ0lC67W02wt57U2s355zZgTBaQ567NZUzA_dyyAMg/s400/P628+apache+plume+1+0497.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGVWxyPPSVVdMEBaaoglA7PqrMPXsQEvBhzl3g8UqXruZ2RnozYWTEKrrTq-yoxUdz5PhwUiFSLP6sw4EX0E70HyKmC6t3bRYU-TwE4QGG5ftorQDnTLep8a0ul9cimHH8Q-vCBw/s1600/P628+tiny+daisy+1+0503.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="347" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGVWxyPPSVVdMEBaaoglA7PqrMPXsQEvBhzl3g8UqXruZ2RnozYWTEKrrTq-yoxUdz5PhwUiFSLP6sw4EX0E70HyKmC6t3bRYU-TwE4QGG5ftorQDnTLep8a0ul9cimHH8Q-vCBw/s400/P628+tiny+daisy+1+0503.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHJ2CBraCbJriPiB9oqFTPDgQKJrpOVQdfBGWtr50CBhKhMnwrubekd3lqysZyhmFl5cd9PFlpNTV_znVbXULM4fPJ51Cr8EcCY5ARzP0C15Kron5gCmIHWyIaCoSsnV3BO8Hb9w/s1600/P628+white+flower+1+0490.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="347" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHJ2CBraCbJriPiB9oqFTPDgQKJrpOVQdfBGWtr50CBhKhMnwrubekd3lqysZyhmFl5cd9PFlpNTV_znVbXULM4fPJ51Cr8EcCY5ARzP0C15Kron5gCmIHWyIaCoSsnV3BO8Hb9w/s400/P628+white+flower+1+0490.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiTGRHEoeDsRlh-qToYmlDObQKtl0HulUwL0Thyphenhyphen2cmgvhgiJG37Dq0ycHluq5uJYJCvzWj6f5K0fHp0n0ntEZiO7cU-kpMwwW51TDCrSqG_63nE7hPMXQSUXNwc2U_779UfkCsUw/s1600/P628+yellow+flower+1+0485.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiTGRHEoeDsRlh-qToYmlDObQKtl0HulUwL0Thyphenhyphen2cmgvhgiJG37Dq0ycHluq5uJYJCvzWj6f5K0fHp0n0ntEZiO7cU-kpMwwW51TDCrSqG_63nE7hPMXQSUXNwc2U_779UfkCsUw/s400/P628+yellow+flower+1+0485.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
For these blessings, I am grateful.<br />
<br />
Amen.goseigirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03321570720289030822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9597326.post-84312971082139721852011-06-26T00:56:00.001-06:002011-06-28T15:08:30.146-06:00Garden visitorsDear God:<br />
<br />
Today, I am thankful for garden visitors.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCg-YTxbypvkoTPeC4TWIVgqyVwLDYoqLluiXIVQCHvte0djR8DSgZAmJ3ywB5Um3qmkiXnmAJl3mqbVfmFACOBY6L-Ge_FuIhYyBnvsbid683xD4T_Kw-3KALftjsSqfUSt43NQ/s1600/P623+birds+0442.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="513" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCg-YTxbypvkoTPeC4TWIVgqyVwLDYoqLluiXIVQCHvte0djR8DSgZAmJ3ywB5Um3qmkiXnmAJl3mqbVfmFACOBY6L-Ge_FuIhYyBnvsbid683xD4T_Kw-3KALftjsSqfUSt43NQ/s640/P623+birds+0442.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A pair of tiny, yellow-chested birds (finches?) frolics in one of many cat mint bushes. I think this is a couple - the more intensely colored male is at the top.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Birds, bees, butterflies. Daily, my summer gardens welcome them all.<br />
<br />
(Note: To date, no visiting bee has stung me. I think bees know better than to annoy the gardener.) <br />
<br />
For these blessings, I am thankful.<br />
<br />
Amen.goseigirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03321570720289030822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9597326.post-59382870138456412252011-06-25T14:00:00.000-06:002011-06-25T14:00:01.960-06:00A small but perfect harvestDear God:<br />
<br />
Today, I am thankful for a small but perfect summer harvest.<br />
<br />
To my delight, the Swiss Chard plants in my edible garden are growing quickly. Each evening, I pick a large handful of leaves for my dinner salad or stir fry. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmcgF_a2JFSKYQ16bop-_ZqnY46bvEIVJmmxpszIsD3ACgiqtAOjFvhcdmlDgpgJ6IWQonaX-cY-fM0qCNba20HhgjjWi9h84RFBym7Hu_EaqF1L6IiJBNzE4yh_3Y12Vj7SBS9Q/s1600/P625+Swiss+Chard+0476.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmcgF_a2JFSKYQ16bop-_ZqnY46bvEIVJmmxpszIsD3ACgiqtAOjFvhcdmlDgpgJ6IWQonaX-cY-fM0qCNba20HhgjjWi9h84RFBym7Hu_EaqF1L6IiJBNzE4yh_3Y12Vj7SBS9Q/s320/P625+Swiss+Chard+0476.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
The rhubarb looks ready to harvest - will have just enough for a pie, a crumble or jam.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1VnkMxPTyJ6_eRHg1bVymPj9dqrvktdp8tu_HQccJDilOAEV7jL-JEaUfoxIi-nZhQe39QOCsNZZDkkhB8nNbStbPziPrvHj168JYnkYdoXWgjNNgLzVJ4LFBrP35Mm-K5bx4RQ/s1600/P625+rhubarb+0475.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1VnkMxPTyJ6_eRHg1bVymPj9dqrvktdp8tu_HQccJDilOAEV7jL-JEaUfoxIi-nZhQe39QOCsNZZDkkhB8nNbStbPziPrvHj168JYnkYdoXWgjNNgLzVJ4LFBrP35Mm-K5bx4RQ/s320/P625+rhubarb+0475.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Finally, we're ready for homemade Mojitos thanks to a bounty of sweet mint and endless batches of my special fresh herb-rich marinara sauce thanks to the thriving rosemary, oregano, sage, tarragon, thyme and lovage.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7_PwLi5Mzb0SaepjuKTt3kwJ4cJK8LAx9MtKps0WdPE2nHoFeYKTFYvRU8SUAxYuv6RhyphenhyphenJRl6ToOW5ONPl1fZDwzIDerDYP-kqdhqRiXcmsRfEIwN1axWAExAuqtnRnrbkr0PFw/s1600/P623+sweet+ming+0453.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7_PwLi5Mzb0SaepjuKTt3kwJ4cJK8LAx9MtKps0WdPE2nHoFeYKTFYvRU8SUAxYuv6RhyphenhyphenJRl6ToOW5ONPl1fZDwzIDerDYP-kqdhqRiXcmsRfEIwN1axWAExAuqtnRnrbkr0PFw/s320/P623+sweet+ming+0453.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ4W1vceAWuaM78PGfKN4GkmdS10JeWfwZ8NZT_ltgJ-bVE9-_j0do-8k8SruZ-A39g5gKIcPDDcOIZ2eshq_ghqkEgI9ysZongv4UWEfgQNSY0mwficR5LnfHutI8GQB9LikgXg/s1600/P625+rosemary+0477.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ4W1vceAWuaM78PGfKN4GkmdS10JeWfwZ8NZT_ltgJ-bVE9-_j0do-8k8SruZ-A39g5gKIcPDDcOIZ2eshq_ghqkEgI9ysZongv4UWEfgQNSY0mwficR5LnfHutI8GQB9LikgXg/s320/P625+rosemary+0477.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdqRisNiUI8LFAqHa886qd6nT3CZuSQT87h2_w-usZlH6LNlQ9rFU_CU4KXYcJvDK53RHKVJ4HG9d9_C3slQyAuvZvmSsX7QZqFG3Eo2IIpo2PlAo4oh7JtNoLBMhhtmKajZrZXA/s1600/P623+lovage+0450.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdqRisNiUI8LFAqHa886qd6nT3CZuSQT87h2_w-usZlH6LNlQ9rFU_CU4KXYcJvDK53RHKVJ4HG9d9_C3slQyAuvZvmSsX7QZqFG3Eo2IIpo2PlAo4oh7JtNoLBMhhtmKajZrZXA/s320/P623+lovage+0450.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8P-WXEXigIQIbSwKlQoKqtePHJSB814g2tvy6qJTv2C24A7i-CugnF2bCdH77Ip_9zmtK3FZGOdCu-4dQvaEweqOiJgpaQ1dzAOjohLyk7G66Hyl6IOsdkzeiTXq_qzz-2OhoZQ/s1600/P623+sage+0457.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8P-WXEXigIQIbSwKlQoKqtePHJSB814g2tvy6qJTv2C24A7i-CugnF2bCdH77Ip_9zmtK3FZGOdCu-4dQvaEweqOiJgpaQ1dzAOjohLyk7G66Hyl6IOsdkzeiTXq_qzz-2OhoZQ/s320/P623+sage+0457.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top to bottom: mint, rosemary, lovage, sage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>For this blessing, I am grateful.<br />
<br />
Amen.goseigirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03321570720289030822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9597326.post-71374250807399813442011-06-25T13:30:00.002-06:002011-06-25T13:46:36.179-06:00T's RecoveryDear God:<br />
<br />
Today, I am thankful for T's recovery.<br />
<br />
He made it through Wednesday's surgery and two annoyingly restless nights (well, annoying to me).<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha-nnQkjFu6atBBMEn-BWJFkO6QziCklHSK1CwcGCtsLI2AyZBlsAVLIWjw_1C49huz14vSRSPObTMklrcGC9BEDELMTAXa-3uIQwLQnomlcxkQ9conPloc285lbTSEqQAkWbRWw/s1600/P623+Tandem+0460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha-nnQkjFu6atBBMEn-BWJFkO6QziCklHSK1CwcGCtsLI2AyZBlsAVLIWjw_1C49huz14vSRSPObTMklrcGC9BEDELMTAXa-3uIQwLQnomlcxkQ9conPloc285lbTSEqQAkWbRWw/s320/P623+Tandem+0460.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">T post-surgery - finally falls asleep after the ordeal</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
This morning, the veg examined the wound and changed the dressing. So far, so good.<br />
<br />
The best news for T, our furniture and us: As long as he leaves his bandaged leg alone, T does not have to wear the dreaded Elizabethan collar.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGpJtm7cKDXQILti4zkaexmQqQ93fSGGPPd6Qts3WRxmNpOlVj5bCCeFbxbRjKRSno65A1Sifm5vb170HfWe0Y5HdkXHGuy_cPzNDAjTRSNKV-pCVEEVRVqXjToBuLVI0o_k0LEw/s1600/P625+Tandem+0481.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGpJtm7cKDXQILti4zkaexmQqQ93fSGGPPd6Qts3WRxmNpOlVj5bCCeFbxbRjKRSno65A1Sifm5vb170HfWe0Y5HdkXHGuy_cPzNDAjTRSNKV-pCVEEVRVqXjToBuLVI0o_k0LEw/s320/P625+Tandem+0481.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">T sleeps with new bandage, sans Elizabethan collar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>For this blessing, I am grateful.<br />
<br />
Amen.goseigirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03321570720289030822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9597326.post-23528612656468855452011-06-20T05:34:00.011-06:002011-06-25T14:27:12.879-06:00My favorite gardening companionDear God:<br />
<br />
Today, I am thankful for my favorite gardening companion.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpYO2_Lfo5kbSBh1YX-6KwofX1wxLkZ6PsqHvMEwQfxf9XQoMn7urGkIEQTamY7l3L3ev4eG6zyH5zjuB_F-8ujkSOu34PlH9rBmsGqyLlUMuCNNmUOVqKMUNf6ZxeTy1VvB-LVA/s1600/P612+tandem1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpYO2_Lfo5kbSBh1YX-6KwofX1wxLkZ6PsqHvMEwQfxf9XQoMn7urGkIEQTamY7l3L3ev4eG6zyH5zjuB_F-8ujkSOu34PlH9rBmsGqyLlUMuCNNmUOVqKMUNf6ZxeTy1VvB-LVA/s320/P612+tandem1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">T at 14.5 years</td></tr>
</tbody></table>On his best days, T hobbles around the backyard, favoring his right hind leg. His arthritic hips hinder his mobility. He no longer races along the fence line or fetches a favorite toy or reacts to a teasing squirrel. Not that he doesn't want to. He just can't, and he knows it.<br />
<br />
While I tend my gardens, he no longer follows me around the yard. Instead, he stands on the patio and watches from afar. More like the lord of the manor than my supervisor. <br />
<br />
T turned 14.5 years old on Saturday. Elderly by Labrador Retriever and human standards. he still walks with S twice a day - usually two very slow laps around the park with an occasional journey along the trail, alley or main road. T has walked around that darn park tens of thousands of times.<br />
<br />
The owner of the pet food store always reminds me that T's longevity is a testament to our love for him. Only the best for T, I always say. The best food, the purest water, the finest treats, the softest blankets, the most hugs.<br />
<br />
T's longevity also means that he is susceptible to old age infirmities. Last week, at his annual exam, we learned that the "cyst" on his foreleg is a sarcoma. The "veg" (our term for veterinarian) assured us that T is strong enough for surgery, so we scheduled the procedure for this Wednesday, June 22. If you like or even love T, please pray for him, the surgical team and us.<br />
<br />
For this very special blessing, I am grateful.<br />
<br />
Amen.goseigirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03321570720289030822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9597326.post-63530039920296562812011-06-19T04:22:00.001-06:002011-06-19T16:21:07.191-06:00My dadDear God:<br />
<br />
Today, I am thankful for my dad.<br />
<br />
<i>To live in hearts we leave behind</i><br />
<i>Is not to die.</i><br />
~Thomas Cambell, <i>Hallowed Ground</i><br />
<br />
<br />
My second Father's Day without Dad. Last year's remembrance was especially difficult - he died on May 15 so my grief was fresh and familiar.<br />
<br />
This year, I'm doing better. I think about him daily - good thoughts - especially while I'm tending my gardens. The special place in my heart reserved just for Dad-things, however, is still quiet and sad, awaiting just one more happy memory.<br />
<br />
Happy Father's Day, Dad. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPXtJexN7ZVczDzuFrSDpdnqC4EZ2Om4Pvf7S8Qh37EC69RaB_8NXbTI78jZkZv-yq0ahaNCMh1_LLD8U4_IWK9MH12GMkcFKrdPKKUL1hOp5W9VQETJyisxsHsFcICuLHMA_lvw/s1600/P618+liatris+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPXtJexN7ZVczDzuFrSDpdnqC4EZ2Om4Pvf7S8Qh37EC69RaB_8NXbTI78jZkZv-yq0ahaNCMh1_LLD8U4_IWK9MH12GMkcFKrdPKKUL1hOp5W9VQETJyisxsHsFcICuLHMA_lvw/s320/P618+liatris+2.JPG" width="197" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Liatris in full bloom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>For this blessing, I am thankful.<br />
<br />
Amen.goseigirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03321570720289030822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9597326.post-38316486323002917392011-06-13T17:20:00.004-06:002011-06-13T17:20:00.775-06:00A blooming garden<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Dear God:<br />
<br />
Today, I am thankful for a blooming garden.<br />
<br />
Surprise!<br />
<br />
My gardens are abloom. Nearly all the perennials survived our cold, very arid winter.<br />
<br />
I'm not sure my dad would have enjoyed my eclectic, drought tolerant garden. <br />
<br />
My friend, Elsie, however, would have been delighted.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3tFhUsot5Z2NM1zoyz0qe2mpRnsaVPYOwLqvoS9_NwnDCdI5IdCIEUjIfSSwSAaHuEuK4wurisjeSQ0R0ikiZxA-7iEgp3lKRUPkbenXKUceM1t2sUOJUmWqJaLHn1Q_hv6RBjg/s1600/P612+edible+garden+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3tFhUsot5Z2NM1zoyz0qe2mpRnsaVPYOwLqvoS9_NwnDCdI5IdCIEUjIfSSwSAaHuEuK4wurisjeSQ0R0ikiZxA-7iEgp3lKRUPkbenXKUceM1t2sUOJUmWqJaLHn1Q_hv6RBjg/s320/P612+edible+garden+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Edible & Perennial Garden</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaPUil1nLUEKepbxL7EUil-EL072oCFgFFw5-lgvW7rE8rG3bveIA02r314kmChoyRb8b8dFikdGj2-P09b0RIUN6tJmk7CYF-tqMZR9lY0WYRF_5tuOpLVEy7Mr9aAF4FpxRItg/s1600/P612+north+garden+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaPUil1nLUEKepbxL7EUil-EL072oCFgFFw5-lgvW7rE8rG3bveIA02r314kmChoyRb8b8dFikdGj2-P09b0RIUN6tJmk7CYF-tqMZR9lY0WYRF_5tuOpLVEy7Mr9aAF4FpxRItg/s320/P612+north+garden+1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">North Garden</td></tr>
</tbody></table> <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPE63S6IfJ3tEAILPjiLrX7rOt8-SR8BDj9jwOXCwZeY1giIFgms3TrYW4kqCyra3wRlLX615bVtFliLKtKV7q_Lh0RpidlFFW9YnKRF3g8iHCkuylYq2qCSdxWUFzxNdwZsZbJA/s1600/P612+north+garden+shade2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPE63S6IfJ3tEAILPjiLrX7rOt8-SR8BDj9jwOXCwZeY1giIFgms3TrYW4kqCyra3wRlLX615bVtFliLKtKV7q_Lh0RpidlFFW9YnKRF3g8iHCkuylYq2qCSdxWUFzxNdwZsZbJA/s320/P612+north+garden+shade2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">North Garden - shady section near house</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnnPM_WdyP6QAVDzjI39qa7qwqgEaFrIwPlSCrqMEt4DmrPUbOgjVG5Np4VrT_FI6Pay3wB8SZUuJ-3EAe9zKHGvolwA-QMN1iXjsSFnveEJtrcdu9wTDFe2fus803epBKNAzPuA/s1600/P612+north+garden+shade+fence.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnnPM_WdyP6QAVDzjI39qa7qwqgEaFrIwPlSCrqMEt4DmrPUbOgjVG5Np4VrT_FI6Pay3wB8SZUuJ-3EAe9zKHGvolwA-QMN1iXjsSFnveEJtrcdu9wTDFe2fus803epBKNAzPuA/s320/P612+north+garden+shade+fence.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">North Garden - fence corner</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeOPVEV6jyFLl1ViNs-0nI9cOrQeh9GDPqc5AQ0Qtq7nj_QA8WfnjCT3_d9raBIsnHvf6uxi7R0kYkIoPW7eSqto3KslUbgwc_VLEeq5gNdSus_muHtRCvvRgWUdLdxWFeF7Ds7Q/s1600/P612+blue+flax1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeOPVEV6jyFLl1ViNs-0nI9cOrQeh9GDPqc5AQ0Qtq7nj_QA8WfnjCT3_d9raBIsnHvf6uxi7R0kYkIoPW7eSqto3KslUbgwc_VLEeq5gNdSus_muHtRCvvRgWUdLdxWFeF7Ds7Q/s320/P612+blue+flax1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blue Flax</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXMoczguNLoDR2Y3p4W-nVBM-PEUN9O1H952PxmDWKvAiKAFAkFv_Ouf_zQyHJRQkRPB_0-l_rCmju0YGQV5sZ87hw-sSzSX-FTnWG9tCFju-FcJsUf3MuCZq0gqkfNh2zi1kMZg/s1600/P612+saponaria1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXMoczguNLoDR2Y3p4W-nVBM-PEUN9O1H952PxmDWKvAiKAFAkFv_Ouf_zQyHJRQkRPB_0-l_rCmju0YGQV5sZ87hw-sSzSX-FTnWG9tCFju-FcJsUf3MuCZq0gqkfNh2zi1kMZg/s320/P612+saponaria1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Saponaria</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2qa0AKp4CZLjf0qfs0Yw6q6GKqIpHusaq3NM3BGDIKiGYjJ1-CUszkwo3h43lLGEczANtPWntB6EajNeNCp5reL0xiYMfXQp9kDB_hDwwlV7q8HmP-E5cVn5aD0FClvQOJEV_3A/s1600/P612+comfrey+blossoms2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2qa0AKp4CZLjf0qfs0Yw6q6GKqIpHusaq3NM3BGDIKiGYjJ1-CUszkwo3h43lLGEczANtPWntB6EajNeNCp5reL0xiYMfXQp9kDB_hDwwlV7q8HmP-E5cVn5aD0FClvQOJEV_3A/s320/P612+comfrey+blossoms2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Comfrey</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFSnbSN1UBInmMt5A2e6sxmGB_ZIijT_vV7h8GAK6QKDXfkd83-MvQpkSXoj8g9OtRWPwt1gu_SUbyaVyOhaKH11032osqL7kc62A2iDzqOY4eOYf9VuMHI0UxzPo1Wlw3FCe58A/s1600/P612+white+columbine1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFSnbSN1UBInmMt5A2e6sxmGB_ZIijT_vV7h8GAK6QKDXfkd83-MvQpkSXoj8g9OtRWPwt1gu_SUbyaVyOhaKH11032osqL7kc62A2iDzqOY4eOYf9VuMHI0UxzPo1Wlw3FCe58A/s320/P612+white+columbine1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Columbine - white</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzELeI3MvYr0Tzf1Hik41T5fgvp3upjIncm13GgbiZbynjT-kEc74IWdOpsd_Ssdm9p-c_3C4TUfISbqB2l6dAWtY2W7ETaJw_Dy384MFHQZ5ky_Ih63IUK75YEZlj0dwA97J2Yw/s1600/P612+verbena2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzELeI3MvYr0Tzf1Hik41T5fgvp3upjIncm13GgbiZbynjT-kEc74IWdOpsd_Ssdm9p-c_3C4TUfISbqB2l6dAWtY2W7ETaJw_Dy384MFHQZ5ky_Ih63IUK75YEZlj0dwA97J2Yw/s320/P612+verbena2.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Verbena</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEcqT5dzZPMZ6th8BkGUIwgbfQPb5Drr7RSzoRpeDABj06ChhMsgQOkfZfzjPDb-8tZsAlFBQQEWBMPpMuq00EGIRq1tL010bysxJlCgzfk3MdWrKlYCn9foEH0e7DuLFuu8qjoQ/s1600/P612+snow+in+summer1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEcqT5dzZPMZ6th8BkGUIwgbfQPb5Drr7RSzoRpeDABj06ChhMsgQOkfZfzjPDb-8tZsAlFBQQEWBMPpMuq00EGIRq1tL010bysxJlCgzfk3MdWrKlYCn9foEH0e7DuLFuu8qjoQ/s320/P612+snow+in+summer1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snow in Summer</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_5d7Stmbf940o9FGZMKLMtBXiGfykEx-3X41WzYRJCzzO3inDi8B5tM0aOyyu0zctbeLYZjrSmjCWqtWCp3d8fe2VpOTzMuCbu0ZRMN0hVa8gvdUfWPIcFq-IxY6GgYEtW_IMvA/s1600/P612+lilac2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_5d7Stmbf940o9FGZMKLMtBXiGfykEx-3X41WzYRJCzzO3inDi8B5tM0aOyyu0zctbeLYZjrSmjCWqtWCp3d8fe2VpOTzMuCbu0ZRMN0hVa8gvdUfWPIcFq-IxY6GgYEtW_IMvA/s320/P612+lilac2.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lilac</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxQMWpfP74vYLKujiL64kuJnFqQfoXfxffMgIFWc0VHfeUtfYW835lozn3e3Bk-bzACuKfnCTngVCOYoXp2B8RyMhXrZpP3KyYz_iFHWt1Li7Z9ERp_kWQ4i9myoHuq2JdeqQf5g/s1600/P612+mat+daisies+-+buds+closed.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxQMWpfP74vYLKujiL64kuJnFqQfoXfxffMgIFWc0VHfeUtfYW835lozn3e3Bk-bzACuKfnCTngVCOYoXp2B8RyMhXrZpP3KyYz_iFHWt1Li7Z9ERp_kWQ4i9myoHuq2JdeqQf5g/s320/P612+mat+daisies+-+buds+closed.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mat Daisies (closed buds)</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<a class="cssButton" href="javascript:void(0)" id="previewButton" onclick="void(0);" target=""></a><br />
<div class="cssButtonOuter"><div class="cssButtonMiddle"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidEn0Gr_iwAA2ooYkQChonf76T1uklhz_lVLV22DK__MovOVHegyr0XN-B_rM3fmS05qDvy-V6JVI0LR-sCvH7KXpkvMvIDrmLJNoMi1o5zIBpew8iJVpxiRH5mdpKAOZpZ9GR8g/s1600/P612+flower2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidEn0Gr_iwAA2ooYkQChonf76T1uklhz_lVLV22DK__MovOVHegyr0XN-B_rM3fmS05qDvy-V6JVI0LR-sCvH7KXpkvMvIDrmLJNoMi1o5zIBpew8iJVpxiRH5mdpKAOZpZ9GR8g/s320/P612+flower2.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Liatris</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table></div></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
For this blessing, I am grateful.<br />
<br />
Amen.goseigirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03321570720289030822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9597326.post-27597520252468541172011-06-04T17:03:00.007-06:002011-06-05T17:24:52.950-06:00A really good saleDear God:<br />
<br />
Today, I am thankful for a really good sale.<br />
<br />
As you may know, I am trying to "fast" clothes buying this year. So far, in 2011, I have spent less than $25 on clothes (an all-time low for me).<br />
<br />
Today, however, I stopped by one of my favorite thrift/consignment stores where the selection in small and extra-small sizes is usually quite good. I ended up buying a few things at bargain prices: <br />
<ul><li>1 Banana Republic long sleeve cotton blouse $.75</li>
<li>1 pair of new Worthington grey trousers for work $2.00</li>
<li>1 pair of new Fabrizio Gianni black stretch capris $1.37</li>
<li>1 Sara Arizona black rayon cardigan $2.00</li>
<li>1 black camisole - $.75</li>
</ul>Now I have to get rid of 5 items from my closet. You know the rule: buy one item, give one away.<br />
<br />
For this blessing, I am grateful.<br />
<br />
Amen.goseigirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03321570720289030822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9597326.post-3574077600680063592011-06-03T23:31:00.001-06:002011-06-04T00:41:31.869-06:00A good night's sleepDear God:<br />
<br />
Today, I am thankful for a good night's sleep.<br />
<br />
Most days, I operate in sleep-deficit mode.<br />
<br />
Occasionally, I get a good night's sleep. I define this rare phenomenon as follows: duration exceeds 5 hours of uninterrupted slumber; I wake up naturally.<br />
<br />
Perhaps tonight is the night. <br />
<br />
For this blessing, I am grateful.<br />
<br />
Amen.goseigirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03321570720289030822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9597326.post-25683667019994040992011-06-02T22:42:00.001-06:002011-06-02T22:42:00.538-06:00Elsie, 1933-2011Dear God:<br />
<br />
Today, I am thankful for Elsie, 1933-2011.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh5NYgR0HSuQ2JJAT-gIMyx1fzkwlz8VEYW9Nqyb_fvWYHYUxdeSUHMTKMtnKOxENv7fRtjzo6oLh10yRvfaG746TA1AZ0zCrFTJGcxQVpfT-DubkkqGO0hImt9HQHTK0ezhxWmQ/s1600/P530columbine1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh5NYgR0HSuQ2JJAT-gIMyx1fzkwlz8VEYW9Nqyb_fvWYHYUxdeSUHMTKMtnKOxENv7fRtjzo6oLh10yRvfaG746TA1AZ0zCrFTJGcxQVpfT-DubkkqGO0hImt9HQHTK0ezhxWmQ/s320/P530columbine1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <i> From an aunt, long ago: </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"Death has come for me many times </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>but finds me always in my lovely garden </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>and leaves me there, I think, </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>as an excuse to return."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">~Robert Brault</div><br />
<i>Elsie </i>- writer, teacher, philosopher, historian and gardener extraordinaire - died unexpectedly on May 15. The annual Horticultural Art Society plant sale for which Elsie managed several key functions, also ended that afternoon. She wasn't there, however. The June HAS newsletter reported that she did not feel well on Saturday and left the sale early to go home and rest. She died the next day. <br />
<br />
I didn't volunteer for the plant sale this year, although Elsie called and asked me to do so. I just didn't have the time or energy for this extracurricular activity. I regret that I did not return her call. <br />
<br />
Elsie's death caught me completely by surprise. I missed the announcement, missed her funeral, missed saying good-bye. I know the plant sale volunteers will miss her at this year's celebration picnic. Picnic early birds could enjoy a small glass of her fresh strawberry or peach daiquiri, spiked, of course, with a splash of white rum.<br />
<br />
Elsie encouraged me to be adventurous with my plant selections and inspired my small but interesting perennial edible garden. She was a tireless and generous resource for horticultural information. Now, we will no longer be able to say, "Ask Elsie." <br />
<br />
My dad died last year on May 15. Now, sadly, Elsie's name joins his on my calendar. <br />
<br />
For this blessing, I am grateful.<br />
<br />
Amen.goseigirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03321570720289030822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9597326.post-83988739819324295692011-06-01T19:30:00.019-06:002011-06-01T19:30:00.093-06:00Warm dirtDear God:<br />
<br />
Today, I am thankful for warm dirt.<br />
<br />
Friends in San Juan Capistrano are already enjoying a bountiful harvest of homegrown tomatoes. To date, I haven't planted a single vegetable which means I am way behind in Southern California time but right on time in Colorado Springs.<br />
<br />
I bought one cherry tomato plant. That's it for this year - I promise. I don't know when I'll plant it. The Master Gardener at the nursery reminded me not to do so until the nighttime temperature is consistently above 40 degrees. Tomatoes need warm dirt. At nearly 7,000 feet in altitude, we're not quite there. Maybe in a week, or two I'll have warm dirt. If not, I will forget about tomatoes this year and indulge in organics and heirlooms at the Farmer's Market - much easier but less fun.<br />
<br />
Next weekend, I will finally get to plant eggplant and my all-time favorite Swiss Chard in the garden plot. In pots, I will transplant Globe basil and hot peppers. I now wish I had bought the beets - love the greens in salad. I will look for more Japanese eggplant, hot peppers and herbs, and <i>maybe </i>one zucchini. <br />
<br />
And, in case you're wondering, here's what's already growing in my edible garden:<br />
<br />
<b>Nearly ready for harvesting:</b><br />
<ul><li>Rhubarb</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJYsAMCSV1DBCqHKGR4A60byOd0B9gcHnjLLBeG_i_qXoYy5kmtgBIla0v_b5mmP4UQyzAwHKZAXtofAqt8UcNHTPOCwhtQMHnZGbQanK-mBrLmu1dQ8JYsgoXFbteFDsar4Ysdg/s1600/P530+rhubarb.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJYsAMCSV1DBCqHKGR4A60byOd0B9gcHnjLLBeG_i_qXoYy5kmtgBIla0v_b5mmP4UQyzAwHKZAXtofAqt8UcNHTPOCwhtQMHnZGbQanK-mBrLmu1dQ8JYsgoXFbteFDsar4Ysdg/s320/P530+rhubarb.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<b>Already harvesting:</b><br />
<ul><li>Chives</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3BQs9HncX0YvW5NAni2Lb955Rx6R3Xadmb8Whd3ta01LDFbcsG4WP4F-qtvPgMKkXkk_b4IX57ITK9oPAUaVSyFmJuOvUhzKgcV3ARny5cYKySjO2MeEWihby-ZQ6LKAW0B0mpA/s1600/P530chives.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3BQs9HncX0YvW5NAni2Lb955Rx6R3Xadmb8Whd3ta01LDFbcsG4WP4F-qtvPgMKkXkk_b4IX57ITK9oPAUaVSyFmJuOvUhzKgcV3ARny5cYKySjO2MeEWihby-ZQ6LKAW0B0mpA/s320/P530chives.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><ul><li> Tarragon - my "secret" ingredient in pasta sauces, delicious raw in salads</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCzOxyEvnxFmWzKTmAwFqJg6adQ5KplpBVNRgXnTCfBPMAcQ1KhqD-XrTIWvNxcD-bmkx3W5liDX4ZSKx_GA9eQlqFAi1nz0HmDmCTuJGfA5KxnLHcbLDQp3ftX_LqUnTkWANVSg/s1600/P530tarragon.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCzOxyEvnxFmWzKTmAwFqJg6adQ5KplpBVNRgXnTCfBPMAcQ1KhqD-XrTIWvNxcD-bmkx3W5liDX4ZSKx_GA9eQlqFAi1nz0HmDmCTuJGfA5KxnLHcbLDQp3ftX_LqUnTkWANVSg/s320/P530tarragon.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<ul><li>Sage</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNc36da36cWaNKNYLp9ZDtEG3y5QIjyRp1ocbbsaKlSDLrTqgf43OdefcVl2OLBT7q1mb1td9bQdVxXvJ8J-o5iXAUZYhy-3ESTfLOx6xOkWGdP3wEebnco8SMaXqk5IaxSOwuaw/s1600/P530sage.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNc36da36cWaNKNYLp9ZDtEG3y5QIjyRp1ocbbsaKlSDLrTqgf43OdefcVl2OLBT7q1mb1td9bQdVxXvJ8J-o5iXAUZYhy-3ESTfLOx6xOkWGdP3wEebnco8SMaXqk5IaxSOwuaw/s320/P530sage.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><ul><li>Lovage (has a mild celery taste - easy to grow - hosts swallowtail larvae)</li>
<li>Mint (for homemade Mojitos)</li>
<li>Thyme</li>
<li>Rosemary - grown in pots, over-wintered indoors</li>
<li>Oregano - grown in a pot, over-wintered indoors</li>
</ul><br />
<b>Other:</b><br />
<ul><li> Jerusalem artichokes - perennials, have never harvested (keep forgetting - don't ask why)</li>
<li>Shallots - forgot to harvest last two years; planted more this year</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYmDv95BnrN8tcVXZqq4BH4GZHIC5WiQivpWBBLZKNFvKMID-WYy9T1dm_1Lp__-HHitjg8F7E3sj-6bWrXoJ_I7FTYL3P8ApocznUyfyfKFrn5Q5kjRiNtlIF_tzqmgZThtZ_1g/s1600/P530shallots.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYmDv95BnrN8tcVXZqq4BH4GZHIC5WiQivpWBBLZKNFvKMID-WYy9T1dm_1Lp__-HHitjg8F7E3sj-6bWrXoJ_I7FTYL3P8ApocznUyfyfKFrn5Q5kjRiNtlIF_tzqmgZThtZ_1g/s320/P530shallots.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
For these blessings, I am grateful.<br />
<br />
Amen.goseigirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03321570720289030822noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9597326.post-43429419861861522572011-05-31T20:40:00.000-06:002011-05-31T20:40:07.573-06:00The Finch Family - 2011Dear God:<br />
<br />
Today, I am thankful for the Finch Family - 2011.<br />
<br />
<i>The year's at the spring</i><br />
<i>And day's at the morn;</i><br />
<i>Morning's at seven;</i><br />
<i>The hillside's dew-pearled;</i><br />
<i>The lark's on the wing;</i><br />
<i>The snail's on the thorn;</i><br />
<i>God's in His heaven - </i><br />
<i>All's right with the world!</i><br />
~Robert Browning<br />
<br />
It's been a few years since S and I hosted avian tenants who successfully raised a family.<br />
<br />
Several weeks ago, a young Finch couple built its nest in the Christmas wreath that hangs on our front door - a near-perfect spot to raise a family. The tiny mother laid her eggs, then hunkered down, enduring a few weeks of unseasonably cold, wet weather.<br />
<br />
As is our practice, once a bird couple builds its nest in the wreath, neither S nor I use the front door. T did not understand, at first, but soon mastered the routine. The "new" way to the front yard, neighborhood and park is through the garage. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfjR-hyzDCv61VKRk_ubsV7kDGroxVXQMdcpEtVxZJMTZEuPdtF3kNPHV5CrWVUd2qMykb1jKJ8GT9wvoxqrb9jeajippM4zDgJH6iyvq-9b67FrC9gBJGHZX9IlmjDiJaN0PkYA/s1600/P53011birds2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfjR-hyzDCv61VKRk_ubsV7kDGroxVXQMdcpEtVxZJMTZEuPdtF3kNPHV5CrWVUd2qMykb1jKJ8GT9wvoxqrb9jeajippM4zDgJH6iyvq-9b67FrC9gBJGHZX9IlmjDiJaN0PkYA/s320/P53011birds2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The eggs hatched about 2.5 weeks ago. Last week, the babies were downy balls with no discernible features. Today, the fledglings have real feathers and adorable faces. The one in front seems to be scowling at me - didn't want a nosy landlord to take its picture. <br />
<br />
For this blessing, I am grateful.<br />
<br />
Amen.goseigirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03321570720289030822noreply@blogger.com0