Twice this week I have been reminded about gardens, farmers’ markets and community. I am reading the book, Home Fires, by Julie Summers. Summers has researched and described the work of the Women’s Institute during World War II. Women in villages and towns throughout England formed groups to take care…
He made the moon to mark the seasons; the sun knows its time for setting. Psalm 104:19 The weather has warmed and the trees are in blossom. The robins and cardinals visit my yard, while the rabbits munch on grass. The squirrels are busy doing acrobatic exercises in the trees and on…
Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward. Psalm 127:3 Recently my husband and I went on a trip to Florida with our daughter’s family. It was lovely to see spring unfolding as we drove south. The azalea bushes were full of blossoms. We…
During a visit to New Mexico our son suggested that we enjoy a hike at place not far from their home while he and his wife were at work. Carlito Springs Nature Center is just 21 miles southeast of Albuquerque. On a sunny day, blue sky with a few puffy…
We have the blessings of nature around us and we have the prayers of faithful people in the Bible.
Recently my husband and I made a trip to Upper Michigan with my sister and her cat. The cat traveled with us reluctantly. Oh, she settled down in the car when we were on our way. It was getting her into the car that was a problem. This cat is…
The Wichita Botanical Garden is family oriented. The great variety of flowers, herbs and trees delight the eyes. And at intervals there is a surprise for children (and adults). Huge lego animals appear throughout the gardens. The dog pictured above had a sign that explained dogs are dichromatic (two kinds…
At the end of July and the beginning of August the thimbleberries ripen in Upper Michigan. Some years I am able to be there to pick the wild berries. But not this year. Instead, I have my memories. Ten years ago I wrote: Thimbleberries grow wild in Upper Michigan. I…
My freezer is full to capacity. The cherries, currants, gooseberries and raspberries have been abundant this year. The raspberry bushes are still producing berries—I have been picking every day for the past week and shared some with my neighbor. A couple days ago I had a surprising encounter among the…
Raspberries and blueberries are in season. The raspberries in my yard have abundant berries. They are so good with ice cream! They are also good with a Finnish oven pancake (Pannukakku). Here is a recipe for this slightly sweetened pancake. Ingredients: Preheat oven to 400°. Beat eggs in a large…